Author: admin

2025-05-12T08:01:00

(BPT) – Looking for ways to make the most of your time outdoors this summer? Grab your crew and go boating! Being on the water is one of the best ways to disconnect from distractions on land, allowing you to relax and recharge in nature. Not only is there a scientific connection between boating and happiness — the sight and sound of water promotes wellness by increasing serotonin, lowering cortisol and reducing stress — but boating is also a fun way to spend time with loved ones and meet new people within the boating community. There are plenty of ways to get on the water whether you rent, charter, share, join a boat club or own a boat.

Remember, boating should be enjoyable, not intimidating. Before stepping on board or taking the helm, brush up on your nautical know-how to boost your confidence and create a safer environment, allowing for a pleasant, stress-free day on the water for everyone involved.

“There’s nothing like spending a day on the water — where freedom meets fresh air, stress melts away and lasting memories are made with your favorite people,” said Ellen Bradley, senior vice president of Discover Boating. “Whether you’re new to boating, a seasoned captain or a passenger along for the ride, it’s always smart to brush up on the rules of the water. Discover Boating makes it easy with expert tips and safety resources right at your fingertips.”

Discover Boating is a one-stop destination for all things boating, from safety and education articles, maintenance checklists and boating destinations, to finding your dream boat, locating verified dealerships in your area and more.

Below are five tips from Discover Boating to improve your boating knowledge to ensure the best possible experience on your next boating adventure.

Learn boating safety essentials. View Discover Boating’s new video series in collaboration with Progressive Insurance^® for expert tips ranging from preparing your boat for the season to trailering, boating with kids and furry friends and more. If you plan on buying a boat or you are a new boat owner, consider getting boat insurance for an added layer of security and protection.

Take a boating course. Sign up for a boating lesson to hone your powerboating, sailing or watersports skills by mastering the basics while having fun along the way. On-water training courses, watersports camps, youth boating programs and more are offered across the country.

Visit a boat show. Boat shows are an ideal place to immerse yourself in the boating lifestyle and provide a unique opportunity to meet face-to-face with — and shop — a variety of boat dealers and marine product companies all under one roof. Most boat shows also offer hands-on demonstrations and educational opportunities for boaters of all experience levels. Find a boat show in your area.

Look for the seal of approval. When shopping for a boat, whether at a boat show, online or at a dealership, check to make sure it is NMMA Certified. NMMA Certified boat and trailer manufacturers have been independently inspected to ensure they meet strict industry standards for safety and construction, as well as all federal regulations. Look for the NMMA Certified sticker near the helm of a boat.

Maintenance matters. Similar to cars, there are a few areas that require regular maintenance by the owner, and a few areas that require maintenance at routine intervals, which most leave to the professionals. Prepare a boat maintenance checklist that covers everything from engine needs to cleaning to electrical systems to ensure your boat has a long lifespan.

Visit DiscoverBoating.com for safety tips, boat shopping tools, easy ways to get on the water and more. Be sure to tag @DiscoverBoating and use #SeeYouOutHere on social media to share your next boating adventure.

2025-05-12T09:01:00

(BPT) – Read on for the ultimate checklist for students heading off to college and their families, including graduation celebrations, paperwork, moving and paying for school. Visit CollegeAve.com for more information.

2025-05-09T11:31:00

(BPT) – Mother’s Day is this Sunday, May 11, and if you’re still hunting for the perfect last-minute gift, consider something practical that shows you care.

Mercury Insurance has curated nine thoughtful, budget-friendly auto accessories under $50 — each available online and designed to bring safety, comfort and convenience every time Mom hits the road.

Universal Car Headrest Hooks – $7.98
A simple way to keep purses, grocery bags and coats off the floor, these durable headrest hooks install in seconds. They help Mom stay organized and clutter-free, especially on busy days.

Papillon Shiatsu Back and Neck Massager with Heat – $39.99
Give Mom the gift of relaxation with this heated massager that targets back, neck and shoulder tension. Compact enough for use at home, in the office or in the car for long drives.

Car Backseat Organizer with Foldable Table Tray – $28.99
This sleek PU leather backseat organizer keeps essentials at hand and includes a foldable tray table for snacks, work or entertainment. Perfect for moms juggling errands, road trips and family outings.

Baby Car Mirror with HD Night Vision – $38.99
Keep Mom’s mind at ease with this baby car monitor that offers a crystal-clear view day or night. Ideal for parents of little ones, it makes rear-facing car seats safer and more reassuring.

Viewsun 17-Piece Pink Car Cleaning Kit – $45.99
For the mom who loves a clean ride, this fun pink cleaning kit has everything she needs to keep her car sparkling. It includes a handheld vacuum, brushes, cleaning gel and more.

Dual Dash Cam with 2.5K Front + 1080P Rear Recording – $49.99
This dual dash cam provides high-resolution video from both the front and rear, plus Wi-Fi, night vision and a parking mode. A smart safety upgrade for moms who spend a lot of time behind the wheel.

VARSK 4-in-1 Car Vacuum & Tire Inflator – $42.99
A handy gadget that combines a high-power car vacuum with a digital tire inflator, perfect for emergencies or everyday use. Comes in a variety of colors.

NBTEPEM 27-Piece Pink Bling Car Accessory Set – $34.99
Make Mom’s car sparkle with this 27-piece bling set, including a steering wheel cover, phone holder, coasters and license plate frame. A fun way to add glam and personality to her daily drive.

KeepGoing Travel First Aid Kit – $21.99
This compact first aid kit is perfect for keeping in the car, diaper bag or purse, offering peace of mind on every outing. With 130 pieces, it’s TSA-approved and ready for any minor emergency.

“When looking for a special gift for mom, automotive accessories are always a good choice,” said Justin Yoshizawa, Director, Product Management, State for Mercury Insurance. “These gifts help her arrive safely and in style.”

Many of these automotive accessories not only make great gifts for Mom, but they may also qualify for auto insurance discounts — check with your Mercury agent to learn more.

2025-05-08T08:01:00

(BPT) – In the relentless battle against Alzheimer’s disease, researchers are looking closely at a lab-made version of thiamine (also known as vitamin B1). This nutrient, crucial for brain function and energy production, is now in the spotlight for its potential role in combating cognitive decline.

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive disease that causes problems with memory, thinking and behavior that affects nearly seven million individuals in the U.S., and that number is expected to reach 13 million by 2050.[1] The good news is the Alzheimer’s Association says this is a time of great promise in Alzheimer’s research with increased government and philanthropic funding and a growing community of scientists — all of which are instrumental to finding new treatments to stop, slow and prevent Alzheimer’s disease.[2]

Take Carole, wife and mother of two. “I have been living with Alzheimer’s disease for three years and while the disease has taken its toll on me, it has really impacted my whole family. I was always the caretaker in our house, but my husband has had to step into that role now. He and my children have become my support system and I know it’s not easy for them either. I am hopeful that researchers can discover more and better new treatments for people with the disease.”

New Research in the Fight Against Alzheimer’s Disease

In an effort to alleviate the burden of Alzheimer’s disease, researchers have long sought new ways to treat and prevent the devastating disease. Recently, their attention has turned to thiamine, a nutrient with extraordinary potential. The brain tissue of people with Alzheimer’s disease shows that they have a thiamine deficiency, even though they may have a sufficient supply of thiamine in their blood. This is likely due to a diminished ability to deliver thiamine to their brain. A lack of thiamine in the brain compromises memory and cognition.

Scientists are cautiously optimistic that boosting thiamine levels could hold the key to slowing the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. By significantly increasing the amount of thiamine in the bloodstream, they hope to provide a much-needed boost to brain function and memory retention. Furthermore, they believe that benfotiamine could work in combination with other existing treatments to offer additional benefits beyond what current therapies can achieve.

While the idea of a readily available intervention that helps slow or stop Alzheimer’s disease cognitive decline is appealing, more research is needed to establish the link between thiamine and Alzheimer’s disease. A new clinical trial, funded by the National Institute of Aging at the National Institutes of Health, is seeking to shed light on this potential connection. This trial will focus on benfotiamine, a synthetic form of thiamine specifically developed to enhance its absorption by the brain.

For Carole, and countless others like her, this trial represents hope in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease. The possibility of a potential treatment is a ray of light in an otherwise difficult landscape.

Impact of Alzheimer’s on Different Populations

Hispanic and Black communities bear a disproportionate burden of the disease. In fact, studies have shown that older Black Americans are twice as likely to develop Alzheimer’s compared to older non-Hispanic White Americans,[3] while older Hispanic Americans are one and a half times more likely.[4] In addition, there is growing scientific evidence that biomarkers of Alzheimer’s disease are not the same across populations.[5]

In light of these disparities, it is imperative that research into potential treatments like benfotiamine considers the diverse experiences of those affected by Alzheimer’s disease. “By including all populations in clinical trials to meet their specific needs, we can ensure that no one is left behind in the fight against this devastating disease,” said José Alejandro Luchsinger, M.D., MPH, Vice-Chair for Clinical and Epidemiologic Research at Columbia University and a lead investigator in the benfotiamine trial.

Participating in the Benfotiamine Trial

The benfotiamine trial (BenfoTeam Trial) needs people of every race and ethnicity to participate in the study to help find a treatment for Alzheimer’s disease that works for all. The clinical trial is taking place in approximately 40 clinical trial sites across the U.S. and enrolling people who are:

• Aged 50-89
• Experiencing mild memory concerns or previously diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment or mild Alzheimer’s disease
• Positive Alzheimer’s disease blood test
• Stable on current FDA-approved acetylcholinesterase inhibitors (with or without memantine) for at least three months prior to screening
• Living in the community (not in a long-term care nursing facility)
• Willing to participate in the BenfoTeam study for up to 18 months (plus screening)

To learn more about the study, visit BenfoTeam.org.

2025-05-08T08:01:00

(BPT) – Now that winter has officially ended, it’s time to get started on spring yardwork! As you start your to-do list, take stock of your current lawn equipment. You may find that you have old, worn-out tools gathering dust that require replacement before you can take on your lawn tasks.

Check out these four reasons why spring is the perfect time to replace or upgrade your outdoor power equipment and tools.

1. Shop the latest and greatest equipment

Many brands drop their latest tools and equipment in the spring, just in time for yard work. Whether you’re looking to add a new tool to your collection or replace worn-out equipment, spring is the perfect time to grab the latest innovations. This spring, ECHO Incorporated, a trusted leader in professional-grade outdoor power equipment, launched a variety of new tools suited for homeowners and professionals, including leaf blowers, string trimmers, mowers and more!

You may think it’s unnecessary to grab the latest tools when older models will do. However, newly launched outdoor power equipment and tools offer cutting-edge power and safety features that make yard work easier and can last a long time when properly maintained.

2. Get ready for what spring brings

Spring brings warmer weather and budding flowers, but it’s also known as storm season in many parts of the U.S. Any debris and fallen or broken branches in your yard can pose a hazard to your property. That’s why it’s critical to get your lawn tidy to help prevent any accidents and damage to your home, cars and, of course, yourself.

Using your new tools, get started on spring tasks as soon as possible. It’s the best and simplest way to protect your house and reduce the risk of damage and injury.

3. Spring sales make equipment purchases more affordable

Quality outdoor equipment and tools are an investment, but they’re well worth the price. You don’t have to break the bank to get quality tools. Many hardware stores offer spring discounts to make outdoor power equipment purchases more affordable.

Check out your local Home Depot, which has ongoing deals on outdoor power equipment products, including many from ECHO. You can also search for one of over 6,000 dealers in the ECHO network near you that offer spring discounts on these and other power equipment tools you’ll need to prep your lawn.

Not sure which tools are right for you? ECHO offers handy buying and maintenance guides that can help you make wise purchases this spring.

4. Spring yardwork sets the pace

Performing yard tasks in the spring helps your lawn wake up after a cold winter and builds the ideal environment for your yard to thrive throughout the year. To do so, you’ll need the right tools. Consider these four tasks and the recommended equipment to get the job done.

Prune the trees: Make sure to prune damaged and overgrown branches, especially those hanging near your car windows or roof.

To safely reach and prune tall branches, you’ll need a fixed-shaft pole saw. ECHO’s battery-powered pruner provides gas-like performance for up to 100 cuts and a 12-foot reach, so you can safely prune tree branches with both feet firmly planted on the ground.

After pruning, use a chainsaw to cut branches and logs into manageable sizes for easy removal and disposal. It’s also a good idea to have a handheld pruning saw to trim smaller limbs and take care of more precise tree pruning within arm’s reach.

Trim the hedges: If you want fuller and healthier hedges, trimming in spring is a must. Use a lightweight, powerful hedge trimmer to remove dead or overgrown branches and make room for new growth to flourish. ECHO’s version provides up to 88 minutes of run time, so you don’t have to worry about recharging as you shape the bushes.

Mow the grass: The first mow of the year is incredibly important to the long-term health of your lawn. A self-propelled lawn mower can quickly remove dead leaves and debris. The model from ECHO comes with an auto-switch dual-battery dock, so you’ll have plenty of juice to finish your weekly mow.

Edge the lawn: Keep your lawn tidy and boost your home’s curb appeal by edging the grass. After mowing, use a string trimmer to whack weeds and grass your mower can’t reach. Next, use an edger for professional-looking crisp lines.

Don’t wait

It’s go-time! Keep these tasks and recommendations in mind as you prepare your yard this spring. By getting the right equipment and taking care of these suggested spring tasks, you’ll be well on your way to a yard that will be the envy of the neighborhood.

2025-05-08T09:01:00

(BPT) – Forget the needles; a new wave of at-home skincare is empowering us to achieve remarkably smooth skin, and the buzz around the “Notox” movement advocating for injection-free alternatives for the same look is only getting louder. In a beauty landscape increasingly focused on proactive skin treatments, the desire for significant results without invasive procedures is undeniable. Enter RoC Skincare’s Derm Correxion Fill + Treat Serum, a product quickly gaining cult-favorite status for its promise of visible line-smoothing without a single injection.

This targeted serum, formulated with the expertise of both dermatologists and plastic surgeons, brings clinical-grade results right to your bathroom shelf — no office visit required. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Joshua Zeichner notes, “I’m always excited to find affordable and accessible skin solutions that truly deliver, which is why I often recommend RoC’s Derm Correxion Fill + Treat Serum to patients looking to address fine lines quickly.”

The clinical data speaks for itself — 97% of users observed a visible plumping and filling of fine lines and wrinkles within mere minutes. Yes, minutes. Plus, 2 out of 3 users reported they would skip injections and use the Fill + Treat Serum instead. This serum has definitely become a go-to product for those embracing the “Notox” philosophy.

So what really makes this product a game-changer? It starts with RoC’s patented Retinol, a powerhouse ingredient that accelerates skin cell turnover, visibly reducing fine lines. The serum also boasts Triple Hyaluronic Acid, which works to immediately hydrate and plump the skin, effectively filling those tell-tale wrinkles. Rounding out the formula is Swertiamarin, an ingredient that visibly smooths and restores the skin’s texture and appearance. And thanks to a sleek, precision applicator, you can directly target those areas where fine lines and wrinkles tend to appear.

Integrating Derm Correxion Fill + Treat Serum into your routine is easy; simply apply the product on clean skin, focusing on the areas of concern, and follow up with a hydrating moisturizer. With continued use, you may ditch the needles for good. Impressively, after just 4 weeks, 100% showed improvement in the appearance of hard-to-treat wrinkles, including crow’s feet, laugh lines, and those often-bothersome “11” lines between the brows.

The “Notox movement” signifies a shift toward high-performance, accessible, and decidedly less intimidating skincare solutions — and RoC’s Fill + Treat Serum is a prime example. Achieving visibly smoother, younger-looking skin without needles, all for under $30? It’s no surprise this serum has won several awards and found its place on the top shelves of beauty enthusiasts everywhere. Discover this product and explore the wider range of RoC Skincare products at Walmart.com. Your skin might just thank you for it.

2025-05-07T13:15:01

(BPT) – The number of business-savvy mothers blazing the trail as entrepreneurs is at a record high. “Mompreneurs” are transforming the business landscape, not just for themselves, but also for future generations. According to Wells Fargo, growth in the number of female business owners has outpaced the market in recent years, with women-owned companies representing 39% of all businesses.

What could be a driver of this shift? Legacy. One-third of female business owners surveyed in recent Kiddie Academy^® research cite their primary motivation for starting a business as a desire to leave a lasting impact for their children and grandchildren. For these women, entrepreneurship isn’t just a path to work-life balance — it’s an act of generational empowerment that’s essential to their communities.

Mompreneurs fill unique gaps in the market because they often start businesses based on personal experiences. This results in the creation of products and services that effectively solve problems for families and local communities. They’re showing their children what’s possible when you take a personal passion or value and turn it into a business.

According to the same Kiddie Academy survey, 90% of respondents believe it’s important for children to see more female business owners in their communities. Female representation can change what children believe is achievable as they form ideas about their own potential.

Children raised in “mompreneurial” households grow up with firsthand exposure to the highs and lows of business, the dedication it takes to launch and grow an idea and the courage it takes to follow one’s dreams. For daughters, it can plant the seeds of self-confidence. For sons, it can shape respect for women as leaders and equals in the workforce.

“I know that when my children see me going to work each day, I’m making a profound impact on their perception of women business owners,” said Emily Zaghi, franchise owner of three Kiddie Academy locations in New York and mother of three young children. “Beyond the legacy I’m building for my family, I also have so much more freedom to be part of my children’s lives.”

Nearly 70% of mothers say flexibility to spend more time with family is a major reason for starting their business, according to Wells Fargo. With that, mompreneurs have created support ecosystems for themselves and each other, redefining what work-life balance looks like. More and more, moms are designing businesses that prioritize flexibility and purpose.

When a mother becomes an entrepreneur, she’s not just building a business, she’s building a legacy — the ripple effects of which can last for generations.