Posted on

Building a dock? 5 factors to consider

2025-04-17T12:01:00

(BPT) – If you own a home by the water, you understand that a dock is much more than a place to park a boat. It’s a sundeck, a diving platform, a fishing perch and a year-round spot for stargazing and enjoying sunsets. Choosing the right materials to use when building a dock can make all the difference in its appearance, comfort and longevity. Here are five things to consider:

Submersible: Docks are constantly exposed to water and fluctuating weather conditions. Choosing a material that resists rotting and warping is crucial. Performance-Engineered™ Trex® composite decking is marine-grade and 100% submerged, making it an ideal choice for salt and freshwater environments.

null

Heat mitigation: On sunny days, a dock’s surface can become hot underfoot — no matter what material is used. For optimal comfort, look for decking made with SunComfortable™ heat-mitigating technology. Engineered into the shell of Trex deck boards, this advanced formulation absorbs less heat than composites without heat-mitigating properties, keeping the surface cooler* in peak heat seasons.

null

Color: Whether you want your dock to stand out or blend in seamlessly with the natural surroundings, there’s a decking shade for every preference and setting. Compared to wood and PVC, composite decking offers a greater range of color options for incredible design flexibility.

null

Railing: Adding railing to a dock enhances stability and style. Layer on convenience by installing a multi-functional drink railing. This clever design uses a deck board attached to the top rail to create a flat surface for holding snacks and beverages while you’re taking in the sunset or welcoming the crew back from a day on the water.

null

Easy maintenance: To maximize leisure time, opt for durable products that withstand the harsh elements with minimal upkeep. Metal and composite railings are well-suited for use near water. Hassle-free composite decking won’t splinter or rot and never needs to be sanded, stained or refinished. With these durable products, you can spend more time on the water and less time dockside.

null

For more tips on how to build a decked-out dock, visit www.Trex.com.

*Trex SunComfortable™ products with heat-mitigating technology are designed to be cooler than most other composite decking products of a similar color. Although engineered to be more comfortable, they can still get hot to the touch when direct sunlight and high temperatures converge for extended periods of time. On such days, care should be taken.

Posted on

Comedian Kenan Thompson Doesn’t Think GERD is So Funny

2025-04-17T13:31:00

(BPT) – Actor, author and comedian Kenan Thompson can find humor in just about anything. However, one thing he cannot find the humor in is the heartburn due to Non-Erosive gastroesophageal reflux disease (Non-Erosive GERD) — and he is sharing that GERD is no joke. “Even though GERD is a funny word, it’s definitely not a funny thing to have,” said Thompson. When Thompson first started experiencing heartburn about two years ago, it started to affect him more and more frequently, but he didn’t know exactly what was causing it or how to treat it. He tried taking other medications, but they just weren’t doing the trick.

“I would get this horrible burning pain in the middle of my chest. Heartburn was affecting my sleep because it would happen over and over again throughout the night — then having an early call time the next morning for work was not my idea of a good time,” said Thompson. “In my line of work, I sing a lot and yell a lot, because being loud is funny. Heartburn was also impacting my voice and sometimes making it hoarse, and I need to maintain the strength of my vocal tone. It’s hard to do comedy when you don’t feel your best.”

After seeing his doctor, Thompson was diagnosed with Non-Erosive GERD. He learned that many acidic foods he loved, like pizza and pasta with marinara sauce, could trigger his symptoms. He also learned about a treatment that could help to relieve his heartburn, VOQUEZNA® (vonoprazan), a prescription medication available in the United States. VOQUEZNA is approved for heartburn relief in adults with Non-Erosive GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) and healing and related heartburn relief in adults with Erosive Esophagitis, also known as Erosive GERD.

Thompson’s experience with Non-Erosive GERD and his treatment, VOQUEZNA, has led him to partner with Phathom Pharmaceuticals, the makers of VOQUEZNA, on the GERD IS NO JOKE campaign, where he is taking part in a new TV commercial portraying the comedic role of a chef in a “Kick Some Acid Cooking Show,” which is a humorous nod to how VOQUEZNA has helped him better control his heartburn. Thompson is encouraging people suffering from the condition to speak to their doctor about this treatment option. Keep reading to learn more.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

Do not take VOQUEZNA if you:

  • are allergic to vonoprazan or any of the other ingredients in VOQUEZNA. Allergic reaction symptoms may include trouble breathing, rash, itching, and swelling of your face, lips, tongue or throat.
  • are taking a medicine that contains rilpivirine (EDURANT, COMPLERA, JULUCA, ODEFSEY) used to treat HIV-1 (Human Immunodeficiency Virus).

Please see Indication and full Important Safety Information below.

What is GERD?

GERD occurs when stomach acid flows into the esophagus and causes irritation. It’s one of the most common gastrointestinal (GI) diseases with over 65 million people in the U.S. living with the condition. Heartburn is one the most frequent symptoms of GERD. However, depending on its severity, GERD can cause heartburn, regurgitation, difficulty eating and drinking plus damage to the esophageal lining. It can also impact physical and social activities and your daily life.

There are two main types of GERD. About 30% (~20 million Americans) have Erosive GERD, also called Erosive Esophagitis, which occurs when stomach acid damages the lining of the esophagus. The other main type of GERD — and the largest subset of this common GI disease — is Non-Erosive GERD, which affects about 45 million U.S. adults. People with Non-Erosive GERD may experience reflux-related symptoms such as heartburn and regurgitation, but no acid-related damage to the esophagus. Without effective management, however, GERD can lead to serious complications.

Finding relief from heartburn

The first step is to talk to your doctor about what you’re experiencing.

“I get it, it can be intimidating, but go talk to your doctor,” advised Thompson. “They’re the only one who can actually diagnose GERD and get you feeling better and back to doing the things you love. For me, that’s making people laugh!”

Thompson’s doctor prescribed VOQUEZNA which has helped relieve his heartburn.

VOQUEZNA, the first and only FDA-approved treatment of its kind, a potassium-competitive acid blocker (PCAB). It is approved for the relief of heartburn related to Non-Erosive GERD and Erosive GERD, as well as for the healing and maintenance of Erosive GERD.

If you have questions about your symptoms, check out Thompson’s tips for talking to a doctor about GERD — including VOQUEZNA as a treatment option — and learn more about Thompson’s personal story at GERDIsNoJoke.com.

INDICATION AND IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

What is VOQUEZNA?

  • VOQUEZNA® (vonoprazan) is a prescription medicine used in adults:
    • for 8 weeks to heal acid-related damage to the lining of the esophagus (called Erosive Esophagitis) and for relief of heartburn related to Erosive Esophagitis.
    • for up to 6 months to maintain healing of Erosive Esophagitis and for relief of heartburn related to Erosive Esophagitis.
    • for 4 weeks for relief of heartburn related to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

It is not known if VOQUEZNA is safe and effective in children.

Do not take VOQUEZNA if you:

  • are allergic to vonoprazan or any of the other ingredients in VOQUEZNA. Allergic reaction symptoms may include trouble breathing, rash, itching, and swelling of your face, lips, tongue or throat.
  • are taking a medicine that contains rilpivirine (EDURANT, COMPLERA, JULUCA, ODEFSEY) used to treat HIV-1 (Human Immunodeficiency Virus).

Before taking VOQUEZNA, tell your healthcare provider about all your medical conditions, including if you:

  • have low magnesium, calcium, or potassium in your blood, or you are taking a medicine to increase urine (diuretic).
  • have kidney or liver problems.
  • are pregnant, think you may be pregnant, or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if VOQUEZNA will harm your unborn baby.
  • are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if VOQUEZNA passes into your breast milk. You and your healthcare provider should decide if you will take VOQUEZNA or breastfeed. You should not do both.

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Keep a list of them to show your healthcare provider and pharmacist when you get a new medicine.

VOQUEZNA may affect how other medicines work, and other medicines may affect how VOQUEZNA works. Especially tell your healthcare provider if you take medicine that contains rilpivirine (EDURANT, COMPLERA, JULUCA, ODEFSEY).

What are the possible side effects of VOQUEZNA?

VOQUEZNA may cause serious side effects including:

  • A type of kidney problem (acute tubulointerstitial nephritis): Some people who take VOQUEZNA may develop a kidney problem called acute tubulointerstitial nephritis. Call your healthcare provider right away if you have a decrease in the amount that you urinate or if you notice blood in your urine.
  • Diarrhea caused by an infection (Clostridioides difficile) in your intestines: Call your healthcare provider right away if you have watery stools, stomach pain, and fever that does not go away.
  • Bone fractures (hip, wrist, or spine): Bone fractures in the hip, wrist, or spine may happen in people who take multiple daily doses of another type of medicine that reduces acid in your stomach known as proton pump inhibitors (PPI medicines) for a long period of time (a year or longer). Tell your healthcare provider if you have a bone fracture, especially in the hip, wrist, or spine.
  • Severe skin reactions: VOQUEZNA can cause rare, but severe skin reactions that may affect any part of your body. These serious skin reactions may need to be treated in a hospital and may be life threatening:
    • Skin rash which may have blistering, peeling, or bleeding on any part of your skin.
    • You may also have fever, chills, body aches, shortness of breath, or enlarged lymph nodes.

    If you experience any of these symptoms, stop taking VOQUEZNA and call your healthcare provider right away. These symptoms may be the first sign of a severe skin reaction.

  • Low vitamin B-12 levels: VOQUEZNA lowers the amount of acid in your stomach. Stomach acid is needed to absorb Vitamin B12 properly. Tell your healthcare provider if you have symptoms of low vitamin B12 levels, including irregular heartbeat, shortness of breath, lightheadedness, tingling or numbness in the arms or legs, muscle weakness, pale skin, feeling tired, or mood changes. Talk with your healthcare provider about the risk of low vitamin B12 levels if you have been on VOQUEZNA for a long time.
  • Low magnesium levels in the body can happen in people who take VOQUEZNA. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have symptoms of low magnesium levels, including seizures, dizziness, irregular heartbeat, jitteriness, muscle aches or weakness, or spasms of the hands, feet, or voice.
  • Stomach growths (fundic gland polyps): A certain type of stomach growth called fundic gland polyps may happen in people who take another type of medicine that reduces acid in your stomach known as proton pump inhibitors (PPI medicines) for a long time. Talk with your healthcare provider about the possibility of fundic gland polyps if you have been on VOQUEZNA for a long time.

The most common side effects of VOQUEZNA for treatment of Erosive Esophagitis and/or relief of heartburn related to gastroesophageal reflux disease include:

  • stomach inflammation
  • diarrhea
  • stomach bloating
  • stomach pain
  • nausea
  • indigestion
  • constipation
  • high blood pressure
  • urinary tract infection

These are not all the possible side effects of VOQUEZNA. For more information, ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist. Call your healthcare provider for medical advice about side effects.

You are encouraged to report suspected adverse reactions by contacting Phathom Pharmaceuticals at 1-888-775-PHAT (7428) or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.

Please see Patient Information and full Prescribing Information for VOQUEZNA.

© 2025 Phathom Pharmaceuticals. All rights reserved.

VOQUEZNA, Phathom Pharmaceuticals, and their respective logos are registered trademarks of Phathom Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

04/25 US-VPZ-24-0763

Posted on

Medicare Part B Now Covers Virtual Care — Here’s Why That Matters for You

2025-04-17T10:01:00

(BPT) – For millions of Americans with Medicare Part B coverage, virtual healthcare offers a convenient alternative to traditional in-person visits.

While Medicare provides essential coverage for those over 65 or living with chronic conditions or disabilities, many patients aren’t aware that virtual healthcare is often fully covered by Medicare. Whether you’re managing a busy schedule, prefer to avoid waiting rooms, or are among the approximately 5.8 million Americans facing access barriers — including the nearly 21% of adults 65 and older with mobility challenges — virtual healthcare makes getting treatment significantly easier.

Virtual healthcare brings medical expertise directly into patients’ homes. This approach eliminates travel time and transportation concerns while making it simpler to stay on top of prescriptions, follow-ups, and routine care. For many Medicare beneficiaries, connecting with a doctor online is more efficient than in-person visits — and because Medicare Part B now covers many telehealth services, virtual care has become a convenient, accessible option from the comfort of home.

For example, PlushCare, a comprehensive virtual health platform available in all 50 states, connects Medicare Part B members with board-certified primary care physicians and therapists.

Older man sitting on the couch at home and talking with a doctor in a video chat.

Here are some advantages of using a virtual care platform to help you manage your health care needs.

  • Eliminate transportation challenges — For those who live far from medical facilities or have mobility limitations, virtual care removes the need to arrange transportation for routine appointments or urgent needs that can be handled remotely.
  • Access same-day appointments — Virtual platforms significantly reduce wait times typically associated with in-person visits. PlushCare offers same-day appointments, often connecting patients with physicians in as little as 15 minutes. Patients can also request or refill prescriptions during these visits, with medications sent directly to their local pharmacy for quick and convenient pickup.
  • Build relationships with consistent providers — Telehealth platforms provide care in a variety of ways. Some platforms offer visits connecting the patient with the first available physician, and other models, such as PlushCare, allow patients to select the physician they would like to see and schedule follow-ups with the same physician if desired.

“Virtual care accelerates access to quality healthcare, empowering patients to take a more proactive approach to their health,” explains Dr. Leo Vieira, medical director at PlushCare. “For Medicare beneficiaries facing mobility challenges, virtual care provides consistent, timely access — particularly valuable for patients in remote or underserved areas.”

For Medicare Part B members seeking preventive care, chronic condition management, prescription services or urgent care consultations, virtual platforms offer a convenient alternative to traditional office visits — with applicable services covered by Medicare.

Learn more about virtual healthcare options for Medicare beneficiaries at PlushCare.com/medicare.

Posted on

Food for Thought: Results from a Food Allergy Survey of Caregivers

2025-04-17T08:01:00

(BPT) – What is it like for millions of American families managing food allergies? To better understand these experiences, Genentech, a member of the Roche Group, and the Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation partnered with The Harris Poll to survey U.S. parents and guardians of children with food allergies. Explore the findings in this infographic to uncover the impact of food allergies and how increased awareness, education, and support can help affected families. If you or your child have food allergies, schedule an appointment with an allergist to discuss your options.

Infographic

Posted on

Spruce up your space: Remodel with the right mini-split

2025-04-17T06:01:00

(BPT) – The COVID-19 pandemic spurred a surge in home renovations as people spent more time at home. Many tackled DIY projects, like converting garages or building tiny homes, to meet new needs and create ideal living spaces. Post-pandemic, the focus has shifted to smaller, more affordable projects. However, some homeowners find their new spaces uncomfortable due to significant temperature differences from the rest of the home.

Elevate your remodel with a smart HVAC system

If you recently completed a renovation project, or are making future plans to do so, one key consideration you may not have thought of yet is the ability to maintain temperature control within the home, while remaining energy efficient. A mini-split is the perfect answer for spaces that require flexible heating and cooling solutions, like older homes, spaces with room and structure upgrades, tiny homes or converted garages. In addition, they are an affordable and efficient option, making them an excellent choice for those looking to improve their space on a budget.

Mix it up with a mini-split

A mini-split, also known as a ductless system, is a compact HVAC system that can efficiently heat and cool small spaces, apartments, and other areas where ductwork isn’t practical or feasible. Like a standard central HVAC system, a mini-split consists of two primary components: an outdoor compressor/condenser unit and one or more indoor air handlers.

Because of their size and relative simplicity, mini-splits are ideal for use in new additions to a home and as a solution for smaller spaces like offices. They are also commonly used in apartment complexes and hotels where multiple small spaces require individual temperature controls.

You might be wondering what the benefits of a mini-split system may be compared to a standard heat pump or air conditioner. Here are just a few ways a mini-split may be the way to go:

  • Increased energy efficiency: Mini-split systems are known for their high energy efficiency. They use less energy compared to traditional HVAC systems, which can lead to significant savings on your utility bills. If you own a tiny home, for example, a ductless mini-split provides a strong combination of efficiency and simplicity for the space allotted.
  • Flexibility and zoning: One of the standout features of mini-split systems is their flexibility. They allow for zoning, meaning you can control the temperature in different rooms independently. This is particularly beneficial for homes with varying heating and cooling needs across different areas — like a colder basement, or warmer top floor.
  • Quiet: Mini-split systems typically operate more quietly than traditional HVAC systems. While Lennox manufactures some of the quietest central HVAC systems, mini-splits are great for spaces where maintaining quiet is important.

Don’t DIY it

When incorporating a mini-split system into your home remodel, it’s essential to professionally install the unit. While DIY projects can be tempting, an improper installation can lead to inefficiencies and potential damage to the system. A professional installer, or dealer, will ensure that your mini-split system is set up correctly and operates at its best. To locate your nearest dealer, visit Lennox.com.

Transform your space with cool solutions

If you’re looking for a top-of-the-line mini-split system, consider the new Lennox Powered by Samsung Mini-Split. Its variable-capacity technology and efficiencies of up to 25.00 SEER2 and 11.00 HSPF2 (measurements that indicate better energy efficiency and lower electricity costs) make the system incredibly efficient. In addition, it integrates with Samsung’s SmartThings app to easily regulate temperature, adjust settings and receive real-time updates about system performance.

By choosing a mini-split system like the Lennox Powered by Samsung, you can enhance your home’s comfort, efficiency and overall value — making that once unusable space the perfect hangout. For more information on the Lennox Powered by Samsung Mini-Split, visit Lennox.com.

Posted on

How to effortlessly elevate outdoor entertaining

2025-04-16T16:01:01

(BPT) – Whether it’s a backyard gathering, a park picnic or a casual evening on the patio, spring and summer offer countless opportunities to entertain in the fresh air.

Bezel, the newest addition to the Cakebread Cellars family, brings over 50 years of hospitality and winemaking expertise to California’s Central Coast. Rooted in Cakebread’s legacy of warmth, community and connection, Bezel offers fruit-forward wines crafted to elevate everyday gatherings with ease.

To help you bring that spirit to life every day, winemaker Jane Dunkley shares her favorite entertaining tips to make every gathering feel extra special.

1. Set the scene at any location

When people think about outdoor hosting, many turn to their backyard. However, don’t feel limited to your personal space. There are plenty of other underestimated, public options that can help to elevate your event.

For example, you can also look for green spaces. A nearby residential park acts as a central and accessible setting for your get-together, and state and national parks where you like to hike or a nearby beach can serve as great options for hosting.

Leaning into the natural beauty of these settings adds an effortless sense of celebration. Whether it’s the sound of waves, a view of the sunset or trees in bloom, the surroundings help set the tone.

2. Elevate the ambiance with easy add-ons

Once you’ve picked your location, it’s time to think about how to create a charming setting. The good news is you don’t have to break the bank to accomplish this. All you need are some intentional decorations, many of which you can bring to life yourself.

DIY decor can go a long way in making an outdoor area feel festive. Think of including seasonal touches on the table, like citrus fruits in a bowl, linen tablecloths or napkins and spring herbs on the serving plate.

Outside of these elements, you can also consider locations that offer some form of ambient lighting. For example, hosting around a fire is a great way to add warmth, and some beaches and parks even provide fire pits or rings for public use. If this isn’t available, lanterns are a great portable option that provide a similar effect, and can be lit with candles, batteries or string lights that are easy to pack.

3. Make beverage service effortless

Create a simple beverage setup where your guests can help themselves. This will encourage mingling and give you more time to enjoy the moment.

Dunkley recommends including a range of food-friendly wines that complement a variety of dishes and preferences. Bezel’s lineup of well-balanced wines is a great option for this, offering a simple yet thoughtful enhancement to any occasion at an approachable price, whether it’s a weeknight dinner, a casual get-together or a moment to unwind at the end of the day.

To round out the station, consider adding jugs of plain and fruit-infused water alongside the selection of wines.

4. Let the pairings lead the way

When curating a menu, consider finger foods and main dishes that can be enjoyed al fresco. Dunkley also encourages embracing unexpected pairings to enhance the experience and give yourself and your guests the freedom to experiment and find pairings that best fit their palate. So, while you may have heard that summer is for white wines, you don’t have to strictly follow this.

For example, chilled red wines like Bezel’s Pinot Noir excellently complement summer barbecue staples like steak and ribs. However, you can also go against the grain by serving this red with grilled salmon.

Three bottles of wine on the beach

Of course, it’s always great to offer traditional warm-weather white wines like Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc and experiment with other unconventional pairings with chips and French dip or sweet and sour pork, which are a few of Dunkley’s favorite options.

Bottle of wine with glass on a table near the ocean

No matter what you choose, remember that the best wine pairing is the wine that tastes best to you. There’s no pressure, and to find these and other suggested wine pairings, visit BezelWines.com.

Whether you’re a veteran or novice host, these tips can help you take your outdoor entertaining to the next level.

Please drink responsibly. To learn more, please visit Responsibility.org.

Posted on

How to put your penny to good use: Maximizing the value of spare change

2025-04-16T07:01:00

(BPT) – Across American households, spare change often sits idle — coins tucked away in jars, drawers or even old wallets. As the conversation around halting penny production in the United States proliferates, many consumers are left wondering if the humble penny has lost its value. The truth is, even if new pennies are no longer minted, every cent already in circulation continues to hold its worth. In fact, there are several smart and simple ways to put your pennies to good use that not only benefit your wallet but also support the community and the environment.

Understanding the value of the penny

For years, pennies have sparked debates over their cost-effectiveness and practicality. Yet, while the U.S. Mint could stop producing new pennies, the billions already in circulation remain an important part of everyday transactions. It’s estimated that American households are sitting on $7.7 billion in spare change, proving that every coin counts in our economy. This existing inventory supports not just individual spending but also vital systems of financial inclusion, especially for those who prefer and depend on cash.

Here are a few tips on how to unlock the hidden potential of your spare change:

Recycle to conserve natural resources. One of the simplest and most impactful ways to use your pennies is to recycle them. Recycling coins minimizes the need for additional raw materials, thereby reducing the environmental footprint associated with minting new coins. This eco-friendly approach not only helps the environment but also cuts down on the energy and material costs associated with mining and manufacturing.

Green plant growing out of a glass jar of pennies.

Donate to charity. Donating pennies to charity is another excellent way to put your spare change to good use. Many charitable organizations appreciate coin donations, which can support a variety of causes, including food banks and community projects. For instance, Coinstar collected 14.2 billion pennies in 2024, many of which were donated to charities. Last year alone, consumers donated over $1.4 million to charities by recycling their coins through Coinstar. This means that even the smallest coins can combine to make a meaningful impact on those in need.

Support currency recirculation. Keeping coins in circulation is essential to reducing the demand for new minting, which in turn conserves resources and supports financial efficiency. Services like Coinstar are vital in this process. Its network not only helps recycle coins but also transforms them into spendable cash or digital funds. Coinstar’s existing infrastructure can support many times over the current U.S. Mint production, with over 18,000 kiosks across all 50 states, making cash and coins readily available for everyday transactions. With 50 million annual transactions, Coinstar is ensuring that coins can remain a dynamic part of our economy.

Support small businesses. Many local and cash-only businesses still depend on physical currency for everyday transactions. By spending your cash wisely — be it for a coffee or a small treat — you not only enjoy a little indulgence but also support local commerce. More than 90% of consumers intend to continue using cash as a means of payment or store of value in the future, highlighting the ongoing relevance of even the smallest denominations.

null

Digitize your coins. As our economy embraces digital solutions, Coinstar, through various partner relationships, provides access to services that can digitize physical cash and coin, such as loading to a prepaid account, transferring cash to a bank account, and purchasing cryptocurrency and stablecoins. Digitizing your spare change can help streamline finances and integrate seamlessly into modern banking and payment systems, ensuring that your pennies remain as versatile as ever.

Although new penny production may stop, this does not mean that you must stop using your pennies. The billions of pennies in existence today continue to have value that can still be used. Re-circulating coin puts spendable cash in all Americans’ hands, in support of the consumer and our economy. So next time you find a jar full of spare change, remember that those pennies still have the power to support sustainability, empower your community, and contribute to your financial well-being.

Posted on

Six ways to get ready for a national park trip

2025-04-16T13:01:00

(BPT) – From the geysers of Yellowstone to the granite cliffs of Yosemite, America’s national parks remain a premier destination for outdoor exploration. For many travelers, visiting national parks is a bucket list ambition. In fact, one in four Americans aspire to visit every national park in their lifetime, according to a recent online survey conducted in January 2025.*

With warmer weather on the horizon and outdoor enthusiasts gearing up for the season — especially around moments like National Park Week, happening April 19-27 — now is the ideal time to start planning a national park adventure.

Before hitting the trail, OFF!® Mosquito and Tick Repellents has partnered with the National Park Foundation to share six tips to help make any national park experience worry-free and more memorable, so you can focus on the adventure.

1. Reserve entry passes and campsites early

Many parks have moved to a reservation-based system to manage crowds. Book timed entry passes, campsites and guided tours well in advance. Highly visited parks like Arches, Glacier and Rocky Mountain often sell out weeks ahead.

2. Plan for unexpected weather and layer up

Weather can be hard to plan around. Temps can drop fast — especially at higher altitudes — and unexpected showers can change hiking plans instantly. Come prepared with extra clothing — like a lightweight jacket, waterproof gear and long sleeves — in case the weather changes. If camping, consider extra layers for chilly nights.

3. Don’t let mosquitoes and ticks ruin the experience

With Mother Nature comes the presence of biting insects, like mosquitoes and ticks. Check the OFF!Cast Mosquito Forecast to see mosquito activity in the area up to seven days in advance. Bring a long-lasting mosquito and tick repellent, like OFF!® Deep Woods, to help prevent bites and ensure the outdoors are enjoyed uninterrupted.

4. Pack high-protein snacks and water

The summer heat can drain you, especially in Southwestern parks like the Grand Canyon. Pack a large water bottle (two liters or more) and hydrate frequently. For longer hikes, consider packing a filtration water bottle or straw. Save room in your backpack for high-protein snacks to keep you energized.

5. The early bird catches the worm

For the most peaceful experience, arrive before sunrise. You’ll beat the crowds and get a front-row seat at a beautiful sunrise.

6. See them all

Why stop at one? Visiting every national park may feel like a dream, but with planning, it’s achievable. Make a plan by searching for national parks based on a location, activity or topic and get one step closer to adventure.

*Online survey conducted by The Harris Poll on behalf of OFF!® Mosquito and Tick Repellents in the United States between January 16-21, 2025, among a nationally representative sample of 3,051 adults above the age of 18.

Posted on

How one innovative company is addressing the rising costs of coffee

2025-04-16T07:01:00

(BPT) – Whether it’s served hot or iced, sweetened or black, coffee remains one of the most popular beverages in the United States — and the world. According to Drive Research, 73% of Americans enjoy coffee daily, and a whopping 93% consume it at least once per week. But the cost of this favorite drink keeps increasing, putting the rapidly growing $130 billion coffee industry at risk as global warming could reduce available viable land for coffee cultivation up to 50% by 2050. Coffee consumption has skyrocketed 60% over the last 30 years, resulting in significant environmental damage in coffee-growing regions, including deforestation, increased water usage and extensive pesticide use.

Due to extreme weather, logistical hurdles, workforce shortages, and increasing demand driving up coffee costs, the need for long-term solutions to improve coffee cultivation has never been more pressing. One groundbreaking biotech company, Pluri (Nasdaq: PLUR), is answering the call by pioneering cell-based coffee production through its subsidiary, Coffeesai.

Coffeesai uses advanced 3D cell technology to produce authentic ground coffee in a lab using a patented, scalable cell cultivation production system — without the constraints involved with traditional coffee farming. This innovative process mimics nature without exploiting it, ensuring consistent quality and high yields while using minimal resources.

Cup of coffee with ground beans around the cup.

Cell-based coffee production directly addresses some key factors behind coffee price volatility:

Supply chain resilience: Bio-farming removes reliance on weather-sensitive crops, mitigating climate-related disruptions.

Higher efficiency: The bio-farming system is designed to scale up production by generating the equivalent of 80,000 coffee plants in just three weeks, using only plant leaves.

Sustainability and cost reduction: This method slashes water usage by 98%, addressing a major driver of coffee production costs and its environmental impact.

While coffee production challenges persist, world demand for coffee is expected to triple by 2050. The cell-based production method minimizes the environmental impact of coffee production, as current production methods have a high carbon footprint, and upcoming regulations are expected to further strain producers.

“Cell technology can make farming and food cultivation more productive and sustainable for the future, starting with transforming coffee production,” said Pluri CEO and president Yaky Yanay. “Our advanced agtech solutions have the potential to reduce the environmental footprint of traditional agricultural production, overcoming the biggest challenges posed by climate change.”

The future of coffee

By using cutting-edge cellular agriculture technology to produce cell-based real coffee, Coffeesai delivers the perfect cup without depleting the planet’s resources. Coffeesai’s cell-based coffee is:

  • Pesticide and contaminant free
  • Consistently perfect in flavor profile
  • Available year-round, independent of harvest seasons
  • Scalable to meet commercial needs

Coffeesai can also produce customized products like naturally decaffeinated coffee.

This process improves the supply chain, helps protect the environment and makes pricing more predictable by decreasing labor costs and the production footprint, while helping reduce deforestation, pesticide usage and agricultural waste. Bio-farming also reduces the carbon emissions related to farming, transportation and roasting.

“It’s not just a cup of coffee: Coffeesai is a commitment to innovation, sustainability and the joy of a perfectly brewed cup,” added Yanay.

Whether you’re a coffee lover or eco-advocate, Coffeesai offers an unmatched, sustainable coffee experience without compromising on taste — or harming the planet.

Learn how Pluri and Coffeesai are pushing the boundaries of science and engineering to create cell-based products for commercial use, pioneering a biotech revolution that promotes global well-being and sustainability, at Pluri-Biotech.com/landing-pages/coffee.

Posted on

New nonopioid approved for moderate-to-severe acute pain

2025-04-15T07:01:00

(BPT) – Acute pain can affect anyone.1 Short-term pain (acute) starts suddenly following an injury or medical procedure and lasts less than three months.2,3 Acute pain can impact your quality of life, disrupt your day, and can affect your professional and emotional well-being.4,5 Forming a treatment plan with your doctor to help manage your acute pain is important, as inadequate pain management can have consequences that affect a patient’s quality of life.4

There are approximately 80 million U.S. adults prescribed acute pain medication annually, and about 40 million receive opioids to manage their pain.6 While opioids can be effective, they also carry a risk of addiction.7 In fact, each year, Vertex Pharmaceuticals estimates approximately 85,000 patients develop opioid use disorder (OUD) within one year of starting an opioid treatment.8

Health care providers may prescribe either acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) as alternatives.7 While these treatments are generally well tolerated, they may have limited effectiveness, particularly for moderate-to-severe acute pain.7

A new path to pain management

Today, adult patients have a new option to treat their moderate-to-severe acute pain. As of January 2025, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved JOURNAVX™ (suzetrigine), the first new class of medicine for acute pain in more than 20 years.9-12

JOURNAVX is an oral, nonopioid, selective NaV1.8 pain signal inhibitor approved for the treatment of moderate-to-severe acute pain in adults.9,13 JOURNAVX reduces pain by targeting a specific sodium channel in the peripheral nervous system that blocks pain signals prior to reaching the brain.9,13 Opioid medications can act on both the peripheral nervous system and the central nervous system (CNS). Acting on the CNS triggers the brain reward system, which may lead to opioid misuse, addiction and opioid use disorder.14-17

JOURNAVX is a prescription medicine used to treat adults with moderate-to-severe short-term (acute) pain.9 It is widely available and is now on the shelves in retail pharmacies across the country. For more information about JOURNAVX, visit JOURNAVX.com or speak with your doctor.

This article was sponsored by Vertex Pharmaceuticals Incorporated.

INDICATION AND USAGE

JOURNAVX is a prescription medicine used to treat adults with moderate-to-severe short-term (acute) pain.

It is not known if JOURNAVX is safe and effective in children.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

Patients should not take JOURNAVX if they take certain medicines that are strong inhibitors of an enzyme called CYP3A. Patients should ask their healthcare providers if they are not sure.

Before taking JOURNAVX, patients should tell their healthcare provider about all of their medical conditions, including if they: have liver problems, as people with liver problems may have an increased risk of getting side effects from taking JOURNAVX; are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, as it is not known if JOURNAVX will harm an unborn baby. Patients and their healthcare providers should decide if they will take JOURNAVX while they are pregnant, are breastfeeding, or are planning to breastfeed, as it is not known if JOURNAVX passes into breast milk. Patients and their healthcare providers should decide if they will take JOURNAVX while they are breastfeeding.

Patients should tell their healthcare provider about all the medicines they take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Taking JOURNAVX with certain other medicines may affect the way JOURNAVX and the other medicines work and may increase patients’ risk of side effects. Patients should ask their healthcare provider or pharmacist for a list of these medicines if they are not sure.

Patients should especially tell their healthcare provider if they take hormonal birth control medicine (contraceptives) containing progestins other than levonorgestrel or norethindrone. If they take one of these contraceptives (progestins other than levonorgestrel or norethindrone), they may not work as well during treatment with JOURNAVX. Patients should also use nonhormonal contraceptives such as condoms or use other forms of hormonal birth control during treatment with JOURNAVX and for 28 days after they stop taking JOURNAVX. Medicines that are substrates of the CYP3A enzyme may become less effective during treatment with JOURNAVX. Their healthcare provider may need to adjust the dose of patients’ medicine when starting or stopping JOURNAVX. Patients should know the medicines they take and keep a list of them to show their healthcare provider and pharmacist when they get a new medicine. Patients should not take food or drink containing grapefruit while taking JOURNAVX.

JOURNAVX can cause side effects: The most common side effects for patients treated with JOURNAVX include itching, muscle spasms, increased blood level of creatine phosphokinase, and rash. JOURNAVX may temporarily reduce the chance of females becoming pregnant while on treatment. Patients should talk to their healthcare provider if they have concerns about becoming pregnant. If patients are using contraceptives, continue to use contraceptives during treatment with JOURNAVX. Patients should tell their healthcare provider if they have any side effect that bothers them or that does not go away. These are not all of the possible side effects of JOURNAVX. Patients should call their healthcare provider for medical advice about side effects. Patients may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Please click here for the full Prescribing Information, including Patient Information, for JOURNAVX.

JOURNAVX is manufactured for Vertex Pharmaceuticals Incorporated.

JOURNAVX is a trademark of Vertex Pharmaceuticals Incorporated.

© 2025 Vertex Pharmaceuticals Incorporated | VXR-US-43-2500326 (v1.0) | 04/2025

  1. “Ouch, that hurts!” The science of pain. NIH MedlinePlus Magazine. Accessed February 20, 2025. https://magazine.medlineplus.gov/article/ouch-that-hurts-the-science-of-pain.
  2. Pain management center. International Association for the Study of Pain (IASP). Accessed February 20, 2025. https://www.iasp-pain.org/resources/toolkits/pain-management-center/chapter1/.
  3. Acute pain. International Association for the Study of Pain (IASP). January 12, 2023. Accessed February 20, 2025. https://www.iasp-pain.org/resources/topics/acute-pain/.
  4. Sinatra R. Causes and consequences of inadequate management of acute pain. Pain Med. 2010;11(12):1859-1871. doi:10.1111/j.1526-4637.2010.00983.x.
  5. Strassels S, McNichol E, Wagner A, et al. Persistent postoperative pain, health-related quality of life, and functioning 1 month after hospital discharge. Acute Pain. 2004;6(3-4): 95-104. doi:10.1016/j.acpain.2004.08.002.
  6. Lopez A, Jones J, Menzie AM, Peta S, Ippolito A, Rubin J. An evaluation of the prevalence of acute and chronic pain medication use in the United States: a real-world database analysis. Presented at: ASRA Annual Pain Medicine Meeting; November 10-11, 2023; New Orleans, LA.
  7. Blondell RD, Azadfard M, Wisniewski AM. Pharmacologic therapy for acute pain. Am Fam Physician. 2013;87(11):766-772.
  8. Data on file. Vertex Pharmaceuticals Incorporated. Boston, MA. REF-25086 (v1.0); 2024.
  9. JOURNAVX [prescribing information]. Vertex Pharmaceuticals Incorporated. Boston, MA; January 2025.
  10. Conaghan PG. A turbulent decade for NSAIDs: update on current concepts of classification, epidemiology, comparative efficacy, and toxicity. Rheumatol Int. 2012;32(6):1491-1502. doi:10.1007/s00296-011-2263-6.
  11. Drug Therapeutics & Regulation in the U.S. U.S. Food & Drug Administration. January 31, 2023. Accessed February 20, 2025. https://www.fda.gov/about-fda/fda-history-exhibits/drug-therapeutics-regulation-us.
  12. Timeline of Selected FDA Activities and Significant Events Addressing Substance Use and Overdose Prevention. January 13, 2025. Accessed February 20, 2025. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/food-and-drug-administration-overdose-prevention-framework/timeline-selected-fda-activities-and-significant-events-addressing-substance-use-and-overdose.
  13. Osteen JD, Immani S, Tapley TL, et al. Pharmacology and mechanism of action of suzetrigine, a potent and selective NaV1.8 pain signal inhibitor for the treatment of moderate to severe pain. Pain Ther. doi:10.1007/s40122-024-00697-0.
  14. Oesterle TS. What are opioids and why are they dangerous? Mayo Clinic. August 26, 2023. Accessed March 25, 2025. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/prescription-drug-abuse/expert-answers/what-are-opioids/faq-20381270.
  15. Amaechi O, Huffman MM, Featherstone K. Pharmacologic therapy for acute pain. Am Fam Physician. 2021;104(1):63-72.
  16. How opioid use disorder occurs. Mayo Clinic. July 20, 2024. Accessed December 10, 2024. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/prescription-drug-abuse/in-depth/how-opioid-addiction-occurs/art-20360372.
  17. Sehgal N, Smith HS, Manchikanti L. Peripherally acting opioids and clinical implications for pain control. Pain Physician. 2011;14(3):249-258.

© 2025 Vertex Pharmaceuticals Incorporated | VXR-US-43-2500326 (v1.0) | 04/2025