Posted on

Brett Eldredge’s Top 10 Holiday Decor Picks

2023-12-06T12:47:00

(BPT) – This is it, folks. Platinum-selling recording artist Brett “Mr. Christmas” Eldredge has unwrapped his décor picks for the 2023 holiday season, and it might just be the best-looking list of all time.

The décor guide was released as part of Eldredge’s ongoing partnership with Lowe’s, which is also the official décor sponsor of his 2023 Glow LIVE holiday tour. The tour, based on his celebrated 2016 album of the same name, has grown into a beloved Christmas­time tradition across the country.

“This is my favorite time of the year, and I love that Lowe’s goes all out — because I do, too,” said Eldredge. “From the classic trees that I love to yard décor, matching garland and wreaths, and more, they’ve got all the festive finds to greet guests, inspire wonder or get in the spirit.”

1. For the New Homeowner

The first holiday in a new house often means starting from scratch, décor wise. This magical, yet classic Pre­Lit Fawn and Doe Pair will get any freshly minted homeowner off to a stunning start.

2. For the Outdoor Decorator

Whether they have a sweeping estate or a petite patio, this 9­ft Spruce Artificial Garland is beautiful for anyone who takes a festive pride in their home’s exterior.

3. For the Coziness Champ

Classic aesthetic meets comfy vibes with this chic French Blue Throw. It’s a wonderful gift for bookworms and movie buffs alike who prefer to snuggle up in style.

4. For the Practical One

This Outdoor Door Mat is sure to delight, being both undeniably charming and classy — with a fun twist.

5. For the Crowd Pleaser

Mantles are the focal point of a room and can be decorated for each and every season. This festive, charming deer is the perfect stunner to get holiday guests talking and bring in the holiday spirit!

6. For the Traditionalist

For those that find the holidays about shimmery perfection, this 48­in Artificial Wreath, crafted with mixed greenery, golden baubles and fairy lights, is ideal.

7. For the Hot Cocoa Enthusiast

Tasteful and playful, these Candy Cane colored mugs are perfect for the seasonal hot drink connoisseur with a soft spot for cute design. They can even be packed with hot chocolate supplies to create a charming cocoa kit!

8. For the Interior Remixer

If they love giving their indoor space a facelift from time to time, they’ll love these Gradient Tan Faux Sheepskin Throw Pillows. They’re deliciously soft, with a neutral color palette that complements just about everything.

9. For the Stocking Stuffer

Who doesn’t love opening a full stocking on Christmas morning? Make your stockings the star of the show with these Silver Stocking Hangers.

10. For the One Who Needs to Think Big

As for big spaces, this graceful 11-ft Pre-Lit Artificial Tree is the ultimate gift for someone who hasn’t figured out how to get the most out of their grand hall just yet. It’s 132 inches of splendor, sure to give even the most towering rooms the coziest Christmas glow.

Of course, the choices don’t stop at just these ten ideas. You can find all Eldredge’s décor picks, as well as gift picks for everyone on your list, on Lowes.com. With a list this good, you’re guaranteed to have the most magical home on the block.

Posted on

Controlling your journey with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) while overcoming inequity in IBD health care

2023-12-06T12:01:00

(BPT) – For those living with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)—like Crohn’s disease (CD) or ulcerative colitis (UC)—every day can feel like a struggle. From a wide variety of symptoms that can include weight loss and severe abdominal pain to fatigue and persistent diarrhea, IBD is truly a chronic illness that can impact many aspects of a person’s life.

This struggle is something that Brooke Abbott—a 40-year-old Californian and IBD patient advocate—can certainly relate to. After having her beautiful baby boy, she developed abscesses and extra-intestinal manifestations like joint pain, uveitis (light sensitivity), and hair loss, which she initially attributed to postpartum—before later learning these were all signs of UC. At her lowest point with the illness, she would experience extreme fatigue, rapid weight loss, urgency every time she ate, and bloody stools. This all changed in 2012, when she had her colon surgically removed, then had an ostomy bag placed for six months. Now, Brooke lives with a j-pouch (an internal pouch shaped out of the end of her small intestine), which combined with her previous surgery, has allowed her to live a healthier and happier day-to-day as related to UC symptoms.

The symptoms of her disease were not the only struggles that Brooke endured. Her healthcare journey was made even more challenging through disparities in care that are sometimes experienced by patients of color. She dealt with consistent doubt regarding her symptoms from doctors, some of whom went as far as to accuse her of drug seeking. Others told her she couldn’t have IBD if her parents were Black. To quote Brooke directly, she felt “gaslit,” as she was told her symptoms were psychosomatic (or physical symptoms that lack a medical explanation), with doctors not providing her with all treatment options as they thought her case was mild to moderate. Even when preparing for her colon removal, she was met with misinformation on the process and her fertility. In her words, all of these struggles led to her feeling like the illness was her own fault. It took her almost 12 years to find a care team that listened to her fully and addressed her symptoms.

“Dealing with a chronic illness can feel impossible some days, without adding in the layer of inequity, disparity, and racism I found myself combating day-to-day,” Brooke reflects. “Although every day was an uphill battle, with each attempt to advocate for my own health, my resolve got stronger and stronger. I learned to be a subject matter expert on myself and be my own biggest advocate.”

Unfortunately, Brooke is not alone in her experience. Between 1970 and 2010, IBD incidence rates rose 134% in communities of color, compared to only 39% in white IBD patients. Despite the disparity in those numbers, inequalities around access and quality of care remain. Her experience and the experiences of patients like her drove Brooke to become an advocate for equitable health care and addressing unconscious bias within the broader healthcare system. Brooke hopes that greater awareness of issues like these could lead more doctors to reflect on whether they’re operating from a position of unconscious bias or if they can do more to address bias within their healthcare systems.

“You are the person who knows you best—and that is the most crucial piece of the puzzle when it comes to managing your own health. Do your research, keep a journal of your symptoms, and never be afraid to advocate for yourself. I promise, there is hope on the other side of every challenging conversation.”

What does hope look like for Brooke? Today, she focuses on her physical and mental health, being a mother, and providing a voice to others—all things that led her to create her own social media platform, The Crazy Creole Mommy, which she uses to further her IBD advocacy. Additionally, she’s formed a nonprofit advocacy group to support moms living with or caring for people living with IBD called IBDMoms.* Through both initiatives, Brooke has been able to encourage, challenge, and support those living with IBD.

For those newly diagnosed with IBD or feeling alone in their IBD journey, Brooke has three key tips for how to feel settled and supported. First, learn as much as possible about the diagnosis, to help feel confident when speaking with healthcare teams. Second, be patient when finding the right treatment plan—the process can take time, but exploration is key in finding what works best. Finally, find community with others who understand and empathize with the IBD journey. Social media and online support groups can be great for creating meaningful connections with other patients.

“Finding your voice is vital when it comes to advocating for your own physical and mental health. By having patience, grace, and strength, I feel in control of my own journey with IBD—and I know others can too.”

Those living with CD or UC are encouraged to address all concerns with their healthcare providers and to join Brooke and other IBD advocates through IBD Social Circle, an online community sponsored by Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc., that is dedicated to supporting the IBD community. For additional patient and caregiver resources created by Color of Crohn’s and Chronic Illness (COCCI) with communities of color at the center, visit www.COCCI.org.

Sponsored by Janssen Biotech, Inc.

*Janssen Biotech, Inc., does not have control over the content or posts on IBD Moms or The Crazy Creole Mommy.

Posted on

Top 5 outdoor design trends for 2024

2023-12-05T20:01:00

(BPT) – With the new year just around the corner, you may be thinking ahead about home improvements you want to make in the coming year. Especially if you’d like to maximize your outdoor space, planning ahead is crucial. Imagining exactly how you want to use the area outside your home can help you make decisions for expanding your living space beyond its four walls — comfortably and beautifully.

To start your planning process, these 2024 design trends may influence your decision-making, along with tips and tools to help turn your outdoor living dreams into reality.

1. Unique usage of space

Due to higher interest rates and other factors, today’s homeowners are staying in their homes longer. As a result, homeowners are getting more creative around using their existing outdoor spaces, and are heavily investing in this part of their property. Instead of just an outdoor barbecue area where friends and family can hang out, outdoor spaces are fulfilling functions traditionally seen only indoors.

Beyond building entire outdoor kitchens, homeowners are creating outdoor office areas for remote work in the fresh air, studios for creative endeavors and areas suitable for meditation, yoga or other forms of exercise. The sky is the limit when it comes to your outdoor space. How about a gaming area or a movie theater? Imagine how you most want to spend your time outdoors, then see how you can make it happen.

2. A backyard retreat

Another result of today’s economic climate is that multigenerational homes are becoming more popular. And with more family members sharing a home, many may be seeking ways to create more private spaces for family to enjoy a little “me time.”

Outdoor spaces present a huge opportunity to create more breathing room and expand beyond the four walls of your home. Separating parts of your outdoor area by adding screen panels or shade structures can help invite solitude for individuals needing a little escape. You can even find ways to mask intrusive noise such as a water feature or wind chimes, which can make a world of difference for developing a peaceful outdoor oasis.

3. Eco-friendly attitudes

Although this is not a new trend, 2024 will see further expansion of environmentally friendly projects like pollinator gardens, stormwater captures, native planting, zero-scaping and using permeable pavers in outdoor spaces.

For example, Belgard’s permeable pavers, also known as permeable interlocking concrete pavements (PICP), are installed with layers of varying-sized stone or aggregate underneath that filter and direct stormwater to underground aquifers, mimicking the way natural land absorbs water. With permeable concrete pavers and permeable grass pavers, any rain falling on your patio, walkway or driveway seeps back into the ground, reducing the burden on storm drains.

The primary goal for all these approaches is to develop a more eco-friendly outdoor space requiring fewer resources — making it easier and more natural to maintain.

4. Natural tones and materials

The emphasis on the environment and incorporating nature into your outdoor space also inspires design choices based on colors found in nature, and materials with the look and feel of organic elements.

Staying within this aesthetic, you can find hardscaping options ranging from retaining wall systems, outdoor kitchens, fire pits and pavers for patios, walkways and driveways from Belgard offering a color palette ranging from neutrals to cool and warm tones — but always appearing natural and pleasing to the eye.

5. Gardens galore

One of the biggest shifts across the country is a renewed interest in gardening and growing your own food. From those who want to live more healthful, balanced lives to foodies who seek to use the freshest produce in their culinary creations, gardening is the answer — and a fun, easy way to spend time outside. This trend also brings generations together, from those who’ve been gardening for decades to enthusiastic new gardeners of Gen Z.

Another great thing about gardening is that you don’t need much square footage to get started. Container gardens, raised beds and vertical gardening are all ways to explore growing your own fruits, vegetables and herbs.

Ready to get inspired? Learn about all the possibilities for your outdoor space at Belgard.com.

For additional help envisioning your outdoor space, Belgard Rooms Planner gives contractors and homeowners a templated outdoor design plan that can be further customized to meet every homeowner’s needs. Even better, Belgard Rooms provides an augmented reality (AR) feature, letting you select AR plans and drop them into your outdoor space to view, walk through and scale templated outdoor rooms, bringing them to life in your own backyard. AR Rooms makes it easy for you to test a variety of rooms, features and styles in your outdoor space, also making it easier to communicate your vision with your contractor. Currently, 38 AR Rooms can be viewed on any device that will help you design your dream space in 2024.

Posted on

Homeownership Has Different Paths, Here’s How to Get Started

2023-12-05T07:01:00

(BPT) – By Brian Walsh, “CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™”1, SoFi

Deciding to purchase a home, especially if you’re a first-time homebuyer, is a big and exciting milestone. It will define your finances in the short- and long-term and will likely be the biggest purchase of your life, so it’s natural to want to make sure everything goes right — location, budgeting, credit profile, Realtor, and lender.

Now, there is no one-size-fits-all approach when preparing to buy a house, and everyone’s financial situation is different, but there are some good rules of thumb to follow as you develop your plan. That’s where I come in, to help ease some anxieties in the preparation process and to offer some helpful tips as your planning and path to homeownership begins.

Can I Afford to Buy a House?

Affordability is one of the main obstacles people face when deciding to purchase a house. Property values have substantially increased since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic as buyers flocked to suburban settings and purchased new properties. Three years ago, interest rates were historically low, creating ideal conditions for some buyers to secure an affordable loan.

Since then, however, rates have risen as the Federal Reserve — the main federal government agency responsible for rate hikes — has sought to combat inflation, resulting in an increase in mortgage rates as well. For prospective first-time home buyers who are just now exploring homeownership, now is the ideal time to start creating a plan to put you on a path toward homeownership.

While saving toward your down payment fund may take time, here are some ways to help you get started:

If your timeline is under three years, consider a conservative investment portfolio, or maybe a high-yield savings account.

If your outlook is three to five years from now, consider a conservative or moderately conservative investment portfolio that can grow your money faster than a cash-based account.

If you’re anticipating buying a house in the next five to 10 years, consider a moderate or moderately aggressive investment portfolio that can yield higher returns in the long run.

Planning and budgeting will help create friendlier paths as you pursue homeownership.

Credit Score is Paramount

Your credit profile also plays an important role in your planning.

One of the best things to do ahead of a home purchase is to understand and build your credit score. Banks and lenders look at your credit score to determine your creditworthiness and to evaluate the risk associated with lending you money. Typically, the higher your credit score, the higher the chance that you will be able to lower your interest rate. Over the life of a loan — say 15, 20, or 30 years — this could potentially translate to thousands of dollars in savings. A lower rate will keep monthly payments lower or even provide the ability for you to pay back the loan faster.

As an example, let’s look at SoFi’s mortgage calculator: If you were to take out a mortgage on a $500,000 home after putting 20% down with an 8% interest rate on a 30-year fixed rate mortgage, your monthly payment would be $2,935 and you would pay $656,620 total with interest over the life of the loan.

If you were to take out that same loan with a 7% rate of interest, your monthly payment would be $2,661 and you’d pay $558,035 total with interest. The difference of 1% in interest results in almost $98,585 paid over time.

I’m Ready to Buy Now

Now, if you’ve saved enough and you’re comfortable with your credit score, and you’ve done your research, then it’s time to take the leap!

There are lots of programs out there, so be sure to do your research on which one is the right fit for you.

If you’re a first-time homebuyer, you have access to down payment assistance and flexible loan qualification requirements. Who qualifies as a first-time homebuyer? Someone purchasing their very first home, sure, but also someone who has not owned a principal residence in the past three years, as well as certain other groups. So check into whether you qualify.

First-time homebuyers may be able to get a Federal Housing Administration (FHA) loan, which can have a down payment as low as 3.5%. Some other lenders, like SoFi, also offer as little as 3%2 down for qualifying first-time homebuyers. You may have to pay for private mortgage insurance (PMI) or pay a mortgage insurance premium (MIP), as most lenders require one or the other when the down payment is less than 20% of the purchase price.

Veterans, active military service members, National Guard and reservists, and surviving spouses also have flexible benefits when purchasing a home. If you fall into this category, then you can take out a VA loan that is backed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and offered by private lenders. Because the VA guarantees a portion of the home loan, people in this category can qualify for perks like lower-interest rates, lower closing costs, no mortgage insurance, and no down payment requirement. Make sure your lender offers a VA loan if you decide to pursue this great benefit.

Hire a Good Real Estate Agent

A skilled real estate agent can help buyers locate their dream home, navigate negotiations, and wrap up all that tedious paperwork. An agent with a strong professional network and familiarity with the housing inventory where you’re hoping to buy may even get early word of so-called “whisper listings” — properties that are about to come on the market.

First-time home buyers may find an agent’s guidance to be especially helpful. Experienced buyers may find value in expert advice. (If you do feel confident you have the skills to go it alone, buying a house without a real estate agent is possible.)

Competition Promotes Additional Perks for Buyers

Lenders will compete for your business, so you have the upper hand. Do your research and see what additional perks the lender can give you as you decide on which one is best suited for you and your family. Excellent customer service is essential, so make sure your lender has a reputation of being available, has a rate lock, and an on-time closing guarantee offer. Additionally, it would be best if you select a lender that is able to give you a verified preapproval letter (more on this below).

Mortgage Preapproval

Unlike pre-qualification, which gives you a rough idea of how much money you can borrow, mortgage preapproval is a formal step, when a lender verifies your credit history, income, debt, and assets (so it helps to have your financial documents organized in advance).

This is when you’ll determine what kind of mortgage you want to take out. Will it be a fixed rate or an adjustable rate? How long a term?

A pre-approval letter, typically good for 90 days, states that a lender is tentatively willing to lend you a specific sum for a mortgage. A pre-approval may help your offer stand out since it shows sellers that you’re a serious buyer who has been vetted. That means you’re ready to act when you find your ideal home and agree on a price.

A pre-approval letter is not a guarantee, though. Final loan approval rests with mortgage underwriting.

Happy House Hunting

These tips aren’t meant to be comprehensive, but if you follow some of them, it will make the homebuying experience a little easier. When you’re ready to make your purchase, you’ll know.

Just be sure to consider all your options, including private lenders, and do your own research. Everyone has a different experience. Happy house hunting!

Brian leads advice and planning at SoFi, a personal finance company. In this role, he leads SoFi’s robo-advisor, develops the underlying logic for digital tools, leads the financial planning team, and serves as a spokesperson. Brian has his Ph.D. in Personal Financial Planning from Kansas State University and is a “CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™”. His insights have been featured in TODAY, CNBC, Forbes, the New York Times, WSJ, Fortune, and more. He also creates content delivered via webinars and social media platforms as ‘Dr. Money’.

DISCLOSURES

INVESTMENTS ARE NOT FDIC INSURED • ARE NOT BANK GUARANTEED • MAY LOSE VALUE

SoFi Checking and Savings accounts are offered by SoFi Bank, N.A., Member FDIC.

The SoFi Credit Card is issued by SoFi Bank, N.A. pursuant to license by Mastercard® International Incorporated.

Loans originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org). Equal Housing Lender.

Brokerage products offered through SoFi Securities LLC, member FINRA/SIPC.

Advisory services are offered through SoFi Wealth LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser. Information as of November 2023 and is subject to change.

1 Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. (CFP Board) owns the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™, CFP® (with plaque design), and CFP® (with flame design) in the U.S., which it awards to individuals who successfully complete CFP Board’s initial and ongoing certification requirements.

2 SoFi requires Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) for conforming conventional home loans with a loan-to-value (LTV) ratio greater than 80%. Other loan types may require different fees or insurance (e.g., VA funding fee, FHA Mortgage Insurance Premiums, etc.). Loan requirements may vary depending on your down payment amount, and minimum down payment varies by loan type.

Posted on

How to give your business an inviting local flair using design

2023-12-05T09:05:00

(BPT) – Think of local businesses that feel connected to your community. What comes to mind? Perhaps a retro diner displaying photos from the town’s earlier days, or a sports bar decked out with memorabilia from the local team? What gives a business a distinctly local flair, and how can you infuse this essence into your own business?

For an effective way to transform a business space, consider starting with one of the largest design opportunities: the walls. Walls often offer the largest amount of surface area in a business space and utilizing them properly can have a huge impact. Wallpaper murals are large-scale wall coverings that are customizable in design. Whether you run a hotel, restaurant, bar or any other business, here are some ways incorporating local-inspired art can make a significant impact on your interior decor and customer experience.

Why local murals matter

Locally inspired wall decor is a trend that’s not only visually striking, but also embraces a business’s location. By opting for these murals, you’re not just adorning walls; you’re curating a personalized experience. Visitors appreciate the authenticity and connection that local flair brings to a space. Celebrate your area by adorning your business with images that showcase the local culture, history and identity. Whether it’s iconic landmarks, historical events or the vibrant local scene, these engaging design elements celebrate the essence of your area.

In a world of ever-increasing competition, businesses, especially in the hospitality industry, need to find ways to stand out and create a memorable experience for their guests. In hotels, restaurants, bars and other hospitality businesses, local murals are a game-changer. They invite guests to immerse themselves in the spirit of the area. From showcasing the scenery to featuring local sports teams, the options are endless.

Here’s how different business types can bring local flair to their establishments:

1. Bars and clubs: Create a trendy and energetic backdrop for your venue with a local-inspired mural in a bar or nightclub. For sports bars or venues, consider featuring local sports team collages or a blueprint of an iconic local stadium. On accent walls, add displays of local memorabilia, such as jerseys.

2. Hotels or Airbnbs: Welcome your guests with inviting hotel wallpaper murals that elevate the ambiance of their stay. These can be featured in hotel lobbies, rooms and more. Local landmarks, famous landscapes, national parks and ski trail maps celebrate the best parts of your hotel’s locale. When selecting furniture, consider sourcing from a local designer or supplier to emphasize the local connection.

3. Restaurants: Whether you own a coffee shop, café or fine dining restaurant, murals can create the ideal ambiance, share your restaurant’s history or highlight the culture behind your cuisine. On other walls, you may want to add pictures of the owners or framed newspaper clips reporting on the business.

4. Museums, points of historic or local interest: Museums can showcase local history and culture, creating an immersive experience for visitors. Antique maps or photo murals can add a touch of historical legacy to your space. Add in framed shadow boxes to display additional local and historical items to engage visitors.

5. Retail: Retail stores can benefit by adding an eye-catching, photo-worthy element to their shop. If you sell locally made products, murals are a great way to highlight their source with pride. This can be done with a map of your city or state, or custom imagery unique to your products, adding a personalized touch that sets you apart.

Breathe life into your business with the vibrant, one-of-a-kind touch of local murals. It’s a transformation that speaks volumes about your business’s personality, adding charm and character that captivates guests and keeps them coming back.

By celebrating the culture and identity of your city or area, you can connect with your customers on a deeper level, enhancing their overall experience and making your business a memorable destination.

For more design inspiration, visit MuralsYourWay.com. While there you can download a free idea book that shows you the exciting ways murals can be used in your business.

Posted on

Are you prepared? Safeguard your business with an effective EAP

2023-12-05T12:01:00

(BPT) – As a business owner, you know it’s best to expect the unexpected. This isn’t just a wise strategy for business deals. It also applies to property emergencies.

Even with your best efforts, you can’t prevent natural disasters or other risks to your establishments. That’s why it’s critical to create an Emergency Action Plan (EAP). An EAP is a set of procedures that outlines how your workplace will respond to various emergencies, including fires, severe weather, chemical spills and floods.

By prioritizing emergency preparedness, you can protect your business and create a safe environment for employees and customers who enter your buildings.

What does an EAP include?

Typically, an EAP includes evacuation procedures, contact information and emergency communication protocols. An EAP is a proactive approach to emergency preparedness that minimizes business disruption and downtime in the event of an emergency.

Knowing how to create an EAP can be difficult, but you can start by conducting a risk assessment. A risk assessment will help identify potential hazards in the workplace, their likelihood, and their potential impact on the business operations. Working with professionals like Rainbow Restoration® can help accurately evaluate risks, taking the guesswork out of disaster preparedness. After an evaluation, the company can also help you create an emergency response plan.

Roles, responsibilities and communication

A successful EAP assigns roles and responsibilities to employees who must implement the plan should an emergency occur.

A great way to define roles and assign responsibilities is to organize staff meetings on emergency preparedness. These meetings can help ensure everyone is well-prepared and knows the part they’ll play in an emergency. This is also the perfect opportunity to outline a chain of command within an organization that can help streamline decision-making during crises.

Once roles and responsibilities have been established, it’s essential to establish communication protocols. Effective communication allows employees to stay in touch, share critical information and enhance emergency response efforts. A communication protocol may include setting up emergency communication devices and developing plans for communication with employees, customers and suppliers.

You can expedite emergency response by downloading a tool like Rainbow Emergency Call app. This mobile app allows you to build digital reports, take live photos of a property during emergencies, and communicate arrival instructions to service professionals. You can download and use this app to immediately access vital resources during critical situations after an emergency response plan is created.

Once you establish an EAP, regularly review and update safety protocols to stay current with evolving best practices and regulations. Also, practicing an emergency action plan at least once a quarter helps ensure everyone is familiar with the procedures.

Preparing your business for fire emergencies and restoration

Fire emergency plans and restoration are critical components of any emergency response plan. In the fall and winter, it’s important for business owners to take the initiative to assess a property’s vulnerability to fire and educate themselves about the risks and recovery processes associated with fire damage. Being prepared in advance can make all the difference in ensuring the safety of employees and customers, as well as the longevity of your business.

Fires damage the structural integrity of your property and pose risks to the health and safety of occupants. The heat generated by fires can weaken your building’s structure, making it unsafe for use, while the smoke and soot can lead to respiratory issues and health problems. Beyond the fire itself, the chemicals used to extinguish fires can also be hazardous if not adequately cleaned up.

Should a fire occur, it’s essential to quickly and safely restore your property. Fire damage can also lead to lost revenue, inventory damage, equipment loss and prolonged downtime, which can financially devastate your businesses. However, when creating a fire restoration plan for your EAP, it’s best to collaborate with a professional to avoid common mistakes that can lead to additional property damage and health hazards.

Common fire damage repair mistakes include waiting too long to start the restoration process, neglecting to address water damage, failing to document damage, and attempting to handle the restoration yourself.

Professional restoration companies, like Rainbow Restoration, have the expertise and experience necessary to assess damage, identify potential hazards and create a safe and efficient restoration plan. They provide rapid response, thoroughly restore and clean your property and document damage. Hiring professionals ensures a smoother recovery process and reduces the risk of additional damage and health hazards.

A commitment to safety is not only a legal obligation but also a moral one. By prioritizing emergency preparedness, business owners and facility managers create a secure environment that promotes the well-being of all those who enter the building. To learn more about how you can collaborate with a professional to create a strong EAP, visit RainbowRestores.com.

Posted on

Holiday Gifts for Foodies

2023-12-05T06:09:00

(BPT) – Some foodies love to eat, and some foodies love to create. For those on your holiday gift list, here are ideas that will excite even the most discerning culinary creator.

For the coffee lover who waxes eloquent about beans

The JURA GIGA 10 offers 35 different brew options, from intense espresso to trendy flat white, plus a full range of genuine cold brew specialties at the touch of a button. It offers a luxury coffee experience, with two bean containers, each with its own ceramic disc grinder, designed for maximum grinding quality and versatility. The touch-operated panorama coffee panel is extremely user-friendly, making it easy to customize your beverage in multiple ways. The stunning design is meant to be shown off in the kitchen or curated coffee bar.

For the perfectionist chef

A few degrees can make the difference between a juicy filet and a ruined steak. The CDN Lollipop Thermometer is an advanced model designed for perfectionist home chefs. The 1.5mm thin tip is ideal for even the thinnest cuts of meat, and it’s incredibly accurate to one-tenth of a degree, helping cook an expensive Wagyu filet to perfection.

For the chef who wants to take the show on the road

The Tramontina GURU is a portable induction cooktop that works anywhere with a power outlet — for wandering chefs or those who want to expand or upgrade cooking options at home. This lightweight, high-performance cooktop features a built-in precision scale, safety features, and connectivity to a smartphone or tablet for access to curated recipes and video instruction. The GURU starter set includes cookware and online resources for recipes, techniques, and nutritional information.

For hard-core bakers and bread makers

Serious bakers and bread makers know that the Ankarsrum Assistent Original Mixer is the gold standard for producing the best dough. This versatile Swedish-made mixer is renowned for power and long-term reliability. Its unique kneading motion produces pro-level results, whether you’re making a cake, whipping a meringue, or preparing multiple loaves of bread at a time. With 14 vibrant colors, there’s a perfect Ankarsrum mixer for any kitchen.

For iced tea fanatics

Iced tea lovers will wonder how they survived before the Capresso Iced Tea Select. It brews an entire pitcher of plain or flavored iced tea at the press of a button. The reusable filter holds loose tea or tea bags, and brew strength is easy to customize. Add fresh or frozen fruit for refreshing tea beverages all year round.

Posted on

Transforming the gift-giving game

2023-12-04T23:01:00

(BPT) – In a world where toy trends seem to change faster than a child can unwrap a gift, parents, guardians and gift-givers are constantly on the lookout for the perfect present that will both excite and enrich a child’s life. According to Fidelity Investments’® 2023 Gifting Study, a surprising revelation has emerged: a significant majority of parents are not only open to but prefer contributions to their child’s college fund over traditional holiday gifts.

The study, which surveyed a diverse group of parents and guardians across the country, found that a staggering 79% of respondents would welcome contributions to their child’s college savings account in lieu of the usual array of toys and gadgets. Even more compelling, 2 in 3 would even prefer this forward-thinking approach to gift-giving. This sheds light on a growing awareness among parents about the long-term benefits of investing in their child’s education from an early age.

Gift-giving for kids has traditionally revolved around the latest toys, games and electronic devices. However, the rising cost of education has prompted a shift in parental priorities. Many parents are recognizing the importance of building a financial foundation for their child’s future, and what better way to do that than by contributing to a 529 college savings account?

Tony Durkan, vice president, head of 529 relationship management at Fidelity Investments, emphasizes the developmental benefits behind these trends. “Children often receive so much in the way of material possessions, but contributing to their education sends a powerful message about the value of long-term goals and planning for the future. It instills a sense of responsibility and demonstrates that education is a priority for the entire family.”

While traditional toys and games certainly have their place in a child’s life, the gift of education is timeless and enduring. Grandparents, aunts, uncles and family friends now have an opportunity to contribute not only to the joy of the present moment but also to a child’s lifelong journey of learning and growth. Fidelity has an easy-to-use gifting tool that ensures a seamless experience and recent legislation has also made it even more flexible for friends and family to give to a 529 account without the worry of a child’s future education plan now that some funds can be transferred into retirement savings like a Roth IRA for that child.

So, with so many gifting occasions throughout the year, consider making a lasting impact with a gift that truly keeps on giving — a contribution to a child’s college fund. It’s a choice that resonates with the spirit of the season, embodying the essence of generosity, and a commitment to shaping a brighter future for the next generation.

For more information about the gifting study and 529 college savings accounts, visit Go.Fidelity.com/GiftingStudy23.

Posted on

Expert tips for improving your children’s eye health this winter

2023-12-05T06:01:01

(BPT) – No matter the season, playing outside was the apex of childhood fun. Whether it was playing catch with a neighbor or building a fort or top-secret club house — spending the entire day outdoors was what kids did. However, things are different now, and with winter on the horizon, it’s easy for kids to stay indoors and glued to a screen or a book. Not only do these activities keep kids from getting some exercise, but it can also impact their eye health.

Did you know too much time doing “near work” — looking at things close up — can lead to myopia? Myopia, or nearsightedness, is a disease affecting the ability to clearly see objects that are far away. Good vision is crucial to children doing their best in school and experiencing success as they grow and learn, but myopia is increasing rapidly, with 50% of the population being at risk by 2050. But the good news is, you can take proactive steps to help prevent myopia and limit its impact on your child’s vision. Even better, those steps can involve revisiting your favorite winter memories from childhood with your own kids.

“Children with myopia are at greater risk for sight-threatening diseases later in life. For example, a child with medium to high myopia is five times more likely to develop cataracts and glaucoma,” said Dr. Millicent Knight, OD, senior vice president, EssilorLuxottica.”But you can make a difference and be proactive now. For example, take advantage of the opportunity to use your health benefits by the end of the year to bring your child in for a comprehensive eye exam.”

The Global Myopia Awareness Coalition (GMAC) offers these tips for improving your child’s eye health.

Create a sight sanctuary

Outdoor play offers countless benefits, including eye health. Studies show children who spend just one hour outdoors each day can reduce their risk of developing myopia by 14%. Being outdoors and focusing on objects in the distance gives children a chance to relax their eye muscles, especially after hours of staring at screens.

Even when it’s chilly, bundle kids up and get them outside to give their eyes a much-needed break. To encourage outdoor play, create a “sight sanctuary” — an outdoor play space dedicated to building snow forts or snow people, playing winter sports, having snowball fights or sledding, where kids can take a break from screen time that can contribute to myopia.

You can instill excitement about the outdoors and your sight sanctuary with holiday gifts like a new sled, ice skates or snowshoes. Make it a family snow day with a “snow person kit” complete with scarves, big button eyes and carrot noses for everyone to pitch in and build a snow family.

Limit screen time

You can also track kids’ screen time to ensure that they get plenty of breaks from near work. Most Wi-Fi systems allow parents to pause or limit screen time. Offer alternative activities — especially if it’s too cold or icy to play outdoors — like baking, charades or dance parties.

See an eye care professional

To safeguard your child’s eye health, it’s vital to make annual comprehensive eye exams a priority. While pediatrician vision screenings can be helpful, they miss up to 75% of children with vision problems — and provide less than 4% of the information obtained in a comprehensive exam by an eye care professional, according to the American Optometric Association.

Eye doctors use specialized equipment to capture a thorough picture of your child’s eye health and vision to spot and diagnose eye diseases like myopia early, making treatment more effective. While visiting the eye doctor, ask about new myopia treatment options available in your area, including:

  • Orthokeratology lenses: Gas permeable lenses worn while asleep and removed when awake create a temporary change in cornea shape and simultaneously slow low-to-moderate myopia conditions so that glasses aren’t needed during the day.
  • Contact lenses: Soft multifocal or dual-focus contact lenses — typically used to improve near vision in people over 40 — have been shown to correct myopic vision in children while simultaneously slowing myopia progression by decreasing eye growth.
  • Low-dose atropine eye drops: Atropine dilates the pupil and relaxes the eyes’ focusing mechanism. Clinical trials indicate low-dose atropine eye drops can slow myopia progression in children.
  • Glasses: For children who may not be ready for contact lenses, myopia-control glasses are another option. Talk to your eyecare provider about the best solution for your child.

Need to use health benefits by year’s end? Now’s the perfect time to schedule an appointment with an eye care professional. Visit MyopiaAwareness.org for more information and resources, including a doctor discussion guide to aid your child’s upcoming eye appointment.

Posted on

Food for all: How to fight food insecurity and improve access to better nutrition

2023-12-04T11:41:00

(BPT) – Food shouldn’t be an impossible choice. Everyone needs nutritious foods to thrive. Yet, new data show food and nutrition insecurity are on the rise. According to the recent U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) data, over 44 million people in the U.S., including 13.4 million children, struggle with food insecurity.

Food insecurity — not having enough food for an active, healthy lifestyle — can impact anyone. Regardless of age, race, ethnicity, gender, ability, geography or national origin, hunger is universal. People are facing hunger in every county in the U.S., including many students on college campuses nationwide. This is according to Carrie Hamady, EdD, MS, RD, LD, Chair of the Department of Public and Allied Health at Bowling Green State University and an ambassador to National Dairy Council. Hamady points out that, “students should not have to choose between tuition or nutrition, families shouldn’t have to decide between the gas bill or groceries and seniors shouldn’t be forced to pick medicine over a meal.”

The interplay of food insecurity and nutrition

Related to food insecurity is nutrition insecurity, when someone does not have consistent and equitable access to nutritious, safe and affordable foods and beverages that promote well-being, reduce risk of disease and help manage disease. This is of particular concern among racial and ethnic minority populations, lower income populations, and rural and remote populations who may already be at risk for health disparities.

According to the USDA Actions on Nutrition Security, there is a strong association between food insecurity and poor nutrition. Those who report being most food insecure are also at a higher risk of developing diet-related diseases such as obesity, diabetes and high blood pressure.

“Being well-nourished matters whether you are 2 or 82 and should be a non-issue in a country known as the breadbasket of the world,” said Clancy Harrison, MS, RDN, founder of Food Dignity and an ambassador to National Dairy Council. “In fact, many young children don’t have access to nutrient-rich foods like dairy foods needed to support their growth and brain development.”

Harrison points out adults also struggle with food and nutrition insecurity, impacting their health outcomes. “For adults, nutrition can significantly impact management of chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease,” added Harrison. “Proper nutrition also helps maintain muscle and bone to help people thrive into their golden years.”

One key strategy to address nutrition insecurity

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer to ending food and nutrition insecurity in the U.S. However, there is one food group that may help close the gap.

Dairy foods are a powerhouse of essential vitamins and minerals, providing unique benefits that can help improve nutrition security and reduce risk of chronic disease like type 2 diabetes and heart disease. According to National Dairy Council, milk, including lactose-free milk, provides 13 essential nutrients: protein, calcium, potassium, phosphorus, zinc, selenium, iodine and vitamins A, D, B2, B3, B5 and B12.

Of note, dairy foods are a key source of three of the four nutrients of public health concern — calcium, potassium and vitamin D. These nutrients are crucial for overall health, especially for vulnerable populations, including children, pregnant people and older adults.

Even those who are lactose intolerant can benefit nutritionally from culturally relevant options like lactose-free dairy milk. And there are other dairy foods with lower lactose. For example, natural cheeses contain minimal lactose and Greek- and Icelandic-style yogurts have less lactose plus live and active cultures that help break down lactose, making it easier to digest.

Given their nutritional profile, dairy foods offer tremendous value to food assistance programs like WIC, the National School Breakfast and Lunch Programs, SNAP and food banks nationwide when it comes to helping bridge nutritional gaps. Plus dairy foods pair well with other under-consumed food groups like vegetables and whole grains.

Another benefit is that the dairy food group offers many affordable options. One serving of dairy milk costs about 22 cents. Dairy foods offer an economical source of nutrition, making them an ideal candidate to help address health equity and improve food and nutrition insecurity.

Ensuring dairy can meet food and nutrition security needs for all

Despite the potential of dairy foods to help address hunger and nutrition, milk remains one of the most requested and least donated foods at food banks. That’s why the dairy community has long partnered with Feeding America, the nation’s largest network of food banks providing food to Americans in emergency need and on an ongoing basis. Increasing access to milk, lactose-free dairy milk and other dairy foods can make a difference to millions of people who rely on hunger systems to nourish their families.

There are many ways you can help ensure your neighbors are nourished. Simply raising awareness of food and nutrition insecurity is a start. You can also volunteer your time and/or donate to your local food bank or pantry to help nourish those in need.

If you or someone you know is experiencing food insecurity, visit Nutrition.gov/Topics/Food-Security-And-Access to learn about food assistance programs available to you. For more on National Dairy Council, visit usdairy.com/nationaldairycouncil.