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Enjoy a safer Halloween: How to keep medicines and supplements out of kids’ reach

2025-10-24T10:01:00

(BPT) – Halloween and the winter holidays are a fun, festive time of year when candy and other sweet treats appear everywhere — at home, in school and at parties and other seasonal gatherings. Because candy is so visually tempting, it’s especially important for parents and caregivers to make sure that any medications, vitamins or supplements that could be mistaken for candy are stored safely: up and away, out of sight and reach of young children.

To young kids, some medicines look just like the treats they enjoy during the holidays. Gummy vitamins and colorful pills often resemble candy, and liquid medicines can look like soda or juice. It’s critical to store and use these products safely, especially during this high-risk season.

Approximately 35,000 young children are brought to the emergency room each year because they got into medicines that were left within their reach. To help prevent these kinds of incidents, the Up and Away Campaign offers practical tips for parents and caregivers to keep kids safer during Halloween and year-round.

Store medicines up and away

Choose a high, secure spot in your home that children can’t reach or see, and store all your medicines, vitamins and supplements — especially those in gummy form — in that place, even between doses. If you carry medicine in your purse, bag, pocket or pill organizer, make sure to keep it out of sight and reach of young kids.

Remind all babysitters, houseguests and visitors to follow the same precautions when they are in your home.

Don’t leave medicine out between doses

If you or your child is ill and needs a dose every few hours, it can be tempting to leave the medicine in reach on a kitchen counter or a sick child’s bedside table. Put it up and away instead to avoid unintentional overdoses.

Keep medicines in child-resistant containers

Always relock the safety cap on medicine bottles every time you close them. If a bottle has a locking cap that turns, twist it until you hear the “click,” or until you can’t twist it anymore. If you must put medicines in other containers, such as pill organizers, check to see if they have child-resistant features. Many do not and can be easily opened by young children.

Teach your children about medicine safety

It’s important to teach your children what medicine is and why you or a trusted caregiver must be the one to give it to them. Never tell children that medicine is “candy,” even if they don’t enjoy taking it.

Be prepared for an emergency

Call Poison Help at 800-222-1222 right away if you think your child might have gotten into a medicine, vitamin or supplement, even if you are not completely sure. Save the number as a contact in your phone so you have it ready in case of an emergency.

For more tools and information to help safeguard children, visit UpandAway.org.

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4 expert tips for a healthier grocery store run

2025-10-24T10:37:00

(BPT) – Have you ever returned from a grocery run, unloaded your bags and questioned some of your choices? It’s time for a new, more strategic approach to your shopping trips. What you put in your cart will feed your whole family, so better health starts with the selections you make at the store. Smart shopping comes down to planning, and utilizing the store layout to your advantage, as well as education — about food labels and the companies you buy from.

Here are four simple ways to make every grocery trip a little healthier for your family.

1. Plan ahead

Planning meals for the week is the smartest way to shop — it helps avoid impulse purchases and ensures you have everything needed for balanced, wholesome meals. Sketching out weekly meals ahead makes shopping and cooking easier, helping you focus on including plenty of protein, fruits, veggies and whole grains in your plan.

Take a quick inventory before heading to the store and make a list of what you already have — and what you actually need — to avoid getting too much or too little of anything. Once at the store, stick to your list! Don’t be distracted by overly processed, salty or sweet items that may tempt you, especially near the register.

2. Read labels carefully and do your research

Learning what food labels really mean helps you make better choices — and understand how farming practices can affect your diet. For example, many foods claim to be “organic,” but without the USDA Organic seal, there is no guarantee. The seal ensures the product was grown or produced with at least 95% organic ingredients and without unapproved synthetic substances.

When it comes to poultry, look for the “No Antibiotics Ever” (NAE) label, which means antibiotics were never used during the animal’s lifetime. Labels that simply say “antibiotic free” don’t guarantee antibiotics were never used.

Why does this matter? A recent study conducted out of Carleton University raises new questions about antibiotic use in animal agriculture and its potential link to human health. The research found that ionophores — a class of antibiotics long thought to be safe to use in animals — may contribute to making medically important drugs for humans less effective.

“One class of antibiotics commonly used in agriculture, known as ionophores, were long considered safe to use with poultry, but this new study changes that,” said Dr. Alex Wong, who led this research at Carleton University. “When ionophores are used, they can increase resistance in bacteria, which would make that bacteria harder to kill by medicines. This demonstrated impact of antibiotic use can increase the risk of bacterial resistance spreading from animal agriculture to human healthcare systems.”

Perdue Farms has remained committed to its trailblazing No Antibiotics Ever (NAE) promise since 2016, eliminating the use of all antibiotics, including ionophores, from its production. Instead, Perdue supports flock health through natural supplements like oregano and thyme, and by focusing on animal care practices that help chicken thrive without antibiotics.

3. Seek brands committed to transparency

As the antibiotic issue shows, it’s important to choose brands that are open and transparent about their ingredients and processes. Today’s brands all have websites where you can find information about their approaches to food production, ingredient sourcing, animal welfare, processes and quality assurance procedures to help you make informed decisions.

An easy way to learn more is to visit a brand’s corporate responsibility webpage. For example, Corporate.PerdueFarms.com/responsibility shares how Perdue ensures its animals are cared for responsibly and how its food meets the highest standards for safety and quality.

4. Shop the perimeter of your store for building blocks

Most grocery stores are arranged with fresh produce, proteins and baked goods along the outer aisles. Build your meals around the fresh staples found here whenever possible.

Think fresh, organically raised chicken breast with salad and a side of whole-grain pasta. Or potatoes, green beans and air fryer-ready frozen chicken filets.

The way you shop shapes the way you cook and eat each week. Using these tips, you can transform your grocery run into a tool for supporting both your family’s health and a more responsible food system.

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Mayflower Ushers in the End of Moving Guilt Trips

2025-10-22T09:01:00

(BPT) – Why more people say it’s time to hire the pros

For decades, moving meant calling in favors. Pizza, beer and guilt-tripped friends were the currency of choice. But times are changing.

According to a 2025 study by UniGroup — parent company of Mayflower — nearly half of Americans (44%) say there’s a time in life to hand the heavy lifting to professionals. The nationwide survey of 1,000 adults found that while DIY moves have their place, many now view hiring professional movers as a smart investment in safety, time and peace of mind.

After all, friends aren’t trained movers. They don’t have the equipment, insurance or muscle memory to protect your belongings. And frankly, they deserve a toast rather than a strained back.

From Obligation to Appreciation

The research revealed a clear shift in mindset. These days, instead of bribing friends with pizza, more movers are celebrating milestones the right way.

Hiring professionals means your loved ones can show up to celebrate, not carry boxes on your behalf. It turns moving day into a moment worth savoring — one that’s less about stress and more about new beginnings.

When you choose Mayflower, that celebration starts the moment your movers arrive. You’re not just changing addresses; you’re reclaiming moving day as something joyful.

Milestone Moves That Matter

A Growing Family
When diapers, naps and feedings fill your schedule, moving should be the least of your worries. Professional movers help new or expectant parents focus on what matters most, ensuring their boxes arrive as intended while taking care of the heavy lifting.

A New Job or Promotion
Starting a new role often means relocating fast. With Mayflower’s full-service options — from car shipping to custom crating — your belongings arrive on time, leaving you to focus on onboarding rather than unpacking.

Retirement
Downsizing or relocating for retirement? This chapter should feel relaxing, not risky. Movers can handle packing, debris removal and storage, helping you transition into a simpler, more comfortable lifestyle.

Protecting What’s Priceless
Some moves come with heirlooms, antiques or fine art — pieces that deserve expert care. Mayflower professionals use specialty packing, custom crating and Full-Value Protection coverage to safeguard your most valuable items. Because peace of mind is priceless.

How Mayflower Makes Transitions Smooth

  • Full or Partial Packing and Unpacking: Skip the endless boxes and focus on your next chapter.
  • Specialty Moving and Crating: From artwork to antiques, your valuables are handled with care.
  • Car Shipping and Storage: We manage the details your friends shouldn’t — and can’t — be asked to.
  • Move Coordination: A dedicated pro keeps you informed every step of the way.

Turning Bribes into Rewards
Mayflower makes it so you can still celebrate with pizza and beer — guilt-free. Once the boxes are in place, treat yourself to a curated meal, raise a glass and enjoy the moment. No sweat. No stress. No awkward favors. Just good vibes and a fresh start.

Toast to a New Beginning
Life’s biggest transitions deserve more than a group text and stack of pizza boxes. They deserve care, gratitude and expertise.

In fact, 47% of people say they’d now decline a “free pizza for moving help” offer, often citing health, mobility or safety concerns.

Mayflower makes it easy to move free of nagging guilt. Its pros bring the strength, skill and professionalism. You bring the excitement for what’s ahead. Together, you’ll make your move feel like the start of something worth celebrating. Explore the survey and get the ball rolling with a free quote.

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The spirit of Día de los Muertos: Building an ofrenda to honor loved ones

2025-10-21T11:41:00

(BPT) – Every November, millions of families across Mexico and the United States prepare for one of the most meaningful celebrations in Latino culture — Día de los Muertos. Also known as the Day of the Dead, the celebration is far more than a holiday; it’s a time to remember and honor loved ones who have passed.

At the heart of this ancient tradition lies the ofrenda, a carefully constructed altar that serves as both tribute and invitation. These beautiful displays aren’t mere decorations, but sacred spaces designed to welcome the spirits of loved ones back for a joyful reunion.

When creating your own ofrenda at home, start by including items that represent the four essential elements of life: water, fire, earth and wind. These components come together to guide and comfort the spirits on their journey. Whether you create an elaborate ofrenda or keep it small, these elements are essential in welcoming and cherishing passed loved ones.

Water: Quenching the spirit’s thirst

Water is offered to quench the thirst of souls returning after a long journey, and many families honor this tradition by placing their loved one’s favorite beverages on the ofrenda. For Mexican and Mexican American families, this often includes beers like Modelo — a gesture that reflects personal memories and cherished traditions.

Born in Mexico a century ago, Modelo Especial has been part of family gatherings across generations, making it a natural choice for ofrendas where families seek to honor their ancestors who emulated the Mark of a Fighter and recreate the moments they once shared. Whether it’s a cold bottle placed alongside fresh water and traditional aguas frescas, or raised in a toast to honor the departed, Modelo serves as both an offering and bridge — connecting families to their heritage while inviting loved ones to share one more drink across the veil between worlds.

“We’re honored that families include Modelo in their ofrendas, making us a part of a heartfelt and meaningful tradition,” said Logan Jensen, vice president of Brand Marketing, Modelo. “We look forward to being a part of the celebration as generations come together to honor loved ones for years to come.”

Close up of a Modelo bottle, a Día de los Muertos mask and food on an alter.

Fire: Lighting the way for remembrance

Fire is represented by candles, whose flames light the way for visiting spirits. Each candle is often dedicated to a specific loved one, illuminating their path and signaling that they are remembered and cherished. The gentle glow infuses the ofrenda with warmth and hope, embodying the enduring light of family and memory.

Earth: Nourishing connections

Earth is celebrated through marigold flowers, or cempasúchil, and traditional Mexican foods such as pan de muerto. The vibrant orange petals of cempasúchil are believed to attract spirits with their color and scent, while the sweet bread is both a treat for the souls and a symbol of the cycle of life. Together, these earthly offerings ground the celebration in the flavors, scents and beauty of Mexican heritage.

Wind: The breath of life

Wind finds form in papel picado, the intricately cut tissue paper banners that sway above the ofrenda. Their delicate movement in the breeze is said to represent the presence of spirits and the ephemeral nature of life. These colorful decorations add a festive spirit, turning remembrance into a celebration of life’s fleeting beauty.

With these four elements combined, an ofrenda becomes a vibrant reminder of heritage, legacy and tradition. So, raise a glass of Modelo and keep the memories alive. For more info on Modelo, visit ModeloUSA.com.

Please drink responsibly. Learn more at Responsibility.org.

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How to elevate your home using nature-inspired colors

2025-10-22T05:01:00

(BPT) – The desire to bring the outdoors in continues to inspire homeowners and designers alike. Natural, earthy neutrals and a variety of green shades are key to this trend as it encompasses more areas of the home. In fact, according to independent research among homeowners, the vast majority of consumers (88%) are interested in color palettes other than white and chrome for their next kitchen or bath remodel, with a preference toward neutrals and earth tones like greens.

So if stark white kitchens and baths are no longer trending, how can you celebrate natural neutrals and greens in these spaces? To help you get started, Kohler now offers a variety of bath and kitchen essentials in these colors, merging modern and vintage aesthetics to bring a sense of tranquility and timeless style into the busiest rooms of your home.

“The healing power of nature helps explain why we’re drawn to these colors,” said Alex Yacavone, Senior Manager at Kohler, Industrial Design Studio. “Greens and earthy neutrals effectively create a serene, soothing environment to elevate any room.”

Neutral elements for a timeless, nature-inspired style

When you look at what creates timeless interior design, it’s clear that it’s rooted in thoughtful materials, classic silhouettes and livable color. Elements of nature, paired with classic design details, ensure these spaces remain relevant and comforting over time.

Born out of an appreciation for craftsmanship from previous centuries, bath and kitchen options from Kohler embrace the quiet beauty of neutrals that can make an elevated statement in their own right.

Looking for a stylish bathroom addition? The Artifacts Cast Iron Free Standing Bath in Dune is inspired by the charm of turn-of-the-century homes, like a vintage treasure rediscovered but enhanced by the comforts of modern design — such as a gently curved rim for added neck support. You can also customize your Artifacts bath with a set of ornate ball-and-claw feet.

Creating a stunning focal point inspired by studio pottery, the Derring Oval Sink in Bourbon Rutile celebrates the beauty and authenticity of handcrafted ceramics. Each sink is finished with unique artisanal glazes that produce fascinating surface effects, with a hand-carved texture that accentuates the glaze’s subtle tonal variations.

If you’ve always wanted a sink that embraces farmhouse style, the streamlined apron-front Whitehaven Cast Iron in Truffle is perfect for remodeling projects. The Self-Trimming design requires only a rough cut to new or existing 30-inch standard cabinetry for simple installation and beautiful results. Crafted from enameled cast iron, the sink resists chipping, cracking or burning for years of beauty and reliable performance.

In exploring nature, people are drawn not only to the earthy neutrals that bring calm and familiarity to interiors, but also to the pops of green that breathe life into a space without overwhelming it.

Lasting shades of green

With the Kohler Heritage Greens collection, you can transform your kitchen and bath using bold, nature-inspired hues. This collection is inspired by carefully curated iconic greens from the Kohler archives, brought back to life in current kitchen and bath products. Inspired by the beauty of the outdoors, these shades are perfectly suited for classic or contemporary designs, and will blend effortlessly with your existing decor:

  • Fresh Green (1971) is a lively shade reminiscent of a spring garden, ideal for adding bright energy to kitchens and bathrooms.
  • Aspen Green (1978) captures serene tones of mountain pines for a calming color that works as a neutral or makes a statement in any space.
  • Teal (1987) is a deep, dramatic green/blue blend that infuses striking, nature-inspired character into your design vision.

Bringing greens into the kitchen or bathroom allows you to experiment with nature’s neutral hues that pair with a wide range of design aesthetics. Kohler’s Heritage colors showcase the versatility of green by offering a serene, calming atmosphere with Aspen Green and a deeper, moodier tone with Teal. The differences in hue demonstrate how green carries a lasting appeal, showcasing how green can sit in modern and classic spaces alike.

Vintage country sink with green counter tops in kitchen.

Searching for a piece that draws inspiration from traditional furniture and architectural elements? The Memoirs Stately Pedestal Sink in Teal offers crisp, clean lines evoking the splendor of fine antiques.

Similarly, the Memoirs Stately Toilet in Aspen Green features the elegant architectural look of the Memoirs collection along with vintage-inspired Stately design, combining performance with traditional style.

Neutral, nature-inspired colors and finishes can lead to grounded spaces that feel connected to the natural world, evoking a fresh, timeless appeal that’s versatile and welcoming. Come home to the colors of nature at Kohler.com.

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5 expert tips to score the best health insurance

2025-10-22T02:01:00

(BPT) – Open enrollment is here, which means it’s time to review your health coverage options for 2026 and make changes if you need to. With a little prep, choosing a plan through Medicare, your employer or the Affordable Care Act Marketplace doesn’t have to be stressful.

“Health insurance jargon can be confusing, but the details matter,” said Cindy George, MPH, senior personal finance editor at GoodRx. “Taking a little time to understand how premiums, deductibles, networks and medication coverage work for you can help you save money and land a plan that fits your needs.”

If you’re ready to shop smart, start with George’s five expert tips:

Keep your information current

If you use the ACA Marketplace or programs like Medicaid, CHIP or Medicare’s Extra Help, update your income and household details each year during open enrollment. This can change what you qualify for and how much you save.

If you have an employer plan, make sure your dependents and beneficiaries are correct and report life changes like marriage, a new baby or a move, so your coverage stays up to date.

Check your medication coverage

Don’t assume your prescription coverage will be the same as last year. Plans often update which medicines they cover and how much you’ll pay. If you have Medicare Advantage or a Part D plan, double-check that your prescriptions are still covered. A quick review now can prevent costly surprises.

“Put your most important prescriptions at the center of your plan search,” says George. “If a plan doesn’t cover medication you need or moves it to a higher price level, you can check the GoodRx cash price. In many cases, that price may be much lower than your insurance copay.”

Couple sitting at their kitchen table using a laptop to source options for medication.

Think beyond insurance

Insurance alone may not provide the medication coverage you need. GoodRx research shows that plans can exclude some medications entirely or add restrictions like prior authorization. It often helps to compare your copay with prices available outside of insurance. For example, resources like GoodRx let you compare cash prices and savings options for both brand name and generic medications. GoodRx is not insurance, but it can often beat your copay price, so it may be worth factoring that into your plan choice and overall budget.

Adult daughter and her father at kitchen table reviewing medication options.

Don’t auto-renew without reviewing

Insurance coverage shouldn’t be a set-it-and-forget-it process. Because costs and coverage shift every year, it pays to shop around. Letting your plan roll over without a second look could mean missing out on better coverage or lower costs.

“Even if you like your current plan, compare before you renew,” George says. “Check the deductible, out-of-pocket maximum and whether your regular doctors and medicines are covered to avoid surprises next year.”

Use comparison tools like a pro

Free tools can make plan shopping faster and clearer during open enrollment. Use Medicare Plan Finder to compare Medicare Advantage and Part D options, HealthCare.gov or your state marketplace to review ACA plans and see your estimated savings, and GoodRx to cross-check prescription prices so you can better estimate your total yearly costs.

“Don’t wait until the end of the open enrollment period,” George said. “Start now, understand your options and choose a plan with confidence.”

Older couple in a booth in a restaurant with a laptop reviewing their medication options online.

Ready to get started? Visit GoodRx.com to find resources to help you navigate open enrollment and explore savings on prescription medications.

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Heritage is in: OshKosh’s most iconic pieces, reissued for today’s kids

2025-10-21T08:31:00

(BPT) – Some holiday gifts sparkle for a season. Others last a lifetime. This year, OshKosh B’gosh is making sure parents can give both with the launch of the OshKosh Reissued Collection, a nostalgic assortment that brings back the brand’s most iconic pieces, reimagined for babies and toddlers (up to 5T).

The 130-year-old heritage brand, known for its World’s Best Overalls, is celebrating its milestone anniversary by looking to the past to shape the future. From playgrounds to family portraits, OshKosh has defined childhood style for generations. Now, it’s inviting a new generation of parents to share that same legacy, reimagined for today, and ready to unwrap this holiday season.

With archival prints, heritage silhouettes, and the return of the Josh B’gosh — OshKosh’s hickory-clad bear first introduced in 1998 — these updated pieces combine nostalgic design with modern fabrics, colors, and fits to create new memories while honoring timeless ones.

Highlights of the collection include:

  • The Hickory Stripe: A signature of early 20th-century workwear and OshKosh childhoods everywhere, now softer and stretchier than ever. Available in overalls, dresses, and jeans.
  • The Return of Josh B’gosh: Everyone’s favorite ’90s bear is back and as adorable as ever, starring on plush sweatshirts and as a velvety-soft teddy bear, ready to be wrapped up and loved all over again.
  • The World’s Best Overalls™: Nostalgic ’80s and ’90s corduroy prints, including Nutcracker, teddy bear, and train motifs, reintroduced in brighter, bolder hues. A timeless favorite, refreshed for a new generation.

The timing is perfect. With nostalgia rising in favor among today’s shoppers, the OshKosh Reissued Collection hits the sweet spot between cultural relevance and emotional resonance. It also connects with the holiday spirit, when families look to trade up for meaningful, heirloom-quality gifts.

The OshKosh Reissued Collection will be available at OshKosh.com and select stores while supplies last. Because when it comes to holiday gifting, some traditions are worth repeating.

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Don’t Fall for It: Stay Scam-Smart This Season

2025-10-21T08:01:00

(BPT) – As the air turns crisp and the holidays approach, scammers are gearing up for their busiest time of year. From fake shopping deals to AI-powered deception, fraudsters are finding new ways to take advantage of distracted consumers. According to new data from Mastercard and The Harris Poll, nearly eight in ten Americans (78%) say they’re more concerned about cybersecurity risks than they were two years ago, and 72% admit it’s harder to protect their digital lives than their physical homes.

This Cybersecurity Awareness Month, Mastercard shares tips to help you stay secure while you enjoy the season’s simple pleasures.

Don’t Get Lost in the Corn Maze of Panic

Scammers thrive on confusion and urgency, just like getting turned around in a corn maze. They’ll try to rush you with fake emergencies, “limited-time” offers, or threats to your accounts. But instead of panicking, pause and find your way out with a clear head. Take a moment to verify the situation with a trusted source. Fraudsters often play on emotions, especially through fake online romances or impersonators pretending to be loved ones in distress. If someone you haven’t met in person asks for money, especially via gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency, don’t fall for it.

Bobbing for Alerts, Not Surprises

Just like bobbing for apples, you want to stay alert and ready. Turn on transaction notifications so you’re instantly aware of any unusual activity. Make it a habit to review your financial statements regularly; think of it like checking your pantry before a big fall feast. Consider setting up credit monitoring services to catch suspicious activity early. A little vigilance now can save you from a rotten surprise later.

Patch Up Problems Before They Spoil the Season

If you spot something suspicious, don’t let it sit like an unpicked pumpkin. Act quickly: Contact your bank to secure your accounts, file a police report, and report the fraud to the FTC, or your local authority. If unauthorized payments appear, request a freeze or reversal right away — many banks can stop fraudulent transfers if caught in time.

Wrap Up with Zero Liability Warmth

Just like layering up for a chilly day, Mastercard’s Zero Liability protection adds a layer of comfort. You won’t be held responsible for unauthorized transactions, as long as you report them promptly and take reasonable care of your card. Whether you’re shopping in-store, online, over the phone, or at the ATM, your Mastercard has your back. It’s a cozy kind of confidence that cash and checks just can’t match.

Savor the Season, Scam-Free

Whether you’re picking apples, wandering through a pumpkin patch, or browsing fall sales from your couch, these tips will help you stay secure. So go ahead, crunch those leaves, not your finances. With a little awareness and a few smart habits, you can enjoy everything autumn has to offer with peace of mind.

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Annual enrollment tips: Selecting the best financial benefits for you

2025-10-20T13:43:01

(BPT) – It’s that time of year again — open enrollment period, when you can review, select or change your workplace benefits. For a number of weeks each year, you can make selections or modifications to your health insurance, retirement plans or other employee benefits for the next year. These choices can impact your finances and give you peace of mind around safeguarding your family’s health. Because changes you make now can be binding for 2026 (outside of qualifying life events), it’s important to select the right benefits for your unique situation.

This is a good time to step back and view the big picture. The driving force behind choosing the right workplace benefits should be your needs and values. What is most important for you and your family’s overall well-being? What events might come up next year? Are you starting a family, looking for a home or facing medical expenses? Choosing benefits that support you throughout these situations can impact your happiness and well-being.

Here are major benefit categories to consider.

Health insurance options

Sorting through health insurance plans can seem overwhelming. It may be tempting to simply choose whatever option is closest to what you already have. But if you have a new employer, if anything has changed in your family — or you simply want to better understand your options — review these factors:

  • Cost: Compare annual premiums, deductibles, copays/coinsurance and OOP (out-of-pocket) maximums in each plan. Ask yourself: How much did you pay in premiums this year? How many trips to the doctor, hospital or emergency room did your family make? Do you anticipate major health care needs in 2026? These answers will help you make informed decisions.
  • Plan type: You may be presented with an alphabet soup of options: HMOs (Health Maintenance Organizations), PPOs (Preferred Provider Organizations) and HDHPs (High-Deductible Health Plans), among others. Each plan type has pros and cons. For example, one advantage of an HDHP is pairing it with a Health Savings Account (HSA), which offers tax-advantaged ways to save and pay for qualified medical expenses; and your employer might contribute to it on your behalf, too.
  • Plan networks: Each insurance plan has a group of providers contracted to offer services at a certain cost. The network size and accessibility of providers can affect costs and the ease of getting appointments.
  • Your family’s health needs: How well has your past coverage suited you and your family? What changes might be necessary? Would you rather pay higher costs upfront and lower costs for service, or the other way around? With the HDHP example, you’ll potentially pay less for premiums, and you can use your HSA to help offset higher service costs.

Retirement benefits

If you have access to a workplace-sponsored retirement plan, this can be a great way to help you plan for the future. In most cases, these are defined contribution plans like a 401(k), where you dedicate a percentage of your paycheck to flow directly into your retirement account.

Many employers offer a match, which means they’ll contribute the same amount as you, up to a certain percentage. If your employer offers a 3% match, try to contribute at least 3% of your salary to your retirement savings, or you’re leaving free money on the table.

Student debt assistance

Many employers now offer two versions of repayment assistance for student debt:

  • Student debt direct: Your employer matches a percentage of your loan payments, which helps you pay down debt faster.
  • Student debt retirement: Your employer matches your payments with contributions to your workplace savings account.

“Student debt assistance is a newer benefit many employees may not know about,” said Kirsten Hunter Peterson, vice president, Thought Leadership, Fidelity Investments. “This offers a real advantage for anyone still paying student debt, freeing up money for anything from building emergency savings or making a home down payment to starting your own family.”

Ask your human resources department if your workplace offers this benefit.

Additional benefits

Many employers offer financial benefits like emergency savings programs, life insurance and disability insurance to help protect your finances if the unexpected happens. These benefits can make a real difference if they’re ever needed.

Work-life balance

Your employer likely offers other initiatives to help you make time for your personal priorities. Familiarize yourself with your company’s PTO (paid time off) policy, parental leave and flexible work arrangements to see how you might use them in 2026.

Make open enrollment work for you

The open enrollment period is the ideal time to ensure you understand all your benefits. First, ensure you know your company’s enrollment window. Some workplace benefits are offered year-round, while others are only available during the annual enrollment period or for a major life event (like getting married or welcoming a child).

Then think about which benefits are most cost-effective for your needs over the coming year, weighing their cost against the protection and security they provide. If your employer offers a match on your workplace savings plan contributions or HSA, remember the value “free money” can add to your overall benefit plan.

Ask questions

Unsure about choosing your benefits package, or need assistance? Consult your human resources representative or benefits administrators.

Visit Fidelity.com to learn more about workplace benefit options.

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High stakes and holiday cheer: Oaklawn’s new racing era begins

2025-10-20T08:01:01

(BPT) – Oaklawn Hot Springs, one of America’s premier Thoroughbred racetracks and casinos, is making history. Beginning with the 2025–2026 season, Oaklawn’s racing calendar — long recognized for its high-stakes purses and nationally competitive fields — will feature two distinct racing seasons for the first time in its more than 100-year history.

A festive new tradition

The Holiday Racing Season launches Dec. 12, 2025 – Jan. 4, 2026, bringing the thrill of Oaklawn racing into the most festive time of year. Guests can pair the adrenaline of live racing and the comfort of the Forbes Recommended Oaklawn Hotel with relaxation at the Forbes Four-Star Astral Spa. Whether it’s a holiday getaway, a New Year’s weekend celebration or simply a new tradition to share with friends, the Holiday Racing Season adds a fun and festive twist to the Oaklawn experience.

Race horses coming around the bend at the Oaklawn track.

Elite racing returns in 2026

After a brief intermission, the spotlight returns with Oaklawn’s iconic Classic Racing Season, running Jan. 30 – May 2, 2026. This stretch showcases some of the nation’s most prestigious stakes races, drawing the sport’s elite horses, jockeys and trainers to Hot Springs. For racing fans, it’s an unmatched opportunity to see championship-caliber Thoroughbreds with the potential of winning horse racing’s coveted Triple Crown.

“Racing in December allows Oaklawn to welcome fans during the Holiday Racing Season, while our Classic Racing Season continues to deliver the elite competition for which Oaklawn is known,” said Louis A. Cella, president of Oaklawn. “We’re excited to offer even more opportunities for both longtime racing enthusiasts and new guests to experience what makes Oaklawn unique.”

Birds eye view of horses racing on Oaklawn Hot Springs track.

A destination beyond the track

This new split-season format is designed to appeal to a broad audience:

  • Racing enthusiasts: More opportunities to follow elite contenders and experience the traditions that make Oaklawn one of the premier tracks in the country.
  • Young adults and new fans: A festive holiday atmosphere paired with approachable entry points to live racing, dining and entertainment makes Oaklawn a perfect first-time experience.
  • Those planning a getaway: Beyond the track and great casino action, visitors can enjoy Oaklawn’s Forbes Recommended Hotel, unwind at the Astral Spa — Arkansas’ only Forbes four-star luxury spa — and indulge at Arkansas’ only Forbes Recommended restaurants, The Bugler and The OAK room & bar.

Experience Oaklawn’s elevated hospitality

Oaklawn’s innovation comes at a time when live experiences are more valuable than ever. The combination of holiday events, premier racing and the backdrop of Hot Springs’ scenic Ouachita Mountains creates an unparalleled destination for both locals and travelers.

Fans are encouraged to mark their calendars for Opening Day on Dec. 12, 2025, and join Oaklawn in celebrating this historic new chapter in Thoroughbred racing.

Tips for visiting Oaklawn Hot Springs

  • Check in and stay a while: Enjoy the Forbes Recommended Oaklawn Hotel, home to Arkansas’ only Forbes Four-Star luxury spa, a world-class casino and multiple Forbes Recommended dining options that make Oaklawn more than a day at the races.
  • Explore Hot Springs: Discover the historic bathhouses, hiking trails and a vibrant local dining scene to round out your trip.
  • Fun for the whole family: Holiday race days will feature a festive atmosphere with daily promotions, food, entertainment and family-friendly options.
  • Plan ahead: Visit Oaklawn.com for hotel reservations, ticket information, schedules and special events.

With two distinct racing seasons, Oaklawn is ready to deliver unforgettable memories — whether it’s holiday cheer in December or Derby dreams in the spring.

Founded in 1904 and located in Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas, Oaklawn is one of the premier Thoroughbred racetracks in the country. Make your reservations and plan your trip at www.oaklawn.com.

Must be 18 for race gambling and 21 for casino gaming in Arkansas. Always bet responsibly. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, please call 1-800-522-4700 or visit www.ncpgambling.org.