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Must-Have Essentials for Baby’s First Months from Carter’s My First Love Collection

2023-06-15T08:01:00

(BPT) – Nothing compares to the excitement of welcoming a new baby. From the moment you hold your little ones to the day you watch them take their first steps and beyond, that love only continues to grow as they grow.

Carter’s, the most trusted children’s brand, makes shopping for all the essentials you need for baby’s first months and each milestone simple and stress-free. Whether your due date is swiftly approaching or you need to size up for your baby, Carter’s My First Love collection offers everything you need to dress little ones in style, with fuss-free features that make dressing baby easy.

Here are all the soft, sweet baby starters you need in one place:

Neutrals for Every Occasion

From take-me-home sets with unexpected details to make every milestone extra special, to the 5-star-rated Sleep & Play with convenient 2-way zip design, these gender-neutral essentials are made with soft, 100% cotton and are must-haves for your new little one.

Baby 2-Piece Sleep & Play And Cap Set Baby 4-Piece Take Me Home Set Baby 3-Piece Terry Little Cardigan Set

Adorable Styles for Baby Girl

Filled with florals and fuss-free features (that make late night and on-the-move changes a breeze), the collection offers apparel and accessories in freshly picked pink for the new baby girl in your life. Dress her head-to-toe in these adorable styles not just for playtime or mealtime but also for all of her firsts.

Baby 2-Piece Floral Sleep & Play And Cap Set Baby 3-Piece Little Cardigan Set Baby 2-Piece Bodysuit Dress and Cardigan Set

Sweet Styles for Baby Boy

Dress your new baby boy in dreamy blues and sweet animal patterns for tummy time, bedtime and more. This collection offers playful styles and essentials that will prepare him to take on any first from crawling to walking.

Baby 3-Piece Little Cardigan Set Baby 2-Piece Jumpsuit and Socks Set Baby 2-Pack Sleeper Gowns

Thoughtful Gifts to Give Loved Ones

Don’t know the gender? This collection offers bundles and coordinating sets in neutral prints and patterns that make for great gifts. Stock up on all the essential staples for baby’s first wardrobe, including accessories like tiny booties, caps and sets.

Baby 3-Pack Duck Booties Baby 3-Piece Little Cardigan Set Baby 2-Pack Caps

Back-ups to Save the Day

From spit-ups to feedings, multiple outfit changes are common when you have a new baby. So stock up on all your must-have baby essentials, including extra bodysuits with overlap shoulders, bibs and receiving blankets (good for burping) for those messy mishaps and quick outfit changes when you’re on-the-go.

Baby 3-Pack Bandana Bibs Baby 4-Pack Duck Receiving Blankets Baby 3-Pack Bibs

Head to Carters.com to check out these must-haves made for the simple beauty of baby’s first months.

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Grab Childhood by the Handlebars: The Benefits of Biking for Kids

2023-06-15T09:01:00

(BPT) – Unstructured playtime outside of school, like the kind children can experience during the summer, is critical to children’s physical, mental and emotional health. However, unstructured outdoor playtime is drastically declining. According to a study by the Child Mind Institute, the average American child spends only 4-7 minutes of their day playing outside and over seven hours a day in front of a screen — despite nearly endless proven benefits that the outdoors can provide.

With the summer season back in full swing, there is no better time to get outdoors and active, and back on bikes.

This summer, Schwinn wants to encourage families to stop scrolling and start rolling through ‘Let’s Play Bikes,’ a new campaign designed to support parents and caregivers in getting kids back outside and off their devices. Check out these benefits cycling can have for your child this summer and beyond.

1. Encourages independence and community

For kids and adults alike, one of the great pleasures of cycling is doing it with friends or discovering new friends as you bike around your city or neighborhood. In a time when it’s far too easy to be disconnected from other people, biking can help keep people connected, but it’s more than just social connectivity. Bike riding allows kids to explore their surroundings on their own terms. They get to decide where to go, assess risks and learn to trust their instincts. Making these choices helps them become more independent and can build their confidence. Whether exploring the neighborhood, the park, a friend’s house or school, biking allows children to experience self-reliance.

2. A great way to get physically active

Starting the day off with active movement, like bike riding, is beneficial for kids and adults of all ages. For younger kids, learning to ride a bike helps develop balance, coordination, and large motor skills. Physical activity in pre-teen years has shown to improve both mental and physical health. Put simply, bike riding is healthy and wholesome fun for everyone!

3. Regulates mental and emotional well-being

Regular biking can help children (and adults) of any age feel calmer and happier. According to the Harvard School of Public Health, biking lowers stress levels and stimulates the release of endorphins, the feel-good hormone. One study found that young and older bike commuters reported lower stress levels than those who drove or commuted to work by other means.

4. Provides a break from digital devices

Childhood has changed — kids are stuck inside staring at screens all day. Kids view play as an inside endeavor — logging on, streaming, gaming, and digitizing their Saturdays. They need fresh air, sunshine, and a reconnection to the real-world. By logging off and riding on, kids can experience traditional, outdoor, physically active, play. Not to mention, it gives everyone a chance to enjoy the outdoors and breathe fresh air.

Ready to grab life by the handlebars?

Are you ready to teach your little one how to ride a bike, and to help them build a life-long love of cycling and wellness at an early age? Check out Schwinn’s library of educational materials like its “Learn to Ride Guides” and “Guide to Kids’ Bike Sizes,” which can help you teach your children the fundamentals and also find a bike that’s right for them. Don’t forget to check out Schwinn’s SmartStart kids bikes, specifically engineered for children’s proportions and offering greater stability and comfort for young riders. It’s just about time to ride off into that summer sun!

As part of its ‘Let’s Play Bikes’ campaign, Schwinn is offering even more incentives for families to get outside and bike with a SmartStart Sweepstakes. Throughout the month of June, you can enter to win $10,000 to put towards your child’s college fund by posting a photo or video of them bike riding on Instagram. Tag @SchwinnBikes and use the hashtags #SchwinnSmartStart and #sweepstakes in the photo or video caption to enter. To learn more, visit SchwinnBikes.com.

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How to spot fraud, outsmart criminals and protect yourself from scams

2023-06-15T05:01:00

(BPT) – By Martha Weaver, Retail Gift Card Association Fraud Committee Chair

Criminals are smart. And increasingly sophisticated. With technology and artificial intelligence (AI) at their fingertips, they are constantly finding clever ways to take advantage of honest, hard-working Americans. There are a variety of scams criminals use to steal money, and many are turning to more cunning methods that involve bank accounts, debit and credit cards, and gift cards.

People love gift cards; they’ve been the top requested gift in America for nearly two decades according to the National Retail Federation. But while everyday folks love giving, receiving and using gift cards, unfortunately so do criminals. Just like other payment methods, criminals use intelligent means of stealing money from gift cards — but we have some tips for how to spot them, outsmart the scammers and protect yourself.

Here are our top gift card safety tips:

  1. Gift cards can only be used at the company on the card. If you get asked to send money or pay for another service with a gift card, STOP and contact law enforcement, even if the fraudster tells you not to talk to anyone or a loved one is in trouble. No real government agency or business will ever reach out and ask you to pay them with gift cards — and you can’t pay taxes or bail money with gift cards.
  2. Check gift card packaging at the store and make sure the gift card hasn’t been tampered with. Look for things like ripped or torn packaging or missing scratch-off material over the top of the PIN number. If something doesn’t look right, pick another card and show the questionable card to a store associate.
  3. When you buy a gift card, keep your activation receipt as proof of your purchase.
  4. Only buy gift cards from trusted sources. If you’re offered a deal that’s too good to be true, like a big discount on a gift card, it’s likely a scam or you’re getting a fraudulent card.
  5. Store your gift cards securely and don’t share gift card numbers or PINs with people you don’t know.

If you think you have been scammed or see fraud happening, contact your local law enforcement or the FTC at ftc.gov/complaint or via this toll-free number: 1-877-FTC-HELP. You can also report IRS impersonation scams to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration, visit their website or call 800-366-4484.

The Retail Gift Card Association (RGCA) is the only nonprofit trade organization that represents the gift card industry. We have more than 100 of the world’s top brands on our roster, and together our mission is to promote positive gift card experiences among shoppers.

More information about how to have amazing gift card experiences is available at GiftCardSafety.org. You can learn more about the gift card industry at www.thergca.org.

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Countertops Emerge as the Kitchen’s Focal Point: Choosing the Ideal Surface

2023-06-14T09:01:00

(BPT) – Countertops have become a focal point of modern kitchen design, with an increasing number of design professionals recognizing their significance. According to a recent online poll conducted by Kitchen & Bath Design News (KBDN), 52% of the dealers and designers surveyed believe that countertops are becoming more critical to overall kitchen design, and 74% report that countertops are becoming larger in size than in years past. With all eyes on countertops, selecting the right surface for your home has come into focus like never before. With a wide array of materials, colors and finishes available, it is essential to select countertops that not only enhance your kitchen but also cater to your lifestyle and preferences.

Here are four widely favored engineered surfaces to consider when selecting countertops.

1. Quartz

Inspired by the coveted appearance of natural stone, engineered quartz offers peace of mind as a non-porous, highly durable and easy-to-clean surface. It eliminates the need for chemical sealing associated with its natural stone counterparts and is easily maintained with simply soap and water. With its remarkable strength and versatility, quartz enables you to envision your unique style narrative without boundaries. Wilsonart® Quartz delivers this vision with on-trend designs, exceptional durability, easy maintenance and stain resistance, ensuring beauty for years to come. Featuring 10 new designs inspired by the world around us, looks range from Soapstone to the coveted rare beauty of deep-veined Calacatta marbles, offering elegant and tranquil looks ideal for any kitchen. Reflecting current home trends, the collection also includes 2 new designs that come exclusively in a new natural matte finish.

2. Solid Surface

Solid surface countertops seamlessly emulate the elegance and texture of marble, granite and more while maintaining an affordable price point. With its exceptional durability and impact resistance, solid surface provides peace of mind in the face of daily household challenges with no need to worry about nicks, cracks or spills. This material is engineered to be easily repairable, unlike any other countertop solutions. Solid surface countertops can also be paired with sinks made from cast-molded acrylic, creating a visually monolithic look. Wilsonart® Solid Surface captures nature’s movements and hues in six new modern designs. Blurring the lines between engineered and natural materials, the dynamic designs provide the look of authentic marble, concrete and stone with scale, definition and variation. Hues range from warm taupes, charcoal grays and metallic dusts to a full range of cool, bright and soft whites.

3. High Pressure Laminate

The laminate countertops available today have undergone remarkable transformations. Thanks to significant advancements in technology and engineering, you no longer have to compromise style for affordability or performance. Modern High Pressure Laminate (HPL) can replicate the appearance of luxurious materials such as natural stone, wood and marble, all at a fraction of the cost. Not only does HPL offer impressive durability, with its ability to withstand everyday use and resist impacts, scuffing, and scratches, but it also delivers exceptional value in terms of both performance and design. HPL stands out with its unparalleled combination of functionality and aesthetic appeal.

4. Composite Countertops

Looking for a modern, budget-friendly countertop that exudes sophistication? THINSCAPE® Performance Tops, inspired by sleek European design, caters to those seeking a high-end appearance while keeping costs within reach. With its minimalist aesthetic perfectly suited for contemporary spaces, the countertops feature an innovative 1/2-inch thickness that complements the prevailing trend of sleek cabinet designs in kitchens worldwide. Performance is not sacrificed in the countertop’s sleek and stylish profile; instead, it offers exceptional durability with resistance to impact, heat and scratches. The elegant surface offers a range of styles from expansive stone patterns to weathered metal finishes, capable of transforming any kitchen into a visual masterpiece. Three new stone designs, Soluna, Sea Line Mist and Pietra Noir, range from neutral hues to beautiful dark stone looks typically exclusive to natural stone or high-end materials.

Whatever you can imagine, there’s a surface for you. For more inspiration and information, visit https://www.wilsonart.com/.

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5 products to get the most of your truck while ‘Out in the Real’

2023-06-14T07:41:00

(BPT) – Summer is upon us, and it’s the perfect time to get outdoors and live out all of life’s adventures on the open road. From camping, fishing and kayaking to mountain biking and hiking, there is really nothing like enjoying the great outdoors and getting back to the basics with family and friends, or solo this season. For truck enthusiasts, it’s important to gear up for your home away from home. Here are our top five recommendations for truck accessories to make the most out of summer 2023.

N-Fab HVM Bull Bar

The newly released N-FAB HVM Bull Bar’s ferocious design adds essential front-end protection and an aggressive look which creates a unique visual aesthetic for your truck. It features a custom tight fit to the bumper with a matte black powder coat finish that complements the factory trim. The steel frame is anchored by fully integrated dual recovery hooks. With forged aluminum construction, these massive shackle mounts prepare you to handle all kinds of outdoor, trail-worthy adventures.

N-Fab Universal Roof Rack

The N-FAB Universal Roof Rack adds essential overhead cargo capacity and works with most OEM and aftermarket crossbars. Its sleek, low-profile design will unleash your ability to explore “Out in the Real” this season by giving you additional storage space for all your summer toys. The rack is spacious and sturdy, holding up to 180 lbs. of cargo, secured with built-in anchor points. Another unique feature of the N-Fab Universal Roof Rack is that it has integrated front and rear multi-mount light systems, providing the capability to add auxiliary lighting to illuminate the campsite or those late nights on the trail.

Solid Fold ALX Tonneau Cover

The Extang Solid Fold ALX Tonneau Cover is packed with features that are anything but average. Its sturdy makeup resists dents, scratches and fading from various weather conditions. While the cover appears to be lightweight, it’s deceptively strong and can support up to 600 lbs. of evenly distributed weight. Installing this product on your truck bed will allow you to keep camping, fishing and hiking gear clean and dry, as well as give you support to add additional equipment on top of the cover. It’s ideal for traveling with all your outside summer essentials.

The Rampage TrailView Fastback Soft Top

The Rampage TrailView Fastback Soft Top combines unbeatable styling and functionality with all the great features you look for in a replacement top. It fits 2021-present Ford Bronco two- and four-door models. The cover is easy to install and provides a snug, uniform fit. It has larger side windows than most covers which improves overall visibility. The TrailView Fastback Soft Top is two tops in one — a full soft top and an open-air safari top that can be easily opened from inside the vehicle. This combo top is the perfect option for summer, because you can ride with the top down and enjoy the summer breeze while traveling offroad, but can quickly get coverage if harsh conditions appear.

Husky Liners X-Act Contour Liners

Husky Liners X-Act Contour Liners are an easy and practical addition to your truck, van or SUV that’ll keep your interior clean. Venture out on dirt or mud, and don’t sweat getting your shoes wet while trying to snag your next big catch. These liners repel it all and fit like a glove with no edge curls or gaps, ensuring protection. They are easy to install and provide rock-solid stability for any adventure.

Summer is meant to be spent Out in the Real, so grab your gear and get out there!

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Supporting a Partner Through Their Plaque Psoriasis Journey

2023-06-13T07:01:00

(BPT) – Sponsored by Lilly USA, LLC

Having a support system of family and friends is an important part of anyone’s life, but especially for someone living with psoriasis. Many turn to their partners as someone to lean on throughout their diagnosis and treatment journey.

Psoriasis, a common chronic autoimmune disease that affects the skin, impacts more than 125 million people globally. The most common form of psoriasis, plaque psoriasis, presents as red and inflamed patches covered by white scales.

Eddie, a born-and-raised New Yorker, is one of many people impacted by moderate to severe plaque psoriasis, and he understands the impact his disease has on his partner, Nick. For someone who doesn’t have this condition, it can be difficult to understand. “Nick heard me talk about how the plaques looked and felt, but he could never really know what it was like to go through what I was going through.”

According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, having a chronic disease such as psoriasis can make it challenging for both care partners and the person who has the disease. It may be difficult to talk to your partner, friends and family about your psoriasis and how it affects your life, but the organization recommends not avoiding these conversations.

Much like others with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis, Eddie has a long history of physical symptoms. His partner, Nick, recounts days when Eddie’s plaques were flaky, which made Eddie feel embarrassed enough to want to cover his skin.

After trying many over the counter creams and steroids, Eddie found a dermatologist who recommended Taltz® (ixekizumab) injection 80 mg/mL, which resulted in rapid relief from his bothersome symptoms and total clearance of the plaques on his skin.* Thanks to Taltz, Eddie’s skin is clearer and he’s focusing on what matters most to him: friends, family and Nick.

Taltz is a prescription medicine approved for adults and children six years and older with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis who may benefit from taking injections or pills (systemic therapy) or phototherapy (treatment using ultraviolet or UV light). Taltz affects the immune system. It may increase your risk of infections, which can be serious. Do not use Taltz if you have any symptoms of infection, unless your doctor tells you to. If you have a symptom after starting Taltz, call your doctor right away. Learn more about patients like Eddie and their experiences with Taltz.

*This article represents Eddie’s personal experiences. While Eddie saw complete clearance with Taltz, individual results may vary. In clinical trials, at 12 weeks, up to 90 percent of people saw a significant improvement of their psoriasis plaques, and four out of ten people achieved completely clear skin.

Helpful Tips for Caretakers from Eddie and Nick’s Perspective

From the perspective of a partner and caretaker, here are some helpful tips to consider when caring for someone with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis:

  • DO have an understanding of the disease

Having a strong understanding of your partner’s condition is invaluable to support your loved one. For helpful resources and to learn more about psoriasis, visit The National Psoriasis Foundation and Taltz.com.

  • DON’T push too hard for information or give unwanted advice

It’s important to respect your partner’s feelings and decisions regarding their disease journey. Eddie shares, “Until you deal with it, you don’t know what it’s like.” Be sure to honor boundaries and keep your distance when asked.

  • DO listen to what they are telling you

As a caretaker, Nick notes, “It’s important to understand why your loved one is feeling the way they are and to comfort them as much as you can, even knowing that there’s nothing you can do physically to remedy the disease.” However, listening entails more than hearing their words. It also involves picking up on their behavioral changes and paying attention to their actions so you can best support them.

  • DO check in to see if you are giving the support they need

Being a caretaker doesn’t come with a roadmap. Communicate with your partner to ensure you are providing the type of support they want and need.

  • DON’T forget to take care of yourself

Taking care of your own mental and physical wellbeing is just as important as caring for your partner. Prioritizing your own needs allows you to be in the best position to support your partner through the experience of living with plaque psoriasis.


Ask your doctor about treatment options, like Taltz, if you are living with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis

Eddie recommends talking to your doctor about available treatment options, including Taltz, if you are living with this condition and hoping for complete skin clearance.

If you have moderate to severe plaque psoriasis, talk to your doctor about Taltz to see if it could be the right treatment for you.

Eddie and Nick were compensated for their time to provide insights on this topic.

INDICATIONS AND SAFETY SUMMARY

Taltz® (tol-ts) is an injectable medicine used to treat:

  • People 6 years of age and older with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis who may benefit from taking injections or pills (systemic therapy) or treatment using ultraviolet or UV light (phototherapy).
  • Adults with active psoriatic arthritis.
  • Adults with active ankylosing spondylitis.
  • Adults with active non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis with objective signs of inflammation.

It is not known if Taltz is safe and effective in children for conditions other than plaque psoriasis or in children under 6 years of age.

Warnings – Taltz affects the immune system. It may increase your risk of infections, which can be serious. Do not use Taltz if you have any symptoms of infection, unless your doctor tells you to. If you have a symptom after starting Taltz, call your doctor right away.

Your doctor should check you for tuberculosis (TB) before you start Taltz, and watch you closely for signs of TB during and after treatment with Taltz. If you have TB, or had it in the past, your doctor may treat you for it before you start Taltz.

Do not use Taltz if you have had a serious allergic reaction to ixekizumab or any other ingredient in Taltz, such as: swelling of your eyelids, lips, mouth, tongue or throat, trouble breathing, feeling faint, throat or chest tightness, or skin rash. Get emergency help right away if you have any of these reactions. See the Medication Guide that comes with Taltz for a list of ingredients.

Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis (inflammatory bowel disease) can start or get worse with Taltz use. Tell your doctor if you have any of these symptoms or if they get worse: stomach pain, diarrhea, and weight loss.

You should not get live vaccines while taking Taltz. You should get the vaccines you need before you start Taltz.

Common side effects

The most common side effects of Taltz include:

  • Injection site reactions
  • Upper respiratory infections
  • Nausea
  • Fungal skin infections

Tell your doctor if you have any side effects. You can report side effects at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.

Before using

Before you use Taltz, review these questions with your doctor:

  • Are you being treated for an infection?
  • Do you have an infection that does not go away or keeps coming back?
  • Do you have TB or have you been in close contact with someone with TB?
  • Do you have possible symptoms of an infection such as fever, cough, sores, diarrhea, or
    other symptoms? Ask your doctor about other possible symptoms.
  • Do you have Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis?

Tell your doctor if:

  • You need any vaccines or have had one recently.
  • You take prescription or over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, or herbal supplements.
  • You are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. It is not known if Taltz can harm an unborn baby. Pregnancy Exposure Registry: There is a pregnancy registry to collect information about women who are exposed to Taltz during pregnancy. The purpose of this registry is to collect information about the health of you and your baby. If you become pregnant while taking Taltz, you are encouraged to enroll in the pregnancy registry by calling 1-800-284-1695 or by visiting online at https://www.taltz.com.
  • You are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed. It is not known if Taltz passes into breastmilk.

How to take

See the instructions for use that come with Taltz. There you will find information about how to store, prepare, and inject Taltz. Adults may self-inject after receiving training from a healthcare provider.

For people under 18 years of age:

  • Weighing less than 50 kg (i.e., 110 lb): Taltz must be given by a healthcare provider.
  • Weighing more than 50 kg (i.e., 110 lb): If your healthcare provider decides that your caregiver may give your injections of Taltz at home, your caregiver should ask and receive training from a healthcare provider on the right way to prepare and inject Taltz.

Learn more

Taltz is a prescription medicine. For more information, call 1-800-545-5979 or go to taltz.com.

This summary provides basic information about Taltz but does not include all information known about this medicine. Read the information that comes with your prescription each time your prescription is filled. This information does not take the place of talking with your doctor. Be sure to talk to your doctor or other healthcare provider about Taltz and how to take it. Your doctor is the best person to help you decide if Taltz is right for you.

IX CON BS 05OCT2022

Taltz® and its delivery device base are trademarks owned or licensed by Eli Lilly and Company, its subsidiaries, or affiliates.

PP-IX-US-6265 05/2023 ©Lilly USA, LLC 2023. All rights reserved.

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Get the right diagnosis and management for IBS to fully enjoy summer

2023-06-13T08:01:00

(BPT) – From the beach to the backyard, road trips to staycations and so many celebrations, summer is peak season for enjoying time with friends and family. You want to feel your best no matter where you’re going, but digestive problems like stomach pain and cramps, bloating as well as urgent bathroom visits can halt summer fun fast.

Many people dismiss their digestive issues as part of life, but these symptoms may be indicators of more serious gastrointestinal conditions such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome, often referred to as IBS. IBS is a common disorder that affects the stomach and intestines, also called the gastrointestinal tract. Symptoms include cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhea or constipation — or both. IBS affects between 25 and 45 million people in the United States, according to estimates from the International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders. IBS comes in different subtypes including IBS-C (constipation) and IBS-D (diarrhea).

Ignoring or self-managing your symptoms can delay diagnosis and development of an effective treatment plan. According to “Patient Perspectives: Impacts of Living with IBS,” a recent report from gastroenterology company Salix Pharmaceuticals, more than half of people with IBS waited a year or more before mentioning their symptoms to a provider. Nearly one in three (32%) felt awkward talking about their symptoms to their doctor, and 43% were not aware that IBS is a chronic condition, meaning it’s something people live with and need to manage.

Open communication with your doctor is key to assessing symptoms, enabling a diagnosis, and developing a treatment plan. The survey found that 9 out of 10 IBS patients acknowledged the importance of their health care provider taking the time to talk about additional symptoms and how those symptoms impact daily living. In addition, 1 in 5 survey respondents are not aware that there are prescription options available to address IBS symptoms. Keeping a log of all the symptoms you experience over time and a list of questions can help facilitate the conversation with your doctor and make the most of your appointment.

Don’t spend your summer trying to self-manage your IBS symptoms. It’s important to recognize your symptoms and talk to your doctor to get an assessment of what could be going on, and to figure out a treatment plan that is right for you. You have more important things to focus on — like enjoying life.

To learn more about IBS symptoms and treatment options for adults, visit Salix.com.

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Workforce of tomorrow: How today’s automotive leaders are training the next generation to foster an electric and connected future

2023-06-13T09:01:00

(BPT) – As today’s leaders in the automotive industry re-imagine what the future of mobility looks like, so too must they prioritize how they invest in their future workforce to ensure they’re up for the challenge and are equipped to carry the industry forward when they’re ready to lead. With an all-electric future quickly on the horizon and autonomous mobility continuing to advance, it is necessary to invest time, money and other resources to provide college students with the training and knowledge of the electric, battery and autonomous trades, coupled with the necessary market skills to hit the ground running after graduation.

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), General Motors (GM) and MathWorks are sponsoring the EcoCAR EV Challenge to help fill the talent pipeline with entry-level employees, who bring applied knowledge and hands-on experience they acquired through this competition. Managed by Argonne National Laboratory, this four-year competition and newest edition to the Advanced Vehicle Technology Competition (AVTC) series will challenge university students to engineer a next-generation battery electric vehicle (BEV) that deploys connected and autonomous vehicle (CAV) technology to implement energy-efficient and customer-pleasing features.

Throughout the EcoCAR EV Challenge, teams will demonstrate the potential of advanced propulsion systems, CAV technologies and other innovative solutions to analyze the energy efficiency of a 2023 Cadillac LYRIQ — a next generation BEV — provided by GM. Students will be tasked with complex, real-world technical engineering challenges, including enhancing the propulsion system of their LYRIQ to optimize energy efficiency while maintaining consumer expectations for performance and driving experience. Year one of the competition kicked off during the Fall 2022 semester and the four-year program will conclude at the end of the Spring 2026 semester.

The participating educational institutions in the EcoCAR EV Challenge include:

  • Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University & Bethune-Cookman University
  • Georgia Institute of Technology
  • Illinois Institute of Technology
  • McMaster University
  • Mississippi State University
  • Ohio State University & Wilberforce University
  • University of Alabama
  • University of California, Davis
  • University of California, Riverside
  • University of Texas, Austin
  • University of Waterloo
  • Virginia Tech
  • West Virginia University

The first year of the competition is dedicated to planning and strategizing for the remainder of the competition. This year’s finale took place in May 2023 in Orlando, Florida, with a joint team of students from The Ohio State University (OSU) & Wilberforce University (a historically Black university) crowned the Year 1 overall first place winner. Rounding out the top three are West Virginia University in second place and University of Alabama which finished third. As we look toward year two, which will kick off this fall, each student team will receive a Cadillac LYRIQ that they’ll reengineer to add new energy-efficient and customer-friendly features designed to address the decarbonization needs of the automotive industry.

At the cutting edge of engineering education, AVTCs empower the next generation of engineers and business leaders through hands-on, real-world technical experience. Working closely with mobility and government leaders on a curriculum specifically tailored to align with future industry needs, these competitions help address the toughest mobility challenges facing our nation, while building a clean energy workforce that reflects the diversity of North America.

Since 1988, AVTCs have served as the auto industry’s most effective proving ground for developing new talent — with over 30,000 students from 95 educational institutions participating over the years. Throughout the program, students broaden their skills and expertise through interdisciplinary collaborations with their respective universities, industry leaders and subject matter experts. They also gain access to state-of-the-art testing facilities, and the latest software tools, equipment and hardware. At the end of their college career, AVTC program graduates are more likely to secure top jobs with North America’s premier employers, and often accept higher starting salaries than their peers.

To learn more about the EcoCAR EV Challenge and to follow along on each team’s journey, visit https://avtcseries.org/ and like, follow and subscribe to the competition’s Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn channels.

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Summer Travel Costs Got You Down? Ways to Make Your Vacation Easier and More Affordable

2023-06-13T08:13:00

(BPT) – As the weather gets warmer, many are feeling a strong dose of wanderlust. And while it is tempting to take the PTO and book a ticket to the destination you’ve been thinking of, the hike in travel costs (and daily living expenses) may make you feel a summer vacation is out of reach.

You’re not the only one — according to the recent SoFi Travel Habits survey1, 56% of SoFi members said they decided against traveling altogether due to rising costs during the planning process. However, depending on your financial situation, that doesn’t mean a vacation is totally out of reach if you know how to plan and where to find deals. With the right planning and saving, going on a vacation while staying on top of your personal finances is completely doable. Here are a few recommended tips:

Plan before you go

When planning out your vacation, make sure to shop around and compare costs of different flights, destinations and packages. It may surprise you that sometimes opting to buy an all-inclusive international travel package can be less expensive than a local vacation. Doing your research and making those comparisons will allow you to make the most informed decision before hitting “buy.”

Also, when possible, try traveling during the early mornings and late nights, as fewer people want to travel during these times, making tickets more affordable.

Automate saving for your trips and trim costs where possible

Once you have a ballpark figure of how much you intend on spending for your vacation, make sure to budget for that amount as early as you can to give yourself some room to save toward your goal. In fact, in a recent SoFi Travel survey, one-third of SoFi members report saving for trips 6-8 months in advance, so if your circumstances allow for it, you can even try planning for a vacation during the off-season to make saving easier.

The most efficient way you can begin putting away money for your trip is by setting up automated savings. When you automate your savings, you are setting up your bank account to routinely transfer a specified amount from your checking to your savings. Some financial institutions offer an automated savings feature so you can “set it and forget it,” making sure your vacation money never even hits your account and goes straight into savings.

To make the most of your savings, consider a financial institution that offers both automatic savings and a high-yield savings account. SoFi Checking and Savings2 offers Autopilot to set savings aside automatically as it hits your account, as well as 4.30% Annual Percentage Yield (APY)3 for direct deposit members, to make saving easier and to offer more back for your money.

Trim pricey treats before the trip

Of course, automating your savings only works if you have budgeted appropriately and can afford to miss the amount you set toward your savings. If you find that you are having trouble with this, try doing an audit of your spending, and identify what you can stop spending or spend less on.

Using an app or a tool that your bank offers may help you audit your spending habits more accurately. SoFi Insights4, a financial tracking tool, highlights your spending trends and how much you’re saving every month. This helps you manage your spending better, and identify places you can potentially trim a little if you need to set aside extra funds for your upcoming vacation. For example, it can easily show you how much you’re spending on takeout each month. Most of the year that spending may fit into your budget, but as you gear up for vacation, instead of ordering takeout multiple times a week, consider making it a weekly treat until you reach your savings goals.

Use your cashback, plus any and all discounts you have access to

Since travel costs are expected to be high this summer, this would be the prime time for you to redeem any discounts you’re offered or cash back you’ve accumulated. Make sure to use them wisely depending on your circumstances. For example, if your destination is more drivable, opt to drive and use your cash back on the hotel stay or an experience that would have otherwise been more expensive to book.

One way you can make sure that you are getting the best discounts and deals for your trip is by choosing an intuitive platform that delivers a seamless booking experience and allows you to make an informed decision. SoFi Travel5, powered by Expedia Group, offers members access to discounts and rewards on everything from flights and car rentals to hotels and travel packages. SoFi Travel also offers an unlimited 3% cash back6 for members who book travel with the SoFi Credit Card7, which means more rewards back in your pocket to redeem for cash, invest8 or pay down eligible loans9, allowing you to book your travel and manage your banking, investing and more all in one place.

For more information, you can visit: https://www.sofi.com/sofi-travel/.

DISCLOSURES

1. Source: Based on the SoFi Travel Habits Survey of 1,466 SoFi members from April 4 – 16, 2023.

2. SoFi Checking and Savings is offered through SoFi Bank, N.A.

3. SoFi members with direct deposit can earn up to 4.30% annual percentage yield (APY) on savings balances (including Vaults) and 1.20% APY on checking balances. There is no minimum direct deposit amount required to qualify for the 4.30% APY for savings. Members without direct deposit will earn 1.20% APY on all account balances in checking balances and savings balances without direct deposit (including Vaults). Interest rates are variable and subject to change at any time. These rates are current as of 6/9/2023. There is no minimum balance requirement. Additional information can be found at http://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet.

4. SoFi’s Insights tool offers users the ability to connect both SoFi accounts and external accounts using Plaid, Inc.’s service. The credit score provided to you is a VantageScore® based on TransUnion® (the “Processing Agent”) data.

5. Terms, and conditions apply: The SoFi Travel Portal is operated by Expedia. To learn more about Expedia, click https://www.expediagroup.com/home/default.aspx.

When you use your SoFi Credit Card to make a purchase on the SoFi Travel Portal, you will earn a number of SoFi Member Rewards points equal to 3% of the total amount you spend on the SoFi Travel Portal. Members can save up to 10% or more on eligible bookings.

Eligibility:

You must be a SoFi registered user.

You must agree to SoFi’s privacy consent agreement.

You must book the travel on SoFi’s Travel Portal reached directly through a link on the SoFi website or mobile application. Travel booked directly on Expedia’s website or app, or any other site operated or powered by Expedia is not eligible.

You must pay using your SoFi Credit Card.

SoFi Member Rewards: All terms applicable to the use of SoFi Member Rewards apply. To learn more please see: https://www.sofi.com/rewards/.

Terms applicable to Member Rewards: https://d32ijn7u0aqfv4.cloudfront.net/git/docs/rewards/Enroll%20-%20SoFi%20Member%20Rewards.pdf.

Additional Terms:

Changes to your bookings will affect the Rewards balance for the purchase.

Any canceled bookings or fraud will cause Rewards to be rescinded.

Rewards can be delayed by up to 7 business days after a transaction posts on Members’ SoFi Credit Card ledger.

SoFi reserves the right to withhold Rewards points for suspected fraud, misuse, or suspicious activities.

©2023 SoFi Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender. NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC), (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

6. *See Rewards Details<SoFi.com/card/rewards>

7. The SoFi Credit Card is issued by The Bank of Missouri (TBOM) (“Issuer”) pursuant to license by Mastercard® International Incorporated and can be used everywhere Mastercard is accepted. Mastercard is a registered trademark, and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.

8. Brokerage and Active investing products offered through SoFi Securities LLC, member FINRA (www.finra.org)/SIPC (www.sipc.org).

9. Terms and conditions apply. SOFI RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY OR DISCONTINUE PRODUCTS AND BENEFITS AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE. To qualify, a borrower must be a U.S. citizen or other eligible status, be residing in the U.S., and meet SoFi’s underwriting requirements. Not all borrowers receive the lowest rate. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. If approved, your actual rate will be within the range of rates at the time of application and will depend on a variety of factors, including term of loan, evaluation of your creditworthiness, income, and other factors. If SoFi is unable to offer you a loan but matches you for a loan with a participating bank, then your rate may be outside the range of rates listed above. Rates and Terms are subject to change at any time without notice. SoFi Personal Loans can be used for any lawful personal, family, or household purposes and may not be used for post-secondary education expenses. Minimum loan amount is $5,000. The average of SoFi Personal Loans funded in 2022 was around $30K. Information current as of 05/30/23. SoFi Personal Loans originated by SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS #696891 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org). See SoFi.com/legal for state-specific license details. See SoFi.com/eligibility for details and state restrictions.

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On-the-go snacking: Master the art of smart snacking with these 4 tips

2023-06-12T23:01:00

(BPT) – Amid the excitement of summer travel, one aspect that often poses a challenge is maintaining a healthy diet while on the go. Whether you are responsible for nourishing yourself or a whole family, snacking is a crucial part of traveling! Balancing the complexities of planning accommodations, eating, transportation and packing lists for multiple individuals can make healthy eating on the go seem like a daunting task.

Not to worry! By incorporating a touch of pre-trip preparation, you can guarantee tasty and nutritious snacks for you and your family throughout your entire journey. To help you travel smart this summer and beyond, registered dietitian Kristin Kirkpatrick, M.S., who has endorsed Quest Nutrition for several years, shares her expert four essential travel tips.

1. Nutrition is necessary

Most travel snacks lack nutritional value and fail to satisfy hunger. Avoid being hangry and tired by packing protein-rich snacks that will leave you feeling full for longer and boost energy levels.

Prepare a personalized trail mix by blending your preferred assortment of seeds, nuts and dried fruits. Also, consider including cheese sticks, fresh fruits and vegetables in your snack rotation.

2. Have options

Whether you like crunchy, salty or sweet snacks, it’s good to pack a variety. Offering different flavors and textures will ensure a satisfying experience during your journey.

It is easy to overindulge in sweets while traveling, so to satisfy your sweet tooth, opt for a protein-forward sweet treat like Quest Coconutty Caramel Candy Bites. These candy bites have coconut, caramel and almonds, are covered in a chocolatey coating and boast 5 grams of protein with less than 1 gram of sugar!* Pair these travel-sized candy bites with a bag of pretzels for the perfect blend of sweet and salty.

3. Convenience is key

Everyone can agree that finding your travel snacks crushed into dust puts a major damper on any trip. To avoid this, pack your snacks in airtight food containers. These containers not only help maximize space but also prevent any flattened goods.

Check your local store for bento boxes. These organized food containers are a great way to portion food and balance snack time. And there are plenty of size options, so you’re sure to find one that fits perfectly into your travel bag.

4. Plan ahead

When life gets in the way, it’s easy to forget to pack the essentials like snacks. Plan ahead by investigating the lay of the land at your destination. By knowing what’s available, you can be confident that you’ll find the options you are looking for.

If you’re staying at a hotel or Airbnb, research what food options are nearby. You can stock up on water, fruit, nuts and protein bars at a local grocery store and keep them in your room or seek out healthy restaurants nearby.

Add eating well to your packing list! Using these four tips, you’ll make eating healthy during travel a breeze so your family can enjoy every moment to the fullest.

*See product packaging for complete nutritional information