Category: Brandpoint Lifestyle

2024-05-08T10:01:00

(BPT) – May marks National Pet Month, and it’s a time to celebrate the love and companionship our furry friends bring into our lives; however, let’s not forget about the dogs still awaiting their forever homes. With over three million dogs entering shelters every year, adoption remains a critical solution for giving these pets the families they deserve. Sadly, due to a lack of resources, a significant number of rescue dogs are deprived of vital grooming which significantly improves their health, happiness and chance of adoption. That’s why pet industry leader Wahl and Greater Good Charities, a global nonprofit, have partnered again for the 13th annual Dirty Dogs Contest. Wahl donated grooming supplies to rescues and shelters nationwide, and they in turn shared amazing Before and After grooming photos — including the Top 10 Shelter Dog Makeovers of 2024. Vote for your favorite pup and help the organization affiliated with the dog win $10,000.

1. Pete is a resilient pup who endured neglect after his owner’s tragic passing. Rescued from a backyard, Pete was covered in filth and matting when he was brought to a shelter in Justin, TX, but with grooming and care, his true spirit emerged. Now, Pete is seeking a loving forever home where he can thrive and be cherished.

2. Winky found his way to a shelter in Palo Alto, CA, from a challenging home situation. Despite his history, he showed immense affection during his extensive grooming. It was during his grooming that staff realized he was missing one eye, and in turn affectionately named him “Winky.” Winky’s transformation was remarkable, and he soon found a loving forever home where he is thriving and living his best life.

3. Maddie, a stray with an unknown past, arrived in poor condition to a shelter in Franklin, TN, likely having endured neglect for some time. Fortunately, a compassionate local groomer stepped in to provide much-needed grooming, improving Maddie’s appearance and well-being.

4. Bella, a 12-year-old miniature poodle, arrived at a shelter in Phoenix, AZ, as a surrender due to her owner’s illness. As soon as she arrived, she was promptly pampered with a luxurious grooming and bath. A happy pup was revealed under all that matted and dirty fur, and it didn’t take long for her to find a forever home.

5. Bailey, an 8-year-old pooch from Philadelphia, PA, experienced a remarkable transformation after his previous owner’s illness left him in desperate need of grooming. Despite severe matting, Bailey’s playful energy shone through, and a spa day helped reveal his true personality. Now with a loving family, Bailey enjoys a happy life filled with affection and companionship.

6. Pancake is a one-year-old pup from Clearwater, FL, whose journey from neglect to love is truly heartwarming. Under a coat of severe matting, he was silently pleading for help. Pancake’s condition was so bad, in fact, his grooming had to be done under anesthesia. What emerged was a dog with a newfound joy for life, and within days, he captured the hearts of all who met him — including his new forever family.

7. Moe’s journey began with a heartbreaking discovery at his home where he was subjected to years of severe neglect and hoarding. Covered in filth and matted fur, he arrived at a shelter in San Francisco, CA, with wary eyes but a hopeful heart. After being washed and groomed, he slowly learned to trust, blossoming into a cuddly companion eager for affection. Now, Moe is ready for a brighter future, eager to embrace each new day with joy and security.

8. Dolly, a standard poodle, arrived at a rescue in Thompson Falls, MT, in dire need of grooming. Her filth and odor made it nearly unbearable for her rescuers to handle her. However, after a visit to the groomer and a much-needed bath, Dolly emerged as a stunning, red-furred beauty, quickly capturing the heart of a loving family.

9. Giuseppe’s arrival to a shelter in Espanola, NM, is a heartbreaking testament to neglect. Five pounds of matted fur covered up a host of health issues and rendered him unable to walk. Once groomed, Giuseppe could finally get the dedicated medical care and foster support he needed. Now this senior pup is living out his golden years in the comfort of a loving home.

10. Fred was rescued from a serious hoarding situation and brought to a shelter in Breinigsville, PA. Covered in matted fur and plagued by discomfort, he found relief after receiving a much-needed grooming and bath. The added attention of proper medical care transformed him into a brand-new dog. Fred was soon fostered by a compassionate couple mourning the loss of their previous dogs, and it was in this foster home that he found his forever family.

For more information on Wahl’s complete line of grooming products, including tips on how to pamper your own pooch, visit WahlUSA.com, or follow @WahlPets on Facebook, Instagram and X.

2024-05-07T08:19:00

(BPT) – There are over 80,000 vitamins and dietary supplements on the market, but not all are created equal. Seventy-four percent of Americans take dietary supplements to improve their quality of life.^[i] However, many are unaware that the quality of these products can vary greatly.

Most consumers are misinformed about how the dietary supplement industry is regulated, which can lead to inaccurate or dangerous assumptions about supplement quality.^[ii] Since 1994, dietary supplements have been regulated as a category of foods, meaning that they do not require U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval before they are sold to the public. For this reason, what is listed on a supplement label may not be what is actually in the bottle. Looking for products with independent third-party verification, like those verified through U.S. Pharmacopeia’s (USP) Dietary Supplement Verification Program, can offer consumers peace of mind that the supplements they consume are made up of what’s listed on the label.

A growing number of reports and recalls have raised concerns about inconsistent quality in the dietary supplement industry. For example, in 2022, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) conducted a study reviewing 30 dietary supplements with claims related to immune health.^[iii] Of these 30 supplements, 17 had inaccurate labels; 13 were misbranded, and nine had additional components detected that were not claimed on the label. Outcomes like this make it clear that without independent third-party verification, it’s hard for consumers to know what exactly is in the supplements they choose.

“Every year, the dietary supplement industry expands, thanks to increased consumer demand,” Michael Rashed, Director of Non-Pharmaceutical Programs at USP, said. “As we continue navigating a growing market of health and wellness products, it’s crucial for consumers to understand how supplements are regulated and to prioritize selecting products that have undergone third-party testing.”

Only products that meet USP’s rigorous testing, review and auditing criteria receive the USP Verified Mark. When consumers see this symbol, they know that USP has independently reviewed and tested the product to confirm it meets USP’s quality standards:

• Contains the ingredients listed on the label in declared strengths and amounts
• Does not contain harmful levels of specified contaminants
• Complies with FDA Good Manufacturing Practices
• Will break down and dissolve within a specified amount of time so the dietary ingredients can be released and absorbed by the body

In fact, in a USP-led survey of nearly 300 licensed healthcare practitioners, including dietitians, nutritionists, physicians, pharmacists, and nurse practitioners, the top three most important elements when recommending a dietary supplement were product quality, ingredient list, and quality assurance marks or seals.

“It’s of utmost importance that consumers can trust the quality of the supplements they are taking to support their health. The USP Product Finder is a searchable tool for all products that have earned the USP Verified Mark,” Rashed said. “We encourage consumers to use this tool so they can make informed choices when purchasing supplements.”

The product finder features over 150 dietary supplement formulas that have received the USP Verified Mark, including melatonin, multivitamins, prenatals, probiotics, and other popular vitamins and supplements. USP Verified Products are sold at major retailers, grocery stores, pharmacies, and wholesale retailers across the U.S., as well as online through product websites.

When purchasing new supplements or restocking favorites, follow these steps:

1. Use the USP Verified Product Finder to find trusted, quality supplements
2. Look for the USP Verified Mark
3. Consult with a healthcare provider before incorporating a new supplement into your routine

To find USP Verified products, visit: https://www.quality-supplements.org/usp_verified_products.

2024-05-07T08:01:00

(BPT) – From South to North, from West to East, anglers are hitting the water in pursuit of their favorite pastime — fishing. As temperatures start to rise, fish are on the move, and so are the anglers.

According to the American Sportfishing Association (ASA), America has an estimated 60 million anglers.

If you’re among those who enjoy time on the water, the angling pros at Rapala lures offer these tips to help you dial in your fishing so you can catch more and bigger fish.

1. Organize your tackle box – Spend more time fishing and less time searching for your fishing gear, by spending some time on those cold, rainy days organizing your fishing gear and tackle. Consider using clear tackle trays to organize your lures by species (bass, walleyes, trout, northern pike, etc.).

2. Step up to newer gear – Take a close look at your rods and reels. Consider replacing old, worn-out rods and reels with new modern gear that gives you the finesse and the muscle to put more fish in the boat.

3. Replace your hooks – The first point of contact with any fish, regardless of size, from brook trout to sailfish, is your hooks. Take the time to sharpen your hooks or replace old hooks with new professional-grade hooks, such as the RedLine Series by VMC. Don’t overlook changing the size and types of hooks you use to increase your ability to hook more fish.

4. WWJWD – What would Jacob Wheeler do? If you’re looking for an edge over the fish in your favorite fishing spot, consider doing what the pros do. Jacob Wheeler, one of the winningest bass fishing pros, has been using a new line of soft baits called CrushCity soft baits to put him consistently in the winning circle of America’s top bass tournaments. If it works for Wheeler, maybe it will work for you, too.

5. Change your fishing line – Contrary to popular beliefs, fishing line — even the best line — wears out over time as it rubs against rocks, weeds, dock posts, and even your rod guides. So, if you have line that’s been on your reel for three or more years, it’s time to replace it with new line, such as lines from Sufix, one of the leading fishing lines used by tournament pros.

6. Get new sunscreen – Do you have a bottle or tube of sunscreen sitting in your tackle box that’s so old you can’t even remember when you got it? All skin exposed to the sun is at risk of becoming burned. Replace that tube or bottle of old sunscreen with newer sunscreen, and stock up on lightweight, breathable fishing clothing with UV protection that lets you go all day long.

7. Invest in eyewear – Wear polarized sunglasses to protect your eyes from the sun, see fish in the water better, and protect your precious eyes from flying hooks.

8. Try something new – You don’t have to own a $50,000 bass boat to tie into a monster bass. A lot of anglers are discovering fishing from a kayak. It not only costs a lot less, it gives them access to some water, both freshwater and saltwater, that big boats simply cannot get to.

9. Leverage digital technology – Digital technology, such as digital scales, allow anglers to keep precise track of their catches and know exactly where they stand in tournament settings. No more guessing.

10. Revisit a classic – Sometimes, we get so focused on the shiny new latest gadget, that we forget about the classics that continue to produce. One such classic, is the Shad Rap, and now the Shad Rap Elite, which offers a new take on the original with premium components. Considered one of the best lures ever introduced, it continues to catch fish of all species.

2024-05-06T09:19:00

(BPT) – Sponsored by Citi

The ease of shopping online can offer customers greater flexibility and convenience, as well as access to a wider range of products. However, these expanded choices can sometimes lead to more time spent searching for deals.

If you’re looking to save money without spending too much time, it’s crucial to be strategic before you browse.

Here are tips savvy shoppers use to shop smarter online.

Make the most of free shopping tools

Finding deals quickly can be tough, but savvy shoppers know the latest tools can help. For example, the Citi Shop^SM browser extension provides an easy way to find savings by automatically searching over 5,000 online merchants for available offers and coupons.

According to a recent Citi study*, over one-third of Americans (35%) say it takes too long to find coupons or promo codes when shopping online, and 74% have abandoned an online purchase because they couldn’t find a deal. The Citi Shop browser extension helps eligible Citi^® credit cardmembers save time and money by finding savings.

To start using Citi Shop, cardmembers just need to add the extension to their mobile iOS device or desktop browser and enroll their eligible Citi credit card. While shopping online, users will receive alerts about available percent or amount back offers.

Visit Citi.com/CitiShopEnroll to add the extension.

Plan ahead

When it comes to online shopping, planning helps you stay on track and gives you more time to compare prices. Before firing up your laptop or phone, make a quick list of what you’re looking for. Your list could also include how much you’re willing to spend.

You could also try keeping a calendar of events like family birthdays, upcoming weddings and other important milestones so you don’t rush to buy something at the last minute.

Sign up for newsletters and alerts

For another smart move, try signing up for newsletters and enabling notifications from your preferred retailers to access exclusive deals and promotions. By doing so, you’ll receive timely alerts about special promotions, early access to sales and personalized recommendations. These exclusive perks may help you save money and update you on the latest deals.

Look for retailer incentives

If you write a product review or fill out a survey requested by a retailer, you could be eligible for perks like gift card drawings or discounts. Other retailers may offer price matching or adjustments if you see an item you just bought go on sale at another store a few days later.

If you want to save more time finding online deals, you can always try using the Citi Shop browser extension, which automatically searches for offers and coupons at checkout.

Set a budget

Track your monthly income and expenses to figure out what you may have left for special occasions, shopping or entertainment. After budgeting for necessities, try setting aside a monthly discretionary spending amount — and then stick to it.

Using these tips and tools, you can save time and tap into savings when you shop online.

*The Citi Shopping Survey was conducted by Wakefield Research among 1,000 nationally representative adults ages 18+ from the U.S., including the U.S. territories, in December 2023.

2024-05-06T09:01:00

(BPT) – There are certain places you come across that seem to be quintessentially Americana, like apple pie and ice cream, fireworks and the Fourth of July and college football. A destination that seamlessly captures the best of America — Rapid City, South Dakota.

Located in western South Dakota and the gateway to the Black Hills, Rapid City is a top destination for all ages with well-known experiences like Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial^®, Custer State Park, Badlands National Park and more. And while these are all worthy attractions, that’s just scratching the surface of this place.

This summer, plan to discover the unexpected. From diving into history to meeting reptiles, here are seven ways to experience the heart of the country on your vacation to Rapid City.

1. See where presidents live on. One of the most walkable downtowns in the Midwest, Rapid City’s urban core begs to be explored. It’s home to locally owned shops, restaurants, theaters, breweries and more, each contributing to the area’s vibrant energy. A few places to put on a must-visit list: Dakota Drum Company, Prairie Edge Trading Company, Art Alley and Tinder Box. Downtown is also where life-sized versions of 43 past presidents are located. New for 2024, bring the presidents to life with Visit Rapid City’s audio tour. Time it right and catch an event — or cool off in the splash pad — at Main Street Square.

Insider tip: For an overview of Rapid City, hop onboard the 90-minute trolley tour. Tours are available all summer long.

2. Walk through history. 2024 is the 150th anniversary of the Black Hills Gold Rush, which played a key role in establishing modern-day Rapid City. Experience gold rush history at the Journey Museum & Learning Center, Mt. Rushmore Black Hills Gold Factory, Hay Camp Brewing Company, Black Hills Caverns and aboard the 1880 Train, where passengers cruise past the remnants of old mines. Rapid City is located on the traditional lands of the Lakota and Dakota nations (among others), and visitors are encouraged to learn more about the country’s First Nations on guided tours or by visiting Crazy Horse Memorial^® and its on-site Indian Museum of North America^®.

3. Granite icons + the oldest ice cream recipe in America. No visit to Rapid City is complete without visiting Mount Rushmore National Memorial. Located less than 20 minutes away from Rapid, Mount Rushmore has an immersive visitor center, Avenue of Flags and on-site trails. The first ice cream recipe in America — courtesy of Thomas Jefferson’s recipe box — can also be found at Carver’s Café, which is located at the national memorial.

4. Dinosaur Park. Originally built to bring traffic to Rapid City from Mount Rushmore, Dinosaur Park has been welcoming visitors since 1936. With sweeping views of Rapid and the Black Hills, Dinosaur Park recently underwent renovations and is welcoming visitors with new accessible trails and pedestrian routes, site interpretation and more. The attraction is back open to the public on May 1.

5. Family-friendly fun. Rapid City is for the kids, in lots of different ways. From visiting bears to rushing down waterslides at WaTiki^® Indoor Waterpark Resort (South Dakota’s largest indoor waterpark), this is a city they will love. Kid-approved fun can be found at Reptile Gardens, Bear Country USA and Storybook Island, a magical park filled with storybook characters. Additional highlights include Chapel in the Hills, Fort Hays and Old MacDonald’s Farm.

6. Dig into bison, beer and ramen. Much like America is a melting pot of many cultures and lineages, Rapid City is a melting pot of food, with made-right-here brews, locally raised beef and bison and more making their way onto a bevy of menus throughout town. Find traditional American breakfast items at Tally’s Silver Spoon in downtown, bite into a bison steak at Dakota Steakhouse, savor fresh-made pasta at Sabatino’s Italian Ristorante, enjoy farm-to-table dishes at Diamond E Collective and relish over ramen and bison buns at Bokujo Ramen.

Insider tip: Spend some time sipping South Dakota’s flavors and craft cocktails at Windsor Block Bar or Firehouse Brewing Company (the oldest brewery in the state).

7. Road trip, South Dakota style. From the Black Hills to the Badlands, this region was made for road tripping. Using Rapid City as home base, it’s easy to explore western South Dakota. Cruise Needles Highway and see bison in Custer State Park. Tour Badlands National Park’s northern and southern units. Take a drive through Spearfish Canyon and stroll the cobblestone streets of Deadwood.

2024-05-06T09:01:00

(BPT) – Summer is just around the corner! With the kids out of school and beautiful weather on the way, it’s time to start planning a family vacation.

Family trips are a great way to bond, make memories and escape from the daily grind. If you’re overwhelmed by the idea of planning a trip, don’t worry. These five tips will help you create a getaway that everyone in your family will enjoy (with a little less stress).

1. Pick a destination

The first step to planning any vacation is picking a destination. As a family, brainstorm ideas and come to a consensus on where to go for your summer break.

You’ll need to answer a few questions to determine the best destination for your family. Will you road trip or fly to your destination? Does the destination have activities for everyone in the family? What will the weather be like when you visit? What is your plan for adventure and downtime? These questions will guide your family so you can pick the best vacation spot.

A simple way to make sure your location has something that everyone in your family will enjoy is to choose a resort. A great example to consider is Kalahari Resorts & Conventions, where families can simply park and stay. Everything your family needs is available under one roof!

At Kalahari, families can enjoy America’s largest indoor waterparks and massive outdoor waterpark spaces, complete with waterslides, pools, lazy rivers and dedicated children’s areas! They also have massive family entertainment centers with hundreds of arcade games, mini golf, escape rooms, bowling and more.

Have a foodie in your family? Dine at any of the resort’s award-winning signature restaurants or grab a quick bite to eat at one of the many grab-and-go options.

Looking for some pampering? Stop by the on-site, full-service spa. Don’t forget about the retail shops where you can buy souvenirs and gifts, or simply stock up on any items you forgot when packing.

2. Plan ahead

Once you’ve decided on a destination, it’s time to start planning. Planning ahead helps you maximize your summer vacation and avoid potential headaches. Without a game plan, you may become overwhelmed with all the choices available, especially if you are visiting an unfamiliar place. Also, make sure the whole family agrees on an itinerary, so you avoid any squabbles and lost time over where to go, what to do or where to eat.

Research the best family-friendly attractions, activities, and accommodations at your destination, and be sure to include options for each family member on the trip. Once you’ve gathered the information, sit your family down and have each member agree to the schedule.

3. Check for local events

Summer is packed with local events and festivals, no matter the destination. So, you’ll want to check ahead to see if there’s anything planned during your trip. When you attend these events, you get a glimpse into the local culture and add some excitement and variety to your vacation. But keep in mind this might also escalate prices and crowds — so be sure to weigh the positives with the negatives based on your family’s interests and needs. Explore your accommodation or local visitor bureau’s website to see if there are any recommendations for local events throughout the year.

4. Set a budget

Set a realistic budget for your summer vacation and stick to it, but make sure to account for any last-minute splurges like souvenirs or treats. A great way to help stay on budget is to look for bundles and family packages that include accommodations, add-on activities and/or dining. Kalahari Resorts, for example, offers myriad packages to add on to your experience — from VIP experiences and dining packages to spa packages. To learn more, visit KalahariResorts.com.

5. Relax and have fun!

Don’t forget the ultimate point of your family vacation: to bond and have fun with those you love! A summer trip is the perfect opportunity to reflect on the past year, create stronger relationships, and make memories that will last a lifetime! Be sure to take photos and videos to capture special moments. Make an effort to disconnect from technology and truly be present during the trip.

Using these five tips, you can leave behind the stresses and responsibilities of everyday life and make the most of your summer vacation. Happy travels!

2024-05-06T07:31:00

(BPT) – Did you know the average family spends less than an hour of quality time together per day? According to data from Pew Research Center, nine in ten people indicate that spending time with family is one of the most important things to them, but it can be difficult to prioritize.

Reunions can be the missing piece that helps families reconnect to share family history and traditions, creating a sense of belonging that is hard to replicate. While family reunions can have a positive impact on well-being, they can also be a daunting task. AARP members can unlock an abundance of discounts that make a memorable reunion that everyone will talk about for generations to come.

”Some of the longest standing traditions that families have are their reunions, which come in all shapes and sizes from small annual gatherings, to once in a decade parties,” said Steve Guilday, AARP Services Travel Director. “Because families don’t always live in the same city, these events require a lot of coordination and often double as a summer vacation. Taking advantage of existing membership discounts like those available for AARP members can make reunion travel and execution more financially friendly for all.”

Prepped and Primed

Whether bringing together a group of 30 or 300, family reunions require a good dose of planning. With so many moving parts — flights, hotels, transportation — the AARP Travel Center Powered by Expedia is the perfect one-stop shop for creating a seamless itinerary. Members save up to 10% on select hotels, 30% off car rentals from Avis and Budget and receive a $50 gift card with any flight package.

For out-of-town families, it’s nice to have the option to book a dependable rental car at a discounted rate to shuttle everyone around comfortably for planned activities. AARP members save up to 30% off base rates or up to 35% when selecting Pay Now and receive a 3% credit to apply to rentals within 12 months when booking a car with Avis. Plus, you get an upgrade on compact through full-size car class bookings, an additional driver at no cost, and more.

Location, Location, Location

Where families stay for the reunion can directly influence their overall enjoyment. Look for hotel options that are not only conveniently located by the event venue or airport, but near other areas to enjoy such as the local downtown area or parks.

Where Furry Friends Are Welcome

Families come in all shapes and sizes and for many, family includes pets. Many pet owners take their beloved animal along for travel, making pet-friendly lodging crucial. Remember to ensure for families with pets that there will be four-legged-friend approved hotels, particularly ones that can share a list of local pet-friendly wineries or breweries, restaurants, hiking trails and dog parks.

Thankfully, with your AARP member benefits, you and your pets are covered.

One pet-friendly option is Choice Hotels^®, which offers more than 3,500 pet-friendly properties globally; AARP members can save 10% on their reservation and some locations may offer extra amenities such as pet food, food dishes, water bowls and play areas.

With thousands of pet-friendly locations worldwide, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts has the perfect accommodations for members and their loyal pets at hotels like La Quinta^® by Wyndham and Baymont^® by Wyndham. AARP members can save 10% on the Best Available Rate at pet-friendly Hotels by Wyndham around the world.

A Last-Minute Helping Hand

You’ve made it to the reunion. You’ve secured your rental car and settled into your lodging. You’ve confirmed the caterer, but something feels like it’s missing. Even the most careful planners can overlook something. Whether you simply need napkins or anticipate a bigger problem like running out of food or want to stock up on snack items for your hotel room, Walmart+ is a membership that helps save you time and money. AARP members save $20 off the annual membership and enjoy benefits like free delivery from the store, free shipping with no order minimum, video streaming with Paramount+, gas savings, plus so much more.

Safe and Secure

The main focus of family reunions should be enjoying time with family, so make sure you don’t miss out on reconnecting because you’re worrying about home security while you’re away. AARP members can have peace of mind and save 5% on monthly home security monitoring with ADT™ Home Security equipped with intrusion monitoring, connected smoke and CO detection, and smart automation from video doorbells and security cameras to smart locks.

Homes aren’t the only things that need protecting, especially since most people consider pets to be just as big a part of their family as a human member. Whether you and your furbaby are at home or on the road AARP members save 10% on Fetch Pet Insurance monthly premiums for the lifetime of their pet’s policy, which covers qualifying care for injuries and illnesses, emergency vet visits, prescription meds and supplements, plus boarding fees for your pet should they require hospitalization.

Although the effort and expense of organizing a family reunion may seem intimidating, AARP member benefits make it easier to save, so all you have to worry about is enjoying the magic of being surrounded by generations of family.

To learn more about the benefits and discounts for AARP members to help you prepare for your family reunion, please visit aarp.org/save.

AARP member benefits are provided by third parties. AARP receives a royalty fee for the use of its intellectual property. These fees are used for the general purposes of AARP. Provider offers are subject to change and may have restrictions.

2024-05-06T08:01:00

(BPT) – Studies show that people who dine with others regularly eat healthier and report a better quality of life. It provides a sense of structure and belonging while offering greater opportunities for improved nutrition. Coming together over a meal can also provide meaningful ways to connect with others over shared beliefs and cultural interests.

2024-05-06T08:01:00

(BPT) – The enduring wisdom of the African proverb, “It takes a village to raise a child,” resonates across cultures, underscoring our collective responsibility toward nurturing the academic, social, and emotional development of our future leaders. In alignment with this timeless ethos, Teacher Appreciation Week serves as an ideal occasion to honor not only our teachers but also the often overlooked yet indispensable members of our children’s educational community. These unsung heroes, particularly substitute educators, provide crucial continuity and foster an environment of support and positivity, making them essential pillars in the comprehensive upbringing of our youth.

Kelly Education, the leading provider of education workforce solutions in the nation, proudly upholds a tradition of celebrating these anchors of operational stability through its annual Substitute Educator of the Year Award. This prestigious honor is extended to substitute teachers and school support staff who have made significant contributions to their school communities. Eligibility requires active employment with Kelly Education and a nomination from a school colleague that highlights the nominee’s positive impact on both students and peers. Winners of the award are recognized with a $5,000 bonus, in addition to a $1,500 donation to the school of their choice, reinforcing Kelly Education’s commitment to acknowledging the invaluable role of substitute educators in shaping future generations.

“One of my greatest joys is celebrating the work of our educators,” said Kelly Education President Nicola Soares. “These educators are extra special because they were nominated by their school partners for the positive impact they’ve had on their school community.”

Here are this year’s winners, who are changing students’ lives, one classroom at a time.

Jane Abrams, K-12 Substitute Teacher, of Aventura, Florida, found a way to recover from heartbreaking losses by returning to the field she loved, becoming a substitute educator. Her experience at Fulford Elementary has given her a whole new family.

“All of the teachers and staff welcomed me with open arms,” said Abrams. “This is a workplace of respect and congeniality — and the children filled my heart back up with joy and love.”

Abrams appreciates how Kelly Education gives her the freedom to work around her schedule, as well as providing insurance and perks like retail bargains and other incentives. She advises substitute educators to be positive, listen to what the other teachers have to say, and ask questions: “Leave a detailed account of what you accomplished or didn’t accomplish during the day, and remember — a teacher can change the world.”

Megan Mabry, Non-Instructional Substitute Educator, from Cabot, Arkansas, grew interested in education from her role as a mother. After earning her bachelor’s degree in business management and working for the U.S. Postal Service, Mabry wanted more involvement with her children’s education and better work-life balance. This led her to the flexible opportunity of becoming a Kelly Education substitute educator. She appreciates the long-term opportunities that can become permanent positions within a school district.

Mabry enjoys working in the student success center, where she interacts with all the students, encouraging them academically and helping build their self-confidence.

“One student who came in was working hard to keep her grades up all year,” said Mabry. “She visited recently to share that she’s achieving her goals of graduating and joining the Army National Guard this year and thanked me for all the encouragement.”

Saira Zamarripa, Early Childhood Substitute Educator, from Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, became a substitute educator after earning her bachelor’s degree in science from Southern Nazarene University. She is currently enjoying a long-term temporary position at Arthur Elementary School, where they recognized her with their “Caught You Being Good” award, which made her feel like an important part of the school community.

“What I like most about being a substitute teacher are the relationships I’ve built with students,” said Zamarripa. “I like that I can bring a little happiness into their lives because you never know what they’re dealing with away from school.”

Zamarripa appreciates the flexibility and responsiveness of Kelly Education staff and her relationships with school teachers and administrators.

Lucille Zeigler, Paraeducator, of Pelham, Alabama, attended Lawson State Community College before becoming a substitute teacher at Berry Middle School.

“What I love most about being a substitute teacher is the enthusiasm of the students who want to learn more and more,” said Zeigler. “I love to see the faces of students as they learn.”

She remembers an influential teacher in her life — her sixth-grade teacher, who helped her learn math to avoid embarrassment at the chalkboard. She reminds substitute educators to be patient, kind and good listeners.

“Don’t forget that you are there to help the classroom teacher,” Zeigler advised. “And it’s important to love what you do.”

Learn more about this year’s award winners at kellyeducation.com. Interested in substitute teaching opportunities near you? Visit mykelly.com.

2024-05-03T14:01:00

(BPT) – Every new puppy owner has a camera roll full of pictures, but don’t let that sweet puppy smile fool you — good dental health requires a plan.

By the age of three years, most dogs will have some sort of periodontal disease, according to the American Animal Hospital Association. When left untreated, periodontal disease can cause pain, infection, inflammation and other health problems for your best friend.

It’s important to ensure you have the necessary tools to keep your puppy happy and healthy. Don’t know where to start? Check out these three expert tips from veterinarian and puppy expert Dr. Callie Harris.

1. Establish a brushing schedule early on

Just like you, your dog needs their teeth brushed. Since they can’t do it on their own, it’s up to you to brush for them.

“Brushing your puppy’s teeth early on not only keeps them healthy but also supports a strong bond between pet and pet parent,” says Harris.

It’s important to establish teeth brushing as part of your puppy’s routine early on. Using flavored dog toothpaste (never human toothpaste!) and a soft-bristled toothbrush or a finger brush can help ease the process.

You may not be able to do a full toothbrushing session at first, but you can start by brushing your puppy’s teeth for a few seconds every day and work them up to a full session. Beginning a toothbrushing routine may also help reduce stress for potential future teeth cleanings at the vet. Remember to praise and reward them during and after brushing.

2. Offer chew toys or tasty dental chews

Around the time you take your puppy home — usually 12-16 weeks — they’ll be teething. As they lose their baby teeth and their adult teeth come in, they’ll follow their instincts to chew. While this instinct keeps their teeth clean, it could lead to your dog chewing on household items.

You can get ahead of negative chewing behavior by offering your puppy chew toys that are appropriate in size and don’t pose a choking hazard. Rubber dog toys with ridges or nubs are a great option for your pup, as they help remove plaque during chewing.

Dental chews are another great way to invest in your puppy’s oral health while providing a tasty treat. When choosing a chew for your four-legged friend, consider an option like Purina DentaLife Puppy Teething Chews.

“DentaLife Puppy Teething Chews can help establish a healthy dental routine by supporting a puppy’s natural drive to chew and their mental engagement,” said Harris. “The chews safely redirect chewing behavior during peak teething age, around 3+ months old, when puppies’ adult teeth emerge.”

DentaLife Puppy Teething Chews are a great tool for puppy parents to support their new pet through the teething stage and build up healthy dental habits. Designed and formulated by Purina animal care experts, they also contain DHA, EPA and calcium to support your puppy’s developing brain, teeth and bones.

3. Schedule professional dental cleaning

As your puppy grows and develops, it’s important to explore when your pup should get their first professional dental cleaning, as recommendations vary across breeds. During a cleaning, your vet can examine your pup’s teeth and gums for disease and remove hardened tartar. They’ll also be able to help you address any issues they find so you can keep your best friend happy and healthy for years to come.

Remember, establishing good dental habits as a puppy can set them up for dental success down the road. Using these three expert tips, you’ll be well on your way to keeping your puppy’s smile healthy and bright.