Category: Brandpoint Lifestyle

2024-08-15T08:01:00

(BPT) – Heart valve disease affects more than 5 million people in the United States. Despite this, 3 out of 4 U.S. adults know little to nothing about it.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is raising awareness about heart valve disease by launching a series of toolkits focused on providing information, resources and personal stories.

“CDC wants to help everyone get to know their heart,” said Janet S. Wright, MD, FACC, director of CDC’s Division for Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention. “We know early detection is only possible when patients and health care teams work together. Ongoing conversations about heart valve disease risk factors can help identify when referrals may be needed and ensure connection to additional care or treatment.”

Knowing your heart includes learning how it should function. The heart works by pumping blood throughout the body; with each heartbeat, your heart valves open and close to keep blood moving in the right direction. Heart valve disease occurs when your heart valves don’t work like they should, which makes the heart strain and work harder.

Heart valve disease can be congenital — something you are born with — or it can develop over time due to aging, certain infections, radiation for cancer treatment, or other underlying health conditions. Signs of a congenital heart valve condition may be present during prenatal care or can be detected through newborn screening or later pediatric check-ups.

Early diagnosis of heart valve disease is critical. Research has shown that diagnosis and treatment among Black, Hispanic/Latino and Asian populations are lagging. Women are also more likely than men to be diagnosed later and to experience worse health outcomes from this condition.

Joy Spencer Smith learned about her family history of heart valve disease and paid close attention to a murmur that was detected in her 40s. Although diagnosis of a form of heart valve disease called aortic stenosis came in her 70s, she and her primary care physician had been closely monitoring the murmur. Joy credits being aware of her risks and her overall health for helping her recognize that the abnormal burning sensations in her chest were a warning sign.

“Once you’re told you have any kind of heart condition, as the heart is the soul and the life of the body, you should learn about it,” Joy said. “You should get involved. You should ask questions.”

Learning about your family medical history and individual risk — along with getting screened and recognizing potential symptoms — can help you take steps to protect your heart and the hearts of your loved ones.

You know your body best. Don’t ignore anything that feels “off.” Your health care team can listen to your concerns and, with a stethoscope, listen to your heart. Based on what that exam reveals, you may be referred for an echocardiogram, an ultrasound of the heart, or other testing.

Visit cdc.gov/KnowYourHeart for heart valve disease resources and information.

2024-08-14T08:37:00

(BPT) – The pet care world has seen many dynamic changes over the past few years, such as the growth of the pet supplement category, new pet food niches and high-tech pet-related products. Pets’ lives are better because of it, and in turn, that makes humans’ lives better, too.

One company leading the charge in pet care innovation is Purina. You probably know this brand for their high-quality pet food, but they also invest ample time and significant funding into numerous programs that pave the way for a bright future for people and their pets.

“At Purina, we ask ourselves on a daily basis ‘what’s next?’ when it comes to finding ways we can improve the relationships between pets and their families, and one of the many ways we pursue the ‘next’ is through our corporate venturing division, 9 Square Ventures,” said David Narkiewicz, chief legal officer for Nestle Purina PetCare North America.

9 Square Ventures brings together the deep expertise that Purina has been developing for more than a century and pairs their resources with emerging pet care businesses to support startups in several ways ranging from mentorship to investment. Here are a few ways they work together to invest in the future of pet care:

Investing capital in startups

Since 9 Square Ventures was founded in 2015, the organization has made capital investments in a portfolio of startups that featured both smart and skilled entrepreneurs and highly relevant innovations in the pet care category.

One of the first investments was in a pet tech company that commercialized a smart cat litter device protected by patents. After several rounds of investments, Purina acquired the entire business and has recently updated and re-launched its technology as Petivity Smart Litter Monitor.

Another notable investment is Bar K, which was driven by Purina’s desire to support the successful launch of a truly incredible destination for dogs and their people. Bar K features a fully staffed and thoughtfully designed dog park, modern bar, restaurant and event space all centered around the human-dog bond.

“One of Bar K’s three locations can be found right in our backyard in St. Louis, Missouri, and it is a favorite destination for my family and so many members of the Purina family. In fact, USA Today recently named Bar K as the best dog park in America,” said Narkiewicz.

Offering mentorship and category expertise

In 2016, Purina created the Pet Care Innovation Prize (PCIP) program to formally engage with pet industry startups. Over the past eight funding cycles, the program has been the catalyst for 40 early-stage start-ups by providing no-strings-attached funding and offering a platform for growth.

Every year, startups from across the U.S. and around the world enter their business to be part of the program and five winners are selected and awarded a cash prize and mentorship from Purina’s in-house experts including areas like R&D, marketing, procurement, logistics and operations.

Finalists also come to Purina’s HQ campus in St. Louis for a weeklong bootcamp to network, meet with pet industry experts and receive coaching support to prepare for a final pitch to win a grand prize at Global Pet Expo, the pet industry’s largest trade show.

Since the program started, several PCIP businesses have been featured on the reality show “Shark Tank” and some have achieved remarkable investments and acquisitions. Purina’s commitment to emerging talent is a testament to the company’s dedication to nurturing innovation.

Connecting startups to learn, grow and win together

Recognizing the value and importance of connections, Purina also established the Pet Care Innovation Network in 2019. Made up of more than 50 pet care startup companies, this extraordinary community provides a platform for startups to network, share insights and foster collaborations as they work to grow their businesses.

The Pet Care Innovation Network helps like-minded innovators build relationships, think bigger and provide support to each other. Quarterly networking events across the country and a yearly meetup at Purina’s St. Louis headquarters enable members to connect with potential investors and each other, amplifying the ripple effect of innovation across the pet care landscape.

Inside-Out Innovation

In addition to inspiring and supporting external initiatives, Purina also has a robust internal R&D program and countless workstreams to drive innovation within the company.

“Our commitment to innovation is not just about creating products; it’s about cultivating an ecosystem where creativity and curiosity thrive inside and outside of our walls. Whether it’s through driving internal innovation or investing in startups through 9 Square Ventures, we are deeply committed to shaping the future of pet care. It’s one of the reasons that my dog, June, and I love coming to work every day,” said Narkiewicz.

2024-08-13T10:01:00

(BPT) – As summer comes to a close, the back-to-school rush begins. While exciting for some, returning to class is often paired with feelings of uncertainty and anxiety — but what if it could be different? Your best new back-to-school tips may come from an unlikely source: the U.S. Army.

In 2021, the Army introduced the Future Soldier Preparatory Course (FSPC) — a program designed to help young adults meet the academic and physical fitness requirements needed to serve in the Army. With a course graduation rate of 95%, the FSPC has equipped thousands of trainees with the skills needed to achieve their goals and rise the ranks as a Soldier.

So whether you’re trying to make the team, make the grade or make new friends (or if you have your eyes set on service) read on for tips from the leaders of the FSPC on how you can make this year your best yet.

Fuel Your Body to Better Your Mind.

It’s no secret that health and nutrition are tied directly to performance in school; students who are eating the right foods, getting good sleep and staying active have more mental and physical energy to take on the school day. The FSPC’s fitness track is rooted in the Army’s Holistic Health and Fitness (H2F) system, which aims to provide the resources needed to foster the physical, mental, nutritional, sleep and spiritual health of Soldiers. Capt. Steven Fusco, Company Commander of the fitness track, recommends creating a colorful plate at each meal, finding a regular form of exercise you enjoy and getting eight hours of shut-eye a night. You can incorporate the Army’s holistic approach to health and wellness into your routine to keep you sharp for test day and every day.

Beat Burnout Before It Starts.

Another critical piece of your fitness — and academics — is mental health. Class, extracurriculars and everyday stressors can all take their toll and lead to burnout. Carve out intentional time for breaks and fun amid studying and responsibilities to alleviate stress and return to tasks with a good mindset. Students in FSPC rely on their drill sergeants and fellow trainees for support, free time and encouragement. In the same way, look to friends, family and others in your support system to help keep you going.

Set and Go for Goals.

Every successful mission starts with a plan. Former FSPC drill sergeant Sgt. 1st Class Cameron Tucker is now the acting first sergeant of the program, and says that FSPC students set attainable but ambitious academic and fitness goals for themselves at the start of the four-week program. At the start of the school year, reflect on what you want to accomplish by the end and work backward with short-term goals to get there. And make sure they’re specific; rather than say you want to study more, plan to put a set number of hours toward studying per week. Having a goal in mind makes you more likely to stick to it and get to that feeling of accomplishment.

Find Mentorship, Then Pay It Forward.

After successfully completing the FSPC, trainees officially embark on their Army journey — but many still have questions about the wide variety of jobs and opportunities available in the Army. As a former Army medic, and now a leader in the FSPC’s academic track, 1st Sgt. Eric Immel stresses the importance of being a mentor to those in the early stages of their careers, and serving as an example for what is possible as an Army Soldier. No matter where you are in your academic journey, it is never too early to find a mentor to help identify areas for growth and reflect on how far you’ve come. And when the time comes, pay it forward by providing guidance and a listening ear for others.

These tips have a track record of success: In just the first year and a half of the program, the Future Soldier Preparatory Course helped 15,000 hopeful Soldiers achieve the rigorous standards for enlisting in the Army, with marked improvements in academic and fitness benchmarks.

Back to school doesn’t have to mean back to the same old. Making these small changes can help you go through the school day like a Soldier and end the year ready for the next.

2024-08-13T09:01:00

(BPT) – The back-to-school season can be a hectic time for parents juggling school runs, work responsibilities and day-to-day home tasks. With so much on your plate, planning and cooking meals may slip down your priority list. To help manage this busy period, culinary expert and Bob Evans^® spokesperson Kristina Vänni has seven clever cooking hacks for making mealtime easier and more efficient.

1. Make a sweet breakfast topping in minutes

Have a spoonful or two of honey left in a glass jar? Add a tablespoon or so of butter and a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg. Place in the microwave on high power for about 30 seconds and voilà! You’ve just made a delicious topping for pancakes, waffles, French toast or biscuits perfect for breakfast and weekend brunch.

2. Cook breakfast sandwiches with minimal cleanup

Breakfast sandwiches are a delicious and simple meal packed with protein to fuel your family throughout the morning. However, making them can leave your stovetop greasy. Vänni recommends cooking Bob Evans^® Pork Sausage Patties with a mesh screen over the pan to contain splatter.

Bonus tip: As the sausage cooks, split precooked biscuits in half and lay them cut side down on the shield. When the sausage patties are done, the biscuits will be warm, soft and ready to use for the best-ever breakfast sandwiches.

3. Test your baked goods with spaghetti

Baking a cake for a kid’s birthday party or muffins for an after school snack? It’s always important to test your baked goods for doneness before removing them from the oven. Don’t have a skewer or toothpick on hand? No problem! In a pinch, grab a piece of uncooked spaghetti to test your cakes.

4. Avoid watered-down punch with large cubes

When making a bowl of punch for a sporting event or school celebration, the last thing you want is a watered-down beverage. Instead of using regular-sized ice cubes, which melt quickly, opt for larger ice cubes. You can easily make your own giant ice cubes by freezing water in a jumbo muffin tin.

5. Spice up dinner sides with leftover chips

Don’t throw away the leftover tortilla chips and crumbs at the bottom of the bag! Instead, use them to enhance your Bob Evans^® Single-Serve Macaroni & Cheese.

After microwaving the mac and cheese, stir in a quarter teaspoon of taco seasoning or chipotle powder and let it stand for two minutes. Once the dish is ready to serve, crush the chips in the bag and sprinkle the tasty crumbs on top. This adds a unique boost of texture and flavor to your favorite quick and easy mac and cheese meal!

6. Grate cheese with ease

Before grating cheese, wipe the grater with a little cooking oil. This will keep the shreds from sticking to the grater and make it much easier to clean when you’re done!

7. Keep your rolls warm with hidden aluminum foil

When serving dinner rolls, hide a piece of aluminum foil under a decorative napkin in your roll basket. This will help the rolls stay hot longer while still maintaining the aesthetic of your dinner table setting.

Embrace the back-to-school season with confidence by using these easy, stress-free hacks to spend less time cooking and cleaning while creating meals that will have your family asking for seconds! For more mealtime tips and tricks and to find fresh, quick-to-table breakfast and dinner products, visit www.BobEvansGrocery.com.

2024-08-13T07:59:00

(BPT) – Want to know what common life skills 20-somethings are most unprepared for when leaving home? What percentage call their parents at least once a week for advice on household chores? Read on to find out!

2024-08-14T07:01:00

(BPT) – More than 60% of Americans feel they are in a better place to achieve their goals than generations that came before them, according to Schwab’s eighth annual Modern Wealth Survey, an examination of how Americans think about saving, spending, investing and wealth. Boomers lead the charge, with 66% believing they are more or as likely as older generations to reach their goals, followed by Gen X (63%), Millennials (62%) and Gen Z (60%).

One factor likely driving the positivity across generations is the rise in the number of Americans investing in the stock market. Schwab’s survey data shows that almost three in five Americans (58%) are investing today. This is in line with recent Federal Reserve data, which is up from 53% in 2019 and is the highest on record.

When asked specifically why they are in better financial shape than previous generations, Schwab’s survey reveals that Americans believe they now have more ways to build wealth (50%), increased accessibility to investing (46%) and additional investment options available to them (46%). Gen Z, which starts with those born in the late 1990s, notes that a top reason for their financial confidence is improved access to investing. Gen Z began investing when they turned 19 years old on average, nearly half the age of when Boomers started investing (35), according to Schwab survey findings.

“There has never been a better time to be an investor, and it’s encouraging to see that a majority of Americans are engaged with their personal finances and building long-term wealth, particularly younger generations who are beginning to save and invest earlier in their lives,” said Jonathan Craig, Head of Investor Services at Charles Schwab. “During the pandemic, we saw an increase in the number of Americans investing, but there are a lot of factors driving this trend that were in place before that and continue to drive investment activity now. Industry changes such as lower costs and minimums to invest and get advice, broader access to sophisticated platforms and tools, and a proliferation of investing information have all contributed to making investing more accessible than ever before. Increasing access to investing has been Schwab’s core mission from day one, and it’s still at the heart of everything we do today.”

Schwab’s survey shows nearly 70% of Americans are confident in their investment strategy and point to the availability of financial advice and knowledge (51%) and the ability to easily research companies and investments (37%) as top reasons. Gen Z, the most confident of the generations, says that learning about investing at an early age is the biggest factor for their confidence. Additionally, more than a quarter of Gen Z respondents report that they were taught about investing in school, significantly more than older generations.

Despite increased levels of investing, survey respondents admit there’s more they can do, with only 18% saying they are currently on top of their finances. Nearly one-third (32%) feel they are on track to being on top of their finances and another one-third (34%) note that they need to make changes to feel more in control. One key area for improvement among Americans is financial planning. Schwab’s survey finds that only 36% of Americans have a written financial plan. Among those who do, 76% say it makes them feel more in control of their finances and nearly all (96%) say they feel confident that they will reach their financial goals.

“Investing and financial planning are more accessible and more affordable today than ever before, and while Americans are increasingly engaged with their finances overall, there is still room for improvement when it comes to more formalized financial planning,” said Rob Williams, CFP^®, Managing Director of Financial Planning at Charles Schwab. “When clients begin the financial planning journey, they discover that there is much more to a financial plan than a document. Today’s financial plans feature interactive digital tools designed to track progress and assess how changes in your life goals or circumstances may influence your financial strategy.”

To learn more about financial planning and access an array of goals-based calculators, tools, and educational planning content, visit Schwab’s Financial Planning Hub.

About the Modern Wealth Survey

The online survey was conducted by Logica Research from March 4, 2024, to March 18, 2024, among a national sample of 1,000 Americans aged 21 to 75. An additional 200 Generation Z Americans completed the study. Quotas were set to balance the national sample on key demographic variables. Detailed results can be found at https://www.aboutschwab.com/schwab-modern-wealth-survey-2024.

(0824-H6SP)

2024-08-13T12:01:00

(BPT) – Golden hour is the most magical — and photogenic — time of day. Shortly before sunset, golden hour is known for warm, soft, diffused light; long, lazy shadows and an almost otherworldly glow that makes the landscape and everyone in it look their best. Professional photographers seek out this time of day because of its stunning natural lighting, and the rest of us with our smartphone cameras know it’s the perfect time to snap a selfie.

Unfortunately, golden hour is also a peak time for mosquito activity. It’s a little hard for you to capture the moment when you’re swatting those buzzing pests. OFF!^® repellents teamed up with Los Angeles-based adventure travel photographer Tiffany Nguyen to help you capture every sunset without mosquitoes, making it easier to enjoy the moment.

Here are Tiffany’s best tips for getting great sunset photos.

Don’t forget to check the forecast. I always like to double-check the weather forecast to make sure I’m not trekking to the perfect location just for it to start raining at the worst possible time. The Weather Channel app has always been reliable for me, plus it has everything I need in one place — weather forecast, sunset times, and now, the local mosquito forecast from OFF!Cast Mosquito Forecast™! Just pop in your ZIP code and you can see a seven-day forecast of mosquito activity in your area.

Don’t miss the shot swatting away and dodging mosquitoes. I always apply mosquito repellent when I head outside to help ensure I’m not distracted by pests. My favorites to use are OFF!^® Clean Feel insect repellents because they are fragrance-free, feel good on my skin and help keep the mosquitoes away so I can stand still long enough to capture the perfect sunset photo.

Don’t forget to check the lighting. Before deciding where to shoot, it’s important to determine whether the lighting at a location is better for sunrise or sunset.

Don’t use the wrong camera settings. When shooting in well-lit conditions, using a low ISO setting is best to prevent excess light from affecting your final image. Adjusting the ISO based on the available light will help ensure a clearer and more professional-looking result.

Don’t shoot directly into the sun. If you’re taking a sunset photo outdoors, you can enhance the quality of your picture by partially blocking the sun with an object or a person. This technique can help create a more balanced and evenly exposed image.

Whether you choose OFF!^® Clean Feel Aerosol, OFF!^® Clean Feel Spritz, or new this season OFF!^® Clean Feel Gel, these products are easy to use and provide long-lasting mosquito protection. Head to OFF.com to learn more about OFF!^® Clean Feel repellents.

Now, go out and snap that perfect sunset photo!

2024-08-09T12:31:00

(BPT) – This time of year isn’t just back-to-school time, it’s also “back-to-sport” season! As kids head back to the classroom and onto the field, it’s time to get them geared up and ready to learn, play and have fun. To help you find great deals for apparel, shoes and gear this fall, Academy Sports + Outdoors is your best destination for budget-friendly and trend-forward back-to-school shopping.

At Academy Sports + Outdoors, you’ll find kids’ necessities like shoes, backpacks, lunch boxes, apparel, sports equipment and more. Best yet, because back-to-school isn’t just for kids, you’ll find plenty of gear for busy, active parents, too.

Here’s a look at top products to get your whole family ready for back-to-school AND back-to-sport season.

Backpacks every kid and parent will love

Nike Brasilia Mesh 9.0 Training Backpack — There’s plenty of room in this durable backpack, with two large main compartments and a laptop sleeve to hold a computer or tablet. External pockets organize small items, allowing easy access to drink bottles or snacks. The padded shoulder straps provide a comfortable fit, and the water-resistant design helps keep everything dry.

Nike Hayward Backpack — You’ll appreciate the durability of this 100% densely woven polyester fabric. The main zippered compartment provides secure storage with enough space to fit most 15-inch laptops. The side pockets keep water bottles and other essentials accessible, while the front bungee system with a cinch cord lets you carry additional necessities hands-free.

The North Face Women’s Jester Backpack — You can carry everything you need in this backpack. Constructed with durable heathered polyester fabric, this water-repellent pack helps keep your gear dry while the main compartment stashes books, binders and electronics. The FlexVent™ Suspension system combines shoulder straps, a lumbar panel and padded back panel for comfortable carrying. Plus, the 360-degree reflectivity promotes visibility in low-light conditions.

Hydrate and fuel up throughout the day with these water bottles and lunch boxes

Stanley 20 oz. Go Flip Fixed Lid Straw Tumbler — Sip on your cold (or hot!) beverage all day with this tumbler from Stanley. The stainless steel, BPA-free construction offers long-lasting use, and the double-wall vacuum insulation helps maintain your drink’s temperature for hours. Even better, the easy-carry stationary handle makes it easy to transport — and it’s dishwasher safe for convenient cleaning.

YETI Daytrip Lunch Box — Packing your kids’ lunch is a breeze with this YETI lunch box. Its water-resistant exterior helps protect all the food, while the ColdCell™ Flex insulation keeps food fresh. The leakproof liner allows for easy cleaning, and the thermo snap closure makes sure everything inside stays secured.

Nike Futura Hard Liner Lunch Bag — Opt for extra durability when you pack a lunch for school with this dependable lunch bag. The polyester material affords durability, while the PEVA insulation helps keep contents cold. The handle strap allows for convenient carrying and the allover print delivers a stylish touch.

L.L.Bean Tie Dye Lunch Box — You’ll enjoy the colorful, retro fun of this style when you bring along your favorite lunch or snacks in this lunch box. You’ll also love how the tough construction is built to last and the internal mesh pocket conveniently fits an ice pack.

YETI Rambler Jr. Water Bottle — It’s easy to stay hydrated and happy with this water bottle. The double-wall vacuum insulation helps drinks stay cold, while the stainless-steel construction is strong and durable. The No Sweat™ design helps keep hands dry, and the straw cap is resistant to leaks.

Owala Kids’ FreeSip 16 oz Stainless Steel Bottle — This water bottle has a spout with a built-in straw for easy sipping to help kids stay hydrated all day long. The stainless-steel construction stands up to wear and tear, while the triple-layer insulation helps keep beverages at the optimal temperature. And parents — the wide opening lets you easily add ice or clean out the bottle.

Classic styles for kids and teens to sport all year long

Adidas Adult Samba Shoes — This shoe isn’t just a soccer icon, it’s been a style staple since 1949, offering clean lines, bold stripes and that unmistakable gum sole. Its full-grain leather upper provides a luxurious feel and unmatched durability, with a soft lining and comfortable fit. The timeless design complements any outfit, from joggers and jeans to skirts and dresses.

Crocs Kids’ Classic Clogs — Whether for school or play, your kids will have fun wearing these classic clogs. They feature Croslite foam cushion for comfort and have an adjustable heel strap for a custom fit. Even better, the shoes are odor-resistant and easy to clean for lasting use.

Magellan Outdoors Girls’ Seersucker Short Sleeve Fishing Shirt Dress — Keep your child comfy in this stylish shirt dress. The moisture-wicking design will keep them cool, while the UPF 30 rating protects from the sun. The chest pockets offer convenient space for storage, and the 100% polyester construction provides comfort and durability for the whole day.

Magellan Outdoors Boys’ Casting Crew Print Logo Fishing T-shirt — Kids can play all day in this comfortable t-shirt. The UPF 50+ protection helps keep your skin safe in the sun, and the 100% recycled polyester construction withstands wear and tear while still feeling soft. Best yet, the moisture-wicking technology helps kids stay cool.

Nike Women’s Dri-FIT Crew Neck French Terry Sweatshirt — As the weather starts to cool down into the fall, teens can stay comfy in class wearing this sweatshirt from Nike, which is made of cotton and polyester fabric for a soft and lightweight feel.

Adidas Men’s Badge of Sport Essentials T-shirt — This classic t-shirt from adidas is the perfect addition to any outfit. The 100% cotton construction ensures comfort while also resisting wear and tear, and the brand graphic design highlights your kids’ sporty side.

Gear up for your favorite sports

Under Armour Boys’ Football Practice Jersey — Help your aspiring football pro show off their skills at practice in this stylish football jersey. Constructed with 100% polyester material, it provides quick-drying comfort while the HeatGear^® technology wicks away sweat to keep athletes cool and dry.

Riddell Boys’ Pursuit Football Shoulder Pads — Ensure young athletes stay safe on the field with these shoulder pads featuring integrated deltoid pads for upper arm protection. The extended arches and PP caps help ensure great protection and durability when it matters most. The Z-Pad attachment system makes taking them on and off a breeze, and the epaulet straps deliver a great fit.

Nike Men’s Alpha Menace 4 Shark Football Cleats — Players will own the field in comfort and control with cleats that conquer every cut, accelerate past defenders and dig in for sharp stops with flexible Nike Fastflex technology. A breathable mesh upper keeps feet cool, while the supportive synthetic leather keeps them locked in. They’re built to last, with durable construction and strategic rubber studs for all-field traction.

Nike Varsity Volleyball Knee Pads — Protect joints in comfort with these volleyball knee pads. The Dri-FIT technology prevents accumulation of sweat and moisture to keep players dry, and the open knit construction offers comfortable ventilation. The shock-absorbing foam prevents damage from harsh impacts, while the side cushioning offers additional comfort.

Mizuno Women’s Victory Volleyball Shorts — Players can dig deep during games and practices wearing these comfortable volleyball shorts. The polyester/spandex fabric and wide waistband deliver a soft, supportive feel that’s great for gameplay, while the Mizuno™ logo lends a touch of sporty style.

School drop-off essentials for Mom

Freely Women’s Mia Belt Bag — Secure your small belongings in this handy belt bag. The two-way molded zipper provides easy access to your cash, cards, keys or other essentials while keeping them secure. The interior pockets allow easy organization and the adjustable strap ensures a snug fit while you’re on the go, getting kids to and from school and all their activities.

Jadelynn Brooke Women’s Ready to Play Romper — You’ll enjoy comfort and casual style in this fun romper. The 95% cotton and 5% spandex construction provides a comfortable, stretchy fit, and the oversize pockets offer room for your everyday essentials. You can also use the adjustable straps for a custom fit.

Birkenstock Women’s Arizona Essentials EVA Sandals — This classic sandal is a lightweight, water-friendly sandal molded after the iconic cork original. Providing true comfort and support, these are perfect for moms on the move. The roomy toe box allows toes plenty of freedom and full movement, and the arches provide full-foot support, ideal for recovery or all-day wear.

Freely Women’s Mandy Skort — This fun skort from Freely is a sporty, comfortable option perfect for on-the-go wear and is available in three different solid colors: black, blue and green. The 15.5-inch skort lets you express your spirit and your style — all on your own terms.

Stanley 40 oz Companion Sling — Enjoy hands-free hydration on the go thanks to this handy sling. It has a two-snap closure to keep your water bottle secure, while the detachable crossbody strap lets you keep your hands free while running errands or corralling little ones. The three-pocket design offers plenty of storage space to secure essentials and keep them close at hand.

Shop academy.com, use the Academy mobile app or visit your nearest Academy store to find these deals and more for a great start to your family’s back-to-school season.

2024-08-08T10:47:00

(BPT) – By Kim Kyoung-ae, Open Source Task Leader of Software Engineering R&D Lab at LG Electronics

Approximately 70 percent of South Korean companies involved in software development use open-source software (OSS), according to the Korea National IT Industry Promotion Agency. OSS is easily accessible and can be utilized by users worldwide through online platforms like GitHub, enabling developers to create, develop, manage and share code. While OSS offers numerous benefits — from cost effectiveness to customizability and flexibility — it also presents significant drawbacks, including the prevalence of malicious code and security vulnerabilities that can spread rapidly.

The global use of OSS has increased, not only on the web and in various applications but also in software embedded in home appliances and telecommunications equipment. As its adoption has spread, new threats to digital products and online services have emerged and multiplied. Cybersecurity incidents now occur daily, with the software supply chain being a common target for cyberattacks. According to PwC’s 2024 Global Digital Trust Insights survey, the proportion of companies experiencing data breaches costing more than USD one million has risen from 27 percent to 36 percent year-over-year.*

To prevent and defend against cyberattacks, various efforts are being made to ramp up software supply chain security, particularly in the U.S. and Europe. The U.S. government has mandated that any company contracted to supply software to a federal agency must submit a self-attestation form confirming compliance with safe software development practices. Similarly, the European Union has proposed a bill mandating the submission of a “software bill of materials” (SBOM). An SBOM is a comprehensive list of the components within a software resource and has emerged as an effective means to enhance supply chain security.

The Korean government is also actively responding to the rise in advanced cyberattacks targeting software supply chains. Earlier this year, Korea’s Digital Platform Government Committee, along with the Ministry of Science and ICT and the National Intelligence Service, created the ‘Software Supply Chain Security Guidelines 1.0.’

These guidelines contain detailed information on minimum SBOM requirements, software security vulnerability inspection criteria, the use of government-supported test beds, and how to specify and utilize software components. Easy to use and follow, the guidelines also include cases verified through last year’s demonstration project for field application, organized by the Korean government.

Large companies, including LG Electronics, are addressing software security vulnerabilities with their own SBOM tools and management procedures. In today’s business environment, software development typically involves the use of OSS and a collaborative system involving multiple partner companies. To ensure the security of the entire software supply chain, it is crucial that each participant plays their role well — taking all necessary steps and using all available tools to prevent security breaches.

For this reason, LG is helping other companies to effectively manage SBOM by releasing the source code of FOSSLight — LG’s in-house developed SBOM tool. FOSSLight can accurately detect a specific piece of OSS, monitor it for security vulnerabilities and retrieve any associated licenses. As the project for open source governance, FOSSLight consists of FOSSLight Hub, an integrated system that can manage open source, and FOSSLight Scanner, which can analyze open source.

LG’s commitment to ensuring security isn’t anything new. At CES 2024, LG CEO William Cho redefined AI as ‘Affectionate Intelligence’ and shared the company’s aspiration to pursue Responsible Intelligence. LG Shield, the company’s AI-based security system, will be applied to every aspect of customer-data collection, storage and usage, and will also be used to protect the software supply chain.

Ultimately, SBOM enhances an organization’s ability to identify and respond to software security vulnerabilities in advance. In addition to preventing organizational information, digital infrastructure, and customer data from being compromised, SBOM can also improve the overall quality of the software used by companies. Furthermore, because it promotes greater transparency in the software supply chain, SBOM is expected to play an important role in strengthening reliability in overseas markets.

This effort was prominently featured in a panel discussion at the OECD Global Forum on Digital Security for Prosperity in July. The panel, titled “Open-source software and vulnerability treatment,” delved into the specific challenges and solutions related to open source software vulnerabilities. The discussion highlighted how both proprietary and open-source software are affected by the reality that increased code complexity often results in more vulnerabilities. The session provided an in-depth exploration of the unique aspects of open-source software and its ecosystem in addressing these issues.

In the future, we hope that the adoption of SBOM will increase throughout the ICT industry, bringing about a safer and more transparent OSS ecosystem that benefits all companies.

* https://www.pwc.com/bm/en/press-releases/pwc-2024-global-digital-trust-insights.html

2024-08-08T16:52:38

(BPT) – If you struggle to maintain smooth skin, free from unwanted hair all summer long, you might wonder how champions from a Team USA athlete to a top dermatologist manage it.

Team USA track and field athlete Tara Davis-Woodhall is competing in Paris this summer for her second Olympics, and she has a go-to hair removal brand she’s been relying on since her teens … it’s Nair, and she is loving the recently reformulated Nair™ products, now made with fresh scents for a pleasant experience that helps make the most of your skin.

A champion’s choice

Taking care of her skin so it always looks and feels great is one task Davis-Woodhall is happy to check off her list of things to do, so she can focus all her attention on this summer’s goal: training and competing in the Olympics.

“Oat Milk and Vanilla Body Cream is my favorite scent,” said Davis-Woodhall. “I love how it smells, and how quick and easy it is to use.”

For your busy summer — even if it doesn’t involve international travel and global Olympic competition — you can champion your skin by trying reformulated Nair products that work like magic: Now you see hair, now you don’t! Best yet, the products also help your skin look, feel and smell wonderful.

Not your mother’s hair remover

While your mom may have shown you how to use it, Nair has been perfecting hair removal for over 80 years and has evolved to meet today’s needs, improving care for your skin.

In addition to fabulous new scents, today’s products are free of dyes, parabens, phthalates and sulfates — and they’re dermatologist-tested. You can choose from these products to help you achieve your flawless summer look:

• Oat Milk and Vanilla Body Cream: A mix of natural extracts combining notes of creamy coconut milk, vanilla bean and sweet almond, with hints of fresh strawberry and soft musk, to give Tara Davis-Woodhall’s favorite hair remover an irresistible scent.
• Sensitive Coconut Oil Shower Cream Hair Remover with Natural Coconut Oil and Vitamin E: If you have sensitive skin, you’ll appreciate having blade-free, hair-free, carefree skin that stays smooth and touchable days longer than by shaving. The new fragrance technology uses natural extracts to blend notes of creamy coconut, warm amber and clean musk for a soothing scent.
• Prep & Smooth Face with Hydrating Watermelon Extract & Hyaluronic Acid: This one-step formula helps you create the perfect canvas for your skincare and makeup application, thanks to its easy, touch-free, mess-free way to exfoliate skin and remove fuzz. Infused with skin-loving ingredients and featuring an ergonomic applicator, this revolutionary hydrating formula can transform your routine — and boasts a fresh watermelon scent.

Skincare advice from a skin champion

To address your concerns about hair removal, board-certified dermatologist and skin champion Dr. Tia Paul answers a few frequently asked questions and highlights the benefits of going bladeless.

Do you need to be careful trying new products?

“If it’s a product you haven’t used before, always do a ‘patch test,'” Paul said. “Everyone has different sensitivities to ingredients, so it’s best to try the product on a small patch of skin for 5 minutes or whatever the instructions tell you. Then, wait one week to 10 days to ensure you don’t have a reaction. If you don’t see or feel any irritation, redness, swelling or itchiness, you can go ahead and use the product.”

Should you ditch your razor?

“You bet. The smooth, hair-free skin achieved with Nair™ products lasts days longer than shaving, because Nair hair removal creams chemically remove hair below the skin’s surface,” explained Paul. “Shaving physically removes it just above the surface. For even longer-lasting results, try Nair waxes. The results can last up to 4 weeks. Think of what you can do with all the extra free time!”

How can hair removal products actually benefit your skin?

“In addition to ditching blades that may irritate your skin, Nair’s products are much gentler, and contain ingredients designed for each specific use (such as face, legs and the bikini area), including vitamin E, hyaluronic acid, Moroccan argan oil, cocoa butter, aloe and oat milk that can help exfoliate, hydrate and nourish your skin,” Paul said. “So, beyond hair removal, you’re getting extra benefits from each of these products that can improve and enhance how your skin looks and feels.”

Ready to ditch the blades and enjoy long-lasting, smooth and scent-sational skin? Visit NairCare.com or follow Nair on Instagram: @naircare to find your next favorite products to help champion your skin.