Category: Brandpoint Lifestyle

2024-03-21T15:19:00

(BPT) – Can you imagine living in a world on the brink of imminent catastrophe, caught between superpowers dueling over the very future of mankind?

While this sounds like the plot of a science fiction story, it was reality for millions of people throughout the five-decades-long geopolitical tension between the United States and the Soviet Union known as the Cold War.

The Cold War ended with the dissolution of the Soviet Union on Christmas Day in 1991 but it continues to influence cultural and political discourse in 2024.

The 2023 film “Oppenheimer,” which recently won seven Academy Awards, told the story of J. Robert Oppenheimer, one of the architects of the first atomic bomb — the precursor of the more advanced nuclear weapons that kept the world on edge during the Cold War.

Just this month, Netflix released a documentary entitled, “Turning Point: The Bomb and The Cold War,” which documents the development of nuclear weapons, the tensions between the United States and the Soviet Union, and asks viewers, considering the current war between Russia and Ukraine, to consider whether the Cold War ever really ended.

The Cold War’s lasting impact simply cannot be overstated, and understanding the conflict is essential to making sense of the world we live in today.

Congress recently designated the National Cold War Center (NCWC), which will be located on the site of the former Eaker Air Force base in Blytheville, Arkansas, as America’s official museum of the Cold War.

Set to open in the fall of 2027, the NCWC will be the best place in the world to learn about the profound history and global impact of the Cold War through immersive experiences and tours of original U.S. Air Force facilities that played a key role in America’s victory in the conflict.

Ahead of the center’s official opening, visitors can experience a taste of what is to come by visiting the Blytheville Air Force Base (BAFB) Exhibition, which tells the story of the Blytheville (later renamed Eaker) Air Force Base and the heroes who manned it during the Cold War. As a Strategic Air Command, the base housed B-52 bombers capable of launching with 15 minutes’ notice and armed with nuclear warheads three times more powerful than the bombs dropped on Nagasaki during World War II.

Christian Ostermann, an award-winning historian of the Cold War, is the founding director of the Wilson Center’s History and Public Policy Program and oversees the center’s Cold War International History Project. Ostermann also serves as co-chair of the NCWC’s National Advisory Board.

Ostermann has spent 25 years studying the Cold War, its historical significance, and how its legacy continues to shape our world today.

“The Cold War was an epic struggle between the United States and the Soviet Union over power, influence and resources. It was also a struggle of ideas and ideologies, of how best to organize a modern society — our way of life,” said Ostermann.

While the Cold War was primarily a high-stakes duel between the United States and the Soviet Union, the imminent threat of nuclear war and its unimaginable consequences impacted every corner of the globe, he said.

“In Blytheville, we have this authentic site that can bring that history to life — what it felt like to fight, and survive, the Cold War,” said Ostermann.

For more information on the National Cold War Center, America’s official museum of the Cold War, visit nationalcoldwarcenter.com.

2024-03-21T07:01:00

(BPT) – GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro are getting major press for their ability to help people slim down. But that’s just the half of it. These groundbreaking drugs, which mimic a hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, can improve multiple aspects of your overall health.

Maria Ikram can speak to the benefits from firsthand experience. Her lifelong battle with weight will be familiar to many people: Her closet is filled with clothes ranging from a size 4 to 18 — the result of years of yo-yo dieting. But before using prescription GLP-1 medication, nothing — not even bariatric surgery — gave her lasting results. Maria reached the breaking point when she and her family went to a theme park and she couldn’t go on one of the rides because of her size.

She resolved to shed the extra weight. This time, though, she wanted to slim down more gradually and develop habits that could help her keep the pounds off. She looked for a program led by board-certified medical professionals, who could guide her and help her stay on track. She wanted a program based on proven science — not a quick fix or fad. Maria found the LifeMD Weight Management Program, which combined access to prescription GLP-1 medication with expert guidance and more. It checked all of the boxes for her, and she figured it was worth a try.

Maria didn’t know it then, but the decision might have saved her life.

As part of the program, Maria was sent to a nearby lab for metabolic testing. When the results came back, she learned she had Type 2 diabetes, the condition her father had before he died. She met online with her selected healthcare provider, who outlined a plan that included GLP-1 medication. Slowly but surely, Maria began losing weight. After several months, she tested negative for Type 2 diabetes.

“Many people don’t realize there are other proven health benefits beyond weight loss of using GLP-1 medications,” says Dr. Anthony Puopolo, Chief Medical Officer for LifeMD. “By working closely with her LifeMD care team, Maria has seen tremendous improvements in her overall health.”

Here are five proven health benefits of using prescription GLP-1 medications.

1. Supports weight loss

GLP-1 medication sends signals to the brain that improve digestion and reduce hunger. As a result, individuals who take GLP-1 medication often feel fuller faster, which helps prevent overeating and excessive snacking. By supporting healthy eating habits and reducing calorie intake, these drugs may contribute to weight loss.

2. Helps treat diabetes

People with diabetes often struggle with insufficient insulin production. This can lead to elevated blood sugar levels that can be dangerous and potentially life-threatening. GLP-1s help the body produce more insulin. This helps regulate blood sugar levels, preventing them from spiking too high. As a result, patients can better manage diabetes and minimize the risk of related health issues.

3. Lowers cholesterol levels

While cholesterol is essential for building healthy cells, elevated levels of cholesterol pose a significant risk factor for heart disease. Clinical studies have shown patients using GLP-1 medications experience notable reductions in their cholesterol levels. By lowering cholesterol, GLP-1s help improve cardiovascular health and reduce the likelihood of developing heart-related conditions.

4. Lowers blood pressure

Research has shown that GLP-1 medications can have a positive impact on blood pressure, particularly in patients with Type 2 diabetes. By effectively managing blood pressure levels, GLP-1s help mitigate the risks associated with hypertension and its negative effects on the cardiovascular system.

5. Decreases the risk of heart disease

A compelling study, reported by the National Institutes of Health, revealed that GLP-1 drugs can significantly reduce the risk of stroke, heart attack, or cardiovascular-related fatalities. The study showcased a remarkable 12% decrease in the risk of these adverse events and an equally significant 12% reduction in overall mortality rates.

The benefits of Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro and other GLP-1 medications extend far beyond their ability to help patients slim down. By supporting weight loss, treating diabetes, lowering cholesterol, reducing blood pressure, and decreasing the risk of heart disease, GLP-1s can help patients live longer, healthier lives.

LifeMD’s Weight Management Program helps eligible patients achieve their weight loss goals. LifeMD pairs access to groundbreaking GLP-1 medications with clinical oversight, metabolic testing, and ongoing support from licensed healthcare providers to help people lose weight and feel healthier overall. Want to get started on your wellness journey? Visit LifeMD to learn more.

2024-03-21T10:01:00

(BPT) – With the biggest college basketball tournament of the year officially here, it’s time to put your bracket to the test and lock in your watch party plans. To take the tournament to the next level, Gallo has curated a list of approachable, award-winning wines. So, grab a bottle of your choosing, match it with a game-winning bite and get ready to cheer on your favorite team.

Black Box Cabernet Sauvignon: A Win-Win Choice

If you’re still unsure about which team you took to the championship, take a page out of Black Box’s playbook. With 100 gold medals — and counting — the brand lives by the motto that “the decisions you make define you.” So, grab a bottle, head out to your watch party and stand behind your choice — no matter if you settled on the 1 or 16 seed. Plus, with the aromas of blackberry and notes of toasted oak, the Black Box Cabernet Sauvignon is a win-win that’ll match well with the flavors of a burger or that last-minute, game-winning sip at the buzzer. Black Box is available at retailers nationwide or on blackboxwines.com in various sizes, 3L (SRP: $22.99) and 500mL (SRP: $5.99).

Dark Horse Sauvignon Blanc: Unleash the Unexpected

By definition a dark horse is a little-known competitor who emerges to distinction. That’s this wine. People have mistaken it for a $20 bottle even though it costs less than half of that price. So, If you’re rooting for the Cinderella team during this year’s tournament, Dark Horse’s Sauvignon Blanc is the perfect addition to your watch party — especially if you’re serving up a charcuterie board or game day classics like chips and guac. With hints of grapefruit and key lime, finishing with accents of passionfruit and even a pop of spice, each sip is the perfect complement. Dark Horse is available at retailers nationwide and in various size formats, 750mL (SRP: $9.99) and 375mL can (SRP: $5.49). Visit https://www.darkhorsewine.com/FindNearMe to locate Dark Horse at a store near you.

Lolli Sweet Twist: A Sweet Celebration

Filling a much-needed void in the wine category, Lolli breaks category norms and throws out the playbook — just like the underdog team that wasn’t expected to make the tournament this year. Created by women, Lolli has remixed the fine wine experience into a new vision of sweet and bold flavors fit for any glass, over ice, and topped with a garnish. Just like that disruptive team, Lolli is versatile and will flip tradition, revitalize the outdated, and blend the unconventional to forge something that’s truly original. So if you’ve always had a sweeter taste and are rooting against the favorite, Lolli’s Sweet Twist brings an effervescence of ripe fruit and a little heat that will take any cake pop or freshly baked brownie to the next level. Lolli is now available nationwide. Visit https://www.lollisweetdrinks.com/wheretobuy.html to locate Lolli at a store near you, Sweet twist 750ml & Sweet Spiked 750ml (SRP: $14.99) or Sweet Red 750ml (SRP: $11.99).

ViBE Blue Raspberry Lemonade: Vibe While On the Go

ViBE packs fun, fruity and unique nostalgic flavors into a convenient Tetra Pak that’s perfect for vibing in the back yard or out at a watch party. So if you’re bouncing around, trying to catch every game you can, grab a pack of the Blue Raspberry Lemonade and bring it on the go. The perfect match for the seeker of fun, sweet and flavorful vibes, this fruity wine will cool down even the most hot and spicy wings. ViBE by Vendange is available at retailers nationwide and is available in a 500mL size (SRP: $4.00). Visit https://www.vibebyvendange.com/wheretobuy to locate ViBE at a store near you.

As you stay tuned for the biggest tournament in college basketball, don’t forget to grab these standout selections from Gallo for your watch party! From the bold flavors of Black Box and the unexpected delights of Dark Horse to the sweet celebration with Lolli and the portability of ViBE, there’s something for every palate and every party. So gather your friends, create a game-winning food lineup and get ready to watch each team battle it out all the way to the finals.

Ages 21+. Learn more at Responsibility.org.

2024-03-21T07:01:00

(BPT) – Sponsored by Sanofi

Grace Cochran — who is a registered nurse (RN) in an Intensive Care Unit — and Raquel Baron — who is the CEO of a company that provides resources for children living with type 1 diabetes and their parents — both have type 1 diabetes and were diagnosed at young ages. Cochran and Baron are also passionate about education around the disease. “Having knowledge early might help both patients and doctors catch type 1 diabetes before symptoms appear and even before life-threatening complications occur. Awareness from trustworthy resources is vitally important and ultimately can give those with type 1 diabetes more time to prepare,” Cochran said.

Below, hear Cochran and Baron talk about the importance of early autoantibody screening for type 1 diabetes, as well as resources they rely on and suggest to others. To check out screening options yourself, visit The1Pledge.com and talk to your doctor.

Who should screen for type 1 diabetes?

While both Baron and Cochran were diagnosed at young ages, adults can also develop the condition. This underscores the importance of early screening for individuals in any age group. As Baron noted, “As we continue to see more diagnoses across age groups, it’s becoming clear why anyone and everyone should get screened.”

You also don’t need to be experiencing symptoms to be at risk — or to already be in the early stages of type 1 diabetes. Although type 1 diabetes is often diagnosed suddenly, typically when symptoms occur, its development in the body can happen over the course of many months or years before symptoms present in a noticeable way. This means you may already have type 1 diabetes, even if you aren’t outwardly showing signs of the disease, which may include but are not limited to extreme thirst, fatigue, frequent urination, and unexplained weight loss.

What does screening do?

Individuals with type 1 diabetes will eventually require life-long insulin therapy. A blood test can detect type 1 diabetes-related autoantibodies early, before the need for insulin. If the screening finds two or more autoantibodies, this is a sign that an early stage of type 1 diabetes may have already begun. Screening that can detect these autoantibodies is readily available today, and there are many options for where you can get screened that your doctor can share with you.

“An autoantibody blood test may offer you the opportunity to prepare for the future, before clinical onset of type 1 diabetes, when symptoms are noticeable, and insulin is needed. Regardless of your known risk factors, getting screened can help you make informed decisions with results and knowledge. I am passionate about sharing my perspective of the importance of screening as a nurse and a person living with type 1 diabetes. I love being able to provide the extra support of relatability and firsthand understanding of the value of screening to my patients,” Cochran shared.

Why is early screening important?

Currently, there is no cure for type 1 diabetes — but screening for type 1 diabetes may detect it early, allowing you more time to better understand your options and find the right care team to support you. As Cochran noted, “Having insights into your health is so important, and early screening may help people potentially reduce the risk of serious health complications and time in the hospital due to type 1 diabetes.”

As Baron points out, “Community and support are also really important to me, especially as I have gotten older. I have a lot of friends from the type 1 diabetes online community, and we just understand each other. It’s a tight-knit group of supportive people, unlike any other community I have seen online.”

Organizations and initiatives, such as JDRF, Beyond Type 1, Taking Control of Your Diabetes and the American Diabetes Association, provide valuable resources and information regarding type 1 diabetes, including risk factors, symptoms, how to get screened for diabetes-related autoantibodies and what to do before, during and after screening, as does The 1 Pledge movement, which includes a doctor discussion guide, so you know what to ask when discussing screening with your healthcare provider.

Don’t wait. The more you know, the more you can do to prepare for your and your family’s future. The only question that remains is: When will you get screened?

Sanofi does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment — information is provided for educational purposes only. Your doctor is the best source of health information. Talk to your doctor if you have any questions about your health or treatment. By clicking on the third-party links above, you will be going to an independent website not controlled or endorsed by Sanofi. Sanofi takes no responsibility for the information on these websites.

Raquel Baron and Grace Cochran are paid spokespeople for Sanofi.

2024-03-20T09:01:00

(BPT) – Sponsored by Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma America, Inc. (MTPA)

Each year, an estimated 5,000-6,000 Americans are diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) — also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease — a neurodegenerative disease that leads to muscle weakness, eventual loss of function, and currently has no cure.^[1],[2] When a person is diagnosed with ALS, the individual, their caregivers and loved ones embark on a life-changing journey. The emotional, physical and social impacts can vary for each person. It is important to be aware of possible behavioral and mental health changes among people living with ALS (pALS) and caregivers of a person living with ALS (cALS). There are several resources and support systems provided by the ALS community.

Signs of Depression

Changes in a person’s health and well-being may contribute to a shift in their mental health, potentially resulting in depression.^[3] Routines and former abilities may change as pALS and cALS adjust to life with ALS, so recognizing mental health symptoms is important in ALS care.^[4]

Symptoms of depression may include:^[3]

• Persistent sad or “empty” mood
• Feeling hopeless or irritable
• Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities
• Decreased energy

Support for pALS and cALS

There are many coping strategies and support systems within the ALS community that aim to help those who are struggling.

Here are some tips for how to support yourself or a loved one:

• Implement healthy habits – Taking control of your daily habits may help manage stress. Healthy habits include self-care, daily exercise, getting enough sleep, maintaining a balanced diet and socialization.^[5],[6],[7]
• Know when to seek help – If you or a loved one are experiencing destressing symptoms, open communication with someone you trust and/or your doctor or counselor to help you get the care you need.^[8]
• Attend support groups – There are various types of support groups, in-person or virtual, ranging in age and disease area and can be specific for patients and/or caregivers. These groups can help you connect with others who are experiencing similar day-to-day challenges and provide the opportunity to speak with others about your own experiences.
• Stay connected – Remaining socially connected may improve well-being.^[7],[9] Reaching out to family and friends may provide emotional support and practical help.^[5]

Share Your Own Story and Hear from Others

As a person with ALS or a caregiver, sharing your story may help build a sense of community with others experiencing a similar journey as you. MTPA’s Share Your Story program allows pALS and cALS to share real-life experiences. Through video and written stories people impacted by ALS share their experiences, insights and messages of hope. To view these inspirational individuals, visit ShareYourALSStory.com/HearfromOthers.

This content is sponsored by Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma America, Inc. (MTPA) and is intended for U.S. audiences only.

The information provided here is general in nature and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. You are strongly encouraged to seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health care provider with any questions regarding a medical condition.

2024-03-19T08:39:00

(BPT) – You don’t have to look too far to see the proliferation of positivity campaigns in our society today. Diversity and inclusion, coupled with the message of “you’re perfect just as you are,” are being shouted loud and clear. Advertising is reflective of it, hiring is focusing on it, and brands are making it a priority. It’s empowering and valuable. No matter what we look like, who we love or what our pronouns are, we’re all being invited to the table by advertisers, business owners and, not incidentally, our neighbors. And it’s about time.

One group, however, is typically not included in these positivity-forward movements. One big bias lingers, unaddressed. Most people don’t even know they’re holding onto it. It’s age. There is still the perception in our society that aging is a negative. A diminishment. Something that makes a person “less than” in our youth-obsessed world.

This nation’s top politicians might have something to say about the zeitgeist of aging right now. But you don’t have to be a politician who is deemed too old to do his job to feel it. You just need to be someone over the age of 50 who gets laid off and has to face the prospect of getting back into the job market. Or, who watches television on any given night and never sees a character older than 40 (Tom Selleck notwithstanding) who is not stereotyped, joked about or featured in ads, unless they’re selling prescription drugs or AARP memberships.

But it’s more serious than just representation. We know age discrimination and bias create barriers to health care, workforce development and services. It also negatively impacts people’s perceptions about themselves, which can negatively affect their overall health and wellness and even contribute to shortened life spans.

It shouldn’t be that way, not if our country’s demographics are any indication. By 2034, there will be more people over the age of 65 than under 18 for the first time ever on our planet. And by 2060, Americans 65 and older will comprise 23% of the U.S. population (95 million people), compared to just 17% (56 million people) in 2020, according to census projections. That’s a lot of consumers who aren’t being invited to the table. We can’t afford to discount our collective future by not valuing all the positives that come along with aging.

Where are all of the advertisements for age positivity? Where’s the Gray Pride parade?

At Next50, we’re committed to creating a future where aging is valued. We can see it on the horizon and hope you can, too. Here’s what it would look like, and how you can help ageism disappear.

Age-inclusive hiring practices. Hiring today is focused on skills and experience, with careful attention to diversity and inclusion. That’s great, but age needs to be part of it. The idea that job seekers in their fifties are not as bankable as those in their twenties is completely outdated. Why? It came into fashion decades ago, when people tended to stay in one place for their entire career. Back then, if you hired someone just out of school, they’d likely stay with you until retirement. Today, younger generations tend to job-hop their way up the ladder. Hire a Boomer or Gen Xer? They’ll not only bring a trove of skills and experience with them, but they’ll stick around.

Multigenerational collaboration. When you hire those older workers, it creates an incredible opportunity for collaboration and mentorships across the generations. And not just older people mentoring younger ones. Mentorship goes both ways. That type of knowledge sharing can break down biases — yes, older people do like technology — strengthening intergenerational understanding and reinforcing the value of all ages.

Transforming the media portrayal of older adults. Dove put body positivity for women on the map, Subaru made us all want to get a dog and go hiking, Nike told us to just do it, and we did. That’s the power of advertising. A similar campaign for age positivity can invite older consumers (with deep pockets) to the table, and help shatter stereotypes, too.

Changing the narrative. Negative assumptions like physical decline, decreased mental ability, and being out of touch with the times need to be replaced with more positive aspects of aging. The beauty of a love story that has lasted 40 years and is still going strong. The freedom of following your bliss during retirement. The facts about how we’re aging better than our parents did, and what that might mean to society.

It’s time to flip the switch on ageism. At Next50, we’re working toward a society that values aging and makes growing older an empowering, fulfilling experience. We invest in innovative ideas that will help us get there. Contact us today, or visit us on Facebook or LinkedIn to find out more.

2024-03-19T08:01:00

(BPT) – Nine out of ten participants say they would recommend a senior nutrition program to a friend.

2024-03-18T14:01:00

(BPT) – To find a smoke-free setting among this year’s Oscar Best Picture nominees, you’d have to go to Barbie Land. Of the 10 films nominated for the Oscars top prize — including winner “Oppenheimer” — all except “Barbie” feature smoking, according to Truth Initiative’s sixth annual analysis of tobacco imagery in top entertainment, which finds an increase in on-screen tobacco use across the most popular streaming shows among 15- to 24-year-olds, music videos, as well as youth-rated and Oscar-nominated movies.

On-screen smoking, which is often glamorized and portrayed as edgy and cool, is rising despite well-established research that it influences young people to start using tobacco products — a conclusion reached more than a decade ago in a 2012 Surgeon General report. In addition, research from Truth Initiative has also found that exposure to smoking imagery in streaming shows can triple a young person’s odds of starting to use e-cigarettes — today’s top tobacco product among young people.

This year’s nine Oscar-nominated Best Picture films featuring smoking, which marks an increase from last year’s seven out of 10, include winner “Oppenheimer,” and nominees “Maestro,” “The Holdovers,” “American Fiction,” “Killers of the Flower Moon,” “Poor Things,” “Anatomy of a Fall,” “The Zone of Interest,” and “Past Lives.” Moreover, 23 out of 24 of this year’s Oscars awards were awarded to movies that contained smoking. The only winner not including smoking was Barbie’s “What Was I Made For?” by Billie Eilish in the Best Song category. Tobacco continues to be center stage at awards like the Oscars, Golden Globes, and Emmys year after year, garnering prestige and media attention, increasing viewership for films and TV shows, and amplifying the negative impact of on-screen tobacco use on young viewers.

A problem across top entertainment

In addition to films, this year’s report, “Lights, Camera, Tobacco?,” found troubling trends across entertainment media including movies, streaming content, social media and music videos. The number of tobacco depictions in top shows among 15- to 24-year-olds increased by 110% between 2021 and 2022, exposing an estimated 25 million young people to tobacco imagery. The report also found that tobacco imagery in top binge-watched shows nearly quadrupled, and twice as many music videos for the most popular songs contained images of tobacco. This puts tobacco imagery on repeat for many young people, ultimately increasing exposure and risk. As young people increasingly consume video content via social platforms (nine in 10 U.S. teens say they use YouTube, the top social media platform) a Truth Initiative study currently underway also finds that more than a third of 15- to 24-year-olds surveyed who used YouTube, TikTok and Twitch reported exposure to tobacco imagery.

Tobacco product use among young people remains a serious public health concern, with more than 2 million middle and high school students using e-cigarettes in 2023, according to the National Youth Tobacco Survey. Nicotine harms developing adolescent brains and may make young people more susceptible to addiction later in life, and nicotine addiction can also increase stress and intensify feelings of depression and anxiety, a growing concern given the Surgeon General’s report about the worsening national youth mental health crisis. And among young adults, there is high prevalence of dual use of e-cigarettes and cigarettes.

More than half of the streaming shows most popular among young people featured tobacco imagery

The latest data on tobacco imagery in streaming shows in 2022 are alarming: More than half (8 out of 15) of the streaming shows most popular with 15- to 24-year-olds contained tobacco imagery. Even more troubling, the number of tobacco depictions among these shows more than doubled between 2021 and 2022. Half of the shows were rated TV-14, appropriate for youth, and two featured tobacco use by minors.

The increase in smoking among the top 15 shows was driven largely by Netflix’s Golden Globe-winner “Dahmer – Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story” which contained a third of all tobacco depictions. Other shows popular among youth featuring tobacco imagery included “Euphoria” (HBO), “The Simpsons” (Fox), “Stranger Things” (Netflix), “The Walking Dead” (AMC), “Family Guy” (Fox), “Bob’s Burgers” (Fox) and “Law & Order” (NBC). Two of these also featured tobacco use by minors.

Six out of seven networks (Netflix, FOX, HBO, AMC, CW and FX) all increased tobacco imagery in 2022. BBC One joined the list as top offender due to hit show “Peaky Blinders,” and Netflix, a reoccurring top offender, followed closely in second. Netflix more than doubled tobacco imagery in 2022 compared to the previous year, as did Fox, which rounded out the top three. Despite a 2019 pledge to eliminate tobacco in original, youth-rated shows and movies that are not historical, Netflix continues to include depictions in shows popular with young people, such as “Cobra Kai,” which is rated TV-14. Subscription services like Amazon Prime video, Hulu, Apple TV and even Disney+ are also amplifying reach.

More must be done to protect young people from on-screen tobacco imagery

Tobacco imagery has been stubbornly present in media most popular with youth, despite years of research tying on-screen tobacco depictions with youth tobacco use. While some studios and networks have worked to reduce tobacco imagery in their programming, the continued inclusion of tobacco in PG-rated films and skyrocketing tobacco use in streaming shows, music videos, and on social media platforms continues to expose too many young people to tobacco, putting them at risk of nicotine addiction.

The entertainment industry must recognize its power as well as its responsibility to change the picture, and not be unwitting spokespeople for the tobacco industry. More needs to be done to urge decision makers at all levels, including entertainment executives, leaders of streaming platforms and broadcast networks, showrunners, directors, writers, actors and music artists, to denormalize tobacco use and eliminate it on screens most popular with young people, including:

• Expanding education and outreach to ensure stakeholders including directors, writers and producers understand the importance of keeping tobacco out of shows;
• Informing actors of the power they wield when they use tobacco on screen, as actors rejecting smoking and vaping on screens would send a powerful statement;
• Continuing the use of anti-tobacco and anti-vaping messaging before and after shows featuring tobacco imagery and featuring specific messages demonstrating the harmful effects of increasingly popular e-cigarette products;
• Implementing a robust ratings system that ensures that titles with smoking are listed as TV-MA or R, which has the potential to reduce young people’s exposure to tobacco.

To read the full report and learn more, visit truthinitiative.org.

2024-03-18T06:01:00

(BPT) – Summer is just around the corner! With the kids out of school, it’s the perfect time to plan a trip or two and spend quality time together as a family. However, family vacations can get pretty pricey. With booking hotel rooms, flights and more, a summer trip can put a strain on your wallet.

This summer, you can make the most of the sunny season while sticking to your budget using these five tips.

1. Book early

Don’t wait! One of the best ways to make the most of your summer and save is to plan ahead and book early. This is especially true when planning air travel.

According to the CheapAir.com Annual Airfare Study, a fare will change 49 times on average from the day the trip first goes on sale. If you want affordable, flexible flights, aim to book your trip 2.5 to 7.5 months in advance.

In addition to flights, accommodations, concerts and activities like summer camp can sell out months in advance. To make sure your family doesn’t miss out on the fun, book ahead. Booking early not only secures your spot, but you can also get some discounts.

2. Look for deals

Watch for promotions and special offers on activities, attractions and events. Check an organization or company’s websites and social media accounts to make your summer outings more budget-friendly.

Another way to save is to see if any of your existing accounts or services have member perks. For example, T-Mobile customers on qualifying plans now have Magenta Status, which unlocks VIP treatment with premium one-of-a-kind deals and experiences across nationally loved brands. One amazing perk of Magenta Status is getting a special rate at Hilton’s 22 leading hotel brands worldwide and automatic upgrade to Hilton Honors Silver status when you sign up for a Hilton Honors membership. Silver benefits include free Wi-Fi, a fifth night free on rewards stays, an all-inclusive spa discount and more. To learn more, visit T-Mobile.com/Status.

3. Explore the great outdoors

Nature offers endless entertainment for free or on the cheap. It’s no wonder that 26% of Americans plan to take an outdoor trip this year, according to Forbes.

For day trips, head to a nearby regional or state park for a hike and picnic or catch some waves at the beach. If you’re seeking longer excursions, plan a family camping trip. If you don’t have the right gear, don’t feel pressured to spend a ton of money. Ask family and friends to borrow tents, sleeping bags, coolers, lanterns and camp cookware.

As long as you pack your snacks, sunscreen and sense of adventure, you can make lasting memories in nature without draining your bank account.

4. Hit the road

Pack the car and get ready for a good old-fashioned road trip! A family road trip can be an exciting and budget-friendly vacation where the journey there can be just as fun as the destination.

Plan a weeklong trip to a historic site, a natural wonder or a city you’ve never visited. No matter where you choose to go, preparation is key. Load up the car with snacks, games, movies and all your device charging cords. Don’t forget to stop along the way. You may be surprised at the hidden gems you discover on the way to your destination.

If you’d like to keep the miles off your car, don’t stress! Renting a car with extra amenities is an affordable way to make a road trip comfortable and convenient. If you’re a T-Mobile customer, renting a gas or electric vehicle is a breeze. Best of all, you won’t have to worry about filling up the gas tank at Dollar or recharging your electric vehicle (EV) at Hertz before returning it.

5. Plan a staycation

Sometimes, the best summer memories are made right at home. Staycations surged in popularity during the pandemic, and an international study found that the travel trend is unlikely to flag anytime soon. A trip where you stick close to home with loved ones can’t be beat for affordability and convenience.

Need some staycation ideas? Turn your living room into a day spa, host a game night, camp in your backyard or plan a scavenger hunt. The only limit is your imagination. If you want to look a little farther afield, use your staycation to explore your town! During the summer, your town or city may host celebrations and festivals your family can enjoy. Find out if local museums, theme parks and community centers offer discounts to children, students and families.

Make a list of upcoming summer blockbusters and hit the theaters. If you have T-Mobile Magenta Status, you can get a $5 movie ticket to a new major motion picture every single month, guaranteed.

With a little creativity, planning and a willingness to think outside the box, you can make the most of summer without putting a strain on your finances.

2024-03-14T16:23:00

(BPT) – As fans gear up for the biggest tournament in college basketball, Dean’s Dip, the trusted dairy dip brand best known for its original and irresistible French Onion Dip, is the MVP of the snacks table. While it’s most often enjoyed right out of the tub with a bag of crunchy potato chips, the brand has drawn up some tasty and creative recipe hacks to dress up its fan-favorite OG dip and give party goers and entertainers new, innovative ways to enjoy it at upcoming viewing parties.

“Loyal fans love Dean’s any way you serve it, but we also recognize people like to jazz up the food table to help cheer on their hometown team or alma mater,” says Kelly Hansen, vice president of marketing for West Madison Foods, which purchased Dean’s Dip, among other brands, last year. “We’re here to help our fans put an exciting spin on our tasty dip and help win over new ones while their favorite teams go head to head.”

Here are five crowd-pleasing hacks from Dean’s to kick off menu planning and help you score big on game day:

• Achieve twice-baked potato perfection with Loaded Baked Potato Bites. Just bake Russet potatoes, scoop out the insides and mash together with Dean’s French Onion Dip, cheddar cheese and green onions. Refill the skins and top with more cheese and bacon, then broil. The party is ON!
• Level up your nachos with these Air Fried Pizza Ravioli Nachos, bringing brand new flavors to a game day staple. Dollop Dean’s French Onion Dip on every bite for a flavor-packed appetizer.
• These easy French Onion Chicken Roll Ups use refrigerated crescent rolls, Dean’s French Onion Dip and cheese as a base. Roll it all up and cover with a mixture of cream of chicken soup and milk. Next, sprinkle with more cheese and fried onions, and bake for a quick and savory meal.
• Elevate your Game-Day 7-Layer Dip! Simply sub in Dean’s French Onion Dip for sour cream and you’ll get an insanely delicious and easy dish your guests are sure to love!

• Finally, flip any conventional cake stand for an Impromptu Chip & Dip Tray and your guests will name you “hostess with the most-est”!

Made with wholesome skim milk, savory onions and parsley, this creamy French Onion Dip features a classic taste no dipper can resist. So as party crews fill out their basketball brackets, Dean’s French Onion Dip will be there every snack of the way.

Dean’s Dip is available in several tasty varieties including French Onion, Ranch, French Onion with Bacon, Bacon Ranch, Cheddar Bacon, Veggie and Guacamole dips, and can be found in the dairy aisle at major national retailers throughout the U.S., including Safeway/Albertson’s, Kroger, Target and Walmart.

For more information about Dean’s products, visit Deansdip.com or follow along on Instagram, TikTok and Facebook.