Category: Brandpoint Lifestyle

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.

2024-08-14T07:01:00

(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.

2024-08-08T11:05:00

(BPT) – As kids retreat back indoors after a long summer outside, back-to-school season provides a good opportunity for parents to revisit how their children are using social media to stay connected with their friends.

If heading back-to-school wasn’t already an emotional experience for kids, a new global survey commissioned by LG Electronics found social media can be a source of anxiety for young people. Almost half of the respondents (45%) reported their social media feeds consist of an equal or greater amount of negative rather than positive content. In fact, more than 1 in 4 (28%) claimed negative content on social media feeds has increased their anxiety, and 1 in 5 (20%) said it has made them unhappy.

While it can be normal to worry how social media impacts your child’s mental health — especially if you struggle to limit their time spent on social media — there are simple ways your child can adjust their feeds to provide more positive scrolling experiences.

Social media expert and information science professor Casey Fiesler, Ph.D., explains how algorithms affect the content everyone sees.

“Algorithms determine what users see on social media by predicting content they’re likely to engage with based on past engagement,” said Fiesler. “These algorithms can send anyone down specific niches — for good and bad. Research shows that it’s possible to quickly go down negative rabbit holes and encounter harmful content.”

How can you help your kids enjoy the positive benefits of social media — like connecting with friends and family, being entertained and sharing happy moments — without experiencing potential harm?

Here are concrete actions that can help your kids enjoy what’s good about social media.

Model good behavior

It’s often said kids pay more attention to what you do than what you say. With that in mind, consider how you use social media. Are you glued to your feed for hours? Do you vocalize negative content you’re seeing?

Notice how much you’re scrolling, and what you say about it. Can you share positive, upbeat content with your kids instead of the negative? If you do see something negative, consider how you communicate the feelings it brought up for you and why you chose not to interact with it.

Open the conversation

By talking about what you see on social media and how it makes you feel, you’re opening a conversation with your kids — and letting them know you’re there to listen when they have feelings about what they see.

Ask them what they enjoy about social media and what they don’t. What do they do when they encounter something that makes them uncomfortable or sad? Listening is crucial to keep communication channels open.

Find workable limits

While it may be impossible to completely prevent your kid from using social media, you can impose limits. Your home’s Wi-Fi router likely has features allowing you to control when your kids have access to the internet and the ability to ban sites. You may want to ensure they’re interacting with social media in common areas rather than spending too much time alone with internet access.

It’s also recommended to keep phones and other devices out of bedrooms, to limit social media exposure as well as promoting a good night’s sleep. Need kids to wake up early? Use an old-fashioned alarm clock.

How much control you impose will be based on your child’s age and other considerations unique to your family. Again, talking with your kids is the best way to ensure they know the pitfalls and red flags they should be aware of online.

Improve their feeds

LG is tackling negative content on social media by helping more people discover upbeat, positive and optimistic content through its new “Optimism Your Feed” playlist. This is a simple way to help reset your kids’ and your own social feeds, inviting more uplifting content you can feel good about.

“This is one way you can exert some control over what your social media algorithm serves you,” explained Fiesler. “When you engage with optimistic content, it’s kind of like telling the algorithm, ‘I want more of this,’ and as a result you might see more positive content the next time you start scrolling.”

The “Optimism Your Feed” playlist includes original content from global influencers and content creators known for their positive content like Victoria Browne, Tina Choi and Josh Harmon. Featuring 20 short-form videos, when interacted with, the playlist is designed to help pull more positive content into your feed. This is part of the Life’s Good campaign that LG introduced last year to inspire and encourage people to approach life with an optimistic attitude.

As social media continues to be an integral part of everyone’s lives, by being more conscious about what you and your kids interact with, you’ll be choosing to bring stronger optimism, balance and happiness to your lives this school year.

Explore the “Optimism Your Feed” playlist on LG’s global TikTok channel @lge_lifesgood and YouTube channel @LGGlobal.

2024-08-08T02:01:00

(BPT) – Cybercriminals are increasingly attacking rural hospitals across America, posing a direct threat to patients. For many Americans living in rural areas, the nearest emergency room may be miles and miles away – and in an emergency, every second counts. Cyberattacks can disrupt the essential operations of hospitals, leaving people at risk.

These attacks are increasing in number: In 2023, the healthcare sector reported more ransomware attacks than any other critical infrastructure sector, and attacks involving ransomware against the healthcare sector were up nearly 130%.

Cybercriminals are also increasingly targeting rural communities, where digital defenses may not be as robust due to resource constraints. These attacks can be devastating, particularly to smaller, independent hospitals with limited means of protecting themselves.

When a rural hospital falls victim to a cyberattack, it’s not just the institution that suffers; the entire community feels the ripple effect. Just last year, an Illinois hospital permanently shut its doors partly due to a devastating ransomware attack. NBC News reported that because of the hospital closure, some residents are now more than thirty minutes away from emergency services.

Here are three ways people in rural communities can help:

1. Strengthen rural hospital cybersecurity

Hospitals need tools to protect themselves. That’s why the White House along with cybersecurity experts like Microsoft, are providing free and low-cost resources available to every rural hospital across the nation. This includes advanced security products along with free cybersecurity assessments and free training for frontline and IT staff. Rural hospitals can sign up for the program or learn more at nonprofits.TSI.microsoft.com/security-program-for-rural-hospitals.

2. Explore a cybersecurity career

America is facing a cybersecurity skills crisis. There simply aren’t enough people with the skills to defend against cybersecurity attacks: There are nearly half a million job openings requesting cybersecurity skills, but there are only 85 cybersecurity workers available for every 100 cybersecurity jobs demanded by employers, according to Cyberseek.

Anyone, anywhere can take advantage of the opportunity and start a career in cybersecurity. Building the skills necessary is easier than ever, especially given the free classes and tools available. For example, the Career Essentials in Cybersecurity learning path from LinkedIn and Microsoft allows you to earn professional certification in the field.

3. Protect yourself

Rural communities can protect themselves by strengthening vital infrastructure and hiring cybersecurity professionals, but the most important step is personal. Whether you work in a hospital or elsewhere, it’s critical to understand cybersecurity threats and prepare yourself.

Cyberscams are a pervasive threat in our increasingly connected world, and no one is immune to their risk. These scams, often disguised as tech support, prey on the unsuspecting, exploiting trust and causing harm. It’s essential to be vigilant and informed to protect yourself and your loved ones on how you can identify these online con artists. By staying aware and cautious, you can defend against the tactics of cybercriminals and keep your digital life secure.

Learn more about the threats to rural hospitals at nonprofits.TSI.microsoft.com/security-program-for-rural-hospitals.

2024-08-07T05:01:00

(BPT) – Spend a few days in a waterfront town, vacation destination or golf community, and you’ll likely see a surge of local electric vehicles on neighborhood streets. The street-legal, low-speed vehicle category extends the fun, yet practical vehicles to suburbia and urban downtowns as the market for sustainable transportation grows. Low-speed vehicles (LSVs) offer a safe, more efficient and more enjoyable drive– especially when highway speeds and 300 miles of range aren’t required for daily drives.

Here’s what you need to know about low-speed EVs and why you should buy one.

What is an LSV?

LSVs are a specific, federally designated class of motor vehicles, not to be confused with golf carts. These elevated EVs have significant safety upgrades and they are generally street-legal across the country on roads with a posted speed limit of 35 mph or less. Perfect for everyday errands.

What sets these EVs apart?

These head-turning EVs are stylish and fun to drive. Flexible charging can plug into any standard 110V outlet with fast-charging options available when needed. And with battery packs providing upwards of 100 miles, LSVs have more than enough range for multiple trips in a day. GEM LSVs even offer an optional rooftop solar panel that further increases range and reduces reliance on the grid.

Unlike a golf cart, LSVs are legal after dusk, just like a full-size EV, but at a much lower purchase price. A fully enclosed cab with hard doors and automotive-grade windows provides comfort and peace of mind from weather while containing kids, gear and groceries. Or remove the doors for a breezy, open-air ride. They are also incredibly durable and easy to clean, so don’t worry about dirty feet, sports bags or potted plants for the garden.

Where can LSVs go?

Business and residential areas in every U.S. state have speed limits between 25-35 mph, making LSVs an increasingly viable, safe and community-friendly option. Check out the GEM GO web-app for an easy-to-use map of posted speed limits legal for LSVs. And many cities are going even further and adopting Vision Zero’s 20 is Plenty policy in an effort to curb traffic deaths by posting 20 mph speed limits.

Additionally, in populated urban and community environments with congested roads, LSVs arrive at the same time as high-speed, full-size vehicles. While the compact footprint takes up less space on crowded roadways, with a variety of models and seating options, GEM electric LSVs come in two-, four- or six-seat models and provide an automotive-like driving experience for enhanced comfort.

Top reasons to buy an LSV

1. Eco-Friendly Transportation
2. Cost-Effective Operation
3. Ideal for Local Trips
4. Fun for the Whole Family
5. Ease of Parking
6. Safety Features
7. Promotes Community Interaction
8. Incentives and Benefits
9. Versatility and Customization

How much are LSVs?

Like any vehicle, there is a range. Starting MSRPs for GEM LSVs are e2: $15,240, e4: $17,490 and e6: $21,240. At a cost-per-mile of just $.03, they are as inexpensive as it comes, drawing less from the grid than full-size EVs and delivering a 30-50% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions over combustion vehicles.

Save your SUVs and full-speed sedans for the highway. The experience of cruising in an LSV offers a sense of calm, ease and fun that’s often missing from the fast-paced world of conventional driving — making it more than just a practical choice and providing an opportunity to Reimagine your Ride.