Category: Brandpoint Lifestyle

2024-05-31T16:05:00

(BPT) – The rising cost of goods and services across the U.S. has many Americans feeling financial stress. While you can’t directly influence the inflation rate, you can find ways to reduce your spending on things like insurance, groceries, your phone, gas and streaming services. Check out these five money-saving strategies that can help you beat inflation.

1. Shop around for the best insurance deals

When was the last time you shopped around for car, renters’ and home insurance? If it’s been a while, carve out time to search for a better deal. Most importantly, don’t settle for the first quote you receive. According to a ValuePenguin survey, nearly three-quarters of Americans have shopped around for insurance, and many have saved money as a result.

Also, many companies allow you to bundle car and home or renters’ insurance for a discount. In fact, you could save an average of 18% by bundling your home and auto policies.

2. Switch up your phone plan for savings

If you’ve been with the same phone plan for a while, it might be time to explore other options. Many phone plan providers offer competitive rates and deals to new customers who make the switch.

Keep in mind that you shouldn’t just switch to any plan. Pick a carrier that will help you save AND treat you well. For example, Metro by T-Mobile — the leader in prepaid — has debuted its Metro Flex plan. New customers can receive a free 5G phone when they join, and they’ll get the same great deals as new customers in as soon as 12 months when they trade in their phones.

Most phone providers only give you a free phone when you join. That’s what sets Metro Flex apart; they take care of existing customers. Additionally, Metro Flex customers can get benefits like Google One 100GB, free stuff and deals every week through T-Mobile Tuesdays, unlimited texts to 210+ countries and destinations and Amazon Prime included (a savings of $14.99/month) with the Metro Flex Plus plan.

Metro is the first and only prepaid wireless plan that gives new and existing customers the same fair treatment. To learn more, visit MetroByT-Mobile.com/MetroFlex.

3. Choose generic brands at the grocery store

If you want to cut your grocery bill, opt for generic brands instead of name brands. You’ll be surprised at how much you can save without sacrificing quality.

Consumer Reports found that 76% of generic food items tasted as good as their brand-name counterparts. How much can you save by switching to generic? The report found that depending on the food item, the generic brand cost as much as 72% less per serving than name brands.

4. Embrace alternative transportation methods

In April alone, gasoline increased by 2.8%. Fuel costs can add up quickly if you commute to work or school. However, you can save on fuel costs by using alternative forms of transportation. According to the American Public Transportation Association, riders can save more than $13,000 a year by using public transit.

Aside from public transit, you can also consider biking, walking or carpooling with friends or neighbors. You can even use a combination of these transportation methods to save and get to where you want to go.

5. Bundle up your subscriptions

How many streaming subscriptions do you pay for? According to Forbes, the average American spends $46 per month on streaming services. That may not seem like a high number, but it can quickly add up over time.

While you could cancel subscriptions, an easier and more convenient way to save while still enjoying entertainment is to look for bundles. Just like with car and home insurance, bundling streaming subscriptions can give you a discount.

You may even already have access to a subscription service and may be paying double. If you’re a Metro Flex Plus customer, you get access to Amazon Prime as part of your plan. That’s a savings of $14.99 per month!

Prime members enjoy exceptional value with access to Amazon’s fast and free delivery, enormous selection, exclusive deals and shopping events, savings across health care, prescriptions and groceries, as well as movies, books, games, photo storage and more.

Saving money doesn’t have to be difficult. Use these five tips and see how much you can save. Remember, every dollar counts!

2024-05-31T08:01:00

(BPT) – Small businesses have a significant impact on their customers and surrounding communities. In the U.S. alone, there are more than 33 million small businesses that employ almost half of America’s private sector workforce. These businesses play a vital role in local communities, driving economic activity and employment. When small businesses thrive, their communities thrive, too.

However, these businesses face many challenges. Small business owners do not have the resources to manage their networks or tackle technology issues. They need increasingly more sophisticated IT solutions but don’t have a dedicated IT staff to support them. Choosing the right broadband solutions to support their business is critical to success.

Increasingly, local broadband service providers (BSPs) with a vision to foster economic growth in their communities are bridging this gap by offering managed services tailored for small businesses – services that extend far beyond just fast Wi-Fi. For example, recent broadband innovation from Calix (a leading cloud technology company for the broadband industry) enables BSPs to serve more small businesses with a purpose-built broadband solution that meets their unique needs. These small business services include enhanced security measures and cybersecurity reporting across four dedicated networks – business, point-of-sale, staff and customer – to enable small business owners to safeguard their critical online activities.

SCTelcom in Kansas, RTC Networks in North Dakota, and DirectLink in Oregon are examples of BSPs delivering these services to support the success of local small businesses. SCTelcom is attracting more opportunity and generating economic vitality in south-central Kansas, while DirectLink and RTC Networks are reinforcing their positions as the preferred BSP for small businesses in their regions.

Small business owners rely on their BSPs to be dependable technology partners, helping them maintain the safety and security essential to their success. In honor of Small Business Month, Calix offers five ways BSPs can enable small businesses in their communities to thrive.

1. Robust network-level security

In the U.S., cyberattacks are on the rise and should be top of mind for companies of all sizes. According to 60% of small businesses, cybersecurity is a primary concern. Last year, more than 3,200 data breaches were reported. In addition, 51% of small businesses have no cybersecurity measures in place and 85% of ransomware attacks targeted small businesses in 2023. A report from IBM found that smaller organizations are increasingly impacted by data breaches, with the resulting financial burden increasing by 13% from 2022 to 2023. Research indicates that 95% of cybersecurity incidents can cost small businesses up to $653,587 due to downtime, lost business, emergency solutions, legal, and regulatory fines.

While these facts may be scary, small businesses can protect themselves with robust network-level security. BSPs offer comprehensive security measures to protect critical business systems and data, including integrated firewalls, isolated business, staff, guest, point-of-sale networks, intrusion alerts, content filtering and reporting of blocked threats.

2. Secure network access control

Network access controls are policies, procedures, protocols, tools and applications that define, regulate and restrict what an individual or entity can do on one’s network. To protect against internal and external threats, small businesses need segmented networks for employees, customers, and business systems. Each segmented network should have tailored authentication and security policies to ensure data protection and regulatory compliance.

3. Network resilience

Most people have experienced network problems at home. While those issues can be frustrating and inconvenient, they can cause severe problems when it comes to running a business. Network problems create downtime, which can be catastrophic for small businesses.

Local BSPs deliver uninterrupted connectivity and continuous operations to small businesses in their communities, minimizing potential losses during network disruptions.

4. Simplified staff network management

Regardless of the number of employees, small businesses need to manage network access for staff effectively. Seamless network onboarding and offboarding processes for employees and insights into employee productivity can enhance operational efficiency and improve network security, saving time, money, and headaches for small business owners.

5. Enhanced customer experiences

Providing guests with Wi-Fi connectivity is no longer a luxury; it’s a necessity for attracting and retaining customers. Small businesses can improve customer experience and satisfaction by offering secure Wi-Fi, driving loyalty and increasing spending.

Finding the right broadband service provider for small businesses

Depending on the BSP that services their community, small business owners will find different levels and implementations of cybersecurity, network safety and productivity tools.

Calix SmartBiz enables BPS to offer a variety of features that help small businesses improve productivity, secure important online activities, and delight their customers with safe, secure Wi-Fi that holds up to the most demanding streaming services. As a result, small business owners can focus on doing what they do best, not tackling complicated IT issues.

Small business owners should talk with their internet providers about deploying SmartBiz or contact SCTelcom, RTC Networks or DirectLink to learn how they’re supporting the success of small businesses in their communities.

2024-05-30T13:01:00

(BPT) – Spring is a great time to consider adding a furry friend to your household! Bringing a pet into your home is one of the best decisions you can make to enrich your life, with three quarters of pet parents reporting mental health improvements from pet ownership. With more than six million animals currently in rescue agencies or shelters in the U.S., adopting a pet will open your home to an animal in need and bring you untold amounts of joy and well-being. It’s easy to fall in love with an adorable dog or cat, especially if they have backstories that pull at your heart strings. But as tempting as it is to take home the first sweet face you see, it’s not a decision to make lightly.

According to a study by the National Institutes of Health, 40% of adopted pets are returned to shelters within the first year. That’s why some careful forethought can help your home be a permanent one for your new best friend. Here are six things to consider to help you find a companion that is the perfect match:

Compatibility with your Lifestyle: Before you choose a pet, think about your lifestyle and choose a pet with a temperament and personality that fits. Are you looking for a cuddle buddy for movie nights or a running partner? Do you work from home or are you in the office five days a week? Do you have young children or teenagers? A young, active husky might not be the best choice for someone who is away most of the day, while an older cat might enjoy quiet and solitude. A rambunctious dog might be too much for young kids, while teens might love to play with them in the backyard.

Preparing for Expenses: Budgeting for pet care is the best way to make sure you’re not surprised by the expenses necessary to keep your new family member healthy and happy. Think about vet visits, yearly vaccinations, food, day care, dental cleanings, grooming and more. There’s also a chance pet parents could face surprise costs like treatment for an injury or surgery. These costs can add up over time, Synchrony’s Pet Lifetime of Care Study shows it can be as much as $55,000 during a pet’s lifetime. But there are ways to be ready for these costs.

Many pet parents have a credit card specifically for pet expenses, such as Synchrony’s CareCredit. CareCredit is a health and wellness credit card that empowers families to pay over time for pet care with flexible, budget-friendly financing options. CareCredit can be for all types of veterinary and pet care from routine exams and vaccinations to illness and injuries, nutrition and prescriptions and even microchipping, boarding, training and other expenses. Having a solution to manage costs can give your financial peace of mind through every stage of your pet’s life.

Puppy or Kitten vs. Adult Pet: If you work outside of the home most of the time, a puppy or kitten can be challenging but not impossible. Young animals need a lot of supervision, training and attention as they discover the world — and get to know you and your household. It takes time and attention to help them grow into well-mannered adults. If you don’t have those, consider adopting an adult pet that’s already house trained, crate trained, leash ready or can manage being alone. Be sure to ask these types of questions when you are at your chosen place of adoption.

Allergies in Your Household: If someone in your home is allergic to dogs or cats, careful consideration should be made. The last thing you want is to fall in love with a furry friend only to discover you or a child is constantly sneezing. However, there are certain breeds that are hypoallergenic that might be the ideal fit.

Living Situation: Do you live in an apartment? What floor is it on? Is there easy access to outdoor spaces or a dog park? Does your home have a fenced-in yard to keep them safe? What are the rules for pets if you’re renting? It’s important to keep all of these things in consideration when adding a pet to your life and living space. It’s not always the size of the pet that matters most, it’s the size of your commitment to making to work for you and the animals.

Considering all the elements of pet ownership before you bring your furry friend home will help ensure it’s a perfect match from the start — and for a lifetime.

To learn more about how CareCredit can help you be financially prepared to care for your new family member, and to find a vet near you that accepts CareCredit, visit their website www.carecredit.com.

2024-05-30T11:01:00

(BPT) – Over the past five years, we have seen a 300% surge in nights booked by Gen Z guests globally, indicating a broadening of the travel market as more destinations, both traditional and new, attract young travelers¹.

As we head into Pride Month, new Airbnb data reveals a fresh wave of travelers are shaping the landscape of global Pride celebrations. From spectators to trailblazers, Gen Z travelers are exploring new spaces for the LGBTQ+ community to come together.

A generational comparison: the top booked Prides this summer

From the capital seat of Utah, to the scenic charms of Taipei, and the historical sites of Athens, Gen Z’s impact is global. Emerging hotspots like Cleveland and Charlotte, where Gen Z interest is notably strong, are becoming central locales in the Pride circuit, pointing toward a broader trend of inclusivity and new celebrations across different regions.

This year, the most popular Pride destinations among Gen Z travelers showcase their unique preferences and adventurous spirit. Below is a list of cities that have seen the highest percentage of nights booked by Gen Z and Millennials during Pride celebration weekends²:

Gen Z’s Top Booked International Pride Celebrations

• San Jose, Costa Rica
• Lima, Peru
• Prague, Czech Republic
• Bogota, Colombia
• Madrid, Spain
• London, United Kingdom
• Manchester, United Kingdom
• Cologne, Germany
• Berlin, Germany
• Thessaloniki, Greece

Millennials’ Top Booked International Pride Celebrations

• Taipei, Taiwan
• Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
• Bogota, Colombia
• Hong Kong
• Berlin, Germany
• Oslo, Norway
• Montreal, Canada
• Naples, Italy
• Athens, Greece
• Santiago, Chile

Millennials continue to lead bookings to traditional Pride celebration destinations, maintaining their strong presence and celebrating in familiar spaces, while Gen Z is exploring both the newer Pride celebrations and traditional ones.

Top-rated LGBTQ-friendly cities by guest reviews

Creating safe and welcoming spaces is not just a current trend, but a growing movement. Following the top booked destinations for Pride, we are shining a rainbow-colored spotlight on cities that are celebrated for their LGBTQ-friendly environments by the number of mentions in guest reviews³:

• Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
• Madrid, Spain
• New York City, NY
• Paris, France
• San Diego, CA
• Chicago, IL
• Wilton Manors, FL
• Toronto, Canada
• Seattle, WA
• London, United Kingdom

These cities are not only home to some of the most spectacular Pride events, but their hosts also foster environments where LGBTQ+ travelers can feel welcome year-round.

Hosts are embracing and celebrating the spirit of Pride Month

From vibrant, color-filled homes to unique, Pride-centric experiences, these listings encapsulate the spirit of Pride Month and provide a warm, inviting atmosphere for everyone. Below is a collection of homes showcasing their pride in some of the most colorful ways:

Inclusive language fosters acceptance

We want Airbnb to be a place where people of all identities, backgrounds and cultures feel welcome.

Last year we released new data which showed the number of Hosts around the world using LGBTQ+-inclusive language surged by nearly 90% since 2017, signifying a shift toward an even more welcoming and inclusive community on the platform. According to findings from Morning Consult Brand Intelligence, 41% of LGBTQ+ respondents who travel identify as Airbnb users – 8% higher compared to the overall percentage of U.S. leisure travelers.

Inclusive language helps foster a sense of belonging and safety, which is crucial for members of the Airbnb community, no matter how they identify.

1. Nights booked by Gen Z in Q1 2019 vs Q1 2024.
2. Cities with the highest percentages of nights booked by Gen Z and Millennial travelers over their respective Pride weekends, based on 60+ Pride events around the world.
3. Cities with the most mentions of LGBTQ + “gay friendly” in their reviews in the past 10 years.

2024-05-29T09:03:00

(BPT) – There’s nothing quite like the lure of the outdoors when the sun is shining, temperatures are heating up and the world is in bloom. Unfortunately, while you and your family are enjoying all that the warmer months have to offer, mosquitoes are too.

To help improve your experience as you spend more time outdoors this season, TruGreen, the nation’s leading lawn care treatment provider, shares four reasons you may be attracting mosquitoes without even knowing it — and preventive measures you can take to help keep them at bay.

1. Donning flowery perfume

Before you opt for floral scents throughout the summer months, consider that you may be unintentionally enticing mosquitoes. The reaction from the floral scent on your skin’s surface attracts mosquitoes.

Before heading outside, you may want to avoid floral perfumes, lotions and sunscreens — or think twice before going outside soon after applying.

2. Enjoying a cold brew

While many people like to drink beer at friends and family outdoor gatherings, beer — or any alcohol — expands your capillaries which sends more blood to your skin’s surface. As a result, your body temperature increases, making you produce more sweat and carbon dioxide — a perfect concoction to intrigue mosquitoes.

The best advice? Save IPAs for your indoor gatherings and choose non-alcoholic, sugar-free beverages while you’re having fun in the sun.

3. Attractive — but stagnant — bodies of water

Decor such as bird baths, flower pots, or ponds can provide great flora and fauna for your outdoor space, but be aware that stagnant bodies of water are a mosquito-favorite breeding ground. Any kind of outdoor decor or container holding water is an appealing place for mosquitoes to meet, mate and lay eggs.

To help prevent mosquitoes from intruding on your outdoor get-togethers, scout your property frequently to empty and dry standing bodies of water.

4. Wearing dark-colored and tight clothing

Mosquitoes have limited eyesight (their sense of smell is much better!), but their small eyes can easily see bold, dark colors including navy blue, black, gray and red. They can also bite through clothes, which gets right to your skin when wearing form-fitting clothing.

You can make yourself less of a target by opting for loose-fitting clothing with paler colors that are less likely to get their attention — like white or yellow. Best yet, wearing lighter, looser clothing can also help you feel cooler when the temps heat up.

“We can all agree that the presence of mosquitoes is less than thrilling,” said Dr. Roger May, TruGreen’s director of technical operations. “If mosquitoes continue to be a problem in homeowners’ backyards, I recommend they consider TruGreen’s Mosquito Defense treatment, which can help target these pests and create a more comfortable outdoor environment to enjoy all season long!”

2024-05-29T08:01:00

(BPT) – As the seasons change, a familiar moment of truth happens in many households. When you’re turning over your closets — putting away your sweaters until next year, and bringing out the t-shirts, shorts and sundresses — you begin wondering how your summer clothes mysteriously got one size smaller over the winter. And then the realization hits: your New Year’s resolution to exercise more and eat right has fallen by the wayside. It’s all too common. According to recent research out of The Ohio State University, only 9% of Americans who make resolutions stick to them. Some 23% quit in the first week and 43% quit by the end of January.

It’s not the resolutions themselves that are the problem. Exercising more is an excellent goal! It’s the motivation factor. How can you make healthy lifestyle changes that will stick? Dana Ryan, Ph.D., MA, MBA, director of sports performance, nutrition and education and Chair of the Herbalife Fitness Advisory Board at Herbalife, says it’s all about enjoyment, community and confidence.

“In my opinion, the magic ingredient that helps boost the motivation is making friends and becoming part of a community,” Ryan says. “The added accountability that friendships or fitness mates can provide can help to create long-lasting healthy active habits.”

The Ohio State research study found the same thing. Accountability is a key factor in sticking with positive changes. But, it’s about more than dutifully reporting in. Much more. Here are Ryan’s top three tips for making healthy changes in your lifestyle that stick, supported by research from the National Library of Medicine.

Choose an activity you enjoy while you’re doing it. It’s crucial to pick an activity you enjoy and that feels good to your body. This is a huge predictor of success, and it’s a typical area that people get wrong. When embarking on a fitness journey, many people focus on how they feel after the workout is over. A sense of accomplishment, that buzz of electricity, a rush of endorphins. But if you’re slogging through a workout — running on a treadmill as you watch the distance tick off, ever so slowly — to feel good after it’s over, it’s likely you won’t stick to it for long. Burnout will kick in quickly and you’ll be making excuses to skip the gym. Instead, find an activity that makes you feel good while you’re doing it.

Not sure what that is? Try different things. Take a yoga class, experiment with Pilates, book a few sessions with a personal trainer at the gym, join the rowing club on a nearby lake or river, rent a kayak for a few hours. Dust off your bike and get it tuned up, and take it for a spin. Find a pickleball club near you. Get those 10,000 steps in with a neighbor each morning. You’ll find something you like to do, guaranteed.

Stick with it past the learning curve. This is key. Give it a shot. It’s especially true if you’re trying a new activity. Didn’t realize how hard it is to hold the downward dog pose in yoga? Feel clumsy in a rowing shell? Can’t lift as much weight as you thought you could? Don’t sweat it. You don’t have to be perfect right away. Most people aren’t Serena Williams the first time they pick up a tennis racket. The secret is to give it a little time for your body to get used to those new movements. You’ll get better at it. Yoga will get easier, you’ll be able to bike farther, Pilates will feel more natural. It is at that point you’ll start to feel body confidence. And then you’re hooked.

Find a community where you feel recognized and supported. Here’s where accountability comes into play. But remember, it’s not about dutifully reporting in. It’s about finding a community to support your fitness goals. It could be a yoga class that you take at the same time each week, or a fitness club you frequent every day after work. It could be a workout buddy you meet up with at the park, a group of neighbors who walk together, a wellness coach who motivates you through your nutrition and fitness routine, or even your dog, who waits at the door each morning with his leash. Numerous studies show how finding community, even if it’s a community of just one other person, helps people achieve their fitness goals.

Each of these tips builds on and supports the others. If you pick an activity that you enjoy, you’ll experience a heightened emotional response and a greater release of the exercise-induced happy hormones dopamine and serotonin. This induced feeling of joy may encourage you to keep at it. If you keep at it beyond the learning curve, you’ll master body movement and feel confident, and that will keep you coming back for more. And if you do it with a buddy, it will elevate your social connections and encourage you further.

Even if those resolutions fell by the wayside, it’s not too late to pick them up! And watch how those summer clothes will magically become the right size again, just in time for the warmer weather.

2024-05-29T08:01:00

(BPT) – Days are getting longer, weather is getting warmer and the anticipation of fun, freedom and frivolity grows. Just like there are 99 days from Memorial Day to Labor Day, there are at least 99 ways to elevate your summer dishes with walnuts. Whether it’s cookouts, picnics, festive celebrations or on-the-go, walnuts can add to just about any dish or treat with their subtle nuttiness, gentle crunch and buttery texture.

From ice cream toppings, smoothies, parfaits, trail mix, avocado toast and much more, the possibilities are endless. Not only do California walnuts provide great flavor and texture, but they also deliver a plant-based nutritional punch. They provide protein (4g/oz), fiber (2g/oz) and are a good source of magnesium (10% DV).* Walnuts are also the only nut with an excellent source of the essential plant-based omega-3 ALA (2.5g/oz).*

Here are a few ideas and tasty recipes to inspire more ways to enjoy:

Sweet additions

Keep a bag of California walnuts in your fridge to top all of your favorite desserts — like ice cream sundaes and yogurt parfaits, muffins and cakes. You can also add them to breakfast favorites like pancakes, waffles and smoothies.

Savory enhancements

Use walnuts to develop extra flavor and texture in a wide variety of meals and snacks. From fresh summer salads and avocado toast, to using them to create turmeric-spiced walnuts or kid-friendly trail mix, the choices are many for how to enjoy.

Boost walnut flavor and texture

California walnuts are perfect to eat just as they are, but you can boost their distinctive nuttiness and level up their crunch factor by giving them a quick toast on your stovetop or in the oven.

• Stovetop: Heat a large frying pan, with no oil or butter added, at medium high. Add walnuts only in a single layer in the dry pan, stirring frequently as they start to brown, for approximately 5 minutes.
• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Walnuts should be arranged on a baking sheet in a single layer and toasted for about 8 minutes, until lightly browned.

Make sure to let the walnuts cool before using them in your favorite recipe or just enjoying them as a snack.

Must-try summer recipes featuring walnuts

If you’re looking for new recipes to experience these tasty nuts, you’re in luck. Here are three easy ways to add more walnuts into dishes your friends and family will love.

Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower with Walnuts

Who wouldn’t love a quick and easy starter you can cook up without heating up the house during hot summer days? This spicy, plant-based app is made in the air fryer and is perfect to serve for family get-togethers, festive gatherings or outdoor movie nights.

Three Bean Salad with Walnut Chimichurri

This tasty, crowd-pleasing side dish is the perfect contribution to any summer barbecue, picnic or potluck.

Strawberry Walnut Shortcake Trifle

For a dessert that’s as pretty to look at as it is yummy to eat, this easy recipe combines everything you love about summer desserts — fresh fruit, hints of sweetness and fluffy cake — heightened with the satisfying crunch of California walnuts.

To ensure your California walnuts keep their great taste and freshness longer, store them in an air-tight container in the fridge — not the pantry. For more recipe inspiration and ideas to help you just add walnuts visit Walnuts.org.

Resources:

* U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service. FoodData Central, 2019. fdc.nal.usda.gov.

2024-05-28T08:01:00

(BPT) – Airlines are forecasting a record year for summer travel, with carriers expected to transport 271 million passengers, up 6.3% from last year — and with more flights come more travel-related carbon emissions. There are lots of great ways to reduce your impact this summer when traveling, like packing lighter, choosing non-stop flights, selecting airlines that offer biofuels, and more, but even then, unavoidable carbon emissions remain.

Offsetting one’s travel using high-quality, verified carbon credits is an extremely effective way of reducing those unavoidable emissions — but it’s important to remember that not all carbon credits are created equal. Finding travel offset programs that utilize high-integrity carbon credits can ensure that you’re reducing your emissions, doing some good for the planet, and doing a world of good for its people.

Here are five easy ways to make sure you’re offsetting your travel with high-quality carbon credits that are actually making an impact.

Beware of generalities.

Do you know exactly which project will receive your money? Carefully review the language. Offers that rely on vague language such as “Projects that help reduce emissions” or “Projects such as” or “Projects like” without providing additional detail are classic smokescreens. Insist on specific information: Which project will receive my money? What does the project actually do? Where in the world does the project exist? Is the community involved and benefitting? Has the project been scientifically verified? Insist on specific project details, and if they’re unwilling or unable to provide those details, that’s your sign to walk away.

Follow the money.

Carbon credits can vary wildly in price, and while that can be attributed to any number of factors from the actual cost of materials and labor to run the project to the laws of supply and demand, there’s simply no excuse for the travel offset provider to not be completely transparent about their pricing structure and clear about how much is reaching the carbon project. Are there hidden “transaction fees” or “convenience charges”? For example, at nonprofit Cool Effect, more than 90% of each dollar donated goes directly to helping carbon-reducing projects, with only 9.87% to help cover administration such as payment processing, scientific documentation, and registration fees. If a travel offset provider is not transparent about where the money goes, who gets what, and how they fit into the process, proceed cautiously.

Look for a real impact on the planet

Look for projects that reduce emissions that otherwise would not be reduced — for instance, planting a tree now that is earmarked to be cut down in ten years is not making a real impact on emissions, just kicking the can down the road. A high-quality carbon project should use data and science to clearly show an immediate, tangible impact on reducing or removing emissions and have a plan that continues these reductions for generations.

Look for a real impact on people

Globally, climate mitigation and adaptation are underfunded by $1.7 trillion per year, and those that need the most support are in some of the most at-risk and impoverished places on the planet. Governments are nowhere close to meeting this need, but studies show that the private sector could cover about 70% of climate financing globally. A high-quality carbon project doesn’t just support a reduction in emissions, it is a powerful tool to route carbon finance into these places that need it most, providing vulnerable communities on the front lines of the fight against climate change with much needed support in the form of job creation, poverty reduction, school improvements, sanitation, health care, updated infrastructure, among other tangible benefits.

Insist on seeing some credentials.

Critics of travel offsets often claim that you cannot trust many of the offerings currently available on the market thanks to lack of transparency, measurable results, and a general insufficiency of credibility. Nonprofit Cool Effect agrees. Some travel offset programs rely on vague details, carbon credits that are unverified, are lacking strong scientific backing, or do not disclose pricing details. These same critics also claim that since there are travel offset programs with lower quality carbon credits, all of them should be classified as ineffective. This is where there is disagreement. We must do everything we can to limit our emissions first, but we will all still have a footprint. You can support the planet by utilizing travel offset programs that rely on carbon projects that have been verified by a trusted major carbon credit standard and demonstrates that your carbon credit provider has done their due diligence when evaluating projects.

Reducing the impact of our summer travel is more important than ever. Aviation accounts for just 2.5% of global CO2 emissions and has contributed around 4% to global warming to date. We all should be doing everything we can do to reduce that impact, and travel offsets, funded by high-quality carbon credits, can do just that. The climate crisis demands that we take action to reduce our travel emissions, but that action doesn’t need to come at the expense of seeing the world and connecting with loved ones. This summer, don’t just travel — travel with purpose and make your journey a force for good.

2024-05-28T14:15:00

(BPT) – The summer travel season is fast approaching, and there is no better time than now to start planning your next adventure. Hilton’s latest trends report found adventure is a top priority for nearly half of travelers in 2024, and as more consumers turn to budget-conscious decision making, Spark by Hilton hotels are an excellent way to stretch hard-earned travel dollars.

Spark offers travelers practical, consistent and affordable accommodations with new hotels opening in some of the most popular leisure destinations across the United States. Whether you are boarding a flight or embarking on a road trip, Spark promises a premium economy stay without compromising quality.

When you are ready to explore your next summer escape, enhance your trip by booking a stay at a Spark by Hilton hotel in these vacation hot spots.

Hilton Head Island, SC

Perfect for a sun- and sand-filled getaway, Spark by Hilton Hilton Head Island is less than a mile from the beach. The property boasts a fitness center and outdoor swimming pool and is surrounded by shopping, dining, golf and nature trails.

Mystic, CT

Art, history and nature lovers will have a great time at Spark by Hilton Mystic Groton, the first-ever Spark hotel! Before you visit the Mystic Aquarium, Mystic Seaport Museum and Olde Mistick Village — all just a mile from the hotel — fuel up at the complimentary coffee and bagel bar. When you’re done shopping and dining downtown, hit the outdoor pool for a quick swim or relax in your room and stream your favorite content.

Savannah, GA

For travelers seeking convenience, book a stay at Spark by Hilton Savannah Airport, just three miles from Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport, where you’ll be picked up by a complimentary shuttle. If you’re looking forward to water sports, take a day trip to the Boro water park and Butter Bean Beach or relax by the hotel pool. Catch a race at Roebling Road, see the sights of the Savannah Historic District, or bask in nature at the Tom Triplett Community Park, all less than 25 minutes from the hotel.

Siesta Key, FL

Dreaming of a beach vacation? Spark by Hilton Sarasota Siesta Key Gateway is minutes from the beach, and the hotel even offers a complimentary beach shuttle. There’s plenty of sights to see and things to do with the Palm Arcade, Sarasota Pavilion, Skiers Island and Marie Selby Botanical Gardens nearby.

For other destinations in the Sunshine State, consider Spark by Hilton St. Augustine Historic District, half a mile from Castillo de San Marcos National Monument and St. George Street. Or be one of the first guests at Spark by Hilton Ormond Beach Oceanfront, where every room boasts a private patio or balcony to enjoy breezy Florida sunsets.

Charlotte, NC

Whether you’re a sports or music fan, stay at Spark by Hilton Charlotte Tyvola I-77, just 15 minutes from the famous Spectrum Center and six miles from The Bank of America Stadium. Thrill seekers will have a blast at the Carowinds Amusement Park. In the morning, enjoy a free breakfast so you’re ready to enjoy all the entertainment the city has to offer.

Atlanta, GA

Whether you root for the visiting or home team, stay at Spark by Hilton Atlanta Cumberland Ballpark, just one mile from Truist Park. This property is near Downtown Atlanta, where there’s no shortage of dining, shopping and entertainment. When you want to cool down from seeing the Hotlanta sights, take a dip in the hotel’s indoor or outdoor pool.

Regardless of where your summer travels take you, Spark offers simple, reliable and straightforward hospitality with clean, comfortable rooms, useful amenities and helpful service all at an affordable price.

2024-05-25T10:01:00

(BPT) – Scam artists are constantly changing tactics to steal your personal identifiable information (PII), including account usernames and passwords, Social Security numbers, birth dates, credit and debit card numbers, personal identification numbers (PINs) or other sensitive information. With this information, they can carry out crimes like financial fraud that can be difficult and frustrating for victims to remedy.

The United States Postal Inspection Service is working hard to stop these scammers in their tracks. You can help too, by familiarizing yourself with these identity fraud scams designed to trick you into giving up your “financial DNA” and turning over your personal identifiable information (PII) to imposters.

1. Phishing

If you ever receive an email about a package delivery or unpaid online postage charges, usually with the subject line, “Delivery Failure Notification,” be careful. These phishing emails appear to be from the U.S. Postal Service but they are not and you should not interact with them. The phishing emails may contain either a spoofed or fake URL for you to follow or a file that if opened, can activate a virus, both resulting in stealing your personal information.

How can you tell if an email is NOT from USPS or the Postal Inspection Service? If the email requests “immediate action,” has poor grammar and spelling errors, asks you to confirm PII or asks for payment of any kind, you’re likely dealing with a phishing email. USPS officials would never contact consumers directly asking for payment or PII.

If you receive a phishing email:

• Treat your personal information like cash
• Don’t click on any links
• Forward USPS-related spam emails to spam@uspis.gov
• Report non-USPS spam emails to the Federal Trade Commission
• Delete the email

2. Smishing

Have you received unsolicited mobile text messages with an unfamiliar or strange web link that indicates a USPS delivery requires your response? You’re likely dealing with a smishing scam. This type of deceptive text message lures recipients into providing personal or financial information. Scammers often attempt to disguise themselves as a government agency, bank or other company to lend legitimacy to their claims.

Even if you’ve signed up for USPS tracking, pay close attention to the message. The Postal Service will never ask you for PII in a text message, redirect you to another site for payment, or contact you via text message, unless you initiated the request.

If you receive a smishing text message from the Postal Service:

• Don’t click on the link
• Don’t reply
• Forward the smishing/text message to 7726 or email spam@uspis.gov
• Report non-USPS fraud to the Federal Trade Commission
• Delete the text message
• Block spam messages
• Review your cellphone bill for suspicious charges
• Keep your security software up to date

3. Vishing

You may have enjoyed the game telephone when you were younger but calls from scammers trying to get your personal information are nothing to play with. A new twist on phishing, vishing is something you need to be aware of. Vishing is short for voice phishing and scammers will try to hook you as soon as you answer the phone.

Here’s how to spot it.

Scammers call from a number that may look familiar or even appear to be from a legitimate source, like your bank or a government agency. The caller, however, is anything but legit. They may claim there’s an issue with your account or a problem that requires your immediate attention. Then the scammers will ask for sensitive information like Social Security numbers, credit card details or passwords.

To protect yourself from vishing:

• Verify the identity of the caller
• Ask yourself why the caller is asking for your information
• Never give out sensitive information over the phone
• Report the call to the alleged bank, government agency or company
• Block spam callers
• Place your number on the national Do Not Call List

4. Quishing

QR codes are incredibly common nowadays. You’ve probably seen them on posters, food menus and TV screens. Take caution before you scan. Some QR codes may be a form of phishing known as quishing.

If you receive a message from an unfamiliar email address or text message or find a poster in a high-traffic location, don’t scan it. If you do, the QR code could take you to a scammer’s website (which may look legitimate) but is designed to scam you out of your PII.

If you find or receive a suspicious QR code:

• Don’t scan it, especially if the message or poster urges you to act immediately
• Report the QR code to the bank, government agency or company that the scam artist is impersonating
• Block scam messages

Stay alert!

Scammers are always on the hunt for sensitive information. Protect yourself and others by using caution and reporting suspicious emails, texts, calls, voicemails and QR codes to the proper authorities. To learn more about how to protect yourself from identity fraud, visit uspis.gov/identity-fraud-2024. You can also find additional fraud prevention resources on our website at USPIS.gov.