Category: Brandpoint Lifestyle

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.

2024-03-14T12:01:00

(BPT) – Spending time together as a family in the great outdoors provides ample opportunities to create treasured memories. Out in nature, you can unwind and discover the world’s natural wonders while bonding with those you love.

Of course, a great camping trip doesn’t happen by accident. If you’ve been camping before, you know that careful planning can make or break your outdoor experience. As you plan your next camping adventure, check out these four tips that can help elevate your family vacation.

1. Create a storage system

A storage system can streamline packing and unpacking your camping items. Use clear plastic bins so you can quickly see and find what you need when you need it.

Remember to include a list of items on each bin lid so everyone in your family can help keep your gear organized. For example, store cookware, utensils, and dishes in one bin and include a list of the individual items and how many of each are in the bin. Consider meal prepping, investing in durable food containers, and organizing them in bins or coolers.

Not only does a storage system help you stay organized throughout your trip, but it also makes storing your equipment between trips easier. When you’re ready for your next outdoor adventure, simply grab your bins and go!

2. Upgrade your gear

Basic gear can do the job, but if your family goes camping often, it’s time to invest in high-quality equipment for comfort and convenience.

For example, consider purchasing larger tents with room dividers so everyone can have a little privacy during the family vacation. Many larger tents also come with a vestibule, allowing you to remove muddy boots and gear outside the tent while remaining sheltered from the elements.

Beyond tents, look into upgrading your camping chairs, sleeping cots and cooking equipment. Also, pick up a power station like the Anker SOLIX C800 Plus Portable Power Station. With just one power station, you can power up to 10 devices at once, including electric stoves, coffee makers, kettles and other camping appliances to enhance your camping experience.

3. Light it up

Once the sun sets, campgrounds can get very dark. To help you navigate at night and keep the good times rolling long after sunset, make sure to bring enough lighting! String fairy lights inside tents and popups for soft mood lighting. Grab extra stake lights from your garden and place them along the entrance to your campsite and in front of tents to help light the way during a nighttime bathroom run. Make sure to have lanterns, flashlights and headlamps on hand, too.

For more illumination, just break out the C800 power station, equipped with two water-resistant LED camping lights with three lighting modes — candle, flood and flashlight — lasting up to eight hours, ensuring peace of mind as the sun sets.

4. Embrace outdoor entertainment

Just because you’re outdoors doesn’t mean you can’t bring a little digital entertainment with you. Take photos, record videos or watch a movie under the stars so you can capture memories while you make them.

To hold your equipment, use the C800’s retractable pole, which you can turn into a hanger, tripod or selfie stick. Just attach lights, cameras, phones or a projector to the pole. Now, you won’t have to worry about the stability of your video! Enjoy the picture-perfect clarity whether you’re watching or making content during your family adventure.

Let these four tips help you elevate your family camping experience. By making your outdoor adventure more comfortable and convenient, you’re sure to make memories your family will remember fondly for years to come.

2024-03-14T07:01:00

(BPT) – While minimalist dressing isn’t an entirely new trend, the term “quiet luxury” was popularized in 2023 and inspired by a timelessly chic approach to fashion. This timeless aesthetic is all about taking a bespoke, understated approach to dressing as an antithesis to the “fast fashion” movement.

Enter the Little Planet Spring 2024 collection ­— a collection of quiet luxury essentials designed just for your little ones. Little Planet elevates your child’s wardrobe with classic basics made in the softest organic and sustainable fabrics.

Starting with pieces like organic cotton tees, 2-piece gauze sets and the signature stitch cardigan, you can create a neutral capsule wardrobe that can be paired and worn in many ways. While quiet luxury focuses on luxury items, the look can be achieved on a budget while focusing on a few elevated everyday essentials.

What Makes Little Planet ‘Quiet Luxury’

The quiet luxury movement leads with an air of elegance, timelessness and quality. All Little Planet styles are designed with sustainability in mind and crafted with organic cotton and recycled materials. With its classic styles and silhouettes and forgoing any large logos or branding, Little Planet has stayed true to its unique identity and ageless designs.

The clothes that embody the minimalist dressing approach are often in neutral colors, understated and simple. Little Planet offers basics that adhere to a minimal neutral color palette. The entire collection, no matter the season, has been meaningfully designed to pair seamlessly with any style offered on the site or in stores.

What You’ll Find This Season

Family Matching Moments

Just recently, Little Planet extended its sizing options from baby and toddler to include kid sizes as well. This means that Little Planet’s most-loved styles can now be found all the way up to size 8. This size expansion creates new possibilities for family matching moments and allows for designs to be passed down from sibling to sibling as little ones grow.

Chambray Classics

Spring 2024 brings a fresh new introduction of chambray styles made with GOTS certified organic cotton. Soft and light chambray meets Little Planet’s signature silhouettes in classic shortalls, babydoll dresses, button-down shirts and of course the ever-popular bubble.

Inspired by Nature

Little Planet’s designers’ inspiration consists of styles that match back to the prehistoric animal print and dreamy vintage floral. The genius behind these designs creates endless mix-and-match potential with neutral colors and prints that pair with almost anything from Little Planet’s styles.

Meet the whole collection at SHOPLITTLEPLANET.COM | To the future with love^®

2024-03-13T07:01:01

(BPT) – The verdict is in, Punxsutawney Phil said spring is early this year — and that means it’s time to start planning for spring travel. While the goal of most trips is to relax, sometimes the cost of those trips and the planning that goes into it can be sources of stress. According to a recent Forbes Advisor Survey, nearly half of American travelers are likely to change their travel plans in 2024 due to high costs and inflation.

Vacation expenses can pile up, from airfare, hotels, car rentals and even healthcare needs, turning relaxing getaways into travel headaches. But not for AARP members, according to Steve Guilday, AARP Services Travel Director.

“The goal of a vacation is to take your mind off of your everyday stressors and AARP members have the opportunity to save critical dollars on some of the typically hefty travel expenses by utilizing their benefits,” said Guilday. “Whether traveling solo or with family and friends, AARP member benefits provide the savings you need to kick up your feet and enjoy that trip away from home.”

1. Dream Savings at Resorts

If resort life is calling you but you don’t want to break the bank, AARP members can save up to 10% off the best available rate at Hilton Hotels, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts and Choice Hotels. At Hilton, members receive late check-out until 2 p.m. when available. Add your AARP membership number to your Hilton Honors profile to ensure AARP rates surface when booking and to get instant Hilton Honors Silver status at all Hilton hotels, including Hampton by Hilton and Embassy Suites. Wyndham Rewards^® members earn points on qualified stays and receive exclusive members-only perks. From all-inclusive and beachfront getaways to road trip-ready locations, there’s a Hotel by Wyndham waiting to welcome you, including Trademark Collection^®, La Quinta^® and Wyndham Grand^®. With Choice Hotels, explore nearly 7,500 of their locations worldwide, including Country Inn & Suites, Cambria Hotels, Comfort Inn & Suites and Quality Inn.

2. Say Goodbye to Stress and Anxiety

Meditation and mindfulness have benefits that have become a core focus for people in recent years. According to FinancesOnline, approximately 200-500 million people engage in meditation worldwide, taking advantage of these mental and emotional benefits every single day. Meditation and calming your mind can also contribute to a more restful sleep. Many people have a hard time sleeping when they’re away from home, but you can get a good night’s rest and clear your mind while traveling with the click of a button by downloading Calm. AARP members receive an annual 30% off the first three years of their Calm Premium annual subscription, to help you get the relaxing sleep you need during your trip, or the night before a big departure.

Looking for another way to unwind? Wyndham Hotels & Resorts offers access to spa deals and packages at select locations across the world, including Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach in Clearwater, FL, and Westward Look Wyndham Grand Resort and Spa in Tucson, AZ. Choose from blissful treatments like massages, facials, body wraps and more.

3. Great Deals for Reliable Wheels

Whether you’re looking to explore nearby local spots or traveling afar to view this year’s solar eclipse on April 8, Avis and Budget take the load of expensive car rentals off your shoulders to help you explore new destinations.

AARP members save up to 30% off base rates or up to 35% when selecting Pay Now and will receive a 3% credit to apply to rentals within 12 months. Plus, members get an upgrade on compact through full-size car class bookings (based on availability), and an additional driver at no cost.

4. Feel Good When You’re on the Go

The cost of prescriptions should be the last thing on your mind when you’re preparing for a vacation. AARP^® Prescription Discounts Provided by Optum Rx^® can help keep the costs of those prescriptions down, so you can spend your money on fun excursions or a relaxing spa day at your destination. AARP members and nonmembers can get a free prescription discount card that can be used at over 66,000 pharmacies nationwide for savings on FDA-approved medications. AARP members also receive additional benefits, like deeper discounts on medications, home delivery, coverage for dependents and more.

Before you leave for your spring trip, consider getting your hearing checked so you can enjoy your vacation to the fullest. With AARP^® Hearing Solutions™ provided by UnitedHealthcare^® Hearing, members can save an average of $2,000 per pair on prescription hearing aids and 15% on accessories — no insurance needed! Plus, receive a no-cost hearing exam and consultation with personalized support through a large nationwide network of hearing care professionals. Whether your destination is tranquil nature or the middle of a bustling city, vacation is better when you can hear the world around you.

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

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

2024-03-12T09:35:00

(BPT) – Each year, industry leaders premiere their latest and greatest kitchen and bath products at the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS) — North America’s largest trade show dedicated to all aspects of kitchen and bath design.

At KBIS, trends are established. This year, the standout trend is the combination of technology and sustainability.

According to smart lifestyle expert Carley Knobloch, “I never believed it was enough to be able to remotely control our appliances from our smartphones. A truly smart home solves real problems and rises up to meet you where you are to make things easier and more comfortable. It was great to see how dialed-in smart kitchen appliances have become to both of those missions, whether it be by optimizing food preservation or taking the guesswork out of creating a beautiful and healthy dinner for one’s family.”

You don’t have to be in the industry to find out which brands and products are on the cutting edge. Check out these four home appliances that can transform your life with ease, performance and efficiency.

1. Smart washer/dryer makes laundry a breeze

Bring accessibility, energy efficiency and convenience to your home with the 5.0-cubic-foot Mega Capacity Smart WashCombo™. In just under two hours, you can run a complete wash and dry cycle without transferring clothes.

As the largest capacity combo model available, the All-in-One WashCombo™ tackles heavy loads — including king-size comforters — without a special electrical hookup. Best of all, the appliance uses 60% less energy than a traditional LG vented model thanks to LG’s Inverter HeatPump™. The proprietary technology delivers quiet operation and the greatest energy efficiency of all washer/dryer combos.

2. Smart induction cooktops marry aesthetics and performance

Homeowners might be interested in the new ENERGY STAR certification for select cooking appliances. Take, for instance, smart induction cooktops like those from LG (available in 30- and 36-inch sizes) and a 36-inch model from Signature Kitchen Suite; they are the first in the industry to earn this distinction. The innovative kitchen appliances are as beautiful as they are efficient. Enjoy the stylish and professional look and feel of a ceramic induction cooktop that delivers exceptional power, precision and responsiveness for fast, efficient heating and even cooking. Plus, cleaning is simple with the SmoothTouch Glass Controls and smooth surface.

3. Transform your kitchen into a chef’s dream with a kitchen suite

Luxury brand Signature Kitchen Suite’s Transitional Series features built-in kitchen appliances spanning cooking, refrigeration and dishwasher categories for those who prefer transitional and contemporary kitchen designs. The collection of appliances features slimmer handles — a deliberate departure from conventional pro-style control knobs — and a satin stainless steel finish for an enhanced sleek aesthetic. Advanced smart technology empowers today’s forward-thinking home chefs to curate a true culinary experience.

Leading the collection is the Signature Kitchen Suite 30-inch Double Wall Oven. An innovative built-in camera lets home chefs monitor their dishes in real time, take snapshots and capture shareable time-lapse videos. Also, integrating the built-in camera with artificial intelligence propels the brand’s new “Gourmet AI” food recognition technology, which identifies ingredients and effortlessly generates delectable recipe suggestions through the ThinQ App.

4. Save more with Heat Pump Water Heaters

The new Inverter Heat Pump Water Heater from LG helps homeowners save money and reduce energy usage and their carbon footprint. This energy-efficient hot water solution combines heat pump technology with LG’s advanced smart control systems, raising the bar for residential water heaters. It is a highly energy-efficient alternative to conventional water heaters, surpassing ENERGY STAR certification requirements, and is available in a variety of capacities.

With potential energy savings of up to 76% compared to conventional electric heaters, the Inverter Heat Pump Water Heater minimizes reliance on supplemental electric resistance heat. According to EnergyStar.gov, heat pump water heaters earning ENERGY STAR certification can save a household of four approximately $550 per year on electric bills compared to a standard electric water heater and more than $5,610 over the product’s lifetime.

LG and Signature Kitchen Suite jointly received 12 awards and accolades during KBIS, including recognition as a finalist in KBIS’s DesignBites. Additionally, the LG WashCombo was honored as a Best of KBIS finalist in the sustainability standout category.

To learn about these and other groundbreaking, sustainable products, visit LG.com/US and SignatureKitchenSuite.com.

2024-03-12T14:01:00

(BPT) – Each March, AmeriCorps celebrates the work of its members and volunteers through AmeriCorps Week. In 2024, there is even more reason to celebrate as AmeriCorps marks its 30th anniversary.

From rebuilding after disasters, combatting hunger, and supporting veterans and military families to helping students stay on track, assisting seniors with living independently, and advancing economic opportunity, AmeriCorps Week honors the millions who have committed to get things done for America for the past three decades.

Meet five AmeriCorps members and volunteers who are making a difference in their communities.

Dionne Johnson – Center for Community Health & Prevention in Rochester, NY

Everyone was impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic — including Dionne Johnson, who lost a loved one to the virus.

“I had a family member die from COVID-19, and it really touched me,” Johnson said. “That gave me the passion and lit the fire under me to actually pursue a career in public health.”

Now, Johnson is realizing her dreams of transforming public health in her community as a Public Health AmeriCorps member. In her work, she wants to teach people in Black and brown communities how they can learn to be healthy and advocate for themselves.

Chartell Grissom – Storytime Village in Wichita, Kansas

Lead For America Hometown fellow Chartell Grissom served as an AmeriCorps member with Storytime Village in Wichita, Kan. Her service focused on implementing programming to build a love of reading among children in high-need communities.

Beyond the local impact she made, Grissom remarked that her service year and connections to her AmeriCorps peers were critical in enriching her nationwide perspective, building her leadership skills, and growing her confidence.

“As we say at Storytime Village, ‘It takes a village,’ and I am so grateful for my village,” noted Grissom.

Joanna Urive – Public Defender Agency in Anchorage, Alaska

Joanna Urive is an AmeriCorps alum who served at the Public Defender Agency in Anchorage, Alaska.

Clients of the agency often struggle with access to basic needs, and AmeriCorps members assist them with accessing substance use disorder treatment, housing, and public assistance.

Urive has gone above and beyond to support her clients and received the “Innovative Service” award at the Excellence in AmeriCorps Awards in 2023.

Iris Firgens – Great Lakes Inter-Tribal Council, Inc., in Wisconsin

The Great Lakes Inter-Tribal Council, Inc., recruits the community’s tribal elders to serve as AmeriCorps Seniors Senior Companions to their fellow elders, promoting health, well-being, and cultural connections.

Iris Firgens, a Senior Companion from the Menominee Nation, said “I joined AmeriCorps Seniors Senior Companion Program because I think it’s very important to help elders who are alone. They need companionship and friendship — someone they know they can count on.”

Firgens was recognized as Volunteer of the Year – Northeast Wisconsin at the Governor’s Service Awards.

Demetrius Bonafide – National Immigrant Justice Center in Chicago

AmeriCorps members help the National Immigrant Justice Center build capacity, streamline processes, and engage thousands of volunteers so that more people can receive immigration legal services.

AmeriCorps VISTA member Demetrius Bonafide shared, “I joined AmeriCorps because public service opportunities provide a unique experience to address poverty within underserved communities and build capacity-based solutions. My most memorable moment during service was witnessing testimonial victories by immigrant clients at celebrations.”

AmeriCorps Week is a time to recognize and thank members and volunteers like these and the more than 200,000 other Americans who serve with AmeriCorps each year and leave their communities better than they found them. For more information about AmeriCorps’s programs and to find ways to get involved, visit AmeriCorps.gov.

2024-03-11T13:11:00

(BPT) – Gerber Childrenswear’s biggest sale of the year is back — and bigger than ever. The spring Semi-Annual Sale of 2024 is well loved by parents for deep discounts and includes some of the lowest prices of the year on everything for baby and toddler.

Looking to stock up on favorites, bigger sizes and new spring faves? There are deals for every little one in your life:

The Original Onesies^® Brand Bodysuits

Designed for ease and movement, parents everywhere love the original Onesies^® brand bodysuits from Gerber Childrenswear. With so many styles, patterns and silhouettes available, it’s the perfect time to stock up on bodysuits to take you through the seasons ahead. Choose from sleeveless to long-sleeve and everyday solids to the trendiest prints. During the sale, shoppers can score Onesies^® brand bodysuits for just $2 each.

Super Cozy Sleep ‘N Plays

Ask any parent what their go-to outfit is for little ones and the sounds of Sleep ‘N Plays will ring loudly. They’re the ultimate loungewear, specifically designed to keep baby comfy all day (or night) while they do the things they love. Scoop up multipacks in a variety of colors and prints during the sale as low as $5 each.

Buttery Soft Viscose Sets for All-Day Play

For parents who love the soft feel and all-day comfort of viscose apparel but not the high price that comes with it, you’re going to want to jump on this deal — Our Softest Edit is available for its lowest price ever, starting at $8 and up. Made predominantly from eucalyptus and blended with Spandex, the collection of pajamas, rompers and dresses has a variety of solids and prints to choose from. It’s the perfect collection for busy babies and active toddlers.

Fun Toys for Early Learning

Whether you have a basket to fill, a new baby in your life or a spring birthday coming up, Gerber’s line of soft toys are the perfect gift. Including super snuggly security blankets and more stimulating options, these soft toys are a steal at $5 each.

Gerber Childrenswear is your one-stop shop for baby and toddler essentials that won’t break the bank. Stock up on your favorite styles now through March 17.