Category: Brandpoint Lifestyle

2023-11-13T08:01:00

(BPT) – It comes as no surprise that apple cider is a star flavor of the fall season. However, this top flavor trend is about more than just sipping on a mug of warm happiness. This fall, people are thinking beyond the basics to reimagine this classic flavor in new ways that provide delectable twists that delight the taste buds.

Apple cider flavoring + bacon = love

You’ve heard of Applewood smoked bacon, but how about HORMEL^® BLACK LABEL^® Artificially Flavored Apple Cider Thick Cut Bacon? This limited-time variety perfectly marries the ever-popular essence of America’s fastest-growing bacon brand[i] with one of autumn’s trendiest flavors. One bite and you’ll enjoy a sweet, appley twist on the smoky, delicious taste of the bacon you already know and love.

No matter how you cook it, this bacon is great as a standalone for breakfast, brunch, snacks and more. Go a little further and explore the culinary possibilities of bacon and you’ll see it can be used in so many more ways. Use it as a tasty garnish for drinks. Add a slice of fresh apple and apple cider flavored cooked bacon on top of burgers or in grilled cheese. You can even include it in desserts!

Apple Cider Artificially Flavored Bacon Lattice Pie

Apple pie needs no introduction, but when you top it with a stunning lattice pattern of HORMEL^® BLACK LABEL^® Apple Cider Flavored Bacon, you’ll leave everyone in awe. The savory bacon is the perfect pairing to sweet, apple pie, making this dish a combination of lip-smacking flavors that leaves a lasting impression.

Interested in making this dish for your next dinner, potluck or tailgate party? Here are the details:

Servings: 8
Prep time: 15 minutes
Total: 1 hour 30 minutes

Ingredients:
1 refrigerated pie crust
8 Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced (6 cups)
1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons brown sugar, divided
1/4 cup all-purpose flour 2 tablespoons maple syrup, divided
1 teaspoon apple pie spice
1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
10 slices HORMEL^® BLACK LABEL^® Artificially Flavored Apple Cider Thick Cut Bacon
1 tablespoon apple cider

Directions:

1. Heat oven to 400 F. Lay pie crust in bottom of a 9-inch pie pan. Crimp as desired.
2. In large bowl, stir together apples, 1/2 cup brown sugar, flour, 1 tablespoon maple syrup, apple pie spice and lemon zest.
3. Transfer apple mixture into pie crust.
4. Weave bacon strips into a lattice on top of pie, trimming ends if necessary. Place pie on large, rimmed baking sheet.
5. In small bowl, combine remaining brown sugar and maple syrup. Stir in apple cider.
6. Bake 40 minutes. Brush bacon lattice with brown sugar mixture. Bake 10 minutes or until bacon lattice is crisped, apple mixture is bubbly and crust is deep golden brown.
7. Allow to cool completely before slicing.

Apple Cider Artificially Flavored Bacon and Brie Sandwich

Now that your stomach is grumbling, do you want even more inspiration for using this limited-time bacon flavor? Everyone knows bacon goes great in sandwiches, but when you create a sandwich with complementary flavors like brie cheese and apple cider flavored bacon, you elevate the meal to a whole new level. Here’s the recipe:

Servings: 1
Prep time: 30 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Ingredients:

1 ciabatta roll, split and toasted
Whole grain Dijon mustard
3 thin slices Brie cheese
1/2 apple, sliced
4 slices HORMEL^® BLACK LABEL^® Artificially Flavored Apple Cider Thick Cut Bacon, cooked

Directions:

1. Spread cut sides of roll with mustard.
2. Top bottom of roll with cheese, apple and bacon. Assemble sandwich.

More recipe and apple cider inspiration

As a foundational flavor of the fall season, apple cider continues to gain popularity. In fact, did you know that November 18 is Apple Cider Day? Whether you embrace all things apple cider on this day or make it a season-long love affair, let the flavor and HORMEL^® BLACK LABEL^® inspire your snacks and meals. Try HORMEL^® BLACK LABEL artificially flavored Apple Cider^® Bacon at retailers nationwide and look forward to the brand’s upcoming rotating limited-time flavor profiles. For more information and to explore additional recipes, visit Hormel.com.

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2023-11-13T08:01:00

(BPT) – More than three million small businesses were started in the first half of 2023, up nearly 6% from the first six months of 2022. While new business formation is thriving, business owners continue to face a number of challenges: Inflation (30%), hiring (17%), taxes (16%) and supply chain disruptions (16%) were all cited as top challenges for small business leaders in the Chase for Business’ Midyear Business Leaders Outlook survey.

“Business growth is strong and despite ongoing economic challenges, there’s plenty of opportunities for entrepreneurship across the country,” said Ben Walter, CEO of Chase for Business. “It’s important for business leaders to have a space to network and recognize their collective successes. It’s also equally important for them to find opportunities for continued education and moments of inspiration.”

To help entrepreneurs take on these challenges, Chase for Business held its inaugural Make Your Move Summit in Frisco, Texas from Nov. 1-3, bringing together more than 1,100 small business owners to provide them the tips and tools they need to move their business forward. The complimentary event gave attendees the opportunity to hear from notable speakers — like businessman and investor Mark Cuban, former WNBA MVP Sheryl Swoopes and Pro Football Hall of Famer Emmitt Smith — enjoy educational breakout sessions and network with other local entrepreneurs.

Here are the three key takeaways from the Make Your Move Summit:

1. Happy Employees Lead to Happy Customers

Small business owners are still grappling with the tightest labor market in decades. They know engaged and committed employees are core to business survival — especially in today’s environment — with three in five (61%) business owners ranking keeping valued employees as the most important way to manage costs in an inflationary environment.

Bob Jordan, President & CEO of Southwest Airlines, shared the secret behind the airline’s oft-celebrated company culture, saying, “We start everything with our people. Happy people lead to happy customers.”

As that connection between healthy employees and happy customers has come into focus, business owners are responding with a renewed emphasis on establishing a positive company culture. They are focusing on mental health and stress management, with nearly 13% more business leaders reportedly offering mental health days since November 2022. More than half say they’ve tried to implement healthy habits to manage stress in their own lives.

2. Values are Hugely Important to New Age Consumers

While price is a major component of whether a purchase is made, consumers are increasingly paying more attention to the values of the businesses they choose to support. Business leaders recognize the importance of being purpose-driven, as 45% identified keeping their why top of mind as an important quality to cope with an inflationary environment.

Emma Grede, Serial Entrepreneur, CEO & Chairwoman of the Fifteen Percent Pledge, echoed that sentiment during her two sessions at the Make Your Move Summit. Appearing on behalf of Chase Ink, Grede talked to business owners about how she built her businesses by prioritizing accessibility and inclusivity, while also providing business owners with real-time feedback about understanding and articulating their why.

3. New Revenue Streams are Key to Combatting Inflation

Most business owners (70%) think rising costs are here to stay and recognize that combating inflation isn’t as simple as raising prices and cutting costs. In fact, they are finding new revenue streams and rethinking their brick-and-mortar strategy. More than one-third (36%) are reporting operations or sales outside of the United States, up from 28% last year. Similarly, the overall percentage of respondents who plan to add or increase physical locations due to growth rose 10% (45% in 2023 from 35% in 2022) while the percentage of respondents who plan to reduce their locations also increased from 15% in 2022 to 23% in the latest survey.

Several of the business leaders at the Make Your Move Summit highlighted the importance of transparency and authenticity, which was echoed by business leaders who cited honest and transparent communication with customers (58%) as the single most important quality needed to cope with the inflationary environment.

Chase for Business expects to host its second Make Your Move Summit in 2024. Visit chase.com/business for more information about the tools and resources available for business leaders, and to stay updated on the latest announcements surrounding next year’s Summit.

The statements, views and opinions that will be expressed during the event are those of the presenters and are not necessarily endorsed by, or reflect the views or positions of, JPMorgan Chase Bank, NA or any of its affiliates. The presentation is for informational purposes and is not a recommendation or solicitation of any particular actions. JPMorgan Chase Bank, NA and its affiliates are not liable for decisions made or actions taken in reliance on any of the information covered during the event.

JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. Member FDIC.

©2023 JPMorgan Chase & Co.

2023-11-13T06:01:00

(BPT) – In the wake of an electrifying sports season with record-breaking viewership for the WNBA and landmark victories for women athletes globally, Deloitte released “The Impact of Sports on Women’s Professional Success,” new research that looks at the interplay between athletic experience and women’s professional accomplishments.

According to the survey, 85% of women who played sports say the skills they developed were important to success in their professional careers. With the women’s matches of the U.S. Open and the Women’s World Cup shattering viewership records, it’s an ideal time to take a look at the role sports can play in the development and success of women in business.

The intersection of sports and professional success

Sports can be a great training ground for the future. The research found that 91% of surveyed women in leadership roles attribute their success in business to their sports backgrounds.

The women surveyed said the skills they’ve developed playing sports include teamwork (69%) and leadership (41%), followed by managing stress and pressure (36%), problem-solving abilities (35%) and effective communication (34%).

And these skills aren’t just helping with home team victories, they’re setting women up to win in the workplace. The perceptions around the power of sports show an impressive 61% of all respondents agree that girls who engage in sports are likely to have successful careers.

Many roads lead to the top

Of course, playing sports is just one of many pathways where young girls can follow their interests and cultivate critical life skills. For instance, robotics or coding clubs may help sharpen abilities around logical reasoning and problem-solving, volunteer work can foster empathy, social awareness and the importance of giving back to one’s community, and the debate team and drama club may help with collaboration, confidence and public speaking.

The common thread, though, is the ability to gain the transferrable skills that are valued by many employers today.

The next generation of women leaders

The right environment to grow and develop new hobbies and skills could be integral to meeting current and future goals. When it comes to sports, clubs and activities, several factors, like an encouraging coach or motivational team captain, can make all the difference in one’s ability to excel.

Similarly, an empathetic and forward-thinking employer who champions women in the workplace can significantly impact opportunities for professional growth and development. An employer that values, empowers and intentionally invests in women professionals can help to create winning teams, leaders and companies.

Deloitte has fostered many firsts for women at work, starting in 1935 when Jennie Palen became the first woman to hold a managerial role at a lead accounting firm. She paved the way for all women professionals, as well as Deloitte’s first woman chair in 2003 and the first woman CEO of any Big Four organization in 2015. These are not just historical footnotes; they reflect a culture that is deeply committed to nurturing the professional growth of women.

“Deloitte has a longstanding history of supporting the advancement of women and we are proud of the invaluable contributions of the many women leaders in our organization. While progress has been made advancing women in society, we know there is more work to be done. Supporting the development of girls’ leadership skills throughout their youth will help prepare them to be our next generation of leaders,” said Jason Girzadas, CEO, Deloitte US.

Flourishing on and in your field

The data paints a vivid picture: sports can serve as a catalyst for women’s career success. And to increase the chances of winning the long game, a workplace that champions its women can help keep the momentum going and provide the environment to thrive.

The next time you walk past a school soccer field or see a flyer for the next coding competition, remember that these are more than just extracurriculars. They are foundational experiences, helping to shape the character and skill sets of the next generation of women leaders.

2023-11-13T04:01:00

(BPT) – Did you know at least one quarter of today’s workers have occupations connected to STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics)? That equals approximately 35 million people, according to a National Science Foundation report from 2021. And the field keeps growing — while gradually becoming more diverse, although women and people of color are still underrepresented.

With the rapid evolution of technology in every aspect of life, from the Internet of Things and augmented reality to cloud computing, machine learning and AI, the need for more employees with STEM skills and knowledge is critical. U.S. companies face a workforce shortage crisis, especially those requiring a STEM background. Students from elementary school through higher education need encouragement to pursue these subjects to fill this dire need, and to help them ensure their own professional, personal and financial success in the future.

How companies benefit from involvement in education

Companies providing financial support, mentorships and creative approaches to engage students in STEM topics will reap the benefit of a better prepared future workforce. For example, State Farm Insurance has been a strong supporter of educational efforts for years, launching programs that bring the excitement of STEM learning to students nationwide.

The pervasiveness of technology today emphasizes how crucial STEM backgrounds are for a wide range of jobs — even those you may not think of as STEM related. Today’s insurance industry, for instance, involves detailed analysis of complex data which is supported using machine learning and AI, plus understanding the science behind weather, and being able to model trends and use satellite imagery to settle claims after a disaster. Skills in research and data analytics are crucial components in this field.

What State Farm is doing to encourage STEM education

To ensure that all students can excel at rigorous, relevant STEM learning and become successful employees in the future, State Farm has been building community relationships, engaging students in technology and providing mentoring opportunities to create awareness and excitement about IT careers.

One example of their many efforts is a recent weather balloon launch by State Farm Enterprise Technology mentors to send “Jake from State Farm” (in doll form) nearly 100,000 feet into space from the company’s park in Bloomington, Illinois. Participating students learned about the science behind meteorology and the tools used to predict and understand weather patterns.

The company has also initiated several programs encouraging girls and women to pursue STEM fields. Although women comprise nearly half the U.S. workforce, they only represent 27% of STEM workers, and are significantly underrepresented in STEM majors. To bridge this gap, State Farm supports groups and programs including:

Employee Resource Group (ERG) — Women and Technology provides technology and leadership-level connections, personal development and exposure for ERG members, connecting them with internal resources, role models and opportunities to build skills and develop professionally.

Educational Milestone — Girls Who Code offers an event at the State Farm Park Center in Atlanta office location, plus virtual opportunities, for girls to participate in a seven-week coding camp. Over 100 girls participated each summer over the last six years.

State Farm Tech Astra is an innovative program giving female students opportunities to explore the vast possibilities of STEM. For over a decade, State Farm has empowered more than 2,000 fifth through eighth grade girls to experience coding, robotic and engineering challenges in a safe, fun setting. Hundreds of State Farm employees volunteer time to support this program, which provides collaborative, inclusive events led by women and tailored to provide hands-on experiences in interactive small groups. The program recently expanded to include fifth through twelfth grade girls.

STEM Program in Schools — State Farm advocacy engages the community to promote IT in grades K-12 with local school districts. The company also provides charitable funds to support numerous STEM programs for young students run by colleges and universities.

Supporting STEM education can help provide a better future for students seeking high-paying, satisfying careers, and for businesses needing this talent to meet the demands of ever-evolving technology.

Learn more about how State Farm is encouraging young students in STEM fields at TechAstra.StateFarm.

2023-11-12T23:01:00

(BPT) – The holiday season is synonymous with warmth, comfort and indulgence. This year, why not extend those feelings into the bathroom with luxurious gifts that elevate the everyday routines of your loved ones?

Gifting spa-worthy bathroom treasures will not only add a touch of opulence to your loved ones’ daily lives, but also provide a much-needed escape from the hustle and bustle of the holiday season. These gifts show you care and encourage wellness and a focus on self-care into the new year.

Feeling inspired? Here are some top trending ideas for unique, upscale gifts for the bathroom that any recipient will appreciate.

Shower scent systems

The Sprig Infusion System lets anyone transform their daily shower routine into a well-being ritual with specialized aromatherapy. This advanced device installs to an existing showerhead in minutes and then the recipient can choose a scent pod based on their mood and preference, like bergamot and lemongrass to recharge or chamomile and green tea to relax. These pods are mindfully created with clean ingredients that hydrate the skin and won’t leave surface residue on bathroom fixtures. It’s a unique gift that’s easy to use — simply pop these pods in the device and step inside the shower for a transformational showering experience.

Bath bombs and candles

Taking a bath is a time to relax, rejuvenate and everything in between. Rejuvenate the senses and elevate the bath by gifting elegant bath essentials that will make this holiday season a truly pampering experience. Sprig bath bombs are a must-have with 100% natural aromatherapy and self-care superstars like coconut oil, shea butter and kaolin clay. Pair bath bombs with candles in matching scents for an immersive aromatherapy experience that takes bath time to a whole new level.

Sumptuous towels and linen mists

When you visit the spa, one of the things you’ll notice is ample plush linens available in virtually every space. Fluffy and indulgent, a set of new luxury bathroom towels and other complementary linens make the ideal gift that will be used again and again. Enhance this gift with Sprig Body and Linen Mists that provide clean, natural and hypoallergenic botanical blends. Not only do these scents smell incredible, they are loaded with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Spray onto skin, clothing, linens, towels and more to delight the senses.

Customizable bidet seats

Get a luxurious, intimate clean every time you go to the bathroom when you add the Kohler C3^®-050 bidet toilet seat to your existing toilet. Whether a gift to yourself or a loved one, this helps you stay clean and comfortable, with customizable warm water temperature and water pressure. The slim, low-profile design fits most elongated toilets and the self-cleaning stainless steel wand uses UV light for automatic cleaning.

Heavenly robes and slippers

When thinking of presents that pamper for that special someone, a tried-and-true classic is a luxurious robe and comfortable slippers. Whether heading into the day with a shower or winding down with a sensual soak, a robe and slipper set is a lovely gift that helps create a spa-like experience at home. For a custom gift with an elevated feel, consider monograming the robe or getting items in the recipient’s favorite color.

From top-quality aromatherapy products to sumptuous bathroom accessories, these luxurious gifts are bound to make the recipients feel like they’re being treated to a five-star spa experience right in the comfort of their own home.

2023-11-12T23:01:00

(BPT) – This time of year, temptations are everywhere. From carb-laden office potlucks to family get-togethers where relatives beg you to sample their sugary desserts, sticking to your nutrition goals can be a tall order — but it is doable.

Colette Heimowitz, vice president of Nutrition and Education at Simply Good Foods Company, advises a sensible and manageable approach to the holidays.

“Holiday parties are meant to be enjoyed and a time to celebrate with friends, family and delicious food,” said Heimowitz. “There are ways you can make good choices and be prepared so you can avoid getting completely derailed from your wellness goals.”

Try some of her practical tips to help you stay on track this season.

1. Contribute low-carb options to the next potluck. Bring your own Atkins-friendly recipes to potlucks or family gatherings to keep your body fueled with foods aligned with your nutrition goals. For example, the Atkins Low Carb Pumpkin Mousse Trifle is sweet, festive, easy to prep ahead, and will soon be a family favorite!

2. Snack smart. Keep better-for-you snacks and treats close by, like the Atkins Endulge Crunchalicous Bars, which are sweet, crispy and packed with chocolatey flavor. With 1 gram of net carbs and 1 gram of sugar per serving, these are a fantastic addition to your holiday sweets rotation.

3. Eat ahead. Arriving at a holiday party feeling famished makes it easy to overindulge. Instead, eat a small meal in advance, such as a protein source and a salad with olive oil dressing. Or grab a filling snack like veggies and guacamole to stabilize your blood sugar level and appetite. When you get to the party, seek low-carb, balanced options combining protein, healthy fats and high-fiber, nutrient-rich veggies.

4. Keep hydrated. Thirst is often mistaken for hunger, so staying hydrated can help you avoid overeating. Find water boring? Add flavor with sliced lemons, limes or cucumbers.

“Research shows as you decrease your carb intake, your cravings for them will begin decreasing, so sticking to your health goals ahead of the holidays will help,” noted Heimowitz. “But be realistic. Enjoying a few bites of your favorite food is not the end of the world! You can always get back on track with your next meal.”

Find products and recipes for every occasion at Atkins.com.

2023-11-10T12:01:00

(BPT) – Are you looking to travel differently in 2024? If you want a unique vantage point for learning about different parts of the world, exploring the small towns, iconic cities and countries along a river is sure open your eyes, heart and mind.

Did you know you can make the river the foundation of your travel plans by exploring via small ship with other like-minded travelers? No one does river cruises better than Viking, the small ship experts. These adults-only ships provide all of what you want — comfortable accommodations and ample opportunity to experience some of the world’s most interesting and significant rivers. And there’s none of the unnecessary flair — like the flashy casinos and tired art auctions of traditional cruises.

If the idea of river exploration inspires your wanderlust, here are five of the best rivers around the world that are perfect for exploring by way of a river voyage.

1. Rhine River

From the Swiss Alps to the North Sea, the Rhine River flows through several European countries including Switzerland, France, Germany and the Netherlands. Raise a glass on Viking’s award-winning Longship while sailing the Rhine River and see how the historic river system unfolds to create a spellbinding display of storybook villages, Dutch windmills, German vineyards and splendid UNESCO sites. Enjoy Amsterdam’s charming canals and gabled houses, windmills of Kinderdijk, Cologne’s Gothic Cathedral, breathtaking views of the legendary Black Forest and much more.

2. Danube River

From awe-inspiring cliffside castles to charming river towns, you’ll enjoy a trip of a lifetime when you explore the Danube River via small ship. Coursing through Germany, Austria, Hungary and seven other countries all the way to the Black Sea, the Danube is a key part of Central Europe’s rich and dramatic history. Just a few highlights you can see during a river cruise while exploring the Danube include the lush vineyards of the Wachau Valley, the baroque splendor of Melk Abbey, Vienna’s elegant architecture, Budapest’s stunning Chain Bridge, the soaring cliffs of the scenic Iron Gate and Belgrade’s impressive Kalemegdan Fortress.

3. Douro River

Wine enthusiasts of all kinds will delight in small ship travel through the Douro River in Portugal that explores some of Europe’s oldest and most renowned wine regions and estates. Sip and savor divine food and beverage while enjoying the rich culture of this vibrant country on a Viking Longship, designed for elegance and comfort with all outside staterooms. From Lisbon’s stunning Manueline architecture and Vila Real’s extraordinary Mateus Palace to the hilltop fortress town of Castelo Rodrigo and the tiny village of Favaios, nestled among picturesque hills — you will fall in love with this incredible country and the river that has always helped sustain it.

4. Seine River

Bypass the basic and instead explore France in a unique way — via a river cruise on the Seine. Meander the river through medieval ruins, charming farms, elegant cities and much more. You’ll experience France’s culture and history in a way that will leave a lasting impression while in the comfort and style of an elegant river voyage. A few of the sights you’ll enjoy include the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame Cathedral, Claude Monet’s beautiful house and gardens at Giverny, Normandy’s historic beaches and Château de Malmaison, Napoleon’s final home.

5. Mississippi River

There’s a reason it’s known as the mighty Mississippi: Stretching for 2,350 miles north to south in the United States, this river has transformed a nation’s history and culture. A great option for those who want to travel closer to home, you can sail through America’s heartland on one of Viking’s newest river ships that features all outside staterooms, private verandas and spacious public areas. The French Quarter in New Orleans, Graceland in Tennessee, Civil War history in Vicksburg National Military Park, and The Gateway Arch in St. Louis are just a few of the places you’ll experience on a Mississippi River voyage.

When wanderlust strikes, are you ready to travel differently and explore the world’s most memorable waterways? To learn more about these legendary rivers and exploring them via small ship, visit Viking.com.

2023-11-10T09:01:00

(BPT) – If you regularly experience the symptoms of seasonal allergies, you know how miserable they can make you. The congestion, sneezing, runny nose and itchy eyes can really disrupt your daily routine. During the months when pollen counts are high for common allergens you are sensitive to, it’s a good idea to take some proactive steps to help reduce the presence of those allergens in your home, as well as your exposure to them.

Here are simple steps you can take that can make a big difference for your symptoms.

Stay updated on current pollen counts

Checking on the daily pollen counts in your area can help you make smart decisions around exposure for you and anyone else in your household who has allergies. On days when the counts are high, you may want to limit the time you spend outdoors, or wear an N95 mask if you do need to be outside for a while. This can help reduce your direct exposure to the pollen that’s floating in the air.

You’ll also want to make sure to keep all your windows closed on high pollen count days, and let the filter in your HVAC system (and any free-standing air purifiers you may use at home) get to work on keeping your home’s air as clean as possible. Regularly replacing filters is also a good idea — and even more frequently than manufacturers’ recommendations, if your allergies are severe.

Keep clothes and other items free from allergens

Did you know that you can help remove allergens from clothes and fabrics in your own home? With LG Styler^® Steam Closet with TrueSteam^® Technology and Exclusive Moving Hangers, you can keep all your clothing and any other items clean, refreshed and deodorized while also helping remove airborne allergens like pollen, pet dander and dust — without using any harsh chemicals.

The LG Styler Steam Closet is easy to install — all you need is a standard outlet — and has a slim design, so it’s easy to find a place to use it in your laundry room, bedroom or elsewhere in your home. TrueSteam Technology is a chemical-free steam-generating powerhouse that uses hot vaporized water to penetrate all kinds of fabrics. As the hot steam circulates, the hangers included will vibrate side to side to help shake out dust, allergens and odors.

Because of its effectiveness in helping remove airborne allergens, the LG Styler Steam Closet is certified by the Asthma & Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA). You can even use it for cleaning and removing pollen from hard-to-wash items including backpacks, stuffed toys, gloves, jackets and towels.

Even better, you can pair the LG Styler Steam Closet with Alexa or Google Assistant, or use the ThinQ App to download specialty care options, remotely check on remaining cycle time and more. Visit LG.com to learn more.

Reduce pollen, dander and dust on floors

It’s all too easy for allergens to settle on the floors throughout your home, so it’s best to keep them as clean as possible. If you can replace carpets with flooring that’s easier to keep clean, that is one recommended tactic. If not, use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter to keep carpets clean, at least once or twice a week. Consider shampooing your carpet every two to three months to keep it as clean as possible, or you could hire a professional carpet cleaning service.

For hard surfaces, regular vacuuming and mopping can help keep airborne allergens from accumulating. Make sure to wear an N95 mask while you’re vacuuming to help protect yourself from dust, dander or pollen that gets kicked up while you’re cleaning.

You don’t have to be at the mercy of allergens, even on days when the pollen count is high. Following these strategies should help you reduce your allergy symptoms this season — and throughout the year.

2023-11-10T09:01:00

(BPT) – It’s here — your yearly opportunity to make changes to your Medicare coverage. Medicare Annual Enrollment happens every year Oct. 15 through Dec. 7, during which you can review your current plan, compare your coverage options, and make any necessary updates. Any changes you make then go into effect on Jan. 1, 2024.

Whether you’re enrolling for the first time or not, it can be a lot of information to sift through. To help you stay organized and make sure you check every box, ClearMatch Medicare created the following handy checklist. Follow these steps to find the coverage that works for you.

1. Create a provider list.

Make a list of all your current medical providers, including your primary doctor as well as any specialists or services you use regularly. This should also include the clinics or hospitals you visit most. Listing this information will help you decide which Medicare plan is right for you.

2. List your prescriptions.

Do you take any prescription drugs? If so, write them down. Medicare plans change each year, and it’s possible that your current plan may stop covering your prescriptions. Have your medications top of mind before comparing plans for the coming year.

3. Plan ahead.

If possible, have a conversation with your doctor about what screenings, tests or medications you might need in the coming year. While you can’t see into the future, try to note any healthcare changes you expect over the next 12 months.

4. Review your plan’s Annual Notice of Change and Evidence of Coverage

If you have any coverage outside of Original Medicare (Parts A and B), your plan sends an Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) and Evidence of Coverage (EOC), which you should receive in September. If you don’t receive one, contact your plan. These documents provide details about upcoming changes to your coverage. Compare them to your current and projected medical needs to determine if it’s time to change plans.

5. Review your current Medicare and other insurance coverage.

Think about your existing plan. Is it meeting your needs? Are you OK with the cost? Reflect on what’s working and what’s not — then plan for any changes you need to make for next year.

And if you have other health insurance benefits besides Medicare, talk to your benefits administrator to determine how your Medicare enrollment impacts your additional health coverage.

6. Review Medicare Advantage options.

Many Medicare Advantage plans offer benefits not covered by Original Medicare, such as prescription drug coverage and routine dental and vision care. You may find that a Medicare Advantage plan saves you money thanks to this increased coverage. These plans also have a yearly out-of-pocket maximum, unlike Original Medicare.

7. Confirm your total cost.

The total cost of your Medicare plan may include monthly premiums, deductibles, co-pays and co-insurance. When comparing plans, dig a little deeper for an accurate picture of total costs so you’re prepared for the year and know what you can afford. Keep in mind:

• For Part D plans, you need to consider the monthly premium, co-pays and the drug formulary. Most insurers use tiered pricing for prescription drugs. If your prescriptions are on one of the upper tiers, your co-pay could be substantial.
• Most Medicare Advantage and Part D plans with extremely low premiums have higher co-pays, deductibles and out-of-pocket maximums.

Overwhelmed by all these steps? Don’t worry, free help is just a phone call away. ClearMatch Medicare is dedicated to making Medicare easier to understand so you can choose the plan that’s right for you. Their highly trained and licensed insurance agents are patient and helpful, and if they find you’re already in the right plan, they’ll tell you so.

Call 1-888-441-7382 (TTY:711) for a free Medicare review, Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-9 p.m., Saturday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. (ET) or visit ClearMatchMedicare.com, open 24-7.

2023-11-09T14:01:01

(BPT) – You’re curious about the world, love to learn and want to travel in a way that uniquely connects you to the people, culture and landscape of an area. Small ship exploration checks all these boxes, providing you a closer look at what makes a region special so you have experiences that you’ll never forget.

Viking’s voyages offer highly curated, upscale travel experiences for adults on nimble small ships that explore some of the most incredible areas of the world. There are no kids, casinos, art auctions or umbrella drinks — because the focus is on the travel experience and exploring the world, which leaves a lasting and meaningful impression.

Here are the top regions to consider for small ship voyages and what you can expect to experience:

Scandinavia

Scandinavia is Viking territory and small ship exploration is the perfect complement to the region’s rich maritime history. From colorful fishing villages and breathtaking fjords to historic cities that feature rich cultural traditions, there’s so much to appreciate. On a Scandinavian voyage with Viking you’ll learn about the Hanseatic past of Bergen and traditional glassblowing techniques in Bornholm. You’ll have opportunities to experience a Sami ceremony north of the Arctic Circle and sheep farming in a Faroese village. Of course, you’ll be in awe of Norway’s magnificent fjords and perhaps catch a dazzling display of the northern lights during special winter sailings. Above all else, you’ll learn something new every day and be amazed at the world around you.

Caribbean and Central America

The rich cultural diversity and tropical climate has attracted travelers to the Caribbean and Central America for hundreds of years. Today, you can gain an intimate understanding of these legendary regions when you opt for small ship travel. In ports from San Juan to Colón, Viking’s Caribbean and Central America voyages allow for ample access to enriching excursions on land and sea. Just a few of the sights travelers enjoy are the soaring pyramids and temples of Chichén Itzá, picturesque rainforests of Costa Rica, natural wonders inside Bridgetown’s Harrison’s Cave, the fascinating history at the Mayan ruins at Belize’s Altun Ha and St. Lucia’s famed pair of volcanic pylons, Gros and Petit Pitons.

Mediterranean

The empires of the Mediterranean left a remarkable historic legacy that continues to influence today. Do you want to learn more and explore the area, but prefer to do so more like a local than a tourist? The secret is to go during the quiet season. With fewer travelers, you’ll get easier access to landmarks and easygoing interactions with locals. A variety of quiet season Mediterranean itineraries are available from Viking, so whether you want to admire the turquoise splendor of the Greek Isles, explore Rome’s monumental Colosseum, take in Vatican City’s glorious St. Peter’s Basilica or enjoy the architectural brilliance of Antoni Gaudi in Barcelona, you have plenty of options.

Great Lakes

The largest freshwater ecosystem on earth, the Great Lakes of North America offer a wonderland of nature just waiting to be explored. From the comfort of a Viking small ship, you can explore the Great Lakes, which total over 750 miles across with 10,000 miles of coastline. As you have breakfast, take in the beautiful and diverse landscape, and keep your eyes out for birds in the Great Lakes, you may even catch a glimpse of eagles. Depart the ship and try your hand at new adventures, like kayaking in Georgian Bay — a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve — or get closer to shore with one of Viking’s expert guides during a Zodiac excursion. Discover the powerful beauty of Niagara Falls, learn about Canada’s small mining towns, view the world-class collection of the Milwaukee Art Museum and so much more.

Grand Journeys

Feeling inspired? If you’re not sure which small ship journey to choose, you’ll be excited to learn you don’t have to settle for just one itinerary. Viking Grand Journeys combine two or more itineraries into one seamless trip through countries with rich histories, fascinating cultures and striking natural beauty. These longer, epic journeys allow you to explore the world in comfort and style, while learning from world-class guest lecturers, savoring regional cuisine and experiencing some of the most iconic cultural performing art forms around the globe.

To learn more about Viking and the many wonderful options for small ship travel, visit Viking.com.