Category: Brandpoint Lifestyle

2025-11-17T09:01:01

(BPT) – The holiday season is full of activity, excitement — and impatience! One way for kids and families to savor each moment and actually enjoy the anticipation is by counting down the days to Christmas, with the help of special traditions like advent calendars. This year, you can establish new traditions with your kids or grandkids by celebrating the season through family-friendly countdown activities that provide focus and fun, keeping everyone happily engaged and excited about all the coming festivities.

The celebration experts at American Greetings offer these tips for helping your family make the most of holiday anticipation together.

Create a holiday music playlist

Include the whole family in creating a shared family playlist to get everyone in a holiday mood. Ask a family member to add one of their favorite Christmas carols or holiday-themed pop songs each day, and by the end of the month, you’ll have a whole album put together collaboratively by the family. Have fun blending nostalgic songs with modern classics. You’ll end up with the perfect playlist that can serve as the background for your holiday parties, or that you can sing along with as a family.

Need a way to send holiday cheer to loved ones far away? You could record the family singing together and send it to relatives as a holiday greeting!

Put a modern twist on holiday tradition with the new Peanuts^® Digital Advent Calendar 2025

You loved Peanuts as a kid, and now you can share 25 days of new surprises inspired by the world of Peanuts. Create a whole new family tradition that can span miles and generations with this interactive digital advent calendar celebrating the 75th anniversary of the adored Peanuts^® comics. American Greetings partnered with the iconic brand to provide fans of all ages with playful daily immersive experiences featuring Charlie Brown, Snoopy and the whole Peanuts gang.

The Peanuts Digital Advent Calendar 2025 is a fun, interactive and affordable way to make holiday memories for the entire family. The calendar honors the timeless charm of Charles M. Schulz’s Peanuts while adapting his beloved characters and their world for the digital age. Unlike passive advent calendars, this digital calendar is jam-packed with hours of themed fun, including interactive games, puzzles, Peanuts trivia, digital holiday greeting cards and creative activities including:

• Christmas tree decorator
• Build a snowman
• Stocking decorator
• Music sequencer
• Coloring comics
• Dress up Snoopy

— and much more, totaling over 30 activities your kids can enjoy. Best of all, fans who order the calendar before Dec. 1 will be granted early access to exclusive Homebase holiday activities in the days leading up to the official Christmas countdown.

Offering so much more than a traditional advent calendar, this option is perfect for today’s digitally savvy kids. They can even open each day’s event together with grandparents and family members near and far creating a whole new holiday tradition. Visit the AmericanGreetings.com website to get started today!

Make a card a day

Get everyone feeling crafty by opening up an art station with art supplies and card stock so kids can create a holiday card for someone new each day, including family, friends, your child’s teacher and neighbors.

Want to send holiday greetings to someone far away? Customize this Bing Crosby Christmas SmashUp to create a fun and festive greeting that takes a nostalgic trip back in time to hear the holiday classic. Or use any one of the other holiday Christmas ecards that can be personalized and sent virtually to brighten someone’s spirits.

Neighborhood night walk or scavenger hunt

Depending on the weather, go for a walk or drive together to discover neighborhood lights and decorations. You can create a scavenger hunt where kids get points for locating Rudolph, Santa or snowmen — along with bonus points for spotting unique, funny or memorable decorations.

Using these ideas, you’ll be spreading holiday joy and fun through the entire month, creating your own unique holiday traditions and memories that will last well beyond the season.

2025-11-17T10:01:00

(BPT) – As we age, there comes a point when many enter what’s known as the sandwich generation, which is when adults who are caring for their own family also step into the role of supporting their parents. This support manifests in a variety of ways, including caregiving, financial guidance, housing, transportation and even technical support. Being “sandwiched” can be challenging, but there are many ways to navigate this phase. One of the most important things to set them up for success is to help them budget.

“The role reversal experienced by children helping their parents navigate later life can be overwhelming,” said Jason Mugg, senior vice president of Business Solutions & Analysis for AARP Services. “One way an AARP membership aims to simplify this process is by making discounts and savings accessible on essential items to support caregivers and their loved ones.”

From deals on everyday appliances and needs, to discounts on security and phone lines, AARP member benefits can help you set your parents up for success both financially and personally.

Finding steals, avoiding move-in ordeals

Are you helping your parents move into a new home? New homes mean new appliances, and that shouldn’t break the bank. An AARP membership can help your parents save 10% or more on the full line of GE Appliances, including GE^®, Profile™, Café™, Monogram^®, Haier and Hotpoint^® major appliances. They also receive in-home delivery, installation and haul-away services.

If you’re looking to move those appliances yourself, AARP members save 20% on local or one-way truck rentals from Sunday through Thursday and 10% on Friday and Saturday, and receive a $10-per-day Physical Damage Waiver with Budget Truck Rentals.

Secure their safety

Ensuring your parents are set up with security is important for their continued comfort. If they’re looking to take a road trip or are making an everyday commute, an AARP membership can help them save on 24/7 roadside assistance with Allstate Roadside. Members save up to 20% on annual membership fees for Allstate Roadside plans, including Roadside Advantage, Roadside Assist and Roadside Elite, and have access to assistance for towing, jump-starts, tire changes, lockout assistance, fuel delivery and more.

Feeling safe at home is always important, and AARP members receive a 5% monthly discount* on 24/7 ADT professional monitoring services. This offer can also be combined with select other promotions on ADT smart home products. *Discount applies to monthly monitoring rate. Req. system purchase & pro monitoring plan w/ 1 mo. min. w/DIY or 36 mo. w/pro install (early cancel fees). Not available for online orders. AARP members only. Terms & pricing here.

And, whether it is for safety or companionship, it is a good idea for your parents to have a cell phone. AARP members save 5% on monthly service and 30% off select accessories with Consumer Cellular. Talk, text and data plans start at $20 per month per line. No long-term contract is required and they receive an extended 45-day risk-free guarantee.

The sound (and sight) of savings

Whether you’re driving them to and from medical appointments or frequently repeating what is said, watching parents grow older can be difficult, and even make you feel like roles are slowly reversing. However, helping them manage their health now isn’t just an act of love; it’s an important step that can help them thrive in their later years. Taking advantage of AARP member benefits can help make it even easier.

As hearing loss tends to happen gradually, you can help your parents explore hearing care options to check their hearing and save. AARP members can save up to 50% on prescription hearing aids and up to $200 off over-the-counter hearing aids with AARP^® Hearing Solutions™ provided by UnitedHealthcare^® Hearing. Members also receive a free hearing exam and consultation, with personalized support through a large nationwide network of hearing providers. No insurance is needed to use the program.

To help make sure your parents are still seeing clearly, work with them to get their vision checked annually. If they do need new glasses or lenses, AARP members can receive exclusive savings through Visionworks. Discounts include $200 off a complete pair of glasses when you buy single vision lenses or $250 off with multifocal lenses.

While there is no easy solution to juggling life as part of the sandwich generation, using resources like AARP member benefits can help make setting your parents up for success just a bit easier.

To learn more about the benefits and discounts for AARP members, please visit aarp.org/save.

AARP and its affiliates are not insurers, agents, brokers or producers. AARP member benefits are provided by third parties, not by AARP or its affiliates. Providers pay a royalty fee to AARP for the use of its intellectual property. These fees are used for the general purposes of AARP. Some provider offers are subject to change and may have restrictions. Please contact the provider directly for details.

2025-11-17T08:01:00

(BPT) – Millions of Americans will board planes and travel long distances this holiday season, many of them living with known heart disease, many others quietly carrying dangerous plaque they don’t even know is there. And the risk most people are watching, cholesterol, is not actually the one most likely to trigger the life-changing event.

In most families, there is at least one person this applies to.

The most important and least discussed driver of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) progression is inflammation inside the artery wall, the cellular fire that makes plaque more unstable and more likely to rupture. That inflammatory risk shows up during travel.

Altitude changes, cabin pressure changes, noise and air pollution exposure, long stasis in seats, dehydration, sleep disruption: each of these are inflammatory stressors. When layered on an artery wall already primed by inflammation, the likelihood of a high-consequence cardiovascular event can rise.

“When planning holiday travel, particularly for people living with heart disease including ASCVD, the most crucial first step is to consult with your cardiologist to assess your individual risks,” said Jimmy Kerrigan, M.D., FSCAI, FACC, assistant professor of Medicine at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center and interventional cardiologist at Saint Thomas Heart at Ascension Saint Thomas West in Nashville, Tennessee. “Once evaluated and with proper medication management — including packing your prescriptions and ensuring that you have adequate refills available — taking simple steps like frequent movement and hydration are key. Proactive planning is what turns potential risk into a special and safe journey.”

Why inflammation matters

ASCVD develops when plaque builds and hardens arteries. The dangerous part is not the cholesterol itself. It is the inflammation inside the artery wall that makes plaque more unstable and more likely to rupture.

Environmental studies have shown that combined exposure to air pollution and transportation noise, two common realities of major holiday travel hubs, can raise arterial inflammation and increase cardiac event risk.

Air travel adds another layer: cabin oxygen is lower than sea level. A heart already pushing blood through narrowed arteries must work harder. Long periods of sitting during flights, long drives or train rides also raise the risk of deep vein thrombosis. Inflammation compounds that.

Inflammation can be measured and managed with your clinician

Three simple biomarkers can identify hidden vascular risk: LDL cholesterol, Lipoprotein(a) and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP; an inflammation biomarker).

However, managing and reducing inflammation through an anti-inflammatory medication such as low-dose colchicine, 0.5 mg, can go a long way toward managing ASCVD and slowing the progression of cardiovascular disease. The once-daily oral tablet can be used in combination with a patient’s current lipid-lowering medication and has been shown in clinical studies to reduce the risk of cardiac events by 31%.

Know your risk before you travel

A simple pre-holiday reality check can alter the trajectory of this season:

• Find out your inflammation level: ask your clinician about hs-CRP
• If you already have diagnosed ASCVD: talk to your clinician about your risk and your plan before you travel
• If you don’t have ASCVD but you have a parent, sibling, partner or close friend who does: ask them if they know their inflammation number

For more information about inflammation and ASCVD risk, visit CVDInflammation.com.

Travel smart with ASCVD

With proper planning and medical clearance, many people with ASCVD can travel safely and comfortably. Consider the following:

• Consult your doctor: Before booking, speak with your healthcare provider to assess your fitness for travel and discuss your itinerary. You may need a note detailing your condition, medications and any implanted devices.
• Plan and pack medications carefully: Carry all medications, including extras for potential delays, in clearly labeled containers in your carry-on luggage.
• Stay hydrated and move frequently: Drink plenty of water and avoid excessive alcohol or caffeine. During long journeys, get up and walk around at least once an hour to reduce the risk of blood clots. For car travel, plan frequent stops.
• Consider compression socks: Your doctor may recommend compression stockings, especially for long-haul flights, to improve circulation.
• Research your destination: Look into medical facilities at your destination and check if your health insurance provides adequate coverage. Consider travel medical insurance that covers pre-existing conditions.
• Have a medical emergency plan: Carry a list of your medications and contact information for your doctor.

While flying with heart disease carries risks, they can often be managed with planning and precautions. Be sure to consult with your doctor before you travel, know your risk of a serious cardiovascular event such as a heart attack or stroke and be aware of warning signs — so this holiday can be both joyful and safe.

If you’re a son or daughter reading this…

If you have a parent or grandparent with heart disease, send them this article. A simple conversation about inflammation could change their risk. One text could help protect someone you love.

Indication:

Low-dose colchicine, 0.5 mg is indicated to reduce the risk of myocardial infarction (heart attack), stroke, coronary revascularization, and cardiovascular death in adult patients with established atherosclerotic disease or with multiple risk factors for cardiovascular disease.

LODOCO-PM-DP-110725-01-01

2025-11-17T07:01:00

(BPT) – November ushers in the festive holiday season and a renewed focus on the home, often the center of long-standing traditions and meaningful celebrations with family and friends. For many, being home for the holidays is a foregone conclusion, but for others — particularly people with disabilities and older adults — being at home may seem out of reach. With the gift of self-direction, however, they can be where the heart is for the holidays and all year long.

No place like home

Self-direction is a model of care for people who need the type of long-term services and supports (LTSS) that would qualify them for nursing home or other institutional care paid for with Medicaid dollars. This traditional type of care can be costly and isolating, and it tends to take control away from the person receiving care.

On the other hand, self-direction follows a person-centered philosophy. “In person-centered planning, the person needing care is in the driver’s seat. They choose who provides their support as well as when and where it’s delivered,” explains Pearl Barnett, chief operating officer of GT Independence, a financial management service (FMS) that helps people with the administrative tasks that come with self-direction. “Self-direction allows people to stay in their homes and communities, so they can keep making memories and maintain relationships that add joy to their lives.”

Rather than have Medicaid cover expensive institutional care, people participating in self-direction receive an authorized budget, seeded with Medicaid dollars, to manage and spend on the services and supports they need. Barnett adds, “For people who access it, self-direction is a priceless gift that recognizes their autonomy and enables them to remain in familiar surroundings, supported by caregivers they know and trust.”

Depending on the program, participants may be able to hire close relatives to provide support. Family members often step in, unpaid, to tend to personal care, and they are usually well acquainted with the individual’s needs and preferences. By paying family members in this role, self-direction programs are valuing their important work while also alleviating demand on a stretched caregiving workforce throughout the country, and especially in rural areas.

Happy in a million ways

With self-direction, people can and do thrive with the right supports in their homes and communities. Studies suggest that participants experience greater satisfaction with services and a better quality of life than those in traditional institutions.

People who self-direct can remain engaged in their communities, whether it’s viewing light displays and attending performances during the holidays or going to school, work, community groups or volunteer gigs throughout the year. Such activity builds connections and relationships that often go missing in traditional care models and that enrich both the people receiving services and people in their orbit.

“Self-direction will allow the person the ability to blossom,” says one participant, a disability advocate with a brain injury who is also a published author helping others “to see that things are not as stark as they may seem.”

Can’t beat home sweet home

Thousands of people from coast to coast are eligible for LTSS, often through Medicaid or other state-funded programs. If eligible for self-direction, they may discover that a holiday wish to stay in their home and community can be granted.

The self-direction journey often starts by reaching out to a state’s Medicaid agency to learn about available programs in an area. Other resources for information include state departments that serve older adults and people with disabilities.

Barnett notes that while her FMS isn’t in every state yet, “Our customer support staff is ready to point people to resources throughout the country. GT Independence serves programs in 18 states and the District of Columbia, and our reach is constantly growing. Our mission is to help people live a life of their choosing, so they can be home for the holidays and every day.”

More information about self-direction is available at gtindependence.com or by calling 1-877-659-4500.

2025-11-14T21:21:00

(BPT) – By Ha Sang-chul, president of LG Indonesia

As we celebrate LG’s 35-year journey in Indonesia, I am filled with both gratitude and optimism for what lies ahead. Our presence in this vibrant nation has been more than a business story — it has been a partnership built on shared growth, innovation and resilience.

Aligning With Indonesia’s Industrial Vision for Sustainable Growth

Indonesia’s manufacturing sector continues to be a vital driver of national progress, contributing between 17% and 20% of the country’s GDP and employing more than 20% of the workforce. The Industrial Services Roadmap 2025–2045 sets out a bold vision to expand industry, create future-ready jobs and integrate technology with sustainability — an ambition that closely aligns with LG’s own values and long-term direction.

Vice Minister of Industry Mr. Faisol Riza highlighted that in 2024, Indonesia’s Manufacturing Value Added (MVA) reached USD 265.07 billion (Rp 4,349 trillion), ranking 13th globally and first in Southeast Asia. This strong performance reflects the growing competitiveness of Indonesia’s industrial base and its crucial role in ensuring economic resilience.

Further underscoring this momentum, the Industrial Confidence Index (IKI) for September 2025 stood at 53.02, signaling continued expansion across 21 of 23 manufacturing subsectors, which together account for nearly 98% of non-oil and gas manufacturing GDP. Optimism about the coming months remains high, driven by confidence in policy direction, innovation and industrial strength.

Over Three Decades of Milestones: Building a Fully Integrated Operation

At LG, we are proud to have grown alongside Indonesia, becoming a trusted partner in its industrial and technological transformation. Over the past three and a half decades, we have invested in local capabilities, championed innovation and embedded sustainability into every aspect of our operations — all to enhance lives and strengthen industries.

Our manufacturing facilities in Tangerang and Bekasi produce a wide range of products, from refrigerators and washing machines to monitors, commercial displays and televisions — serving both domestic and regional markets. Last month, we expanded our production capabilities through a strategic partnership in air conditioner manufacturing, operated by a partner company. This initiative reflects our ongoing commitment to advancing Indonesia’s industrial ecosystem.

With a network of over 190 service centers across the archipelago and strong collaborations with local distributors and partners, we ensure that LG products and services reach customers in every region.

Today, our locally self-sufficient operation — spanning R&D, manufacturing, marketing and customer care — empowers more than 4,000 local talents and supports national priorities such as Making Indonesia 4.0 and the Industrial Services Roadmap. Together, we are driving continuous innovation, operational excellence and customer satisfaction.

Beyond Business: Empowering Communities and Driving Inclusive Growth

Our commitment to Indonesia goes well beyond business. Through our CSR platform, LG Loves Indonesia, we focus on sustainability, education and community well-being to create meaningful and lasting impact.

Under LG Loves Green, we promote energy-efficient living and environmental responsibility — planting 32,000 trees and supporting recycling initiatives for fabric, food waste and e-waste to raise public and youth awareness.

LG Loves Children enhances early childhood literacy in partnership with the Ministry of Education and Culture, publishing and distributing two series of LG Children’s Books nationwide. We also established three libraries in low-literacy regions, each offering more than 350 curated titles to inspire learning.

Through LG Loves School, we help vocational students build practical skills for future careers by upgrading school labs with LG products and training tools.

Meanwhile, LG Loves and Cares supports local communities through initiatives like Lebaran Sehat, which provides food packages during festive seasons, as well as product donations that improve daily living standards.

Each of these initiatives reflects our belief that true progress must be inclusive — empowering individuals and uplifting communities across Indonesia.

Looking Ahead: A Shared Future of Sustainable Growth

As we look toward the future, LG’s dedication to Indonesia remains steadfast. We deeply value the trust and partnership we have built with the government, industry peers and the Indonesian people. Our approach — anchored in local manufacturing excellence, technology transfer and environmental stewardship — demonstrates our long-term commitment to inclusive and sustainable growth.

Together, under the shared spirit of Life’s Good, we will continue to create a better, more sustainable tomorrow for all.

2025-11-14T05:45:00

(BPT) – Sweet, flavored coffee drinks — both hot and cold brew — are surging in popularity, driven by younger generations who love café-style customization. Surveys show that more than half of U.S. coffee drinkers add sugar or flavored syrups to their coffee, with caramel, vanilla, chocolate, peppermint and pumpkin spice among the most popular. Now, select models of JURA’s fully automatic coffee machines feature an exclusive Sweet Foam function, making it easy to prepare these coffeehouse flavors at home.

JURA’s Sweet Foam Function

Create indulgent specialties with the Sweet Foam Function, available on the Z10, J8 twin and S8 machines. Simply fill the attachment with flavored coffee syrup, connect it to the frother, and the system evenly and gently infuses the flavor throughout the milk foam for a silky-smooth, sweet finish. From amaretto and hazelnut to vanilla, gingerbread or even lavender, users can personalize the intensity of sweetness and flavor for endless creative possibilities.

Hot and cold brew creations with the Z10

For those who crave both hot and cold brew specialties, the Z10 is the ultimate all-in-one experience. With a menu of 40 beverages, it crafts everything from rich espressos to refreshing cold brew lattes. JURA’s 3D Brewing Technology optimizes hot drinks, while the exclusive Cold Extraction Process creates smooth, low-acid cold brew specialties. With the Sweet Foam Function, users can enjoy a Cold Sweet Salted Caramel or a Sweet Honey Latte at the touch of a button.

J8 twin: Double the beans, double the flavor

The J8 twin features two high-performance P.A.G.3+ conical grinders and dual bean hoppers, ideal for blending two single-origin beans for a custom flavor profile, or enjoying a bold espresso in the morning and a sweet decaf latte at night. The Sweet Foam Function adds perfectly flavored milk foam, allowing users to create hot specialties like a Sweet Amaretto Macchiato or a Sweet Cinnamon Cortado.

S8: Sleek and compact

Elegant, compact and easy to use, the S8 prepares 27 premium hot coffee specialties with easy-to-use swipe controls. The P.A.G. 2 Grinder and 3D brewing unit unlocks maximum flavor and aroma. Use the Sweet Foam Function to create a holiday-inspired Peppermint Mocha or a Gingerbread Latte.

With JURA’s innovative Sweet Foam Function users can create delicious coffee specialties with just the right amount of sweetness and the perfect milk foam texture at home. For more information, visit jura.com.

2025-11-13T12:01:00

(BPT) – As holiday travel planning kicks into high gear, Marriott Bonvoy is inspiring guests to pack their bags and embrace the magic of the season at one of their standout destinations throughout the U.S. and Canada. From festive flavors and charming family-friendly experiences to over-the-top décor and extravagant New Year’s Eve celebrations, these properties are pulling out all the stops to capture the spirit of the season — and turn every stay into an extraordinary occasion.

Holiday decor: Twinkling lights and delights

One of the joys of the holiday season is the glow of twinkling lights, dazzling gingerbread displays, and the magical charm of festive decor. Even when you’re away from home, you can still bask in the season’s sparkle with stays that deck the halls in festive style.

If you’re dreaming of a warm weather escape, check out the Marriott Marquis Houston and experience the Texas Winter Lights. Encircling the iconic Texas-shaped lazy river, over 100,000 lights shimmer alongside a 360-degree photo spot and virtual Santa sleigh ride. Indulge in Western-style favorites like Totchos or a Brisket Sandwich or try Duck Bahn Mi as a nod to Houston’s dynamic culture. Don’t miss festive cocktails, including a secret off-the-menu drink or local Texas brews as you explore the magic of the lights.

At The St. Regis Chicago, step into a glittering winter wonderland with the hotel’s St. Regis Holiday Atelier — a dazzling pop-up boutique nestled within a transformed lobby that exudes festive elegance. Adorned with opulent holiday décor, an exquisite life-size advent calendar, and photo op moments, this immersive and shoppable experience invites guests to explore a curated selection of exclusive gifts and bespoke treasures — from artisanal chocolates by Vosges Haut-Chocolat with on-site chocolatier gifting guidance, to stylish branded pieces from Tom Adam and cozy beanies from Love Your Melon.

Holiday magic for the whole family

A holiday trip is the perfect opportunity to create memories your family will cherish forever. When selecting a hotel, look for experiences that bring holiday magic to life for the whole family.

Celebrate in style at Sheraton Centre Toronto with a magical overnight stay in Santa’s Suite, a cozy, family-friendly retreat filled with festive decor, including a sparkling Christmas tree, holiday bedding and stockings hung with care.

Beginning December 14, discover the Festive Season of Wonder at The Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch. Enjoy curated seasonal experiences including family game nights, snowshoe adventures, reindeer and sled dog encounters, daily fireside s’mores, and Santa sightings, all in the heart of the Colorado Rockies.

Savor the season with holiday bites and drinks

It wouldn’t be the holiday season without seasonal dishes and festive sips. These hotels are inviting guests to savor the flavors of the season with an array of festive culinary events.

At the Marriott Bethesda Downtown, the Hip Flask rooftop winter igloo experience offers an elevated winter escape for those seeking intimacy and indulgence from high above. Available exclusively at night, the experience features two transparent geodesic domes and a cocktail menu crafted to complement the wintry atmosphere including the spirit-forward Erick Egg Nog and the light and refreshing Lil Gin Gin That Could.

For a taste of European holiday cuisine, escape to The Ritz-Carlton, Toronto. Discover an enchanting pop-up inspired by Europe’s beloved holiday markets. Guests can cozy up under the radiant lights with a cup of hot chocolate or mulled wine and savor festive dishes such as Duck Confit Tourtiere and Crepes Suzette. Each dish is crafted to capture the season’s warmth and nostalgia, creating a true celebration of taste, tradition, and togetherness. Guests can also shop for an array of artisanal gifts, perfect for holiday gifting.

Countdown to 2026: Exclusive New Year’s celebrations

Welcome 2026 with an unforgettable stay that rings in the New Year in style at these Marriott Bonvoy properties.

Countdown to midnight at Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa, Indian Wells, and book the NYEsmeralda Package to enjoy a sparkling toast, festive party favors and a late check out. Join the resort’s annual New Year’s Eve party at the popular gathering spot, The Place!, where you can dance the night away and indulge in delicious culinary bites.

If it’s been your dream to celebrate the new year in Times Square, make it a reality at The Times Square EDITION. The two-night stay Garden Party Room Package includes a guest room and two tickets to the Garden Party, featuring an open bar, sweet and savory bites, and exclusive access to the live ball drop in the iconic Times Square.

Make this holiday season one to remember

Celebrate the holidays wherever your travels take you this season and make it one to remember!

When planning your next getaway, book a stay at one of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of over 6,700 properties in the U.S. & Canada across more than 30 extraordinary hotel brands. Whether you’re planning a luxury trip or an extended stay, there’s a perfect fit for every traveler.

2025-11-13T11:01:00

(BPT) – Did you know 73% of pet owners believe veterinary technicians only perform basic tasks at the clinic?¹ In reality, veterinary technicians are vital members of the pet care team and play an essential role in supporting your pet’s health and well-being. They work closely with veterinarians, veterinary assistants and others — not only in animal hospitals and clinics, but also at zoos, universities, large-animal facilities and nonprofit organizations.

Credentialed veterinary technicians are highly trained professionals whose responsibilities extend far beyond what many people realize. Their expertise includes collecting and analyzing laboratory samples, conducting blood draws, performing diagnostic imaging such as radiographs, leading nutritional consultations, assisting veterinarians during surgeries, maintaining equipment and ensuring accurate patient medical records. Equally important, they educate clients, advocate for patients and strengthen the human–animal bond through compassionate, science-based care.

As a pet owner, you naturally want the best for your animal. With the overwhelming amount of information online, it can be difficult to know what is accurate. This is where your veterinary technician becomes an invaluable resource. These professionals are ready and equipped to answer your questions, offer guidance and empower you to make well-informed decisions about your pet’s health and care.

By recognizing the important role veterinary technicians play in your pet’s care, you can build stronger relationships with them and feel confident turning to them for answers and advice. In celebration of their dedication, Royal Canin is highlighting six important questions you should ask your veterinary technician at your next visit to help keep your pets healthy:

• What food or diet is best for my pet’s life stage, size and specific conditions?
• Is my pet maintaining a healthy weight?
• How much exercise does my pet need?
• What can I do to help with my pet’s itching?
• What grooming routines should I follow at home?
• Are there any potential health risks or early warning signs I should watch for based on my pet’s age, breed or lifestyle?

“Many pet owners don’t realize how much veterinary technicians contribute to their pet’s care,” said Brianne Morrow, Licensed Veterinary Technician, Veterinary Technician Specialist in Nutrition and Senior Scientific Communications Technician, Royal Canin North America. “We’re trained professionals who provide hands-on medical support, comfort nervous pets and help owners understand complex medical information. Knowing what to ask your veterinary technician is a great way to get personalized guidance on nutrition and overall pet care to keep pets healthy at every stage of life.”

To further support your pet’s health and celebrate the essential work of veterinary technicians, visit Royal Canin’s Instagram for more insights from veterinary technicians and other pet experts to help ensure you are providing the right care based on your pet’s specific needs.

1 North American Veterinary Community’s 2022 Survey

2025-11-13T02:01:00

(BPT) – Companies in most industries need to collect and use data. Especially for enterprises with large volumes of information to manage — with much of it being highly sensitive — the magnitude of managing all that data safely and effectively can seem overwhelming. Information management is especially crucial for organizations in heavily regulated industries like Banking, Financial Services and Insurance (BFSI), health care, legal, government and public sector agencies, among others.

Huge repositories of data from legacy systems and separate information streams that have accumulated over the years result in storage of unstructured data and dark data: large collections of disorganized or unused information that could be redundant or irrelevant, leading to potential risk or compliance issues.

But that untapped data store may also unlock vital insights for any organization, if it could be effectively and efficiently processed, organized and analyzed.

“How can you turn passive assets like unstructured and dark data into active intelligence that could benefit your company?” asked Narasimha Goli, chief product and technology officer, Iron Mountain. “Many organizations typically have vast amounts of data — hundreds of thousands of documents stored across various systems. These files are not just static records; they contain highly valuable hidden insights. You just need the right mechanism to sift through the noise and locate the intelligence within them.”

Enter agentic AI

With agentic AI, the next evolution in automation is here and enterprises are rapidly adopting this new technology. Agentic AI uses AI-powered, autonomous agents that can think, learn and make dynamic, context-based decisions to achieve specific goals.

Global leader in information management services Iron Mountain has launched the latest version of its InSight^® Digital Experience Platform (DXP), which uses agentic AI to streamline manual document and data processes and unlock actionable insights from unstructured data, all while governing information intelligently and compliantly in a secure, AI-powered data platform, transforming that data into intelligence to ignite productivity.

Here are the results you can achieve for your enterprise from InSight DXP:

• Remove the ROT: Streamline data storage and organization by getting rid of the Redundant, Obsolete and Trivial (ROT) content. Improve relevance by de-duplicating records and clearing the clutter.
• Improve workflows: The latest InSight DXP platform makes it easier to intelligently structure formerly unstructured data and build AI-ready workflows. Agentic workflows can autonomously navigate complex, multi-step, document-intensive processes, allowing AI agents to uncover insights and patterns that are virtually impossible to find through manual review.
• Increase searchability: An AI searchable database streamlines work efficiency. InSight DXP provides a powerful, unified search layer across all your physical and digital assets. This is more than just searching; it uses Knowledge Graphs to understand the relationships between documents and data, enabling the system to answer complex, multi-document questions and deliver immediate, comprehensive insight, supporting faster, more informed decision-making.
• Enhance compliance: With 23% of BFSI companies citing regulatory and compliance hurdles as a major roadblock to digital transformation, InSight DXP integrates with Iron Mountain’s Policy Center to automatically apply records retention schedules and legal hold rules. The platform can unify and govern digital and physical information, enabling agents to operate on consistent, compliant data across different repositories, formats and jurisdictions.
• Protect sensitive information: New personally identifiable information (PII) redaction capabilities further reduce manual effort and minimize compliance risk by automatically detecting and obscuring sensitive data like individual names, account information, Social Security numbers and more.

Humans stay in the loop

Iron Mountain’s platform keeps humans and AI agents working together, with humans firmly in command to define decision rights and escalation paths and provide oversight. The system affirms responsible AI use with tactics such as preserving data lineage and audit trails.

Information guides future action

Responsibly and intelligently storing and managing all of its information in the digital age is key to an enterprise’s ability to thrive and grow into the future.

“The increasing struggle to store, organize and analyze vast volumes of data can slow down processes and make decisions more difficult for any business,” said Goli. “Using the power of AI to manage information effectively on a single, secure platform can help turn formerly unusable or inaccessible data into an intelligent asset to uncover valuable new insights.”

Learn how agentic AI can streamline your information management processes at IronMountain.com.

2025-11-12T10:01:00

(BPT) – For anyone with asthma, keeping symptoms under control can sometimes feel like a constant struggle. Between seasonal weather changes and allergies, indoor and outdoor pollutants, and warding off colds and the flu, it may seem that your asthma medications just aren’t doing enough.

Because asthma is a chronic condition that responds to your overall health and the environment, it’s important to be proactive in managing the condition. If symptoms keep coming back even while you’re using medications, check in with your doctor and adjust your treatment plan.

To help people with asthma gain better control, medical experts with Allergy & Asthma Network recommend a whole-body approach. By boosting your wellness through specific lifestyle changes, you can improve how you feel every day — and keep your asthma symptoms more manageable.

Here are tips and resources to help improve your well-being with asthma.

Use exercise to reduce airway inflammation

You’ve probably heard that exercise is good for your overall health, but it can also play an important role in managing your asthma. Exercise can improve lung function, reduce airway inflammation and strengthen your immune system, which can reduce your risk of respiratory infections. Stronger muscles also improve blood flow to the lungs, helping you breathe more easily.

Since exercise can be an asthma trigger, check with your doctor before starting an exercise program. Begin with low-impact activities like brief walks or bike rides. You can also try strength training using light weights or resistance bands.

Eat healthy, anti-inflammatory foods

Nutrition can be another valuable tool for managing asthma. For some people, eating anti-inflammatory foods can help, like fresh fruits, veggies and lean meats. It can also help if you limit intake of carbohydrates (think bread and pasta) and alcohol. Talk to your doctor or a nutritionist for advice on managing your weight and eating a healthier diet.

Find and remove potential asthma triggers

It’s hard to avoid asthma triggers everywhere. But you can start by reducing them at home. Identifying your specific asthma triggers will help you decide what to tackle first.

Get mold cleaned out right away and use a dehumidifier to prevent mold growth. Keep windows and doors closed to keep pollen outside and use portable or whole-home air purifiers. Frequently washing bedding in hot water, keeping pets out of bedrooms, and eliminating carpet and rugs can reduce exposure to dust mites and pet dander.

Ask your healthcare provider about adjusting your medications on days when air quality is worse.

Get quality sleep

Not getting enough sleep can affect your immune system. This plays a huge role in lung health. It’s important to develop good sleep habits. Keep your bedroom dark, quiet and free of potential triggers like dust mites (washing bedding regularly can help). Avoid alcohol or caffeine close to bedtime, and take a break from digital devices an hour or two before you go to bed. It also helps to keep the same sleeping and waking schedule every day, even on weekends.

Reduce stress

As you may already know, stress can impact any medical condition, including lung diseases like asthma. To help reduce stress in your life, consider activities that relax you, like meditation, yoga, walking outdoors or reading. If you’re feeling a lot of anxiety or depression, consider seeking counseling.

Stick to your treatment plan

To help keep your asthma under control, it’s key to continue taking your medications as prescribed, including albuterol inhalers for quick relief and your daily controller medications (usually inhaled corticosteroids).

If your asthma is not well controlled, ask about advanced medications called biologics. These are for people with moderate to severe asthma or eosinophilic asthma. Biologics work at the cellular level, with the goal of stopping symptoms before they can start.

If you feel that your asthma symptoms are not well managed, discuss your treatment plan with your healthcare provider to see if changes need to be made.

Try Virtual Asthma Coaching

It may feel overwhelming to manage a chronic condition like asthma, but you don’t have to do it alone. Get support through the Virtual Asthma Coaching Program, part of Allergy & Asthma Network’s Trusted Messengers program. It’s a free six-week series of one-on-one online sessions with a certified asthma educator (available in English and Spanish). You’ll learn practical ways to improve your environment, maintain healthy habits and work with your healthcare team to better control your asthma.

These sessions are designed to help people with asthma adopt healthy behaviors and make informed decisions about their health. Visit AsthmaCoach.org to learn more and sign up.