Category: Brandpoint Lifestyle

2023-07-27T23:01:00

(BPT) – Heading into the spending-heavy summer holiday season, and in a year where inflation concerns are high, affording food is harder than ever before. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the cost of food items has risen by 7.7% over the past 12 months. While this affects everyone, it is especially difficult for those who have trouble affording and accessing basic necessities.

Many people who struggle with food insecurity also live in food deserts. In these areas, there is little to no access to healthy food options, especially fresh fruits and vegetables. For the millions of Americans relying on SNAP/EBT (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and Electronic Benefit Transfer), especially those living in food deserts, accessing nearby affordable fresh food that also accepts SNAP/EBT as a payment method can be a challenge.

While there’s no silver bullet to fixing food insecurity and access issues, companies like DoorDash are introducing products and partnerships to improve food access for all.

Expanding access to affordable food

Since its inception, DoorDash has been on a mission to grow and empower local economies and expand food access through innovative, affordable offerings. As part of this commitment, DoorDash has partnered with and will now accept SNAP/EBT payments on the platform with top grocers, including ALDI, Albertsons, Safeway, Meijer and participating 7-Eleven^® stores, for same-day online delivery from nearly 4,100 grocery and convenience locations nationwide.

Facilitating local delivery can have a transformational impact on food access. The ability to use SNAP/EBT payments to power food delivery can profoundly impact the high rates of food insecurity by connecting families and communities to essential items. Combined, these two initiatives can help SNAP/EBT recipients easily access thousands of grocery and convenience stores at affordable prices on the DoorDash platform.

Why delivery and why now?

More than 2.3 million people live in USDA-defined food deserts and over 4.3 million people live in communities where over 1 in 10 households receive SNAP/EBT benefits, according to data compiled by DoorDash.* With so many people struggling to afford food or even find places to buy food, same-day grocery food delivery could make a huge difference.

“The rise of on-demand delivery has had a transformational impact on food access. This is especially true for vulnerable populations, including seniors, people living in food deserts, and those facing disability or transportation barriers,” said Fuad Hannon, VP of New Verticals at DoorDash. “We’re proud to partner with these merchants to offer SNAP recipients access to quality groceries conveniently through our platform. Through the power of local delivery, enabling SNAP/EBT payments can make a profound impact on reducing food insecurity and connecting people to groceries and the essential items they need.”

“The Alliance to End Hunger is happy to see DoorDash expand its offerings with the inclusion of SNAP recipients. A key issue to ensure food security across the country is improved access, and DoorDash is taking a positive and commonsense step in today’s tech-friendly world,” said Eric Mitchell, Executive Director, Alliance to End Hunger, an organization working on the plans and ways to end hunger in America and the rest of the world.

Enabling SNAP recipients to order groceries through DoorDash can help families meet childcare and work obligations, relieve seniors of the potential stress of going to the grocery store and support people with disabilities who face mobility issues to access nutritious food efficiently and affordably with same-day delivery.

Making food delivery affordable

To make food delivery more accessible and budget friendly, DoorDash is offering SNAP/EBT recipients 2 free months of DashPass, DoorDash’s membership program that offers members $0 delivery fees on eligible orders that meet minimum subtotals from thousands of restaurants, grocery, and convenience stores nationwide.**

With DashPass, customers using SNAP/EBT benefits can save even more time and money on fresh groceries, favorite meals and more.

While there is still a long way to go before everyone can afford and access healthy food, DoorDash’s initiative is a step in the right direction. This announcement comes as DoorDash celebrates its 10th anniversary with its biggest platform updates in a decade. To learn more about DoorDash and SNAP/EBT, please visit doordash.com.

*Based on census tract population data in the DoorDash service area. DoorDash service areas can map to multiple census tracts. DoorDash defines a ‘food desert’ using the following definition provided by the USDA in the Food Access Research Atlas 2019: “Low-income census tracts where a significant number (at least 500 people) or share (at least 33 percent) of the population is greater than 1 mile from the nearest supermarket, supercenter, or large grocery store for an urban area or greater than 10 miles for a rural area.”

** TERMS & CONDITIONS

Offer valid for new Dashpass subscribers only. Must add a verified SNAP/EBT card as a Saved Payment Method on DoorDash. Must redeem offer no later than 12/31/23. Dashpass benefits available for 2 months from date of offer redemption. DashPass benefits apply only to eligible orders that meet the minimum subtotal listed on DoorDash for each participating merchant. Other fees, taxes, and gratuity still apply. Dashpass terms (including how to cancel) here.

2023-07-27T08:01:00

(BPT) – When ChatGPT came on to the scene, it and similar generative AI platforms immediately began sparking heated debates among educators, students and parents about its potential to disrupt education.

A recent study from global learning platform Quizlet found that high school and college teachers and students (aged 14-22) who have used ChatGPT or a similar AI technology agree that it is an effective study tool, with students in particular responding that it helps them to better understand the material and study faster and more efficiently.

Generative AI will be on the minds of students and teachers as they prepare to head back to the classroom this fall. With this technology top of mind, here are some things to consider this school year.

Students study smarter, not harder, with AI

Those that claim the use of AI in the classroom hinders students’ academic potential can think again. Students who spend three or more hours a night on an average weeknight during the school year studying gave credit to ChatGPT and similar AI technologies’ ability to streamline studying by generating helpful resources like study guides. Other popular uses among students included conducting research and summarizing or synthesizing information. Twenty-six percent of students in this group also said that teachers have encouraged them to use AI-generated technology like ChatGPT while they study, whereas students who reported less than two hours of studying on an average weeknight during the school year were less likely to have a teacher recommend using this technology.

UC Berkeley student Sam Clement gives AI-generated learning a thumbs up, saying, “It feels like an extension of my brain, or a supplementary boost to my own thinking abilities.” He added, “Platforms like ChatGPT make studying engaging by allowing me to probe concepts over and over until I understand. It can feel like unlimited office hours, something invaluable to busy college students.”

Students also reported that AI-generated technology has had a positive impact on their mental health, with 73% claiming it helps reduce stress and anxiety, and 57% claiming it decreases their workload.

Teachers give it an “A”

High school and college teachers that have used ChatGPT and similar AI technologies for school cite the top four uses as research, generating lesson plans, summarizing or synthesizing information and generating classroom materials like tests and assignments. Nearly half of teachers agreed that the vast capabilities of AI have made their workload more manageable.

Maureen Lamb, Dean of Educational Technology and Innovative Pedagogy and a member of the Latin faculty at The Ethel Walker School, says, “The notion that tools like Google Bard and ChatGPT are essentially shortcuts focuses on the output rather than what we want the technology to help us achieve. It’s the same question teachers ask ourselves when creating assessments and exams. ‘What skill or concept do I want my students to demonstrate?’ If ChatGPT can provide a teacher with a lesson plan for the day or generate an essay prompt, then great. It gives teachers more opportunity to refine our teaching approach and challenge students appropriate to their unique needs.”

Students and teachers embrace AI in the classroom

Some students and teachers are already working together to set ground rules for using platforms based in generative AI at school and while studying at home. Thirty-seven percent of student respondents have had teachers or instructors talk to them about the proper use of AI technology as it relates to course work, and 60% of teachers say that students are proactively approaching them about using these platforms to enhance their studies. Teachers that have been approached by students about using ChatGPT or similar technologies say their students are either asking for permission to use AI-powered platforms, examples of proper use cases or instructions on how to use AI technologies.

Lamb, who embraces the use and exploration of new technologies in her classroom, says, “A strong and trusting classroom community was something we struggled to find learning virtually during the pandemic. We need to think about technology in the classroom now like we did then.” She adds, “AI should think with us, not for us. Now, more than ever, we should encourage students to trust the power of their own voices. While AI-generated technology is a powerful tool in our toolbox, human voices still hold a huge creative advantage.”

AI can help create equitable learning environments

Students and teachers see a future with limitless potential when learning and AI come together — 42% of all respondents categorized their attitude toward AI technology in education positively. Respondents that disagree with bans on the use of AI technology in schools say that it expands access to information, assists with studying and enhances creativity and critical thinking. Forty-eight percent of teachers predict that ChatGPT and similar AI technology will help students recover from learning loss that was caused by the pandemic.

“Personally, I love the technology and don’t think that its benefits to the classroom have been fully discovered yet,” Clement added. “AI-generated technology allows students to find learning solutions that work for them, and applies what works for them to any and every problem or concept they could need. Teaching students the proper way to use this technology will be key, but I for one am very optimistic about its future.”

2023-07-26T23:05:00

(BPT) – The back-to-school season can be a magical time of year for students and parents alike. Whether it’s picking out the perfect first-day outfit, getting decked out in a new football uniform, or helping decorate your rising college freshman’s first dorm room, the season can spark plenty of special moments that make lasting, lifetime memories.

But making these moments happen can be challenging. Prices of school supplies have risen nearly 25% in the past two years, according to a July 2023 Deloitte Back-to-School Survey, putting a major strain on back-to-school budgets. Despite prices being up, the survey showed that six in 10 parents say they would be willing to splurge for the right reasons, like treating their child or allowing their child to express themselves.

Thankfully, there are ways for shoppers to have more flexibility for their back-to-school purchases — to allow not only for notebooks and pencils, but also the sparkly new shoes and a special backpack. By checking out with PayPal, shoppers can save, have more flexibility on their budget, and shop smartly and securely — knowing their privacy, money and purchases are protected for all the moments that matter most.

Here are four tips to help you stretch your back-to-school shopping budget:

1. Create a shopping list before loading up your cart

It’s easy to be tempted by back-to-school product displays, but making a detailed shopping list before you start filling up your cart can help you stay focused. While your child’s school may provide a list of required school supplies, chances are you’ll need to purchase other items like backpacks, lunch boxes, cleaning supplies, electronics and clothes, too.

Once you have your list finalized, take inventory of supplies or items you might already have at home. Your child may have leftover supplies from last year, or an older child may have supplies they can share or pass down to their younger siblings.

2. Take advantage of flexible payment options

Another way to make back-to-school shopping more manageable is by spreading payments out over time, giving you the flexibility to pay for items at a pace that works best for you and your budget.

When checking out with PayPal, shoppers can choose to break up the cost of their purchases with PayPal Pay Later — either dividing the cost into four interest-free payments with Pay in 4¹ or for larger purchases ($199 to $10,000), selecting Pay Monthly and breaking the total cost into monthly payments over a longer period of time.²

3. Shopping online? Don’t forget to look for deals!

Utilizing coupons and discounts can make shopping less stressful — and help you stretch your budget even further. However, hunting for the best deals online takes time, and sometimes you don’t know how to determine the best deal.

One way to make sure you’re getting the best value when back-to-school shopping is by using PayPal Honey. With a few clicks at checkout, PayPal Honey’s mobile and desktop browser extensions will automatically search for, and test, available coupon codes on available sites. If a working code is found, PayPal Honey then will apply the one with the biggest savings to your cart.

4. Compare, compare, compare

If you’re a smart shopper, you already know it’s worth comparing generic and brand-name items to get the best bang for your buck. After all, many generic brand back-to-school items offer the same quality as brand-name products at a lower price.

But to truly get the best deals, shoppers should keep a close eye on the price of products — which are changing all the time. One easy way to do so is with PayPal Honey’s Droplist feature, which automatically notifies you if an item you’re interested in goes on sale. So go ahead — shop around!

Making financial decisions can be stressful, but sticking to your budget doesn’t mean giving up the moments — and memories — that matter most.

1. Disclosure: Pay in 4 is subject to approval. Eligibility varies by state. CA: Loans made or arranged pursuant to a CA Financing Law License. GA: Installment Lender Licensee, NMLS #910457. RI: Small Loan Lender Licensee. NM residents: Find more disclosures related to Pay in 4. Learn more at paypal.com/payin4.

2. Disclosure: Pay Monthly is subject to credit approval. Fixed APR is 9.99-35.99% based on your credit. Rates as low as 4.99% from time to time. Terms may vary based on the purchase amount. Offer availability varies by state, merchant, and purchase amount. The lender for Pay Monthly is WebBank. PayPal, Inc. (NMLS #910457): CT Small Loan Licensee. RI Loan Broker Licensee. VT Loan Solicitation Licensee. Learn more at paypal.com/buynowpaylater.

2023-07-26T13:15:00

(BPT) – As the car capital of the world, Michigan has steered itself to be at the forefront of the next mobility revolution. The automotive industry faces a historic shift from the internal combustion engine to the electric batteries powering cars and trucks, with this transition dramatically altering the future of the automotive industry.

The switch to electric vehicles (EVs) will also have a profound impact on the environment. EVs emit no greenhouse gases, which are the leading cause of climate change. Today, the transportation sector is the largest source of greenhouse gases, accounting for about 30% of total emissions in the United States. Passenger vehicles contribute nearly 60% of transportation’s share of emissions.

As a leader in clean energy, no state is better positioned than Michigan to decarbonize the automotive industry. Climate action also presents immediate and long-term opportunities to create economic growth and support good-paying jobs.

The state’s economic development arm, the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), is committed to building on Michigan’s skilled workforce and strengths in manufacturing and the automotive sector to accelerate the transition to a cleaner, more equitable mobility future. The state also wants to share its knowledge and successes with the world — to build on its manufacturing success, history of innovation and skilled workforce to be a beacon of responsible growth in creating a greener future.

A coordinated mobility strategy

Michigan leads the nation in auto production, with nearly 19% of all cars and trucks made in the state. The state is also home to 26 automotive original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and 96 of the top 100 automotive suppliers in North America. And the mobility industry supports one out of every five workers in Michigan — contributing $304 billion annually to the state economy.

This creates a foundation that positions Michigan at the helm of the next generation of clean mobility through its clear vision and strategic investments in advanced manufacturing, the battery supply chain and workforce development. All three are essential to creating the EV ecosystem that will drive sustainable innovation, as well as attract new businesses and private investments.

The state is already pioneering a new way forward for the industry with the nation’s first Office of Future Mobility and Electrification. The office supports a comprehensive statewide approach to help government, education and the private sector drive EV advancement. Michigan is also working to ensure it stays at the forefront of mobility innovation by expanding smart infrastructure and engaging with startups. For example, Michigan is developing a first-of-its-kind system in the U.S. that embeds technology in the pavement that can charge EVs while driving.

The transition to cleaner mobility will also require manufacturers of all sizes to adopt advanced manufacturing technologies and practices to unlock innovation and remain competitive. To be a catalyst for change and further underscore Michigan’s status as the global epicenter of mobility and manufacturing, the state has been selected for the first U.S. Center for Advanced Manufacturing, in partnership with the World Economic Forum. The center engages the national manufacturing ecosystem in shaping an agenda to improve the productivity and sustainability of the sector.

Building the country’s battery production hub

One of the biggest challenges in the transition to EVs is ensuring a stable and secure supply of lithium-based batteries. The proximity of battery plants to assembly plants is also critical.

Michigan is working with automakers and battery makers to expand battery production in the state to meet the demands of a growing EV market. Since the beginning of 2022, Michigan has seen significant commitments to new projects and jobs, including:

• General Motors investing $7 billion, creating 4,000 and retaining 1,000 jobs, to convert the Orion Township assembly plant to build full-size EV pickups and build Ultium’s third U.S. battery cell plant in Lansing.
• Ford Motor Company investing $3.5 billion to build the BlueOval Battery Park Michigan, an EV battery plant in Marshall that will employ 2,500 people. The investment is in addition to the $2 billion the company plans to spend across Michigan to support EV manufacturing growth.
• LG Energy Solution investing $1.7 billion and creating 1,200 jobs to expand its battery plant in Holland.
• Our Next Energy investing $1.6 billion and creating 2,112 jobs to establish its first-ever battery manufacturing campus in Van Buren Township.

Recruiting and retaining talent

Last year, Michigan attracted over $14 billion in EV and battery investments. The state’s workforce is a big reason businesses locate and expand in the state. In fact, Michigan has more engineers per capita than anywhere else in the nation, and an unmatched skilled trades labor population. The future talent pipeline is also robust. Michigan’s University Research Corridor — an alliance of Michigan State University, the University of Michigan and Wayne State University — prepares nearly 15,000 graduates a year for careers in the mobility industry.

Michigan is also rising to meet the growing demand for talent and skills in the surging EV and mobility sector, including software developers and electrical engineers. MEDC’s new Talent Action Team leads an unprecedented recruitment effort in a public-private partnership with 14 major Michigan employers, public universities and community colleges. One of its initiatives, The Michigander EV Scholars program, will provide $10,000 scholarships to as many as 350 top tech students at participating universities who sign a letter of employment with an approved company and commit to staying for 12 months in the Great Lakes State.

Through the collective actions of MEDC and its partners, Michigan serves as a role model of how the public and private sectors can together support the creation of more equitable and sustainable transportation for all.

To learn more about Michigan’s agenda to become a global leader in a cleaner, greener and more equitable mobility future, watch the video at https://puremi.ch/4061cVN.

2023-07-25T06:01:00

(BPT) – Heartworms are one of the most common — and preventable — threats to pet health. Sadly, owners who think their pets’ risk is low may unknowingly be taking a pass on protecting them from heartworms. To help both veterinarians and pet owners better understand this threat, the American Heartworm Society (AHS) periodically conducts nationwide surveys of veterinary practices to see where the heartworms are. From their latest AHS survey, you can learn more about how heartworms spread (yes, mosquitoes are to blame), where heartworm-positive pets are being diagnosed, and why heartworms are now being found in regions once thought to be heartworm-free.

2023-07-25T11:37:00

(BPT) –

The holidays are a magical time of year for families, but for parents, there’s a lot to do to get ready. Prepping early is key, but where to start?

Carter’s, the most trusted brand of apparel exclusively for babies and young children, has the essentials you need to ease the pressure of the season so that you can spend even more time creating memories with your family.

If you’re looking to start checking off your holiday to-do list early or just want to celebrate Christmas in July, check out these top tips from Carter’s and internet sensation Brunch with Babs to help families get a head start on holiday prep.

Hiding in Plain Sight

Purchasing holiday gifts early is always a great way to relieve some stress during the busy season, but many parents fear this means a higher risk of their little ones finding them. According to Babs, the best way to keep your gifts hidden until it’s time to open is to hide them in places your little ones will rarely look, like an old suitcase.

When it comes to making sure you know which gift is for which child, you can also try choosing one style of wrapping paper per person in your family to avoid mix-ups!

Always Have a Matching Moment Ready

Carter’s family matching pajamas are a holiday season staple no matter the occasion. Whether you are wearing them to take a family photo, watch holiday movies on the couch, or for some good old family bonding, your family will never want to take them off.

HOT TIP: For parents who want to snag the best prints and patterns before they are sold out, Carter’s is having a Christmas in July sale! July 25 through July 26 (two days only!), you can shop pajamas like the Elf Cotton & Fleece Pajamas and Plaid Coat-Style Pajamas on sale to wear all season long. Getting in front of the holidays by taking advantage of the limited-time sale pricing is a big win for the season.

Planning for Pictures

Everyone loves making memories, but don’t forget about capturing them! While often forgotten or pushed to the bottom of your to-do list, holiday cards and photos are something you will cherish forever. To avoid missing out on another year of family portraits, Babs recommends getting your PJs early this year and snapping some pics before the holiday season begins!

“Don’t wait for the holiday rush — if you shop Carter’s holiday PJs now, you can save by snagging the styles on sale and wear them all season long,” she says.

Take a few tips from someone who knows best and make this holiday season the best one yet. Your future self will thank you!

2023-07-25T09:01:00

(BPT) – Firing up the grill is synonymous with summer. In fact, July is the peak month for grill fires, and 64% of U.S. households own at least one outdoor BBQ, grill or smoker according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

While the warm weather and gatherings with friends and family draw us outdoors, it’s important to take safety precautions. Check out these five grilling safety tips before putting on your apron.

Grill outside and away from structures. An average of 10,600 home fires are started by grills, hibachis or barbeques each year according to the NFPA. Make sure to place your grill outside and position it a safe distance away from anything that can catch fire — like siding, deck railings and overhanging branches. Always set it on an even surface in an open, well-ventilated area.

Clean and inspect your grill. Before igniting the grill, remove all grease buildup from the grills and the catch trays below them. If your grill uses charcoal, make sure it has cooled down completely before you dispose of it. Before and after each use, inspect all parts of the grill for any needed maintenance or cracks.

Create a safe zone. You should never leave a lit grill unattended. For an extra level of protection, keep kids and pets at least three feet away from the grill to help reduce the risk of accidents and injuries.

Keep flames in the fire pit. If your summer evening plans call for a backyard “campfire” or gathering around the fire pit, make sure to keep fire pits at least three feet away from the house and anything else that can catch fire. Closely supervise children when using the fire pit and ensure the fire is put out before leaving the backyard.

Be prepared in the event of a fire. Even if you’re following safe grilling practices, you should always keep a fire extinguishing device nearby, like the First Alert EZ Fire Spray. It is easy to use — just point and spray — and clean up after use is also quick and easy. The device is compact and can easily be stored, making it a convenient and practical option to have next to your grill or campfire.

To learn more fire safety tips, visit FirstAlert.com.

2023-07-25T00:01:00

(BPT) – You probably know what’s coming: Along with changing leaves and dropping temps this fall will come the sniffles, stuffy nose and itchy eyes from allergies to certain plants like ragweed. Unfortunately, climate change has increased the intensity of symptoms and the length of time that many people cope with their autumn allergies.

If fall is a time when you’re hit hard by allergies, you are better off acting now — instead of after you’re already experiencing symptoms.

“Don’t let the changing seasons catch you by surprise,” says Kathleen May, M.D., president of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI). “Planning ahead can help make this year’s fall allergy season a lot more manageable, no matter what’s happening in the environment where you live.”

Whether you’ve had allergies for years or you suspect that they may be the cause of your recent unpleasant symptoms, here are tips from ACAAI to help you prepare for autumn allergies before they strike — so you can reduce itching, sneezing and wheezing and enjoy everything the season has to offer.

Stay in the know

Keep an eye on your local pollen and mold counts. When they are high, it’s best to avoid spending too much time outdoors. Keep the AC running in your car and home to help filter out allergens (rather than leaving the windows open).

You can also protect yourself when you need to be outdoors on higher pollen count days by wearing an N95 mask to help filter out pollen, and wearing a hat and sunglasses to help keep pollen out of your eyes.

Don’t wait to medicate

If you already take allergy medication each fall, make sure not to wait until after your symptoms start. Instead, plan to begin taking your medication about two weeks before your symptoms usually begin for full effectiveness — and keep taking the medication two weeks after the first frost, as your symptoms may linger after most of the pollen is gone.

Unsure exactly when to start taking your medication? Talk to your allergist for advice on a treatment plan that’s proactive rather than reactive. Then take a simple step like adding a medication reminder to your calendar so you won’t forget.

Adjust some household habits

Making a few minor changes to your household routine in the fall — or even year-round — can have an impact on your exposure to allergens while you’re at home. Here are some recommendations:

• Change your HVAC filter every three months — and choose a high-quality filter such as those with a MERV rating of 11-13 for the best filtration of pollen and mold.
• Leave shoes at the door — and wash clothes immediately after spending time outdoors.
• Shower or bathe at night to avoid bringing allergens into your bed.
• Don’t hang clothes or bedding outside to dry after washing.

See an allergist

Because the environmental conditions that create allergens and your body’s response to them can change over time, it’s a good idea to see your allergist for an updated, personalized treatment plan that can best help you manage your symptoms, no matter the season. Allergists are specially trained to help diagnose and treat your specific allergy and/or asthma symptoms, using the latest testing and treatments to help you get back to enjoying your life.

If you are — or think you might be — one of the over 50 million Americans who suffer from allergies, you can find an allergist in your area by visiting ACAAI.org/find-an-allergist.

2023-07-24T12:45:00

(BPT) – Grilling in the summer is a great way to leisurely prepare a meal and enjoy the outdoors while spending time with the ones you love. Whether you’re planning a backyard barbecue or a tailgate before a concert or sports game, grilling is a can’t miss.

According to a survey conducted by Atomik Research in 2023 on behalf of Tyson^® Brand, 93% of U.S. adults believe that food brings people together. With such overwhelming consensus, there’s no better way to forge memories with friends and family than by planning an unforgettable cookout. Whether it’s a casual cookout in your backyard, an electrifying tailgating event before the big game or a cozy fall bonfire, congregating over a delicious meal has the potential to create unforgettable memories and deepen bonds. Before you send out the invites and buy your supplies, brushing up on the grilling basics is a good idea. Check out these five tips that will have you grilling like a pro in no time.

1. Prep your grill

Before you can start cooking, you’ll need to prepare the star of the show! Make sure to clean the inside of the grill and the grates thoroughly. Use a grill brush or scraper to remove any stuck food, grease or debris left over from the last time the grill was used.

If you have cast-iron or stainless-steel grates, take the time to season them. Warm up the grill, coat the grates with cooking oil and let it burn off. Repeat this process several times to create a nonstick surface perfect for grilling.

2. Collect your tools

Every grill master needs the proper tools to get their grill on. For example, if you have a charcoal grill, you can easily and quickly light a large quantity of charcoal with a chimney so you can start grilling as soon as possible.

Other must-have grilling tools include long grilling tongs, grill gloves, an instant-read thermometer, skewers, basting brushes, and a grill basket. All these items will make it easy to grill all kinds of meats, fish, and vegetables, especially when cooking for a party.

3. Pick a crowd-pleasing protein

No meal is complete without protein. That’s why it’s important to pick one that even the pickiest eater will like. When in doubt, opt for chicken.

Chicken is a versatile, convenient, and popular protein that most U.S. adults say is a crowd-pleaser the whole family enjoys, according to a recent 2023 Atomik Reasearch survey. Also, more than half said the benefit of grilling out is that even their picky kids will eat chicken.

Chicken pairs well with various flavors and side dishes, and 86% of survey respondents feel that chicken is a “better-for-you” meal option. Whether paired with a marinade, dipped in BBQ sauce or made into a fajita feast, chicken is a popular choice for grilling.

When picking chicken for your backyard cookout, pick up a few packs of Tyson^® Fresh Trimmed & Ready^® Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts. This 100% all-natural, minimally processed protein comes from high quality, farm-raised chicken and contains no artificial ingredients. Best of all, the chicken is trimmed and ready to cook, so you can skip the prep and toss them right into the pan or on the grill. Pick up a pack in the refrigerator section at your local retailer and visit Tyson.com for more information.

4. Don’t forget the marinade

Make sure to carve out time in advance for marinating your chicken. The survey found that nearly 2 in 3 adults (64%) always or often marinate their protein before grilling, and it’s easy to see why. Marinating chicken and other proteins enhances the taste, helps the meat retain moisture during grilling and tenderizes the protein so every bite is flavorful, tender, and juicy.

Choose a few marinades, so you’ll have a variety of flavor options, even if you use the same protein. Purchase or prepare a BBQ sauce, garlic and herb, brown sugar or teriyaki marinade. Toss marinade and meat in a sturdy container, cover, and refrigerate for 30 minutes before cooking. You can even prepare and marinate meat overnight so it’s ready for your cookout.

5. Enjoy!

Beyond an excuse to eat a delicious meal, grilling is a great way to create a memorable event for friends and family to enjoy, including the grill master. Once you’re done preparing food for everyone else, make a plate for yourself, sit down and enjoy a gorgeous day with great food and even better company.

Don’t let sunny days pass you by without hosting a backyard bash or tailgate to remember. Using these five tips, you’ll be prepared to fire up the grill and create a meal your guests won’t soon forget.

2023-07-24T08:01:00

(BPT) – Recent studies show that charitable donations are declining. In fact, according to a recent survey conducted by Dunham+Company and outlined in Chronicle of Philanthropy (A Fourth of Donors Plan to Give Less in 2023. Here’s How to Keep Them in the Fold), nearly a quarter of those surveyed who had previously given $20 or more said they plan to give less in the future.

While the statistics can be discouraging, three unstoppable students are proving that anything is possible with hard work and dedication, especially with a lifesaving mission in mind.

Each year, thousands of relentless high school students across the U.S. commit to ending blood cancer by participating in The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s (LLS) philanthropic competition, Student Visionaries of the Year.

The 2023 National Student Visionaries of the Year winning team, “Chipping Away at Cancer,” broke a new fundraising record, raising over $1.1 million to help LLS in funding lifesaving research, support services for patients, and critical advocacy efforts. The winning team is composed of co-candidates, 16-year-old Mary Stewart Efird, 16-year-old Danny Horgan, and 16-year-old Evan Coverdale of the Charlotte, North Carolina, metro area.

Knowing firsthand the devastation a cancer diagnosis brings upon a family, the team “Chipping Away at Cancer” knew they wanted to do something to support others impacted by this terrible disease diagnosed every 180 seconds across the U.S.

Efird nearly lost her beloved cousin, Lila, to acute myeloid leukemia two years ago. She is now cancer-free because of an LLS-funded clinical trial. Similarly, Horgan’s grandfather is a survivor of blood cancer and participated in his honor.

From hosting innovative community events to working around the clock to develop creative pitch decks, it’s safe to say their relentless efforts to raise funds for LLS paid off.

All three million-dollar fundraising superstars were asked what their biggest piece of advice is for anyone determined to raise funds for a cause close to their heart. Here’s what they had to say:

“As a young person, fundraising can seem extremely intimidating and challenging. I have found that you just have to commit to the first step — making an ask. A personal ask can transform your fundraising efforts as you share your story with those willing to listen.

“Whatever the result, this personal ask opens the door to a meaningful connection that strengthens your community and grows your cause!” — Mary Stewart Efird

“I found that the best way to fundraise was to ask as many people as possible to donate, no matter who they may be. The amount of times I was told yes were significantly more than no. Especially in cancer fundraising, almost everyone you talk to has somehow been affected, either personally, in the family, or a friend; even I saw cancer firsthand through my grandfather.

“With this being said, I believe that people were attracted to donate to the cause because they know how much cancer has impacted the world. Although this might not be the same in other types of fundraising, I would still say that to have the most impact, don’t be afraid to ask.” — Danny Horgan

“Throughout this campaign, I faced a lot of adversity. The main one I faced was nervousness and anxiety. Before this campaign, I was not much of a social person and would become uncomfortable when in the spotlight. That being said, my main piece of advice would be don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone because you can accomplish amazing things.

“I thought doing these meetings and asking important people for donations would be a large leap out of my comfort zone but I quickly realized I was only making a small step instead. My first few meetings, the people I met with were so kind and generous and were more than happy to donate to this incredible cause so my worry soon faded into ambitiousness.

“So, I urge you, if you are anything like me, go out and just try to make a difference and you will see the amazing things you can do as well as your comfort zone expanding.” — Evan Coverdale

LLS’s signature fundraisers have helped invest more than $1.6 billion in cutting-edge research worldwide, fueling nearly every critical advancement in blood cancer treatment that spans the most promising cancer research.