Category: Brandpoint Lifestyle

2023-06-21T10:01:00

(BPT) – A few years ago, cryptocurrencies seemed to be a niche form of payment that many were skeptical would catch on. Now, the tide has turned and Venmo, Paypal, Zelle and other payment platforms have embraced digital currency, with Bitcoin leading the charge. As individuals and businesses continue to explore Bitcoin’s possibilities, mobile app integration of this cryptocurrency has become necessary. However, not all companies are embracing the currency of the Internet.

Tech giants differ on Bitcoin integration

In mid-June, Apple issued Damus, a social network platform, an ultimatum: Remove Bitcoin tipping from its app or be banned from the App Store. According to screenshots posted by Damus’s Twitter account, Apple will require users to tip using Apple’s in-app purchase system, which imposes a 30% fee on each transaction.

This isn’t the first time the tech giant has banned cryptocurrency. In 2013, Apple removed Bitcoin-based apps from the App Store, angering many users, but reversed the policy ban a year later.

While Apple continues to resist Bitcoin integration on its platform, its competitor has embraced the digital currency. Google Cloud, a suite of cloud-based computing services, has partnered with Voltage, a Lightning as a Service (LaaS) provider for Bitcoin, to allow customers to create Bitcoin and Lightning nodes around the world.

By leveraging the Lightning Network’s real-time payment settlement with near zero fees, Google is empowering organizations and individuals to send and receive payments and creating new business models and experiences, according to Google Cloud’s announcement.

Facilitating peer-to-peer transactions

The purpose of Bitcoin and the Lightning Network is to create an infrastructure for peer-to-peer (p2p) transactions. In an increasingly internet-forward world, p2p transactions can be crucial, especially for people who do not have bank accounts.

According to the Global Findex Database, 1.4 billion adults worldwide remain unbanked, and without a bank account, these individuals end up paying high fees to access financial services securely. Also, unbanked individuals have a much harder time utilizing credit.

With p2p transactions, unbanked and underbanked consumers have the means and freedom to participate in their local and the global economy. With the addition of p2p Bitcoin transactions, unbanked and underbanked consumers have access to a payment that the U.S. Chamber of Commerce has said is more secure than credit and debit card payments.

Integrating Bitcoin p2p transactions is good for businesses, too. Voltage says that a Lightning Network solution that facilitates real-time payments can enable organizations to send and receive payments while creating new experiences and business models. The LaaS provider believes micropayments can be used to improve retention, decrease customer acquisition costs and increase the lifetime value of customers.

By partnering with Voltage to expand its Bitcoin services, Google has acknowledged the importance of user choice and cryptocurrencies’ role in the evolving digital landscape. To learn more about Google Cloud and Voltage’s partnership and the Lightning Network, visit Voltage.Cloud.

2023-06-21T07:01:00

(BPT) – When the tantalizing aroma of barbecues fills the air and laughter echoes through backyard celebrations, you know summer has arrived. From sun-soaked afternoons to relaxed evenings, people across the country are planning gatherings with friends and family to share food and fun while making lasting memories.

The Cooking Mom, Amy Hanten, is a cookbook author and popular blogger who loves to grill and entertain throughout the warm weather months. She shares her favorite tips for summer entertaining the easy way so you can create a memorable and stress-free gathering.

1. Keep it simple

Try to prep for your party as much as possible ahead of time and don’t try to do it all. For example, pick up the veggie and fruit trays from the local grocer. If you’re grilling, ask friends to pitch in and bring a dish to pass. Just be specific about what they should bring, such as an appetizer or dessert, otherwise you may end up with five pasta salads.

2. Make a brat tub

Avoid getting stuck at the grill for the entire party and try a “brat tub”. Grill the brats before everybody arrives and then transfer them to a big foil pan filled with butter, onions, sauerkraut and beer. Keep the pan on the grill over low heat to keep the brats warm and juicy. Everybody can just serve themselves whenever and you can enjoy more of the party.

3. Have fun with toppings

If you’re grilling burgers, brats and hot dogs, consider a toppings bar. Aside from the usual ketchup, mustard and pickles, set out fun toppings like shredded cheeses, fried onions, peppers, salsas and barbecue sauce. People can enjoy customizing their plates and creating their own flavor profiles.

4. Try a summer charcuterie

Give standard charcuterie boards a summer spin with grilled sausage instead of cold meats. Pick up Johnsonville smoked rope sausages (try Andouille or Chorizo for bolder flavors) and then serve the warm sliced sausage with a variety of mustards and spreads plus favorite cheeses, nuts and fruits. It’s a simple and delicious way to impress guests.

5. Explore new recipes

Want the flavors of summer but don’t want to grill? Give the grill a night off and try something new. A shrimp and sausage boil is an easy breezy way to feed a crowd and make a big impression. A big stock pot is your ticket to a delectable feast of potatoes, corn, shrimp and sausage. Get the full recipe at TheCookingMom.com.

Summer entertaining is more than just cooking — it’s a cherished tradition that brings people together, creating memories and forging connections over delicious food. These tips can help you create a memorable event that everyone will enjoy without the mess or stress. For more insight and inspiration visit Johnsonville.com.

2023-06-21T07:01:00

(BPT) – Summer is here, and everyone deserves a glow up to feel their best this season. Of course, looking good on the outside relies, in part, on what goes inside. One snack provides a powerful punch of glow-friendly nutrition in a convenient, compact and naturally delicious package: sweet Northwest cherries.

Glow up with fresh, sweet Northwest cherries

Growers in the Northwest are harvesting sweet cherries now, stocking produce sections across the nation with this summertime superfruit. Sweet cherries deliver a juicy burst of flavor, while boasting an abundance of nutritional benefits sure to help maintain a healthy glow all summer long. Here are a handful of ways they do it:

1. Healthier skin

Sweet Northwest cherries give skin a boost of nourishment, especially darker varieties, like Bing cherries, which are rich in antioxidants. Antioxidants help stabilize free radicals that can otherwise lead to oxidative stress that, in turn, may speed skin’s aging. Sweet cherries are also packed with vitamin C, which plays a crucial role in collagen production for a healthy complexion.

2. Reduced stress

Sweet cherries are a natural source of serotonin, which studies have found to be an important factor in reducing stress and improving mood. The phenolics in cherries, which work as antioxidants, also appear to offer some protection against cell-damaging oxidative stress. Plus, adding sweet cherries to the weekly shopping list can alleviate another type of stress: finding a tasty and nutritious snack that will please the entire family.

3. Better sleep

In addition to being a natural, plant source of serotonin, sweet cherries have melatonin and tryptophan. In studies, these three compounds have been shown to help improve the quantity and quality of sleep, both of which are critical to giving the body — including the skin — ample time for repair and restoration. Consuming a serving of cherries about an hour before bedtime may aid in stabilizing and regulating sleep patterns.

4. Revived muscles

Sweet cherries contain anthocyanins, which give Bing cherries their deep red color and have anti-inflammatory properties. Such qualities have been shown to help muscles recover more quickly after exercise, making cherries an ideal accompaniment to a range of summertime activities.

5. Steady energy

The whole family can keep glowing with the high-fiber, low-glycemic-index benefits of sweet cherries. Sweet cherries boast a lower glycemic index than most other fruits, helping blood sugar stay level while spoiling taste buds all summer long. A cup of sweet cherries also delivers about 3 grams of fiber, making sweet cherries a perfect grab-and-go snack with staying power.

On the next grocery run, be sure to add a bag of sweet Northwest cherries to the cart to fuel a summertime glow up. Fresh, sweet Northwest cherries are available now through August. For recipes, preservation tips — to maintain a glow year-round — and inspiration on incorporating sweet cherries into everyday diets, visit: www.nwcherries.com.

2023-06-20T10:45:00

(BPT) – Menopause is a biological process that marks the end of a woman’s reproductive years. While it’s a natural and normal stage of life, it’s also one that’s surrounded by numerous misconceptions.

“Menopause is often shrouded in myths, stereotypes and misinformation, which can lead to confusion, and unnecessary anxiety for women who are approaching this life transition,” said Dr. Kira Halak, a board-certified naturopathic doctor. “It’s important to get the facts straight about this life stage for women, and through awareness, preparation and helpful solutions, we can feel more empowered to thrive during menopause.”

Halak shares some of the most common menopause misconceptions and provides accurate information to help dispel these myths and empower women to better understand and navigate this important stage of life.

Misconception: Menopause means constant hot flashes

Facts: Yes, hot flashes are the most common symptom of menopause, affecting approximately 85% of menopausal women. However, this doesn’t mean you have to suffer through regular discomfort. By making simple lifestyle adjustments, you can turn down the heat before it creeps up on you.

First, it’s important to avoid triggers such as smoking, wearing tight and restrictive clothing, using heavy blankets on your bed, and excessive stress. Next, adjusting some everyday habits can help prevent hot flashes altogether, including: establish a calming or de-stress routine (especially before bedtime), exercise during the day, dress in layers to more easily remove or add clothing based on your body temperature, use a bedside fan, turn the thermostat down, and maintain a healthy weight. A symptoms journal can also help you narrow down your hot flash triggers and determine which lifestyle adjustments help the most.

Misconception: Menopause doesn’t happen until your 50s

Facts: “This is one of the biggest myths I hear,” Halak says. “The truth is menopause symptoms can start occurring as early as a woman’s mid-30s, so being more aware about symptoms can better equip women to seek out helpful solutions.”

There are several stages of the menopause transition. Perimenopause happens first, when periods start to become irregular and initial symptoms start to appear. Menopause is officially marked by the absence of menstruation for 12 months. After this point a woman is considered to be in post-menopause, which marks the end of reproductive years.

When you understand what’s happening and why, you have a far better opportunity to manage your health in the way that you choose. You’ll also be better equipped to talk to your health care provider from a position of knowledge and power, further helping him or her focus on addressing your concerns.

Misconception: You need to take hormones to manage your symptoms

Facts: Hormone replacement therapy and prescription medication are options women can use to deal with menopause symptoms, but they are not the only options available. Alternatively, a healthy diet made up of whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains and high quality lean proteins, along with stress relief techniques and certain dietary supplements, can be extremely helpful in alleviating menopause symptoms.

When it comes to supplements, the key is to look for products with ingredients that are backed by science. For example, there are numerous clinical trials supporting the safety and efficacy of rhapontic rhubarb extract to address menopause symptoms. Estroven^® Complete Multi-Symptom Menopause Relief provides naturally sourced rhapontic rhubarb root extract that is shown to relieve all major menopause symptoms and is proven to provide up to 90% reduction in hot flashes and night sweats. Learn more at Estroven.com.

Misconception: Exercise doesn’t help menopause symptoms

Facts: Exercise has an overall positive impact on your physical and mental well-being, and many women find that yoga, in particular, can help alleviate menopause symptoms, likely due to its capacity to lower stress, encourage a healthy lifestyle, foster a happy outlook, help regulate sleep and lower blood pressure.

Several studies have found practicing yoga consistently offers benefits that go beyond the mat. Regular practice may provide relief for several symptoms and has an overall positive effect on both the mind and body. There are different styles of yoga for every fitness level, making it an excellent choice for beginners.

Misconception: Menopause is the same for most women

Facts: There is no “one size fits all” when it comes to menopause and symptoms women experience will vary. Many women assume they will experience all of the worst symptoms of menopause, but many women can sail smoothly through this phase of their lives, and it’s important to know there are a wide range of options available to help women thrive through this journey.

Menopause is just another life stage just like experiencing puberty or adolescence — you can cope with the changes leading up to it and enter this new chapter confidently. You may find that you’ll try a few different options until you find what works best for you, and you may find that sometimes you need to seek the help of others to get you through. Getting together with your closest friends for some much needed bonding, or joining a support group online or in your community, can be great mood boosters and sources of support as you navigate through this journey.

“There are many myths and misconceptions surrounding menopause that can be confusing,” said Halak. “But knowledge is power, and by seeking out accurate information and support, women can navigate the menopausal journey with greater confidence and ease, empowering themselves to lead happy, healthy and fulfilling lives. The more that women talk openly and educate themselves, the more we can shift the mindset from women suffering with menopause — or avoiding their symptoms altogether — to women thriving with menopause.”

2023-06-20T14:46:34

(BPT) – Summer is upon us, and it’s the perfect time to get outdoors and live out all of life’s adventures on the open road. From camping, fishing and kayaking to mountain biking and hiking, there is really nothing like enjoying the great outdoors and getting back to the basics with family and friends, or solo this season. For truck enthusiasts, it’s important to gear up for your home away from home. Here are our top five recommendations for truck accessories to make the most out of summer 2023.

N-Fab HVM Bull Bar

The newly released N-FAB HVM Bull Bar’s ferocious design adds essential front-end protection and an aggressive look which creates a unique visual aesthetic for your truck. It features a custom tight fit to the bumper with a matte black powder coat finish that complements the factory trim. The steel frame is anchored by fully integrated dual recovery hooks. With forged aluminum construction, these massive shackle mounts prepare you to handle all kinds of outdoor, trail-worthy adventures.

N-Fab Universal Roof Rack

The N-FAB Universal Roof Rack adds essential overhead cargo capacity and works with most OEM and aftermarket crossbars. Its sleek, low-profile design will unleash your ability to explore “Out in the Real” this season by giving you additional storage space for all your summer toys. The rack is spacious and sturdy, holding up to 180 lbs. of cargo, secured with built-in anchor points. Another unique feature of the N-Fab Universal Roof Rack is that it has integrated front and rear multi-mount light systems, providing the capability to add auxiliary lighting to illuminate the campsite or those late nights on the trail.

Solid Fold ALX Tonneau Cover

The Extang Solid Fold ALX Tonneau Cover is packed with features that are anything but average. Its sturdy makeup resists dents, scratches and fading from various weather conditions. While the cover appears to be lightweight, it’s deceptively strong and can support up to 600 lbs. of evenly distributed weight. Installing this product on your truck bed will allow you to keep camping, fishing and hiking gear clean and dry, as well as give you support to add additional equipment on top of the cover. It’s ideal for traveling with all your outside summer essentials.

The Rampage TrailView Fastback Soft Top

The Rampage TrailView Fastback Soft Top combines unbeatable styling and functionality with all the great features you look for in a replacement top. It fits 2021-present Ford Bronco two- and four-door models. The cover is easy to install and provides a snug, uniform fit. It has larger side windows than most covers which improves overall visibility. The TrailView Fastback Soft Top is two tops in one — a full soft top and an open-air safari top that can be easily opened from inside the vehicle. This combo top is the perfect option for summer, because you can ride with the top down and enjoy the summer breeze while traveling offroad, but can quickly get coverage if harsh conditions appear.

Husky Liners X-Act Contour Liners

Husky Liners X-Act Contour Liners are an easy and practical addition to your truck, van or SUV that’ll keep your interior clean. Venture out on dirt or mud, and don’t sweat getting your shoes wet while trying to snag your next big catch. These liners repel it all and fit like a glove with no edge curls or gaps, ensuring protection. They are easy to install and provide rock-solid stability for any adventure.

Summer is meant to be spent Out in the Real, so grab your gear and get out there!

2023-06-20T08:01:00

(BPT) – Can you recognize the symbol appearing on plastic products denoting they are recyclable? If not, you’re not alone. While many Americans are concerned about recycling, a recent study conducted on behalf of CG Roxane reveals that more education around recycling is still needed. Nearly one-third of Americans (32%) were unable to correctly identify the universal recycling symbol, and only 29% said they try to recycle when they can.

While many companies today are making an effort to contribute to the recycling ecosystem, including using more post-consumer recycled (PCR) materials, the study reveals that crucial components are missing in the recycling process: adequate consumer knowledge and participation, and perceived absence of local recycling services. This is partly due to a lack of information and understanding of how easily people can contribute to the recycling effort, and just how vital consumer participation is for the overall process to be successful.

In the study, over half of the respondents (51%) were unaware of initiatives many companies are working on when it comes to post-consumer recycled resin or PCR plastic, which is unsurprising, as 66% did not know what PCR plastic means. Once informed that it is plastic produced from post-consumer recycled resin and used to create new packaging to reduce the impact on landfill waste, 56% noted that purchasing PCR plastic products was important to them.

This summer, CG Roxane reached its goal of producing Crystal Geyser^® Alpine Spring Water^® bottles nationally using a minimum of 50% recycled polyethylene terephthalate (rPET) plastic. CG Roxane also uses an “EZ-Open Cap” on 8-ounce bottles, offering Californian consumers easy, one-click convenience while saving plastic. It also ensures the cap will never be lost, and helps to make recycling the bottle and cap simpler while also reducing potential harm to wildlife.

What you can do

Here are simple things you can do to play your part in increasing the success of recycling programs nationwide.

1. Choose products packaged in recyclable and PCR-produced containers

Buying containers created from at least some recycled material — and material that can be recycled again — goes a long way toward ensuring less ends up in landfills. For example, CG Roxane was the first U.S. beverage company to incorporate an in-house recycled polyethylene terephthalate (rPET) program, which allows them to bottle their Crystal Geyser^® Alpine Spring Water^® with a minimum of 50% rPET plastic nationwide between their San Bernardino, CA, and Benton, TN, plants.

By producing Crystal Geyser^® Alpine Spring Water^® bottles manufactured with no less than 50% recycled PET content, it will save nearly 11 thousand metric tons of CO2 per year, or the equivalent of removing 2,510 gasoline-powered passenger vehicles from the roads.

2. Familiarize yourself with the recycling symbol

If you see the symbol on a plastic bottle or packaging, you’ll know it’s possible to recycle that plastic. Items without that symbol are unlikely to be recyclable. Take a good look at the small number within the symbol, as those also have meanings. Additionally the numbers within the symbol indicate the type of plastic from which the container or packaging is made. While plastics labeled #1 (PET) or #2 (HDPE) are the most commonly recycled plastics everywhere, not all other numbers are collected in every recycling program.

3. Learn about your local recycling programs

Every city, county or municipality has its own rules and procedures regarding recycling. Go to your local government website to learn what recycling options are available where you live, and how you can participate. Guidelines may include which recycling numbers are accepted, as well as basic rules you may find everywhere, such as making sure plastic containers are clean, rinsed and dry before collecting for recycling.

Beyond bottling at the source and its increased commitment to using recycled materials and making packaging and delivery processes as efficient as possible, family-owned and operated CG Roxane actively participates in supporting its communities through partnerships with American Forests and the California Coastal Commission.

Learn more about CG Roxane’s efforts and how you can make a difference at CrystalGeyserPlease.com.

*Source: EPA.gov.

2023-06-20T07:01:00

(BPT) – Bath time can sometimes feel like a daunting experience, especially for first-time parents. But bath time with your little ones is so much more than just another chore on the list. It provides parents the opportunity to bond with their child while making sure they’re happy and clean.

With some expert advice you can turn bath time into a happy, developmental activity for the whole family. Bath time expert Ashley Sousa, registered nurse, International Board Certified Lactation Consultant and Baby Magic ambassador, shares her top five tips to help create a fun and relaxing bath time experience for babies and parents.

1. Choose the right bath time

Routine is essential to baby’s health. A daily routine helps baby transition into a rhythm, which in turn, helps them to feel comfortable and secure. You can help your baby expect bath time by selecting a time in the day when they’re most relaxed and happy. An ideal bath time might be after a long day of play or a delicious (but messy) meal. Once you find a time that works best for your family, do your best to stick to it.

2. Create a bath time ritual

Establishing a bath time ritual creates cues that let your little one know it’s time to relax while you bathe them. As the tub fills, begin play time with your baby so they associate bath time with fun time. After a bath, dress them in their pajamas and enjoy some cuddle time so your little one feels calm and relaxed before you tuck them in.

“My husband has started a new nightly routine with our daughter,” said Sousa. “Every night before bed he uses the Baby Magic Vanilla & Oat Creamy Whipped Butter to massage our daughter’s legs and feet and talk about their days. They giggle and bond while locking moisture in on skin.”

3. Integrate bath toys

Babies love playing with toys, especially in the bathtub. Toys like rubber ducks, squirt toys or water scoops can make bath time fun and stimulating for baby. Having dedicated bath toys builds positive association with bath time so that your baby looks forward to getting squeaky clean.

Be sure to pick out age-appropriate toys that are safe for your baby to use in water. Offer them a variety of toys to choose from so that bath time is always new and interesting. Changing up bath toys from time to time can help keep them engaged during a bath.

4. Soothe fears with bubbles

Water can be a scary element for babies. The sound, temperature and sense of floating can startle them, making them feel unsettled or scared. Help soothe your little one’s fears by adding a playful element like bubbles.

“Sometimes babies can be afraid of bath time. A good way to help with the fear is by adding Baby Magic Soothing Hair & Body Wash to the water for some extra bubbles. Making sure the water is shallow is another great way to slowly introduce bath time,” said Sousa.

5. Sing, talk and bond

Bath time is the perfect opportunity to bond with your little one. Talking and singing to them while they bathe can help them feel secure, entertained and loved.

Try singing nursery rhymes, telling stories or simply talking to your baby. Your presence and voice will help them relax and make the time a more enjoyable experience. The sound of your voice will help you and your baby bond and create cherished memories to last a lifetime.

Exercising these five tips can make bath time a fun part of your daily routine with your baby. When bathing your child, make sure to use wholesome products like Baby Magic’s Soothing Hair & Body Wash and Whipped Butter to cleanse and moisturize hair and skin. The Soothing Collection is specially formulated for sensitive skin with nourishing colloidal oat to leave skin feeling soft and comforted. Best of all, they can be used by the whole family! To learn more visit BabyMagic.com.

2023-06-19T20:29:00

(BPT) – By Hwang Sung-gyul, head of the Design Management Center at LG Electronics

The physical design or look of a product is extremely important in creating a good first impression with consumers. Equally vital to the reception and enduring appeal of a product is another kind of design called customer experience (CX) design. An innovator in both areas, LG is known for delivering lifestyle solutions that provide pleasing aesthetics and memorable customer experiences.

For LG, the CX journey begins with research into all aspects of user-product interactions — work that is conducted at the Design Management Center. The company’s commitment to ‘customer-centered thinking’ informs the Center’s approach to constructing and curating the CX, which has emerged as arguably the most critical component of industrial design.

In the past, designers’ only focus during the product development process was on product packaging and the appearance of the product itself. Today, however, designers are often heavily involved in multiple aspects of the operation, right from the very beginning of planning. Designers can provide much-needed visual references for core concepts and design elements, providing clarity of direction and helping to get every member of the development team on the same page.

The experts at the Design Management Center keep the target customer in mind from the outset, establishing a clear methodology for aligning their decisions and choices with this people-first approach. LG’s designers also act as a liaison between the engineers — who address the technological requirements to make a product work — and the customer; giving a voice to the customer perspective to help guide the CX to exactly where it needs to be.

In some respects, consumers have become more sophisticated than the designers, developers and businesses responsible for the products and services they buy or subscribe to. Influencers, bloggers and YouTubers dig into products with an unprecedented level of expertise, pushing brand designers to up their game and further their understanding of the CX.

This starts with undertaking in-depth research into all aspects of how consumers experience the products they use. Once these ‘aspects’ have been identified, they can then be reverse-engineered and ultimately incorporated into the product and CX design. How a product is received, or whether it is viewed as ‘good’ or ‘bad’ depends on the designers’ ability to address both the seen and the unseen — the things consumers recognize that they want as well as the things they want, but aren’t aware of.

While the impact of the ‘first impression’ is important for a product, lasting fandom is built through a well-considered and optimally delivered CX. Thus, it is very important for designers to consider the intricacies of the CX during the initial development stage. Doing so makes it possible to create innovation that genuinely adds value and enjoyment to users’ daily lives.

Created to strengthen design at LG, the Design Management Center is central to the company’s success in crafting solutions for a better life. The Center also takes the lead on product quality, leveraging its six internal research institutes to determine whether there are any deviations or inconsistencies within a given product line that could detract from or compromise the intended CX.

Over the years, the definition of design has expanded from a single function to a broad scope of activities and initiatives. Companies pursuing innovation tend to prioritize the concept of ‘design thinking,’ which encompasses the discovery and analysis of new problems and the finding of suitable solutions. Not just a useful tool for designers, design thinking is now being employed by various departments at LG to solve a wide range of problems.

LG believes that home appliances should last for a long time and be able to harmonize with a consumer’s living environment and lifestyle. As such, it is essential to the design process to think about the impact or effect an appliance will have on a consumer’s space and daily life. This is why LG endeavors to bring ‘calmness’ to its products — because it has considered and understands that creating a sense of calm can benefit users’ emotional state and well-being. Calm is also associated with ‘warmth,’ an element that has long been a key part of LG’s brand identity.

LG also offers an array of non-hardware products, such as the webOS and ThinQ platforms. In terms of software, ‘good design’ means smoothly integrating customer feedback into each successive version to remedy any pain points and drive greater enjoyment and convenience. Further to this, it is ‘good design’ to analyze the complexity of one’s customers, as this can lead to the targeted improvement of product-consumer interaction, and make any services delivered more convenient (even those that don’t require the customer to control them directly).

Another way that LG is adding convenience to its home appliances is through applying artificial intelligence (AI). Its washer with AI, for example, can consider current weather conditions and advise users in advance when it would be optimal to unload the laundry from the washer. This helpful reminder can prevent clothes from staying in the washer too long after a cycle, especially in hot and humid weather, saving users the hassle — and water and energy costs — of having to rewash them. The ‘intelligence’ that makes AI so useful is built through data gathered from user research, which is often conducted on the design side of product development.

A major area of focus for LG is designing experiences that appeal to Millennials and Generation Z — referred to collectively as Generation MZ in South Korea. One of the challenges of this is that members of ‘MZ’ represent a plethora of characteristics, tastes and ideals. This makes it even more crucial to closely study the different backgrounds and values of MZers, as this can give a brand the insight necessary to relate to younger consumers and meet their continuously evolving needs. By having a comprehensive understanding of new and emerging consumption trends, designers can contribute to the creation of products and services that resonate with Generation MZ.

Another area of emphasis for the Design Management Center is the vehicle component business. Here, it is the Center’s role to help LG’s auto industry clients visualize the possibilities enabled by the vehicle component business’s innovative technologies. Design plays a big role in the business realm, where it is utilized not only to help customers or potential partners comprehend a specific technology, but to illuminate the uses and value of that technology. Also, with new cars released yearly, design plays a significant part in the updating and upgrading of in-vehicle content.

Design that reflects a careful consideration of what consumers want and need will typically enhance a product’s charm, convenience, and the depth and desirability of the CX it offers. LG’s Design Management Center is sincere in bringing the customer’s perspective to the development process. Whether through its devices, platforms or services, LG will continue to offer experiences that provide a sense of comfort and warmth, honoring the trust that it has earned through decades of always putting the customer first.

2023-06-19T11:01:00

(BPT) – Ready to take that long-awaited summer vacay? Before heading out for fun in the sun, make sure you’ll be able to fully relax and enjoy your break by taking a few steps to help keep your home secure — including deliveries that might be made while you’re gone.

Here are some tips and tools to help increase your peace of mind while you’re away from home.

1. Alert your neighbors — but not social media

Before your trip, chat with trusted neighbors to let them know you’ll be on vacation. Those extra eyes on your home can help you feel better about taking off. Just don’t post about your trip on social media — there’s no need to let the world know you’ll be out of your house.

2. Help make your deliveries safe

Instead of worrying about a package arriving while you’re gone, use Amazon Key In-Garage Delivery, a convenient, secure way to receive Amazon packages and groceries. With In-Garage Delivery, drivers scan your package to receive one-time access to deliver inside the garage. No need to give out garage codes or let the driver in yourself. Porch pirates don’t stand a chance and it also helps protect from weather damage, so you can keep any packages secure until you’re home.

Amazon Key is free for Prime members and easy to set up. Plus, it gives you more flexibility and control over your Amazon deliveries by allowing you to select a preferred delivery method and choosing when and where you want your packages delivered — inside your garage or to your doorstep. At checkout, just select In-Garage Delivery and Amazon Key will take care of the rest. You’ll receive real-time notifications every step of the way, and by adding a Ring Camera (sold separately), you can even watch your packages be safely delivered in real-time.

3. Monitor your home while you’re away

You can set up Motion Alerts to notify you when there’s activity at your front door with a Ring Video Doorbell or near one of your Ring security cameras. You’ll be able to see what’s happening in real-time and choose to use Two-Way Talk as needed to chat with someone on your property. For additional whole home protection, the Ring Alarm Security Kit works on any house, condo or apartment. You’ll have peace of mind that your home is always protected, so you can just relax and enjoy whatever you’re doing, wherever you are.

“With services like Amazon Key-In Garage Delivery and the Package Detection feature on Ring Video Doorbells, you can worry less about deliveries going missing while you’re away,” said Paul-David Shrader, Head of Amazon Key for Consumer. “Many customers say just the sight of a video doorbell or camera is enough of a deterrent in getting trespassers to leave their properties.”

4. Set timers for lighting

Another important tactic while vacationing is to use lighting to make it appear someone is home. You can connect smart lights to your home security cameras to have lights turn on/off, or set up light schedules with Alexa to turn lights on and off at certain times each night. Even if you just set one lamp near a front window, it will look like someone is home.

5. Pre-set your HVAC

Completely turning your HVAC off to save money can be a bad idea. Not only will it look like nobody’s home if your AC unit isn’t running while it’s sweltering, but you could also damage internal structures of the house due to excessive humidity. On top of that, your AC unit will have to work non-stop to get the temperature back down when you return, eliminating cost savings you hoped for by shutting it off completely. A good rule of thumb is to raise the temperature about 5 degrees from your usual setting when you leave town. To be able to adjust the temperature while you’re away, consider installing a smart thermostat that you can control remotely.

Following these few simple steps, you can ensure your home and packages will be safe and secure, whether you’re on the road or on the beach.

2023-06-16T07:01:00

(BPT) – Booked summer plans? Check. New bathing suits for the family? Check. Swim lesson enrollment? Priority check!

Water safety is essential, yet many people get confused by misinformation that puts kids at risk. Step Into Swim provides need-to-know information to ensure swimming activities are safe and fun for all involved. The program is led by Rowdy Gaines, three-time Olympic Gold Medalist and Vice President of Partnerships and Development at the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance.

With a passion for creating more swimmers and expanding access to swim education, Gaines wants to keep everyone safer this summer by debunking some of the most widespread myths about water safety.

• Myth: Splashing and screaming are signs of drowning. While 83% of parents who have a child ages 14 or under are confident in their child’s ability to be safe in the water, many parents (60%) incorrectly assume someone who is drowning will draw attention to themselves by splashing and screaming, according to a Step Into Swim survey conducted by The Harris Poll. Drowning is silent, meaning the person won’t scream or splash because they are struggling to breathe. This underscores the importance of swim safety.
• Myth: Drowning takes several minutes to occur. Drowning can happen in seconds, so it’s critical to consistently watch children in the water — even if they know how to swim. Watch kids closely because drowning can happen in the time it takes to send a text message.
• Myth: Parents can teach their kids to swim and lessons aren’t needed. While supporting your child and encouraging water safety is important, teaching kids to swim is best left to trained instructors. Learning to swim from a qualified instructor reduces the drowning risk by 88% among children ages 1 to 4, according to the medical journal Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine. Caregivers can complement the lessons learned from swim instructors by practicing the skills with their children.
• Myth: Floaties and water wings are safe and help kids learn to swim. Parents may think floaties and water wings keep children safe in the water, but they offer a false sense of security. Many children don’t realize that when they remove the water wings, they lose their ability to remain afloat. Two-thirds of parents who have a child ages 14 or under (66%) believe floaties and water wings keep children safe in the water, according to the survey. However, they are not recognized as safe personal flotation devices. Caregivers must keep a constant eye on children in the water to make sure floaties remain on and secure.
• Myth: Dry drowning is a danger. Dry drowning is not a medically accepted term and may be misused to refer to other medical conditions, such as pulmonary edema or laryngospasm. Drowning injury is caused by lack of oxygen and respiratory impairment from submersion in water. It doesn’t refer to the amount of water entering the lungs, according to the American Red Cross. To help avoid drowning, families need to enroll kids in swim lessons and practice supervision.

Water safety steps for everyone

Unfortunately, drowning is the leading cause of unintentional death in children ages 1 to 4, and the second leading cause for children ages 5 to 14, according to the CDC. Before jumping into the water, follow these best practices to help keep children safe.

• Enroll your child in swimming lessons. Parents have a responsibility to keep kids safe in the water.
• Keep toys away from water when not in use. These can be distractions for children, who may overreach and accidentally fall in the water.
• Designate a water watcher to keep a close eye on children and put the cell phones down.
• Only practice safe behaviors, such as entering the pool feet first and walking instead of running.
• Avoid breath-holding activities.
• Learn CPR and keep your skills fresh with ongoing training.
• Keep kids hydrated and take frequent breaks from the sun to limit heat exposure.
• If you have a pool, use multiple layers of protection, such as pool covers, fencing and locked doors.

Learning to swim is a lifesaving skill that empowers children to be confident in the water. For more resources and information, visit StepIntoSwim.org.