Category: Brandpoint Lifestyle

2025-11-19T14:31:00

(BPT) – Hosting a holiday meal for friends and family can be stressful, but it doesn’t have to be. You can impress your guests and still enjoy your gathering without breaking a sweat (or the budget). All you need to do is follow these four expert tips to simplify prep and cleanup, so you can join your loved ones in celebrating the season.

Create a festive, inviting party setting

Your home decor can set the vibe for the party and a few simple festive touches can make guests feel at home. Pick a color scheme that fits your space and the tone you want for the party. For example, metallics, like a mix of gold, silver and cream, can give you a luxurious, modern look, while soft neutrals can create a sense of coziness and relaxation.

Layer your table to add warmth and interest. Try a textured table runner or tablecloth, some on-theme napkins, and a festive centerpiece such as a mix of florals and pinecones. Placing a few candles around your home and adding some greenery goes a long way to make your home feel even more warm and inviting.

And it’s the little things that add another level of special — think fun and festive glassware, decorative name cards, or even a sprig of greenery tied around your napkins.

Pro tip: Set your table the night before so that day-of, you can relax with your guests.

Prep ingredients ahead of time for stress-free prep

You may be cooking the holiday meal, but that doesn’t mean you have to spend the whole day in the kitchen. Consider prepping ingredients ahead of time to cut back on day-of cooking stress.

Cut, chop or slice vegetables, fruits and other produce ahead of time and store them in Hefty food storage bags. Similarly, you can combine veggies or meats with a marinade in a bag, seal and refrigerate until you’re ready to cook the dish the next day.

The next time you’re at the store, pick up a couple of boxes of Hefty Press to Close Gallon Storage Bags. These press-to-close storage bags feature a secure double zipper that snaps closed, so you can hear that your food has been securely sealed. Thanks to the bag’s expandable bottom, you can easily fill it with your prepped items. The next day, all you have to do is take it out of the refrigerator and dump it into a pan, pot or slow cooker.

To plan even further ahead of time, try Hefty Press to Close Gallon Freezer Bags, to prep ingredients or meals days in advance — leaving the day before the party free for details like setting up the decor and last-minute errands, instead of cooking.

Serve your holiday meal buffet style

Instead of portioning food onto every dish or placing food on the table, set up a separate table in the dining area, so guests can serve themselves. A buffet-style setup takes another task off your shoulders, and it gives your guests the power to pick and choose their own food and portions.

Without entrees and sides taking up space on the dining table, you’ll have more space for decorations and elbow room for your guests. When they’re ready for seconds, they can get up and mingle in line.

Send guests home with delicious leftovers

Now that dinner is done, dessert’s been served, and your guests are filing out, send them home with leftovers so they can continue to enjoy the holiday meal at home. This tip saves you cleanup time and space in your fridge and freezer.

Don’t worry about getting your food containers back. Instead, leave out food storage bags, so guests can store their own portions of their favorite dishes from the night.

For desserts like cookies or candies, offer your guests Hefty Press to Close Extra Large Sandwich Bags. For the main dishes and sides, make sure to leave out Hefty Gallon Storage and Freezer bags that have the strength and durability to safely store and transport larger portions.

Pro tip: Leave out markers for guests to write their names and what food is in the bag. You can even provide holiday-themed stickers or labels for a seasonal touch.

Host smarter, not harder

This holiday season, don’t just host, use these tips to host like a pro, wow your guests and enjoy the holidays.

Be sure to check out Hefty Press to Close Storage Bags at your nearest Walmart and at Walmart.com.

2025-11-19T11:01:00

(BPT) – Looking for ways to sweeten the holidays with special gifts, treats for gatherings and tasty recipes to bake together? You’ll love creating magical holiday moments with help from Chocolove, makers of high-quality, European-style premium chocolate crafted to surprise and delight with every bite.

For this year’s holiday offerings, enjoy a range of tantalizing flavors to make every occasion more joyful.

Tree-shaped bites

Chocolove’s indulgent, individually wrapped bites in festive tree shapes are back for a limited time in classic seasonal flavors, and two new flavors! Packaged in elegant, stand-up bags (both small and large), they are perfect for stuffing stockings or gifting to teachers and party hosts:

• Dark Chocolate with Peppermint Creme Filling — A cherished holiday flavor profile, vegan-friendly Peppermint Creme bites made with refreshing peppermint oil and luxurious dark chocolate.
• Dark Chocolate with Marzipan Filling — A modern twist on a European classic and inspired by holiday traditions, rich premium dark chocolate and silky almond-forward marzipan combine for a melt-in-your-mouth bite worth savoring.
• Milk Chocolate with Peanut Butter Filling — An elevated spin on a classic flavor pairing: Smooth premium milk chocolate and lightly salted peanut butter create a luscious, sweet-salty balance in every bite.
• Milk Chocolate with Hazelnut Truffle Filling — Fresh ground California hazelnuts combine with Belgian milk chocolate and a hint of sea salt to make a silky truffle filling inside a delicious milk chocolate shell.

Find the bites on shelves at Whole Foods, Target (new), Walmart (new), Walgreen’s (new), CVS (new), Albertson’s, Sprouts, Harris Teeter, Hy-Vee, Raley’s, Chocolove.com and more.

Elevated gift boxes to share and savor

These elegant, gourmet offerings handmade by Master Chocolatier Chef Patrick Peeters are gift options for everyone on your “nice” list (including yourself!). Find them exclusively on Chocolove.com:

• Cozy Holiday Moments Chocolate Gift Box — Experience the magic of sipping your favorite warm beverages in this assortment of 12 handcrafted truffles. Milk and dark chocolates are filled with Peppermint Mocha, Apple Cider, Hot Cocoa & Marshmallows and Assam Chai Tea flavors.
• European Connoisseurs Collection Gift Box — Elevate your celebrations with this elegant collection of 12 decadent chocolates inspired by European holiday flavors. Dark, milk and white chocolates feature Coconut & Almond Marzipan, Eggnog Ganache & Gingersnap Cookie, Orange Florentine Ganache and Mincemeat & Almond Streusel Cookie flavors.
• Peppermint Bark Assortment Gift Box — Immerse your senses in a refreshing zest of peppermint with luxurious double-layered bark, boasting a rich dark chocolate bottom with velvety white chocolate top adorned with crunchy peppermint candy pieces.
• Luxe Layers Collection — Whether you’re feeling dazzling or dramatic, find your flavor match with these two limited-edition gourmet bar creations: elegant and vibrant Ruby Chocolate with Mango Passionfruit and Feuilletine, and creamy and crisp Dubai-Style Dark Chocolate with Pistachio.

Bake your way to holiday happiness

Love baking decadent treats with family and friends? Indulge in the festive flavors of this Dark Chocolate Peppermint Bar recipe featuring creamy peppermint frosting that perfectly balances the bold intensity of dark chocolate brownies. These are as easy to make as they are to enjoy.

Ingredients

Dark chocolate brownies

• 2 bars Chocolove Strong Dark Chocolate
• 1/2 cup butter, cubed
• 1/2 teaspoon fine salt
• 1 1/2 teaspoons espresso powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 3/4 cup light brown sugar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour

Peppermint cream topping

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 ounces cream cheese (brick style), softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• 2-3 tablespoons whole milk
• 9-16 Chocolove Dark Chocolate Peppermint Creme Trees

Preparations:

• Grease 8×8-inch square baking pan and line with parchment paper, allowing the paper to hang over each side. Set aside.
• Preheat oven to 350F.

Make the brownie batter

• Pour batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top.
• Break apart chocolate bars and place in a heat-safe bowl along with the cubed butter and salt.
• Place the bowl over a pot with about 1 inch of simmering water, stirring occasionally until melted and smooth.
• Remove from heat and stir in espresso powder and vanilla extract. Set aside.
• In a large mixing bowl, vigorously whisk the eggs and sugars together until sugars have dissolved (about 1.5-2 minutes).
• Pour chocolate mixture into the bowl and whisk to combine (the chocolate should be warm but not hot).
• Add flour and gently fold together with a rubber spatula.

Bake the brownies:

• Bake on the center rack of the oven 22-27 minutes.
• Allow to fully cool in pan before carefully removing with the parchment paper.

Make the peppermint cream:

• Whip the butter and cream cheese together with a hand mixer or stand mixer until completely smooth.
• Add half the powdered sugar along with the peppermint extract, vanilla extract and salt. Mix until smooth and incorporated.
• Add the other half of the powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons of milk. Mix again until smooth and fluffy.
• Add an additional tablespoon of milk if the mixture is still too thick and add a little additional powdered sugar if the mixture is too thin.

Frost/garnish the brownies:

• Pipe or spread the peppermint cream frosting on the brownies.
• Top each brownie with a Chocolove Dark Chocolate Peppermint Creme Tree.

Find plenty of delicious treats to help you create moments of joy at Chocolove.com.

2025-11-18T07:25:00

(BPT) – ‘Tis the season to be jolly! Or at least it should be. It can be challenging to balance hosting and attending holiday and football season get-togethers with friends and family with the chaos of holiday shopping and year-end obligations. These seasonal stressors can easily lead to a common problem: nighttime teeth grinding (also known as bruxism).

Silent night? Not so much

While it may seem to go against the spirit of the season, the holidays can bring as much stress as they do joy. In fact, an American Psychological Association study found that 41% of U.S. adults say that their stress levels increase during the holiday season compared to other points in the year.

Spending money, finding the right gifts or simply having too much to do during the holiday season can increase stress, which can lead to teeth grinding. Even if you don’t notice that you grind your teeth during the day, it’s very possible you’re grinding away on what’s supposed to be a silent night.

Teeth grinding has become more common over the past few years. According to a 2021 survey by the American Dental Association’s Health Policy Institute, over 70% of dentists noticed signs of teeth grinding and clenching in their patients, an increase of nearly 10% over the previous year.

Grinding your teeth may not initially sound like a bad habit, but it can wreak havoc on your smile and dampen your holiday spirit. Habitual teeth grinding can damage your teeth or jaws, and cause tension headaches along with face and jaw pain.

Stop grinding and start celebrating

How can you protect your smile from the nightly grind so you can spread the holiday cheer? If you know or suspect you’re grinding your teeth at night, consider protecting your smile with a mouth guard like the DenTek Professional Fit mouth guard.

DenTek’s Professional Fit dental guard offers dual-layer, full-coverage protection. The soft, cushioned upper layer molds to the shape of your teeth for a secure comfort fit. At the same time, the protective bottom layer has a strong grind shield layer to prevent bite-through.

You don’t have to book an appointment at the dentist to fit your mouth guard. Molding your DenTek mouth guard is as easy as 1,2,3. All you need to do is heat, shape and wear your mouth guard at night so you can enjoy the holiday season during the day.

Keep the grind at bay all year long

This holiday season, enjoy the festivities and invest in your dental health. Pick up a mouth guard for yourself and consider adding a few more to your cart as stocking stuffers for your friends and family.

Even after the holiday season is over, your mouth guard can continue to protect your teeth year-round from other grind-inducing stress. So, whether you’re concerned about how your favorite college and pro football teams will perform this season or worried about the list of 2026 to-dos, your teeth are covered.

To learn more, visit DenTek.com and head to your local Walmart to find a mouth guard of your own. Happy holidays!

2025-11-17T07:01:00

(BPT) – In grocery aisles crowded with golden hues and vague claims, Busy Bee Raw Honey delivers on a bold promise: delicious, raw, unfiltered honey with full transparency from hive to home.

There are common misnomers in the industry — with honey, “pure” and “local” may not mean what shoppers think it does. In fact, some honeys with those labels are actually blends of multiple sources, often impossible to trace and sometimes adulterated with additives. With Busy Bee Raw Honey every drop of sweetness is sourced entirely from the U.S.A., and tested for safety, quality and three times for purity.

The best part of each squeezable bottle is discovering the full journey of your honey. Each bottle features a peel-away back label that reveals a unique Real Honey Code along with your honey’s fast facts, including when it was made, the hive locations and the flowers foraged. The innovative Real Honey Code allows customers to visit the website and trace their honey from hive to home, featuring mapped hive locations, harvesting and packaging, all completed with a focus on keeping food miles low and producing high-quality, sustainable raw honey.

Packaged by Barkman Honey, Busy Bee Raw Honey carries on a century-long legacy of transparency, ethical beekeeping and high industry standards. The story began in the 1920s when Esra Barkman developed a deep respect for bees and a commitment to honest, sustainable beekeeping. His passion later inspired the founding of Barkman Honey in the 1950s. Still family-owned and operated, the company continues to source honey from its own apiaries and trusted beekeeping partners, ensuring caring practices and delivering pure, sustainable honey from hive to home.

Building on that commitment, Busy Bee Raw Honey’s new signature blue label and Real Honey Code go beyond packaging. They represent a promise of transparency, traceability and uncompromising quality.

2025-11-17T20:01:00

(BPT) – Does your customer experience meet your customers’ expectations? According to PwC, it probably doesn’t, as 54% of U.S. consumers believe the customer experience at most companies needs improvement. The stakes couldn’t be higher because this same study also found that 32% of consumers will walk away from a brand they love after just one bad experience.

So, what’s the secret to keeping people happy when they visit your business? Welcoming, comfortable, helpful environments.

The setting.

While many errands can be completed online these days, consumers still have to visit brick-and-mortar locations on occasion, and this can be a frustrating experience. According to a Waitwhile survey, Americans spend an estimated 37 billion hours each year waiting, whether it be in line at the bank, sitting in the hair salon or waiting at the doctor’s office.

If you know your customers are going to wait, ensure they’ll be comfortable when they walk into your business. Cluttered, cold or rigid furnishings can negatively impact individuals’ mental health. In businesses such as medical or legal offices, this could exacerbate stress in visitors who are already in heightened states of agitation.

What to do: Set the right tone for your visitors by outfitting your reception area with high-quality furnishings from companies such as Steelcase that are functional, comfortable and reinforce how visitors should feel.

The amenities.

According to Deloitte, brands that excel at tailoring and personalizing customer experiences are 71% more likely to achieve stronger loyalty. So when your customers visit, be sure to appeal to their preferences.

What to do: Make sure you are providing snacks and beverages that are tailored to today’s changing tastes. For example, 60% of Gen Z adults prefer iced coffee. That’s why many companies are turning to Peel & Pour Pods by Java House to offer visitors a quick, convenient way to customize their favorite beverages, from barista-quality cold brew coffee and tea to hydration drinks and hot chocolate.

The service.

As PwC shares, “The employee experience is the cornerstone” of customer service. Human interaction matters more than ever, because even though AI and technology provide the convenience people request, 82% of U.S. and 74% of non-U.S. consumers still want to work with a real person.

What to do: For companies seeking to enhance their check-in efficiencies, consider kiosks like those by Meridian, which can be adopted across multiple industries. However, efficient technology can’t stand alone. Ensure a human is nearby to welcome visitors and assist with navigating the technology if needed.

No matter the location, customer experience is only as good as the service provided. Elevate your visitor experience to create happy customers with a welcoming and comfortable environment, quality amenities, and convenient, accommodating service.

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.