Category: Brandpoint Lifestyle

2022-12-22T13:11:00

(BPT) – Love to entertain, but never too sure about the best options to delight and satisfy your dinner guests? Here is an easy guide, courtesy of Organic Prairie — an independent co-op of organic family farms — to help you pick the perfect cuts of steak to prepare, and which ones are best suited for exactly the kind of gathering you’re planning — using the highest quality organic meat.

1. For an intimate gathering

If you’ve invited one other couple or just a friend or two over for a holiday dinner, tender, melt-in-your-mouth Filet Mignon is the perfect choice. It’s delicious and elegant, and you can serve each person their own filet, so everyone can choose exactly how they want their meat cooked. A little herbed butter is all you need to bring out the best flavor of this cut!

This type of steak usually steals the show, so you can prepare a simple side or two to accompany this dish. One suggestion is to warm up a crusty baguette and toss a festive salad with a few garnishes like toasted nuts, plus pomegranate arils, mandarin oranges or dried cranberries for a colorful, seasonal touch.

2. Now it’s a party

For a larger dinner party, such as 8–10 people, Ribeye Steaks are a great option to serve. Because this cut of meat has a higher fat content, ribeye steaks tend to have a little more flavor and can be easily seasoned using salt and pepper. Just be sure to rest the meat for about five minutes after cooking, so the steaks will retain their flavorful juices when you’re ready to serve. These steaks are easy to prepare and will be sure to impress with their rich flavor!

3. A New York state of mind

Similar to the ribeye, Premium New York Strip Steaks are a fantastic option to satisfy larger gatherings of 8–10 people, it just depends on which cut of meat you prefer. A New York Strip is a leaner cut of meat with less fat, and can be a bit tougher in texture than Ribeye. However, strip steaks are a delicious and popular cut of meat that pair well with sides such as baked potatoes and green salad for a classic meal everyone will love!

Pro tip: If you want to up your steak game, strip steaks are a great choice if you want to grill. Snow grilling, anyone? Firing up the grill — even in the winter — will bring a little extra “wow” to your next dinner party.

4. Steak for appetizers? Yes, please!

If you have a larger crowd and are looking for hearty and tasty appetizers for your next holiday gathering, Tenderloin Steak Tips are an easy, bite-sized offering to prepare. You can even use them to create steak kabobs: Alternate steak tips on skewers with colorful veggies — onions, bell peppers, Brussels sprouts and even pineapple! — to delight your guests.

Or you can slice up top sirloin steaks to make this delicious and easy recipe:

Garlic Steak Crostini

Servings: 20 pieces. Prep time: 25 minutes. Cook time: 15 minutes.

Ingredients

16 ounces Organic Prairie Top Sirloin Steaks
Juice of 1 lemon
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
1 to 2 baguettes, depending on size
4 tablespoons Organic Valley Salted Butter, softened
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons organic extra virgin olive oil
Sea salt
Black pepper
1/2 cup spinach leaves
2 ounces Organic Valley Blue Cheese Crumbles
Chives, diced

Directions

1. Pat steak dry with a paper towel and add to a shallow dish.
2. In small bowl, add lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce, and mix together. Pour over the top of the steaks.
3. Let rest for 15-20 minutes, until steaks are at room temperature.
4. Preheat oven to 425 degrees F.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Cut baguette into 1/2-inch slices on a diagonal. You’ll need 20 pieces total. Place on the prepared baking sheet.
7. In small bowl, add butter and garlic and stir to combine completely. Using butter knife, spread garlic butter onto each piece of bread and place back on baking sheet.
8. Heat olive oil in cast iron skillet over high heat.
9. Generously salt and pepper the steaks on each side.
10. Cook steaks in skillet about 2 minutes each side, searing them until brown on each side and red in the middle. Immediately transfer the skillet to the oven and bake 6-8 minutes, until the steak is 130-140 F for medium-rare (or cooked to your liking).
11. Add garlic bread to the oven and bake 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.
12. Remove steak from oven and let rest 5 minutes before cutting. Slice steak into 1/2-inch-thick strips.
13. Place 1-2 spinach leaves on top of garlic bread, add steak strip on top, top with crumbled blue cheese and chopped chives. Serve immediately.

5. For a fancier occasion

Finally, if you’re serving steak for a celebration — like a New Year’s Eve dinner — Beef Tenderloin Steak is known as one of the most tender cuts of beef, perfect for a fancier occasion. This juicy and flavorful steak lends well to pan searing and finishing in the oven. Pro tip: Plan on 6–8 ounces of meat per person when you’re planning to serve up steak as the main course. Depending on the number of sides, you can adjust the amount of steak per person. Serve with roasted vegetables, winter squash and comforting mashed or scalloped potatoes for a hearty celebration at year’s end.

Looking for recipe ideas and flavorful organic products to serve at your next party? Visit OrganicPrairie.com.

2022-12-22T15:57:00

(BPT) – Sal Ciresi (left) and his wife Carol at Arches National Park in Utah*

As an anesthetist, Sal Ciresi spends his days in and out of the operating room and is unable to take breaks during procedures that can last hours. When urges of frequent urination began interfering with his work, he tried crossing his legs and limiting his water intake so he wouldn’t have to go as often.

Away from the operating room, Sal found himself strategizing about how far he could be from a bathroom at social events or while traveling with his grandkids. After more than three years with these symptoms of an enlarged prostate – also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) – the condition became unbearable and nearly prevented him from doing his work.

The prostate is a walnut-sized gland in the male pelvis and surrounding urethra.^[2] As men age, the prostate can grow from the size of a walnut to about the size of a lemon.^[1] An enlarged prostate becomes very common as men age and affects 50% of men by age 60.¹ While non-cancerous, the condition can cause frustrating symptoms such as waking up several times a night to urinate, a weak or interrupted stream, feeling a sudden urge to go and lack of control over urination – which can disrupt daily activities.^[3]

“I was in denial about my condition,” recalled Sal. “As someone who works in health care, I knew that treating an enlarged prostate could be an invasive process with treatment-associated risks. While I was eager to find relief, I wanted to avoid the risks of surgery.”

The best treatment option for each patient with enlarged prostate may depend on a range of factors, including the amount of discomfort, age, health, the size of the prostate and post-procedure expectations.^[3] After receiving a diagnosis, Sal tried medication first for his symptoms but began experiencing side effects.^[4] One day, he heard a radio commercial for Rezūm™ Water Vapor Therapy, a minimally invasive procedure to treat an enlarged prostate, not just the symptoms.^[5] The in-office procedure uses water vapor to reduce the size of the prostate and provides lasting symptom relief, while preserving sexual function.^[6] The procedure typically takes place during one doctor’s office visit and does not require general anesthesia.^[6]

Sal scheduled a follow up appointment with his urologist, who evaluated him for Rezūm Therapy. Two weeks later, he had the minimally invasive procedure. Within a few weeks, Sal’s symptoms were finally under control.

“After trying medication without relief, I was excited about trying a different option with the Rezūm procedure,” said Sal. “While it was more involved than just taking a pill, I found the relief I was looking for and got rid of many of the daily limitations I was living with.”**

These days, Sal finds he is living a life where he feels more in control, without being on the constant search for a restroom or places to stop when traveling. To learn more about the symptoms of BPH and to speak with a doctor in your area about treatment options, including Rezūm Water Vapor Therapy, visit www.Rezum.com.

Most patients report relatively minor discomfort during the procedure. As a minimally invasive procedure, Rezūm Therapy has demonstrated fewer side effects compared to those typically seen with surgical therapies. While all cases are different, potential side effects associated with Rezūm Water Vapor Therapy may include, but are not limited to, painful or frequent urination, blood in the urine or semen, decrease in ejaculatory volume, urinary tract infection (UTI), inability to urinate or completely empty the bladder and urgent need to urinate. These side effects are typically mild to moderate and usually resolve within a few weeks, but there is a possibility some of these effects may continue for longer periods of time. Please talk with your doctor about the risks and benefits associated with Rezūm Therapy. A complete list of side effects associated with Rezūm Water Vapor Therapy is available here: https://www.rezum.com/what-is-rezum/risks.html.

Results from case studies are not necessarily predictive of results in other cases. Results in other cases may vary.

2022-12-22T08:01:00

(BPT) – From the paint on your front door to the pillows on your porch swing, your home’s exterior provides a canvas for colorfully expressing your style. But a big opportunity to leverage the power of color is often overlooked. Representing as much as 40% or even more of a home’s exterior, your home’s roof not only protects against the elements but can serve as a defining design element—particularly when color is considered.¹

Today’s shingle colors go well beyond conventional shades of gray, brown and black. For example, new color palettes in the Owens Corning TruDefinition^® Duration^® Designer Shingle range include a rich, sensory blend of hues evoking nature’s elements, food and libations, and textiles ranging from leather to metallics. Paired with other exterior elements like paint, siding, landscaping and lighting, roof shingles can pull together a vibe reflecting diverse personal styles.

A good example of this versatility can be seen in Midnight Plum, the 2023 Shingle Color of the Year. Inviting and intriguing, the shingle blends inky blues with regal violet shades and elegant touches of silver to achieve a hue that is distinctive yet versatile. Before you say, “my home’s roof can’t do purple,” let’s look at three examples of how Midnight Plum complements different exterior styles.

Modern Farmhouse. A curated style board available at OwensCorning.com reinvents the familiarity of Farmhouse style. The design board sets shades of charcoals against a rolling green landscape, bringing an element of edginess to traditional design. A subtle hint of lilac softens the look and enhances the violet undertones in the shingle.

Traditional. Like coming home, the traditional style feels classic and welcoming. Set against the airy brightness of a pop of coral, Midnight Plum’s elegant purple tones bring an optimistic blush to the exterior. Combining clean, time-honored shades of blue and gray, Midnight Plum brings a current day accent to a look firmly grounded in tradition. Homeowners can find more ideas to inspire their own take on traditional style with a curated style board for traditional homes on the Owens Corning site.

California Bungalow. Location doesn’t limit this look named for the American Craftsman style that was nearly exclusive to California in the 1920s and ‘30s. The sloping roof of the bungalow provides a ready canvas for Midnight Plum to bring a cozy contrast to mellow neutrals and sweet purples. An inspiring style board shows how Midnight Plum complements the stone, tile and landscaping that make the California Bungalow style both elegant and homey.

Along with curated style boards, Owens Corning offers other color tools to help inspire your home’s exterior. For example, the Design EyeQ^® visualization software allows you to upload a picture of your home and virtually “try on” new roof colors. And calling 1-800-GET-PINK allows you to order free color pairing brochures.

Spotlighting Style

While your home’s roof is an ideal focal point for a color refresh, other elements also support beautiful exteriors. Light fixtures, landscaping and even the color of your porch furniture can all complement a home’s style. Similar to fashion, exterior color trends are always evolving. With versatility in mind, Owens Corning shingles are infused with a dimensional blend of colors to coordinate easily with exterior updates.

While fashion and design trends can come and go, the ultimate vote of confidence when it comes to a home’s style comes from homeowners. Since 2018, Owens Corning has been awarded the Women’s Choice Award^®, as America’s most recommended roofing material brand.

Explore and get inspired by a range of shingle and color pairings at www.roofingfashioncolors.com.

¹ Roofing & Home Value Research, online survey of female homeowners and real estate professionals conducted by Repass Research, October 31 thru November 9, 2016.

2022-12-22T09:01:00

(BPT) – From younger drivers blasting music, to older drivers with their hands on “ten” and “two,” it’s no secret that with each new generation comes a shift in values, beliefs and opinions. Those generational differences shape everything from travel plans to spending habits.

With Gen Z being the latest generation to be of driving age, recent data from Hankook Tire reveals how different generations of drivers simply do things differently. Here is a look at four differences between younger drivers and those who have some miles behind them.

1. Younger generations steer toward saving a dollar or two.

High prices have younger drivers seeking opportunities to lower car care costs, even if that means doing some of the work themselves. Nearly half of Millennials and Gen Z said they would conduct vehicle maintenance themselves (48%) or switch service locations (45%) in order to save money.

In fact, Hankook found that Millennials are most likely to perform their own car maintenance to save money, whereas Boomers are least likely to do so. Older generations would rather take their cars into repair shops, regardless of cost.

2. Almost everyone will go the distance to save money on gas.

With the high cost of gas, 86% of people in the survey said they would be willing to drive up to 20 minutes to save at the pump. And though many surveys show that overall, younger generations drive less than older generations, they will drive further to save the extra buck. According to Hankook, about 1 in 5 Gen Z drivers (21%) and Millennial drivers (19%) are willing to drive more than 20 minutes to save on gas.

In addition to going the extra mile for gas, 11% of Gen Z responders and 18% of Millennials will turn to public transportation, walking, biking or ride share apps to save on driving costs.

3. EVs are the way of the future.

With gas prices top of mind, another difference between generations is how they feel about EVs and how likely they are to purchase one. While nearly half (46%) of Americans expect to purchase or lease an EV within the next five years, intent is even higher among Millennials (60%) and Gen X (44%) drivers. Only 30% of Boomers noted the same.

4. Younger generations are most likely to road trip.

While post-pandemic travel intent continues to trend upwards overall, there are still some generational differences in who is packing their bags — especially around the holidays. Hankook’s latest survey found 44% of Millennials plan to travel by car before the end of the year, compared to 29% of Boomers.

Part of the reason for less holiday travel could also be financially motivated — Deloitte’s research reveals older generations are shying away from travel in order to save money. In fact, 37% of those surveyed by Deloitte cited financial concerns as their top reason for not traveling this year.

In short, each generation packs different expectations when they get behind the wheel. Regardless of what those may be, it is clear that generational behaviors are going to have an outstanding impact on the road ahead.

2022-12-20T07:01:00

(BPT) – ‘Tis the season for charcuterie boards and holiday hosting — and Snack Factory^® Pretzel Crisps, the connoisseurs of charcuterie, are here to help you be the host with the most!

From butter boards to rainbow boards, and everything in between, Snack Factory^® Pretzel Crisps are at the heart of every charcuterie board trend (charcu-trend, if you will). That’s why this holiday season, the thin, crisp pretzel brand is declaring the next charcu-trend — Dip Boards.

Perfect for every palate and every guest, Dip Boards featuring Snack Factory^® Pretzel Crisps are the most delicious company this holiday season. From Caramelized Onion dip and Pretzel Crisps Sea Salt + Black Pepper, to Spicy Feta and Pretzel Crisps Original, or Hummus and Pretzel Crisps Everything, Pretzel Crisps have never met a dip they can’t pair with.

Check out these five tips to create the perfect Dip Board and elevate your holiday party:

1. Don’t Be Afraid to Mingle: Who says a Dip Board needs to stick to one type of dip? Not us! From spicy to sweet, to sweet and savory, a Dip Board is the perfect opportunity to expand your palate. So, when building your Dip Board, try putting a Tzatziki dip alongside Pretzel Crisps Garlic Parmesan, next to a spicy Three-Cheese Queso with Pretzel Crisps Everything, and artichoke dip with Pretzel Crisps Original.

2. It’s All About the Base: We’ve all been there — indulging in your favorite dip, then bam it spills all over yourself, just when everyone is watching. Make sure to build a strong base for your Dip Board with Snack Factory^® Pretzel Crisps — with a thin salty crunch but still sturdy enough to scoop and spread, they will save you from (most) awkward charcuterie board encounters.

3. Prep for the Restock in Advance: Let’s be honest — the food is the most delicious company at any holiday gathering. As a host, avoid having to constantly restock your Dip Board throughout the evening by preparing for the second — or third — round in advance. Have your extra dips, larger Snack Factory^® Pretzel Crisp Party Size 14oz bags and serving spoons conveniently located near your board so you can quickly restock without a pause in conversation.

4. Let It Shine: The holidays are a time for friends, friends of friends, family, extended family, neighbors and the “who are yous” to gather. Let your Dip Board be a conversation starter by incorporating eye-popping colors, designs (anyone heard of a Dip Board tree?) and unexpected flavors. While it may not start the most riveting conversation, it’s a great way to fill in an awkward silence or two.

5. Perfect Pairings: There’s something magical about everything pairing perfectly. With so many flavor profiles possible on a Dip Board, why not take it up a notch and pair the flavors of your Dip Board with a festive cocktail (or mocktail)? Try a sweet Dip Board pairing chocolate chip cookie dough dip with White Crème Peppermint Pretzel Crisps and a dry glass of Sauvignon Blanc, or a spicy Dip Board with a Mulled Apple Cider for the ultimate taste bud experience.

To get in on the next charcu-trend, Snack Factory^® Pretzel Crisps is unveiling a NEW Extendable Charcuterie Board for a limited-time only — a seven-foot-long board to enjoy all of the festive charcu-trends. For a chance to win the Snack Factory^® Pretzel Crisps Extendable Charcuterie Board, consumers can follow @SnackFactory and tag their next party guests on the post HERE. Full rules and regulations for the sweepstakes can be found here.

2022-12-21T10:01:00

(BPT) – Winter is a great time to take a trip and get away from it all while still enjoying the hallmarks of the season. If you’re looking for a place to relax and indulge yourself, consider Destination Kohler.

Located just two hours from Chicago and within an hour’s driving distance from two Wisconsin-based airports, Kohler, Wisconsin, has much to offer visitors from the Midwest and beyond. Check out seven ways you can enjoy a Midwest winter at Destination Kohler.

1. Five-star, five-diamond lodging

Do you want a beautiful respite from the hustle and bustle of every day with all the amenities? During your visit to Kohler, Wisconsin, stay at the American Club, a five-diamond, five-star resort hotel with storybook charm and deep historical roots tied to the company, the Kohler community and the state of Wisconsin.

At the American Club, you’ll have shuttle service throughout Destination Kohler, access to the Sports Core Health & Racquet Club and, from spring through fall, the ability to book advanced tee times on Whistling Straits and Blackwolf Run. In your room, enjoy morning coffee, afternoon tea, Wi-Fi, video game systems, down comforters and so many more amenities.

2. Relaxing spa experience

Destination Kohler also features an acclaimed spa that offers a complete menu of invigorating and luxurious ways to pamper your body and soul. The Kohler Waters Spa creates a relaxing and rejuvenating experience where guests can discover the natural, restorative power of earth’s mineral-rich waters.

Enjoy innovative hydrotherapy services, nourishing treatments, relaxation pools and curated culinary offerings. Before you head home, head to the spa boutique and continue the experience at home with Kohler Waters Spa products.

3. A variety of dining experiences

No matter what you’re craving, you can indulge in a vast range of culinary experiences at Destination Kohler’s seven restaurants, including the Four Star Immigrant Room, the Wisconsin Room, and the Horse & Plow at the American Club.

Venture beyond the hotel to River Wildlife, where you can enjoy fresh, seasonal Midwestern fare at a rustic log cabin at the edge of a lush hardwood forest. Or take a break from shopping at the Taverne on Woodlake for an imaginative take on comfort and cuisine.

4. Shopping and indulgence

Take a stroll through the Shops at Woodlake, an open-air collection of more than 20 boutique shops at the lake’s edge. Whether you want to pick up a new outfit, find a souvenir to remember your visit or buy a gift for friends back home, you’ll find everything you need at one of these specialty shops.

One of the must-stops at the Shops at Woodlake is Kohler Chocolates, where chocolatiers create their handcrafted chocolates and other delicacies on-site. Visitors can choose from a full menu of coffees and teas, gelatos, a box of their famous Terrapins, one of their other confectionaries, or a bottle of the decadent Kohler brandy infused with Dark Chocolate or Chocolate Mint.

5. Exciting activities

For those who like to stay active during vacation, Kohler’s Winter Wonderland and Sports Core have something for everyone. Take in the beauty of winter while ice skating, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing or fat tire biking. Unleash your inner athlete by playing hockey, curling, tennis and pickleball, as well as indoor swimming, cycling and golfing.

6. Get inspired at the design center

Learn about innovative product design, technology, creative achievement and American history at the Kohler Design Center. This three-level building is open 365 days a year and houses designer rooms filled with inspirational ideas for the kitchen and bath, current and iconic Kohler product designs and a museum that provides a historic snapshot of Kohler’s past.

7. Take in local architecture

Kohler Village was the first planned community in the United States designed by the Olmsted Brothers — known for several notable projects like Central Park in New York City — and later the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation. The village merges remarkable architectural styles that produce an engaging and provocative self-guided, leisurely tour to entertain novices and aficionados alike.

Don’t wait to book your trip and enjoy the winter in a relaxing and inviting destination. To learn more about booking your trip, visit DestinationKohler.com.

2022-12-21T07:01:00

(BPT) – Gifts for the avid home repair enthusiasts, hobbyists or professionals in your life can be challenging to find. Innovative and imaginative, these types are likely up to date on the latest projects and trends and it can seem like they already have everything they want for their home workshop.

Sometimes the best way to get the right gift is to just ask — but if you’re still stuck, here’s a list of popular gifts for the difficult hobbyist on your list.

1. Toolbox + Bluetooth speaker

Your home improvement pro may have all the tools they need, but what about music to keep them going during those long project hours? Or something to keep them organized? How about both? Festool’s TopRock delivers high-performance stereo sound, can charge your smartphone, and holds your tools all in one place. This combination toolbox and Bluetooth speaker helps you conveniently transport your tools and tunes in perfect harmony.

2. Mobile charging station

Professional contractors and home remodelers often rely on their phones to keep track of project details and make calls to keep their schedule running smoothly. A dead device could mean project delays. Protect their progress with the gift of a mobile charging station. Festool’s PHC 18 Mobile Charging Station can transform an 18-volt battery pack into a portable power bank. Its compact design is easy to store in the shop or work van and it can charge up to three smartphones at once.

3. Quick lever clamp

When in doubt, opt for a popular tool known for simplifying many home improvement projects. Festool’s Quick Clamp makes it easy to clamp materials together and then quickly release using only one hand. Plus, they’re reusable from project to project and will last for years to come. Now, that’s a gift that keeps on giving.

4. Cordless dust extractor

A dust collector removes dirt, debris, dust, chemicals and gasses from the air, so you can give the gift of a cleaner work environment. For example, Festool’s Cordless Dust Extractor enables a virtually dust-free work environment without the need for a power outlet. Powered by Bluetooth and remote control, this device offers maximum portability while helping them clean up their shop quickly and efficiently.

5. Two-in-one hammer drill

When in doubt, every handyperson could use a versatile tool that helps them tackle nearly any project. The cordless drill is a necessity in nearly every shop and tool bag. Festool’s TPC 18 Cordless Drill is ideal for drilling holes and driving screws into almost any material — concrete, drywall, brick, etc.

Whether the hobbyist or home improvement pro you love has a shop full of tools or is just starting their collection, there’s always room to add something useful, new and cool. Save these ideas for your next gifting opportunity and find more at festoolusa.com.

2022-12-21T08:01:00

(BPT) – Flu season is here*¹, and while many believe the flu isn’t serious, especially if they consider themselves “healthy,” it can sometimes be fatal.²

That’s a fact that Angie Wehrkamp and her family know all too well — in 2015, she lost her otherwise healthy daughter, Gianna, to the flu. That year, everyone else in her family received their flu vaccination through work or school. “I had every intention to also get Gianna vaccinated, like we did for her brother, but it just fell off the radar for us as busy parents,” Wehrkamp recalls.

“My son and daughter had an unparalleled bond. Gianna was a feisty and fearless 2-year-old who commanded every room she walked into. She was also her brother’s biggest fan at all his sporting events.”

When Gianna first became sick, it was mild, and she just felt a little warm. But the next morning when Gianna’s breathing didn’t sound right, Wehrkamp took her to their family doctor to get her checked out. Her daughter was diagnosed with the flu, prescribed an antiviral medication, and sent home with instructions for Gianna to rest.

When they first brought her home, despite running a low-grade fever and her lungs sounding rattly, Gianna overall seemed fine, relaxing and watching cartoons all day. “I took her to bed with me that night, so I could keep a close eye on her,” said Wehrkamp. “When I woke up around 2 a.m., I discovered that she was not breathing.”

In less than 48 hours of presenting with a mild fever, Gianna passed away at the age of 2.

After losing her daughter, Wehrkamp wanted to do something to help spread awareness and help prevent other families from going through what she did, joining the nonprofit group, Families Fighting Flu.

“I love working with Families Fighting Flu because it allows me to honor Gianna’s memory,” said Wehrkamp. “By sharing our family’s story, we are helping to prevent others from having to go through the grief that we struggle with every day.”

“Not getting my daughter vaccinated will forever be my biggest regret in life,” said Wehrkamp. “Every year we now prioritize our family getting our flu vaccinations.”

Arming yourself with the information to help protect your family

Wehrkamp’s story shows how devastating the flu can be to a family. Influenza (flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat and lungs. Some people, such as people 65 years and older, young children and people with certain health conditions, are at higher risk of serious flu complications.² According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the best way to protect against the flu is for everyone six months of age and older to get vaccinated annually.²

Additionally, the CDC recommends that pregnant people receive a flu vaccination during flu season, which can be given any time during pregnancy.¹ Mothers in their third trimester can also be vaccinated for the season as soon as flu vaccination is available, in order to help protect their newborn infants during their first months of life during flu season.¹

Don’t wait for another reminder; plan to talk to your family’s doctor or pharmacist about vaccination. It’s not too late! To learn more about how you can help protect your family from the flu, visit FluisaFamilyAffair.com.

*According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), flu most commonly peaks in February, and significant activity can continue into May.¹

References:

1. CDC. Frequently Asked Influenza (Flu) Questions: 2022-2023 Season. Reviewed November 21, 2022. Accessed December 13, 2022. https://www.cdc.gov/flu/season/faq-flu-season-2022-2023.htm
2. CDC. Key Facts about Influenza (Flu). Reviewed October 24, 2022. Accessed December 13, 2022. https://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/keyfacts.htm.

2022-12-20T10:01:00

(BPT) – You depend on a few drivers to keep your small business thriving. You trust your drivers, but you’re realistic. You know the road poses risks, especially in the form of distracted drivers. You worry that one accident could impact your business, not to mention potentially injuring an employee.

You can train, establish guidelines, and incentivize employees to drive safely, but you can’t do anything to influence the actions of other drivers on the road. The majority of American adults own a smartphone, which is a common driving distraction, even when laws regulate their usage while driving. This means that even if your drivers aren’t distracted, there are likely other drivers on the road who are.

More than three-fourths of small-business decision-makers consider smartphone use on the road by other drivers to be a threat to their drivers, according to a recent survey by Netradyne, maker of artificial intelligence (AI) fleet safety camera systems. Additionally, over 3 in 5 attest that losing just one vehicle in their fleet would be financially devastating for their business.

Of course, mobile phone use is just one potential cause of reckless driving. Speeding, aggressiveness, and driving under the influence are other examples. There are other inherent driving risks to consider also, such as inclement weather, and just because Mother Nature is having a bad day doesn’t mean your business can take time off.

Commercial drivers themselves may engage in risky driving behaviors as well, sometimes without even realizing it. Many small-business owners are looking for technology to help their drivers on the road, including coaching them to use better practices. In fact, 91% of decision-makers think their fleet would benefit from an AI safety solution that can assess speed, traffic sign compliance, and distracted driving while alerting drivers of risky driving behavior with real-time positive driving notifications.

Accident prevention is ideal, and technology protects your drivers and your business. However, technology offers real-time video proof of what happened if an accident occurs.

Even if you only have one driver, it’s worthwhile to consider investing in a technology safety solution to protect your employees, your vehicles, and your business’s bottom line. Here are the top reasons for implementing AI safety solutions:

Connection: Cameras and apps let you see what’s going on every second of every mile, while technology analyzes risk 100% of the driving time.

Lower risks: Decrease the frequency and severity of accidents with in-cab alerts that help the driver stay aware of everything happening on the road.

Video evidence: If an incident occurs, you can access and review critical video footage to protect and exonerate your drivers.

Driver coaching: Use videos and digital tools to positively train and coach drivers to keep them safe while continuously improving driving behavior.

Positive culture: Use safe driver feedback from the technology to reward positive driving behavior from employees so that you can focus on positive reinforcement rather than punitive actions.

Theft prevention: Capture video when motion is detected to identify thieves and hit-and-runs.

Research shows AI safety solutions for fleets help reduce moving violations by up to 90%, cut costly fines, decrease fuel usage by up to 30% and avoid unfair verdicts or settlements, which average $367,757.

To learn more about the most advanced AI safety technology solutions for drivers and what works best for businesses of all shapes and sizes, visit netradyne.com/fleetsafety.

2022-12-20T11:31:00

(BPT) – With rising out-of-pocket medication costs and difficulty navigating prescription pricing options, many Americans are cutting corners on their health and prescription adherence.

An estimated 18 million people — 72% of U.S. adults — reported they could not pay for at least one doctor-prescribed medication for their household during the prior three months, according to a West Health and Gallup survey. But neglecting to fill a medication as prescribed can be dangerous to one’s health and wellness.

A next-generation prescription savings app and website, Cuverd™ (pronounced “covered”) empowers people to search for all their Rx savings options. Through the app, insured patients can now understand their medication coverage, estimated copay, and additional eligible savings to reduce their copays.

Cuverd also compares the user’s copay to the lowest cash discount price for their medication to automate the lowest out-of-pocket costs. Uninsured, high-deductible insured, or Medicare-insured patients can also find the lowest cash discount price for their medications.

People are often unaware of their prescription’s price until they get to the pharmacy. If the cost is out of their budget, they may leave without the necessary medication. For others, if they choose to purchase their medicine, they may decide to skip days or take less than prescribed to make it last longer. Price can also be difficult for the 90% of Americans with health insurance — high copays and deductibles keep prescription drug costs out of reach for many.

So how can you lower your prescription drug costs and keep your family on all their needed medications?

The experts at Cuverd have these tips to help you save money on your prescriptions:

1. Use digital tools in the exam room.

Cuverd is the first prescription savings platform that lets you look up insurance coverage and estimated copays right when a new medication is prescribed. The app is free to download and use, navigating all savings options in real-time to deliver the lowest “out-of-pocket” price per medication for users.

Within seconds of entering your information, the mobile app factors in many variables, including medication coverage across 7,000 employers and health plans; estimated copays; eligibility for additional copay savings and other programs; and comparisons to “cash” prices from leading discount card partners.

2. Talk to your healthcare providers.

Cuverd also provides information on less expensive medication alternatives for patients to discuss with their health care providers if the prescribed medication is not covered. This can help ease the important step of discussing prescription medication costs in the medical office with your healthcare team. Inquire about your options for lowering your costs, including generic prescriptions and other alternatives.

Remember, you are not alone if you struggle with this topic, so don’t feel ashamed to ask about your options. Cuverd helps you discover the insurance coverage and cost of your medication before you leave the medical office, so you are not surprised at the pharmacy.

Dr. Gaurav Chaturvedi, internal medicine physician and medical director for a top 10 health care system, has seen the value of using Cuverd during office visits for his patients.

“High costs cause patients to abandon their prescriptions 20-30% of the time and leads to frustration at all levels — for the patient, the health care provider and the pharmacy — and adds more work and time to provide an alternative to the patient,” he said. “Unlike other Rx savings apps that only show cash prices, Cuverd provides insurance coverage and available savings for each medication, or less expensive alternatives, that can help my patients start and stay on their prescribed therapies.”

3. Adhere to prescriptions.

One of the best ways to save on prescriptions, prevent medical events and protect your overall health costs is to take medications as prescribed. The adage “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” applies, so taking the medications your doctor says will help you feel your best today will also help you live a healthier life in the future.

Independent data suggests that patients who enroll in copay savings programs stay on therapy an average of 50-70% longer. The lower costs included in Cuverd integrate copay coupons from pharmaceutical manufacturers to provide direct activation so more patients can get these important savings and support. The Cuverd app can also set reminders that alert users to when it’s time to take medication and refill it. Set these alarms or use another system that works for you to keep yourself on track so you don’t forget or are tempted to skip taking your medications.

Cuverd can be downloaded for free from the Apple App Store and Google Play, or visit Cuverd.com to begin saving on your prescriptions.