Category: Brandpoint Lifestyle

2026-04-27T13:31:00

(BPT) – A barbecue garden makes it easy to grow your own grill-ready ingredients at home. By planting crops like tomatoes, peppers, squash and herbs, you can create fresh, homegrown meals that elevate outdoor entertaining all season long.

Whether you’re hosting a casual cookout or planning a full backyard gathering, growing your own ingredients is one of the simplest ways to upgrade flavor, save money and make your barbecue menu more memorable.

What is a barbecue garden?

A barbecue garden is a purposeful way of planting — focused on ingredients that work well for grilling, fresh sides and summer recipes. Instead of choosing plants at random, you’re building your garden around how you plan to cook and entertain.

Common barbecue garden crops include:

• Tomatoes
• Jalapeños and bell peppers
• Summer squash and zucchini
• Green beans
• Herbs like basil, parsley and cilantro
• Melons like watermelon, cantaloupe and honeydew

Why should you grow your own produce for a barbecue?

Growing your own produce gives you access to peak-ripe ingredients that are more flavorful than store-bought options. It also allows you to harvest exactly what you need, when you need it.

Additional benefits include:

• Better flavor: Vine-ripened tomatoes and freshly picked herbs taste noticeably richer
• Cost savings: A single seed packet can yield dozens of servings — for example, one packet of jalapeño or bean plants can produce the equivalent of hundreds of dollars’ worth of fresh produce over a full growing season
• Convenience: Skip last-minute grocery runs before hosting
• Customization: Grow ingredients tailored to your favorite recipes

Backed by over 160 years of experience, Ferry-Morse is a U.S.-based home gardening brand known for its quality seeds and products that help gardeners successfully grow vegetables, herbs and flowers.

How to start a barbecue garden in 5 easy steps

1. Choose a sunny location with at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight per day

2. Select your crops based on what you enjoy eating and grilling

3. Start seeds indoors or direct sow, depending on your climate and frost dates

4. Water and maintain consistently to support healthy growth

5. Harvest at peak ripeness for the best flavor and texture

Barbecue menu ideas using homegrown ingredients

When you’re planting an edible garden, consider the kinds of foods you’ll want to serve to friends and family at your barbecue. The recipes below offer simple, flavorful ways to bring homegrown ingredients to the table.

Appetizers

Garden Fresh Salad (Easy barbecue salad recipe)

A crisp, easy summer barbecue salad made with spinach, carrots, bell peppers, broccoli, tomatoes and parsley, topped with a tangy vinaigrette.

Garden Fresh Herb Dip (Easy herb dip recipe)

A simple herb dip recipe made with dill, cilantro, parsley and cucumber — perfect for pairing with fresh, homegrown vegetables.

Mains and sides

Garden Fresh Stuffed Peppers (Easy grilled vegetable recipe)

Sweet bell peppers are filled with savory ingredients and finished on the grill for a smoky, satisfying main dish.

Garden Fresh Grilled Summer Squash (Easy grilled vegetable side recipe)

Tender squash slices are enhanced by charred flavor, making this simple side dish perfect alongside grilled proteins.

Signature drink

Reed’s Spicy Tomato Mezcal-Rita (Easy summer cocktail recipe)

A smoky, spicy cocktail that blends fresh tomato, basil and citrus for a bold, garden-inspired drink. This recipe was featured in Ferry-Morse’s Great Garden Challenge series. Catch up on all episodes on Instagram and TikTok.

Dessert

Frozen Melon Granita (Easy summer dessert recipe)

A light, refreshing frozen dessert made with sweet, homegrown melon and a hint of citrus — perfect for warm-weather gatherings.

Barbecue Garden FAQs

What vegetables are best for grilling?
Peppers, zucchini, and tomatoes are among the most popular vegetables for grilling thanks to their flavor and texture.

When should you plant a barbecue garden?
Most barbecue-friendly crops should be planted in spring after the last frost, though some can be started indoors earlier.

Can you grow a barbecue garden in containers?
Yes, many crops like peppers, herbs and tomatoes grow well in containers, making them ideal for patios and small spaces.

Is it cheaper to grow your own vegetables?
Yes, gardening can significantly reduce grocery costs. A single packet of seeds can yield dozens of servings, and in some cases, the harvest can equal hundreds of dollars’ worth of produce over a season, depending on growing conditions.

Get ready to grow your own barbecue garden

Fresh, homegrown ingredients can transform any summer gathering. By planting a barbecue garden with versatile, flavorful crops, you can create meals that are fresher, more personalized and more memorable.

To explore seed varieties and learn what to grow for your own barbecue garden, check out Ferry-Morse’s barbecue garden seed collection.

2026-04-27T09:01:00

(BPT) – Military, veterans, first responders and their families make sacrifices every day for their country. They protect and serve millions of Americans they may never meet, carrying a heavy burden on their behalf.

To honor their service and legacy, Carry The Load — a nonprofit that unites Americans to honor the sacrifices made by these heroes and their loved ones — invites everyone to participate in Memorial May. This monthlong movement is a call to action, inviting communities nationwide to step forward, get involved and carry the load for those who carried us.

The cost they carry

The cost of service is heavy, and it doesn’t end when the uniform comes off. Military, police, firefighters and other first responders carry the weight of service every day, and so do their families.

“Most people will never experience the trauma, loss and life-or-death decision-making these heroes face head-on while serving or the numerous challenges that follow them long after they’ve returned home,” said Stephen Holley, CEO of Carry The Load and former U.S. Navy SEAL. “And for those heroes who make the ultimate sacrifice, their families live with the weight of that sacrifice for the rest of their lives.”

Two of the most common struggles these heroes face are post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and suicide. Veterans and first responders have some of the highest mental-health risks in the U.S. In fact, one in three first responders develops PTSD at some point in their career, and the suicide rate among veterans is twice that of the general U.S. adult population.

While these heroes’ burdens may last a lifetime, they don’t have to bear this burden alone. This May, you have the opportunity to show military, first responders and their families how much their sacrifice means to you. Here are a few ways you can honor those who have given so much.

Participate in a community event

Join your community in a Memorial May community event. Across the nation, Carry The Load will host over 75 community events featuring inspirational speakers, a community walk of remembrance and connection, and post-walk neighborhood hangouts with food and refreshments. Join more than 50,000 participants at these events as they gather to honor and support our nation’s heroes.

Find a community event near you here.

Share a memory of a fallen hero

For those heroes who willingly gave their lives to protect their country, there’s a simple yet meaningful way to honor their sacrifice: Tell their stories. There are many ways you can share their memory, but one you can do right now is to visit Carry The Load’s Tribute Wall. There, you can create a virtual storyboard that details a hero’s life, service and sacrifice. When you share these stories — whether in person or online — you ensure that no one is ever forgotten.

Donate to a trusted organization

You can make a meaningful impact on the lives of heroes and their families by donating to a trusted organization that supports those who serve. For example, when you support the work of Carry The Load, you’re helping provide scholarships and critical services such as counseling, suicide-prevention initiatives, adaptive training, nontraditional therapies, service-dog programs and career placement resources.

These are just a few ways that you can show military, veterans, first responders and their loved ones your appreciation and your desire to help carry the load. To learn more ways you can help, make a donation or participate in an upcoming event near you this Memorial May, visit CarryTheLoad.org.

2026-04-24T14:01:00

(BPT) – Life is busy, making it challenging to maintain your personal wellness goals every day. Getting in key nutrients tops most people’s lists, and that usually means including more whole foods such as green veggies. While it may seem difficult to prepare nutritious, veggie-full meals day in and day out, there are simple ways to boost your greens intake and make the most of what you have on hand. The nutrition experts at Nature Made offer tips for increasing the amount of greens you consume as part of your wellness regimen.

“For anyone who is health-conscious, eating more greens is a primary goal and sometimes a struggle,” said Valerie Agyeman, RD, and Nature Made brand partner. “The good news is, it’s easier than you may think to meet that goal.”

Here’s why eating greens is so vital, and ways to make it easier.

Why green vegetables?

While all vegetables are high in fiber, vitamins and minerals, green veggies, especially leafy greens like kale and spinach, also support your metabolism, and may reduce the risk of certain diseases. In addition, cruciferous vegetables (think broccoli, brussels sprouts and cabbage) are especially rich in nutrients and fiber, which aids gut health and provides antioxidants plus other beneficial compounds that support your overall health.

Try some of these methods to help you enjoy more greens in your daily routine.

Keep them fresh

After purchasing (or growing!) green veggies, remove wilted or rotten areas to prevent the rot from spreading. Don’t wash veggies until you’re ready to use them, as additional moisture can spoil them.

Dry veggies first, then store in an air-tight container or sealed plastic bag along with dry paper towel to absorb excess moisture. Keep them in the crisper drawer in your fridge, and enjoy them soon!

Switch them up

Not keen on kale? Look for other options to find what you love. Experiment with turnip greens, watercress, chard or others for more variety in flavor and texture. Veggies can be enjoyed raw, sauteed, creamed, stir-fried or steamed, so discover what methods you like best.

Pro tip: Search for recipes from cuisines that typically highlight specific veggies, like Chinese dishes featuring bok choy or Italian food with arugula.

Flex your culinary muscles

You can find plenty of ways to incorporate green veggies into foods and drinks. Love smoothies? Combine greens with fruit along with coconut water or your favorite milk to create your own unique blend. Frozen fruit or veggies create a refreshing shake-like drink you can enjoy for breakfast, lunch or as a treat.

Spruce up green salads with seasonal berries, toasted nuts or grated cheese for extra flavor, color and texture. Try new dressings to keep salads interesting, boosting flavor by adding Dijon mustard, soy sauce, rice wine vinegar or fresh minced herbs.

Finely chop greens or chiffonade (cut into thin strips) to use in pasta dishes like spaghetti and lasagna, or as pizza toppings; they’ll resemble fresh basil and blend right in! Use chopped greens in soups, burgers or meat loaf, casseroles or as an extra layer of freshness for your favorite grilled sandwich or omelet.

You can easily add greens without drastically changing the taste or texture of most dishes. Avoid adding unwanted moisture with extra veggies by blanching first, then squeezing out extra moisture. Adding a more bitter veggie like arugula, broccoli rabe, collard greens or chard? Reduce bitterness with additional salt, healthy fats like olive oil, more acid (lemon juice or vinegar) or aromatics such as garlic and onions. Taste your food as you cook and adjust as needed!

Pro tip: Most greens reduce a lot in volume when cooked, so you can add more than you think!

Supplement your greens intake

For busy people seeking a boost,* get more greens into your daily regimen by adding Nature Made SuperGreens supplements, available in a drink powder or capsule form.

SuperGreens with Prebiotic Powder Drink Mix contains one cup of green vegetables (kale, spinach and broccoli) in each daily serving.* Each super greens serving offers a simple, tasty way to enjoy a good source of prebiotic fiber to support digestive health, plus 12 essential nutrients to support energy,** immune and whole body health.†

SuperGreens Capsules with Probiotics is made with a half cup of real green vegetables (kale, spinach and broccoli) and 2 billion CFU (Colony Forming Units) of probiotics per 3 capsules to support digestive health, plus 12 essential nutrients to support energy,** immune and whole body health.†

“Remember, SuperGreens powder or capsules are meant to complement your daily diet, so it’s important to keep enjoying plenty of fresh vegetables throughout the day,” added Valerie Agyeman, RD.

To learn more and shop the line of Nature Made SuperGreens products and more, visit NatureMade.com.

* Consume in addition to your daily intake of vegetables.
** B vitamins help convert food into cellular energy.
† These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

2026-04-21T08:31:00

(BPT) – By Janet Murguía

The Latino community believes deeply in the promise of America. It is for this reason that Hispanics remain among the most optimistic of Americans, according to decades of polling. At the heart of that optimism is the belief that if you work hard and play by the rules, anyone can achieve their American dream.

But for many Latino families and working-class families today, the path to their own American dream has never been more challenging. And that’s not just bad news for Latinos — it’s bad news for America, because when Latino families struggle, so does the broader economy: our businesses, workforce contributions and consumer spending are engines of national growth, and limiting our prosperity limits the nation’s collective potential.

So over the past year, UnidosUS traveled to 15 states, sat with more than 600 people and asked a simple question: What does it take to get ahead in America today?

UnidosUS was a pioneer in making the connection between the well-being of Latino workers and the nation’s future prosperity more than 25 years ago. Many of the same themes we have heard over the years echoed in our conversations: an economy powered by our community that is leaving too many people behind.

Here’s what we are hearing: Housing is out of reach. Wages don’t stretch. Health care is too expensive. Families are just one unexpected bill away from financial collapse.

What emerged from those conversations is a new vision: UnidosUS’s Economic Prosperity Agenda creates a national blueprint for action, focused on areas where action can make the biggest difference, including the cost of housing, the quality and stability of work, the ability to start and grow a business, and the basic supports families need to stay afloat.

This isn’t just a plan to strengthen economic mobility for Latino families, it’s a plan to maximize shared prosperity for the country — because investing in Latino prosperity is a central economic strategy that will power America’s economic future.

Our housing proposition is one of the clearest examples.

For many families, the dream of homeownership is slipping out of reach. Not because they aren’t working for it, but because the goal posts keep moving. Latinos have demonstrated that they eagerly want to become homeowners. Giving a helping hand to potential buyers will help close the homeownership gap and create 2.9 million new buyers while also giving a boost to the struggling middle class and working families housing market.

Even as families work toward homeownership, some Latino entrepreneurs are starting businesses, creating jobs and strengthening their communities often without the same access to capital or networks as others. Latinos represent one-in-five Americans, but far fewer business owners. Closing that gap could unlock $11 trillion in business revenue and $2.5 trillion in worker pay over the next decade.

For many families, the most difficult trade-offs are the most personal: choosing between a paycheck or caring for a loved one; paying rent or paying for medication. We’ve already seen what works. The expanded Child Tax Credit reached 61 million children, boosted consumer spending by $28 billion and created 500,000 jobs. Expanding access to health care, paid leave and childcare isn’t a luxury; it’s what allows families to survive and plan for the future.

Latinos are the youngest and fastest-growing segment of the American workforce; and UnidosUS projects Latinos will account for nearly one-in-three new workers by 2030. This is a central economic fact of this decade. The ladder that Latino families have spent generations climbing is the same one that will lift up this economy.

Our Economic Prosperity Agenda is a statement of our values, a call to action and a vision for our future.

Janet Murguía is president and CEO of UnidosUS, the nation’s largest Hispanic civil rights and advocacy organization. Learn more at unidosus.org.

2026-04-17T14:03:00

(BPT) – Homeowners today expect more from their kitchens than ever before — and for good reason, as nearly half of Americans consider it to be the most important room in the house.

This is driving demand for smart appliances that make daily life simpler and easier while fitting in seamlessly with contemporary kitchen spaces, merging connected convenience with refined, premium design. These trends were on display at this year’s Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS) and Consumer Electronics Show (CES), revealing how today’s products are evolving to meet the moment.

Here’s a look at some of the latest appliance innovations designed for modern kitchens and lifestyles.

The right fit for real homes

Today’s homes are not one-size-fits-all, so it’s crucial for appliances to be adaptable to kitchens of every size and configuration. Increasingly, homeowners are prioritizing seamless, flush integration, with as many as 65-70% favoring designs that align cleanly with surrounding cabinetry.

Samsung’s new Bespoke AI 3-Door French Door Refrigerators with Zero Clearance Fit are designed to fit all types of spaces, providing ease of installation across diverse kitchen layouts. Their specially designed hinges and slim door profiles allow the fridge to open fully, even with just 0.16 inches of clearance next to walls or cabinetry. This enables flexible placement and a near-seamless look — without sacrificing ease of access.

Consumers also appreciate the refrigerator’s premium stainless steel finish, refined door handles and full-metal interior panel, which come together to create a refrigerator that feels both contemporary and timeless.

Designed for how people entertain today

With 72% of Americans saying they prefer staying in with friends rather than going out, there is more interest in hosting at home, especially when it comes to food and drinks. At the same time, the growth of home mixology is expanding the market beyond bars, with retail sales of specialty ice molds and machines rising more than 20% annually.

Samsung’s newest Bespoke refrigerators are designed to meet these evolving needs. The freezer makes slow-melting Sphere Ice™ that keeps drinks colder longer while reducing dilution, bringing a premium, bar-quality experience into the home without the need for separate molds or specialty equipment.

For everyday convenience, a Tall Water & Ice Dispenser offers curved or crushed ice and ample space for no-tilt filling of pitchers, oversized water bottles and large tumblers. It’s a thoughtful feature for entertaining, and one that aligns perfectly with today’s growing obsession with statement drinkware. With large drinkware making up nearly 41% of the North American market in 2025 and demand continuing to rise, this design is as practical as it is on trend.

Making everyday tasks easier

People are also looking for ways to spend less time on everyday tasks like cooking, so they can spend more time connecting with family and guests. As at-home entertaining continues to rise, appliances that reduce effort without sacrificing performance are becoming essential. Samsung’s Bespoke Smart Slide-in Ranges reflect this shift, combining a bold, professional-inspired aesthetic with advanced performance that makes it easier to get dinner on the table and enjoy the moment.

For a high-end cooking experience, the ranges have large, premium stainless steel knobs that illuminate when in use and a soft-close oven door with precision hinges. Powerful cooking mode options also save time and help create meals with ease. No Preheat Air Fry Max lets users air fry foods up to 15% faster without preheating, delivering crispy, golden results in less time, and True Convection uses an added heating element and powerful fan to circulate consistently heated air, ensuring faster, more even cooking on every rack. There’s also an Air Sous Vide mode that applies precise temperature control and airflow to slow-cook food evenly, locking in flavor and moisture for restaurant-quality results.

Together, these capabilities help reduce prep time and make cooking more approachable for people of all skill levels. These new Bespoke Smart Slide-in Ranges also have a Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel finish for an elegant look, and five burners for enhanced convenience.

Connected but not complicated

Homeowners also want to enhance energy efficiency and maintain control of their home’s appliances and systems — even remotely — with technology that’s helpful, not intrusive. Demand for smart, energy-efficient appliances in the U.S. is surging this year, fueled by rising costs and willingness among 62% of consumers to invest in efficiency.

Samsung’s SmartThings connectivity makes it easy to manage connected appliances and live more sustainably while keeping energy bills in check. For example, SmartThings Energy lets users track their refrigerator’s power usage, automatically reducing energy consumption by as much as 15% when AI Energy Mode is activated through the SmartThings app. The app can also be used to adjust temperature settings and monitor the refrigerator from a user’s phone, giving them greater control and peace of mind wherever they are.

Designed for how people live

Together, these new refrigerators and ranges demonstrate how Samsung is pushing premium design, connected convenience and powerful performance forward, all within the brand’s cohesive Bespoke aesthetic. Thoughtfully designed for modern living, Samsung’s Bespoke home appliances deliver a seamless, sophisticated look that easily adapts to any home’s style while making everyday tasks easier than ever.

Explore the latest kitchen appliances from Samsung’s 2026 Bespoke lineup, now available on Samsung.com and at select U.S. retailers. To learn more about how Samsung’s smart Bespoke appliances can help simplify your life, visit Samsung.com.

2026-04-16T11:25:00

(BPT) – Your child has chosen their college! Read on for a checklist from College Ave of items to remember as you prepare for this transition. From important deadlines and financial planning to dorm essentials and packing ideas, you’ll find tips to be prepared for this exciting next step.

2026-04-16T07:31:00

(BPT) – There’s a specific feeling that arrives with spring and summer — the pull of open air, longer days, and the quiet reminder that life is better lived outside. It’s the season that calls us back to nature, and for good reason. Hiking, outdoor photography, camping under the stars, beach days and backyard gatherings are just a few of the many joys you can experience during the warmer months.

If you want to make the most of every sun-soaked hour outdoors, you’ll need the right gear to stay energized, connected and prepared. As you plan your next spring or summer trip, make sure to review these five outdoor adventure tips.

Stay cool and hydrated

Before you head outdoors, grab an insulated tumbler filled with cold water or your favorite chilled beverage. When temperatures rise, staying hydrated isn’t just practical — it’s essential for enjoying every moment. Pack enough water for the whole group, and consider a cooler stocked with electrolyte drinks for longer days at the campsite or on the trail.

Dress smart for sun and warmth

What you wear outdoors in spring and summer can make or break your comfort. When preparing for a warm-weather adventure, make sure to dress with both sun protection and breathability in mind.

Start with a moisture-wicking base layer — a lightweight, breathable shirt and quick-dry shorts or pants to keep sweat off your skin. Add a loose, long-sleeve sun shirt for UV protection on a day hike or afternoon at the campsite. Finish with a wide-brimmed hat, UV-blocking sunglasses, and comfortable, supportive footwear suited to your terrain.

Pro tip: Practicality should be your #1 concern when choosing your outdoor clothing, but today’s activewear comes in countless colors, patterns and styles. You’ll stay cool and look great doing it.

Bring reliable on-the-go power

Think about everything you bring to a campsite or a day outdoors: a phone for photos and maps, a speaker for setting the mood around the fire, a lantern, a fan for the tent on a warm night. All of it needs power. The last thing you want is to be cut off from the things that make the experience comfortable — or to miss a moment because your camera died.

That’s where a compact portable power station earns its place in the pack. The Jackery Explorer 300 is purpose-built for people who want to stay powered without slowing down — living up to the brand’s slogan, “Your Power. Your Pace.” It holds a 292Wh capacity and delivers up to 300W of AC output, plenty to run a camp fan, charge a camera, or keep a string of lights going all evening around the site. Its upgraded 100W USB-C port — a 67% increase over the previous generation — handles laptops and other power-hungry devices with ease. And when the sun is up, the Explorer 300 can recharge via a compatible solar panel, reaching a full charge in as little as 3.5 hours with a 100W panel, so you can tap into renewable energy right from your campsite.

Portability is where the Explorer 300 really shines. At just 7.5 lbs — about the same weight as a lightweight camping tent — it tucks easily into the car or a pack without eating up precious space. It runs whisper-quiet at under 28 dB, so it won’t disturb the peaceful sounds of nature around you. An energy-saving mode automatically powers the unit down after six hours of low-power output, so you’re never wasting a charge. And with an EV-grade LiFePO4 battery built to last over a decade, backed by a 5-year warranty, this is an investment in seasons of adventure to come — not a one-trip gadget.

Stock your first-aid kit

Accidents happen. No matter the season or terrain, make sure to pack a first-aid kit in case of minor cuts, scratches or other medical needs. You can buy a premade kit from a sporting goods store or pharmacy, or you can create your own.

For spring and summer expeditions, make sure your first-aid kit contains:

• Travel-sized, over-the-counter medications
• Bandages
• Gauze
• Medical tape
• Antibiotic ointments
• Alcohol wipes
• Blister treatment and moleskin (a summer hiking essential)
• A reflective emergency blanket and insect repellent wipes

Having backup power on hand can also be critical in emergencies — a portable power station like the Jackery Explorer 300 ensures phones, GPS devices and headlamps stay charged if conditions change unexpectedly.

Bring sun protection

Sun protection isn’t just for the beach — it’s a must for any spring or summer outing, whether you’re at a campsite, on a trail or simply spending a long afternoon outside. UV rays are stronger than many people realize, and open settings with little shade can add up fast. Before you head out, apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen, swipe on some SPF lip balm and put on sunglasses with UV protection. Reapply every two hours, especially on long days outdoors. You’ll feel better for it when you get home.

Spring and summer are calling — and the only thing standing between you and your next great outdoor memory is a little preparation. With these five tips, you can embrace the season fully: energized, protected and ready for whatever the adventure brings. Your power. Your pace.

2026-04-15T13:47:00

(BPT) – For many people, shingles is an afterthought — a painful rash that happens to other people. But the reality is far more serious with about one in three adults developing shingles in their lifetime.¹ For some, the characteristic painful rash is just the beginning. Lasting consequences, which are often underestimated, can include severe and persistent nerve pain, burning, and itching that continue long after the rash has subsided. Recognizing the full impact of this disease is key to understanding why prevention through vaccination is a critical component of healthy aging, particularly for those over 50 or with a weakened immune system.

More than “just a rash”

Shingles is caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox, the varicella-zoster virus. According to the CDC, more than 99% of Americans born before 1980 have had chickenpox, even if they do not remember it.¹ After a person recovers from chickenpox, the virus remains dormant in the body and can reactivate years later and cause shingles. When it does reactivate, the effects can be severe.

“Shingles can lead to intense pain, complications like nerve damage, and even hospitalization,” said Samantha Picking, PharmD, senior director of immunizations at Walgreens. “One of the most common complications of shingles is postherpetic neuralgia, a condition that can cause persistent, burning nerve pain long after the rash disappears. For some, this pain can interfere with sleep, work, and everyday activities, lasting months or even years.”

The best defense is prevention

While shingles can have a serious impact, it is also highly preventable. The CDC recommends two doses of the shingles vaccine for adults ages 50 and older, as well as for adults 19 and older with weakened immune systems.² Studies show the vaccine is 97% effective at preventing shingles in adults 50-69 years old with healthy immune systems and 91% effective at preventing postherpetic neuralgia.

Some people may experience mild side effects after vaccination, but these typically go away within a few days.

“While some individuals may feel some discomfort after getting the shingles vaccine, such as a sore arm or fatigue, it is far less than the pain and potential complications associated with a shingles infection,” said Picking.

Additionally, most insurance plans, including Medicare Part D and many private health insurance providers, cover shingles vaccines, making it accessible and often free for eligible individuals.

Beyond shingles: Other important vaccines for older adults

Staying up to date on all your routine vaccinations is one of the easiest ways to protect your health as you age.

“Beyond shingles, I recommend asking your pharmacist about additional routine vaccinations that are vital for healthy aging — it is about proactive health, not just reactive care,” Picking said.

If you are 50 years or older, you may be eligible for the pneumococcal and RSV vaccines, as well as a Tdap booster. The CDC also recommends a second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine for people 65 and older, and those with weakened immune systems may be eligible for an additional dose.

“It is completely normal to have questions about vaccines,” Picking said. “That is exactly why your local pharmacists are here. We are easily accessible and highly trained experts, ready to provide guidance, address your concerns and help you make informed decisions about your health.”

Walgreens: Your partner in health

Staying up to date with routine vaccines can seem complicated, but Walgreens makes it easy, offering the option to schedule multiple vaccines in the same visit and with flexible appointments — including same-day, nights and weekends. Walk-ins are also welcome.

Walk in or schedule ahead at Walgreens.com/ScheduleVaccine, through the Walgreens app or by calling 1-800-WALGREENS.

2026-04-15T09:01:00

(BPT) – Sponsored by argenx

According to the Autoimmune Association, approximately 50 million Americans live with an autoimmune disease, yet these conditions remain among the most underrecognized and underserved in modern medicine.

Despite a growing body of research into more than 100 known autoimmune diseases, overall awareness and understanding of these conditions is still developing.

Today in the United States, autoimmune disease treatment continues to prioritize short-term symptom relief over long-term disease control. This systemic challenge leaves patients seeking innovative solutions.

“Autoimmune diseases are complex, often chronic conditions that demand treatments for long-term safety, sustained disease control and restoration of physical function,” said Peter Ulrichts, chief scientific officer of argenx, a global immunology company committed to improving the lives of people suffering from severe autoimmune diseases. “As scientific understanding continues to advance, we are focusing on translating that progress into innovative and patient-centered care for people living with autoimmune diseases.”

Current standard of care and the need for steroid tapering

To date, corticosteroids have been the standard of care and first-line treatment across many autoimmune diseases because they can provide relief from inflammation, a common symptom of many of these conditions. According to Steritas, oral steroids are among the most prescribed medications in the United States.

However, clinical research has shown that long-term steroid use is associated with significant risk of toxicity that can lead to various issues like bone fractures, infections or hypertension. These side effects, layered on top of already challenging daily symptoms, underscore why tapering off steroid treatment is a priority for those developing new treatments for autoimmune diseases.

While clinical guidance recommends transitioning patients off chronic steroid use as quickly and safely as possible, non-steroid treatment options remain limited or inaccessible for many autoimmune diseases. In some conditions, effective alternatives do not yet exist; in others, available therapies may take time to work or fail to adequately control disease. As a result, many individuals remain dependent on steroids despite the risks associated with chronic use.

Innovations in autoimmune disease treatment

The continued reliance on long-term steroid use, despite the risk of toxicity-related health effects, highlights the need for innovation in the treatment and management of autoimmunity.

“Reducing steroid side effects relies on monitoring the patient not only on counting the pills,” said Martha Stone, CEO at Steritas. “By measuring steroid toxicity directly in each patient, in clinical research and clinical care, doctors can personalize each steroid taper and help change what autoimmune disease management looks like.”

Steroid-sparing treatments are becoming increasingly available, helping patients address some of these concerns. Continuing that progress requires an innovative approach to science and collaboration among researchers, healthcare providers and biotech industry innovators.

“At argenx, we’re working to help people suffering from serious autoimmune diseases by developing therapies that can address the underlying drivers of disease and reduce patients’ dependence on steroids, helping them achieve better outcomes with fewer long-term risks,” said Luc Truyen, M.D., Ph.D., chief medical officer of argenx.

Learn more about the effects of long-term steroid use and tracking your journey with steroids at steroidsandme.com, and explore how argenx is advancing innovative approaches to autoimmune disease care at argenx.com.

2026-04-14T15:31:00

(BPT) – For decades, Skechers built its reputation on comfort; not as an afterthought — but as a technical advantage.

The brand applies that performance-driven comfort DNA to one of footwear’s most demanding categories: high-performance running. Skechers has a proven track record of creating award-winning running shoes, including the Skechers AERO Burst, which was honored as “Best Walk to Run” in the 2025 SELF Sneaker Awards.

Because here’s the part the industry often overlooks: Most people don’t quit running because they lack discipline. They quit because it starts to feel uncomfortable.

Discomfort triggers a chain reaction. It can lead to setbacks, impact motivation, and once running feels physically punishing, it becomes one of the first habits to fall away when life gets busy.

Research supports this. Studies have found that runners who perceive higher shoe cushioning and comfort experience significantly lower injury risk, up to a 65–76% reduction compared to lower-cushion footwear.

When running hurts early, people don’t push through.

They stop.

That reality explains why Skechers continues to lean into performance running by doubling down on its core strength. Rather than asking runners to adapt, the company has adapted its proprietary comfort technologies to the biomechanics of running.

The result is footwear that prioritizes impact absorption, heel support and underfoot stability, especially for the majority of runners who are heel strikers.

The Skechers AERO Burst embodies that strategy.

Built with lightweight, responsive foam cushioning, it’s engineered to reduce impact and fatigue, so runners feel better during and after their miles.

The shoe features Skechers’ dual-density Hyper Burst Ice™ cushioning, a super critical foam designed to deliver lightweight responsiveness and enhanced comfort with every step.

Its anatomical heel design and Hyper Arc™ rocker geometry create a smoother transition from impact to toe-off without forcing unnatural stride mechanics. An Arch Fit^® system enhances support, while a Goodyear^® rubber outsole delivers durable traction across surfaces.

Select styles are also available in Skechers Hands Free Slip-ins^®, allowing runners to easily step into the shoe without bending down — an added convenience that supports everyday usability.

Designed to cut though the wind, the shoe’s design helps reduce drag and allows runners to move more efficiently through their stride.

The philosophy is straightforward: Comfort is not the opposite of performance. It enables it.

Across the country, more Americans are redefining what performance means. Many are focused on consistency and their overall well-being. So, instead of asking “How much time can I shave off?” they’re asking, “How can I keep going?”

Behavioral research consistently shows that reducing friction increases adherence. When movement feels manageable, repetition follows.

Skechers is betting that comfort is not a compromise, it’s a retention strategy.

Not every runner defines performance the same way. For many runners, performance isn’t only about finishing faster, it’s about staying active long enough to feel healthier, think clearer and move confidently for years to come.

For them, performance is about comfort and durability.

And that desired combination starts underfoot.

The Skechers AERO Burst is available now.

For more information about Skechers AERO Burst go to Skechers.com.