Category: Brandpoint Lifestyle

2025-04-11T12:23:00

(BPT) – If you didn’t get the updated vaccine in fall 2024, it’s not too late to benefit from the protection that vaccines can offer. Over 95% of adults who were hospitalized in 2023-2024 due to COVID-19 had no record of receiving the latest vaccine.¹ Being unvaccinated or not being up to date can increase the risk of severe COVID-19.²

If it’s been a while since your last COVID-19 vaccination, it may be time to speak to your healthcare provider about your vaccination status and what you may need to stay protected. If you are over the age of 65 or are chronically immunocompromised, you may be at an increased risk of severe disease from COVID-19. You may be eligible to receive a second updated COVID-19 vaccination if it’s been six months since your last vaccination.^3,4,5,6

To help you stay informed, here are the top five things to know about COVID-19:

1. COVID-19 continues to circulate across the United States⁷

As we approach the five-year anniversary of the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, the virus continues to cause a burden in the U.S.⁷ Infectious diseases like COVID-19 and the flu traditionally see increased hospitalizations during the traditional winter season.⁷ However, while flu prevalence typically decreases during other seasons, COVID-19 continues to cause a significant burden throughout the year.⁷ COVID-19 vaccination rates remain lower than with influenza, yet there is still a risk of hospitalization and severe outcomes for those who are not vaccinated.^2,8,9

Symptoms of COVID-19 are often like other respiratory illnesses, such as the flu, and may include coughing, fever and a sore throat, among a multitude of other possible symptoms, ranging from mild to severe illness.¹⁰

2. Some Americans may be at higher risk of COVID-19 complications

Your risk of severe illness from COVID-19 increases as the number of your underlying medical conditions increases.³ As many as 75% of all adults in the U.S. have underlying conditions that increase their risk for severe COVID-19 complications.¹¹ A study showed that COVID-19 patients with underlying conditions are at a 2-4 times higher risk of developing severe COVID-19 illness compared to those without.¹²

There are select factors that increase the risk for severe COVID-19 outcomes, including being over age 65, asthma, diabetes, obesity and heart conditions, among others.³ “If you have any of these risk factors, it’s recommended to ask your health care provider about vaccination,” said James Mansi, Vice President of Medical Affairs, North America at Moderna. “It’s also a good idea to let your loved ones who may be at higher risk of severe illness know about the importance of continuing to be vaccinated against COVID-19.”

3. Routine vaccination is essential for protecting your health

The CDC recommends that everyone ages 6 months and older receive an updated 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccine to protect against potentially serious outcomes of COVID-19, whether or not they have been previously vaccinated.¹³

The virus that causes COVID-19 is always changing, and protection from a COVID-19 vaccination or infection wanes over time. The updated vaccines are designed to help provide better protection as COVID-19 mutates.¹³

4. A second dose of the updated vaccine is advised for many

The CDC recommends that people 65 years and older and/or who are moderately or severely immunocompromised receive a second dose of the 2024-2025 updated COVID-19 vaccine six months after their last dose (and possibly a third dose, after consultation with their healthcare provider) with a two-month minimum time between doses.^4,5

If you received the updated COVID-19 vaccine this past fall, it may be time to get your second dose. Mark your calendar six months out from your initial dose to ensure you’re staying on schedule. If you recently had COVID-19, you may consider delaying your vaccine by three months after symptoms started or after receiving a positive test with no symptoms.⁴

“It’s easy to lose track of when you were last vaccinated and what new vaccines or updated vaccines you are due for. Reaching out to your physician or healthcare team and having a conversation is the best way to find what is right for you,” said Dr. Alex McDonald, family physician and President of the California Chapter of the American Academy of Family Physicians. “Taking steps now to protect yourself and your family is one of the best things you can do to help protect yourself and those who care about you.”

5. Long COVID still poses a threat

Healthcare professionals believe Long COVID impacts nearly one in five Americans who have had COVID-19, regardless of age or health status, which means anyone who gets COVID is at risk.¹⁴ Long COVID can include a wide range of symptoms, such as brain fog, difficulty concentrating, fatigue and chest pain.¹⁵ These symptoms may improve, worsen or be ongoing, and can last for a few months or several years.¹⁶

Severe acute COVID infection also raises your risk for post-acute sequelae like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, kidney and gastrointestinal disorders, among others.¹⁷

Where you can get vaccinated

Talk with your trusted healthcare provider or pharmacist about which vaccines you and your loved ones need to stay healthy. To learn more, and to find vaccinations near you, visit Vaccines.gov.

Sponsored by Moderna.

1. CDC. Accessed February 3, 2025. https://www.cdc.gov/respiratory-viruses/risk-factors/older-adults.html

2. CDC. Accessed July 22, 2024. https://www.cdc.gov/covid/hcp/clinical-care/underlying-conditions.html

3. CDC. Accessed February 3, 2025. https://www.cdc.gov/covid/risk-factors/index.html

4. CDC. Accessed February 3, 2025. https://www.cdc.gov/covid/vaccines/stay-up-to-date.html

5. CDC. Accessed February 3, 2025. https://www.cdc.gov/covid/vaccines/immunocompromised-people.html

6. CDC. Accessed April 1, 2025. https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2024/s1023-covid-19-vaccine.html

7. CDC. Accessed February 3, 2025. https://www.cdc.gov/surveillance/resp-net/dashboard.html

8. CDC. Accessed February 3, 2025. https://www.cdc.gov/respiratory-viruses/data/vaccination-trends.html

9. Xie Y, Choi T, Al-Aly Z. Risk of Death in Patients Hospitalized for COVID-19 vs Seasonal Influenza in Fall-Winter 2022-2023. JAMA. 2023;329(19):1697–1699. doi:10.1001/jama.2023.5348

10. CDC. Accessed February 3, 2025. https://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/flu-vs-covid19.html

11. Ajufo E, et al. Am J Prev Cardiol. 2021;6:100156.

12. Moghadas SM, et al. Clin Infect Dis. 2021;73(12):2257-2264.

13. CDC. Accessed February 3, 2025. https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2024/s-t0627-vaccine-recommendations.html

14. Qasmieh, Saba A., et al. The prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 infection and long COVID in US adults during the BA. 4/BA. 5 surge, June–July 2022. Preventive Medicine. 2023;169:107461.

15. CDC. Signs and Symptoms of Long Covid. Accessed February 20, 2025. https://www.cdc.gov/covid/long-term-effects/long-covid-signs-symptoms.html

16. CDC. Long COVID Basics. https://www.cdc.gov/covid/long-term-effects/index.html

17. Bowe, B., Xie, Y. & Al-Aly, Z. Postacute sequelae of COVID-19 at 2 years. Nat Med 29, 2347–2357 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41591-023-02521-2

03/25 US-COV-2500051

2025-04-11T08:01:00

(BPT) – Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s can be overwhelming. Nearly 70% of family caregivers say that coordinating care is stressful, and two-thirds struggle to find information to support their loved one’s needs according to a recent report from the Alzheimer’s Association. These challenges, combined with the emotional and physical toll of caregiving, make the journey especially difficult.

To help, a new AI-powered app, Elevmi, offers immediate, personalized support to caregivers. Elevmi can help caregivers find answers related to Alzheimer’s caregiving at a moment’s notice, record observations, prepare for doctors’ visits, and more.

Elevmi: Free personalized AI support for caregivers, by caregivers

Caregivers often become the go-to resource for their loved ones. Now, they have an assistant on their journey: “Elle”, the app’s conversational AI. Elle answers Alzheimer’s care-related questions, provides information about managing symptoms, preparing for doctors’ visits and more, and offers reminders, all based on trusted sources like the National Institute on Aging, part of the National Institutes of Health.

Developed with input from over 300 caregivers, Elle’s features are designed to deliver meaningful, practical support to help users manage their loved one’s condition and their own well-being.

“Caregivers are often the backbone of Alzheimer’s care, balancing an immense load of responsibilities with little support,” said Sanket Shah, President of Otsuka Precision Health, Inc., the app developer. “With Elevmi, we wanted to provide caregivers with a helpful, easy-to-use resource to help manage being a caregiver, including access to accurate, up-to-date information on the condition.”

Information and resources for Alzheimer’s care

Alzheimer’s is a complex and multifaceted condition — with Elevmi, caregivers can stay up to date with knowledge about Alzheimer’s disease. Elevmi helps caregivers understand disease progression, symptom management, and care tips that can make a meaningful difference in their daily routines.

Elevmi provides caregivers with information that may help them:

• Anticipate changes in behavior, such as increased agitation during the evening (sundowning), difficulty with daily routines, or changes in communication abilities.
• Understand medical recommendations by explaining the purpose of cognitive assessments, the potential implications of medication adjustments, or the importance of physical and occupational therapies.
• Prepare for upcoming doctor visits by allowing caregivers to track observations of their loved one over time, craft effective, meaningful questions for healthcare providers on condition management, and conduct structured check-ins to provide helpful updates on a loved one’s needs.
• Access resources with information on how to manage symptoms like wandering, difficulty sleeping and changes in appetite, all tailored to their loved one’s unique condition based on the questions a caregiver asks.
• Help support their own mental health with features such as stress management techniques, mindfulness exercises, and reminders to take breaks and care for themselves.

Elevmi helps the individual receiving care but also prioritizes the mental and emotional health of caregivers. “You need a support system. You need to take care of yourself. It’s a long difficult journey at times,” said Deanna, a primary caregiver and member of the Elevmi design committee.

Get started with Elevmi

Elevmi is designed to be easy to use and accessible for Alzheimer’s disease caregivers. Here’s how you can get started for free:

1. Download the app: Elevmi is available on iOS^® and Android™ devices. Simply visit the App Store or Google Play and search for Elevmi.
2. Create an account: Set up an account by entering your email address and creating a secure password.
3. Explore the features: Once logged in, use Elevmi’s conversational AI, Elle, to ask questions, get personalized care tips, and prepare for doctor visits.
4. Stay informed: Access expert-backed resources about Alzheimer’s disease including information on symptom management and care strategies.

To download and learn more, visit www.elevmi.com.

2025-04-11T09:05:00

(BPT) – Whether you’ve always had a green thumb or you’re new to gardening, dreams of beautiful flowers spring to life this time of year. For inspiration, trusted seed packet company Ferry-Morse offers creative ideas for using fresh flowers and wildflowers.

With Bulk Flower & Wildflower Seed Mixes, you’ll start the season with gorgeous variety — and enjoy the surprises when your garden starts blooming. This new collection features 50 varieties of one-pound bags of easy-to-grow flower, wildflower and lawn alternative seeds. Choose your favorite mixes by color preference, design trends, preferred garden features and regional conditions to help bring your garden dreams to life.

1. Pretty enough to eat

Did you know that certain flowers are edible? The Edible Flower Mix offers flowers to elevate any dish. Sprinkle calendula petals on a salad for color and a mild peppery taste. Thirsty? Pair a Mint Mojito with refreshing cucumber-like borage, or try this non-alcoholic version:

Cucumber Mint “Faux-Jito”

Ingredients

• 1 cucumber
• 1 lime
• 3/4 cup mint
• 4 teaspoons agave or simple syrup
• 2 teaspoons cane or raw sugar
• 8 ounces club soda
• Ice
• Fresh borage flowers
• Dried edible flower petals, blended until fine in a food processor or blender

Instructions
Pour agave or simple syrup on a plate to rim your glass. On separate plate, spread mix of cane or raw sugar and dried edible flowers.
Rim glass with agave or simple syrup, then dip in sugar/dried flower mixture.
Add 3-5 cucumber slices, 2-3 lime slices, mint leaves and 1 teaspoon of agave or simple syrup to the glass.
Muddle ingredients to release flavors.
Add ice, club soda and stir.
Garnish with borage flowers for a cucumber-like flavor that complements your drink perfectly!

Tip: Freeze edible flowers into decorative ice cubes. Try a flower-shaped silicone mold for a unique spin on the fancy ice trend.

2. Nature’s masterpieces

Grow craft-worthy blooms with the Perennial Wildflower Mix — including lupine, sweet William and purple coneflower — for a flower garden to last for seasons to come. Then press fresh flowers to create frameable art.

Pressed flower artwork

Materials

• Flowers/wildflowers of your choice (greenery optional)
• Flower press or 2-3 large books
• Parchment paper (2 sheets)
• Burlap
• Scissors
• Tape/glue
• Frame

Instructions

Don’t have a flower press? Place two layers of parchment paper between pages of a large book.
Place flowers/wildflowers flat between layers of parchment paper.
Carefully close book and weigh down with 1-2 other books or heavy items. Press flowers 2-3 weeks, until dry.
Arrange dried flowers inside the glass/acrylic of your frame “face down” to achieve your desired look.
Cut piece of burlap wide enough to fill the frame, to serve as backdrop for your flowers.
Place burlap over the “back” of the flowers and close the frame. Display your DIY pressed flower art!

Optional: Use tape or glue to secure burlap to the frame’s photo mat to secure flowers.

Tip: Press flowers by putting them between sheets of parchment paper, then iron about 10 seconds or put under heavy microwave-safe dish and microwave 90 seconds on medium. Allow additional time to dry as needed.

3. Wedding-worthy bouquets

Get ready to create stunning bouquets and boutonnieres for weddings, proms, parties or thoughtful gifts. Gardening in the Southwest or Northeast? Regional Mixes feature varieties specifically selected for your local climate to support your creative endeavors.

DIY Bouquets

Materials

• Flowers/wildflowers of your choice
• Greenery: Ferns, branches, hedge clippings
• Filler flowers (smaller flowers)
• Vase
• Floral tissue paper
• Decorative ribbon

Instructions
Bouquets are traditionally built using the “3-5-8 rule” — 3 big bold flowers, 5 pieces of greenery, 8 filler flowers — for a proportional bouquet. Think about the color story you want to tell while choosing and arranging flowers. Blues, pinks, whites and yellows make beautiful combinations, but get creative and experiment with bright reds, oranges, purples — whatever you enjoy!

• Place your 3 tallest or boldest-color flowers in a vase. Starting in a vase helps you see how the bouquet is coming together before you wrap it.
• Add 5 pieces of greenery to the bouquet, turning occasionally to ensure you’re achieving your desired look.
• Work smaller filler flowers into the bouquet based on what’s visually appealing to you.

To wrap your bouquet, roll 3-4 sheets of floral tissue paper into a cone, place bouquet inside and tie with decorative ribbon. Don’t have floral tissue paper? You can use a paper bag to hold your bouquet!

4. Embrace cottagecore style

If you haven’t heard of “cottagecore,” prepare to be charmed! Imagine an English country cottage bursting with floral patterns and a table set for tea. Adopt the cottage core style with the Cottage Garden Mix, a combination of annuals and perennials blending nostalgic favorites like poppy, cornflower and nasturtium. Display your favorites indoors using whimsical teapots or vintage milk jugs as vases.

Your entire yard can become cottagecore with the Flowering Grass Alternative Mix: fine fescue, flowers and clovers offering a colorful, diverse alternative to all-grass lawns. You’ll have a beautiful carpet of low-growing flowers that’s low maintenance, doesn’t need to be mowed all season — and uses less water.

5. Create a pollinator sanctuary

Want to make an oasis for bees and butterflies? The Bumblebee Buffet Mix, a blend of annuals and perennials including cosmos, zinnia and snapdragon, provides pollen and nectar pollinators love. Make sure to offer shallow pools like bird baths with a few rocks as landing spots for thirsty bees.

Whatever type of garden you dream of, you can make it happen. Visit Ferrymorse.com/pages/flower-seed-mixes to get started.

Looking for additional gardening tips and tricks throughout the season? Ferry-Morse offers a variety of online tools including the Garden Matchmaker Quiz for personalized seed recommendations and The Greenhouse blog for gardening tips and recipes available on FerryMorse.com.

Gardeners of all levels can also tune into Ferry-Morse’s annual Garden Get-Together — now in a new series format — for free advice and inspiration from the brand’s experts and popular gardening influencers. Tune in on the Ferry-Morse Instagram, TikTok, Facebook or YouTube channels to learn more.

2025-04-09T09:57:00

(BPT) – Each year, millions of women are diagnosed with vaginitis, an infection that most will experience at least once in their lifetime. It’s one of the main reasons women visit their OB/GYN. However, getting the right diagnosis can sometimes be tricky because vaginitis shares symptoms—like vaginal discharge or pain during urination—with other conditions, including sexually transmitted infections (STIs). This can often lead to delays or misdiagnoses. It’s estimated 30% of women who have vaginitis symptoms are incorrectly diagnosed after they have been evaluated.

In recognition of STI Awareness Month in April, Dr. Staci Tanouye, a board-certified OB/GYN from Women’s Care Florida, is speaking up and sharing a reminder that early diagnosis and proper treatment of both vaginitis and any potential STI co-infections are key to protecting women’s health.

“As an OB/GYN, I’ve heard from many patients that they feel ashamed about their symptoms or simply can’t find the time to make an appointment,” said Dr. Tanouye. “As a result, many women try to self-diagnose, often thinking they have a yeast infection, potentially overlooking other conditions like bacterial vaginosis (BV), a common cause of vaginitis. This confusion can lead to serious risks like STIs, pelvic inflammatory disease, or pregnancy-related complications.”

With the high number of vaginitis cases we’re seeing every year and its potentially devastating impact on women’s health, it’s crucial to understand the true cause of symptoms—especially with vaginitis linked to an increased risk of STIs.

One study showed that 1 in 5 women with vaginitis symptoms also tested positive for at least one STI. Additionally, women who tested positive for BV had double the rate of STIs compared to those who were negative. Given the proven link between vaginitis and STI co-infections, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends testing for STIs in all women diagnosed with BV.

Thankfully, advances in technology have made testing easier and more effective. Now, one simple vaginal swab can test for multiple infections, including the most common STIs, like chlamydia and gonorrhea, and causes of vaginitis.

“The best part about the latest methods is that patients don’t have to come in for additional tests,” said Dr. Tanouye. “The original sample can be used to run multiple tests at once. Women also can choose to collect the sample themselves in a private setting or have the doctor do it — something that many of my patients find comforting.”

Because each case of vaginitis has different treatment needs, it’s crucial for women to get an accurate diagnosis. With the right treatment, symptoms can be resolved quickly, and the risk of recurring infections is reduced.

“By working with a healthcare professional, women can ensure they get the right diagnosis and treatment the first time,” added Dr. Tanouye. “Comprehensive testing accurately detects vaginitis and STI co-infections, which eases anxiety and discomfort, and helps women get back to their daily lives faster.”

2025-04-08T12:01:00

(BPT) – Every year, consumers spend a lot of money during “celebration season,” which kicks off on Mother’s Day, quickly followed by Father’s Day, graduations, school parties and activities, with Memorial Day BBQs sprinkled in between. But being a host doesn’t have to cost you the most.

“Rising to the occasion during a season of heavy social gatherings and gift giving expectations can take a lot of time and energy — whether you’re hosting, attending or buying,” said Elvira Christiansen, Director of Retail and Loyalty for AARP Services. “With an AARP membership, you can access a wide range of member benefits so you can shop for the best gifts at the lowest prices, find the best restaurants for a celebratory meal or plan your gathering, all with perks.”

From deals on decorations, to steals on gifts and food, AARP member benefits can help you save on celebration season this year and make it one to remember.

1. Unique Gifts from the Past, and Present

No one wants to celebrate Mother’s Day or Father’s Day without a gift showing your appreciation, but it can be easy to blow past your budget without even realizing it. Luckily, FTD offers fresh floral bouquets and planters for every occasion and a wide assortment of gifts to fit any occasion, such as food and drink baskets and customizable sweet treats and desserts. For a limited time AARP members can save 40% sitewide from April 11 until May 11. AARP members automatically save 25% sitewide, 30% off select items with promo code AARP30, and can get $15 off an FTD Plus membership, which includes free shipping for one year.

If you’re looking for something different, give the gift of family history. AARP members save 30% on the first year of an All Access or a World Explorer subscription to Ancestry. Get access to records and online tools to search, save and share family history. If you’re new to Ancestry, you’ll receive the discount on the first year of your subscription only. If you already have an Ancestry account, you’ll receive the discount when you renew your subscription for a year. The bonus gift with this subscription is that it’s an activity that your family can participate in together.

2. Red, White, and BBQ

Throwing a BBQ is a fun way to celebrate Memorial Day, however many party hosts find it challenging to source enough of the right food to satisfy all their guests and meet any dietary requirements. Not a fan of cooking? Don’t want to spend too much on catering? Then AARP has the savings you need to help lift your celebration cuisine to the next level. Members can save 10% on food and nonalcoholic beverages at McCormick and Schmick’s. McCormick & Schmick’s is a seafood and steakhouse restaurant chain known for its fresh seafood, steaks, and a wide variety of bar bites and cocktails, with locations across the U.S.

And, if you’re looking for festive supplies and decorations for your BBQ and don’t have a lot of time to go out and shop, a Walmart+ membership can help save the day, and your precious time. AARP members save $40 off every year of a Walmart+ annual membership, which also boasts free delivery from the store, free shipping with no order minimum, and so much more.

Looking for a venue away from home for your fill of ribs, steaks and burgers? Outback Steakhouse has your back. Members save 10% on food and nonalcoholic beverages and dine-in service is available at all locations, while curbside carryout is available at participating locations only.

3. Celebrate Savings on the Go

If you’re traveling for a celebration occasion this season, choose Choice Hotels^® for an affordable stay. For a limited time, members receive a 15% discount off the Best Available Rate (BAR) for stays at participating Choice Hotels brands in the U.S. including Cambria^® Hotels, Comfort^® Hotels, and Country Inn and Suites^® by Radisson, for a minimum of one night, booked between March 30, 2024, and May 4, 2024, with stays completed by May 18, 2024. Guests must show valid AARP membership at check-in, and the promotions exclude certain rates, reward night stays, complimentary rooms, and other specific exclusions.

And, if you’re worried about running into pesky car troubles on your trip, AARP can help you 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, including access to assistance for towing, jump-starts, tire changes, lockout assistance, fuel delivery and more.

4. The Perfect Gift is a Stream Away

If you’re not sure what to get for the new graduate in your life, give the gift of binge watching their favorite movies and shows with Paramount+. AARP members can save 10% on any Paramount+ plan and can start streaming over 45,000 episodes and blockbuster movies, live sports, news and exclusive originals all in one place.

Planning celebrations can take its toll if you’re not careful. Breathe in and take a step back this year and let your AARP member benefits help you get ahead and find the best perks for everything you need.

To learn more about the benefits and discounts for AARP members to help you prepare for celebration season, please visit aarp.org/save.

AARP member benefits are provided by third parties. AARP receives a royalty fee for the use of its intellectual property. These fees are used for the general purposes of AARP. Provider offers are subject to change and may have restrictions.

2025-04-07T10:01:00

(BPT) – In celebration of National Grilled Cheese Day, Borden^® Cheese surveyed over 2,000 Americans on their grilled cheese preferences. The results are in! Turns out that what makes a grilled cheese perfect is very personal! From bread and cheese to everything in between, America is split on grilled cheese preferences. Here are the five most important factors to help you make the perfect grilled cheese sandwich.

1. Consider your base

The type of bread you pick for your sandwich says a lot about you. Are you a traditionalist who uses white bread or a health-conscious eater who prefers whole wheat or rye bread? No matter which bread you use, your base should complement how much cheese you plan to use.

According to the survey, 57% of grilled cheese makers use two slices of cheese, so an average slice of bread should be plenty. However, if you’re part of the 17% that use 3 slices, consider choosing a thicker base to avoid a soggy sandwich.

2. Spread butter or mayo to the edges of the bread

To ensure that your family enjoys every bite of their cheesy dish, make sure to spread butter or mayo to the very edges of the bread. This easy trick ensures there are no dry bites, elevating the taste and texture of your grilled cheese.

3. Don’t rush perfection

How do you like your bread toasted? What’s right for one person isn’t right for all.

According to new data from Borden, one in 10 grilled cheese enthusiasts swear by a deep, burnt toast char for their bread. However, the majority (seven in 10) insist on a golden-brown crisp. If you’re in the latter camp, remember that low and slow is the key to a truly chef-worthy grilled cheese.

Keeping an eye on toast levels is especially important if you’re making this lunchtime classic for your kids. According to Borden’s report, nearly one out of every three parents have remade a grilled cheese because the toast level wasn’t quite right.

4. Pick the right cheese

Now it’s time for the star of the show! The type of cheese you pick can make or break your sandwich. When it comes to the type of cheese, the survey found that American (49%) and Cheddar (46%) dominated the rankings, proving that the most iconic melts are built on tradition. However, the more experimental grilled cheese connoisseur may opt for underdogs like Mozzarella (27%), Swiss (22%), Pepperjack (21%) and Colby Jack (20%).

No matter which type of cheese you choose, remember, grilled cheese is better with Borden. Borden offers many varieties of cheese to make your sandwich truly your own. Best of all, Borden Cheese is made with real dairy from American dairy families and delivers the rich, creamy melt that turns a simple sandwich into a crave-worthy classic.

5. Don’t forget to consider toppings

Nearly half of grilled cheese eaters surveyed were purists, sticking to the basics of cheese and bread to achieve an ooey-gooey sandwich. However, you can get creative by adding your favorite meats, veggies and spreads. The important part is that you make your grilled cheese your way.

Using these five tips, you can make the best grilled cheese that’s perfect just for you. To find more cheese tips and cheese products that suit any taste, visit BordenCheese.com.

Hungry? Here’s how to win free cheese for a year

Starting on Grilled Cheese Day, April 12, and running all month long, Borden is celebrating all things cheese, and you can be part of the fun. You can win a variety of delicious prizes, from 100 instant-win swag packs featuring Borden coupons and fun branded merchandise to cheese for a year.

One grand prize recipient will receive everything needed to create the ultimate grilled cheese experience: a year’s supply of personalized cheese selections and a gourmet panini press to perfect their melt at home. Visit WinFreeBordenCheese.com for your chance to win.

Survey Methodology. All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. Total sample size was 2,515 adults, of which 2,330 make grilled cheese sandwiches. Fieldwork was undertaken between March 17th – March 19th 2025. The survey was carried out online. The figures have been weighted and are representative of all US adults (aged 18+).

2025-04-07T09:01:00

(BPT) – Wellness is a full-body experience that requires creativity to avoid burning out and losing sight of your end goal. Ahead of National Exercise Day on April 18, Sports RD, Dawn Jackson Blatner, is sharing six expert-approved tips to keep your exercise routine fun while incorporating proper recovery habits — like eating almonds for their exercise recovery benefits — during the day to keep your goals on track.

1. Nourish your body to feel good

Wellness isn’t about perfection — it’s about treating your human body with the gratitude and care it deserves. Focus on eating and moving in ways that feel good and energize you. Just one serving of almonds (23 almonds) has 6g plant-based protein, 4g fiber, riboflavin (25% DV), hard-to-get magnesium (20% DV), antioxidant vitamin E (50% DV), 13g of good unsaturated fats, and only 1g saturated fat. They are a simple way to fulfill your body’s needs and stay satisfied longer. When you focus on what makes you feel good, wellness becomes a lifestyle.

2. Set intentional goals

Life can be fast-paced and full of curveballs, but setting intentional goals like exercising more, eating better, or improving sleep can help you stay focused and on-track. I set goals by “gamifying” them to stay motivated and engaged. This means I set mini-challenges, track my progress, and then level up to keep it fresh. For example, I’ll give myself a 7-day challenge to drink water before my coffee every day or add an extra 30-minute daily walk. If I get 100%, I’ll move on to a new challenge, just like making it to the next level in a game.

3. Exercise recovery is key

Through my experience in sports dietetics, I’ve discovered that focusing on proper recovery is one of the best additions to any routine. Exercise recovery isn’t just about rest though, it’s about providing the right nutrients to rebuild and strengthen your body. Without proper recovery, soreness and exhaustion can steal your motivation. Build in recovery with nourishing snacks, such as almonds. Almonds are my go-to because research¹ conducted over 4 weeks among 64 healthy, non-smoking male and female U.S. adults ages 30-65 who are occasional exercisers shows that eating 57g of almonds daily supports a positive influence on metabolic health.

These study results show that almonds are an ideal food to support muscle function and recovery. The best part? It doesn’t matter when you eat your almonds. This small step can make a big difference in recharging your body and crushing your wellness goals!

4. Beat burnout by adding joy to your wellness routine

Burnout happens when wellness feels like a chore — but it doesn’t have to! The key is adding positivity and fun. Enjoy vibrant, colorful meals that make you smile and move your body in ways that feel exciting, like dancing or jumping rope. When joy leads the way, wellness feels fun and totally doable!

5. Make snacking easy and fun

Busy days can make it tough to eat well, but a mini snack box is the perfect anytime solution! My personal favorite includes veggies like carrots or celery, cubed cheese and a crunchy nut, like almonds, for extra nutritional benefits.

6. Celebrate the small wins

I worked as the head dietitian for a professional baseball team for 10 years and I have a game-winning ring to show for it! I’ve realized that you can’t win the championship without focusing on one game at a time. Try your best each day and recover so you can get back out there. When you celebrate small wins, it keeps you energized to keep going after your dreams.

Wellness and exercise don’t have to be boring, so take control of your journey and get creative to avoid burnout and stay on track with your goals! Check out almonds.com for more information on how you can make the most of your wellness routine.

[1] Nieman, D. C., Omar, A. M., Kay, C. D., Kasote, D. M., Sakaguchi, C. A., Lkhagva, A., Weldermariam, M. M., & Zhang, Q. (2023). Almond intake alters the acute plasma dihydroxy-octadecenoic acid (DiHOME) response to eccentric exercise. Frontiers in Nutrition. DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2022.1042719.

2025-04-03T15:31:00

(BPT) – By Amber Tialino, senior vice president and general manager of Spend & Expense at BILL

Today’s business landscape is more competitive than ever. Businesses are fighting every day to win — and keep — their customers while laying the foundation to drive long-term growth and continued success.

From maximizing cash flow and profitability to controlling expenses and tracking expenditures, effective financial management often determines the survival of small and midsize businesses (SMBs). That’s why businesses seeking to improve their financial health and better serve their customers should seek solutions that allow them to effortlessly control and manage spend, freeing up time and resources for more strategic activities that drive growth.

A comprehensive solution SMBs should consider is a corporate card program. In the past, businesses have often used personal cards or have had to endure time-consuming data entry and paper trails when managing expenses. However, the right card solution with integrated expense management software can facilitate better oversight of capital and controls while streamlining financial operations across the organization and eliminating tedious expense reports.

When implementing a corporate card program, SMBs should carefully evaluate their options. Selecting the card solution that best aligns with their business objectives and unique needs is critical. This process should consider several key factors that can significantly impact their business’s financial health and operational efficiency.

Credit versus charge cards: What’s right for you?

First and foremost, businesses must decide between a credit card and a charge card. Both credit cards and charge cards can offer convenient payment processing and integrate seamlessly with software. However, they operate on fundamentally different principles.

Credit cards provide flexibility to pay overtime but come with a significant drawback: high interest charges that can eat into an SMB’s profits. On the other hand, charge cards require full payment each month, eliminating interest charges while providing the benefits of real-time expense tracking, spend controls and automated expense management capabilities. For SMBs focused on maximizing cash flow while minimizing unnecessary expenses, charge cards are often the more appealing option.

Tailor rewards to fit your business needs

Different cards offer different benefits, from cash back to travel rewards to rebates to vendor-specific discounts. SMBs should evaluate these programs based on their unique spending patterns and choose the card that will serve them the best.

The ideal card program should offer customizable rewards that align with the business’ primary spending targets and expense categories and provide meaningful value to both the company and its users. Some cards even allow businesses to choose their reward categories, ensuring maximum benefit from their regular spending patterns.

Elevate the employee experience

During the decision-making process, SMBs should prioritize the employee experience, as staff members will be the primary card users. The best card solution should offer a seamless, user-friendly experience for making payments and managing expenses.

Essential features businesses should look for include simple receipt capture and submission processes, intuitive mobile apps that complement online platforms and easy expense tracking capabilities. Employees should also be able to monitor their spending against budget guidelines and expense protocols easily while management maintains comprehensive oversight across the organization.

For an organization like Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals with 170 children’s hospitals across North America, every dollar spent and saved is so meaningful. The business searched for a new spend and expense management solution, and switched to BILL Spend & Expense, which saved them money, provided 1% cash back on purchases and ultimately made the experience for their team much easier.

“A huge, awesome thing about moving over to BILL was the ability to instantly connect receipts to transactions,” said Burke Bess, Vice President of Finance, Accounting and Data Analytics at Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. “And BILL was just a very user-friendly system compared to what we had before.”

Optimize cash flow with integrated systems

Another vital consideration SMBs should evaluate is how well potential card solutions connect with their existing business tools and platforms like travel booking systems, accounting software and other operational tools. The card system should also offer built-in controls for expense-type restrictions, such as merchant controls to limit the amount spent on a single transaction — automatically enforcing company spending policies.

Perhaps most importantly, SMBs should prioritize cards that integrate seamlessly with their automated financial platforms to help optimize cash flow. Ideally, the card solution would synchronize card payments with all other financial operations, including accounts receivable, billing and payroll systems. This integration provides business owners and managers with a comprehensive view of their financial metrics and cash flow, facilitating more informed decision-making and strategic planning for the future.

SMBs that are in the middle of rapid growth can especially benefit from system integration features. FairWave, a specialty coffee collective, for example, adds new brands every three months. Keeping track of spend and expenses for all of these brands was time-consuming and took valuable time away from day-to-day operations.

After implementing BILL Spend & Expense, the company saved over 144 hours per year in their monthly close alone.

“Think about the sheer number of receipts. It takes so many hours to chase those down and figure things out when you have to do it by email,” said Derek Braun, FP&A Manager at FairWave. “Today, 98% of our credit cards are managed through BILL Spend & Expense, so everything’s in one place. Every card user across all our brands. Every receipt. They can just take a photo and add the receipt to the app. BILL has reduced our close cycle by at least 12 hours.”

Choose a solution that supports every step of your business journey

Implementing the right card system offers more than just convenience. It’s a strategic investment in business success. By carefully evaluating card type, rewards structure, user experience, system integration and financial platform compatibility, SMBs can select a card solution that not only meets their current needs but also supports their long-term growth objectives.

Businesses looking for a more controlled way to spend and create a strong financial management foundation should consider the BILL Divvy Card powered by Visa*, available as part of BILL Spend & Expense. Unlike other corporate credit cards, the BILL Divvy card is the only solution that provides SMBs with corporate cards, spend controls, flexible rewards and expense management software (at no extra cost) all rolled into one.

By streamlining efficiency, this corporate card program allows SMBs to focus on what matters most: growing their business and serving their customers. To learn more, visit bill.com/signup.

*The BILL Divvy Card is issued by Cross River Bank, Member FDIC and is not a deposit product.

2025-04-03T08:01:00

(BPT) – Formal volunteering in America is rebounding. After the pandemic disrupted lives and available time to volunteer, Americans are finding meaningful ways to give back and discover their purpose

The national volunteering rate between September 2022-2023 increased by 5.1 percentage points, a more than 22% growth in just two years.

More than 75.7 million people — or 28.3% of Americans — formally volunteered through an organization in 2023, giving more than 4.99 billion hours of service with $167.2 billion of economic value as part of a growing community of neighbors helping neighbors who believe passionately that tomorrow can be better than today.

In a time of increased loneliness and financial challenges, volunteers of all ages are essential to the nation’s economic and social well-being. They are the lifeblood of schools and shelters, hospitals and hotlines, food banks, and civic, nonprofit, tribal and faith-based organizations across the country.

Volunteers improve their own lives while helping others. Whether they are seeking adventure, ready to change careers or eager to make new friends, volunteering can meet those needs. Volunteer work helps build critical knowledge and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. Research has shown that volunteering can increase a person’s social connections and yields benefits in terms of moderating stress and increasing physical, cognitive and social activity.

Leading volunteer efforts in America is AmeriCorps, the federal agency for national service and volunteering. AmeriCorps provides opportunities for Americans of all backgrounds to serve their country, address the nation’s most pressing challenges, and improve lives and communities.

AmeriCorps offers individuals and organizations flexible ways to make an impact while focusing on six key areas.

• Disaster services: From the storm-swept coasts to wildfire-threatened communities, the nationwide network of trained responders brings hope and help to communities when they need it most. They offer hands-on assistance like mucking and gutting flooded homes, clearing debris and patching roofs, while also connecting survivors to available resources.
• Economic opportunity: Volunteers provide training in hard skills, such as earning degrees and gaining work experience, and essential skills all employers look for, including leadership, problem-solving, teamwork and communication. National service effectively helps create improved job prospects for Americans, particularly in growing sectors like health, construction, tech and energy while helping build members’ resumes.
• Education: Members and volunteers deliver targeted, cost-effective support that schools urgently need. They support students from early education through high school, helping them graduate and prepare for higher education and careers, and provide support for college students and adult learners to succeed.
• Environmental stewardship: Volunteers prevent wildfires, reduce utility costs, expand outdoor recreation, and conserve American lands and waters across the nation. This work protects America’s lands while strengthening local economies through partnerships with hunters, farmers, tribal communities, and others and allows volunteers to leave a lasting legacy.
• Healthy futures: From fighting the opioid epidemic to ensuring older adults can thrive in their own homes, volunteers help improve the physical and mental well-being of Americans. They tackle America’s toughest challenges with boots on the ground, leaving communities stronger, healthier, and better equipped to build lasting solutions for generations to come.
• Veterans & military families: Veterans across the country continue to serve and lead in their communities after military service with AmeriCorps. AmeriCorps members and volunteers also assist veterans and military families, connecting them to education opportunities, jobs, and the benefits they have earned.

Make a difference today! Whether you have an hour, a day, or a year to give, your service can change someone’s life and transform your community. Ready to volunteer? AmeriCorps can connect you to your purpose. Find volunteer and service opportunities that fit your schedule and interests at AmeriCorps.gov/Serve.

2025-04-01T12:15:00

(BPT) – As winter fades and spring approaches, it’s time for homeowners to prepare their homes for the changing season. Freezing temperatures, heavy rains and snow buildup can take a toll on your property, making spring maintenance essential for preventing costly repairs and keeping your home in top shape.

“The transition from winter to spring is the perfect time for homeowners to inspect their property for any damage caused by cold weather,” said Bonnie Lee, Vice President of Property Claims at Mercury Insurance. “By tackling maintenance tasks early, you can prevent small issues from becoming bigger problems as temperatures rise.”

Spring Home Maintenance Checklist

• Inspect gutters and prepare your roof for spring storms: Winter weather can leave gutters clogged with debris. Clear out your gutters and ensure downspouts are secure to prevent water damage. It’s also a good time to check for visible roof damage and trim overhanging branches. For added protection, homeowners may consider sealing their roof deck and asking their contractor about the FORTIFIED roofing standard, as recommended by the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS). These steps can help reduce water intrusion and better prepare your home for severe spring weather.
• Check for exterior damage: Look for cracks in your foundation, siding or driveway that may have developed due to freezing and thawing cycles. Repairing them early can prevent further deterioration.
• Service your HVAC system: Before warm weather arrives, schedule an HVAC tune-up to ensure your air conditioning system runs efficiently. Replace air filters and check vents for proper airflow.
• Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors: Spring is a great time to test alarms and replace batteries to keep your home safe.
• Examine windows and doors: Check for drafts and reseal or replace weather stripping as needed. This helps improve energy efficiency and keeps pollen and allergens from entering your home.
• Inspect outdoor plumbing: Freezing temperatures can cause pipes to crack. Turn on outdoor faucets and irrigation systems to check for leaks before regular use.
• Clean and seal decks and patios: Winter moisture can lead to wood rot and mold. Power wash, reseal and inspect for damage to keep your outdoor spaces in great condition.
• Prepare your landscaping: Trim overgrown branches, remove dead plants, and refresh garden beds with new mulch to encourage healthy spring growth.

“By staying proactive with seasonal home maintenance, homeowners can protect their investment and avoid unexpected repairs,” added Bonnie Lee, Vice President of Property Claims at Mercury Insurance. “A little preparation now can go a long way in ensuring a smooth transition into spring.”

Protect Your Home Year-Round

Seasonal maintenance is key to keeping your home in top condition, but having the right insurance coverage is just as important. Mercury Insurance offers homeowners coverage to protect against unexpected damages and weather-related issues.

To learn more about how Mercury Insurance can help safeguard your home, visit MercuryInsurance.com.