Category: Brandpoint Lifestyle

2018-04-13T13:58:00

(BPT) – Prescription drug coverage and medications can be complex territory.

Enter UnitedHealthcare Medicare & Retirement’s Chief Pharmacy Officer Mike Anderson, PharmD, who has spent his career navigating the ins and outs of the Rx world.

Below, Anderson answers some questions people frequently ask about drug coverage and prescriptions.

Q. What’s the difference between PDP and MA-PD plans?

A. Original Medicare doesn’t provide coverage for most prescription drugs, so for help paying for medications, you have two options: a standalone Part D prescription drug plan (PDP) in addition to Original Medicare or Original Medicare and a Medicare supplement plan; or a Medicare Advantage plan with prescription drug coverage (MAPD). Medicare Advantage plans can include additional benefits like dental, vision and hearing coverage, and combine your coverage into a single plan. Both plans are offered by private insurance companies contracted by Medicare.

Q. How do I know if my prescriptions are covered by my Medicare plan?

A. Whether you get coverage through Medicare Advantage or a standalone Part D plan, each has a formulary, a list of prescription drugs covered. Look closely to make sure your medications are covered. Health insurers post plan formularies online, or you can call your plan to request a printed version. Plans can change from year to year, so don’t assume that prescription drugs covered this year will always carry over.

Q. How can I save money while remaining on my medications?

A. There are many ways to do that:

Home-delivery pharmacy benefits can save money and a trip to the pharmacy. Some mail-order pharmacies offer the convenience of ordering a three-month supply of drugs delivered to your home for less than purchasing at a retail location.

If you prefer to visit a pharmacy, check if your plan offers programs or preferred pharmacy networks to help you save on prescriptions.

Switching to generic drugs or drugs on a lower tier of the formulary could also save money. If you are taking brand-name medications now, discuss generic alternatives with your doctor.

Q. Can I split my pills in half?

A. Talk to your doctor about whether pill-splitting for your medication is medically advised. Also, consult your pharmacist on whether the actual pill form presents risks. Some pills are dangerous when split, because splitting affects how quickly the drug is released into your body. Other pills become ineffective when split, because the pill contains a coating to protect it from stomach acid, and splitting the pill breaks that coating.

Q. I take a lot of pills daily. One I take three times a day. Some I just take once. I get busy and forget to take my pills. Can I just take them all in the morning?

A. It’s important to take your medicine as your doctor prescribed it. Some medications need to be taken at specific times to be effective. Plus, taking all your medications at one time can be dangerous as you run the risk of potential adverse interactions, side effects and even overdosing.

Q. I drink smoothies with supplements and take vitamins. Can these have a bad interaction with my prescriptions?

A. If an iron supplement was added to the smoothie, for example, that could reduce the effectiveness of thyroid medication and medication for reflux disease. Talk to your pharmacist and doctor about vitamins and supplements to learn if they could cause a reaction or make your medications less effective.

Q. I just got my medication refilled. It used to be a different color and shape. Why does it look different?

A. More than likely, the pharmacy you use bought their supply from a different manufacturer. Drug companies that make the same medication must keep the chemical formula the same but may change the shape or color. If you verify it’s the same medication and dose, it should work just like before. If you have concerns, talk with your pharmacist.

For more information to help you navigate prescription drug coverage, visit MedicareMadeClear.com.

2018-04-13T10:01:00

(BPT) – From millennials who have been grinding away in the workplace for a few years to Gen Xers looking to move out of their cube, many have been intrigued by the possibility of freelancing.

It means the freedom to set your own hours, to work closely with clients, to be your own boss and have greater control over your career.

According to Forbes, there are 53 million freelancers in America today, and by 2020, it’s estimated that half of the workforce will be doing freelance work, whether full time, as a part-time gig or as their side hustle.

Unlike a traditional job, where you generally don’t need to bring more than a packed lunch to work, freelancing requires a few essential tricks and tools to succeed. Whether you’re looking to start out or refresh your personal brand, homeworking experts cite five important tips to help you succeed at the freelance game.

1. Manage your time. One of the best parts, and the most challenging parts, of freelancing is that you get to make your own schedule. Many find that they need some sort of structure in their day, and for this reason it’s important to have the right time management software. This will notify you of calls, deadlines, track how long you work on a project and more.

2. Get the right laptop. A laptop is your office, your meeting room, your library, your entertainment source and so much more, making it one of the most essential freelancing tools. It’s the lifeline between your business and your clients, so it’s critical to be sure you have the right one. A great option is the remarkably thin and light LG gram. This computing powerhouse comes in 13-, 14- and 15-inch screen options and packs a battery that lasts over 16 hours. Each model weighs about two pounds and for small businesses looking for extra connectivity, LG’s commercial-grade model comes equipped with the Windows 10 Pro operating system. It’s fast, mobile and able to keep up with the daily demands and surprises of the freelancing life.

3. Use professional email and social media accounts. For all work-related correspondence and interactions, be sure to use a dedicated email account. This will make you appear more professional to prospective clients. You should also set up work-related social media accounts where you can post examples of work and professional insights and network.

4. Keep track of finances. For a lot of freelancers who are on the creative side of things, keeping track of finances can be a real challenge. Not only do you have to manage invoices, expenses and make sure you’re getting paid, you also have to keep taxes in mind. That can be a lot of numbers to juggle. The right accounting software can greatly simplify this process and save you innumerable headaches.

5. Find the right space. While freelancing is largely a digital game, and requires the right laptop loaded up with the tools you need to manage your business, you still need to find the right place to work. Some work in a coffee shop and others require a dedicated home office. You might work best in a shared office space. The point is, it’s vital to figure out where you do your best work.

The right software, running on the right computer, and a place you can work are the cornerstones of a successful freelance gig. From there, all that’s needed is your talent and determination!

2018-04-13T07:01:00

(BPT) – A challenge for any entrepreneur is getting access to capital. If you’re like many, you’re constantly looking for ways to reduce expenses and free up cash flow so you can be ready for anything, whether it’s a slow season or an opportunity to expand.

When tax season rolls around, you’re already taking a deep dive into your expenses and income for the past year. Don’t stop when you file. With all that information at your fingertips (and fresh in your mind), it’s a great opportunity to take a big-picture look at the health of your business and make sure it’s running as efficiently as possible.

Use the following tips to take your tax preparation efforts a step further and boost your cash flow in the upcoming year.

Dust off your business plan: No doubt when you started out in business, you were eager to put your vision to paper. Most entrepreneurs get busy with the day-to-day pressures of deadlines, and that vision can recede into the background. Schedule some time with your board members or business partners to revisit and update the business plan. Now that you understand the realities of your market, you should have plenty of ideas on creating the 2.0 version of your enterprise. When finished, it’s important to not allow it to gather dust again. Set goals and schedule check-in meetings with your team to make sure everything’s on track.

Update your budget: The nature of entrepreneurship is being agile in the face of change. Market trends, price changes from vendors and suppliers, effects of new laws and ordinances, even road construction are variable forces that can send anyone’s budget into a new direction. That’s why your budget isn’t ever going to be a spot-on prediction. Think of it as a plan. If you stay on top of it, you can spot the trends early and make adjustments right away so you can reap the full advantage — or head off problems before they become unmanageable.

Check your credit score: If you’re planning to raise capital to expand or make improvements in the next year, checking in on your credit score is an important first step you can take several months before you apply for the loan. Even if you have a business credit score, certain business loans still require a look at your personal credit score, especially if you’re a sole proprietorship. Visit Your.VantageScore.com to find free resources to learn your credit score. There’s also helpful information on what factors influence your score and things you can do that can help increase it over the coming months to help you get the best rate possible.

Create a tax strategy: The tax break Congress passed in December will save small business owners 20 percent on their tax bill this year. In the coming year, small business owners have many opportunities to capture more tax savings with the right plan and strategy. For example, if you’re planning a large equipment purchase, you may find yourself in a better tax bracket in 2019 if you time it before Dec. 31, rather than waiting until the following year as planned. Have a meeting with your accountant to discover more ideas.

Pay down debt: One way to use the windfall of your 20 percent tax savings is to pay down revolving loan debt. Doing so is a great way to raise access to working capital should you need it down the line. Depending on the source of credit, reducing your credit-to-balance ratio is one factor that could raise your credit score. Before you do so, make sure you have enough cash flow to meet your expenses.

Improve accounts receivable: If your business extends lines of credit to your customers, it may be worthwhile to implement a credit check policy on all new customers. Knowing they’re creditworthy before the fact can help you create the appropriate plan for them and protect your business. Credit reporting is also an effective way for even a small business owner to let customers know they are serious about collecting what’s owed. In the end, you’ll get paid faster and increase cash flow.

The life of an entrepreneur means things can change drastically on a dime. A thorough check-in with your finances can put you in the best position for success. To learn more about the tools and solutions offered by VantageScore, visit Your.VantageScore.com.

2018-01-23T06:01:00

(BPT) – Whether you’re looking for a home, a car, a television or a new jacket, the way we shop has changed drastically over the last five years. While these changes can be tied to competition, technology, a global marketplace and other factors, there’s one big influence often forgotten in the conversation — millennials.

Every year the market shifts further toward millennial tastes as companies try to cater to this influential generation and its ever-growing buying power. How big is that buying power? It’s big — research shows that by 2020, millennials will have a combined buying power totaling more than $31 trillion. That’s enough to shake up any marketplace.

The automotive industry is not removed from the power of millennials. Today’s market looks drastically different than it did five years ago because of their influence. Here are five ways millennials have made an impact:

* They do their homework. Millennials research their options thoroughly online to understand their chosen vehicle’s specs, price points, reviews and financing options before ever going to the dealership or speaking with a human being. This leads to a well-informed audience that is very targeted in what they want to buy.

* They look to technology to find facts quickly. Millennials expect easy access to information and have no interest in going from dealership to dealership. Instead, they use technology like AutoGravity, a car-shopping and financing app that allows them to search for any car, new or used, and get lease or loan offers in minutes. AutoGravity brings lenders, consumers and dealers together quickly so millennials can save hours at the dealership. Car buyers can also calculate their monthly payment and expenses. The AutoGravity app has been downloaded more than 1.4 million times and more than $2 billion in financing has been requested.

* They speak out if things don’t match their expectations. Millennials have no time for endless negotiation. If they see the vehicle online, they expect it to be on the lot. And, if a deal exists online, they expect that deal to be upheld in person. Those that have had a poor customer experience are more likely to complain about it through the company’s social media pages. Such criticism can hurt a business, because — according to Adweek — 93 percent of millennials read online reviews.

* They appreciate customer service that goes the extra mile. Millennials enjoy doing their research before interacting with customer service agents, but that doesn’t mean they don’t appreciate those personal exchanges that go above and beyond. Talking to millennial customers through channels they prefer — social media or text — is a surefire way to stand out.

* They bring on the gadgets. In the year 2018, everyone has at least some degree of fondness for gadgets; millennials are right at the forefront. From smartphones to smart homes to tablets and watches, everything is synchronized for an efficient experience. Survey results show that 89 percent of millennials would pay more for a vehicle updated with top-end software. Their passion for technology is fueling the next level of automotive innovation. The growing buying power of millennials is changing markets in every industry. And while millennials may be the driving force, increased technology usage and consumer empowerment benefits members of every generation. Use the tools available to you when making your next big purchase and you won’t regret the result.

2017-12-14T15:19:00

(BPT) – During the holidays, the family road trip takes on a whole new meaning because in many cases it includes everyone — even your pet. And while your pet is certainly on your mind as you pack for the journey, they may not be part of your consideration as you prepare your vehicle for the trip.

Like other family members, however, pets have specific needs and there are things you can do to make your vehicle safer and more comfortable for everyone inside, including your pet.

1. Pick the right vehicle.

You may not have a lot of choice here, but if you do have vehicle options, opt for a choice that will allow more room for your pet. Hatchbacks, for example, provide plenty of space for smaller pets, including room for them to stand up and stretch their legs. If you have a larger dog, then a minivan or SUV is the better choice to provide them the room and comfort they will need.

2. See that your tires are up to task.

The success of your holiday trip and the comfort of your drive for your entire family depends, in large part, on the condition of your tires. “Tires influence braking, steering, comfort, handling and even fuel efficiency,” says Bob Abram, senior product planning manager for Yokohama Tire Corporation. Abram said before you set out on the road, be sure to check your tires’ air pressure and tread depth. “You’ll find the recommended tire pressure in your vehicle’s owner manual or on the inside jamb of your front doors.”

Checking the tread, however, requires nothing more than a simple penny. Place the penny upside down into the crease of your tire tread. If President Lincoln’s head is still visible, your tires are worn and you should get them replaced before beginning your trip.” More info here.

3. Show some restraint.

Whether it’s a full-blown enclosure or a harness, you should have some plan for securing your pet in the vehicle. Research from BarkBuckleUp.com shows that a 60-pound dog traveling in a vehicle at 35 mph will turn into a 2,700-pound projectile in the event of an accident. Investing in an enclosure system protects your pets and you and it also allows you to determine where your pet resides in the car during the trip.

4. The little niceties.

In addition to giving your pet sufficient room, there are other things you can do to make the trip more comfortable for them. Place a liner or cargo area mat inside the car in the area where your pet will be kept and then be sure they have access to food and water, either standing offerings or through your predetermined stops. Spill-proof water bowls are available, as are collapsible or resealable options, for example.

5. Embrace the journey.

In order to make the trip as comfortable as possible for your pet, you need to recognize it may be a longer journey. Walk your dog before you leave and stop every couple of hours to give them a break. Don’t leave your pet alone in the car in very low or high temperatures and once you reach your final destination, take your pet for a nice long walk, it’s the best way to ensure your arrival starts off on a positive note.

2018-02-08T06:01:00

(BPT) – As the Indianapolis Prize announces its 2018 Finalists, a new survey finds that a majority of Americans view animal conservationists as heroes. Learn more about the world’s leading award for animal conservation and the heroes it honors at IndianapolisPrize.org.

2017-12-20T13:31:00

(BPT) – The holiday season is the time to travel, and while memories last forever, there’s nothing like having the perfect picture to bring you back to the happy moments — but how do you get the right shot?

Check out some family-friendly tips for taking candid photos, so you can capture your special memory, just like Naomi Davis of Love Taza.

1. Be prepared. Find whichever camera you are most comfortable with and have it ready to use. Whether it’s a larger SLR or your phone, it’s important to use the camera you feel most confident with and one that is readily available. If you don’t have it handy, then you won’t be ready to capture that special moment!

2. Stop, drop and roll around. When it comes to photographing kids, remember to be patient, get down low and have fun! Try your best not to instruct or situate. Stay away from high-traffic areas, especially if other people are waiting their turn. Give them a holiday-themed toy or some decor to play with, which will help them be themselves. If you’re looking to snap candid moments of your children, it’s most helpful when you don’t already have an idea in mind of how you want the image to come out. Just go with the flow, and amazing photos will follow!

3. Don’t be shy! Take it beyond the family obligations and make extra time to explore your surroundings when traveling. The guidebook is always a place to start, but don’t overlook the real experts on fun things to do: the people who live there. That’s right — don’t be afraid to ask a stranger for an insider’s perspective to land the best local cuisine and those fun holiday displays and happenings. Chances are, you’ll uncover some off-the-beaten-path gems you won’t find in any travel brochure.

4. Make it easy. When you find the perfect setting for your family picture, don’t struggle with a selfie stick. Ask someone nearby to snap the shutter. But make it easy for the person you have solicited to help: Have your group already in place, frame the photo for them and have all the settings prepared, so all they need to do is step in and click the button! We also recommend putting your camera on the “burst” setting, so chances are at least one image will work with everyone’s eyes open! Tip: Keep the framing zoomed further out than normal so you can crop in later. This helps your chances of not accidentally having someone’s head or feet cut out of frame.

5. Food in focus. Visiting family this holiday season? Consider snapping photos of your favorite holiday dish to make it authentic. Don’t be afraid to take a mouth-watering close up of your food, especially when your family’s famous dish is on the table. Having more of a neutral background can help your food pop and remain the focal point. To add that “homey” touch, try taking the image overhead of the entire table — this will also get the entire spread.

To capture a special moment it’s also very important to ensure your family is having a great experience all around. Wherever your holiday travels may take you, choose a hotel that gives you plenty of space and helps you feel comfortable such as Homewood Suites by Hilton. From free breakfast to all suite accommodations complete with a fully equipped kitchen, Homewood Suites provides the conveniences that help families build their own memories this holiday season. For more information, visit hiltonbringit.com and follow the #BRINGIT conversation on social media.

2018-04-06T12:01:00

(BPT) – A lot of golf courses claim to be the best, but Malone Golf Club has the stats to back it up. Located just south of the Canadian border and within sight of the foothills of New York’s beautiful Adirondack Mountains, you’ll find a variety of challenges laid out across an undulating landscape. Read on to learn our six favorite things about Malone Golf Club.

1. It has 36 world-class holes.

Divided over two courses, East and West, the Malone Golf Club’s beautifully manicured fairways were designed by well-known course architect Robert Trent Jones.

2. Malone is the previous home of current PGA Honorary President Derek Sprague.

That’s right, Malone native Derek Sprague worked for the club, including as a director, for 33 years. He isn’t the only celebrity with ties here, though. Baseball legend Babe Ruth paid for the club’s first nine holes and frequently visited the course.

3. Golfweek Magazine and Golf Digest love us.

A 1991 Golfweek Magazine article called the Malone East Course the “best pure classic nine” in the world, noting its “fabulous Redan, a roller coaster short par-five, and pure links-style bunkering.” Golf Digest gave us a 4.5-star rating.

4. The West Course has great features and terrain.

The West Course’s front nine are where it’s at for scoring, while the back nine’s narrow fairways contain a lot of natural hazards. If you’re a fan of making precise shots, well-placed water hazards (who isn’t?), and greens bordered with sand bunkers, this is the place for you.

5. The East Course’s well-designed back nine.

Considered a testament to Robert Trent Jones’ design abilities, the back nine at Malone East includes 90-foot drops from tee to greens and 150-yard carries over spring-fed ponds. The par five 10th hole is notorious for requiring both distance and accuracy.

6. It’s super easy to plan a trip here.

If you know you’re going to stay here, and you know you’re going to golf, why not save yourself some time and money by booking a golf stay and play package? There are a bunch of options — just pick the one that’s right for you and get out on the course! And don’t worry about food, either. We have plenty of restaurants to keep you happy.

2018-04-01T12:01:00

(BPT) – Saranac Lake is a beautiful conglomeration of mountains and people. The downtown captures this essence in a wonderful way — eclectic eateries are interspersed among art galleries, music is on everyone’s mind, and mountains and lakes play peek-a-boo from behind the historic architecture. People visit for a lot of reasons, but they always find more than they expected while they’re here. Still not convinced? Check out these six downtown Saranac Lake draws, then pay us a visit. You’re sure to find a few more things to add to this list!

1. Art is everywhere

A magnet for creative types, Saranac Lake is bursting at the seams with artistic expression. Art openings happen every month, and in summer the downtown galleries overflow onto the streets as artists set up easels and photographers capture the beauty here. Take a workshop if you’re interested in trying something new, or simply grab a sketch pad and find a place to relax — you’re sure to be in good company. There’s also Pendragon Theatre, which has a robust summer performance schedule. Art-centric events include art walks, studio tours and plein air painting.

2. The sound of music

The birds are chirping, people are out and music is in the air. Don’t be surprised to see someone strumming a guitar on a park bench while you’re here — it’s just a warmup for the bigger acts the area draws. This village is big on folk and bluegrass, but lately it’s seen a more eclectic surge of bands playing funk, punk, jazz, jam and blues. Every week in the summer there are two free shows, one in Berkeley Green and the other at the Waterhole’s Party on the Patio, and you’ll find more in the various restaurants, bars and galleries.

3. An event-full calendar

Many of Saranac Lake’s events are centered around music and art, but there’s more to downtown than that. If you’re the sporting type, get ready to race by boat, bike or foot, or get a team together for rugby weekend, an energetic mix of competition and revelry. If you’re more into locally produced goods, there’s a huge farmers market in Riverside Park every Saturday. And even though we already covered music it’d be a shame not to mention Hobofest, a free, all-day, outdoor music festival that caps off the summer in style.

4. Excellent eats

A village with so much going on needs food to fuel the masses, and Saranac Lake doesn’t disappoint. You’ll find a gastronomic-sampler here for any budget. Fill up on classic diner food, grab a deli sandwich or salad to go and eat by Lake Flower, go completely casual at a pub, or spring for one of the fine dining options. There’s craft beer on tap, farm-to-table offerings and plenty of creative chefs to hold your interest and keep your belly full.

5. It’s historic!

A lot of villages have a historic bent, but Saranac Lakers truly embrace theirs. A fun way to explore downtown is to follow the Walk of Fame plaques, which highlight some of the community’s most renowned inhabitants, past and present. Along the way you’ll see notables such as physicist Albert Einstein, composer Bela Bartok, local Olympian Bill Demong and Doonesbury cartoonist Garry Trudeau. For more of a history fix, check out the Saranac Laboratory Museum and the Robert Louis Stevenson Cottage.

6. Nature is close

In Saranac Lake, the woods and waters aren’t just close, they’re easily accessible. Paddlers can pop a boat in the Saranac River and drift away from downtown in minutes, while fishermen and -women can throw a line in the same current without leaving town. For a big-water experience, head to Lake Flower and paddle past mountain-lined vistas to one of the free campsites that are en route to Lower Saranac Lake. If you like to keep both boots on the ground, it’s a short walk to Mount Baker, where a mile-long hike ends at a series of ledges with views of the High Peaks. Road cyclists can begin and end their scenic ride from downtown, and mountain bikers can head to Dewey Mountain or Mount Pisgah to get their ride on.

2018-03-28T07:01:00

(BPT) – While Arkansas is known for its scenic beauty, it is also home to numerous historical sites considered vital in the fight for African-Americans’ civil rights.

Six historical landmarks in Little Rock are included on the new U.S. Civil Rights Trail, which debuted in 2018. The national trail spans 14 states and includes over 100 historic churches, schools, museums, memorial sites and more from the Civil Rights era in the 1950s and 1960s — all of which played a pivotal role in shaping our nation.

Arkansas is a great place to begin one’s journey along the U.S. Civil Rights Trail. The six sites in Little Rock are all within a few blocks of one another and tell the story of Arkansas’ civil rights history:

Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site and Visitor Center — Little Rock Central High School is the only functioning U.S. high school located within a national historic site. It is designated a Top 10 destination along the U.S. Civil Rights Trail. The Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site and Visitor Center is located across the street from the school. It opened in 2007 to mark the 50th anniversary of the school’s desegregation. Inside the center, one will see historic clips, interactive displays and interviews with the Little Rock Nine, the group of students who dared to integrate the formerly all-white Little Rock Central High.

Little Rock Nine Memorial — The Little Rock Nine Memorial pays homage to each member of the Little Rock Nine. The life-size statues are located on the north grounds of the Arkansas State Capitol and each individual is identified on bronze plaques.

Daisy Bates House — A National Historic Landmark, the Daisy Bates House at 1207 W. 28th St. was the home of Arkansas NAACP President Daisy Bates and became the virtual headquarters for those engaged in bringing about the racial integration of Little Rock Central High School. Over the years, the historic site was host to many notables, such as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., future U.S. Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall, Justice Wiley Branton, Federal Agent Ozell Sutton, and actors Ossie Davis and wife, Ruby Dee. The site now serves as the L.C. & Daisy Bates Museum Foundation Inc.

Mosaic Templars Cultural Center — Established in 2001, the Mosaic Templars Cultural Center was founded in Little Rock in 1882 as a fraternal organization. The reconstructed museum, which is dedicated to collecting, preserving, interpreting and celebrating Arkansas’ African-American culture and community, is a must-see stop along the Civil Rights Trail.

Arkansas Civil Rights Heritage Trail — The Arkansas Civil Rights Heritage Trail begins on the sidewalk outside the Old State House in downtown Little Rock and extends along the banks of the Arkansas River down West Markham Street and President Clinton Boulevard to the William J. Clinton Presidential Library and Museum. The trail was created by the Anderson Institute on Race and Ethnicity to acknowledge the sacrifices and achievements made by those who fought for racial and ethnic justice in Arkansas.

Clinton Presidential Center — The 30-acre Clinton Presidential Center is home of the William J. Clinton Presidential Library and Museum and the Clinton School of Public Service. The museum houses a permanent exhibit dedicated to the Little Rock Nine, which includes an interactive display regarding the 40th anniversary commemoration of the Central High crisis. Prior to serving as the 42nd president of the United States, Bill Clinton served five terms as the Governor of Arkansas.

Check out these historical Arkansas landmarks included on the U.S. Civil Rights Trail and more by visiting Arkansas.com.