Category: Brandpoint Lifestyle

2025-02-19T12:01:00

(BPT) – When it comes to capturing the magic of sports, you need the right equipment. Every touchdown, goal, foul, and play should be caught with stunning clarity so whether fans are at the stadium or at home, they can enjoy every minute of the game.

That’s why when FOX Network was tasked with airing the live broadcast of football’s Big Game Sunday, Feb. 9, 2025, the vast majority* of lenses used were from a leader in digital imaging solutions: Canon.

Quality equipment delivers captivating moments

Fans across the nation were treated to a riveting experience when they watched the live broadcast of the match between Philadelphia and Kansas City. More than 95% of the lenses used by FOX during the championship tilt in New Orleans, Louisiana, were Canon. That includes 62 broadcast lenses for the live game broadcast and 29 of the 30 total lenses deployed for the pre- and postgame shows.

In the stadium, a total of 16 Canon UJ122x8.2 lenses filmed the live broadcast. Three of those lenses featured new, on-demand optical units. These units help extend the focus range to provide viewers with a shallow depth of field at a distance that would normally require a telephoto field lens.

To capture unique angles from the SkyCam, the FOX crew used Canon’s CJ20ex5B IASE S, a versatile broadcast electronic news-gathering camera with telephoto reach that doesn’t sacrifice a wide-angle view. Also, C300 Mark III cameras (capable of ultra-high frame rates) provided astonishing shots of the 50-yard line.

The professional’s choice

Among the many credentialed photographers at the event, the majority* used Canon equipment, including the company’s EOS R1 mirrorless camera. This camera is geared toward professional still photographers. It brings together Canon’s cutting-edge technology and combines top-class performance with the strong durability and high reliability expected from a flagship model.

“With more than 30 years of experience using Canon cameras, I couldn’t be more pleased with the quality and reliability of their products, especially the new EOS R1 camera,” said Steve Sanders, Kansas City’s team photographer. “As a professional who relies on all types of Canon gear every day, the versatility and outstanding quality of their equipment make Canon the clear choice for my team.”

Jamie Squire, Getty Images’ chief sports photographer, was also impressed with the picture quality and the camera’s ease of use.

“This was the first time using the new Canon R1’s during the Big Game and they performed beautifully,” said Squire. “Even in lower lighting, shooting wide open at 2.8, the autofocus was fast and the images were crisp and razor sharp. The built-in ethernet port and transmission technology allowed me to send images to our team of editors and out into the world within moments of the capturing the action. Additionally, the customization of the buttons and controls allowed for a seamless experience while working, especially during a big event like this when there is no time to be messing around. The Canon system and the knowledge of how to use it provided me with the confidence to perform at my best.”

Outstanding support when you need it most

The photography equipment wasn’t the only Canon presence in the Big Easy. For the title game, the Canon Professional Services (CPS) team was on-site to offer photographers technical support, equipment loan opportunities and clean-and-check services.

This isn’t the first time the company has provided support. As in years past, the CPS team brought in loaner gear to supplement cameras and lenses owned by Canon professionals. Canon technicians were also in attendance to provide cleaning and maintenance services for Canon broadcast lenses to help ensure optimal image quality.

“We are very proud that Canon’s equipment and service support could contribute to the Big Game, which remains one of the world’s most prestigious sporting events,” said Kiyoshi Oka, executive vice president and general manager for Canon U.S.A., Inc. “Helping to provide the tools for photographers and broadcasters to document such an important moment for the culture is a privilege that means so much to us at Canon, and contributing to the enjoyment that millions of people derive from watching the game is a source of pride for our company.”

Never miss a moment

Whether you’re a professional or an aspiring amateur, choose photography equipment trusted to capture every second of football’s Big Game. For more information about Canon’s extensive lineup of professional imaging products, please visit USA.Canon.com/Pro.

*Based on Canon U.S.A., Inc., survey and data as of Feb. 10, 2025.

2025-02-18T09:01:00

(BPT) – Decarbonization and electrification have emerged as defining trends in the heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) sector’s efforts to help combat climate change. In response to the growing call for energy solutions that prioritize both efficiency and sustainability, LG has established the ES Company, a new business division that leverages LG’s HVAC expertise to deliver innovative solutions for a better future.

The ES Company boasts a comprehensive portfolio of HVAC solutions that align with current market trends such as decarbonization and electrification. These include versatile residential air conditioners for various types of housing, commercial air conditioners for buildings, schools and public institutions, and heating solutions that serve as efficient alternatives to traditional fossil fuel boilers. Employing LG’s high-performance core technologies, the ES Company provides the efficiency, reliability and flexibility that today’s customers demand.

The Company’s product portfolio also encompasses chillers based on state-of-the-art magnetic bearing technology. These chillers, known for their performance, precision and adaptability, are increasingly regarded as the optimal class of cooling solution for AI data centers. To meet the rising demand for advanced thermal management in this fast-growing IT segment, LG has partnered with a leading global technology company to build next-generation, sustainable AI infrastructure.

LG recently showcased its latest chillers at AHR Expo 2025, an international HVAC tradeshow held in Florida. Among the innovations on display were the Oil-Free Inverter Centrifugal Chiller, which highlights the company’s sophisticated thermal management technologies, and the new LG Centrifugal Chiller, which utilizes active magnetic bearings to improve efficiency through the inverter system.

Proactively addressing the region-specific HVAC needs of different markets, LG has established a consortium dedicated to R&D for cold-climate heat pumps. The consortium now operates facilities in locations known for harsh winter conditions, such as Alaska (U.S.), Oslo (Norway) and Harbin (China). This focus on creating localized solutions demonstrates LG’s commitment to providing consistent performance and reliability to all customers, regardless of their location.

In September 2024, LG hosted the first-ever meeting of the Global Heat Pump Consortium in Seoul, South Korea. The event brought together LG’s HVAC experts and academic partners to discuss collaborative projects driven by the consortium’s regional clusters. The gathering marked a significant step toward the realization of a new generation of innovative heating solutions.

LG’s latest heat pump technology underscores the company’s commitment to decarbonization and electrification. At the 2025 AHR Expo, the LG Residential Cold Climate Heat Pump earned an Innovation Award in the Sustainable Solutions category for its outstanding performance. This advanced heat pump operates effectively at temperatures as low as negative 35 degrees Celsius (negative 31 degrees Fahrenheit), maintaining full heating capacity at negative 25 degrees Celsius (negative 13 degrees Fahrenheit), and 70 percent capacity at negative 35 degrees Celsius (negative 31 degrees Fahrenheit). This impressive solution will launch* in the U.S. in February and in Europe in the second half of the year.

LG’s competitive advantage in the HVAC sector is significantly bolstered by the success of its components business. Through the in-house development of essential components, such as compressors and motors, LG is able to ensure the quality, performance and reliability of its diverse HVAC offerings. The company’s expanded lineup of Inverter Scroll Compressors, for example, incorporates LG-designed-and-made high-capacity, high-efficiency twin rotary inverter compressors. These solutions, available in variants tailored for the commercial HVAC and residential air conditioning markets, use R32 refrigerant, which has a low Global Warming Potential (GWP) of 675.

From residential water heaters to commercial chillers and everything in between, LG’s products showcase the versatility, innovation and dependability that have made the company one of the most trusted names in HVAC.

As a forward-looking organization and a responsible corporate citizen, LG remains unwavering in its mission to lead the global transition to decarbonization and electrification. Through the establishment of the ES Company, the development of groundbreaking heat pump technology and a strong focus on innovative, high-quality components and core-tech, LG is actively shaping the HVAC industry and paving the way to a more sustainable future.

^* Schedule may change depending on circumstances.

2025-02-18T08:01:00

(BPT) – More people who live with disabilities or age in place are turning to self-direction for the long-term services and supports (LTSS) they need. With self-direction, the person who needs care is in charge of who provides it, when and where. They may also control how to spend a budget authorized by their state Medicaid program, using approved dollars not only to pay people who support them but to access goods and services identified as appropriate for making day-to-day life manageable.

According to AARP, “More than 1.5 million people self-directed the LTSS they receive, including veterans and Medicaid participants, in 2022 and 2023.” The number has grown 18% since 2019, and there is good reason for the uptick. Self-direction gives people autonomy in how they live their lives. It helps people avoid institutional care and remain in familiar home and community settings while receiving the support they need to thrive.

“With self-direction, people who need services are heard. It’s about their goals and expectations, and the focus is on that person’s strengths,” says Pearl Barnett, COO of GT Independence, a financial management services company that helps people manage the payroll and paperwork associated with self-directed programs. “Every person should feel they are involved in their life decisions, such as who they let into their home and who provides intimate personal care, like bathing and dressing.”

Expansion of federal waiver programs and state plan services has increased access to self-directed services. As the uptake grows, more evidence is coming to light about the many ways self-direction is improving lives.

Empowering individuals to make choices

People who self-direct can tailor their support and services to their needs. They are involved in planning, starting with who to hire, including family or friends who may already be sacrificing time and financial security to provide unpaid care. They can also weigh in on which tools and equipment to purchase to assist them in everyday activities.

Self-direction empowers individuals by giving them control over their care and promotes independence. As one participant diagnosed with severe autism relays, traditional care options “became a one-size-fits-all deal, and that wasn’t good enough. [Self-direction] allows me to choose my path in life.”

Studies suggest that self-direction contributes to enhanced quality of life, as self-direction participants report higher levels of satisfaction with services and fewer unmet needs. Overall, their health outcomes are as good or better than those who receive traditional care, and some studies have shown that their families experience less stress and improved dynamics. As one daughter supporting her aging mother says, “It’s helped me to be able to go ride my bike…or take an overnight. I hadn’t been anywhere for two years until we got self-direction.”

Because the person getting self-directed support knows their needs best, they have flexibility to make adjustments as needs and circumstances change, as long as they remain within their program’s guidelines and budget parameters. As cost controls are in place, self-direction programs are generally able to support people at a lower cost than traditional care facilities, while providing more personalized care.

Finding a self-direction program

For individuals and families seeking greater control over long-term care support, a self-direction program may be the answer. Unfortunately, such programs often have limited availability. “Self-direction is life changing, and we’re advocating for it to be an option everywhere for everyone,” says Barnett. “Check with your state’s department that serves older adults and people living with disabilities to see if it’s available or get in touch with GT Independence to be pointed to area resources.”

More information about self-direction can be found at Medicaid.gov and gtindependence.com.

2025-02-18T07:01:00

(BPT) – Spring is just around the corner — and so are those annoying spring allergy symptoms. If your first signs of spring aren’t a robin or crocus in the yard but itchy eyes, wheezing, sneezing and/or congestion, you’ll want to learn the best ways to handle seasonal pollen allergies, which are a type of hay fever.

“Not everyone suffers from severe allergy symptoms, but allergies and asthma are conditions that often require treatment,” said allergist James Tracy, DO, president of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI). “Many people who have allergies, asthma or eczema don’t realize how much better they can feel after receiving appropriate treatment for their condition.”

The expert ACAAI allergists offer their top suggestions for preventing exposure to allergens and treating your symptoms, so you can start enjoying the delights of the season.

Reduce your exposure

If you know which allergens trigger your symptoms, you’ll want to start limiting your exposure early.

• Pollen count: Start monitoring the pollen count in your area now so you can limit outdoor exposure when counts are high. Keep in mind — pollen counts tend to peak midday.
• Close the windows: Resist the temptation to open windows when temps start to warm up. Instead, close windows (in your car and at home) and let your HVAC system filter contaminants like pollen or mold spores in the air.
• Check your filters: Change your HVAC filter frequently, especially during your worst allergy months. Opt for an HVAC filter with a MERV rating of 11 or 12 for best results.
• Leave it outside: Keep pollen and other allergens outside as much as possible by cleaning shoes before entering the house, then taking shoes off and storing them by the door. If you’ve spent time outdoors, you may want to change clothes and launder what you’ve been wearing. Don’t hang bedding or clothes outdoors to dry, as you’ll simply be collecting more allergens to bring inside. Shower before bed so you don’t sleep on pollen that’s accumulated on your body or in your hair.
• Protect your eyes: Wearing sunglasses when you’re outdoors can help reduce exposing your eyes to pollen in the air.

Get tested

Even if you think you know what you’re allergic to, that may not be the full story. And your allergies can change over time. The only way to be sure about what’s triggering your allergies is to get tested by a board-certified allergist. An allergist can work with you to identify your personal allergen sensitivity profile and get your symptoms under control.

Allergists test to determine exactly what’s causing your symptoms, and help you develop a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs. To locate an allergist in your area, visit ACAAI.org/find-an-allergist.

Discover treatment options

If you’ve tried over-the-counter allergy medications and been frustrated by poor results, talk to your allergist about the best treatment options for your situation. Be aware that common over-the-counter medications like pseudoephedrine may be effective, but they also have side effects. Your allergist might recommend a prescription medication instead of over-the-counter treatments.

Depending on the severity of your symptoms, your allergist may also suggest allergen immunotherapy, either in shot or tablet form. Immunotherapy can be a long-term solution to modify your immune system’s response to specific allergens.

“If it seems as though you’re frequently getting sick with cold-like symptoms — especially during spring or fall — and you aren’t sure about the cause, you could benefit from seeing an allergist,” said Dr. Tracy. “Even if you’ve never been aware of having allergies in the past, they can develop over time. Allergy symptoms often have a negative impact on your quality of life, but you can experience relief with a treatment plan that’s right for you.”

Board-certified allergists are trained and experienced in finding the causes of your most troublesome symptoms, so you can find answers — and relief. Learn more about when you should see an allergist at ACAAI.org.

2025-02-14T12:01:00

(BPT) – Tax season is here, and many Americans are eagerly awaiting their tax refunds. While it might be tempting to splurge on something fun, there are other clever ways to use this extra cash to improve your financial budget this tax season. Here are three savvy tips to help you budget your tax refund:

1. Opt for a budget-friendly phone plan

Consider using your tax refund to switch to a more affordable and flexible phone plan. There are various no-contract plans available that can help you save money every month. For instance, you can find deals offering 50% off your Total Wireless 5G Unlimited plan when you bring your own phone and sign up for Auto Pay*. This means you could get one line for just $25 per month, with taxes and fees included, guaranteed for five years.

By cutting your monthly phone bill in half while still enjoying unlimited wireless data, talk and text, you can redirect those savings toward other financial goals.

2. Strengthen your emergency fund

Think of your emergency fund as a financial safety net. Life happens — whether it’s an unexpected car repair or a medical bill, having some extra savings can keep you from going into debt. Savings can start small, and for first-time savers, it can be daunting to put away money. What’s important is to start somewhere and sooner rather than later. Aim to save at least three to six months’ worth of living expenses.

By doing so, you’ll thank yourself for being prepared for those unexpected moments and avoid the stress of crunching numbers.

3. Make home improvements

Your home is one of your biggest investments, so why not put some of your tax refund into making it better? Consider using your tax refund for necessary repairs or upgrades, such as fixing a leaky roof, updating your kitchen, or adding energy-efficient appliances. These improvements can save you money in the long run and prevent small issues from becoming bigger problems.

It will also improve your living space, making your home more comfortable. Additionally, these enhancements can increase your home’s value if you decide to sell or rent it in the future, allowing you to reap the financial benefits of your improvements.

4. Invest in your future

Your tax refund could be the perfect opportunity to set yourself up for long-term success. Whether it’s contributing to a retirement account, such as an IRA or 401(k), it will help you prepare for the future without the worry of not having a fund to rely on.

In addition to retirement accounts, investing in your future can also mean investing in your education and professional development. Enrolling in classes and courses can help you advance your personal learning as well as career aspirations. Many universities and colleges offer in-person or online courses that can fit best into your schedule.

These investments can yield long-term benefits, helping you achieve financial stability and career growth.

By wisely using your tax refund and exploring cost-effective options, you can enhance your financial budget. Plus, you’ll have more peace of mind knowing you’re making the most of your hard-earned money!

*Disclaimer: Offer applies to new customers who activate on a BYO device. Single-line customers on the Total 5G Unlimited plan or higher must enroll in Auto Pay to receive the full promotional discount, which applies the month after enrollment. Available exclusively online and in Total Wireless retail stores. Bring Your Own Phone requires a compatible, unlocked device and SIM. Additional terms may apply. Check compatibility at https://totalwireless.com/activate.byop.landing.serviceprovider.

2025-02-14T11:35:00

(BPT) – Regularly Showing Your Car Some Love Can Save on Auto Repairs

Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to show your trusty vehicle some love, and maintaining it is the best and most cost-effective way to do so. With rising costs associated with operating and repairing a vehicle, Mercury Insurance is offering some tips to reduce running costs while keeping your vehicle in optimal condition. These simple steps can show your second most costly investment how much you care.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that the average cost of car maintenance and repairs is $975 per year, or approximately $80 per month. Several factors are driving up these costs, including complex vehicle technology; specialized tools needed for repairs; a shortage of skilled technicians; and rising labor costs.

“While we recognize that the cost of vehicle ownership is rising, being proactive can dramatically lower the burden of vehicle repairs down the road,” said Kevin Quinn, Vice President of Auto Claims for Mercury Insurance. “We demand a lot out of our vehicles day in and day out, so keeping up with maintenance is critical and there are ways to do so without spending an arm and a leg.”

Here are some points to consider:

• Routine maintenance: Follow your car’s recommended maintenance schedule, including oil changes and filter replacements, to prevent major repairs and save you money in the long run.
• Shop around for quotes: Get estimates from multiple repair shops before committing to a repair.
• Buy your own parts: Consider purchasing parts online and bringing them to your mechanic to install, which can often be cheaper than buying parts directly from the shop.
• Check tire pressure: Regularly monitor tire pressure and inflate them to the recommended level to improve fuel efficiency and tire lifespan.
• DIY simple repairs: For basic tasks like changing your oil, air filter, or battery, consider doing them yourself to save on labor costs when possible.
• Choose a trusted mechanic: Find a reputable repair shop with a good reputation for quality work and fair pricing.
• Address issues promptly: Don’t ignore warning lights or small problems, as they can escalate into more expensive repairs if left unattended.
• Consider aftermarket parts: Depending on the repair, using aftermarket parts can sometimes be a cost-effective option.

By following these recommendations and giving your car some tender loving care this Valentine’s Day, you can reduce the frequency of costly repairs in the future and extend the life of your vehicle and your relationship as well. For more tips on all things related to car maintenance and ownership, visit Mercury’s blog.

2025-02-13T15:17:00

(BPT) – Long heralded as one of America’s top destinations for thoroughbred racing, Oaklawn Hot Springs has solidified its reputation as a premier destination for luxury travel by securing four distinguished recognitions in the 2025 Forbes Travel Guide (FTG) and Star Awards.

This year Astral Spa remains Arkansas’ only Forbes 4-Star-rated spa. Two Oaklawn restaurants, The OAK room & bar and The Bugler, join the Oaklawn Hotel as recommended destinations in the 2025 FTG. The Oaklawn Hotel was previously recommended in the 2024 FTG.

The Forbes Travel Guide is the only global rating system for luxury hotels, restaurants, spas and ocean cruises. Its rigorous evaluation process assesses properties based on service excellence and guest experience. Oaklawn Hot Springs’ inclusion in the esteemed list highlights its commitment to providing outstanding hospitality.

“It is a great honor to have The OAK room & bar and The Bugler join the Oaklawn Hotel as recommendations in the 2025 Forbes Travel Guide,” said Louis Cella, President of Oaklawn Hot Springs. “To have The Astral Spa again rise to the top as one of the few spas in the country to receive a 4-Star Rating is astounding. We designed Oaklawn to be a world-class resort that Arkansas can be proud of. These recognitions from one of the world’s preeminent hospitality rating systems confirm that our vision has become a reality.”

Located within the Oaklawn Casino, The OAK room & bar is an elegant dining establishment offering refined dishes, an extensive wine selection and craft cocktails. The Bugler provides a more relaxed yet equally refined atmosphere, serving expertly prepared seafood and steak selections with a stunning view of Oaklawn’s historic racetrack from its spacious outdoor patio.

In addition to being recommended by Forbes’ hospitality experts, The OAK room & bar and The Bugler each received 2024 OpenTable Diners’ Choice Awards, which recognize the restaurants based on feedback from confirmed diners.

Astral Spa is a world-class facility that provides visitors with a customized experience. In addition to standard spa services, Astral Spa offers premium amenities, including a state-of-the-art fitness center, dedicated men’s and women’s wet lounges, and locker rooms equipped with heated loungers, needle showers, steam rooms, infrared saunas, whirlpool tubs, cold rooms and a dedicated co-ed parlor.

Oaklawn Hotel is located adjacent to one of the country’s premiere Thoroughbred racetracks. Fans from across the globe travel to Hot Springs to experience thoroughbred racing at its highest level — the road to the Kentucky Derby begins at Oaklawn. A stay at Oaklawn provides guests with valet services, friendly bellmen, lavish room amenities, outstanding room service, and expert assistance from experienced concierges.

Located in scenic Hot Springs, Arkansas, only minutes from Hot Springs National Park and endless outdoor recreation opportunities, Oaklawn Hot Springs originally emerged as one of the world’s premier thoroughbred racetracks. Today Oaklawn Hot Springs offers guests a variety of leisure and entertainment options including racing, gaming, sports betting, fine dining and live performances. Whether you are seeking horseracing at its highest level, a world-class spa experience or the unique flavors of an award-winning restaurant, Oaklawn is your destination in the beautiful Ouachita Mountains.

Visit oaklawn.com to plan your experience.

Must be 18 for race gambling and 21 for casino gaming. Always bet responsibly. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, please call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.ncpgambling.org.

Please drink responsibly. Learn more at responsibility.org.

2025-02-13T15:05:00

(BPT) – By McAfee

It started with a DM.

For five months, 25-year-old computer programmer Maggie K. exchanged daily messages with the man she met on Instagram, convinced she had found something real.

When it was finally time to meet in person, he never showed. Instead, he claimed he missed his flight and needed money to rebook. Desperate to finally see him, she sent the cash.

Then, silence. His accounts vanished. He hadn’t just ghosted her — he had never existed at all. But Maggie isn’t alone: McAfee’s latest research reveals more than half (52%) of people have been scammed out of money or pressured to send money or gifts by someone they met online.

“I ignored my gut feeling … I sent him $1,200. Then he disappeared,” Maggie told McAfee, hoping that her story would educate others. “When I reported the scam, the police told me his images were AI-generated. He wasn’t even a real person. That was the scariest part — I had trusted someone who never even existed.”

How AI is making romance scams more sophisticated

These scams work because they prey on trust and emotions. And they aren’t just targeting the naïve; anyone, even tech professionals, as Maggie’s case shows, can be fooled.

And romance scams aren’t just happening in dating apps anymore. Social media, messaging platforms and AI chatbots are fueling an explosion of online romance fraud.

McAfee’s findings highlight a staggering rise in:

• AI-powered scams: More than 1 in 4 people (26%) say they — or someone they know — have been approached by an AI chatbot posing as a real person on a dating app or social media.
• Celebrity impostor scams: 1 in 5 (21%) have been contacted by someone pretending to be a well-known public figure. Of those who fell for it, 33% lost money, with an average reported loss of $1,985.
• Fake romance scam websites: In the seven weeks leading up to Valentine’s Day, McAfee blocked a staggering 321,509 fraudulent URLs designed to lure in victims.

The costs: Your time, money, trust and personal data

With 62% of people saying they’ve used dating apps, social media or messaging platforms to connect with potential partners, scammers have a bigger pool of victims than ever before.

Younger users are the most active online daters, with 31% of 18-24-year-olds currently using online dating platforms. Tinder is the most popular dating app overall (46%), with its highest engagement among 18-24-year-olds (73%). Just over 40% of respondents said they use Instagram, 29% use Snapchat and 25% use TikTok to meet potential partners. But these platforms also present new risks, as fake apps designed to steal personal information lurk in app stores.

McAfee researchers found nearly 11,000 attempts to download fraudulent dating apps in recent months. The most impersonated?

• Tinder (55%)
• OKCupid (29%)
• Badoo (7%)
• Hinge (7%)
• Bumble (2%)

Downloading a fake app could expose your login credentials, financial information or even install malware onto your device.

And once money is lost, it’s rarely recovered, as scammers use cryptocurrency, untraceable gift cards and offshore accounts to move stolen funds.

Recognizing romance scam red flags

McAfee researchers urge anyone looking for love online to stay vigilant by following these critical safety measures:

1) Watch for “love bombing.” Scammers overwhelm victims with affection early on to gain trust.

2) Verify their identity. Use reverse image searches and insist on live video calls, which AI-generated scammers avoid.

3) Never send money. No real partner will pressure you for financial help — especially when you’ve never met.

4) Be wary of celebrity DMs. If a famous figure suddenly messages you, it’s likely a scam.

5) Avoid suspicious links. McAfee blocked over 321,000 fraudulent dating sites — avoid clicking on unknown links or apps.

6) Use online protection tools. Tools like McAfee+ can detect and block suspicious messages, phishing attempts and AI-generated fraud in real time. McAfee+ offers maximum identity, privacy and device protection to detect and prevent fraudulent activity before it causes harm.

2025-02-13T02:01:00

(BPT) – Your heart beats about 100,000 times daily, bringing oxygen and nutrients to every cell to keep your body working its best. Just as an engine keeps a car moving, your heart is the driving force that keeps your body healthy and active. And, much like you’d maintain your car’s engine, healthy habits are vital to keeping your heart functioning properly and preventing heart disease — the leading cause of death in the United States.

What is Coronary Artery Disease?

The most common type of heart disease is coronary artery disease (CAD), a condition where plaque builds up in the heart’s arteries and decreases blood flow. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), roughly 21 million American adults have CAD. CAD is known as the “silent killer,” meaning it can progress slowly in patients with no symptoms until it causes a heart attack or other complications.

Ginger Bierdeman, 58 years old, a nurse, avid football fan, and doting aunt, knew she was at greater risk of CAD because of her family history after losing her father to a heart attack. She enrolled in a heart health program through her local hospital and received a standard coronary CT scan of her heart (also known as CCTA). The technology — which studies multiple variables that the human eye can easily miss — uses AI to analyze X-rays to build a 3D model of the heart highlighting areas where CAD is present. The analysis identified areas of concern, specifically a build-up of plaque, which helped her doctor develop her personalized treatment plan. Using what she learned from this analysis, Ginger has started choosing healthier meals, exercising regularly, and taking prescribed medications from her doctor. Now she encourages all her family and friends to get screened so they can also see the full picture of their heart health.

“I think it’s important for everyone to take control of their health,” said Ginger. “If you do have a history of family heart disease, it is especially important that you get all the information you need to make good decisions for your life and lifestyle.”

How do I get screened?

February is American Heart Month, making it the perfect time to take the first step toward improving your heart health. Talk to your doctor about your screening options. In the past, tests to diagnose CAD were often limited to ones that were invasive or not precise enough, which meant extra testing could be required to confirm disease severity and treatment options. One of these, called stress tests, are not always accurate and cannot assess plaque buildup.

Fortunately, newer technologies have become available that allow doctors to detect issues earlier, diagnose CAD more accurately, and develop customized treatment plans that help slow the progression of the disease. CCTA is the #1 test recommended in guidelines by the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology. HeartFlow Analysis is an AI-powered technology applied after a CCTA test that creates a color-coded 3D model of the heart’s arteries showing the impact of plaque, narrowings and blockages. This enables your doctor to better understand the potential effect on blood flow to your heart — information that otherwise would only be available with a riskier, more invasive procedure.

“Advancements in diagnostic technology are making it easier for us to uncover heart issues before they become life-threatening,” said Malissa Wood, MD, Vice President and Chief Physician Executive at Lee Health Heart Institute. “If you have a family history of heart disease, are experiencing symptoms, or want to have a better understanding of your heart health, talk to your doctor about your options.”

To learn more about HeartFlow Analysis, go to: https://www.heartflow.com/learn.

2025-02-10T10:01:00

(BPT) – If you have struggled with fingerprints all over your stainless steel or stubborn stains on your cooktop, now is the time to take your cleaning routine to the next level and upgrade to products that are right for the job. The products you use matter, and Weiman makes products specifically designed for the unique surfaces you need to clean in your home. And their products don’t just clean they are specially formulated to also protect your surfaces and always leave them looking spectacular.

Here are top products and expert tips to help you upgrade your cleaning habits so all your home’s surfaces aren’t just clean for the moment but will be protected and preserved to look beautiful and be easily maintained year-round.

Keep your stainless steel appliances cleaner for longer

Stainless steel appliances bring a sleek, modern look to any home, but they can quickly collect grease, fingerprints, smudges, watermarks and dust. If your stainless steel never seems to stay spotless for long, using the right cleaner can make all the difference.

For a lasting clean and protection against future messes, the Weiman Stainless Steel Cleaner Kit provides everything you need to deliver a streak-free shine while actively repelling fingerprints and smudges. It’s safe to use on kitchen appliances, sinks, range hoods, backsplashes and grills. This three-in-one product ensures easy, long-lasting results:

• Clean: Easily removes fingerprints, smudges, residue and grease.
• Shine: Leaves a brilliant streak-free finish with no residue, unlike all-purpose cleaners.
• Protect: Creates an invisible barrier that resists dust, dirt and fingerprints to keep stainless steel looking beautiful longer.

Make your glass cooktop look like new – without scratches

Glass and ceramic cooktops are sleek and practical for today’s kitchens, but they’re difficult to maintain, especially when dealing with burned-on food, grease and grime. Many all-purpose cleaners and abrasive formulas can scratch these delicate surfaces, making it harder to keep your cooktop looking its best.

For a deep clean without damage, the Weiman Cooktop and Stove Top Cleaner Kit includes everything you need to restore shine and remove tough messes—without scratching:

• Non-abrasive Cooktop 3-in-1 Cream: Apply directly to the cooktop and use the scrubbing pad to break down grease and grime.
• Use the scraper tool to remove any remaining stuck on food, water stains or burn rings.
• Finish by buffing with a paper towel for a polished, streak-free look.

Unlike other cleaners that may be too harsh for glass and ceramic cooktops causing scratches, Weiman’s formula is designed for safe use on major brands, including GE, Whirlpool, Frigidaire and Thermador, helping to maintain the cooktop’s finish.

Pro tip: Always let your cooktop cool completely before cleaning to ensure the best results.

Revive floors for a fresh start

Floors are the foundation of any room’s look and feel, so keeping them clean and well-maintained is essential. Whether you have hardwood, tile, or stone, the right cleaning products help preserve their beauty and longevity.

Hardwood floors add warmth and elegance to a home, but daily foot traffic, kids and pets can cause wear overtime. Weiman Hardwood Floor Cleaner is specially formulated to clean without streaking, dulling or leaving sticky residue. Its pH-neutral formula is gentle yet effective, making it safe for finished hardwood, engineered hardwood, vinyl and laminate flooring. Plus, it’s EPA Safer Choice Certified, meaning it’s safer to use around kids and pets.

Pro tip: For best results, sweep or dry mop first to remove loose dust and debris before applying cleaner.

Tile and stone floors are durable and easy to maintain, but the right cleaner helps preserve their natural shine. Weiman Stone and Tile Cleaner is specially formulated to clean without leaving streaks or residue and is safe for sealed marble, granite, ceramic and porcelain tile, grout, vinyl and any other non-porous hard surfaces.

Pro tip: Avoid excess water or overly wet mops on stone and tile to prevent staining or discoloration.

Protect Sensitive Stone Countertops

Kitchen and bathroom countertops endure daily messes, from spills to watermarks, making regular maintenance essential. Weiman Granite & Stone 3-In-1 Clean, Polish & Protect not only cleans but also helps resist stains while enhancing the natural luster of sealed stone surfaces. Its pH-neutral, non-acidic formula safely removes watermarks without leaving streaks or residue.

Pro tip: To maintain shine and prevent buildup, wipe countertops daily with a soft cloth and use Weiman Granite & Stone 3-In-1 regularly to keep surfaces looking polished and pristine.

Upgrade from an average all-purpose cleaner to products designed for each surface in your home; because the right cleaning solution doesn’t just clean, it protects and preserves for years to come.