Category: Brandpoint Lifestyle

2024-08-27T13:01:00

(BPT) – Technology is an integral part of education today. As kids head back to class, it’s crucial to understand the potential digital safety challenges they may encounter. You can equip yourself with the knowledge to educate your children, regardless of their age or grade level, by providing them with tools they need both in and out of the classroom to become responsible digital citizens.

This guide can help you understand some of the risks your kids may face, along with age-appropriate steps to help keep your family safe.

Navigating potential threats

The potential online safety threats your children face and their ability to use and understand technology changes as they grow and develop. Start by setting age-appropriate limits for device use and take time to educate them about potential hazards of the online world. This foundation will help them make smart, informed decisions as they grow and use technology in different ways.

Early introductions to technology: preschool and elementary school

Children’s interactions with technology start even before they enter grade school. During these crucial years, young children use devices to explore videos, play games, complete schoolwork and communicate with friends and family online.

Some of the potential risks at this age include encountering inappropriate content, clicking on dangerous phishing links that may infect their device with malware and even engaging with people they should not.

Start early by setting a good example of responsible digital use. Have open and candid conversations about technology regularly with your children. Reassure them that if they encounter anything online that upsets or scares them, they can talk to you without fear of getting in trouble.

Understand your school’s tech policies and how your kids are being taught to use their devices responsibly. Consider checking out The Smart Talk, a resource created by the National PTA and Norton to help facilitate and guide discussions about safe technology use with your child. Tools such as Norton Parental Control can also help you safeguard your children from online threats by blocking websites and inappropriate content, setting screen time limits and monitoring their activity, including searches and app use.

Growing up fast: middle school and high school

These years can be challenging. It’s when kids engage in more digital exploration, personal communication with friends and expression through social media. Kids will explore a wider range of websites and apps for personal and academic purposes, making them more vulnerable to various online threats. When they use social media and messaging apps, they may also face risks like cyberbullying, exchanging inappropriate content and scams.

Teens can be an easy target for scammers. Educating them about email, text and social media scams will help them better spot one in the wild. Teens should especially be cautious talking to and accepting messages from people they don’t know to ensure their digital and physical safety.

Be open with your child regarding their social media usage and how they engage online, through apps and texts. At this age, teens should understand that once something is online, it lives there forever. Once they send a message or photo, they lose control of where it ends up. Recognize the signs of cyberbullying and encourage your children to confide in you if they experience harassment online or inappropriate messages, such as sexting. Resources like Norton Family can monitor your family’s online presence, protect their devices, manage your teen’s virtual learning environment and even teach them safe online habits. These resources help create a safer, more informed digital environment for your family.

Independent young adults: college

Leaving the nest is a huge milestone that comes with newfound independence and responsibility. It’s crucial for college students to stay informed about risks they may encounter during this new phase of their life.

Young adults manage their own bank accounts, Social Security numbers and sensitive personal information. Scammers target them sometimes disguised as fellow students to access their personal data, steal their identity or trick them into a scam. Using public Wi-Fi networks in coffee shops, dorms or libraries can also leave college students vulnerable to viruses and malware attacks.

Products like Norton 360 with LifeLock identity protection will protect your college student from viruses, hackers and identity thieves. It also includes a virtual private network or VPN to keep their internet browsing private when connecting to public or insecure networks. They can also download Norton Genie, a free scam detector app that leverages AI to identify and avoid common scams in real time.

As a parent, you’ll never stop worrying — but with knowledge about potential threats plus these tools under their belt, you can help your children become smart consumers of technology and educate them on how to navigate the technology needed to get them through school at every age, explore the world, make social connections and learn the skills they’ll need as responsible adults.

Visit Norton.com to learn more about keeping your family safer from online threats.

2024-08-27T08:01:00

(BPT) – Taking care of your health is more important as you age, but one aspect of your well-being that’s often neglected is hearing health. For many, hearing loss is ignored until its effects appear: difficulty socializing, isolation or depression, balance problems and even cognitive decline.

Hearing is an integral part of how everyone interacts with the world, physically, mentally and emotionally. And although hearing loss is not reversible, it can be managed with proper intervention.

Here are tips to help you protect your hearing while engaging in activities you love, so you can continue to enjoy them for many years to come, plus advice for checking your hearing status and benefiting from the latest hearing technology.

How loud is too loud?

According to the National Institutes of Health, extended periods of exposure to sounds at or above 85 A-weighted decibels (dBA) can cause hearing loss. For perspective, your lawnmower produces 80-100 dBA, and fireworks 140-160 dBA. Many common activities can impact your hearing over time, leading to hearing loss, tinnitus (ringing in your ears) and balance issues.

For this reason, it’s important to wear hearing protection when engaging in any loud activities, just as you wear sunscreen to protect your skin while outdoors.

Because damage to your ears is cumulative and may not be realized until later in life, the time to protect them is now.

Occupational hazards — at home

While the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has required the use of hearing protection for fields like manufacturing, construction and transportation with exposure to sound at or above 85 dBA since 1981, it’s not something you may think about when working around the house.

However, while doing yardwork or home projects with power tools, lawnmowers and leaf blowers, hearing protection is recommended just as if you were on the job.

The sound of music

If you love attending concerts or play an instrument yourself, too much exposure can be detrimental to your hearing. The National Institutes of Health advises trying inexpensive single-use foam ear plugs to help protect your ears from occasional exposure to loud music and other sounds.

Recreational noise

The same goes for many other activities that can generate loud sounds. If you enjoy motorcycling, snowmobiling, shooting or motor boating, hearing protection is always a good idea. Even typical sporting events can range from 94-110 dBA, making them among the noisiest environments people are regularly exposed to.

How to determine noise levels

If you’re concerned about noise where you frequently spend time, there are some downloadable apps for your smartphone that can gauge the decibel level for you to help you determine if you need hearing protection.

What to do if you notice hearing loss

If you frequently miss parts of conversations or often ask people to repeat themselves, it’s possible hearing loss is the culprit. Other clues: you turn up the TV or radio louder, or you hear intermittent ringing or buzzing in your ears.

The best way to know is by taking a hearing test. Try an easy, convenient online version like the one at LexieHearing.com, developed to identify the possibility of some forms of hearing impairment. It’s always advisable to consult with a hearing health professional if you’re concerned about your hearing.

Good news about today’s hearing aids

Hearing aid technology has come a long way in recent years. In October 2022, the FDA established a new category of over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids for adults 18 and older with perceived mild-to-moderate hearing loss in order to increase the public’s access to hearing aids and improve overall hearing health. These new hearing aids are available at retail stores nationwide without a prescription.

For example, Lexie Hearing provides its newest Lexie B2 Plus hearing aids direct to persons 18 and older with perceived mild-to-moderate hearing loss, along with free lifetime Lexie Expert support. Their FDA-cleared, rechargeable hearing aids offer clear, quality sound powered by Bose, which provides up to 18 hours of run time on a single charge.

Some OTC options — such as the Lexie B2 Plus Hearing Aid — are also FSA and HSA eligible, and available through some insurance hearing health plans.

The importance of hearing

For anyone with mild-to-moderate hearing loss, being able to hear your friends and loved ones, as well as participating in everything you love, makes all the difference for your physical, mental and emotional well-being. Using hearing aids may help slow the risk of cognitive decline for some, and even improve your interpersonal relationships.

Being able to fully participate in your active life for years to come is well worth the effort of protecting your hearing — and successfully managing the hearing loss you may already experience.

In honor of Healthy Aging Month, learn how to stay fully engaged in your life at LexieHearing.com.

2024-08-27T09:31:00

(BPT) – In the stillness of early morning, the light of dawn peeks over the horizon, casting a bright light across the water. For many women, from the boat or river in which they stand, these moments spark introspection and can lead to a journey of self-discovery that allows them to find a more confident and resilient version of themselves. Research done by Take Me Fishing and Ipsos supports this journey, finding that women who fish have higher self-esteem and greater perseverance. Female anglers surveyed as part of the study also said that fishing teaches them patience and helps them develop confidence.

There are countless examples of women finding more than just fish in the water. From those whose culture is deeply ingrained in fishing to women who learned how to fish and walk at the same time to others who returned to fishing in adulthood — they’ve all found the best versions of themselves on the water.

Rooted in Culture and Purpose

Ashley Nichole Lewis, a 142nd-generation angler, views fishing as a meaningful connection to her ancestors and the Quinault people of the Pacific Northwest. From a young age, Lewis found solace and inspiration in the tranquility of the water.

“When I’m out fishing, I get to be with myself and tap into a huge ecosystem of life, it gives me a chance to reset mentally,” said Lewis.

Through fishing and boating, she feels connected not only with the past, but it also allows her to see a strong future for herself. Lewis has completed undergraduate and graduate degrees and is currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Indigenous and Environmental History at the University of California, Davis.

“Being on the water gives me this North Star, this compass to what happens next,” said Lewis. “I never thought I would go to college or graduate school. Not only do I find my best self on the water, but I’m also given further direction to what my best life looks like.”

Finding Movement and Mindfulness

Lindsay Kocka first fell in love with fishing as a young girl at her family’s cabin in Minnesota. Over the years, she’s experimented with many types of fishing, but found herself drawn particularly to fly fishing. Now, as a fly fishing, wellness and yoga educator in Montana, she uses fishing to connect with nature, practice mindfulness and share her passion.

“When I’m fishing, I feel connected and integrated in my body outdoors,” said Kocka. “It’s soothing for the nervous system, relaxing and exciting at the same time. It’s important to me to pass along this feeling to other women so that they can reap the same benefits I’ve found.”

Kocka founded Wade Well, a functional movement, mobility and mindfulness method for fly anglers. Through Wade Well, she empowers new anglers and enables seasoned anglers to continue fishing long term, ideally while maintaining pain-free movement. Nearly half of women who fish say fishing teaches them patience, and Kocka’s method reinforces that, along with sharing the other benefits of fishing and boating like joy and mindfulness.

Fostering Connection and Confidence

Angelica Talan, content creator and influencer, remembers learning how to fish with her uncle when she was 7 years old, only to stop a few years later. Just like Talan, many girls who start fishing drop out before the age of 12 (an 11% higher rate than boys). It wasn’t until her daughter found an old picture of her fishing that she was inspired to get back on the water, this time with her daughter.

“Fishing provides a unique avenue for empowering women and fostering independence,” said Talan. “Fly fishing has helped build my self-confidence so that I can empower my daughter to grow her confidence and sense of achievement.”

Now, Talan is an avid angler, and credits fishing with enriching her life by combining adventure and tranquility, which she needs as a mom. She also turns to nature as an escape from her busy life and to connect with her kids on the water.

“Fly fishing in particular brought me closer with my family because we’re learning something new together,” said Talan. “Fishing is a confidence booster for me as a mom. It’s helped make me a better mom because it’s allowed me to show my kids a new skill set and passion.”

Getting More Women on the Water

The unique journeys of these women share the same core values: confidence, patience and purpose. And while their relationships to fishing and boating are all different, they have a similar craving while on the water: more female camaraderie. They believe that getting more women on the water benefits not only those individuals, but everyone around them.

“The female connections I’ve found through fishing have been a great source of support, knowledge sharing, friendship and mentorship,” said Talan. “Fishing has been the most transformative experience for me, and it’s enriched my life in ways that make an impact on my kids and hopefully their friends and future generations.”

For many women, fishing and boating is more than an activity — it’s a journey of self-discovery. Sometimes, the best way to find yourself is to be on the water, cast a line and wait for a bite. To get started with your fishing and boating journey, visit takemefishing.org.

2024-08-27T08:07:00

(BPT) – Have you ever had to skip a fun event with friends due to a temporary lack of cash? If you find it challenging to get through each pay period without running out of money, you’re not alone. According to a recent CNBC/Survey Monkey survey, 65% of Americans currently live paycheck to paycheck.

To better understand the challenges presented by the outdated two-week pay cycle, Chime, the #1 most-loved banking app in the country, partnered with 72Point to learn more about how this system doesn’t support people’s everyday needs. In the survey,* 3 in 5 Americans (59%) say they experience “pay paralysis” — a wave of anxiety or fear due to low funds between pay cycles.

How does that impact daily life? Almost 3/4 of Americans (72%) have had to miss events for financial reasons, including nights out with friends (39%), weekend getaways (34%), concerts (28%) and even weddings (11%).

The good news is, there are ways you can control your money better, to help you handle unexpected emergencies — or participate in events that are important to you. Financial activist and coach Dasha Kennedy offers her tips and tools to help you with smarter money management.

“Not only are 72% of Americans spending most of their paycheck on paying bills, 69% say that’s the first thing they do when receiving their paychecks,” says Kennedy. “Rising costs are impacting Americans’ finances in more ways than one, so it’s important to prioritize your financial well-being.”

Know your numbers

It’s important to have a clear sense of what’s coming in (your paychecks) — and what’s going out (what you spend every month). Writing down your monthly income and comparing it to necessary bills (rent, utilities, insurance, food, transportation, etc.) and what you like to spend for fun or entertainment will help you understand where your money’s going.

“If you’re having a difficult time figuring out your spending patterns, pull your bank statements or credit card statements, whichever account you use to charge your monthly expenses, and highlight every item that was not an essential expense in one color, and every item that was an essential expense in another color,” says Kennedy. “Then you can start identifying cost-cutting and income-increasing measures. For example, eating at home more often can save a lot over time.”

Make a plan

Setting financial goals can help you stay focused. For example, regularly saving toward an emergency fund can help you weather unexpected expenses, or you can save toward a trip or concert tickets you really want. Just be sure to check how you’re doing monthly so you don’t lose sight of your goals.

“The best way to improve your financial future is to create a plan, then check up on it regularly,” Kennedy says. “Stay on track and you’ll be glad you did!”

Create a bill calendar

Keep a calendar with all your bill due dates on it. If you see too many bills due around the same time — like right before your payday instead of after it — try calling your credit card and/or utility companies to ask if they can adjust your monthly due dates. Some companies will change that date, so it’s definitely worth asking. This can help ease a cash crunch at a certain time each month.

Avoid cash crunches with MyPay™ from Chime

Whether you want to grab those concert tickets while they’re on sale, buy a gift for your friend’s wedding or just make sure to pay a bill on time, MyPay™ allows those with an immediate need for money a simple way to access up to $500 of their pay before payday.

MyPay™ is available directly in the Chime app, so members can conveniently access their pay without having to download any extra apps or sign up for a separate subscription. Chime members become eligible to enroll in MyPay by receiving qualifying MyPay™ direct deposits of $200+ into their Chime checking account, plus other qualifying criteria.**

Eligible members can access $20-$500 each pay period (the amount may increase or decrease over time). They simply select how much they’d like to have advanced, and it’s deposited directly into their Chime checking account within 1-2 days, fee-free. Members can also opt to get funds instantly for a flat fee of $2 per advance. There are no other fees, tipping or subscriptions required. Repayment is automatic: The balance is simply repaid when the next direct deposit arrives.

“Nobody wants to endure an emergency or miss out on important life events or fun activities,” says Kennedy. “Creating a plan, building an emergency fund, and taking advantage of tools that can help you access your own money before payday will all help you enjoy each month with a lot less financial stress.”

Learn more about MyPay™ at chime.com/mypay.

* Survey methodology: This random double-opt-in survey of 2,000 employed Americans split evenly by generation (500 Gen Z, 500 millennials, 500 Gen X and 500 baby boomers) was commissioned by Chime between April 25 and April 29, 2024. It was conducted by market research company Talker Research, whose team members adhere to the American Association for Public Opinion Research (AAPOR) Code of Professional Ethics and Practices. Researchers are also members of the Market Research Society and the European Society for Opinion and Marketing Research (ESOMAR).

** To be eligible for MyPay, you must receive Qualifying MyPay Direct Deposits to your Chime Checking Account as set forth in the MyPay Agreement. A Qualifying MyPay Direct Deposit is a deposit from an employer, payroll provider, gig economy payer, government benefits payer, or other permitted source of income by Automated Clearing House (“ACH”) or Original Credit Transaction (“OCT”). Your MyPay Credit Limit and Available Advance Amount may change at any time. MyPay is a line of credit and available limits are based on estimated income and risk-based criteria. Eligible members may be offered a $20 – $500 Credit Limit per pay period. Your Credit Limit and Available Advance Amount will be displayed to you within the Chime app. MyPay is currently only available to eligible Chime members in certain states. Other restrictions may apply. See MyPay Agreement (The Bancorp Bank, N.A. members) & MyPay Agreement (Stride Bank, N.A. members) for details.

2024-08-26T10:01:00

(BPT) – Fall is the perfect season for a getaway, and Rapid City, South Dakota, stands out as an ideal destination for those looking to explore the Midwest. Nestled in the heart of the Black Hills, Rapid City offers a blend of outdoor adventures, national parks and monuments and diverse culinary experiences amidst the stunning beauty of autumn.

From food lovers to history fanatics, here are three ways to enjoy Rapid City in the fall:

Taste South Dakota’s culinary scene

Anchoring western South Dakota and the Black Hills, Rapid City is the perfect place to base a trip. Abundant in agriculture, it’s no surprise that South Dakota has robust culinary offerings. Start by sampling the state’s signature dish, chislic — a deep-fried red meat that’s usually served on skewers — at Gold Bison Grill or Murphy’s Pub & Grill. End a meal with kuchen (pronounced koo-ken), a style of cake that is also the state’s signature dessert — try different delectable versions at Dakota Steakhouse or Fork Real Café.

Other top culinary options include Bokujo Ramen, where the chef combines ingredients from South Dakota — like bison — with traditional Japanese dishes; savor creative dishes and fresh seafood (flown in) at the new Tandoor Bocado; dig into a perfectly cooked steak at Delmonico Grill and enjoy handmade pasta at Sabatino’s Italian Ristorante. Creative cocktails are also on the menu at Windsor Block Bar. For a different style of flavor, swing into South Dakota’s only Diamond Crown Lounge, the Tinder Box Rapid City, to sample an array of cigars.

Funky fall festivals

With a population of approximately 75,000, Rapid City provides a more intimate and navigable experience compared to larger cities in the Midwest. This time of year also brings fewer visitors, making it easy to explore the city and its 10 surrounding national parks and monuments.

Make the most of a trip by catching a signature Black Hills event. A few of note: Custer State Park Buffalo Roundup (Sept. 26-28), Pumpkin Festival (Sept. 28), Volksmarch (Sept. 29), Bierbörse Festival (Oct. 5), Black Hills Powwow (Oct. 11-13) and Mountain West Beer Fest (Nov. 9).

Delve into history

Rapid City offers rich history and heritage, reflecting the region’s deep cultural and historical roots. At the heart of this experience, you’ll find Crazy Horse Memorial^®, an ongoing project honoring the Lakota culture, providing insight into Native American heritage in the region. Nearby, American history shines at Mount Rushmore National Memorial, where the colossal faces of four U.S. presidents etched into the Black Hills stand as a monumental tribute to the nation’s history.

Learn more about the history of the area on a guided tour in Badlands National Park, explore Jewel Cave National Monument, walk around Devils Tower National Monument and tour the Minuteman Missile National Historic Site.

Round out any visit in Rapid’s vibrant downtown, with historical architecture, museums and the City of Presidents walking tour, which features life-sized bronze statues — and a short audio biography — of each U.S. president.

For more information on planning your autumn adventure, visit VisitRapidCity.com.

2024-08-26T08:01:00

(BPT) – When you find a puddle of pee on your dog’s favorite snooze spot, it’s easy to jump to worry. You might even be asking yourself if she did it to be spiteful. While it’s not uncommon for dogs to urinate inside because of a behavioral problem, it is unlikely she’s misbehaving.^1,2 In fact, she could have a medical condition called canine urinary incontinence (UI) due to urethral sphincter hypotonus. Here are some questions you might have, answers to help you narrow down why your dog is having indoor accidents, and what steps you can take next.

1. “What makes this type of incontinence different from other urinary conditions?”

When a female dog has weak urethral sphincter muscles, this can lead to a lack of bladder control that causes her to involuntarily leak urine. If your dog is suffering from this type of canine UI, finding pee puddles inside would feel out-of-the-blue.

2. “Are some dogs more likely to leak?”

Any dog can experience urinary incontinence, but it’s most common in spayed middle-aged female dogs. In fact, up to 20% of spayed female dogs may develop urinary incontinence.³ Midsized and large breeds are also predisposed to it; the most commonly affected are Old English sheepdogs, Doberman pinschers, boxers, German shepherds and Weimeraners.⁴

3. “How can I be sure this isn’t just my dog acting out?”

While dogs with behavioral issues may pee when greeting a new person or becoming overexcited, a dog experiencing incontinence is usually well-behaved and housetrained. Often dogs suffering from this type of incontinence don’t even realize they voided their urine and are just as confused as you are.

4. “Are there any signs I should look out for?”

Dogs with incontinence drip or leak urine when they sleep, so finding wet spots in their favorite places to relax is a telltale sign. Also, because of the way the urine leaks, you might notice red, irritated skin around the genitals and excessive licking of that area.

5. “This sounds like something I’m dealing with. What should I do?”

The best rule of thumb is if something seems off with your dog, call and schedule an appointment with your veterinarian right away. They will be able to start the process of accurately diagnosing your dog and help you figure out the next steps.

6. “I don’t want my dog to suffer from this. Can incontinence be treated?”

Don’t worry. Your dog’s condition is treatable. If your dog is diagnosed with urinary incontinence due to urethral sphincter hypotonus, your veterinarian may prescribe PROIN ER™ (phenylpropanolamine hydrochloride extended-release tablets). This flavored, once-a-day tablet can help your dog have better weeks without the leaks. For more information, visit proin-er.com.

No matter the reason, your dog unexpectedly peeing inside is cause for concern. If you’re noticing this unusual behavior, consult your veterinarian and ask if PROIN ER™ is right for your dog.

¹ Holt PE. Urinary incontinence in the bitch due to sphincter mechanism incompetence: prevalence in referred dogs and retrospective analysis of sixty cases. Journal of Small Animal Practice 1985;26:181–190.

² Holt PE, Thrusfield MV. Association in bitches between breed, size, neutering and docking, and acquired urinary incontinence due to incompetence of the urethral sphincter mechanism. Vet Rec 1993;133:177–180.

³ Von Goethem B. Schaefers-Okkens A, Kirpensteijn J. Making a rational choice between ovariectomy and ovariohysterectomy in the dog: a discussion of the benefits of either technique. Vet Surg 2006; 35:136-143.

⁴ Thrusfield MV, Holt PE, Muirhead RH. Acquired urinary incontinence in bitches: its incidence and relationship to neutering practices. J Small Anim Pract. 1998;39:559-566.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION: For oral use in dogs only. Not for human use. Keep out of reach of children. If accidentally ingested by humans, contact a physician immediately.

The most commonly reported side effects were vomiting, loss of appetite, diarrhea, excessive salivation, agitation, tiredness, vocalization, confusion, increased water consumption, weight loss, weakness, fever, panting, and reversible changes in skin color (flushing or bright pink). Abnormal gait, seizures or tremors, as well as liver enzyme elevations, kidney failure, blood in urine and urine retention have been reported. In some cases death, including euthanasia has been reported. Sudden death was sometimes preceded by vocalization or collapse.

Instances of dogs chewing through closed vials of PROIN and eating the vial contents have been reported, in some cases resulting in overdose. Keep the product in a secured storage area out of the reach of pets in order to prevent accidental ingestion or overdose, as dogs may willingly consume more than the recommended dosage of PROIN Chewable Tablets or PROIN ER™ tablets. Contact your veterinarian immediately if the dog ingests more tablets than prescribed or if other pets ingest PROIN Chewable Tablets or PROIN ER™ tablets.

PROIN and PROIN ER™ may cause elevated blood pressure and should be used with caution in dogs with pre-existing heart disease, high blood pressure, liver disease, kidney insufficiency, diabetes, glaucoma, and other conditions associated with high blood pressure. Dogs may transition from PROIN Chewable Tablets to PROIN ER™ without a break in administration. However, do not alternate PROIN ER™ with PROIN Chewable Tablets because the effectiveness and safety of interchangeable use have not been evaluated.

The safe use of PROIN and PROIN ER™ in dogs used for breeding purposes, during pregnancy or in lactating bitches, has not been evaluated. Contact your veterinarian if you notice restlessness or irritability, loss of appetite, the incontinence persists or worsens, or any other unusual signs. See prescribing information for complete details regarding adverse events, warning and precautions or visit prnpharmacal.com.

2024-08-26T11:57:00

(BPT) – It’s tailgating season! Whether you’re relaxing in the parking lot before the game or gathering in front of the television with family and friends, it means football and food. The biggest debate is what to serve all of the sports fans in your life. While chips and dip might be the go-to snack, why not elevate the experience? You don’t have to put on a five-course, fancy meal to get your game day on. Kicking finger foods up a notch will turn your watch party into a culinary event.

A winning play is to pick one main dish you’re sure everyone will love and build sides and dessert around it. Here are some ideas to level up your game day spread with ease.

Wings! Wings are a no-brainer for game day. Everybody loves this easy-to-eat, delicious finger food. But not all wings are created equal. Tyson^® Brand has just debuted a new line, Tyson Crispy Wings, that rival your favorite restaurant variety. And here’s the twist: These wings are fully cooked and dry rubbed. They’re not pre-sauced. The rub seasons the wings and creates a crispy exterior that gives way to tender, juicy perfection. They come in three flavors that are sure to please everyone: Rotisserie Seasoned, Garlic Parmesan and Caribbean Style. Pro tip: Serve with a selection of sauces, like blue cheese, buffalo, barbecue, jerk, ranch or teriyaki style.

Boneless wings. Not everyone wants bone-in varieties, right? Tyson Brand’s new, boneless Honey Chicken Bites are crafted from tender, all-white meat chicken and coated with a honey-infused breading. Bake them in the oven or air fryer and they’re ready to eat in under 25 minutes. And they pack a protein punch with 14g per serving.

Veggies and dip. A big plate of fresh veggies, like celery, broccoli, red pepper, baby carrots and mini cucumbers adds color to your table and crunch to your meal. Pair the veggies with easy, homemade onion dip. (Caramelize 2-4 onions, sliced thin. Mix with 16 oz. sour cream, garlic powder and paprika to taste. Chill for 1 hour.) Bonus: This dip is also delicious with the wings and honey bites!

Cowboy coleslaw. Slaw goes perfectly with wings, and here’s a fun twist. Take a bag of pre-cut slaw, add 1 each chopped red and green pepper, chopped scallions, 1 can of black beans (drained), and 1 cup frozen corn (thawed). Mix a dressing of 1/2 cup mayo and 1/2 cup sour cream, taco seasoning, a dash of cumin and the juice of 1 lime. Mix and garnish with cilantro.

Brownie bar. A tried-and-true favorite! Bake a pan of brownies, cut them into small squares and serve with a selection of DIY toppings like whipped cream, caramel sauce, candy bits, sprinkles or whatever else your family loves.

By starting your game day table with Tyson Crispy Wings and Honey Chicken Bites and building delicious, easy sides around it, you’re sure to cook up a winner.

2024-08-26T09:01:00

(BPT) – More than two decades ago, on Sept. 11, 2001, many lost their lives in the 9/11 terrorist attacks. From across America, people stepped forward — uniting to help the families of those lost, assist the injured, and do whatever they could to help.

AmeriCorps members and AmeriCorps Seniors volunteers were among those who were there to help, offering emergency assistance to the injured, serving as family caseworkers, and helping those displaced from Ground Zero find housing and other services. For many, their service was a life-changing experience, inspiring them to pursue careers in public service.

The 9/11 attacks also inspired AmeriCorps alumni Cait and Kevin to serve. Both lost their fathers that day but found ways to heal through service.

Cait chooses to remember her father by inspiring others to give back and doing what her father loved — helping others in need.

“Looking back, my journey involved not only following in my father’s footsteps to help others but also finding the importance of community in my own healing. The way our communities came together after 9/11 was remarkable. It taught me that despite all our differences, we all have the ability to come together to listen, learn, and accept one another. I don’t think I would be the person I am today if it weren’t for these lessons. I learned how difficult and messy traumatic events can be in our lives, but also learned how resiliency can be beautiful,” said Cait.

Kevin continues to honor his father’s memory by working with nonprofit organizations to lift up fellow New Yorkers and Americans to a better and brighter future.

Kevin shared, “In 2001, I was just 4 years old when I lost my father in the attack on the World Trade Center. That devastating loss changed me and inspired me to help others in need through my service with AmeriCorps and now in my career. Over the years, I’ve seen firsthand how small efforts can affect great changes that impact the lives of those in need.”

The events of that day and the heroism of the first responders ultimately led to the creation of the Sept. 11 National Day of Service and Remembrance, founded by the nonprofit 9/11 Day with the support of the 9/11 community, AmeriCorps, and bipartisan leaders in Congress.

Since 2009, Americans have united in service and volunteerism on Sept. 11 to honor those lost and recognize the sacrifices that members of the armed forces, emergency responders, and their families continue to make.

AmeriCorps works with 9/11 Day, grantees and partners, as well as faith-based, local, and national organizations, to offer volunteering opportunities in communities across the nation.

People of all ages and backgrounds join and lead community service projects from food drives and home repairs to neighborhood cleanups and disaster preparation activities to honor the lives and service of those lost that day. These civic champions cross divides, differences, and ideologies to make a difference — rekindling the spirit of unity and service that swept our nation after that tragic day.

You can be a part of this movement. Join your neighbors and make plans to serve your community on Wednesday, Sept. 11, 2024.

To find a volunteer opportunity near you or learn more, visit AmeriCorps.gov/911day.

2024-08-26T08:01:00

(BPT) – From the explosive growth of GLP-1 drugs for weight loss to the social media hype around gut health, new wellness trends have been central to the cultural conversation over the past year. To help understand the products and innovations shaping these trends — and how they may support everyone’s individual health goals — The Vitamin Shoppe’s new Health & Wellness Trend Report 2024 takes a deep dive into the top five trends of the year.

1. GLP-1 users seek nutritional support

As GLP-1 drugs such as Ozempic and Mounjaro are increasingly used to treat Type 2 diabetes and support weight loss, there is also a heightened focus on ensuring that people taking these medications get proper nutrition. These medications help people feel full longer, according to the Mayo Clinic, which can suppress the appetite, making daily food and nutrition choices even more important.

For that reason, GLP-1 users may want to add nutritional supplements to their daily routines to ensure they’re getting enough nutrients, including proteins, multivitamins, fiber and probiotics. These supplements can help fill key nutrient gaps and support the optimal digestive health of patients on GLP-1 drugs. In fact, The Vitamin Shoppe saw a 10% increase in sales of ready-to-drink protein beverages compared to last year, plus a 13% bump in meal replacement products tailored to weight management in the first four months of this year.

While taking a GLP-1 medication, it’s recommended to consult a health professional about developing a nutrition plan, which may include supplements while managing weight loss.

2. Living better, longer

Recent interest in longevity has evolved from not just how long people live, but how long they’ll stay healthy — what some have dubbed “healthspan,” not just lifespan. This trend is being driven by cutting-edge research and new technologies that are adding healthy years to lives, with a heightened focus on nutritional health. Key areas of nutritional focus for healthy aging include cognitive health, cellular health and mobility health.

At The Vitamin Shoppe, cognitive support products are the biggest sales driver by volume this year, including the popular Ginkgo biloba, known for memory and circulatory support, and L-theanine, which helps promote relaxation and stress support.

Meanwhile, cellular health support products have seen the biggest percentage of sales gains, up over 45% from the previous year, such as Vthrive Bioactive B-Complex, which aids in energy production and nervous system support. Other customer favorites include the amino acid Jarrow Formulas’ L-Carnitine and Life Extension’s NAD+ Cell Regenerator, known for supporting healthy cellular metabolism.

“Longevity is one of the most exciting areas of wellness innovation today,” said Muriel Gonzalez, president of The Vitamin Shoppe. “There’s growing demand for this kind of knowledge, empowering consumers to incorporate the latest advances and products into their everyday wellness practices, including longevity-focused nutritional support.”

3. Gut health is everywhere

Log on to your favorite social media platform, and there is bound to be content about gut health. This wellness phenomenon has turned topics that were often kept private — like bloating, IBS and digestive issues — and made them almost fashionable.

This increased awareness of the importance of gut health has fueled sales of supplements such as probiotics, prebiotics, and fiber products like psyllium husk and digestive enzymes. Food and beverage makers are adding gut health ingredients to everything from soda and yogurt to even candy. At The Vitamin Shoppe, the best-selling ProBioCare range of probiotics and digestive health products increased sales 24% in 2023, with another 44% jump in the first quarter of 2024.

“Your gut is like the command center of your body; there’s so much more to it than just digestion. It plays a starring role in practically every aspect of your health and well-being,” explained Maya Shetreat, M.D., a member of The Vitamin Shoppe’s Wellness Council.

4. Women 40+ in the spotlight

Once an overlooked category, there’s growing interest in wellness products for women aged 40 and older. This year, The Vitamin Shoppe introduced three new brands for this key demographic to its 700 stores: Health & Her, Wile and Solaray Her Life STAGES. In fact, over 40 new products dedicated to women’s health were added, all addressing the unique needs of women as they reach life milestones such as perimenopause, menopause and post-menopause — including different areas of hormonal health, emotional health and sexual health.

According to industry figures from SPINS, women are increasingly seeking out case-specific supplements for their individual needs. For example, sales of PMS formulas increased 12% over a 12-month period ending in 2023.

“All these hormonal milestones in a woman’s life are natural, beautiful transitions — they aren’t taboo topics. Now, there are better solutions to address the often frustrating and uncomfortable symptoms each woman may experience,” explained Dr. Pamela Peeke, a prominent physician and nutrition expert, who helped develop the Solaray Her Life STAGES products.

5. Beverages are not just for hydrating anymore

While hydrating remains crucial for overall health, especially while exercising or enjoying the summer heat, consumers increasingly want beverages to do even more. Beverages can also boost wellness and mood with a range of vitamins, adaptogens, nootropics and botanicals.

Sales of these kind of ready-to-drink “functional beverages” have grown 20% last year, according to SPINS figures. Catering to this increased thirst for good-for-you drinks, The Vitamin Shoppe recently introduced dedicated displays in hundreds of its stores for trendy functional mocktails from brands including Kin Euphorics, De Soi, Hiyo and Parch.

For more information on all the latest wellness trends of 2024, download the complete Health & Wellness Trend Report from The Vitamin Shoppe here. To explore the full range of lifelong wellness solutions in the report, visit your local The Vitamin Shoppe store or VitaminShoppe.com.

2024-08-22T10:01:00

(BPT) – Do you have a home emergency plan in place for you and your family? If the answer is no, you’re not alone. According to a recent survey conducted by Wakefield Research for Amazon,* 81% of adults in the U.S. do not have a well-rounded home emergency plan in place. Outside of our own households, a similar number of adults (82%) are worried about not being notified if elderly family or friends have an accident or emergency at home.

In honor of National Preparedness Month in September, now is the perfect time to develop a home safety plan for your family and loved ones who live alone. It can feel daunting to tackle getting a plan together, but here are three easy tips to help you get started.

Identify the risks that are unique to the area you’re in

An important first step is understanding the types of hazards that might be prevalent in your community, whether that’s wildfires, earthquakes, flooding or major storms. Knowing what emergencies you’re most likely to face allows you to better prepare and helps make creating a plan feel more manageable than trying to prepare for everything.

Your state and local government’s emergency management websites are a great starting point to get more information about the common types of disasters and whether plans already exist for your area. You should also sign up for your community’s alert and warning systems which can notify community members of impending disasters or of actions to take following a disaster.

Make a plan that takes into account the specific needs of your household

As you prepare, tailor your emergency plans and supplies to your specific needs and outline key roles and responsibilities, especially since your family may not always be together in case of an emergency.

Some questions to consider as you’re building out a plan:

• How will we receive emergency alerts and warnings?
• What is our evacuation route and meeting point?
• Does everyone know who to call in an emergency?
• What vital items do we need in an emergency supplies kit beyond the typical items? (e.g. prescription medication, eyeglasses, extra contact lenses, cashier’s check, etc.)
• Where will we keep important family documents physically and digitally? (e.g. copies of insurance policies, identification bank account records, etc.)

Invest in resources that can get you help fast and provide you peace of mind

Emergencies are by nature unpredictable and while it’s essential to have a well-thought-through and actionable plan, one of the best things that you can do is also invest in a service that offers emergency support at any time, like Alexa Emergency Assist. Available 24/7, 365 days a year, this service allows your entire household to get fast access to help without having to pull out your phone or if it’s not in reach, by simply saying, “Alexa, call for help,” to your Echo device.

Dedicated, professionally trained agents can request dispatch of emergency services and have access to any of your pre-saved critical information at the time of the call, like your home address, medications or allergies, allowing first responders to be thoroughly prepared when they arrive at your home.

Other key Alexa Emergency Assist features:

• 24/7 Urgent Response: Available around the clock, 365 days a year, even if phone lines are down.
• Professional assistance: Dedicated, trained agents can quickly request dispatch of police, fire, or ambulance services.
• No wait times: Call center answer times are faster than industry standards,** so you get help without delays.
• Pre-saved information: Urgent Response agents will have the information you choose to provide during sign-up, including your address, device details, medical conditions, household information (such as gate or door codes) and a list of emergency contacts.
• Emergency contacts: Alexa Emergency Assist allows you to save the contact information of up to 25 family members, friends or loved ones you choose to be automatically notified and informed when a call is placed.
• Smart alerts: These allow Alexa to detect if your smoke or CO alarm is sounding, or there’s a sound of glass breaking — and will notify you so you can take action whether you’re at home or away.

These tips will help offer you peace of mind, knowing that your family is prepared in case of any emergencies. To learn more about Alexa Emergency Assist, visit Amazon.com/gethelpfast.

*According to a survey of 1,000 U.S. Adults Ages 18+ and a survey of 1,000 U.S. parents of children ages 12 and under for Amazon by Wakefield Research between March 15-20, 2024.

**AEA’s calls are answered faster than industry standards according to the National Fire Protection Association and National Emergency Number Association.