Category: Brandpoint Lifestyle

2024-12-09T14:57:00

(BPT) – The holiday shopping season is here, with more gifts expected to be purchased than ever before. Packing and shipping those gifts may feel like one more item on the to-do list, but with the right help, it can be quick and simple — leaving more time for holiday celebrations. The UPS Store^® retail locations are a convenient, one-stop solution when it comes to holiday to-dos.

The UPS Store Certified Packing Experts^® can be found at every location and offer an exclusive Pack & Ship Guarantee,* which provides reimbursement if the package is lost or damaged before arriving at its destination. For a limited time, between December 1 through December 19, 2024, if you purchase shipping for your package at The UPS Store using UPS Next Day Air^®, UPS 2nd Day Air^®, or UPS 3 Day Select^® services and your package doesn’t arrive on time, get a refund.**

To ensure packages arrive by Christmas Eve, it’s a good idea to check shipping company websites. Recommended UPS shipping deadlines for 2024:

• December 19 via UPS 3 Day Select^® service
• December 20 via UPS 2nd Day Air^® service (not subject to UPS Service Guarantee)
• December 23 via UPS Next Day Air^® service (not subject to UPS Service Guarantee)

Many of The UPS Store locations offer extended holiday hours for last-minute shoppers running errands into the evenings and weekends.

If a gift didn’t quite work out as expected, the returns process is quick and convenient at any The UPS Store location. Many locations offer a self-serve kiosk for online returns with participating retailer QR code or pre-labeled drop-off packages.

As part of your trip to The UPS Store, you can make a difference in your community by contributing to The UPS Store Start Small, Grow Big program — which supports Junior Achievement nationwide. Junior Achievement, a nonprofit, describes itself as the nation’s largest organization dedicated to giving young people the knowledge and skills they need to own their economic success, plan for the future, and make smart academic and economic choices. Junior Achievement’s programs provide school-aged children with lessons in financial literacy, career readiness, and entrepreneurship. Customer donations to Junior Achievement can be made in-store during transactions, by rounding up your purchase to the nearest dollar.

For more information on holiday packing and shipping, including a 20% off coupon for packing services, visit TheUPSStore.com.

*Available at participating locations. Restrictions and limitations apply. Visit theupsstore.com/guarantee for full details. Items shipped by UPS are subject to the UPS Tariff/Terms and Conditions of Service.

**Offer Terms and Conditions: Limited time offer exclusive to The UPS Store locations. The UPS Service Guarantee (per the UPS Tariff/Terms and Conditions of Service, see ups.com/terms) shall apply to UPS Next Day Air^®, UPS 2nd Day Air^®, and UPS 3 Day Select^® shipments purchased from The UPS Store locations in the United States from December 1, 2024 – December 19, 2024 (“Eligible Shipments”). Shipments not purchased from The UPS Store locations (e.g., shipments billed to other UPS accounts) are not Eligible Shipments, even if tendered at a The UPS Store location. Eligible Shipments are guaranteed for attempted Delivery by date and (if applicable) time stated on the customer receipt and/or the Electronic Parcel Shipping Order issued by The UPS Store location. UPS Service Guarantee and Eligible Shipments subject to change without notice. See The UPS Store associates for details. Items shipped are subject to the UPS Holiday Schedule (including service modifications) and the UPS Tariff/Terms and Conditions of Service, each available on UPS.com. Copyright © 2024. The UPS Store, Inc. is a UPS company. All rights reserved. The UPS Store^® locations are independently owned and operated by franchisees of The UPS Store, Inc. (although one or more may be company-owned) in the USA and by its master licensee and its franchisees in Canada.

Visit theupsstore.com/guarantee for full details. Copyright © 2024 The UPS Store, Inc. All rights reserved. Items shipped by UPS are subject to the UPS Tariff/Terms and Conditions of Service.

2024-12-09T12:33:00

(BPT) – It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and as family and friends gather to mark the festivities, more often than not, they’ll be doing so around the table. Each feast is an opportunity to create new memories, traditions and favorite go-to dishes. Just a few smart purchases can please guests with a wide variety of delicious, homemade-tasting meals that are ready in a fraction of the time.

Prepared tomato-based pasta sauces can open up a world of possibilities when seeking quick and healthy menu ideas for the holiday season, especially since these versatile pantry staples do more than pair with pasta — they’re also a perfect accompaniment to vegetables, seafood, meat, poultry and more.

Of course, not just any jar of pasta sauce will do. For garden-fresh, authentic flavor, the key is selecting tomato-based sauces with simple, clean and high-quality ingredients, such as 100% Italian-grown tomatoes picked at their peak and extra virgin olive oil. But the crowning ingredient? A hallmark of long-lasting tradition, which indicates that a brand has dedicated time and attention to producing a product that is always worthy of serving to those who are nearest and dearest.

With the variety of prepared sauces available, the right combination of uniquely authentic flavors and wholesome, fresh ingredients can elevate any number of dishes and make home cooks feel proud to serve them at a holiday gathering, including the five below. While each recipe is simple to make for two to four, it can easily be doubled (or tripled!) to feed a crowd.

1. Gnocchi and Tomato Basil Sauce

Fluffy pillows of gnocchi are nestled in classic tomato basil sauce and topped with mozzarella cheese before being baked in the oven, just long enough for the gnocchi to cook through and the cheese to brown. This simple dish accentuates the flavor and aroma of natural Ligurian basil and Italian tomatoes, bringing an authentic taste of Italy to the table.

2. Marinara Shakshuka

For a spontaneous get-together, no dish comes together faster than shakshuka, and this version reflects an Italian twist with its use of a classic marinara sauce that melds Italian tomatoes with onion, garlic and oregano. Shakshuka is easy to scale up or down, and it can be served with mixed olives and warmed pita breads — perfect for dipping in or scooping up extra sauce.

3. Eggplant Parmigiana

Winter months call for hearty, warming meals, and a vegetarian casserole of eggplant parmigiana does the trick. Thin slices of grilled eggplant are layered with an aromatic, mildly sweet roasted garlic sauce and mozzarella cheese, then baked in the oven until bubbly and golden. A loaf of crusty bread, a green salad and a favorite bottle of red round out the meal.

4. Penne Arrabbiata with Prawns

As the weather chills, hosts can crank up the heat with this Rome-inspired dish of penne arrabbiata with prawns. Fiery red chili peppers add a new dimension to the fresh, simple and natural ingredients that are the backbone of this sauce. Prawns contribute an unexpected and festive touch to level up the meal to holiday-worthy fare.

5. Grilled Vegetable Spaghetti Alla Norma

Packed with a medley of perfectly grilled eggplant, peppers and zucchini, a prepared vegetable sauce serves as a delicious and nutritious base for spaghetti alla Norma. Threads of pasta are dressed with the veggie-rich sauce and studded with meaty chunks of fresh-roasted eggplant for a nutritious meal that will leave everyone clamoring for seconds.

Filippo Berio’s premium homestyle Italian pasta sauces come in eight delicious flavors, including Tomato Basil, Marinara, Roasted Garlic, Arrabbiata and Grilled Vegetable, as well as Mushroom, Olive and Traditional Italian. These pantry staples are a time-saving miracle when entertaining loved ones during the holiday season and beyond. More recipe ideas can be found at https://filippoberio.com/recipes/.

2024-12-09T09:31:00

(BPT) – Are you into the growing “bleisure travel” trend, AKA going on a “workcation”? For business travelers everywhere, it makes sense to balance work and play during business trips, whether you’re headed to a high-stakes meeting or participating in an industry conference. When you’re in a bustling city like Toronto, Canada’s largest city, it’s easy to impress guests and business partners with top-notch meals and entertainment, rejuvenate your team with transformative bonding experiences or simply relax doing something you love, so you’re refreshed and ready to get back to business.

With 50% of the city’s population born outside Canada, Toronto is a cosmopolitan city with a diverse and lively vibe ideal for any kind of traveler looking for a place to play after their long and busy day. The economic heartbeat of Canada is home to the second-largest tech industry in North America, making it an attractive hub for entrepreneurs and innovators. According to the latest Brand Finance Global City Index, Toronto was Canada’s highest-ranked city brand, and HR Company Remote named Toronto one of the top cities for remote work. For these reasons and many more, Toronto is fast becoming a sought-after locale for business events and meetings.

If your event is in in downtown Toronto, at or near the Metro Toronto Convention Centre or Exhibition Place Toronto, you’re in luck, because the key to optimizing your schedule before heading to Toronto is scoping out the right accommodations, dining, and activities to suit your tastes — and there’s plenty to choose from. Alternatively, many businesses prefer unique meeting venues, like the options found at DestinationToronto.com/meetings.

Both convention centers are centrally located in the heart of Toronto and easily accessible to the city’s two major airports, Toronto Pearson International Airport or Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport — just steps from the city’s bustling waterfront.

How to get around

This walkable city offers safe public transportation, ride-share, and bike share companies, making it easy to get anywhere you want to go.

Where to stay

Both of Toronto’s largest event spaces are situated near downtown luxe hotels well suited to business travelers. But if you prefer accommodations off the beaten path, you can choose from several boutique properties or even stay close to the airport for convenience. You can search for the exact accommodations you want at DestinationToronto.com/places-to-stay.

Globally inspired eateries

Are 7,500 restaurants enough to choose from? You’ll find almost any kind of cuisine in venues ranging from Michelin Star restaurants to hip, casual bistros and everything in between. In fact, Toronto was the first city in Canada to boast Michelin Guide recognized restaurants.

Sample food considered traditionally Canadian at the famed 20 Victoria, which celebrates locally sourced ingredients like fresh seafood. Or stretch your palate at Chotto Matte, one of the city’s most popular fusion restaurants specializing in Nikkei cuisine, the marriage of Peruvian ingredients and Japanese techniques. You’ll also find a wide variety of flavors from Asia, Africa, South America, Europe and the Caribbean throughout the city. For example, check out local favorites like fresh pasta at Famiglia Baldessarre, sushi at Oroshi Fish Co., dumplings at Wonton Hut or Jamaican dishes at The Real Jerk. Or how about a meal with a view? Enjoy high-end dining at 360 The Restaurant atop CN Tower, which makes a complete rotation every 72 minutes.

Toronto nightlife has plenty to offer you and your guests — from craft beers and creative cocktails to award-winning Canadian wines, you’ll be able to wet your whistle at all kinds of lively nightspots. But this is just a small sampling — find your next favorite restaurant or after-hours hangout at DestinationToronto.com/food-and-nightlife.

Get in touch with nature

Situated on the shores of Lake Ontario and home to the largest system of urban ravines in the world, the Toronto area offers many opportunities to hike or bike your way through this unique landscape. The Beltline Trail offers a 3 1/2 mile hiking route, or you can visit Woodbine Beach for sunbathing when it’s warm or use a shared bike to traverse Tommy Thompson Park. Want to get your team out on the water? A harbor tour provides a whole different view of the city. You can also explore nature at the Toronto Zoo or indoors at Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada.

Arts and culture galore

Visitors have plenty of opportunities to get artsy thanks to venues like the Art Gallery of Ontario and the striking Aga Khan Museum, plus a plethora of local art galleries. You and your guests can enjoy a night at the theater in Toronto’s Entertainment District, as well as year-round music events, festivals and international exhibitions, including the prestigious Toronto International Film Festival.

Sports venues

Sports fans will be interested to know that Toronto boasts eight sports leagues, including the Toronto Maple Leafs, plus the country’s only NBA and MLB teams, as well as being home to the Hockey Hall of Fame.

While you’re on your next business trip or conference, you’ll love exploring this diverse city that naturally inspires a sense of curiosity and excitement thanks to its culture that celebrates, melds and respects diverse people, cuisine, festivals and experiences. Discover the possibilities for your next business and leisure travel experience at DestinationToronto.com.

Please drink responsibly. Learn more at Responsibility.org.

Photos courtesy Destination Toronto.

2024-12-09T09:01:00

(BPT) – If you’re currently living in a smaller home, apartment or condo, you may be looking for smart, space-saving laundry solutions that can make your life easier — and actually turn doing your laundry into a pleasure. The good news is, there are new options available that can maximize your small space, improve energy efficiency and still deliver the great results you want, so you can enjoy caring for your clothes even better than before.

Here are a couple of choices that deliver an enhanced laundry experience from LG, ranked the number one appliance brand in the U.S. and one of America’s “most reliable lines of home appliances” by Consumer Reports.

Consider a space-saving stackable solution

When your footprint (space on the floor) is limited, one easy option is to go vertical. With the Single Unit Front Load LG WashTower™ with Center Control™ 4.5 cu. ft. Washer and 7.4 cu. ft. Electric Dryer (WKE100HWA), you’ll have the ideal vertical laundry solution that looks great and fits beautifully in more spaces. With the space saving from this model, you can reinvent how you do your laundry with room to add a sink, folding table or organized storage — all with a sleek, streamlined look in half the floor space, plus easy-to-reach controls, with no step stool needed.

This is why Forbes recently chose LG’s WashTower as its top pick for its sleek style, central control panel and generous capacity, saving on floorspace without sacrificing cleaning strength. Forbes cited its easily reachable and intuitive mid-level control panel, conveniently placed between the washer and dryer, as well as its quiet operation.

This unit offers an Ultra Large Capacity Washer and Dryer to let you clean larger loads, and uses built-in intelligence to take out the guesswork — with AI technology to select the optimal wash and dry settings. You’ll also enjoy advanced washing performance with its Allergiene™ Wash Cycle, and you can use the ThinQ^® app to access smart functions and ThinQ Care™ alerts.

Visit LG.com to explore all the combo options available to make your laundry life easier.

Discover the convenience of the all-in-one washer-dryer unit

Did you know you could have one machine that both washes and dries your clothes? LG is the only brand that offers a portfolio of single-unit laundry solutions like the WashCombo™ All-In-One (WM6998HBA). This space-saving 2-in-1 configuration offers a ventless design and standard 120v plug — which means it can be installed virtually anywhere. The WashCombo runs a complete wash and dry cycle in as little as two hours.*

Even better, you won’t have to interrupt your life to go and transfer clothes from one machine to another (or risk forgetting to move the wet laundry in the first place!), making this ordinary task more easy and seamless than ever before.

You can also forget about the endless sorting or toggling through various cycles, because its built-in sensors use AI technology to detect fabric texture, soil level and load size, then automatically selects the right wash/dry motions, temperatures and more for advanced fabric care.

You’ll also enjoy the energy savings with LG’s Inverter HeatPump™ technology, which means you’ll use up to 60% less energy compared to similarly-sized vented LG dryers.**

Hamper alternatives

An additional aspect of laundry that’s often problematic for small living spaces is the room you need in your bathroom or bedroom for a bulky clothes hamper. To save on valuable floor space, consider getting a hamper bag or basket that’s designed to simply hang over a door. Most varieties are easily collapsible and require little to no installation, depending on the type of hangable hamper you choose and where you want to hang it. Hamper bags are also easy to carry from your bedroom or bathroom to the laundry room, making laundry day a breeze.

With these options to help streamline and simplify your laundry, you’ll need a lot less time and space to get it done — and you’ll enjoy the process of taking care of your clothes and linens more than ever.

*Cycle time may vary depending on load type/weight. Based on independent testing in Wash+Dry cycle with Dryer on Energy Saver mode, 10 lb. DOE standard load, October 2023. Full capacity load approximately 20 lbs.

**The industry’s most energy-efficient combo based on http://EnergyStar.gov (November 2023).

2024-12-09T09:01:00

(BPT) – When Matthew and Michele Jones decided to renovate their disabled son’s basement so their adult grandson could move in to care for him, they didn’t expect a toilet nightmare.

To keep costs under control, they opted for a macerating toilet to avoid breaking through the concrete basement floor to install plumbing. The Jones family thought they chose a highly rated SFA Saniflo product. Unfortunately, they mistakenly purchased a knockoff brand with a similar-sounding name. Before long, the toilet started flushing randomly, only to completely fail weeks later.

Their plumber confirmed the problem: The knockoff product was a deficient, factory-sealed macerating unit — with no option to replace individual components. Worst of all, there was no customer service available to help them, which meant there was no way to return the faulty product or get their money back.

What you need to know before buying a macerating system

The company you purchase from makes a difference when it comes to safety and reliability. Before you buy, double check for:

• Certification: Plumbing products for your home need to be certified to the standards set in the U.S. For example, SFA Saniflo macerating toilets are certified by CSA and listed with IAPMO for nationwide compliance. Knockoff products (often with names that make them sound like Saniflo products) frequently lack the necessary certifications to be recognized or accepted by plumbing code in North America.

  Worse yet, if a pump from a disreputable brand fails and causes flooding or damage in your home, you could be liable because most insurance companies won’t cover the damage when the failed product doesn’t hold proper certifications.

• Warranties and customer service: It’s important to know the length of the product’s warranty and what kind of customer service the company offers. Saniflo offers a comprehensive 4-year limited warranty — the highest in the industry — underlining its confidence in its product reliability and durability. It also provides exceptional customer service.

  Compare that to the short warranties of many overseas knockoff products, which also offer zero customer service if something goes wrong. You can also search online reviews to see how previous customers have rated the products and service.

Quality matters

Quality makes all the difference for products you need to use every day in your home. You can rest assured that SFA Saniflo has been creating reliably high-quality, highly rated products since 1958.

Saniflo actually invented the macerator system, which is unlike other traditional designs on the market. No major construction is needed for installation: Instead of laying pipework under the floor, it attaches to the main drain line, and the Saniflo pump does all the work for you.

SFA Saniflo exerts a high level of quality control over all aspects of the manufacturing processes and production. While cheaper options may seem tempting, remember that they’ll end up costing you more if they break or damage your home. Many lesser-known imported brands are unreliable, which can lead to flooding or damage that insurance won’t cover.

Another homeowner shares his story

Unfortunately, the Jones family isn’t the only one to have a bad experience with a cheaper, less reliable product. Homeowner Michael Ranieri bought a newly flipped house with an “up-flush” macerating toilet in the basement that appeared to be new.

When the toilet suddenly stopped working and started making noises, he researched the knockoff brand. He discovered many online complaints and learned that there was no customer support. Ranieri quickly had to seek better options to replace this sub-par macerating toilet.

“My advice for anyone looking to buy plumbing products for their home: Find a good and reputable brand that has a warranty,” said Ranieri. “The warranty from Saniflo meant a lot to me, and it’s not just the number of years. It’s about the fact that they would cover most problems and stand by their product.”

A reliable option for your next home renovation: Saniflo’s Saniaccess 3

The Saniflo Saniaccess 3 is a half-horsepower macerator pump system used for installing a complete bathroom up to 15 feet below the sewer line, or even up to 150 feet away from a soil stack. In addition to toilet waste, the unit can discharge gray water from two other sanitary fixtures in a bathroom, including a sink, bathtub or shower.

This product incorporates a macerating system that can handle human waste and toilet paper in residential applications, and the unit flushes waste upward and away to a main line that could be more than 150 feet away.

If you’re renovating, there’s no need for the time, effort and cost of breaking through a floor to add traditional plumbing anywhere in your home. With a high-quality, reliable Saniflo macerating toilet, you can get a full bathroom renovation at a fraction of the cost of conventional plumbing. Just make sure you’re buying a reliable, trusted product with proper certification, extended warranty and tried-and-true customer service.

Learn more about Saniflo Macerators and Grinders for your next renovation at Saniflo.com.

2024-12-05T17:45:00

(BPT) – It’s December. And you know what that means. It’s time to finish that list and check it twice. Nobody is feeling the holiday bustle quite like the host. From buying the gifts to wrapping the gifts, and preparing the food to setting the table, the host is busy making the magic happen.

If you’ve ever fed a crowd, you know this comes with its fair share of stress. Whether it’s the cost or the time it takes to shop, prep and cook, hosts everywhere deserve a round of applause. And maybe a few festive tips for making the moment less stressful and more joy filled.

The traditional holiday meal, available in one click

Skip the stress of meal planning and let someone else do the heavy lifting by purchasing a curated meal basket. At Walmart you can get a meal that serves 12 people for less than $5 per person.

From ham and fan favorite sides like sweet potato and green bean casseroles, to brown-and-serve rolls and pumpkin pie, the basket includes 28 ingredients to pull together a traditional meal and is available in stores or with one simple click on Walmart.com/HolidayMeal through December 31.

Need to check gifts off the list too? You can also gift this meal to friends and family afar, or donate one to your local Salvation Army unit, all in one click on the Walmart website.

Mix and match trendy appetizers

Impress your guests with easy-to-make light bites that are as delicious as they are stylish. The seasonal bettergoods items at Walmart are perfect for your holiday hosting needs. Elevate your holiday table with chef-inspired bites like these:

• Sweet and Spicy Fruit Spreads and Pepper Jellies: Inspired by the flavors and colors of the season, the Fruit Spreads Combo and Pepper Jellies Combo are perfect for gifting or holiday charcuterie. Each pepper jelly is made with real jalapeno or habanero peppers to bring a kick to your holiday meals. ($6.97)
• Comforting Gluten Free Muffin Mixes: Bite into seasonal flavors with gluten free muffin mixes available in Apple Cinnamon, Pumpkin Spice and Gingerbread flavors. ($4.93)
• Delectable Holiday Candy: Deck out the dessert table with Holiday Chocolate Truffles, Peppermint Bark, Sleigh Ride Mix and Luxury Selection Belgian Cookies. Rooted in classic flavors, these treats are sure to be a hit. ($6.82)

For all those weeknight dinners in between the holiday meals, keep it easy and let someone else do the work for you. Walmart curated 25 shoppable recipes on its website to help you make it a Delicious December. From Skillet-Ready Pasta to Leftover Turkey & Ham Monte Cristo, there’s no guesswork and everything you need for each meal is shoppable with one click on Walmart’s website.

With a little preparation and a few simple strategies, it’s easy to host with less stress and more savings, so even the busiest magic makers can find a little more time to enjoy what truly matters — good food, great company and making lasting memories.

2024-12-05T08:01:00

(BPT) – When was the last time you had your hearing checked? If you’re like most Americans, it may have been a while or you may not have gotten it checked before — rest assured, you’re not alone. According to Synchrony’s 2024 “Hearing Health & Loss Prevention” study, 70% of people consider their hearing to be a priority (who doesn’t?) but less than 10% have visited an audiologist in the past year.

Even more surprising, the study found 85% of respondents said there was no need to discuss their hearing with their health care provider, even though more than one in five people admitted to exhibiting potential symptoms of hearing loss, like:

• Needing people to repeat themselves
• Listening to music or watching TV louder than others may find necessary
• Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)

Sound familiar? Hearing loss can come on gradually over time, so you might not even realize it’s happening. Delaying hearing care can result in outcomes that are more serious than just having to turn up the volume again or asking someone to repeat themselves. It can have a significant effect on your physical, mental and emotional well-being that can lead to repercussions, including, but not limited to:

Social isolation: People with moderate or even mild hearing loss that’s untreated can start to withdraw from social situations like parties or get-togethers because they have trouble hearing and participating in conversations in noisy environments. As we age, social connection and interaction is crucial to our well-being. Isolation from friends, family and community because of hearing loss can contribute to depression and loneliness.

Negative impact on job or school performance: If you can’t hear instructions or conversations in meetings, you can miss crucial information that you need to know to perform your job adequately and safely. The same goes for school assignments.

Increased risk of falls: Hearing plays an important role in balance and spatial awareness, and in cases where there is even mild hearing loss, adults are at an increased risk of accidental falls.

Cognitive decline: Untreated hearing loss has been strongly linked to dementia in older adults. According to a Johns Hopkins study (among others), older adults with hearing loss were more likely to have dementia. It’s an alarming statistic for those who ignore their hearing loss symptoms. But, here’s the good news — the risk of dementia lowers among hearing aid users. It shows a clear link between hearing loss and dementia, and that treating hearing loss diminishes that risk. Exactly how hearing loss contributes to dementia is not completely understood, but one theory suggests that, in people with hearing loss, the brain must work harder to process and decipher sounds, which can be exhausting over time.

That’s why the American Speech Language Hearing Association (ASHA) recommends all adults 18-40 years old have their hearing tested every three to five years, regardless of whether they’re experiencing hearing loss or not. If you’re over 60 years old, frequently exposed to loud noises, experiencing hearing loss symptoms or have been diagnosed with hearing loss, you should be getting your ears checked every year.

With all of the dangers of neglecting hearing care, why don’t more people make it a part of their yearly trips to their physicians? One factor could be cost. In fact, Synchrony’s “Hearing Health & Loss Prevention” study found that 43% of respondents said one of the primary factors for getting their hearing checked would be cost, and they would be more likely to get their hearing checked if it was free.

There are payment options to help you manage the costs of health care associated with hearing, including financial assistance (when applicable), health insurance, third-party financing and in-house payment plans. CareCredit is a credit card used for health and wellness products and treatments that offers financing options for qualified consumers and is accepted in more than 11,000 audiology and hearing practices across the country for treatments and products that are not covered by insurance. By fulfilling the evolving needs and expectations of patients, CareCredit is a tool that empowers people to pay for the health and wellness care they want in a way that fits their lifestyle.

To learn more about what Synchrony’s “Hearing Health & Loss Prevention” study uncovered about hearing health, preventative hearing care and financial planning options, please visit www.carecredit.com/well-u/. To learn more about CareCredit, please visit www.carecredit.com.

2024-12-05T08:01:00

(BPT) – Sponsored by Eli Lilly and Company

Understanding eczema

For her entire life, April has lived with dry, itchy skin, experiencing frequent thinning and scarring of her skin due to insistent itching. Atopic dermatitis, also called eczema, is much more than just a rash. April is one of nearly 16.5 million people in the U.S. who lives with eczema.¹

The often-uncomfortable symptoms of eczema can cause severe itchiness, which can lead to more scratching causing skin to crack and bleed, contributing to self-isolation, anxiety and depression.^2-4 While the disease can affect anyone, it often appears differently on varying skin tones,⁵ and on darker skin tones, the signs can be masked due to skin pigmentation and result in delayed diagnosis and care.⁶

“I wasn’t aware of research on skin conditions like eczema in my community, and I spent most of my childhood treating my condition with home remedies, uneducated on the various treatments available to help manage my skin,” shared April.

According to research, Black Americans are more likely to develop more severe cases of eczema,⁷ and more generally, people with skin of color may have a disproportionately higher prevalence of skin conditions.⁸ Yet people with skin of color, like April, are often underrepresented in care and research. This can unfortunately lead to the people who need care most being less likely to pursue or receive appropriate treatment for their disease.

“There is a lack of knowledge,” said April. “I tried working with dermatologists, but it wasn’t helpful; I felt judged and observed, instead of helped. We need doctors to have more education on how this disease can affect a patient’s mental health…someone that is understanding of the condition and willing to help.”

Dr. Maria Jose Rueda, M.D., head of dermatology medical affairs at Eli Lilly and Company (Lilly) and trained dermatologist, has seen firsthand how the lack of education for health care providers can unintentionally lead to a feeling of judgement and mistrust among patients. “The issue is that some people don’t trust health care providers and the system and aren’t able to find a provider who knows about their type of skin and understands the differences that they may have. Gaps in care have four major root causes including cultural diversity, socioeconomic disadvantages, racial/ethnic biases and inadequate training for health care providers or lack of research including underrepresentation in medical research. At Lilly, we are working with some of the most prominent experts in the field to educate and address some of these gaps.”

Making a change

Lilly is focused on creating solutions that strengthen the relationship between health care providers and patients with eczema by advancing treatment conversations and opening the lines of communication between both groups. For example, Lilly is:

• Engaging in impactful research that improves patient care to increase understanding of clinical management from diagnosis to treatment such as conducting a clinical trial specifically for people of color with eczema.
• Supporting health care providers with education on the journey people with skin of color face and the understanding of eczema by collaborating to develop educational webinars and training modules.
• Empowering the patient voice to increase understanding of common care challenges so people can make their needs known and actively partner to find impactful solutions. For example, Lilly surveyed over 1,200 adults with dermatologic conditions to highlight challenges and foster discussion among health care providers, patients, and community members.

There is a lot of work left to be done, but first we need to address the critical health disparities in the field of dermatology for people with eczema and skin of color.

“At Lilly, we strive to be a leader in addressing the health needs of underserved populations. We are dedicated to creating meaningful change and amplifying the voices of these underserved patients and raising awareness of the challenges they face,” shared Dr. Rueda.

Resources to help you decide what treatment is right for you

Lilly’s website features more information about the company’s commitment to health equity and how Lilly is advancing care in dermatology. For more information on eczema, including a list of local health care providers with experience diagnosing and treating this condition, visit the National Eczema Association.

References

^1. Chiesa Fuxench ZC, Block JK, Boguniewicz M, et al. Atopic dermatitis in America study: a cross-sectional study examining the prevalence and disease burden of atopic dermatitis in the US adult population. J Invest Dermatol. 2019;139(3):583-590. doi:10.1016/j.jid.2018.08.028

^2. Nelson, S. (2023, January 3). Mental health and eczema – seeing the unseen. National Eczema Association. https://nationaleczema.org/blog/mental-health-science/#:~:text=The%20effects%20of%20AD%20on,on%20work%20absenteeism%20or%20productivit

^3. Chandan N and Lio P. The shape of atopic dermatitis. Practical Dermatology June 2019:64-78. Available at: https://practicaldermatology.com/articles/2019-june/the-shape-of-atopic-dermatitis

^4. Lohman ME and Lio P. Comparison of psoriasis and atopic dermatitis guidelines – an argument for aggressive atopic dermatitis management. Pediatr Dermatol 2017;34(6):739-42.

^5. Sangha AM. Dermatological conditions in skin of color—managing atopic dermatitis. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2021;14(3 suppl 1): S20-S22.

^6. Adelekun A, Onyekaba G, Lipof JB. Skin color in dermatology textbooks: An updated evaluation and analysis. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2021 Jan;84(1):194-196.

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^8. McKenzie S, Brown-Korsah JB, Syder NC, Omar D, Taylor SC, Elbuluk N. Variations in genetics, biology, and phenotype of cutaneous disorders in skin of color. Part II: Differences in clinical presentation and disparities in cutaneous disorders in skin of color. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2022 Dec; 87(6):1261-1270.

2024-12-05T10:39:00

(BPT) – Gift cards remain the most requested gift for 18 years in a row, according to the National Retail Federation. Their appeal is simple: they offer flexibility, convenience, and the joy of letting recipients choose exactly what they want. This holiday season, many will rely on gift cards to brighten their loved ones’ celebrations.

The reasons for their popularity are clear: they take the guesswork out of gift-giving and eliminate awkward returns or exchanges. Whether it’s for a coffee lover, a bookworm, or a frequent traveler, there’s a gift card to match any interest. They’re also a great option for last-minute shoppers, with digital gift cards available instantly.

But as gift cards continue to top shopping lists, it’s important to shop thoughtfully and safely to ensure a smooth gifting experience. Here’s how:

Thoughtful Selection: Choosing a gift card with care can make it feel more personal. Think about the recipient’s hobbies or interests when making your selection. For someone hard to shop for, a multi-store gift card or the new gift card from Giftcards.com provides options by letting the recipient choose exactly what they want from several popular brands. To add a personal touch, pair the card with a small, related item — like gourmet popcorn with a movie gift card or a scented candle with a spa card.

Easy Digital Delivery: Digital gift cards make gifting simple and quick. Many popular brands, such as Nordstrom, PlayStation, The Cheesecake Factory, Five Guys, Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises, and Cracker Barrel, allow you to send eGift cards via a link.

You can share eGift cards through text, email, or social messaging apps, making it easy to customize the delivery. Since the link comes from you, it’s clear who sent the gift. The recipient can redeem the eGift instantly and start enjoying it right away.

Smart Purchasing: Buying from trusted brands and retailers is key to ensuring your gift card is secure. Shop directly from brand websites, reliable online marketplaces like Giftcards.com, or well-known in-store displays. Check the packaging for signs of tampering, like missing scratch-off PIN covers, and keep the activation receipt in case of any problems.

The new Visa^® eGift and Mastercard^® eGift cards are also great options. These come in tamper-evident carriers and let recipients load funds to their digital wallets by scanning a QR code. You can find these cards at over 15,000 locations across the nation, including Kroger, Ralphs, Dillons, Smith’s, King Soopers, Fry’s, QFC, City Market, Owen’s, Jay C, Pay Less, Baker’s, Gerbes, Harris Teeter, Pick ‘n Save, Metro Market, Mariano’s, Fred Meyer, Food 4 Less, Foods Co, Weis Markets and many more.

Staying Safe from Possible Fraud: Gift card fraud is rare but worth being cautious about. Criminals may tamper with packaging or use scams to get card details. To stay safe, never share card numbers or PINs with anyone other than the recipient. Be wary of anyone asking for payment through gift cards — legitimate businesses and government agencies don’t do this.

If you notice a card seems tampered with, pick a different one and let a store employee know. Encourage recipients to keep their gift cards safe and contact the number on the back of the card if there’s any issue. Taking these steps ensures the card is used as intended.

Gift with Confidence: By shopping carefully and taking a few precautions, you can be confident that your gift card will be a hit. Gift cards not only simplify holiday shopping but also bring joy to those who receive them. This holiday season, let gift cards be your go-to for thoughtful, flexible, and safe gifting. With the right approach, you’ll take the stress out of gift-giving and make the holidays brighter for everyone on your list.

2024-12-05T08:01:00

(BPT) – For busy families, the holidays can be a blur. With office parties, gifts to buy, kids’ holiday programs to attend at school, moving the holiday elf around the house, and invitations for countless get-togethers, it can become a stressful time that goes by too fast. All too often, the rush of the season takes hold and before you know it, you turn the calendar to January, wondering where the holidays went.

But, as parents know, there are only a handful of holiday seasons while children are young enough to delight in the magic of it all. This year, how about slowing down, involving the kids in some old (or new!) traditions, and making some wonderful memories that you’ll always cherish?

Here are five ways to enjoy the holidays with your kids.

Holiday movie night. Designate one night each week as family holiday movie night. Pour mugs of hot chocolate, munch on holiday cookies and watch favorites like “Elf,” “Home Alone” and “Miracle on 34th Street.” Make sure to catch the old Rankin-Bass cartoons “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” and “Santa Claus is Coming to Town,” and no holiday season is complete without “A Charlie Brown Christmas” and “The Grinch Who Stole Christmas.”

Festivity Activities. Spark your child’s holiday imagination with Festivity Activities, a fun new offering from HP to bring the family together and help busy parents who may be out of ideas for their mischievous elves. All you need to do is print the templates from the HP site to make a little magic this holiday season. Templates for Festivity Activities include:

Holiday Picture Frame: Both colorful and blank options for kids to color in before framing their favorite holiday memory.

Holiday Light Bulb Decor: Print your winter wonderland decor right at home.

Christmas List: Parents can pretend their mischievous elves left this for their kids to fill out before they bring it back to Santa.

Holiday Lyric Bingo: Put on your favorite holiday playlist and have the whole family play along.

Holiday Popper: The perfect way to wrap small gifts or notes from holiday elves before popping them open.

All of these activities are designed to engage kids in the holidays by unleashing their creativity. Print the templates on the new Envy 6155e All-In-One printer by HP, the perfect way to print magic this holiday season.

Holiday story night. Snuggle with the kids for story time, even if they’re a little too old to be read to. Pick holiday favorites like “The Polar Express,” “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” or “The 8 Nights of Chanukah.”

Holiday countdown calendar. Make your own Advent-style calendar by creating a countdown calendar that covers Thanksgiving through New Year’s Day. Find a calendar template online, making sure the box for each calendar day is big enough to write in activities, like your movie night, or just fun holiday messages. Print it out on your Envy 6155e and put it on the fridge!

Traditional holiday baking. Have you skipped holiday baking for a few years, opting for the convenience of store-bought treats? Bring back the traditions this year and share them with your kids. Whether it’s your mother’s rugelach for Hanukkah or your grandmother’s lefse for Christmas, involve your kids in your family’s traditions.

Whichever activities you choose, it’s about engaging yourself and your kids in the holiday season, enjoying the people you love, and making a little magic of your own.