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Build credit wisely with these 5 tips

2024-12-16T07:01:00

(BPT) – When you look at your 5-to-10-year life plan, is a new car, wedding, or buying your first home on your vision board? There is one key behind the scenes that you need to unlock access to funds to reach these goals: a good credit score.

A good credit score can make accessing credit easier and less expensive. But how do you build one? Applying for and obtaining a credit card can be a good first step.

“Credit is a powerful tool to help young people manage daily expenses and reach important life milestones,” says Max Axler, Chief Credit Officer of Synchrony. “That is why it is important to learn responsible credit habits well before you apply for your first credit card.”

Here are five tips for responsibly building credit for first-time credit card holders from the experts at Synchrony:

#1. Think of your credit score like a GPA

Credit scores are like grades in school. Just as good study habits can lead to a good GPA, responsible credit habits lead to a good credit score. A higher credit score is like a ticket to financial freedom that can make it easier to qualify for loans and to purchase things you want and need down the line. And just like you improve your grades in school, you can improve your credit score by staying on top of your spending, your payment due dates and staying within your means. You can even set up autopay to make sure you don’t miss a payment just as you would set up specific times each week to study.

#2. Choose your first credit card wisely

When used responsibly, credit cards are often the easiest and most effective way to build a credit profile. There are many different types of credit cards and picking the right one for your needs is important. A store credit card, that can be used at a specific store, is a great option for those with little or no credit history.

“There is typically more flexibility in approving applications for store cards,” says Axler. “They have lower credit limits and can only be used in-store, which is often more manageable for beginners, and also offer special promotions and perks while shopping at your favorite stores.”

Another option is a secured credit card, which employs a simple, responsible spending concept. To open a secured card requires a cash deposit and the amount deposited becomes your spending limit. Because you are using your own money for purchases, it’s like a debit card, but helps build your credit history.

#3. Make good credit habits a lifestyle

Once you’ve got a card, stick to habits that will help boost your credit over time. The most important habits are:

  • Pay on time: Missing payments can seriously hurt your score, so setting up autopay for the bills to automatically withdraw payment from a bank account monthly is a good option. But don’t just set it and forget it. “It’s important to still monitor account activity to keep track of spending,” said Axler.
  • Keep your balance low: Stay below 30% of your credit limit, as this shows you are managing credit wisely and not spending beyond your means.
  • Only spend what you can pay off each month: It might be tempting to splurge, but a credit card is not free money. Carrying a high balance means more incurring interest charges which will cost you more for your purchase.

#4. Use free credit checks to stay on track

Check your balance frequently to track spending and monitor for any errors or potential fraud on your accounts. Balances can creep up quickly if you are not paying attention.

And, checking your credit status is free and simple! The three large credit bureaus — Equifax, Experian and TransUnion — offer access to your credit reports on their websites for no charge. You can also get a free copy of each of your credit reports from the three credit bureaus on AnnualCreditReport.com.

Even if you’ve never used a credit card, it’s a good idea to check what’s currently in your credit file to ensure you have not been a victim of identity theft.

#5. Learn responsibility as an authorized user

Not ready for your own card yet? You could ask a parent or family member to become an authorized user on their account. This means you get a card in your name, but it is linked to that family member’s account. It’s a lower-risk way to start using and building credit.

This approach is advisable on a card with a low credit limit, because it is a safeguard from racking up too much debt — which would hurt both of your credit histories.

If you go this route, make sure you understand the boundaries with your family member and spend responsibly. Check in with them and review your spending together to avoid any surprises.

Remember, your credit score is based on a lifetime of transactions. By starting your credit journey on the right foot today, you will pave the way for a healthy financial future and achieving your dream purchase goals of tomorrow.

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Flying high to make a child’s wish come true

2024-12-14T08:01:00

(BPT) – Twelve-year-old Lucas has always loved everything connected with aviation — and learning more about planes is one of the things that keeps him feeling strong and joyful, even when he is dealing with the daily challenges of having congenital heart disease. This chronic health condition affects the way his blood flows through his heart and blood vessels, which can lead to fatigue, difficulty breathing and other serious symptoms that negatively impact his everyday life.

“When I was twelve or so weeks pregnant, we got the news that Lucas’ heart was different, which was tough news to learn,” said his mom, Stephanie. “But we’ve had a couple surgeries, and now we’re at a stage where he looks and acts pretty much like any other kid.”

And when Lucas learned that he would be able to have a wish granted by Make-A-Wish® — which has a mission to grant life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses — Lucas knew just what he wanted right away. His wish was to have an A380 plane experience. The A380 is Lucas’ favorite kind of airplane, and he already knows a lot about this type of plane, among many others. Lucas shared that he would love to see the landing gear, the cockpit, where the flight attendants sleep, and to learn anything and everything there is to know about the A380.

Thankfully, Make-A-Wish has had a longstanding national partnership with United Airlines over the years, which would make fulfilling his wish possible. Because over 80% of the wishes from children in Make-A-Wish involve some form of travel, airfare costs are the greatest expense on fulfilling their wishes. In fact, Make-A-Wish would need over 2.8 billion miles to cover every travel wish each year. It is imperative for Make-A-Wish to have generous corporate partners like United Airlines to help make wishes like Lucas’ come true.

“Lucas’ wish was absolutely amazing. It was a great day, exhausting. But it was awesome to do all the things,” said Stephanie. “It was fun to have Make-A-Wish involved for familiar faces, and we didn’t realize there were so many jobs outside of the pilot that you can work in the airport. This was more than we could have dreamed of.”

How you can help

If you’d like to join the efforts to help fulfill wishes from more children all year long, United Airlines is inviting their MileagePlus members with the opportunity to donate their reward miles to several charities, including Make-A-Wish, through their “Miles on a Mission” platform.

Even better, during the holiday season, from Dec. 3 through 31, 2024, United Airlines is stepping up their support of Make-A-Wish even more. Customers are invited to donate miles or money to Make-A-Wish, and United will match miles donations up to 5 million miles, and cash donations will be matched with United travel certificates up to $500,000. In addition, $1 from every illy® cold brew purchased in flight will be donated to Make-A-Wish, up to $25,000, helping to bring hope to more children facing critical illnesses.

You can unwrap the power of a wish today and help grant life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses like Lucas this holiday season by visiting Wish.org/united-donate.

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5 expert tips to create an effortless holiday spread

2024-12-13T11:37:00

(BPT) – Nothing brings folks together during the holiday season like food. Whether you’re hosting a low-key gathering or throwing a festive party, choosing and preparing the right food can make the difference between a good and a great event.

Président® — a leading global deli and dairy brand offered by Lactalis, the world’s largest dairy company — believes there is pleasure in every bite and wants to help hosts like you pull off an unforgettable party with little effort. Check out its five top tips that can help you create a delicious holiday menu in as little time as possible.

1. Watch the clock

Once you have your menu planned, take note of dishes and items that can be made ahead of time and those that need to be prepared closer to the event. For example, if you’re serving cheese spread like Rondelé®, take it out of the refrigerator 15-30 minutes before serving for the best flavor, creamy texture and spreadability.

2. Plan perfect pairings

Classic food pairings are simple to prepare and make your gatherings feel thoughtfully planned. Cheese is a particularly versatile ingredient because you can pair it with a crunchy baguette, flat pretzels or crackers.

For a fresh taste, offer your guests fresh veggies like carrot sticks, celery, peppers, cucumber, broccoli, cherry tomatoes and dips. You can also serve figs, pears, grapes, berries and other fruits that are tasty on their own or combine well with cheese.

3. Impress with eye-catching appetizers

Do you want food that looks as good as it tastes? Opt for visually appealing appetizers that are simple to put together.

Consider artfully arranging cured meats, cheeses, olives and some of the classic pairings above on a beautiful wooden board. On a separate platter, you can serve bruschetta or stuffed mushrooms, mini bell peppers or other bite-sized veggies.

4. Focus on quick meals

For the main event, you don’t have to spend all day in the kitchen. Instead, prepare quick meals that are fresh and filling.

For example, serve open-faced bagel sandwiches with smoked salmon or avocado. Swap plain cream cheese for a spreadable cheese like Rondelé for a gourmet touch. You could also prepare sandwiches, wraps and rollups, which take little time and only a few ingredients to create.

5. Have a simple yet delicious secret weapon

Finally, have a tasty recipe that you can bake in minutes but that your guests will assume took much longer to create.

For your next occasion, try this recipe for soft, flaky, cheesy and buttery biscuits with a hint of fresh jalapeño. Rondelé Garlic & Herbs cheese spread is added to the batter for extra flavor and makes the biscuits much softer. Using cold ingredients in this recipe is key to achieving a beautiful, flaky texture.

Herby Jalapeño Rondelé Buttermilk Biscuits

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cook time: 25 minutes

Serves: 10

Ingredients

3 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

2 1/2 tsp baking powder

1/4 tsp salt

1 package cold Rondelé Garlic & Herbs cheese spread

2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1-2 whole jalapeños, seeded and chopped

16 tablespoons cold salted butter cubed, plus melted butter for brushing the biscuits

1 cup cold buttermilk

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.

2. Combine flour, baking powder and salt. Cut cold shredded butter into flour mixture and work with hands until mixture clumps together to form larger pea-size balls. You can also do this step in a food processor if you have one.

3. Add Rondelé, cheddar and jalapeños, mixing gently to combine. Drizzle in buttermilk and mix again until combined.

4. Turn dough out onto clean surface and pat it into 1-inch-thick square. Cut dough into 4 pieces. Stack pieces on top of each other. Press down to flatten. Dust surface with flour and roll dough into 1-inch-thick rectangle or square. Cut into 12 square biscuits or use round biscuit cutter. Transfer to parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for 15 minutes to chill.

5. Remove biscuits from freezer and brush with melted butter. You can cover the tops with fresh jalapeño rings (optional). Transfer to oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until golden on top.

And there you have it! Using these five tips, you can turn any occasion into an unforgettable get-together during the holidays and year-round. To find more recipes and tips, visit PresidentCheese.com/Cheese_Category/Rondele/.

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Cancer’s Hidden Healing: How Supportive Care Transforms Lives

2024-12-13T12:01:00

(BPT) – Diego Serna’s life changed forever in January 2020 when what seemed like a normal Saturday morning playing video games turned into a medical emergency for the then 13-year-old. After a frightening discovery of swollen, painful hands led to a devastating leukemia diagnosis, Diego and his family faced not just one challenge, but a series of them—including a heartbreaking relapse nine months into treatment. For Diego and his family, cancer has been more than a medical journey—it has been a battle that has impacted every aspect of their lives.

While leading-edge medical treatments addressed the disease, it was supportive care at City of Hope that helped Diego and his family navigate their new reality. Through counseling sessions with a psychologist, support from a child life specialist and social worker, and dedicated activities even when isolation was necessary, Diego found ways to cope with his treatment journey. “The supportive care team makes it a little easier,” his father shares. “They help you understand what you’re going through.”

What is Supportive Care?

Supportive care encompasses services that ease the physical, emotional and psychological burdens of cancer. These programs are designed to treat the whole person, not just the disease, which helps patients to focus on their recovery and well-being.

For many, a cancer diagnosis triggers a cascade of worries:

  • How do I manage pain?
  • Will I ever look like myself again?
  • What will happen to me financially?
  • How will I explain this to my children?

Supportive care helps address these pressing concerns by offering resources such as pain management, psychological counseling, financial assistance and family support. Research shows supportive care can significantly enhance patient satisfaction and quality of life. Additional health benefits are reduced hospital stays and readmissions and the prevention of complications. The end result: improved overall outcomes.

The Mental Health Perspective

“Cancer doesn’t just impact the body; it profoundly affects the mind and spirit,” says Jeanelle Folbrecht, Ph.D., a psychologist specializing in oncology care at City of Hope’s Los Angeles cancer center. “Supportive care empowers patients to face their fears and uncertainties—whether it’s managing pain, coping with changes in appearance or addressing financial and familial stressors. By tackling these challenges head-on, we help patients build resilience and focus on what matters most in their journey.”

Expanding Access Through National Collaboration

Despite these benefits, fewer than 20% of U.S. cancer patients receive care at National Cancer Institute-designated centers like City of Hope where supportive care is widely available, leaving 80% with inconsistent or limited access to these critical services.

To address these gaps, a coalition of organizations, including City of Hope, is working to make supportive care a standard practice in cancer treatment. Together for Supportive Cancer Care is a national coalition of organizations from across sectors working to support all people with cancer. This effort focuses on improving outcomes and quality of life and lowering the cost of care by expanding early, equitable access to supportive cancer care. Coalition members will be working collaboratively across three focus areas of policy, research and employer support.

The initiative seeks to address inequities and ensure that all patients, regardless of background or location, have access to these vital services. A growing body of evidence shows that supportive cancer care improves patient treatment outcomes and quality of life, while providing higher-value care and lowering long-term health care costs. However, the benefits of supportive care are not currently accessible to everyone with cancer.

A Compassionate Future

Diego’s story underscores the significant difference supportive care can make. Today, he’s back to playing music in a mariachi band—an activity that during treatment seemed impossibly out of reach. As national efforts continue to grow, supportive care is poised to become a cornerstone of cancer treatment—a compassionate approach that puts patients and their families at the center of care, every step of the way.

Photo courtesy “RewritingCancer” / BBC StoryWorks Commercial Productions

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Getting smart about car insurance can provide cost savings and peace of mind

2024-12-13T12:31:00

(BPT) – Consumers are facing increasing costs on virtually every purchase these days and auto insurance is no exception. While skyrocketing costs of this auto-related expense can be attributed to everything from parts replacement to service — even health costs as a result of accidents — consumers can better manage these increases with thoughtful study and attention to detail.

Some of the common causes for higher insurance rates are Inflation, car accidents, extreme weather conditions such as hail, hurricanes and wind, along with increased vehicle theft claims.

Mercury Insurance has partnered with financial literacy influencer Sam Jarman to highlight specific ways consumers can address these rising costs.

“Your car is the second biggest expense for most people, right behind your home, and car insurance is a big part of that,” said Jarman. “Checking rates and coverage with your Mercury Insurance agent makes sense along with choosing a car with low maintenance costs.”

According to Consumer Price Index data released earlier this year, car insurance rates are up almost 21% year-over-year for the 12 months which ended in February. The last time car insurance rates rose that much on an annual basis was 1976.

Here are some auto insurance statistics recently released from Forbes:

  • The national average cost for car insurance is $2,150 annually for full coverage.
  • The cost of auto insurance increased by 63.8% between 2014 and 2023.
  • The average car insurance cost for 16-year-old drivers with their own policy is $8,765. The average rate for 17-year-olds is $6,829.
  • Car insurance is cheapest for 60-year-old drivers, averaging $1,915 annually.
  • The vast majority of drivers have comprehensive and collision coverage. In addition to buying liability car insurance, 79% of insured drivers buy comprehensive coverage and 75% purchase collision coverage.
  • A staggering one in seven drivers have no car insurance.

“Our goal is to help our customers get the best rates possible because we know that every dollar counts.” said Justin Yoshizawa, Director, Product Management, State. “We encourage consumers to build a close relationship with their agent and discuss what discounts they may be eligible to receive. The answer might be surprising.”

Mercury offers the following tips for lowering your insurance costs:

Review your deductibles with your insurance agent – It is recommended that you review your coverage and deductible with your Mercury agent at least once a year. Their wisdom and experience can help you make wise decisions regarding your insurance.

Explore car insurance discounts – In addition to bundling your home and auto insurance, Mercury offers discounts for multi-car, good drivers, good students and auto pay. Your agent may have additional discounts to offer.

Let Your Insurer Track Your Driving – Most insurers offer discounts for customers who install telematics. This technology allows your insurance company to collect information regarding your mileage and driving habits. This can also provide valuable information regarding your driving as well as saving you money.

Drive a safe car with low repair costs – According to Bankrate, some of the cheapest cars to insure are the Subaru Outback, Honda CR-V and Honda Pilot. Also, look for cars with lower repair costs such as the Toyota Corolla, Toyota Prius and Tesla Model 3. Doing some research before you purchase a vehicle can save you money over the length of ownership.

Install an anti-theft device on your car – Drivers may receive an additional discount on your auto insurance if you install an anti-theft device on your car.

Before you buy a car, compare insurance costs – You can get a fast and easy quote from your Mercury Insurance agent. To receive a quote, you can reach us at 844-514-2893.

To learn more about common types of auto insurance discounts, visit https://www.mercuryinsurance.com/resources/auto/understanding-types-of-auto-insurance-discounts.html.

For more information on your auto insurance, you can reference the Insurance Information Institute.

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Gut health matters! 6 easy ways to prioritize it this winter

2024-12-13T08:25:00

(BPT) – The holiday season is a festive, joyous time of year but it can pack a one-two punch. With all of the holiday baking, get-togethers and big meals, people tend to overindulge in rich foods, sweet treats and more. All of that has the potential to disrupt your gut, which can make you feel sluggish and also weaken your immune system. Here’s where that one-two punch comes in. This time of year is also the height of the cold and flu season, when you need your immune system to be super charged.

The good news? Focusing on your gut health can help with both of these things, and will have you and your family feeling your best from the inside out. Finding ways to support this part of your body with solutions such as consistent sleep or taking a reliable probiotic can be not only easy but crucial to your family’s overall health.

Why is the gut so important? Living within the gut are “good bacteria.” Studies show that the gut microbiome — housing trillions of bacteria — influences various aspects of our health, including nutrient absorption, fiber digestion and gut barrier function, but it doesn’t stop there. It also plays a role in your immune system, pathogen resistance, metabolism, weight management, and even mood and behavior. Prioritizing the gut isn’t just helpful for adults. It’s important for children, too.

To help you prioritize your family’s gut health, Registered Dietitian and Florastor Brand Ambassador Steph Grasso, MS, RD, shared some useful tips.

1. Increase fiber in your diet

Fiber is the main fuel for the beneficial bacteria in your gut. Without enough fiber, the diversity of your gut bacteria can decrease, which negatively impacts digestion and your immune system. Women should aim for at least 25 grams of fiber per day, while men should get about 38 grams. Incorporate whole grains, legumes, fruits and vegetables. Try starting your family’s day with oats, snacking on apples (skin on), or adding beans to soups and salads to boost fiber intake.

2. Include probiotic-rich foods

Probiotics are live bacteria that benefit your digestive system. Eating probiotic-rich foods helps restore the balance of good bacteria in your gut, promoting better digestion and a stronger immune system. Yogurt with live cultures, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi and kombucha are all great options for adults. But beyond yogurt, kids aren’t generally big on probiotic-rich foods. That’s why supplements can be a powerful ally.

3. Use a probiotic supplement

If you’re not getting enough probiotics from your food, taking a daily supplement could help. But not all probiotics are the same. Check the specific probiotic strain to see if research backs it up. For example, Florastor Dual Action Probiotic Supplement contains the strain backed by research to not only support digestive health, but also immune health. Why Florastor? It is the #1 selling probiotic worldwide and contains the probiotic strain Saccharomyces boulardii CNCM 1-745, which has been rigorously studied and extensively documented for over 70 years. It has been safely taken by more than 460 families in nearly 100 countries around the world.

4. Talk to your doctor about probiotics for your children

Especially during the holiday season, kids’ diets can lean toward sweets and rich foods, so a probiotic can be helpful to keep tummies happy. But that’s not the only reason to give kids probiotics. As every parent knows, kids bring home colds and flu and other illnesses from the classroom. Boosting their immune system is vital to warn off those bugs. And even more vital, if they’re taking an antibiotic for an illness, a probiotic is helpful in restoring that good bacteria. FlorastorKids Dual Action Probiotic Supplement has the same history of rigorous testing as the adult version, so you can count on it to help support your child’s gut and immune system by helping good bacteria thrive while flushing out the bad.

5. Prioritize sleep

Poor sleep is linked to negative changes in the gut microbiome. Getting enough quality sleep supports both your gut and your mental health. Create a calming bedtime routine, like reading or doing some light stretches before bed. Try to limit screen time and avoid heavy meals before going to sleep.

6. Manage stress

Chronic stress can disrupt your gut bacteria, leading to digestive problems and increased inflammation. Managing stress with different techniques can help keep your gut in balance. Try yoga, meditation or deep breathing exercises. One powerful way to manage stress is to start your day with a morning walk outside, weather permitting. Getting out in nature is so beneficial for mind and body!

With 70 years of research and safe use, Florastor is the #1 probiotic worldwide. Like all probiotics, Florastor has not been evaluated by the FDA. For more information about probiotics, visit Florastor.com.

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How Solar Generators Revolutionize All-Hazards Preparedness

2024-12-13T07:01:00

(BPT) – By Craig Fugate, former Administrator of FEMA and a lifelong advocate for all-hazards preparedness

When you’ve been in emergency management as long as I have — whether it was leading efforts in Florida or running FEMA — you quickly realize one thing: disasters don’t follow a script. Hurricanes, wildfires, floods, tornadoes, earthquakes or even man-made crises like cyberattacks and power grid failures — any of them can leave you in the dark, literally. Without power, critical systems fail. No cold storage for food or medication, no way to communicate with loved ones or emergency services, and no means to keep life-saving medical equipment running.

After major events, whether it’s hurricanes or infrastructure failures, I’ve seen communities struggle without power for days or even weeks. During the 2004 hurricane season, when four hurricanes slammed into Florida, some areas were without electricity for over a month. I know firsthand that a lack of power isn’t just inconvenient — it can halt recovery efforts, compromise public safety, and put lives at risk.

If you live in a disaster-prone area, preparedness isn’t just a seasonal practice — it’s part of life. Whether you’re getting ready for hurricane season or staying ready for unexpected threats like wildfires or grid attacks, one thing is clear: having your own independent power source isn’t a luxury — it’s a necessity.

That’s why I’ve added Jackery’s solar generators to my personal emergency toolkit. Their portable power stations have changed the way I prepare, helping me stay ahead of the curve no matter what hazard comes my way.

A Go-To for All-Hazards Preparedness

During a disaster, even something as small as keeping your phone charged can be critical. Portable power stations and solar generators offer efficient, reliable power when you need it most. I’ve used the Jackery Explorer 1000 during hurricanes and other emergencies, powering everything from my amateur radio station to my cell phone. Thanks to its portability, I can move it wherever it’s needed. And when the skies clear, the solar panels provide renewable energy to recharge — no fuel required.

Jackery’s products aren’t just limited to hurricanes. Their versatility makes them invaluable for all hazards — whether it’s wildfires that force you to evacuate, winter storms that knock out power, or cyberattacks that leave critical infrastructure offline. Even outside of emergencies, these power stations have proven their worth. I’ve taken them on road trips and used them during planned outages. Having quiet, clean energy on hand gives me peace of mind in any situation.

Solar Power: A Game-Changer Across All Emergencies

Traditional gas generators come with a long list of challenges. After storms or disasters, fuel shortages are common, and storing gasoline safely isn’t always possible. The noise from gas generators is another issue — during long recovery efforts, it becomes more than just an annoyance. Worse yet, gas generators pose serious safety risks. Every year, we hear tragic stories of people dying from carbon monoxide poisoning after running generators too close to homes or in garages.

That’s where solar power is a game-changer. Solar generators provide clean, quiet energy without the risks of toxic fumes. They eliminate the need for fuel and are safe to use indoors — no worrying about carbon monoxide buildup or fire hazards. Simply unfold the solar panels, harness the sun’s power, and you’re good to go.

Whether it’s hurricanes, wildfires, earthquakes or power grid failures, solar energy offers a sustainable solution when traditional power sources fail. Renewable energy will play a bigger role in the future of disaster response, and Jackery is leading the way.

Preparedness Means Thinking Ahead for Any Scenario

Every year, as hurricane season rolls around, I remind people that preparedness is more than just stocking up on water and canned food. It’s about having the right tools to stay safe and connected — no matter the type of disaster. And that includes making sure you have reliable backup power.

Jackery’s newly released Explorer 5000 Plus is the next step in portable power. It offers even more capacity, flexibility and ease of use, making it perfect for homes, apartments, RVs or anyone on the move. Whether you’re facing down a hurricane, dealing with wildfire evacuations, or preparing for a cyberattack on the power grid, Jackery has a solution tailored to fit your needs.

A Solution for Every Hazard

After decades in emergency management, I don’t make recommendations lightly. But I’ve seen how critical power is during and after disasters. That’s why I trust Jackery as part of my personal preparedness strategy. It’s not just about getting through the storm — it’s about being ready for the long road to recovery, no matter what hazard comes your way.

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Start Strong: Strategic Planning and Insurance for the New Year

2024-12-12T08:31:00

(BPT) – The end of the year provides a natural moment for reflection. Millions of individuals take this time to make resolutions and set themselves up for a productive new year, and your business can benefit from the same approach. An annual review of your business can set the stage for a successful year ahead. From assessing goals and staffing needs to reviewing processes and identifying potential gaps, the new year is an ideal time for strategic alignment and planning.

According to research from Bridges Business Consultancy, 48% of leaders spend less than one day per month discussing strategy. It’s no surprise, then, that 48% of organizations fail to meet at least half of their strategic targets.

“With 2025 just around the corner, now is the perfect time to look back on the past year and recalibrate,” says Brittney Passini, director of commercial lines product development at Acuity Insurance. “What have you accomplished this year? Have you made any changes you need to account for in your planning for next year?”

Passini emphasizes that the new year is not only a time to evaluate performance and set business goals but also an opportunity to ensure your insurance coverage reflects your evolving business needs. Below, she offers four tips to help position your business for success:

  1. Review Last Year’s Performance. By analyzing your business’s financial performance, project completion, employee and client relationships, and more, you can identify the best next steps for your business. Reflect on your successes and setbacks to identify operational areas needing attention. Also important, evaluate how changes — such as increased property value, expanded operations or new risks — may impact your insurance coverage. A review of your performance should go hand in hand with a review of your risk exposures.
  2. Update Your Business Plan. Without clear goals, progress is difficult to measure. If you don’t already have specific business goals outlined, consider setting short- and long-term objectives. Rank and prioritize them based on return on investment, efficiency or productivity metrics so you can visualize progress and set priorities. Consider how trends and changes in the market, including shifts in consumer behavior and potential new regulatory requirements, could impact your goals.
  3. Conduct Your Annual Insurance Review. Expanding your business, changes to your operations and increasing property values can all impact your insurance needs. An annual policy review is a great idea to ensure your coverage reflects the realities of your business. Confirming your business has the right coverage can mean the difference between bouncing back from a loss and having to close your doors. This review provides a great opportunity to check if you have enough coverage for your growing business and are covered for risks you may not consider as often, including cyberthreats and supply chain disruptions. Partnering with your local insurance agent during this review can help ensure you have the right coverage tailored to your specific needs.
  4. Put an Emphasis on Safety. Operating safety can benefit your bottom line and retention as well as help maintain your reputation. Engaging with your insurance provider to identify risk management strategies for your business can amplify the benefits. Providers like Acuity offer loss control services that help you identify potential risks and take steps to mitigate them before they become accidents. Some techniques that can improve safety include updating training, completing risk assessments and implementing new safety measures. Working with loss prevention and risk management professionals from your insurance company can help you identify which strategies to take.

The new year is an ideal time to set your business up for success. Strategic planning should involve all aspects of your operations — including your insurance coverage. For help confirming your insurance is adequately serving your business, and to optimize risk management strategies, reach out to an independent insurance agent.

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14 million tons of plastic are dumped into the oceans each year. 6 ways you can help reduce waste

2024-12-12T13:31:00

(BPT) – The world’s oceans are a magical, beautiful ecosystem … and they also need help — urgently. According to the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, by 2050, there will be more plastic by weight than fish in the ocean. Let that sink in.

You may have heard of the Great Pacific Garbage Patch — a floating island the size of the state of Texas that is made of debris. And it is growing, in no small part because of how much plastic ends up in the oceans. The amount will boggle your mind. The U.N. Environment Program reports that the equivalent of a dump truck’s worth of plastic is dumped into the oceans every minute of every day. And every one of those plastic bottles will take more than 450 years to decompose.

The enormity of it is hard to get your mind around. If it makes you wonder what you can do about it, you’re not alone.

Plastics are considered to be an essential part of day-to-day life for humans, but overuse threatens the oceans we rely on for survival. It’s called the Blue Paradox. It has grown into a movement to address the global ocean plastic crisis and preserve the environment before it’s too late.

“As plastic waste finds its way to the ocean, it impacts all of us and the vast majority of species on our planet,” said Dr. M. Sanjayan, CEO of Conservation International, a nonprofit dedicated to improving people’s lives by protecting the oceans, forests and other living ecosystems. “The Blue Paradox brings the ubiquitousness and usefulness of plastic and the permanence and scale of its pollution front-and-center, encouraging individuals and businesses alike to take meaningful action.”

SC Johnson, the maker of Windex and other home cleaning brands, is working to turn the tide on ocean plastic waste. To clean up this plastic crisis, it’s not just about individuals being committed to recycling. It’s a collective effort from all of us — individuals, businesses and governments.

The ocean plastic crisis: How you can help

The problem seems daunting, but if everyone does a little, the changes will make a big difference. Here’s what you can do today to help.

Sign the petition. With over 14 million tons of plastic waste dumped in the oceans each year, according to a 2021 report by International Union for the Conservation of Nature, the ocean plastic crisis will not go away on its own, especially when microplastics are in our food chain. Disruptive change is needed, and the solutions can be complex, but we can work together to solve the crisis. Add your voice to this important issue by signing the petition on The Blue Paradox website to help reduce plastic waste.

Sign the pledge. The Blue Paradox website also has a pledge you can take to commit to reducing your plastic footprint. Our actions today can help impact tomorrow. When you sign the pledge, you’ll be kept in the know with information about Blue Paradox’s efforts, and how you’re making a difference.

Take the quiz. Wondering about your own plastic footprint? Here’s a quiz (blueparadox.com/en/plastic-waste-crisis) to let you know for sure. Be honest with your answers, and the quiz will calculate the number of pounds per year you contribute to the plastic landscape.

Reduce your use of single-use plastic where you can. This is easier than you might think. Small, tangible actions such as avoiding single-use plastics like utensils and coffee cups, and swapping out your single-use plastic water bottles for a reusable one, can make a huge difference.

Recycle your plastic. Pop it in the bin! It has never been easier to recycle plastic. Most rigid plastics today are recyclable. One tip: Give yours a quick rinse before tossing it into your recycling bin.

Buy products made from recycled plastic. Industry can do well by doing good … if there’s a market for it. When you’re buying plastic products, look for ones made from recycled plastic. Windex bottles, for example, have been made from 100% post-consumer recycled plastic since 2015. Windex also has the industry’s first bottle made with 100% recovered coastal plastic from a major home cleaning brand. Let’s all work together to create a huge market for products made from recycled plastic and watch how quickly we clean up this problem.

If everyone — including industry — does their part, we can reduce the amount of plastics in our oceans. A little effort today can ensure a more beautiful tomorrow. For more information, visit the Blue Paradox website at https://www.blueparadox.com/.

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The impact of summer enrichment programs on personal and academic growth

2024-12-12T10:01:00

(BPT) – For students with college in their future plans, summers are ideal for exploring academic and personal development opportunities. During the school year, students can feel overloaded with classwork and extracurricular activities, but the summer months offer time to delve into one academic interest in greater depth. The College Board recommends that students who intend to go on to college after high school attend advanced summer enrichment programs throughout their high school years to help provide an idea of what to expect from college-level coursework.

If your child might benefit from academic exploration in the summer, you may want to consider options for summer enrichment such as those available next summer through Stanford Pre-Collegiate Studies. These programs give your student the chance to engage in topics they’re passionate about, often in advanced subjects rarely taught during high school. Stanford Pre-Collegiate Studies’ summer programs create an environment where learning is highly valued and actively encouraged — fostering a mindset of curiosity and intellectual growth students will take with them long after the summer is over.

These programs impact students in a variety of ways:

Creating an environment where learning is highly valued and encouraged

Courses in the Stanford Pre-Collegiate Studies program encourage participants to follow their interests while showing respect for their learning journey.

“The Stanford Summer Humanities Institute was truly eye-opening and the highlight of my summer,” said Helen, Stanford Summer Humanities Institute participant. “The teachers and peers were constantly inspiring, and the course offered so much, helping me learn more about myself along the way.”

Fostering a mindset of curiosity, academic exploration and intellectual growth

Students in grades 8-11 are just beginning to explore the world around them, and their curiosity may feel limited by traditional school curriculum. A program that encourages their curiosity will lead to growth in their critical thinking skills, ability to research, and the capacity to see the wider context as well as the intriguing details of a topic.

Emphasizing the importance of education

Summer courses hosted by an excellent higher education institution and designed to foster deeper learning demonstrate the power and value of education. Program participants will experience firsthand how much their instructors and peers care about the topics they study, and also the very process of learning how to learn.

Motivating to pursue learning

Students involved in these enriching summer programs often feel an educational spark has been lit, inspiring them to go further with subjects that fascinate them.

“My experience was eye-opening, with engaging lectures and enjoyable interactions with like-minded individuals,” said Tawfik, Stanford Pre-Collegiate Summer Institutes participant. “The academic rigor and social activities offered were a perfect balance for making the whole experience memorable.”

Developing a deeper commitment to education

High-quality educational experiences at a young age will foster a desire to continue growing and learning at a deeper level throughout their lives — in college and beyond — which will inspire a greater dedication to learning.

“Being a part of Stanford Pre-Collegiate Summer Institutes was a fantastic experience. I can’t believe how much I learned in just two weeks,” said Divyansha, Stanford Pre-Collegiate Summer Institutes participant. “These invaluable lessons will help me in my academic journey.”

Here are two summer programs to consider.

Stanford Pre-Collegiate Summer Institutes

These are online, synchronous enrichment courses for students currently in grades 8–11. This program provides passionate and intellectually curious students with intensive study in a single course from advanced subjects rarely taught in high school, offering students the chance to dive deep into cutting-edge topics.

Students from around the world study and discuss academic topics in small classes, allowing them to participate in real-time discussions in which instructors and students interact with one another. Participants pursue in-depth, interactive exploration of academic material in a single subject per course, in fields including computer science, math, creative writing, social justice, engineering and more.

Stanford Summer Humanities Institute

This three-week residential program on Stanford University’s campus is for students currently in grades 10-11. Students from around the world explore big questions in the humanities through seminars led by Stanford professors and graduate students. Participants engage with one subject from a humanities topic such as literature, politics or philosophy — ranging from ancient Greek philosophy to the American Enlightenment and more.

During the three weeks, students investigate philosophical questions and pursue research topics while learning how to write college-level papers and communicate complex arguments.

These advanced, unique courses are offered for academic enrichment and growth, not for credit or a grade. The greatest value of participating in these programs is the experience itself, which provides growth and development in students’ talents and curiosity that will positively impact their educational journey.

To learn more and to apply to these summer enrichment programs, visit SummerHumanities.SPCS.stanford.edu and SummerInstitutes.SPCS.stanford.edu.