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Seven Tips For Buying A New Mattress

(NAPSI)—A mattress is one of the most important purchases you’ll ever make—after all, you spend approximately a third of your life in bed. Although the number of choices can feel overwhelming, you don’t have to lose sleep over it if you heed these hints:1. Size matters. If you’re sharing a bed, you should buy at least a queen-size mattress. A healthy person moves 40 to 60 times a night and makes lots of full-body turns. For sound sleep, you need freedom of motion.2. Test-drive different models. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes you can easily slip off so you can lie down. Compare a variety of support levels and styles within your budget. 3. Look under the hood. Ask the salesperson to show you illustrated or actual “cutaways” of the interior of the different mattresses and foundations. The mechanics of innersprings and foams vary widely, which can greatly affect comfort.4. Use a reputable dealer. Furniture stores, department stores and sleep specialty shops all sell mattresses. Ask friends and family for referrals. If you don’t feel your salesperson is knowledgeable or helpful, take your business elsewhere.5. Buying online? If you choose to buy a mattress online, you won’t have the chance to try it out, so read the reviews, carefully check return and shipping policies—and be certain there’s customer support should a problem arise.6. Go for the best value, not the lowest price. To ensure long-term performance, buy the highest-quality sleep set you can afford. View it as a 7- to 10-year investment in your health and well-being.7. Be sure it contains certified foam. A key consideration is that the flexible polyurethane foam in the mattress meets standards set by CertiPUR-US—a certification program administered by a not-for-profit organization—for content, emissions and durability. This internationally recognized foam certification program was established to combat substandard imported foams, some of which contained substances banned in the U.S. or listed by environmental and regulatory groups as containing chemicals that may cause cancer or genetic defects or damage fertility. The foam used in pillows and upholstered furniture can be certified, too.What Certification MeansWhen you buy products containing CertiPUR-US-certified foam, you can be confident that the flexible polyurethane foam inside has been tested and analyzed at least annually by independent accredited laboratories and is:•Made without ozone depleters•Made without PBDEs, TDCPP or TCEP (“Tris”) flame retardants•Made without mercury, lead and other heavy metals•Made without formaldehyde•Made without phthalates regulated by the Consumer Product Safety Commission•Made with low VOC (volatile organic compound) emissions for indoor air quality (less than 0.5 parts per million)Learn MoreFor further facts and tips and a list of participating companies, visit www.certipur.us.

Top Story

Ready for adventure? Expand your horizons from home

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(BPT) - Spending more time at home can be a great opportunity to find new avenues for expanding your horizons and learning more about the world — and beyond. Fortunately, there are plenty of enjoyable ways that you can explore different regions, cultures and even time periods from the comfort and safety of your own home.

Posted: September 23

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Pet Central

Having a pet is a lot of responsibility, and we’ll help by giving you lots of tips and tricks! More >>

Fitness

Our fitness articles will help teach you how to work out with gym- and home-based exercises. More >>

Crosswords

Enjoy the crosswords challenge in our free daily puzzles, from the harder Sunday crossword to the quicker daily. More >>

Sudoku

Every Sudoku has a unique solution that can be reached logically. Enter numbers into the blank spaces so that each row, column and 3x3 box contains the numbers 1 to 9. More >>

Recent Headlines

Wednesday 09/23/2020

5 surprising facts about beef and sustainability

Posted: September 23, 2020

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(BPT) - Beef is a staple in cuisines worldwide, valued for its flavor and nutrition. However, recent conversations about sustainability and the beef industry’s commitment to continued improvement have led to research on the issue — which has only served to demonstrate that the beef industry does in fact employ sustainability practices throughout each stage of the production process.

Rice: Fact vs. Fiction [Infographic]

Posted: September 23, 2020

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(BPT) - There’s a lot to know about rice, from what makes it delicious to its health benefits. However, sometimes what’s out there isn’t always accurate. Read below as RiceSelect separates fact from fiction about the world’s most popular grain.

Supporting Workers’ Mental Health

Posted: September 23, 2020

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(NAPSI)—The challenges brought to daily life by the COVID-19 pandemic have spurred many businesses to consider ways they can support employees’ mental health.

For help, businesses can turn to the Mental Health Toolkit developed by the U.S. Department of Labor-funded Employer Assistance and Resource Network on Disability Inclusion (EARN). The toolkit outlines strategies based around the “4 A’s of a Mental Health-Friendly Workplace”—awareness, accommodations, assistance and access.

Awareness involves educating workers about mental health issues and taking action to foster a supportive workplace culture.

Accommodations means providing employees with mental health conditions with the workplace supports they need to perform their jobs.

Assistance refers to supporting employees with mental health conditions, something many businesses do through employee assistance programs.

Finally, access means assessing healthcare plans to ensure coverage for mental health treatment, which has been shown to benefit not only employees, but also a business’ bottom line. According to the American Psychiatric Association, more than 80 percent of employees treated for mental health conditions report improved levels of efficiency and satisfaction at work.

The toolkit also includes examples of mental health initiatives implemented by businesses of varying sizes and industries.

Learn more at www.AskEARN.org/mentalhealth.

Don’t Risk A Ticket. Avoid Parking In Spots Reserved For People With Disabilities

Posted: September 23, 2020

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(NAPSI)—In the harried competition for close-in spots, normally courteous drivers engage in all kinds of parking taboos, many involving the use of parking spaces designated for the more than 30 million Americans with mobility-impairing disabilities. Fortunately, there are people doing something about it and you can help.

Who’s Doing What

Through the nonprofit Accessible Parking Coalition (APC), established by the International Parking and Mobility Institute, a national effort is underway to eliminate disabled placard abuse and make accessible parking more accessible.

What You Can Do

Here are seven reminders for every driver:

1.Remember that marked accessible parking spots are for people with disabilities (the term “handicapped” is outdated and offensive to many).

2.Unless authorized, never park in an accessible parking space—not even for a minute.

3.Never infringe on van-accessible parking spaces, which are designed for ramp- or lift-equipped vehicles. They are marked by signs that say, “Van Accessible” with the international symbol for accessibility. Many drivers using wheelchairs have nightmarish examples of waiting hours for the owners of a car parked too close to return so they could get in their vehicle.

4.Never park, block or leave a shopping cart in the cross-hatched, access aisle zones next to accessible parking spots.

5.Don’t borrow others’ disabled parking placards or use yours after it has expired or is no longer truly needed.

6.Follow the rules, but don’t be a parking vigilante. If you suspect illegal use of a spot, take a photo of the license plate and contact local law enforcement.

7.Remember that not all disabilities that affect mobility are apparent. Don’t assume someone is parking in a accessible spot illegally. A person with a respiratory or other ailment that makes walking difficult, for example, may be entitled to a disabled placard.

Eighty percent of people with parking placards agree accessible parking fraud is widespread. Disabled placard abuse and illegal use of accessible parking spaces are crimes that carry penalties. Many jurisdictions are cracking down, increasing fines—some more than $1,000 per violation—and setting up sting operations to catch offenders.

Learn More

For further facts, news and advice on this topic, visit www.accessibleparkingcoalition.org.

Seven Tips For Buying A New Mattress

Posted: September 23, 2020

Advertorial

(NAPSI)—A mattress is one of the most important purchases you’ll ever make—after all, you spend approximately a third of your life in bed. Although the number of choices can feel overwhelming, you don’t have to lose sleep over it if you heed these hints:

1. Size matters. If you’re sharing a bed, you should buy at least a queen-size mattress. A healthy person moves 40 to 60 times a night and makes lots of full-body turns. For sound sleep, you need freedom of motion.

2. Test-drive different models. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes you can easily slip off so you can lie down. Compare a variety of support levels and styles within your budget.

3. Look under the hood. Ask the salesperson to show you illustrated or actual “cutaways” of the interior of the different mattresses and foundations. The mechanics of innersprings and foams vary widely, which can greatly affect comfort.

4. Use a reputable dealer. Furniture stores, department stores and sleep specialty shops all sell mattresses. Ask friends and family for referrals. If you don’t feel your salesperson is knowledgeable or helpful, take your business elsewhere.

5. Buying online? If you choose to buy a mattress online, you won’t have the chance to try it out, so read the reviews, carefully check return and shipping policies—and be certain there’s customer support should a problem arise.

6. Go for the best value, not the lowest price. To ensure long-term performance, buy the highest-quality sleep set you can afford. View it as a 7- to 10-year investment in your health and well-being.

7. Be sure it contains certified foam. A key consideration is that the flexible polyurethane foam in the mattress meets standards set by CertiPUR-US—a certification program administered by a not-for-profit organization—for content, emissions and durability. This internationally recognized foam certification program was established to combat substandard imported foams, some of which contained substances banned in the U.S. or listed by environmental and regulatory groups as containing chemicals that may cause cancer or genetic defects or damage fertility. The foam used in pillows and upholstered furniture can be certified, too.

What Certification Means

When you buy products containing CertiPUR-US-certified foam, you can be confident that the flexible polyurethane foam inside has been tested and analyzed at least annually by independent accredited laboratories and is:

•Made without ozone depleters

•Made without PBDEs, TDCPP or TCEP (“Tris”) flame retardants

•Made without mercury, lead and other heavy metals

•Made without formaldehyde

•Made without phthalates regulated by the Consumer Product Safety Commission

•Made with low VOC (volatile organic compound) emissions for indoor air quality (less than 0.5 parts per million)

Learn More

For further facts and tips and a list of participating companies, visit www.certipur.us.

Talk To Your Healthcare Provider About A Better Way To Treat Migraine

Posted: September 23, 2020

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(NAPSI)—Contrary to popular belief, migraine is not just a bad headache. It’s a serious, often incapacitating, neurological disease.1 In addition to serious pain, migraine can also cause nausea or vomiting, as well as sensitivity to light, sounds and smell.2 Nearly 40 million people in the United States live with this debilitating health problem, but since not every migraine sufferer experiences migraine in the same way, finding the right treatment approach can be challenging.3,4 In fact, finding a fast-acting, easy-to-use treatment that does not aggravate migraine symptoms, such as nausea or vomiting, can feel like an uphill battle.

6 can't-miss Florida beach vacations for year-round travel

Posted: September 23, 2020

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(BPT) - If you’re gearing up for a fall getaway or looking to use some of your remaining vacation days this year, Florida has plenty of family-friendly, affordable options for you to consider. These six Florida destinations should be at the top of your list, since they’re known for their amazing scenery, exhilarating atmosphere and excellent accommodations all year long.

DIY projects to upgrade outdoor living spaces

Posted: September 23, 2020

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(BPT) - The ever-growing popularity of outdoor living combined with more time spent at home is causing many of us to tackle exterior home improvement projects. If you don’t mind getting your hands a bit dirty, here are some DIY ideas for all skill levels to help inspire home spruce-ups that will enhance the beauty and enjoyment of your outdoor spaces.

more headlines »

Wednesday 09/23/2020

How to prioritize breast health in the era of COVID-19

Updated: September 24, 2020 - 2:32 am

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(BPT) - With Breast Cancer Awareness Month approaching in October, breast health may be top of mind among many women this time of year. But as COVID-19 continues to spread in some areas of the country, some women may feel hesitant to get a mammogram or cancer treatment this fall. With one in eight women at risk of developing breast cancer, it is still important to prioritize your breast health. The latest advances in breast cancer detection and treatment can help you get the care you need and minimize your risk of virus exposure. Here’s what you need to know about going to — and staying out of — the doctor's office this year.

6 bucket list items to check off without leaving home

Posted: September 23, 2020

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(BPT) - It may be a while before you can see the sights in France or climb Mount Fuji in Japan. But even if your bucket list is dominated by world travel and adventure, that doesn’t mean you have to give up on it altogether. Instead, think outside the box, or the bucket in this case. You may be surprised by what you can “check off” from the comforts of home.

Goldfish Crackers Celebrates National Family Day with Exclusive Giveaway

Posted: September 23, 2020

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(BPT) - According to a new research study, Goldfish crackers uncovered that 91% of Americans who live with or visit children regularly feel that they would like to spend even more quality time with their family than they currently do! To encourage these family moments, Goldfish will release a one-of-a-kind GOldFISH card game via an Instagram giveaway, to help inspire valuable family bonding time and bring smiles to people of all ages. The giveaway launches today, and consumers can enter to win through National Family Day on Sept. 26, 2020. Inspired by a love for creativity, imagination and of course, everyone’s favorite #SnackThatSmilesBack, the game includes a pack of custom playing cards in the shape of iconic Goldfish crackers and a bag of Goldfish Colors crackers for snacking on while playing the game at home with loved ones.

Tired of takeout? Make your favorites at home instead

Posted: September 23, 2020

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(BPT) - When you’re short on time and the family’s hungry, it’s all too tempting — and too easy — to fall back on takeout. But the truth is, you can probably save yourself a trip by making those same takeout items at home. With some simple planning and the right ingredients, you’ll be able to whip up your favorite restaurant go-tos in record time.

How to Reduce Your Recovery Time After a Tough Workout

Posted: September 23, 2020

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(StatePoint) More Americans are investing their time and energy in the pursuit of fitness these days, with the percentage of people belonging to gyms and health clubs nearly doubling from 2000-2017, according to Statista. Beyond casual workouts, participation in extreme sports and endurance events has grown exponentially in the past 25 years. Whether you’ve recently started exercising, are ramping up your efforts or have always been an avid sports enthusiast, you’ve probably dealt with soreness and fatigue after a tough workout.

3 Ways to Get Fit as a Family this Fall

Posted: September 23, 2020

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(StatePoint) One of the keys to encouraging children to develop the healthy habit of regular exercise is to make fitness a priority in the home. With cooler weather and changing scenery to enjoy, autumn can be an ideal time to try new outdoor activities.

Social Media and Kids: What Parents Can Do to Ensure Safe Use

Posted: September 23, 2020

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(StatePoint) The negative effects of social media have been much discussed as of late, thanks to the recently released documentary on Netflix, “The Social Dilemma.”

Tuesday 09/22/2020

BookBites: Great Reading Ideas About Family Matters and Political Intrigue

Posted: September 22, 2020

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(NewsUSA)

Cómo ayudar a que su hijo perfeccione su experiencia universitaria con Amazon Prime Student

Updated: September 24, 2020 - 2:32 am

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(BPT) - Ahora que el verano pasa y el nuevo curso escolar ha llegado, los estudiantes se prepararán con vistas a un año que nada tiene de tradicional. Independientemente de que vuelvan al recinto universitario, asistan virtualmente al semestre, o cualquier variante de ambas modalidades, Amazon tiene a su disposición una ayuda imprescindible: Prime Student.

Free TV and other low-cost activities to cure boredom at home

Updated: September 24, 2020 - 2:32 am

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(BPT) - Social distance, remote work and shelter in place orders continue. As seasons change, the dropping temperatures drive more people indoors as well. Now that you're spending more time at home, what can you do to make the most of it? Many people want to find fun at-home activities that are budget-friendly to help them enjoy the extra time being spent indoors. You can maximize your home time, strengthen your relationships and make memories together with these low-cost ideas.

5 Things Women Should Know About PCOS

Updated: September 24, 2020 - 2:32 am

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(BPT) - Do you struggle with irregular periods? If so, you might be one of the 5 to 10% of women impacted by polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). PCOS is a hormonal disorder caused by elevated levels of male hormones, which can lead to irregular periods and a lack of ovulation. If ignored, PCOS can have a lasting impact on a woman’s health and fertility.

Your Future Protected: Considerations for Long-Term and Short-Term Care for Americans 50 and Older

Updated: September 24, 2020 - 2:32 am

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(BPT) - When planning for the future, security and peace of mind are likely top of mind, particularly for Americans age 50 and older. There are many considerations — from income planning for retirement, to considering potential healthcare needs, to getting one’s personal affairs in place. As you and your loved ones prepare for both expected and unforeseen events, you may want to add a long-term and short-term care strategy to your list to ensure your bases are covered for future care you may need as a result of the aging process.

Distance-Learning: What You Need to Succeed at Home

Updated: September 24, 2020 - 2:32 am

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(StatePoint) Is your family distance-learning? Having the resources you need at home can be the key to success. Here are a few tools to consider as you navigate an unusual school year:

Foot and Ankle Symptoms You Should Never Ignore

Updated: September 24, 2020 - 2:32 am

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(StatePoint) Many people deal with foot and ankle concerns by simply ignoring them, hoping the problem goes away. However, certain symptoms could be a sign of a serious condition, warn experts.

Monday 09/21/2020

Tips for tackling dry eye symptoms

Updated: September 24, 2020 - 2:32 am

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Survey Finds Breaks Help Prevent Work-From-Home Burnout [Infographic]

Updated: September 24, 2020 - 2:32 am

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(BPT) - Today, EPIC Provisions unveiled the results of a national survey it conducted to understand how Americans are faring in the new work-from-home environment that is dominating 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. While it’s no surprise that two-thirds (66%) of work from homers (WFHers) are feeling some degree of burnout, the findings also show that nearly one-third (32%) have thought about doing something completely different professionally.

Online Recovery Provides New Hope for People Battling Addiction

Updated: September 24, 2020 - 2:32 am

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(NAPSI)—If you or someone you care about is among the more than 42 million Americans battling addiction and struggling with the isolation and stress of the pandemic, there’s a ray of hope and a positive path forward in the form of online recovery and support programs. Among increased feelings of loneliness, depression and anxiety, therapy has become a necessity, and in the midst of COVID-19, the recovery community has pivoted to online meetings and teletherapy sessions to fight the war of isolation.

Before COVID-19 shut down life as we knew it, most people associated addiction recovery with meetings in church basements and community centers or 30-day stays in treatment centers. In fact, online recovery treatment and support has been around for more than 10 years and has proven as effective, if not superior to in-person treatment, according to the Department of Veterans Affairs.

In addition, an independent study conducted by Lionrock Recovery, a telehealth provider of substance use disorder treatment and support, showed that 80 percent of people in their online recovery meetings since the pandemic started, had never attended any support meetings—either online or in person - prior to the coronavirus outbreak. Half of those surveyed said they would attend only online meetings when restrictions were lifted. Nearly all of the participants (98 percent) said they would continue to attend online meetings, even when in person meetings become a viable option again. Lionrock has experienced over 400 percent growth in attendance of online recovery support meetings since the pandemic first caused national shutdowns in March.

Addiction Risk Rising With COVID-19: The Center for Disease Control (CDC) surveyed adults during late June to assess mental health, substance use, and suicidal ideation during the pandemic. The agency found an alarming 24.7 percent of young adults and 19.5 percent of adults ages 25 to 44 started or increased substance use to cope with pandemic-related stress or emotions in June, with the Black and Hispanic populations and essential workers disproportionately affected. However, the report concluded that expanded use of telehealth, an effective means of delivering treatment for mental health conditions, including depression, SUD, and suicidal ideation, might reduce COVID-19-related mental health consequences.

According to Peter Loeb, co-founder of Lionrock, one of the reasons telehealth is so effective in treating people with substance use disorder and supporting long-term recovery, is its flexibility and privacy. People can seek and receive HIPAA-compliant treatment from the privacy of their home, any time of day. To-date, a major barrier for people seeking treatment is the fear of stigma in their communities; online treatment’s privacy eliminates that concern.

The benefits of telehealth inspired Loeb to create National Online Recovery Day, which is celebrated on September 22, as part of National Recovery Month. National Online Recovery Day is a campaign to raise awareness for online treatment of substance abuse. It is the first national health awareness day focused on the benefits and advantages of telehealth services for any health issue.

While 42.2 million people need treatment, SAMHSA data reveals only 4 million people actually receive it. The COVID-19 pandemic threatens to create an epidemic from substance abuse, but by improving awareness of, and access to, online care, more Americans can receive the care and support they need.

Learn More

To learn more about online recovery for substance use disorders visit www.NationalOnlineRecoveryDay.com.

New study on heart health: Get more omega-3s

Updated: September 24, 2020 - 2:32 am

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(BPT) - If you’re trying to improve your heart health, chances are you’re doing things like moving more and eating better. Making sure your diet delivers heart-healthy nutrients, including healthy fats, is a smart strategy. A new study from Mayo Clinic Proceedings provides more evidence on why certain fats — namely EPA and DHA omega-3s — are so important, and why you probably need to be getting even more than you think.

What to expect at your next dental visit

Updated: September 24, 2020 - 2:32 am

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(BPT) - Going to the dentist has always been an important part of the overall health care routine. Even now, regular dental appointments are critical to good overall health and it is safe to see your dentist.

Raise A Glass to Farmers in Need this September

Posted: September 21, 2020

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How to beat “Blursday”

Posted: September 21, 2020

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(BPT) - Wondering how to beat Blursday and keep your days straight?

Cuestionario En-Linea Ayuda a Personas Mayores Prevenir y Protegerse de Caidas

Posted: September 21, 2020

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(NewsUSA) - La pandemia del coronavirus ha cambiado muchas cosas. Pero hay algo que no ha cambiado: caerse NO es una parte normal del envejecimiento. Hay medidas que puede tomar para reducir su riesgo.

Americans want a community garden now more than ever [Infographic]

Updated: September 24, 2020 - 2:32 am

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(BPT) - Over the last few months, we’ve grown together as neighbors, and grown to realize the importance of our local communities — especially community farms and gardens that not only serve as a source of fresh, sustainable produce, but as a place to connect. A recent survey by Pure Farmland uncovers just how important these green spaces are to Americans.

Why it's now, more than ever, important to get a flu vaccine

Updated: September 24, 2020 - 2:32 am

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(BPT) - Flu causes millions of illnesses, hundreds of thousands of hospitalizations, and tens of thousands of deaths in the United States yearly. This year, because of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is more important than ever to get a flu vaccine to protect yourself, your family and your community from flu and its potentially serious consequences.

Shop Smart This October to Benefit Breast Cancer Patients

Updated: September 24, 2020 - 2:32 am

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(StatePoint) It is not always easy to tell how your charitable dollars are going to be used, especially during National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Saturday 09/19/2020

Unlock nostalgia on your favorite music and podcast streaming app

Updated: September 24, 2020 - 2:32 am

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(BPT) - There’s something about songs and stories that have the power to stick with us through the years. There are certain tracks that make us feel good no matter how many times we listen, and certain conversations that we can’t seem to get out of our heads.

How to Shop for a Medicare Plan from Home

Updated: September 23, 2020 - 2:30 am

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(StatePoint) Every year, eligible individuals can shop for a health plan during Medicare’s Annual Election Period (AEP), which runs from Oct. 15 through Dec. 7. Doing so can potentially improve your coverage, lower your costs or both. The options are many, including Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage (MA) plans, Medicare Supplement plans and Prescription Drug Plans.

Friday 09/18/2020

5 simple tips to make family meals count

Updated: September 24, 2020 - 2:32 am

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(BPT) - While coordinating regular family meals can sometimes be challenging, the benefits of spending time around the table with loved ones are definitely worth the extra effort. Family meals not only help strengthen relationship bonds, but can also be linked to higher self-esteem, positive social behaviors and higher grades in school for kids.

How to Create and Maintain New Fitness Habits During A Pandemic

Updated: September 24, 2020 - 2:32 am

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(NAPSI)—The COVID-19 pandemic has made simple acts like seeing friends and family, going to the grocery store, or celebrating a life milestone more complicated. However, it has simplified the ability to create and maintain new fitness habits. Exercise physiologist and Bowflex Fitness Advisor Tom Holland says that since our time isn’t as compartmentalized as before, we have the opportunity to be more mindful and make healthy changes to our lifestyles, including the following:

1.Try something new in the comfort of your own home

At home you can experiment with new stretches, workouts, and equipment without feeling the pressure of a gym setting. For a unique indoor cycling experience, the new Bowflex VeloCore bike (https://www.bowflex.com/bikes/velocore/velocore-bike.html) offers a choice between the traditional stationary setting, and lean mode – with a side-to-side leaning motion that mimics the feel of riding on an open road. The VeloCore bike integrates the JRNY platform, which delivers engaging digital content on a large touch screen, and custom coaching and workouts. It also connects with third-party cycling apps, including Peloton and Zwift. With products like this, you don’t need to leave your home to have a challenging and fun workout.

2.Eat healthier because you are not eating out

Restaurant portions are often two to three times larger than the recommended healthy portion sizes. Now, most of us are eating at home more frequently, and it’s an ideal time to develop healthy eating habits. You can cook every meal while being mindful of nutritional value and avoid the typical tempting foods that would be available at a restaurant by buying healthier options.

3.Build out your home gym

According to a recent survey conducted on Nautilus, Inc.’s behalf by YouGov, the percentage of consumers* working out at home on a weekly basis has increased from 43% before COVID to 73% during COVID.

Regardless of your home’s size, investing in versatile and space-efficient fitness equipment, such as the Bowflex SelectTech 2080 barbell with curl bar (www.bowflex.com/selecttech/2080-barbell/100874.html)—which offers seven incremental weights in one—means you’ll have 24/7 access to a calorie-burning workout on your own schedule.

Now, there are no more excuses for not having a healthy lifestyle or fitting in a workout. The only thing holding you accountable is yourself. That’s why Holland recommends starting these habits now, so you’ll be more likely to continue working out and eating healthy even past the pandemic.

Citation: *All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. Total sample size was 1066 US adults aged 18 to 64 years old who have spent $500 or more on fitness in the past year. Fieldwork was undertaken between July 27 to August 3, 2020. The survey was carried out online.

After Her Unexpected Diagnosis, Danita Knew Her Sister’s Symptoms Required a Conversation With a Doctor

Updated: September 24, 2020 - 2:32 am

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(BPT) - Shortness of breath. Heart palpitations. When Danita first noticed these occasional abnormalities, she didn’t give them much thought. After all, she figured, aging and menopause can bring their fair share of physical changes, and the feelings would always go away.

Back to school in the new normal: What teachers need most this fall

Updated: September 24, 2020 - 2:32 am

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(BPT) - Heading back to school during the COVID-19 pandemic means most of our nation’s teachers are facing unprecedented challenges this year.

Once a crisis moment, now a manageable situation: First autoinjector to treat severe hypoglycemia

Updated: September 24, 2020 - 2:32 am

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(BPT) - As the country continues to navigate uncertainties surrounding COVID-19, it seems like there are new questions and decisions that pop up each day. What does heading back to school or work look like? How should my family commute in the safest way? How can I continue to minimize the risk of exposure when I’m surrounded by more people during the day?

Top Gifts to Show Appreciation for Teachers

Updated: September 23, 2020 - 2:30 am

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(StatePoint) When it comes to showing teachers appreciation for all that they do, a personal gift is always appreciated. However, sometimes what they really want is the proper tools to help them in the classroom.

5 fall tips for protecting your pet’s health

Updated: September 24, 2020 - 2:32 am

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(BPT) - Whether fall is when you switch out your exercise regimen or schedule your annual flu shot, staying healthy is at the top of most “to do” lists right now. Just remember your four-legged family members when considering seasonal changes to your wellness program. Fall is the perfect time to take steps to keep pets healthy, too.

Thursday 09/17/2020

BookBites: A Reading Potpourri of Fiction, Nonfiction and Spiritual

Posted: September 17, 2020

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(NewsUSA) -

The benefits of biking for kids

Updated: September 24, 2020 - 2:32 am

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(BPT) - For kids, biking is one of the gateways to growing up. Popular films and TV hits such as “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial” and “Stranger Things” highlight the joy a bike can bring as a fun way to explore or spend time kicking around the neighborhood. Yet, according to a study from the Outdoor Industry Association, bike riding among kids declined 19% between 2007 and 2019.

How Small Business Owners are Shifting the Way They Do Business [Video]

Updated: September 24, 2020 - 2:32 am

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Bridging the Gap: Tips for Young Adults with SCD Transitioning from Pediatric to Adult Care [Infographic]

Updated: September 19, 2020 - 2:34 am

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(BPT) - In recognition of Sickle Cell Awareness Month, we take the opportunity to highlight the challenges young adults with sickle cell disease (SCD) face when transitioning from pediatric to adult medical care. SCD is a lifelong inherited blood disorder that mainly affects people of African ancestry and other minorities. Complicating matters, people with SCD are at increased risk of severe illness from COVID-19, adding an additional layer of stress. Check out the infographic below for tips on how patients can take an active role as they navigate this transition during the pandemic. Visit https://sicklecellspeaks.com/ for more information.

How to boost mood and memory at home

Updated: September 24, 2020 - 2:32 am

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(BPT) - Society has become much better at recognizing the importance of mental wellness practices. It’s now common knowledge that exercise, a healthy diet and quality sleep are essential to both physical and mental health. This is great progress, but many people overlook other ways to take care of mind and mood besides treating the body.

Expert tips and tricks you need to know to make every brunch your best brunch

Updated: September 24, 2020 - 2:32 am

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(BPT) - For many, regular brunch gatherings may have fallen by the wayside in recent months. With the changing of seasons, it’s time to bring brunch back to create warm memories as the weather cools. If your go-to brunch plans are no longer possible, start thinking about creating a new routine and hosting a fabulous brunch in the safety and comfort of your home, outdoor living space or virtually.

Beyond pumpkin spice: How to spruce up fall snacks

Updated: September 24, 2020 - 2:32 am

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(BPT) - When fall arrives, a whole new array of taste possibilities opens up for snacking and entertaining. But if you’re tired of the same old pumpkin spice everything, why not try something new? Offer friends and family a bold new chip flavor that brings out the best in seasonal favorites — and is perfect to add to meals and for straight up snacking.

How Americans View Recycling

Updated: September 22, 2020 - 2:32 am

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(NAPSI)—At the beginning of the coronavirus quarantines you likely heard about and even experienced shortages of popular paper products, such as toilet paper and paper towels. But did you know recycling can help with these shortages? If you’ve never thought about it, you aren’t alone. New research conducted by the Carton Council of North America reveals that most consumers fail to make the connection between recycling paper at home and providing feedstock for new paper products.

Recycling actually plays an important role in fostering a circular economy as it provides materials that are needed to make new products and packaging. For example, food and beverage cartons, which are used to package products including milk, juice, soup and broth, when recycled, can go on to make new paper products such as toilet paper, paper towels and tissues. In fact, the federal government and states that issued “stay-at-home” orders largely decided recycling businesses were essential, reinforcing the importance of recycling.

Keep Up Recycling

The good news is people report they are keeping up their recycling during the pandemic. According to the same survey, almost a third of consumers report they’ve been recycling more during the pandemic and 56% have been recycling the same. While promising, especially as the industry works hard to maintain recycling programs when possible, the survey also revealed that consumers don’t understand the impact between recycling and the new products created. When asked how much impact recycling at home has on helping with paper shortages, 33% of consumers reported they thought recycling might have some impact on helping with the shortages, but they were not sure how much it really helped. While 18% felt recycling had no impact at all on alleviating shortages, 13% were unsure and had not thought about the connection.

Expert Opinions

“It’s great to see that people are either continuing to recycle at the same rate or recycling even more since spending increased time at home and generating more waste,” said Carla Fantoni, Vice President of Communications for the Carton Council of North America and for Tetra Pak Americas. “We encourage Americans to be even more diligent about recycling, recognizing the important role it plays in our supply chain and building of a circular economy.”

The fortunate fact is food and beverage cartons, made mainly of paper, are a recyclable material that provides needed feedstock for paper mills to create new paper products.

“Food and beverage cartons contain high-quality fiber which we desire to help us keep up with demand for products like toilet paper, tissues, and paper towels,” explained Michele Bartolini, Senior Marketing Director for Sustana. “As the nation opens up, we will continue to need paper feedstock to produce new paper materials. If cartons aren’t recycled and end up in a landfill, we are losing the opportunity to utilize that material.”

Learn More

For further facts, visit RecycleCartons.com.

3 Ways To Boost Your Business During A Crisis

Updated: September 24, 2020 - 2:32 am

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(NAPSI)—If you’re a business owner and you haven’t already pivoted your business model to accommodate the pandemic, you could be missing out on higher revenue opportunities. A June 2020 GetApp.com survey found that 92% of small businesses in the U.S. had already done so, adding elements such as online sales, takeout and to-go orders, virtual offerings and more. Such companies were three times more likely to report higher-than-expected revenues than those that didn’t. That’s a significant number, and it’s incredible news considering the far-reaching economic downturn.

If your company has already made changes, it’s not time to take your foot off the gas just yet. Many businesses went into emergency mode after the crisis and put a quick solution in place. This is great and necessary for the short term, but it’s not enough. It’s crucial to keep adapting as the crisis continues. It’s now time to think about the long term. Do you have the right technology in place to support your business goals for the next five years? What about the next 10? Technology is such an important part of the recipe for business success as we move into a more digitally connected world.

If those numbers about higher-than-expected revenue have convinced you it’s time to add more digital revenue streams, take a look at three of the most common business pivots made by business owners we surveyed and how you can build on them for long-term success.

Pivot 1: Adopt a new online delivery channel. Most people we spoke to have incorporated more digital elements to their business, such as online ordering for restaurants or using eCommerce software to set up online product sales. While many small businesses may have already wanted to go digital, COVID-19 forced them to change quickly and rush to get a minimally viable product up and running.

How to build on this: Small businesses that have invested in IT and software since the pandemic and see technology as a driver right now are able to thrive. Take restaurants as an example. Before COVID-19, many only had an online booking system. Now, having a point-of-sale (POS) platform that enables curbside pickup and local delivery is essential.

Pivot 2: Develop a new virtual service. Two out of five GetApp.com survey respondents added a new virtual service to their offerings. Think of a fitness class offering training or a craft cocktail bar offering mixology classes online using a video conferencing platform.

How to build on this: Don’t feel limited to recreating an in-person experience online. The video conferencing technology available now opens the doors to a lot of innovative ideas. For example, while some virtual workout attendees may enjoy meeting at the same time as their classmates, there’s no reason fitness centers couldn’t record a class and offer it on demand for those who aren’t able to make a 6 a.m. workout. Think of it as the ability to reach even more customers than you may have been able to with in-person offerings.

Pivot 3: Create a new offline delivery channel. Business owners are also adding new offline offerings. In our survey, this was the third most popular business model change. Yes, digital transformation is incredibly important for your business, but offline channels work hand in hand with your software tools. How to build on this: eCommerce and POS software vendors are moving quickly to ensure their platforms include curbside, takeout and online ordering as an option. Find a vendor that allows this as an add-on or included as part of your software so you can keep revenue up during a time of social distancing. Once you have a solid platform in place, ensure it’s backed by an offline process and marketing plan so customers know about your new services.

Next steps: You may not have the right software in place to grow your business. Whether you’re still thinking about changing your business model or have already added new offerings to your lineup, it’s important to have the right software in place. It’s always easier to scale once you have a solid foundation. The right software can help support your business model changes to ensure you’re able to not just survive the current economic downturn, but grow your business for years to come.

For more tips about how software can help grow your business, visit GetApp.com/resources.

Tips on Getting Your Kids (of All Ages) Involved in Planning Travel, According to a Family Psychologist

Updated: September 24, 2020 - 2:32 am

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(BPT) - With travel mostly on pause, many people are spending time at home with their families, dreaming about their next vacation. This time together creates the perfect opportunity to engage the whole family in planning the next adventure and make memories before the trip even begins.

Hairy Hometowns: Top 10 Cities for Fans of Facial Hair

Posted: September 17, 2020

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(BPT) - They’re infiltrating social media, they’re making surprise appearances in video calls — one might be looking back at you in the mirror. Don’t worry, they’re hairy but harmless — they’re ‘Quarantine Beards.’ Be it boredom or experimentation, 2020 is seeing more men jump on the bearded bandwagon. So whether you’re new to the beard-growing game or a long-time enthusiast, you’ll want to check out the seventh annual ‘Top 10 Most Facial Hair Friendly Cities in America’ list from men’s grooming leader Wahl.

Ahora es el momento de volver a ver a su alergista

Posted: September 17, 2020

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(BPT) - Desde el inicio de la pandemia, muchos estadounidenses han cancelado o pospuesto visitas al médico que no sean de emergencia. Al inicio las consultas estaban cerradas temporalmente, pero luego los pacientes evitaron el contacto personal con los médicos por temor a contagiarse con la COVID-19.

Go with the flow: Why good circulation is important, especially now

Updated: September 24, 2020 - 2:32 am

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(BPT) - When you think about circulation issues, cold hands and feet probably pop to mind. It’s true that cold extremities are frequently the result of poor blood circulation, especially if you have anemia, arterial disease, diabetes or hypothyroidism. But as your blood travels all over your body, it’s not just warming your extremities — it’s bringing oxygen and nutrients to every one of your cells (and taking waste products away). This orchestrated distribution of blood is key to your survival. That’s why good circulation is so important to all aspects of your health.

How to help your student upgrade their college experience with Amazon Prime Student

Updated: September 24, 2020 - 2:32 am

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(BPT) - Now that summer is behind us and the new school year is finally here, students are preparing for an untraditional year. Whether students are heading back to campus, attending the semester virtually or anything in between, Amazon has a great deal to help them out — Prime Student.

Premixed chemotherapy mitigates risks of drug exposure for healthcare workers

Updated: September 24, 2020 - 2:32 am

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(BPT) - Medication is essential for cancer patients in treating their disease. However, there are inherent risks associated with compounding and administering chemotherapies for intravenous infusion. Risk mitigation is important for the well-being of healthcare workers who may be exposed to hazardous materials.

Treat Your Allergy Symptoms from Home and Avoid COVID-19 Fears

Updated: September 24, 2020 - 2:32 am

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(BPT) - If you’re a seasonal allergy sufferer, there’s never been a better time to get your symptoms correctly diagnosed, treated and under control.

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