3 Ingredients to A Successful Business

BURTON CAMPERS

     RVs. Recreation Vehicles. To some it is a luxury and to others it is a home. This is something Burton Campers has always understood about customer service. In business for almost 50 years, and happily serving Shelby County for more than 40 years. They started as an RV dealership in Jasper and then a few years later moved their operation to Calera right off of Interstate 65. 

     You can’t miss the big blue building with a gigantic billboard right off exit 231. Now, Burton Campers is an exclusive Jayco dealer where they once sold several other brands. Over the years the one thing that hasn't wavered, is the quality that is Jayco. RVs have come a long way in the last 40 years. From small pop-up style campers to fully loaded camping homes. Standard options on an RV today were a luxury several years ago. At the campsite, you no longer have to miss the big game. Take the day to go fishing and then you come back to your RV to sit in your electric recliner chair with heated seats and watch your favorite football team on your smart tv with your family. And that is just the tip of the iceberg. Burton Campers has been riding the wave of camping for a long time. 

     They have seen years of recession as well as the years of huge progress. When Covid hit, jobs were lost, money was tight, and everyone thought the first to go would be luxury purchases including RVs. What we didn’t expect is the RV market to burst wide open. People who had never considered buying before were now waiting in line at the door for their new RV. What changed the market for camping? In the midst of the pandemic, everyone was worried about traveling for work and vacation. We were all locked in our homes for months, years for some, only able to leave for work and essential errands. But people had lives they wanted to live and vacations they didn't want to cancel. Traveling became a dangerous game. 

    One contaminated hotel room led to weeks in bed and confinement and exposure to loved ones. It wasn’t long before people were looking for options to keep some normalcy in their lives and everyone realized that RVs were the answer they were looking for. You could travel with the safety and peace of mind that you were limiting your exposure to the public. The calls started pouring in, RV dealerships started filling up and inventory slowly started to dwindle. That trip to the beach was enjoyed from the RV park instead of the condo. Careers that involve traveling could still go to work. Before we knew it, everyone was running out of inventory. We had wait lists of customers expecting their camper to come in any day. Some even waited months for the perfect RV because options were far and few in between. At one point, Burton Campers had a total of 15 RVs to choose from on their lot. How did they stay in business with so little inventory and such a high demand? 

    Customer service. RVs are for everyone, from camping in, to living in, to vacationing in. They will help you find the perfect RV no matter your needs without the pressure. Take a stroll around their lot and see for yourself the Burton Campers difference. Everyday Burton Campers goes the extra mile for their customers, even the ones who don’t buy. And it starts with great leadership. Mickey Price has been the sales manager at Burton Campers for 15 years. 

    They have some customers who are buying their sixth RV from them because they treat them like family and friends. Mickey takes extra care in remembering everyone who sits in his office whether they are looking to buy, consign or just visit. Yes, you read that correctly, just visit. Some customers feel so much like family they regularly stop in for a visit with Mickey and he takes the time with each and every person that sits in front of him. “We just believe in doing the right thing,” Mickey always says. Jody Garner, the general manager, regularly meets with staff to form solutions and work with team members one on one. 

     He has worked in our PDI department, service department, parts department and now regularly in our sales department. He wanted to learn what it was like to do each job, so he could better help Burton Campers and its employees succeed. He enjoys meeting new customers and helping in any way that he can. This past year, in October 2022, Burton Campers ran in a charity run for Magic Moments and Jody was there right alongside other employees running to the finish line. But great leadership doesn’t end there. Burton Campers is a family owned and operated business. 

     The owner, Lisa Burton, and her daughter, Laurie Garner, are there every day working alongside other employees making sure everyone is working cohesively. It is not unusual to see Lisa or Laurie pass through the sales office to check on things or to visit. No one tenses up and mutters, “the boss is coming!” when they are on their way. It’s an environment where everyone feels like family. Several of their employees have been with Burton Campers so long because of this. One employee, Carol Moore, has been with Burton Campers for 35 years as a sales associate and plans to retire with the company. The finance manager, Loray Lamar, has been with them for 16 years. If you bring your RV in for service, you probably know Lyle Thomas, the long-standing service manager that has been with the company almost as long as it has been open in Calera. 

     It speaks volumes for a company to have so many long-standing employees. It's what sets them apart from other RV dealerships. The secret is in the sauce. Burton Campers is an example of if you take care of your employees, your employees will take care of you. And that is exactly what they have done. Excellent customer service, happy employees and great leadership is the Burton Campers formula to a successful business that will withstand through the eb and flow of any market. And now Burton Campers sits with over 150 campers on their lot ready to take on the next year. 

 Written By Alexis Haynes

Protecting Children in a Digital Age

Keeping a watchful eye on your kids requires an increasing level of tech savvy many parents find intimidating. Not only are your kids vulnerable to bad actors online, but your family’s personal information could be at risk, as well.

Learn how to protect your children and family in this digital age with these tips:

Elementary-Age Children

• Encourage open communication. Have conversations about what your kids see and do online and talk with them about potential dangers. Avoid lecturing in favor of an open exchange of information.

• Make their inherent interest in privacy work in your favor. Kids in this age group, particularly toward the middle school years, understand the concept of privacy and value it immensely. Use that context to help them understand what goes online is there to stay. Talk about what kinds of information should always be kept private, including identifying details like addresses and social security numbers.

• Stay on alert. Not all apps are completely safe (even the ones you can access from trusted stores) and not all filters are foolproof. Keep close tabs on what your kids are downloading by reading comments and reviews, and regularly monitoring what kind of content they see.

Middle School and High School Kids

• Continue talking about privacy. You can never have too many conversations about privacy. What seems like harmless sharing on social media can be quite revealing. For example, frequent posts about visits to a favorite store or restaurant can allow a predator to begin tracking behavior patterns that make your child a target. It’s also important for kids to understand how their privacy settings work. For example, settings that allow exposure to friends of friends make their visibility to strangers much broader than they may realize.

• Help manage their online reputation. Behaviors that once resulted in a day or two of hallway chatter can now live forever. Documenting mischief online is only fun until it spills over into real life and everyone sees those mistakes in full color – including prospective future employers.

• Be clear about your position on bullying. From the safe distance of a screen, it’s easier for kids (and adults) to say things they’d never say in person. Teach your kids to handle problems constructively offline and avoid engaging in attacks on others through social media, email and other platforms.

College Students

• Reinforce the risks. Once they’re on their own, kids may feel more liberated to make their own choices online. However, college students are easy prey for identity theft and worse. Remind them what’s at stake if they fail to protect their identity and private information, like where they live and what they do on a regular basis.

• Teach smart practices. With all the independence that comes with college life, this is an ideal time for your student to take personal responsibility for his or her online security, including learning about virus protection, updating software, avoiding scams and backing up data.

If you’re looking for more practical advice for everyday family matters, visit eLivingtoday.com.

 

SOURCE:
Family Features

Top 5 Smartphone Features You Can’t Live Without

     Smartphones are our lifeline – we use them to connect us to just about everything and everyone in our world. Americans check their phones an average of 344 times a day — once every four minutes — according to a 2022 Review.org survey. But when was the last time you upgraded your phone? If it’s been more than two years, you may be missing out on some of the latest tech upgrades. Here are five must-have features to consider when shopping for a new smartphone: 

    Battery Life: When it comes to battery life, you may not realize what you’ve been missing out on until you start using your new phone.

      

    A decade ago, smartphone battery capacity ranged from 1560mAh to 3200mAh, according to findings from Android Authority. Today, that capacity typically ranges from 4000mAh to 5000mAh, with some batteries as large as 6000mAh. And, the latest development of USB-C ports has allowed for faster charging capabilities, charging a near dead phone in just 30 minutes. Look for phones with fast charging technology, from 15W to 20W, and wireless charging options. Phone Storage: Storage matters, especially if you’re a business owner, gaming enthusiast or social media influencer. 

     

     Read-Only Memory (ROM), the internal main storage on your phone, allows you to store media, files and games, and ranges anywhere from 64GB to 128GB, even 256GB and higher in some of the latest models. Random Access Memory (RAM) is used for short-term data like apps, photos and videos. The more RAM you have, the more multitasking you can do. When purchasing a new phone, look for at least 6GB to 8GB of RAM and 128GB of ROM. 

    Camera: Phones have nearly replaced traditional cameras, with 90% of people using only their smartphones to take photos versus digital cameras, according to 3D Insider. If you’re an avid photo taker, make sure your new phone features editing software, a variety of camera lenses, like ultra-wide and telephoto, and special functions like night mode to optimize lighting. 

     Network: How you stay connected is an important decision. The latest deals can help you select a phone and wireless provider. For example, Samsung just unveiled its latest Galaxy S23 lineup, and T-Mobile is the only provider that can light up 5G standalone three-carrier aggregation, unleashing faster speeds and better responsiveness for some of the newest 5G smartphones – 16% faster speeds on average than phones without it. And switching to what studies have shown is America's largest, fastest and most reliable 5G network comes with perks. 

    New customers can get $200 off via a virtual prepaid card (allow 8 weeks) for each line they switch to T-Mobile ­– that’s $800 off for a family of four. And paired with T-Mobile’s offer to save $800 on the new Samsung Galaxy S23 lineup via bill credits when they choose the Magenta Max plan, that family gets four new phones and saves a total of $4000. To learn more about Samsung’s latest Galaxy S23 Series lineup, visit www.t-mobile.com/cell-phones/brand/samsung. 

     Security: Gone are the days of remembering a PIN or typing in a password to safely access your phone’s data. Biometric security features like fingerprint, facial or voice recognition are crucial for keeping your private data secure. Most new smartphones feature in-display fingerprint screening and facial recognition, and more institutions like online banking apps are using this method now over passwords. Other important deciding factors include overall phone display, size and water resistance. Priorities may vary from person to person, but selecting what’s important for your new smartphone is something only you can determine.

River Cruises Offer Exploration, Comfort

Travel for pure enjoyment is on the rise, so this may be your year to plan the ultimate dream vacation.

According to Sports and Leisure Research, 80% of people surveyed believe a vacation does wonders for mental health and travel is a top spending priority in the coming year. The survey indicated travelers want to immerse themselves in unique experiences, including new cultures, foods and people.

For those who delight in exploring entire regions, one downfall can be the burden of packing and unpacking at each new destination. Taking your accommodations with you is a practical alternative for curious travelers.

River voyages, for example, allow travelers to unpack once and visit multiple destinations in one seamless journey, from major European cities to quaint towns and villages. These destination-focused journeys offer experienced travelers the opportunity to explore science, history and cuisine with culturally enriching itineraries on the world’s great waterways.

If an intimate, relaxed journey is your ideal getaway, you may want to consider the revolutionary Viking Longships. These state-of-the-art river ships are engineered with guests’ comfort and exploration in mind.

Sailing Europe’s storied rivers, the award-winning fleet of identical longships showcase innovative engineering, streamlined Scandinavian design and understated elegance. River ships are also small enough – hosting 190 guests – to dock in the heart of popular destinations, making it easy to explore.

The voyages range from 8-23 days with itineraries featuring Europe’s Rhine, Main, Danube, Seine, Rhône, Douro, Moselle, Elbe, Dordogne, Garonne and Gironde Rivers.

Known as travel experiences for “The Thinking Person,” each Viking journey includes a shore excursion in every port and an onboard and onshore enrichment program that provides deep immersion in the destination through performances of music and art, cooking demonstrations, informative port talks and carefully selected guest lecturers. Enjoy shore excursions that provide historical tours and visits to unique haunts where you can experience some of the local culture, regional foods and everyday life.

On a Viking Longship, you can expect to relax in spacious public areas, including wide-open sun decks with ever-changing views. The ships feature spacious staterooms in a variety of categories, including true two-room suites with full-size verandas.

Additional ship highlights include al fresco dining on an indoor-outdoor terrace and onboard amenities including a restaurant, bar, lounge and library. Inclusive fares that cover your port taxes and fees also mean you can enjoy beer, wine and soft drinks with onboard lunch and dinner; specialty coffees, teas; bottled water; ground transfers; and more.

Chart your next adventure at viking.com.

 

SOURCE:
Viking River Cruises

Dishing Out the Facts on Good Fats

For those seeking to be more health-conscious, the idea of eating nutritiously seems simple. However, understanding what’s truly “good for you” can sometimes be confusing.

In honor of National Nutrition Month and Healthy Fats Day in March, Avocados From Mexico is sharing how avocados – a super good food and source of good fats and several vitamins – make everything better. Avocados From Mexico conducted a survey and found that while 76% of respondents believe fat is an essential component of a healthy diet, less than one-third are confident they know why it’s important to have “good fats” in their diets.

For starters, according to the survey, nearly half of Americans didn’t realize foods with good fats, like avocados, can help with weight management. However, monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats found in avocados can lower the risk of becoming overweight, according to research published in “Nutrients.”

“Most people are aware of the Mediterranean Diet, but nearly half (40%) of survey respondents didn’t realize that this eating pattern does not limit fat coming from plantsources like avocados,” said nutrition expert and registered dietitianBarbara Ruhs. “These types of unsaturated good fats are also recommended by the American Heart Association for heart health. Eating avocados in place of foods containing saturated fat is an easy and delicious way to approach healthy eating.”

Virtually the only fresh fruit with good fats, avocados can help people meet both good fat and fruit and vegetable recommendations in the same bite with approximately 6 grams of good fats per serving (one-third of a medium avocado). They are nutrient-dense, making avocados a superfood with super benefits. Avocados are also free of cholesterol and sodium and have nearly 20 vitamins and minerals.

Another finding from the survey is that while people believe fat is essential to a healthy diet, one-third of survey respondents believe saturated and trans fats are associated with health benefits, indicating confusion about the various types of fats. Many Americans need to balance their overall fat intake by reducing “bad” or saturated fat intake and increasing “good” or unsaturated (monounsaturated and polyunsaturated) fat intake. Replacing saturated fats with unsaturated fats can help reduce LDL, or bad cholesterol levels.

Dietary fat helps the body absorb vitamins A, D, E, and K. These vitamins are fat soluble, which means they can only be absorbed by the body with the help of fats. Per one-third of a medium avocado (50 grams), avocados contribute 6 grams of unsaturated fats, which are known to be essential for normal growth and development of the central nervous system and brain.

Make good fats a part of your next trip to the grocery store with this avocado-inspired Harvest Bowl Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette certified by the American Heart Association.

To find more nutritional facts and figures, along with recipes featuring the superfood, visit AvocadosFromMexico.com.

Harvest Bowl Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette

Servings: 8

Balsamic Vinaigrette:

• 1/2 Avocado From Mexico, diced
• 1 tablespoon avocado oil
• 2 tablespoons shallots, minced
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 3 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 3 tablespoons water

Salad:

• 2 Avocados From Mexico, diced
• 2 sweet potatoes, roasted and diced
• 2 cups quinoa, cooked
• 2 cups arugula
• 2 cups kale
• 1 cup Brussels sprouts petals, roasted
• 2 Honeycrisp apples, diced
• 2 tablespoons roasted pecans, unsalted
• 2 tablespoons roasted pepitas, unsalted
• 2 tablespoons dried cranberries

1. To make balsamic vinaigrette: In food processor, process avocado, avocado oil, shallots, Dijon mustard, balsamic vinegar, honey and water to smooth consistency. Set aside.
2. To make salad: In large bowl, combine avocados, sweet potatoes, quinoa, arugula, kale, Brussels sprouts petals, apples, pecans, pepitas and dried cranberries. Pour balsamic vinaigrette over salad mixture.
3. Toss salad to coat. Keep refrigerated until ready to serve.

Nutritional information per serving: 390 calories; 16 g total fat; 0 g saturated fat; 0 g cholesterol; 370 mg sodium; 55 g total carbohydrates; 11 g dietary fiber; 12 g sugar; 15 g protein.

 

SOURCE:
Avocados From Mexico

10 Affordable Ideas to Boost Curb Appeal

Your home’s first big impression is its curb appeal, so if your place is in need of some sprucing up, you may wonder how you can make some updates without breaking the bank.

These 10 ideas are easy on budgets, but they can also make a big impact on your home’s exterior image.

1. Paint your front door. As long as your front door is in good condition, there’s no need to replace it completely. A fresh coat of paint can instantly update your home’s facade. Go bold or stick with a classic hue – it’s all up to you.
2. Dress up the windows. Add character and charm by enhancing your front windows. You might add wooden shutters, window box planters or both. Also look at the trim around the windows. If it’s chipped and peeling, adding a fresh coat of paint doesn’t just look nice, it can protect your windows from damage, too.
3. Clean up flower beds. An unkempt flower bed can drag down an otherwise stunning home. Keep beds tidy and vegetation trimmed, even during the offseason. Watch for weeds and replenish mulch or rock ground cover as needed to keep the beds looking healthy and inviting.
4. Install new lighting. Replacing outdated light fixtures can give your exterior an instant upgrade. There’s no right or wrong style; just choose a color and look that matches the rest of your design.
5. Replace worn welcome mats. A cheerful mat at your front door can be an inviting sight for visitors, but those mats inevitably wear with time, and what was once bright and charming becomes dingy and dull. A new mat can help bring back that cheery entry you once cherished.
6. Pressure wash the drive and walk. Over time, driveways and sidewalks collect an incredible amount of grime. Pressure washing not only eliminates the filth, but the clean surfaces also add to your home’s visual appeal.
7. Add new vegetation. Landscaping is a relatively inexpensive way to introduce more personality to a yard. Aim for a mix of pretty and practical, such as some low flowering bushes and some trees or bushes that offer privacy and shade.
8. Keep up with basic maintenance. When your home is in poor repair, it shows. Pay attention to bent or rusting gutters, imperfections in the roof and other maintenance matters that aren’t just aesthetic; left unrepaired, they can also result in major damage.
9. Pay attention to details. Functional items like the mailbox might not seem like much of a design element, but these small details can be a big distraction if they’re not in good condition. Update or replace as needed to keep your aesthetic in sync.
10. Add seasonal decor. There’s no need to go all out for every occasion, but some timely decorations that celebrate the holiday or season can make your entry fun and festive. Coordinate wreaths, planters, signs and other accent pieces for a cohesive look that says, “come on in.”

Find more affordable ideas for upgrading your home and garden at eLivingtoday.com.

 

Photo courtesy of Unsplash

SOURCE:
Family Features

Finding joy in the darkness: A teenage cancer patient's story of hope, family and an amazing trip

Emma Frommeyer is a typical teenager in so many ways. She loves music, makeup and hanging out with friends. She's also an incredibly smart honor roll student, however, there is one thing that sets her apart from most teenagers ... Emma has a brain tumor and is fighting for her life. "She called me one day to come get her from school, which is not her," said Emma's mother, Dacia Wood. "Three hours later doctors told us she had a tumor. Tears were running down my face, but she laughed and said, 'I knew it.'" Nine days after her 13th birthday, Emma was diagnosed with a very aggressive form of brain cancer (group 3 medulloblastoma). Since then, her life has revolved around hospitals, going through radiation, and a lot of therapy, but Emma has faced these challenges with grace and joy. She had successful surgery to resect the tumor, then went to inpatient rehab to build her strength and endurance. She is currently going through a year of IV chemotherapy. "We always say that I was probably the best one (in her family) to get cancer," said Emma. "I made it good. The only time it was sad was when I would get emotional or upset about it. Other than that, it was a fun time. It's brought me closer to my family, especially my mom and my aunt. We're always together and we laugh a lot." If ever there was proof of every storm cloud having a silver lining, Emma's fight is it. She has spent these last few years battling through adversity, all the while remaining positive and optimistic. And this has allowed her to build an unbreakable connection with her mother. The time spent traveling to and from the hospital for treatment provided opportunities for the two of them to talk, laugh and sometimes cry. These regular trips, however, came with a financial cost as gas prices hit record highs. This is where the Bear Fund became an invaluable part of team Emma. "It was 50 miles one way, back and forth each time, and she had 30 visits," said Wood. "That's 100 miles. And gas, of course, is expensive. The Bear Fund stepped in by providing gas cards, which was a huge help. We wanted to focus on Emma's treatment, so not having to worry about gas to get her to her appointments was a big deal for us." The Bear Fund was founded by Heather and Nick Baker after their youngest child, Barrett ("Bear"), was diagnosed with a rare liver cancer. During that time, the couple saw first-hand the economic challenges some families on the hospital floors were facing. They decided they wanted to help, so they established The Bear Fund, in partnership with the Cancer Support Community, to provide financial support and navigation services to families with children diagnosed with cancer. "We walked by rooms to see children having to go through treatment or recover from surgery alone, and we realized there's got to be something we can do to help," said Heather Baker. "Parents shouldn't have to worry about missing work, or the cost to find childcare for their other children, so they can be with their kids during treatment. We wanted to do what we could with the help of amazing donors to make this tough journey just a little bit easier." Among the Bear Fund's many partners is California-based Mercury Insurance, and their philanthropic initiative, Mercury Cares. The company was introduced to Emma and her incredible story through the Bear Fund and the Cancer Support Community and decided to give Emma an experience to remember. "Mercury Cares partners with like-minded organizations that are committed to providing valuable services to the customers and communities we help protect," said Erik Thompson, Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer at Mercury Insurance. "We were struck by Emma's courage and the unwavering support she received from her family, so we wanted to give them something so they could step away from being Emma the cancer patient. We wanted her to enjoy an experience as Emma, the 13-year-old girl who loves her family." Since her diagnosis, Emma hasn't had the opportunity to do the things many 13-year-olds are able to do. To remedy that, Mercury Cares gifted Emma and her family the trip of a lifetime, sending the entire family to Southern California, away from hospitals and treatments, so they could spend time together creating memories. "Mercury showed how much they care when they gifted a dream trip to Los Angeles so Emma could see one of her favorite music artists and enjoy some beach time with her family," said Tara Conner, Emma's aunt. "She'd never seen the ocean, and we are so thankful for the joy that it's brought." Emma's story is captured in a series of videos, allowing everyone to get to know this amazing young woman and watch her journey, as she shares her story to inspire and empower others. "I always wanted to have a close relationship with my family, so when I finally got that, I was really happy," said Emma.

A Hoppy Easter Cake

(Culinary.net) Warmer days at the start of spring mean Easter is almost here, and the big bunny himself will be hopping around in no time delivering goodies.

This Easter, celebrate with your loved ones with a delicious and colorful Easter Bunny Butt Cake. It can bring smiles and laughter while putting everyone in a light, joyful mood.

This cake is fun and bright with a fluffy, moist interior. Complete with chocolate candy eggs, shredded coconut and chocolate chips for little bunny toes, this recipe goes all out to paint a picture of the Easter bunny.

Start by combining whole eggs, egg whites, cream of coconut, crushed pineapple, coconut extract and vanilla extract.

In a food processor, pulse flour, sugar, baking powder and salt. Then add butter gradually, 6 tablespoons at a time, for a total of 12 tablespoons.

Add dry mixture to a mixing bowl then add egg mixture half at a time. Beat until cake batter is formed.

Fill muffin tins 2/3 full and bake 18-20 minutes. The remaining batter goes into an oven-safe bowl to bake for 1 hour, 40 minutes.

The buttercream frosting is made with powdered sugar, butter, milk, vanilla extract and coconut extract.

Assemble the cake using pretzel sticks to blend it together to make the bunny butt shape. Frost the cake and spread shredded coconut over it to create a textured appearance. Stick chocolate chips on the bunny’s feet to create toes. Place your favorite Easter or bunny candies around the cake for extra garnish.

This cake is worth every step. It’s delicious and as cute as can be, plus it’s perfect for dessert after a big Easter dinner.

Find more creative and scrumptious holiday recipes at Culinary.net.

Watch video to see how to make this recipe!

Easter Bunny Butt Cake

Servings: 10-12

•             Nonstick cooking spray
• 2          eggs, plus 4 egg whites, at room temperature
• 3/4       cup cream of coconut
• 1/2       cup crushed pineapple, drained
• 2          teaspoons coconut extract
• 1          teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 1/4    cups flour
• 1          cup sugar
• 2          teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2       teaspoon salt
• 12        tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature

Buttercream Frosting:

• 3          cups powdered sugar
• 2          sticks unsalted butter, softened
• 3          tablespoons milk
• 1          teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2       teaspoon coconut extract

• 4          thin pretzel sticks
• 1          bag (10 ounces) sweetened shredded coconut
• 8          drops green food coloring
• 2          large round chocolate candy melts
• 6          chocolate chips
• mini candy-coated chocolate eggs, for garnish

1. Heat oven to 325 F.
2. Line muffin pan with four paper liners. Spray oven-safe glass bowl with nonstick cooking spray.
3. In large bowl, whisk eggs, egg whites, cream of coconut, pineapple, coconut extract and vanilla extract until combined.
4. In food processor, pulse flour, sugar, baking powder and salt until combined. Add 6 tablespoons butter. Pulse until combined. Add remaining butter. Pulse until coarse meal forms.
5. In large mixing bowl, add coarse flour butter meal. Add half of egg mixture. Beat 1-2 minutes. Add remaining egg mixture; beat until combined.
6. Fill each muffin cup 2/3 full. Bake 18-20 minutes, or until done. Cool completely.
7. Pour remaining batter into prepared oven-safe bowl. Bake 1 hour, 40 minutes, or until done. Cool completely.
8. To make buttercream frosting: In large bowl, add powdered sugar and butter; beat until fluffy. Add milk, vanilla extract and coconut extract; beat until creamy.
9. Turn bowl upside-down on cake stand until cake removes from bowl. If cake needs leveled, turn cake over and trim to flatten. Frost cake.
10. Remove wrappers from cupcakes. Using two pretzel sticks, press into base of cupcakes
11. and anchor to bottom rim of bowl cake to create bunny feet. Frost feet.
12. Take third cupcake and cut muffin top off. Cut muffin top in half. Using one pretzel stick, anchor one muffin top half at bottom of full cupcake to form toes. Repeat with second muffin top half for other foot. Frost toes.
13. Attach final cupcake with remaining pretzel stick to butt area of cake to make tail. Frost tail.
14. Apply 1 1/2 cups shredded coconut all over cake. Press chocolate candy melts into bottoms of bunny feet to resemble foot pads. Add chocolate chips to resemble pads for toes.
15. Place remaining coconut in plastic bag. Add green food coloring. Toss in bag until coconut is colored. Spread around base of cake for grass. Decorate grass with chocolate eggs.

Tips: Spoon flour into dry measuring cup and level off excess. Scooping directly from bag compacts flour, resulting in dry baked goods. Add 1 tablespoon additional milk if frosting is too stiff. Keep adding until desired consistency.

SOURCE:
Culinary.net

What Women Need to Know About Stroke Risks

It may not be widely known that women face unique risk factors for stroke throughout their lifetime. Things like pregnancy, preeclampsia and chronic stress can increase the risk for high blood pressure, a leading cause of stroke.

Cardiovascular disease, including stroke, is the leading cause of death among women, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and 1 in 5 women will have a stroke. However, a large majority of strokes can be prevented.

Caring for yourself by understanding your risk factors can help reduce your risk for stroke and provide a better quality of life. Start managing your stroke risk with these tips from the American Stroke Association, a division of the American Heart Association:

Monitor Your Blood Pressure
The first step you can take in reducing your risk for stroke is knowing your blood pressure and keeping it in a healthy range. High blood pressure is the No. 1 preventable cause of stroke, according to the American Heart Association.

The best way to know your blood pressure is to have it measured at least once per year by a health care professional and regularly monitor it at home then discuss the numbers with a doctor. For most people, a normal blood pressure should be 120/80 mm HG or less.

In addition to properly monitoring blood pressure, maintaining a healthy weight, being physically active, eating healthfully and reducing or eliminating alcohol and tobacco usage can help control blood pressure. If you do develop high blood pressure, work with a health care professional on a plan to help manage it.

Plan for Pregnancy
In the United States, high blood pressure during pregnancy is becoming more common, according to the CDC, and medical conditions including preeclampsia, gestational diabetes and blood clots during pregnancy all increase stroke risk during and immediately following a pregnancy.

Managing conditions like high blood pressure before getting pregnant helps keep you and your baby healthy during pregnancy and beyond. In addition, your health during and immediately after a pregnancy can shape the lifelong health of you and your child. If you’re planning to become pregnant or are currently pregnant, it’s important to regularly monitor your blood pressure.

Take Care of Your Mental Health
Some stress is unavoidable but constant stress is not healthy. Chronic or constant stress may lead to high blood pressure and other unhealthy behavior choices, which can increase risk for stroke.

Based on findings in a Stress in America 2020 survey conducted by the American Psychological Association, the top sources of stress are money, work, family responsibilities and health concerns. Managing your stress and blood pressure can improve your overall health and well-being. Reclaim control of your schedule and build in time to invest in your health. Find 10 minutes every day to do something for you, like listening to music, meditating or going for a walk.

Learn the Warning Signs
A stroke can happen to anyone at any point in life. Immediate treatment may help minimize the long-term effects of a stroke and even prevent death. Learn how to spot a stroke F.A.S.T:

• Face drooping – Does one side of the face droop or is it numb? Ask the person to smile. Is the person’s smile uneven?
• Arm weakness – Is one arm weak or numb? Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?
• Speech difficulty – Is speech slurred? Is the person unable to speak or hard to understand? Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence like “The sky is blue.”
• Time to call 911 – If someone shows any of these symptoms, even if the symptoms go away, call 911 and get to a hospital immediately. Check the time so you’ll know when the first symptoms appeared.

Talk to your doctor about ways to improve your well-being and help prevent stroke. Find more wellness tips at stroke.org.

 

 

SOURCE:
American Stroke Association

5 pasos para controlar adecuadamente la presión arterial

Casi la mitad de los adultos estadounidenses tienen presión arterial alta o hipertensión, según los Centros para el Control y la Prevención de Enfermedades. De ellos, alrededor del 75% no lo tienen bajo control, y es posible que muchos ni siquiera se den cuenta de que lo tienen a menos que experimenten otras complicaciones.

De hecho, la hipertensión es una de las principales causas y un factor de riesgo controlable de enfermedades cardíacas y accidentes cerebrovasculares, así como de otros problemas, como insuficiencia renal, pérdida de la visión y problemas sexuales. Sin embargo, la Asociación Americana del Corazón recomienda seguir estos sencillos pasos para ayudar a controlar sus niveles y manejar los riesgos.

1. Conozca sus números

En la mayoría de los casos, la presión arterial normal es de 120/80 mm HG o menos. Las lecturas consistentemente superiores a 130/80 se consideran presión arterial alta. Pida a un profesional de la salud que le mida la presión arterial al menos una vez al año y contrólela regularmente en su casa con un monitor validado y luego discuta las lecturas con su médico. Obtener lecturas precisas puede ayudar a garantizar el tratamiento más adecuado en caso de que surja algún problema.

2. Mantenga un peso saludable

Si tiene sobrepeso u obesidad, tiene un mayor riesgo de hipertensión. Perder solo el 3-5% de su peso corporal puede ayudar a mejorar sus números. Hay una gran cantidad de planes y programas disponibles que pueden ayudar con la pérdida de peso, y tomar medidas positivas con un amigo o familiar puede ayudar con la motivación.

3. Manténgase activo

Para maximizar los beneficios para la salud y ayudar a mantener la presión arterial en el rango normal, la Asociación Americana del Corazón recomienda que los adultos realicen al menos 150 minutos por semana de actividad moderada, 75 minutos de actividad intensa o una combinación de ambas. Pruebe actividades como caminar a paso ligero, nadar, montar en bicicleta o bailar. Por ejemplo, la campaña Get Down with Your Blood Pressure usa música y baile para ayudar a recordar los cuatro sencillos pasos para autocontrolarse la presión arterial:

• Tómelo: tome su dispositivo de autocontrol de la presión arterial (SMBP, por sus siglas en inglés)
• Deslícelo: deslice el brazalete SMBP hacia arriba de su brazo
• Envuélvalo: envuelva el brazalete cómodamente, pero no demasiado apretado
• Compruébelo: compruebe su presión arterial en el dispositivo

4. Aliméntese bien

Hacer cambios pequeños y simples en sus hábitos alimenticios puede ser de gran ayuda para que usted y su familia se mantengan saludables. Comer frutas y verduras, como mangos, aguacates y arándanos, puede reducir la presión arterial con el tiempo. Otras opciones inteligentes incluyen frutos secos y semillas, cereales integrales, proteínas magras y pescado.

5. Disminuya el consumo de alcohol y tabaco

Fumar agrava los factores de riesgo de las enfermedades cardíacas, como la presión arterial alta y la diabetes, y las sustancias químicas del humo del tabaco pueden dañar el corazón y los vasos sanguíneos. Asimismo, el consumo excesivo de alcohol (más de dos copas al día) se asocia con la hipertensión arterial. Limitar el consumo de alcohol y dejar de fumar, o evitar el humo de segunda mano, puede ayudar a reducir el riesgo.

Si desarrolla hipertensión, trabaje con un profesional de la salud para controlarla y visite heart.org/hbpcontrol para encontrar recursos locales para la presión arterial, videos de autocontrol paso a paso y más.

 

Control de su presión arterial en el hogar

Es importante saber cómo controlar correctamente su presión arterial, especialmente si su médico recomienda un autocontrol regular en casa.

• Quédese quieto. No fume, tome cafeína ni haga ejercicio durante los 30 minutos antes de medir su presión arterial. Vacíe su vejiga y tómese al menos 5 minutos de descanso tranquilo antes de medir.
• Siéntese correctamente. Siéntese con la espalda recta y apoyada. Mantenga los pies apoyados en el suelo y las piernas sin cruzar. Apoye su brazo sobre una superficie plana, como una mesa, con su bíceps al nivel del corazón. Coloque la parte inferior del brazalete directamente sobre el pliegue de su codo. Nunca tome medidas sobre las mangas u otra ropa.
• Mida a la misma hora todos los días. Para una mayor consistencia, tome lecturas a la misma hora todos los días, por ejemplo, a una hora determinada por la mañana y por la noche.
• Tome varias lecturas y registre los resultados. Cada vez que mida, tome 2-3 lecturas con aproximadamente 1 minuto de diferencia y registre los resultados para compartirlos con su médico.

Este proyecto cuenta con el apoyo de acuerdos cooperativos (CPIMP211227 y CPIMP211228) con la Oficina de Salud de las Minorías (OMH) del Departamento de Salud y Servicios Humanos (HHS) de EE. UU., como parte de una asignación de asistencia financiera por un total de $14.6 millones de dólares en colaboración con la Administración de Recursos y Servicios de Salud (HRSA). El contenido no necesariamente representa las opiniones oficiales de la OMH, la OASH, el HHS ni del Gobierno de EE. UU., ni estos organismos respaldan dicho contenido. Para obtener mayor información, visita https://www.minorityhealth.hhs.gov/.

 

SOURCE:
American Heart Association
 

Fun Easter 'Egg-turnatives'

4 creative alternatives to decorating eggs this Easter

While decorating eggs for Easter is a tradition that dates back centuries, the high cost of eggs may make it more difficult for some families this year. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t find creative ways to keep the season special and create memories with loved ones.

With more than 140 years of experience, the Easter egg decorating experts at PAAS® are sharing some ideas and inspiration on fun things to do with your Easter decorating kit. These “egg-citing” alternatives to using traditional eggs can help keep those simple moments of connection and creativity alive:

Pretty in Plastic
Dyeing plastic eggs is an activity perfect for all ages with less stress and less mess since they don’t crack or break when dropped. Dyeable plastic eggs also typically come in packages of more than a traditional dozen, offering more opportunities for creativity. Another added bonus: You can decorate your home every year with the finished product since they don’t go bad. They are also perfect for DIY projects, such as making them into garland, hanging ornaments, place settings or gifts that can be used for years to come.

Baked Easter Decor
Instead of buying eggs, you can make your own baking soda dough eggs using 1/2 cup corn starch, 1 cup baking soda and 3/4 cup water. Combine the ingredients, roll into egg shapes and bake in the oven for 1 hour at 175 F then simply dye them as you would real eggs using your favorite PAAS egg decorating kit. Fun for all ages, these eggs can be turned into a variety of decor and mementos with kids taking the lead on mixing the dough batter and shaping the eggs before an adult helps with the baking.

Creative Kitchen Canvases
Coffee filters are good for more than just making coffee; they make perfect canvases for Easter decorating and naturally take dye. With 100-250 coffee filters per package, they’re a cost-effective way to maximize crafting opportunities and let creativity run wild. Once dyed and dried, you can turn the filters into flower centerpieces, papier mache eggs, artwork to frame and more.

Repurposed Treasure from Nature
Kids often love to hunt for fun-shaped and colorful rocks when exploring outdoors or collect seashells while on vacation or taking a walk on the beach. Now, rather than storing them in a “treasure box” or throwing them back outside, they can be creatively decorated for Easter using paint, stickers, glitter, accessories and other add-ons. Some seashells can even be dyed. Using rocks and shells of all shapes and sizes is a cost-effective, low-waste alternative that allows children to use their imaginations for creative play once they’re done decorating.

For more tips and ideas to make Easter “eggstra” special this year, visit paaseastereggs.com.

Sustainable Tips to Avoid Egg Waste

If you plan to keep the tradition of dyeing eggs alive this year, you can take steps to avoid food waste once you’re done decorating. Consider these sustainable tips from the experts at PAAS:

• Make Deviled Eggs: As long as you refrigerate the eggs shortly after dyeing them, you can use them to make deviled eggs – an Easter brunch staple – for your family meal.
• Create Centerpieces: Dyed eggs can be used to make a beautiful centerpiece for your family dinner. Simply spread them over your table runner around other decor, fill a glass bowl or jar with the eggs or place them within a floral arrangement to add pops of color to the table.
• Serve a Salad: Eating the eggs saves you from food waste, and eggs can be used in a variety of salads, including egg salad, potato salad or chef’s salad, to add a boost of protein and flavor.
• Start a Compost Pile: If you don’t plan to eat the eggs once you’re done decorating, you can create a compost pile near your garden. Hard-boiled eggshells are a rich source of calcium and other essential nutrients plants need.

 

 

SOURCE:
PAAS

Plant-Forward Picnic Recipes Perfect for Spring

Between the welcome warmth of the sun’s rays and a nearly universal desire to get outdoors, springtime is a beloved season for enjoying an al fresco meal. Add in fresh produce to heighten the flavors of family favorites and the table is set for a delicious picnic.

Whether your warm-weather adventures take you to a nearby park, a neighbor’s patio or simply your own backyard, satisfying those spring cravings often starts with plant-forward dishes. From tomatoes and onions to mushrooms, Brussels sprouts and other fruits and veggies, you can rely on Mother Nature to give picnic recipes a boost.

For example, these fresh ideas from Aramark’s Feed Your Potential program offer easy solutions to take your loved ones outdoors for a meal all can enjoy. As a popular springtime lunch, sandwiches provide the opportunity to customize servings according to each person’s preferences.

These Portobello Mozzarella Sandwiches are a plant-forward version loaded with grilled mushrooms, fresh mozzarella, pesto mayo, arugula and a balsamic glaze on ciabatta rolls. For an added touch of freshness, a homemade tomato bruschetta topping combines tomatoes, red onions, basil and more to capitalize on a peak produce season.

No picnic is complete without a side that perfectly complements the main course. For a delicious solution that’s fast and easy to make, try a new twist on an al fresco classic: coleslaw. A healthy accompaniment to the sandwiches, this Apricot Brussels Sprouts Coleslaw is an ideal spring dish that calls for less than 10 ingredients and requires simple prep so you can make it fresh before heading out the door.

Visit Aramark’s Feed Your Potential website, fyp365.com, to find more picnic-worthy recipe ideas.

Portobello Mozzarella Sandwiches

Recipe courtesy of Aramark
Servings: 4

Tomato Bruschetta Topping:

• 1/4 pound fresh plum tomatoes, cored and diced
• 2 tablespoons red onion, peeled and minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 pinch ground black pepper
• 1 pinch fresh garlic, peeled and finely minced

Sandwiches:

• 1 pound fresh portobello mushrooms, cleaned, stems removed, sliced thin
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 1/2 tablespoons prepared basil pesto
• 4 ciabatta rolls (4-by-4 inches), split in half
• 4 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced small
• 4 ounces tomato bruschetta topping
• 2 ounces fresh baby arugula
• 1/4 cup balsamic glaze

1. To make tomato bruschetta topping: In bowl, combine tomatoes, onion, basil, olive oil, salt, pepper and garlic. Set aside.
2. To make sandwiches: Preheat grill pan or grill to medium heat.
3. Toss sliced mushrooms with olive oil, garlic powder, salt and pepper.
4. Grill mushrooms until fork-tender, 3-4 minutes on each side. Let cool.
5. Mix mayonnaise with pesto until combined. Spread 2 tablespoons pesto mayonnaise on cut sides of each roll.
6. For each sandwich, layer 1/4 of grilled mushrooms, mozzarella slices, tomato bruschetta topping, arugula and balsamic glaze.
7. Top with other roll halves. Cut diagonally in half to serve.

Apricot Brussels Sprouts Coleslaw

Recipe courtesy of Aramark
Servings: 4

• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 cups trimmed and shredded Brussels sprouts
• 1 cup dried apricot, diced
• 1 cup red onion, trimmed and diced

1. Combine mustard, honey, sugar, salt and pepper. Mix well.
2. Add Brussels sprouts, apricot and onion; toss to coat.

 

SOURCE:
Aramark

Investing in early childhood educators made it possible for teachers to achieve their dreams

Early childhood teachers and those who dedicate their careers to the first years of childhood - the time in life with the most brain development - have been lauded as essential, even heroes since the pandemic. Teachers are not just important in the eyes of children, but also for the families who depend on them to provide a safe and nurturing environment for their children while they work. Recognizing the ongoing need to care for teachers and caregivers, Bright Horizons, one of the world's largest providers of high-quality child care, continues to support these educators with vital benefits and resources to help them grow professionally. As part of its commitment to professionalizing the field of early childhood education, Bright Horizons is making a substantial investment to increase wages for both teachers and those in leadership within its child care centers. In addition, Bright Horizons offers all of its teachers the opportunity to earn early education degrees absolutely free. The Horizons Teacher Degree Program is a first-of-its-kind program that allows all full-time employees in Bright Horizons' early education and child care centers to earn an associate and bachelor's degree in early childhood education at no cost to them, covering all out-of-pocket expenses, including tuition, fees and books. Teacher Stories Seattle Carol White has been with Bright Horizons Childcare Center in Bellevue, Washington, for 23 years. She began as a KinderPrep Teacher, then Program Coordinator, Assistant Director and has served as the Center Director for the past eight years. "I had wanted to get a degree since I graduated high school," said White. "Bright Horizons made it so easy. I didn't have to worry about coming up with the money to be paid back for my classes. I earned my degree through Rasmussen University and am using the same university for my BA. For me, getting my degree has been validating." Meanwhile, Diane Orr, a teacher at the Kadlec Childcare Center in Richmond, Washington, decided to participate because the program was free, online and offered multiple schools to choose from. "It is amazing to work for a company that cares enough for their employees to invest in their education," said Orr. "My education has helped my confidence as a teacher and a leader. This past year I moved up to the position of lead educator at my center. I am proud of my accomplishments and hope that I can inspire others to keep going. My degree has helped me excel at my job and find new joy in my work." Teacher Story Boston Tina Dolson, the Health and Safety Director at Bright Horizons at University Park in Cambridge, Massachusetts, has always wanted to work with children. She has worked in the Infant and Toddler programs and as a mentor for new employees. "I am the first in my family to get a bachelor's degree and was able to do so with the help of the degree program," said Dolson. Teacher Story Chicago Mayra Pena has had a number of roles within early childhood education. She is currently a Bright Horizons Lead Educator for the kindergarten prep program at Early Discoveries in Abbott Park, Illinois. "I decided to participate in the Horizons Teacher Degree program because I thought it was an excellent opportunity to finally complete a goal I had for many years," said Pena. "I know my parents would be incredibly proud. Their hard work and struggles have motivated me to keep moving toward my goal." Mayra is working toward her associate's degree in Early Childhood Education from Rasmussen University and plans to graduate in June 2023. Learn more about the Horizons Teacher Degree Program at https://careers.brighthorizons.com/us/en/horizons-teacher-degree-program.

4 top home tech trends and innovations from CES 2023

If you love being up to date on the latest home innovations, you can't do better than the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) each January. Viewing the highlights from CES lets you explore the newest technology to entertain you and your family or make household chores that much easier. For tech-savvy consumers and anyone seeking great new solutions in home technology, this year's offerings do not disappoint. Here are four outstanding innovations from LG Electronics featured at CES 2023 that can enhance your home. Be ahead of the curve If you've never watched movies or played your favorite video games on a curved TV screen, this belongs on your list for 2023. With the new LG OLED Flex, you get the perfect combination for gaming, productivity and TV viewing - that can switch from a flat to a curved screen at the push of a button. Viewing and gaming on a curved screen offers a more immersive experience, providing more depth and sharper visual contrast. You can sit back and enjoy 4K UHD video content through webOS, streaming services and TV Tuner, or lean into an epic video game with built-in streaming game services. This TV is also tilt and height adjustable, so you can set up the most comfortable space to enjoy your favorite content. Whether flat or curved, this TV's built-in evo technology delivers the same exceptional picture quality and performance that have made LG OLED TVs so popular. Get your serious game face on For the ultimate gaming monitor, the new LG UltraGear™ Monitor is the world's first OLED 240Hz gaming display. Available in 27- and 45-inches, its ultrawide screen provides a rapid 0.1 millisecond Gray-to-Gray (GTG) response time, while the innovative OLED display provides outstanding picture quality and high contrast ratio to help gamers easily detect enemies in any gaming environment, even in the darkest scenes. The anti-glare coating minimizes screen reflections in dark environments, while its curvature maximizes immersion. The V-shape stand offers tilt, height and swivel adjustment to allow gamers to enjoy the large screen just as they want it. This UltraGear monitor's large screen, high refresh rate and fast response time make it the perfect solution for gamers looking to experience next-generation games with cutting-edge equipment. Indulge your shoe obsession If you love shoes but are guilty of leaving them in boxes in your closet, here's your opportunity to show your shoes some love. The new LG Styler® ShoeTower combines LG Styler ShoeCare and ShoeCase, creating a smart, convenient dual shoe care and storage solution to clean and display your favorite footwear. ShoeCare meticulously sterilizes and deodorizes the interior and exterior of any shoe using LG's unmatched steam technology. It features an intuitive 2.4-inch touch LCD display, allowing you to select cleaning mode, operation process and more. The Styler ShoeCase is a welcome addition to any home with its modern, streamlined design. This new storage concept features a technologically enhanced design ensuring the optimum humidity and temperature to keep your footwear looking its best. With a modular design that can be configured in various forms and transparent panels for easy viewing, Styler ShoeCase is a space-friendly solution for storing and showcasing your footwear. Through LG's ThinQ app, the dual ShoeTower system can be controlled remotely via your smartphone, making it a truly innovative must-have, whether you're a shoe lover or just need a shoe maintenance solution for the whole family. Reimagining laundry For those seeking practical solutions to the problems presented by laundry appliances, especially in limited spaces, the LG's newest LG WashTower™ model is the answer. Offering a full-size dryer above a full-size front-load washer, these machines provide increased capacity while lowering the height compared to existing 24-inch stacked washing machines and dryers - so you can clean more without sacrificing space. Unlike conventional stacked laundry pairs, LG's exclusive Center Control™ panel is positioned in the middle of the unit, providing easier access to all functions to optimize your laundry experience. The washer's AI DD™M Technology provides optimal washing performance by detecting load size, fabric softness and soil level of clothes, adjusting the proper detergent amount based on soil level, and even reduces fabric damage by 10% when washing delicate items. Even better: Vent installation is not required in the dryer, allowing for even more flexibility. Thanks to LG's Dual Inverter Heat Pump system, the dryer uses up to 50% less energy than other models and drying at lower temperatures to better protect your clothing. The unit is also compatible with LG's ThinQ Care service, helping ensure optimal performance by providing usage alerts and maintenance tips LG's ThinQ app. Starting in March 2023, the unit will also be compatible with LG ThinQ UP, which provides regular downloadable updates to give users a personalized experience. Explore these and other great innovations for your home at LG.com

We Are ALL Hybrids

These days, we often associate the word hybrid with a vehicle that runs on both a gas engine and an electric motor, but did you know we are all hybrids as well? Allow me to explain. The word hybrid can also be utilized to describe each one of us because, we are all hybrids in one form or another. Whether you're a science teacher and a ballet dancer, or a firefighter and a podcaster, being a hybrid means you celebrate the fact that we all have more than one characteristic and more than one skill or talent that can help us go the distance! Being a hybrid has multiple benefits As hybrids, we are all equipped with various talents and strengths. For example, a science teacher can excel both at school and on stage as a ballet dancer. As hybrids we embrace our strengths to explore and pursue our interests. When we tap into our hybrid nature, we don't fit into one box and can gain a broad knowledge that helps us be more innovative and solve problems differently. In the automotive industry, hybrids are more than just vehicles that run on a gas engine and electric motor, they're also vehicles equipped with a variety of features and options. Hybrids, like the Toyota Camry Hybrid and RAV4 Hybrid, are built to make the transition into electrification simple and seamless for all drivers, and with their countless options, there's a hybrid for everyone. "As hybrids, one of our greatest gifts is recognizing we all have incredible skills and talents," said Katya Echazarreta, who is collaborating with Toyota and SiriusXM on the We Are ALL Hybrids campaign. "How we use these talents is what makes us unique. As an electrical engineer and a citizen astronaut, I'm very passionate about promoting STEM education, so that others have the chance for future opportunities. That's why I've chosen to work with Toyota and SiriusXM to help celebrate the hybrid spirit in all of us." Living the best of both worlds with a hybrid Just like everyday hybrids, this year's lineup of Toyota Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEV) displays an impressive list of hybrid qualities. Powerful, efficient, and head turning style, that's Camry Hybrid. Offering the best of both worlds, the stylish Camry Hybrid combines 208 total system hp and impressive fuel efficiency with an up-to EPA-estimated 52 mpg combined rating. Add in advanced tech and a drive that makes you want to keep on going, there is a Camry Hybrid for everyone including the new SE Hybrid Nightshade with accents made for a second look. There's also the RAV4 Hybrid, designed for drivers looking for capable performance and bold style. The RAV4 Hybrid has 219 combined net horsepower thanks to the 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine assisted by electric motors. The RAV4 Hybrid's standard All-Wheel Drive (AWD) also provides all-weather capability and confident on-road driving dynamics. Whether you enjoy a nice night on the town or a long drive across the country, with a Toyota Hybrid you have the best of both worlds without having to compromise on performance or style. Hybrid listening on-the-go This year, Toyota and SiriusXM® are coming together to launch "We Are ALL Hybrids," a campaign that celebrates everyone and features the 2023 Camry Hybrid and 2023 RAV4 Hybrid. Every new Toyota comes with a three-month trial subscription to the SiriusXM Platinum Plan, which delivers SiriusXM's full lineup of exclusive and curated content, plus access to SiriusXM outside the vehicle on the SXM App and on connected devices and speakers. Now that you've learned we're all hybrids, visit www.Toyota.com/WeAreAllHybrids to learn more about Katya Echazarreta and other hybrids!

5 tips for parents to encourage a lasting love of reading

Reading opens the door to a lifelong love of learning, imagination and adventure. When parents instill a love of reading in their children from an early age, it increases their oral language skills and vocabulary knowledge, which helps to build a solid foundation for later reading ability. According to the National Assessment of Educational Progress' recent 2022 Nation's Report Card, reading scores for students across the country are down following years of disrupted learning during the pandemic. Research indicates early literacy skills in the critical years from birth to age five are predictive of a child's literacy skills through fifth grade and beyond. Focusing on literacy during early childhood can help provide children with the skills needed to be a successful reader throughout their life. In addition, focusing on key early literacy skills during the preschool years can help parents and teachers identify potential indicators of learning challenges so early intervention can be provided. Beyond developing early language and literacy skills, reading may also increase a child's ability to understand the emotions of others - a critical life skill that leads to empathy and compassion. Dr. Maria Shaheen, senior director of early childhood education at Primrose Schools®, The Leader in Early Education and Care®, provides five tips to help parents encourage a lasting love of reading in their children during National Reading Month and all year long: 1) Introduce language as early as possible - even before birth. Oral language is the foundation of all other early literacy skills and helps build a child's vocabulary. Speaking and reading to your baby during pregnancy establishes voice recognition and promotes cognitive development. The more words parents introduce their child to, the better. Parents should talk about the meanings of words and use them in everyday conversation to ensure children understand them. 2) Make reading a regular part of bedtime routine. Reading books should be a favorite bedtime activity. With daily "tuck-in" stories and snuggling together at bedtime, infants and young children begin to associate reading with comfort, warmth and security. During the first year of life, sturdy board books with bright illustrations are easiest to handle and invite participation. Books with familiar subjects, such as babies and animals, resonate since babies respond to faces and eyes before other stimuli. 3) Offer a wide variety of stories. This can include nursery rhymes, poetry, nonfiction and fiction from many genres, as well as books that celebrate a wide range of cultures and diverse characters. Parents can ask lots of questions, act silly and try out different character voices to make reading dramatic and engaging. Vivid illustrations, along with rhyming and repetitive text, will encourage lively dialogue. 4) Help children discover the magic of books for themselves. Books can help young children understand their own feelings when characters face similar life events, so parents should pick topics their children may be curious about. In the first five years of life, children form their self-identity, which makes it important that they see themselves reflected in the world around them, including the books at home and in their classrooms. One example found in Primrose classrooms is, "I'm Like You, You're Like Me: A Book About Understanding and Appreciating Each Other" by Cindy Gainer. 5) Make reading a fun learning experience. Parents can reinforce stories through related activities. Preschool children can create books with their own stories about things they do with their families. Parents can encourage their children to write a card to a family member or special friend and have them read it aloud. Many children memorize their favorite texts and pretend to read, which is a wonderful sign that they are identifying their favorite books and building confidence. Parents can also play silly word games that help children play with sounds, such as rhyming games or tongue twisters. "Reading now pays dividends later. Starting a reading routine throughout daily life models for children the importance of reading as a way to gain information and valuable life skills, complete everyday activities, explore new worlds, encourage imagination and have fun," Dr. Shaheen says. To learn more about how parents can nurture a love of reading for their children, visit PrimroseSchools.com.

Taking a holiday vacation with your pet? 4 tips from a veterinarian for keeping them safe during travel

Are you planning to take your pet with you on your holiday travels? You're not alone. According to Lodging Magazine, 54% of pet owners planned to travel with their pets in 2022. Holiday trips and get-togethers can be fun for the whole family but it's important to prepare the four-legged members of the family - whether you are bringing them along on vacation or leaving them with a pet sitter or boarding facility. Be sure your packing list includes prescription medications, toys, leashes, collars, treats and other supplies to keep your pet happy no matter where you travel. Also, check out these tips to keep your furry friend safe and healthy during your vacation - near or far. "Traveling with pets can create many fun memories but it does require a lot of prep work to keep them safe, healthy and comfortable throughout the trip," said Dr. Christine Royal, vice president of the U.S. Companion Animal and Equine business at Merck Animal Health. "I'd encourage pet owners to talk to their veterinarian about travel preparation specific to their pets and their vacation destination." 1. Remember to use a flea and tick preventative Preventive care is an important topic to discuss with your veterinary health care team, particularly if you're bringing your pet into new environments where they could be exposed to different critters. Flea and tick preventatives are especially important if you're traveling with your dog or cat this holiday season. Parasites like fleas and ticks are often associated with warmer climates, but certain species can be active in temperatures as cold as 39 degrees Fahrenheit. No matter where you live or travel with your pet, it's crucial to treat them for parasites year-round, ideally with a long-lasting product such as Bravecto® (fluralaner) Chews or Bravecto® (fluralaner topical solution) treatment. This flea and tick preventive treatment protects your dog for 12 weeks with one dose. Remember, it's important to keep a record of when your pet received the most recent treatment. 2. Check the chip Before you hit the road together, check to make sure your pet's microchip is registered in a national pet recovery service like the HomeAgain® database and that your contact information is up to date. If your dog or cat is lost while away from home, a shelter or veterinary clinic can find your information and reunite you with your furry friend via their microchip registration. HomeAgain Premium members receive free access to a 24/7 medical hotline in case of a health emergency. Should a member's pet be lost and found 500 miles or more from home, the HomeAgain travel assistance program will help with expenses and travel logistics to reunite the lost pet and owner. The HomeAgain pet recovery service has reunited more than 3 million lost pets in the U.S. with their families. 3. Protect your pet against diseases Whether you plan to socialize your pet with other animals while on vacation or board them while you're out of town, you'll want to protect them against common canine diseases. Social dogs that spend a lot of time in places like dog parks, doggie daycares or training camps are at a higher risk for infectious respiratory diseases. To keep your four-legged family member healthy during your travels, it's important to have all their required vaccinations up to date. Talk to your vet about preventive vaccines recommended for active or social pets. They may recommend the Nobivac® Intra-Trac® Oral BbPi vaccine, a new and innovative option that protects dogs against two major respiratory pathogens with a simple oral application. Be sure to have a copy of your vaccination records for travel or boarding. "Respiratory pathogens, such as Bordetella and parainfluenza virus, can spread quickly among social dogs, which is why prevention is critical. Vaccines not only protect a dog's respiratory health but can help prevent future outbreaks," added Dr. Royal. 4. Keep track of your pet's wellness with smart tech There are all kinds of connected tech devices that can help you keep tabs on your pet's overall wellness while traveling. They can be useful in both fun and stressful situations. If you enjoy taking your pet on hikes or walks when you travel, an activity behavior and tracking device from Sure Petcare offers a great option for pet parents on-the-go because it uses smart technology to track a dog's unique activity levels and behavior within a user-friendly mobile app. The device captures important data on things like sleep quality, barking and scratching, and can even send an alert through the app if there are any significant changes in these behaviors. In addition, for cat owners, if you leave your cat at home every now and then while traveling, you may be familiar with the nerves that come with making sure they are eating and drinking regularly. Smart devices like the Felaqua® Connect pet bowl by Sure Petcare can monitor a cat's water intake and report on drinking patterns such as frequency and duration via the Sure Petcare mobile app. Tracking a cat's water intake is especially important because it provides crucial insights into their health and well-being whether you are at home or away. "At the end of the day, pet owners want peace of mind that they are doing everything in their power to care for their pets," said Dr. Royal. "Using these four tips, you can keep dogs and cats of all personalities and needs safe and healthy during your winter travels." IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION: BRAVECTO has not been shown to be effective for 12-weeks' duration in puppies or kittens less than 6 months of age. Fluralaner is a member of the isoxazoline class. This class has been associated with neurologic adverse reactions including tremors, ataxia, and seizures. BRAVECTO Chew: The most commonly reported adverse reactions include vomiting, decreased appetite, diarrhea, lethargy, polydipsia, and flatulence. BRAVECTO is not effective against lone star ticks beyond 8 weeks of dosing. Seizures have been reported in dogs receiving isoxoline class drugs, even in dogs without a history of seizures. Use with caution in dogs with a history of seizures or neurologic disorders. BRAVECTO Topical Solution for Dogs: The most commonly reported adverse reactions include vomiting, hair loss, diarrhea, lethargy, decreased appetite, and moist dermatitis/rash. Bravecto is not effective against lone star ticks beyond 8 weeks of dosing. For topical use only. Avoid oral ingestion. Seizures have been reported in dogs receiving isoxoline class drugs, even in dogs without a history of seizures. Use caution in dogs with a history of seizures or neurologic disorders. BRAVECTO Topical Solution for Cats: The most commonly reported adverse reactions include vomiting, itching, diarrhea, hair loss, decreased appetite, lethargy, and scabs/ulcerated lesions. BRAVECTO is not effective against American dog ticks beyond 8 weeks of dosing. For topical use only. Avoid oral ingestion. The safety of BRAVECTO has not been established in breeding, pregnant and lactating cats. Neurologic adverse reactions have been reported in cats receiving isoxazoline class drugs, even in cats without a history of neurologic disorders. Use with caution in cats with a history of neurologic disorders.

Partnering with the pros: How to get your lawn ready for spring

If you enjoy time at home these days, you're not alone. According to TruGreen's new survey conducted in collaboration with OnePoll, 69% of Americans spend more time at home than two years ago. And because homeowners enjoy being at home, it's no surprise home improvement remains a priority, with lawns as a top investment in both time and money. While lawns are valuable to homeowners, so is their time. Rather than tackling lawn maintenance, homeowners would rather be with family and friends (49%), doing outdoor activities (36%) or reading a book (33%). But with spring around the corner and warmer weather approaching, now is the first - and best time for homeowners to prepare their lawns for the season ahead. Homeowners should partner with a professional for their lawn care this season so you can spend more time doing things you love - while still achieving the lawn of your dreams. TruGreen®, the nation's leading lawn care provider, breaks down tasks you can do, and those better left to professionals to save time and money. What to tackle as the homeowner Here are the top items to have on your spring lawn maintenance checklist: * Prep your lawn mower for a fresh first cut. After a long winter, your lawnmower needs some love to work at its best. Clean or replace the air filter, change the oil, sharpen the blades and check the spark plug. Once your mower is ready, the first cut is critical to remove dead blades of grass from the past season to wake up the lawn. Always mow grass at the correct height, making sure you don't cut over a third of its height during any single mowing. Most grass types should be kept at least three inches tall, as longer, thicker turf helps combat weeds and conserve water in the soil. * Clear debris to allow your lawn to breathe. As temperatures climb, you may discover your lawn is covered in fallen leaves, sticks and other debris. If you don't remove this debris, your lawn could get smothered and develop unsightly patches, since your lawn and its roots would be prevented from accessing sunlight, air, water and nutrients needed to thrive. Clearing debris also helps professional lawn services be more effective. * Quench your lawn's thirst. Every lawn requires a healthy amount of high-quality H2O. While some will come from rainfall, during drier months you may need to use your garden hose or sprinkler system. Aim for about one inch of water per week. An easy way to measure is by spreading a few empty tuna cans across your lawn as you water. When they're full, that's an inch. When to call in the pros The spring season brings new beginnings and memories with loved ones outdoors. Partnering with the pros for your lawn maintenance lets you maximize your time, so you can do what you love without compromising your outdoor space. "Research shows 68% of Americans trust and hire professionals for home improvement tasks, and with the winter blues behind us, don't miss out on this critical season to nurture your dream lawn," said Brian Feldman, director of technical operations at TruGreen. "Whether it's clearing weeds or providing a boost of nutrients to your lawn, partnering with a professional service can help ensure you're on track for a healthy, green lawn all year." Let the experienced professionals help, here are three tasks better left to the pros: * Tackling weeds before they attack your lawn. No one wants a lawn covered in weeds. Preventive treatments are vital to help fend off annual weeds before they start growing. Starting your lawn care at the right time and under the correct conditions - such as temperature and humidity - is crucial to prevent weeds from germinating, so consult a professional to identify when to start treatments. * Fertilizing your outdoor space. During winter, lawns stay in a hibernating state. Come springtime, they wake up with an appetite, so give your lawn a boost of nutrients with an initial dose of fertilizer. A lawn care professional can ensure this treatment occurs at the best time and in the right amount to bring out the best in your lawn, trees and shrubs. * Tailoring a plan for pesky weeds. Despite your best preventative efforts in the spring, annoying weeds may still pop up. When this happens, a specialist can tailor a post-emergent solution specifically for your outdoor space. Questions about recovering your lawn after being dormant all winter? Visit TruGreen.com to ensure your lawn is on track for a healthy spring season.