Brandpoint - Free Online Content http://www.brandpointcontent.com Technologyen-us 5 Maximize family fun: 4 ways to elevate your camping https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/41484/ 235141041484 Thu, 14 Mar 2024 12:01:00 GMT (BPT) - Spending time together as a family in the great outdoors provides ample opportunities to create treasured memories. Out in nature, you can unwind and discover the world’s natural wonders while bonding with those you love.

Of course, a great camping trip doesn’t happen by accident. If you’ve been camping before, you know that careful planning can make or break your outdoor experience. As you plan your next camping adventure, check out these four tips that can help elevate your family vacation.

1. Create a storage system

A storage system can streamline packing and unpacking your camping items. Use clear plastic bins so you can quickly see and find what you need when you need it.

Remember to include a list of items on each bin lid so everyone in your family can help keep your gear organized. For example, store cookware, utensils, and dishes in one bin and include a list of the individual items and how many of each are in the bin. Consider meal prepping, investing in durable food containers, and organizing them in bins or coolers.

Not only does a storage system help you stay organized throughout your trip, but it also makes storing your equipment between trips easier. When you’re ready for your next outdoor adventure, simply grab your bins and go!

2. Upgrade your gear

Basic gear can do the job, but if your family goes camping often, it’s time to invest in high-quality equipment for comfort and convenience.

For example, consider purchasing larger tents with room dividers so everyone can have a little privacy during the family vacation. Many larger tents also come with a vestibule, allowing you to remove muddy boots and gear outside the tent while remaining sheltered from the elements.

Beyond tents, look into upgrading your camping chairs, sleeping cots and cooking equipment. Also, pick up a power station like the Anker SOLIX C800 Plus Portable Power Station. With just one power station, you can power up to 10 devices at once, including electric stoves, coffee makers, kettles and other camping appliances to enhance your camping experience.

3. Light it up

Once the sun sets, campgrounds can get very dark. To help you navigate at night and keep the good times rolling long after sunset, make sure to bring enough lighting! String fairy lights inside tents and popups for soft mood lighting. Grab extra stake lights from your garden and place them along the entrance to your campsite and in front of tents to help light the way during a nighttime bathroom run. Make sure to have lanterns, flashlights and headlamps on hand, too.

For more illumination, just break out the C800 power station, equipped with two water-resistant LED camping lights with three lighting modes — candle, flood and flashlight — lasting up to eight hours, ensuring peace of mind as the sun sets.

4. Embrace outdoor entertainment

Just because you’re outdoors doesn’t mean you can’t bring a little digital entertainment with you. Take photos, record videos or watch a movie under the stars so you can capture memories while you make them.

To hold your equipment, use the C800’s retractable pole, which you can turn into a hanger, tripod or selfie stick. Just attach lights, cameras, phones or a projector to the pole. Now, you won’t have to worry about the stability of your video! Enjoy the picture-perfect clarity whether you’re watching or making content during your family adventure.

Let these four tips help you elevate your family camping experience. By making your outdoor adventure more comfortable and convenient, you’re sure to make memories your family will remember fondly for years to come.

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Safeguarding your finances: A guide to protecting yourself from fraud https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42849/ 242841042849 Wed, 13 Mar 2024 08:01:00 GMT (BPT) - In today's digital age, the growing portion of our lives taking place online has led to an increased risk of fraud. Cybercriminals are getting smarter and constantly finding new ways to exploit vulnerabilities. In fact, 2023 was the worst year ever for scams, causing people to lose $10 billion according to the FTC.

Yet, that doesn’t mean you need to panic! New technologies are helping protect individuals from scams before they even happen. And by taking a few simple steps, you can ensure your transactions and personal information are kept secure.

Here are some best practices you can adopt to safeguard yourself from fraud:

Keep Your Devices Updated:

One of the fundamental steps in fortifying your defense against fraud is to ensure that your devices, including smartphones, tablets and computers, are running on the latest operating system and software updates. Developers regularly release security patches and updates to address vulnerabilities, and by keeping your devices up to date, you minimize the risk of falling victim to known security loopholes.

Avoid Public Wi-Fi for Online Shopping:

Public Wi-Fi networks, while convenient, are hotspots for potential security breaches. Cybercriminals can easily intercept data transmitted over unsecured networks, putting your sensitive information at risk. It's advisable to avoid making online purchases or accessing your financial accounts when connected to public Wi-Fi. Instead, use a secure and private connection, such as a personal hotspot or a trusted home network, to conduct sensitive transactions.

Use Your Smartphone’s Digital Wallet:

Your smartphone’s digital wallet isn’t just super convenient, but it’s also a more secure way to pay. By setting a unique passcode (that isn’t your address, birthday or phone number) and biometrics (such as facial recognition or fingerprint), your digital wallet will be even more secure than your physical one! Also, be on the lookout for enhancements to wallets that will provide even more features to keep you secure, including by letting users verify identities and manage their data all in one place.

Shop at Reputable Vendors:

When shopping online, it's crucial to stick to reputable vendors and well-known e-commerce platforms. Be wary of unfamiliar websites that may lack the necessary security measures to protect your personal and financial information. Look for websites with secure payment options, indicated by "https://" in the URL, and familiarize yourself with the vendor's reputation by reading reviews from other customers.

Use Multi-Factor Authentication:

Enhance the security of your online accounts by enabling multi-factor authentication (MFA) whenever possible. MFA adds an extra layer of protection by requiring users to verify their identity through a secondary method, such as a one-time code sent to their mobile device or email. This additional step makes it significantly more difficult for unauthorized individuals to gain access to your accounts, even if they have your login credentials.

Zero-Liability Has Your Back:

Financial institutions that issue Mastercard cards won’t hold consumers responsible for “unauthorized transactions,” provided they are promptly reported and the cardholder used reasonable care in protecting the card from loss or theft. As a Mastercard cardholder, Zero Liability applies to your purchases made in the store, over the telephone, online, or via a mobile device and ATM transactions. With protections like that, paying with your card brings more peace of mind than paying with cash or check.

Mastercard has an entire suite of solutions dedicated to fighting fraud and helping approve genuine transactions. That includes identity solutions that validate you are a genuine person; ID Theft Protection, which provides proactive monitoring and resolution of identity theft threats for U.S. Mastercard cardholders; SafetyNet, which leverages AI and machine learning to detect and address fraud more accurately and more quickly than ever before, and more.

Protecting yourself from fraud requires a combination of awareness, vigilance and proactive measures. By keeping your devices updated, avoiding public Wi-Fi for financial transactions, choosing reputable vendors, using multi-factor authentication and paying securely with your card, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to fraudulent activities. Stay informed, stay cautious and take the necessary steps to fortify your digital defenses in the ever-evolving landscape of online security. Learn more about all the ways Mastercard protects cardholders at https://www.mastercard.us/en-us/personal/get-support/safety-security.html.

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Smart Home Trends: Top Appliance Picks for 2024 https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42823/ 242701042823 Tue, 12 Mar 2024 09:35:00 GMT (BPT) - Each year, industry leaders premiere their latest and greatest kitchen and bath products at the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS) — North America’s largest trade show dedicated to all aspects of kitchen and bath design.

At KBIS, trends are established. This year, the standout trend is the combination of technology and sustainability.

According to smart lifestyle expert Carley Knobloch, “I never believed it was enough to be able to remotely control our appliances from our smartphones. A truly smart home solves real problems and rises up to meet you where you are to make things easier and more comfortable. It was great to see how dialed-in smart kitchen appliances have become to both of those missions, whether it be by optimizing food preservation or taking the guesswork out of creating a beautiful and healthy dinner for one’s family.”

You don’t have to be in the industry to find out which brands and products are on the cutting edge. Check out these four home appliances that can transform your life with ease, performance and efficiency.

1. Smart washer/dryer makes laundry a breeze

Bring accessibility, energy efficiency and convenience to your home with the 5.0-cubic-foot Mega Capacity Smart WashCombo™. In just under two hours, you can run a complete wash and dry cycle without transferring clothes.

As the largest capacity combo model available, the All-in-One WashCombo™ tackles heavy loads — including king-size comforters — without a special electrical hookup. Best of all, the appliance uses 60% less energy than a traditional LG vented model thanks to LG’s Inverter HeatPump™. The proprietary technology delivers quiet operation and the greatest energy efficiency of all washer/dryer combos.

2. Smart induction cooktops marry aesthetics and performance

Homeowners might be interested in the new ENERGY STAR certification for select cooking appliances. Take, for instance, smart induction cooktops like those from LG (available in 30- and 36-inch sizes) and a 36-inch model from Signature Kitchen Suite; they are the first in the industry to earn this distinction. The innovative kitchen appliances are as beautiful as they are efficient. Enjoy the stylish and professional look and feel of a ceramic induction cooktop that delivers exceptional power, precision and responsiveness for fast, efficient heating and even cooking. Plus, cleaning is simple with the SmoothTouch Glass Controls and smooth surface.

3. Transform your kitchen into a chef’s dream with a kitchen suite

Luxury brand Signature Kitchen Suite’s Transitional Series features built-in kitchen appliances spanning cooking, refrigeration and dishwasher categories for those who prefer transitional and contemporary kitchen designs. The collection of appliances features slimmer handles — a deliberate departure from conventional pro-style control knobs — and a satin stainless steel finish for an enhanced sleek aesthetic. Advanced smart technology empowers today’s forward-thinking home chefs to curate a true culinary experience.

Leading the collection is the Signature Kitchen Suite 30-inch Double Wall Oven. An innovative built-in camera lets home chefs monitor their dishes in real time, take snapshots and capture shareable time-lapse videos. Also, integrating the built-in camera with artificial intelligence propels the brand’s new “Gourmet AI” food recognition technology, which identifies ingredients and effortlessly generates delectable recipe suggestions through the ThinQ App.

4. Save more with Heat Pump Water Heaters

The new Inverter Heat Pump Water Heater from LG helps homeowners save money and reduce energy usage and their carbon footprint. This energy-efficient hot water solution combines heat pump technology with LG's advanced smart control systems, raising the bar for residential water heaters. It is a highly energy-efficient alternative to conventional water heaters, surpassing ENERGY STAR certification requirements, and is available in a variety of capacities.

With potential energy savings of up to 76% compared to conventional electric heaters, the Inverter Heat Pump Water Heater minimizes reliance on supplemental electric resistance heat. According to EnergyStar.gov, heat pump water heaters earning ENERGY STAR certification can save a household of four approximately $550 per year on electric bills compared to a standard electric water heater and more than $5,610 over the product's lifetime.

LG and Signature Kitchen Suite jointly received 12 awards and accolades during KBIS, including recognition as a finalist in KBIS’s DesignBites. Additionally, the LG WashCombo was honored as a Best of KBIS finalist in the sustainability standout category.

To learn about these and other groundbreaking, sustainable products, visit LG.com/US and SignatureKitchenSuite.com.

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Small business growth made easy with AI https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42828/ 242751042828 Mon, 11 Mar 2024 08:01:00 GMT (BPT) - If your small business doesn’t have an online presence, you're getting in the way of your own success. According to a new survey by small business services platform GoDaddy, 89% of consumers say it is important for a small business to have a website, yet nearly a quarter of small businesses (24%) don’t.

Maybe you’ve considered building a website or creating social media accounts for your small business, but lack the time or experience to do so. It’s not surprising. Venture Forward, a small business research initiative, surveyed 6,000 entrepreneurs in the U.S. and U.K. and found that 42% of them cite difficulty marketing their businesses as a top challenge.

Artificial intelligence, however, is changing the game for small businesses. Emerging generative AI tools can instantly and inexpensively provide customized help to small businesses. GoDaddy survey respondents indicated they believe AI can save them more than $4,000 and 300 hours of work per year.

Here's how generative AI can help you create, build and grow your business’s online presence, even with limited tech skills and tight time constraints.

1. Create your brand

Whether starting a business from scratch or taking your brick-and-mortar business online, you’ll need some help creating your digital identity. For example, you may have a business name but no clue how to turn that into a memorable domain name. AI can help you get started on that journey instantly.

Even if you only have an inkling of an idea, a solution like GoDaddy Airo™ can recommend catchy domain names with just a quick description of your business. This may seem like a small step, but once you have a domain that resonates with your vision, all you have to do is register it, and your small business has officially gone digital.

2. Build your online presence

Now that you’re online, it’s time to build your business’s presence. Plenty of platforms offer to do the heavy lifting when it comes to building a website. However, you’ll still need to design graphics and draft content to populate your site, taking more time away from running your business. Plus, that work doesn’t come naturally to everyone.

Instead of contracting with someone to develop your website, AI can be your web creator. AI solutions go as far as generating a fully built website with imagery and content to help you engage current and potential customers. From creating logos to professional email accounts to auto-generated product descriptions, there's a lot you can do with AI — even register your business as an LLC.

3. Grow your customer base

Once you’ve established your website, it’s time to turn your attention to growing your business by capturing new customers. In the modern world, that means expanding the places your business shows up online.

This is not a one-and-done task. It takes continuous — weekly if not daily — attention.

Instead of taking on these tasks yourself, use AI to build email campaigns, a social media calendar and low-cost ads to draw traffic to your website. These simple activities are essential to the longevity of your business.

Are you ready to let AI work for you? GoDaddy Airo™ makes leveraging the power of AI easy for anyone wanting to start a business or take their existing one to the next level. Visit GoDaddy.com/ai to see everything generative AI can do for you.

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Money Matters: Key Insights into Tax Refunds and Financial Priorities https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42819/ 242681042819 Thu, 07 Mar 2024 12:00:00 GMT (BPT) - Tax season can be a stressful and challenging time for many Americans. In fact, according to the second-annual “Straight Talk Wireless™ Tax Stress Index,” 1 in 5 people want to throw their phone due to frustration over taxes.

That’s not all Straight Talk uncovered. Below are three key findings from Straight Talk’s annual survey that shed light on American attitudes about taxes and their refunds.

1. Shrinking Refunds

A common fear among tax filers in 2024 is the possibility of smaller returns. 49 percent are worried their tax refund this year won’t be as high as last year.

While no one likes receiving less money than expected, a smaller refund could make life harder for some. The survey found that 60 percent of Americans are in more debt than last year and many of them are counting on their refunds to secure financial stability - 34 percent plan to use their refund to pay off debt.

2. Financial Management

Aside from debt, many Americans have earmarked their refunds for other financial goals. According to the survey, 37 percent plan to save their refund and 34 percent will use it for household expenses.

“Finances remain top of mind for tax filers,” said Lynnette Khalfani-Cox, personal finance expert and bestselling author of the new book Bounce Back: The Ultimate Guide to Financial Resilience. “Inflation anxiety and rising debt continue to plague Americans. It’s not surprising that instead of paying for a vacation or buying luxury items, people are using their refunds as part of their financial management strategy.”

3. Upgrades

While extravagant spending may not be in the cards, many tax filers do plan to spend their refunds on practical expenses. Nearly half, about 44 percent of Americans, say they plan to upgrade their phone using their tax refund.

If you’ve been thinking about upgrading your phone, tax season may be your best bet. Not only will you have extra cash, but you’re also likely to find deals. For example, with Straight Talk, you’ll find great deals on service plans with a wide selection of smartphones at affordable prices. Right now, Straight Talk is offering a Samsung Galaxy A14 5G for free with the purchase of the Extended Silver Unlimited plan.* To learn more, visit StraightTalk.com or a Walmart store near you.

With prepaid, no-contract plans, you can embrace benefits like flexibility and savings all year long – but especially during tax season.

*Offer valid through 6/9/24 while supplies last. At participating stores. Must purchase a Straight Talk Extended Silver Unlimited Plan to qualify (90-Day, 180-Day or Annual Plan). In-Store activation required at Walmart. Limit of two phones per customer. Taxes and fees apply. ©2024 TRACFONE.

Survey methodology: This random double-opt-in survey of 2,000 general population Americans was commissioned by Straight Talk Wireless between January 16 and January 21, 2024. It was conducted by market research company OnePoll.

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More multiple myeloma patients eligible for stem cell transplantation https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/41997/ 238781041997 Thu, 07 Mar 2024 08:01:00 GMT (BPT) - Article is sponsored and developed by BioLineRx USA, Inc.

Receiving a cancer diagnosis is overwhelming. There is a lot to learn while navigating numerous emotions. It’s always important to educate yourself about the disease as well as new research advances or therapies that might be right for you.

One cancer with recent treatment developments is multiple myeloma. This cancer is a hematologic malignancy, meaning it begins in blood-forming tissues like bone marrow. Multiple myeloma is the second most-common hematologic malignancy, occurring most commonly in people ages 65-74.1,2 It was estimated that more than 35,000 people in the U.S. were diagnosed with multiple myeloma in 2023.2

Multiple myeloma is a cancer of the plasma cells. Normal plasma cells are found in the bone marrow and are an important part of the immune system, according to the American Cancer Society.3 In general, when plasma cells become cancerous and grow out of control, this is multiple myeloma.

Treatment for multiple myeloma

Autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) is an important part of treatment for multiple myeloma. In the U.S., as many as 8,000 ASCTs are performed each year in patients with multiple myeloma.4 Patients with multiple myeloma should speak with their doctor or transplant team to learn about ASCT and if it’s the right treatment approach for them.

“An increasing number of patients are candidates for ASCT which, when successful, has shown progression-free survival in people with multiple myeloma,” said Dr. Henry Fung, MD, FACP, FRCPE, Chair, Department of Bone Marrow Transplant and Cellular Therapies, Fox Chase Cancer Center.

The ASCT process starts by taking the patient’s own stem cells including blood or bone marrow which are removed or harvested through a procedure called apheresis. Stem cells are early cells that can develop into different types of blood cells, including plasma cells. Stem cells are collected, frozen and stored. The patient typically undergoes conditioning chemo, and the stem cells are then thawed and returned (transplanted) back into the patient.5 The stem cells travel to the bone marrow, engraft, and then start making new, normal blood cells.

Challenges and unmet needs

The success of ASCT depends on adequate mobilization of stem cells during the treatment process. Poor mobilization can be attributed to a variety of risk factors including increased age, evolving induction regimens, previous treatment, and previous radiation therapy among other risk factors.6-8

Prior to apheresis, patients go through induction therapy to reduce the amount of cancer cells in the blood. Depending on induction regimens and mobilization strategies, up to 47% of patients have had challenges collecting target numbers of hematopoietic stem cells for ASCT after one apheresis session.6,9 Due to the unpredictability in treatment and the possible need for multiple apheresis sessions, there’s the potential for significant burden on patients, care partners and apheresis centers.10

Understanding your treatment options

There have been advancements in the treatment approach in multiple myeloma, including in induction regimens and stem cell mobilization, and it is important for patients to understand their options.

“Patients have, for example, the ability to seek information on ways to reach target collection goals with the fewest numbers of apheresis sessions,” continued Dr. Fung. “Fewer apheresis sessions may mean giving patients time back to spend in ways they enjoy.”

If you or a loved one has multiple myeloma, talk with your doctor about current treatment options which may be best for you. For more information about multiple myeloma and ASCT, visit the American Cancer Society at cancer.org, the HealthTree Foundation at healthtree.org/myeloma or the International Myeloma Foundation at myeloma.org. To learn more about the company sponsoring this article visit: biolinerx.com.

+++

  1. Kazandjian D. Semin Oncol. 2016 Dec;43(6):676-681
  2. SEER Cancer Stat Facts: Myeloma. National Cancer Institute. Bethesda, MD, https://seer.cancer.gov/statfacts/html/mulmy.html
  3. American Cancer Society. What is Multiple Myeloma?. Atlanta, Ga. American Cancer Society; 2023.
  4. Auletta JJ, et al. Current use and outcome of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation: CIBMTR US summary slides. 2021.
  5. American Cancer Society. Types of Stem Cell and Bone Marrow Transplants. Atlanta, Ga. American Cancer Society; 2023.
  6. Edmisson J, et al. Poster presented at: 64th American Society of Hematology Annual Meeting and Exposition; December 10-13, 2022; New Orleans, LA.
  7. Hulin C, et al. Haematologica. 2021;106(8):2257-2260. doi:10.3324/haematol.2020.261842
  8. Chhabra S, et al. Transplant Cell ­Ther. 2023;29(3):174.e1-174.e10. doi:10.1016/j.jtct.2022.11.029
  9. DiPersio JF, et al. Blood. 2009; 113(23):5720-6.
  10. Shaughnessy P, et al. Biol Blood Marrow Transplant, 2013;19(9)1301-1309. doi:10.1016/j.bbmt.2013.05.008
©BioLineRx USA, Inc. 2023. All rights reserved.

US-CORP-2300038 (v1.0) 03/2024

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5 reasons for students to explore new subjects in an online summer course https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42852/ 242861042852 Sat, 02 Mar 2024 02:01:00 GMT (BPT) - Summer means school’s out, but that doesn’t mean your student has to stop learning. High school students can make the most of their summer by applying to an online summer program. Students who participate in a virtual summer program can explore new subjects and expand their skills while still leaving plenty of downtime to enjoy the warmer months.

Stanford Pre-Collegiate Summer Institutes, a summer enrichment program, offers intensive study of a single online course that can feed the passions and intellect of curious students. Not only does a virtual summer program give students unique academic experiences, but such programs also provide memorable experiences they’ll carry with them for years to come.

If your student is on the fence about taking an online summer course, check out the program’s top five reasons to apply.

1. Accessible education

When it comes to accessibility, online summer programs can’t be beat! Instead of traveling to a different country or flying your student to a different state, bring summer education to you. Virtual summer classes allow students to focus on learning from the comfort of home, with no travel required. Online programs also tend to cost less than on-campus day or boarding summer programs, allowing more students access to a quality education.

2. Smaller classes

Summer classes held in large lecture halls make it difficult for students to receive personalized attention. However, online programs often offer smaller classes, so instructors can focus on each student’s needs. Small online classes can also foster a more interactive environment where students can engage with peers and instructors for a more enriching learning experience.

3. College-level academics

High school students should use their summer time meaningfully. Online summer programs offer rigorous academic content that can prepare your student for future higher education. Whether they explore a new, interesting subject or deepen their knowledge of a core subject, such studies can set students up for future academic success.

4. Global community

Online summer programs connect your student to a vibrant global community where they can meet peers from different backgrounds and cultures. By collaborating with students from around the world, they’ll gain new perspectives and broaden horizons that may not be accessible in their hometown. Some peers may even become lifelong friends!

5. Student life

In addition to engaging small class sessions, these programs offer fun outside of class. Student life activities may include virtual social events, community engagement opportunities and workshops on topics like health, wellness and leadership. These extracurricular activities create a well-rounded educational experience that goes beyond the classroom.

Don’t let summer opportunities slip by! Your student should apply to one of Stanford Pre-Collegiate Summer Institutes’ online summer courses. Get a taste of a college classroom experience that challenges students with advanced content not typically found in the high school curriculum.

All classes are taught by knowledgeable instructors who are passionate about their academic disciplines and committed to teaching high school students in an interactive online environment. To learn more about Stanford Pre-Collegiate Summer Institutes classes and more, visit summerinstitutes.spcs.stanford.edu.

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Closing the cyber gap: How higher education partnerships empower women in security careers https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42043/ 239161042043 Thu, 29 Feb 2024 09:01:00 GMT (BPT) - The cybersecurity field is booming. According to the Cybersecurity Infrastructure and Security Agency’s (CISA) National Initiative for Cybersecurity Careers and Studies, there are over 570,000 open cybersecurity positions in the U.S. alone. With open positions increasing by 35% in the last year, there is a growing need for experts in the field. However, a significant portion of the country’s workforce may be left out.

Despite making up nearly half of the nation’s workforce, women only hold 26% of the cyber workforce. According to CIO Magazine, women of color are at an even greater disadvantage, with only 3% of computing-related jobs filled by African American women, 7% by Asian women and 2% by Hispanic women.

What’s holding women back from entering the cybersecurity field? According to a recent survey sponsored by DeVry University, women in all industries face persistent barriers to upskilling. If women, particularly in technology, lack chances to acquire new skills, they will face challenges in enhancing their performance in their present roles or advancing their careers.

Women face persistent upskilling barriers

Upskilling is crucial to future-proofing careers in an economy shaped by swift, continuous technological change, and many companies have taken note. According to the survey, nearly 80% of employers offer company-paid upskilling benefits.

However, the availability of resources does not necessarily ensure that they are accessible to everyone. The majority, 55% of the women surveyed, said upskilling is essential for their future career development. But only a meager 37% of surveyed women say they have used company-paid upskilling compared to 56% of men.

Gender seems to have a significant impact on access to upskilling resources, with 73% of men having access compared to only 56% of women. In terms of barriers, a lack of time (41%) and family obligations (35%) present the largest obstacles for women in their pursuit of upskilling. Concerningly, this lack of access to upskilling leaves women twice as likely to leave their jobs compared to men.

Who should and how can they address these inequalities and create opportunities for women in the tech industry?

“Our nation’s colleges, universities and nonprofits must create shorter, more agile processes of education and training to solve the critical workforce shortage,” said Lynn Dohm, Executive Director at Women in CyberSecurity (WiCyS). “However, higher education institutions are not alone in this effort. Corporate organizations must develop new work-and-learn models to train people on the job and embrace hiring approaches that rely less on traditional credentials and more on job-specific skills and career experiences.”

Building a brighter, equitable and diverse future

DeVry is leaning in to help address and close the gender gap in the tech industry through its Women+Tech Scholars Program. Designed to combine curriculum, DeVry’s Formula of CARE and partnerships with WiCyS and other industry organizations, the program aims to attract and retain women in tech roles.

The program offers various access to tools and resources to help women take the first step in pursuing a tech career, including mentorship, industry-related internships, job opportunities, basic CompTIA industry association membership and professional certification reimbursement assistance.

“We believe in the value that women can bring to industries that require digital talent, and financial hurdles should be the last thing to stand in their way, said Scarlett Howery, vice president of Public Workforce Solutions at DeVry. “That’s why we’re committed to helping women launch their careers in tech, providing support that’s specially designed for them.”

The Women+Tech Scholars program isn’t the only way the university is providing access and support to women in tech. DeVry also offers the Future Cyber Defenders Scholars Program, which provides DeVry and Keller students with the resources and support to succeed as cybersecurity professionals. These programs not only offer continuous pathways for women in tech today but could serve as an inspiration for other programs around the country to help build a brighter, equitable and diverse future for the tech industry.

The Women+Tech Scholars Program is open to new students who identify as female and enroll in technology programs at DeVry. To learn more about this and other programs, visit DeVry.edu.

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How Bitcoin is Becoming a Viable Enterprise Tool https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/41183/ 233271041183 Tue, 27 Feb 2024 13:11:01 GMT (BPT) - On Jan. 10, 2024, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) approved several exchange-traded funds (ETFs) that invest directly in Bitcoin, paving the way for "the largest debut month of any ETF in 30 years" when they opened for trading the very next day, according to Cointelegraph.com. Reuters reported that U.S.-listed bitcoin ETFs Grayscale, BlackRock and Fidelity led the field in heavy trading volumes of Bitcoin ETFs as soon as the market opened on Jan. 11.

This evidence of a surge of interest in Bitcoin, while many financial professionals still regard it as involving significant risk, shows no signs of slowing down, at least in the near future.

A platform that makes it easy to use cryptocurrency

If your business is interested in having the ability to use Bitcoin, you might think that doing so would be overly complicated.

But today, Bitcoin is becoming more usable, thanks to software-as-a-service (SaaS) style products like those from industry-leading Bitcoin-development platform Voltage. Voltage allows businesses to provide customers with a technological solution designed to make Bitcoin transactions seamless via the Lightning Network, which helps speed transaction times and decreases network congestion.

Voltage empowers engineering teams with Bitcoin-centric infrastructure that enables enterprise-grade experiences. By leveraging Voltage, your company will receive the fastest and most scalable Lightning Network solution that meets the highest security and privacy standards.

Upgraded features

Voltage has recently revamped several of its processes and services to meet all of its customers' needs and requests. Top updates include features such as:

  • Streamlined dashboard combines the ability to manage your node and view your data in one dashboard, making it more straightforward to see everything happening with your account.

  • Team collaboration features allow you to add users to your team, granting them specific types of access.

  • Simplified pricing options make it easier to pay only for those services you need and to scale and adapt your plan as your needs grow. The Voltage billing platform now conforms closer to a standard SaaS product, so all users can select a plan based on their usage and required features.

"Based on the recent upsurge in trading in Bitcoin ETFs alone, we anticipate a significant increase in network participants for Bitcoin on-chain and the Lightning Network in 2024," said Voltage Founder and CEO Graham Krizek. "To meet this influx, we constantly strive to provide the best possible experience and rock-solid platform on the market today."

Experiencing the next generation of building on Bitcoin via the Lightning Network is now easier than ever. Voltage is a one-stop shop for your organization's Bitcoin payments, data, and analytics needs during rapid technological changes and market shifts. Learn how at Voltage.cloud.

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Public safety policies and community trust: How to bridge the gap https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42572/ 241561042572 Tue, 27 Feb 2024 08:01:01 GMT (BPT) - Public safety policy development is an inherently complex process that is often misunderstood. Many people outside public safety believe federal and state governments provide policies to law enforcement agencies and other first responder departments. The reality is that fire, police and emergency medical services agencies must develop their own policies using legislation, court decisions and federal, state and local laws.

While policy development is a challenge for public safety agencies, it also represents an opportunity. In many municipalities, trust between the community and public safety, especially law enforcement, is lacking. Involving community members in policy development allows first responders to foster meaningful relationships with the community. This partnership can build mutual understanding of the legitimacy and effectiveness of public safety policies.

A collaborative approach to public safety policy review and development also provides diverse experiences and voices that reflect the community's values, concerns and priorities. By incorporating various perspectives from the community, fire, EMS and law enforcement agencies can develop policies that better serve the needs of the people they protect, fostering trust and collaboration for a safer future.

The challenge lies in how to effectively incorporate community members into policy review.

5 key questions

To help public safety agencies and their communities, Lexipol — a leader in policy, training and wellness support for first responders and public servants — has identified five key questions for agencies to answer when bringing community members into the policy review process:

  1. What are we trying to accomplish? Before starting, all parties must agree on the purpose of the review process. If community members come into the process expecting to completely rewrite policy, they will be disappointed. At the same time, public safety leaders can’t look at this as a “check the box” process where no meaningful changes will be made.
  2. Who should be involved? Community members chosen for policy review should represent diverse perspectives and populations. As nearly all policy review committees are volunteer, they must be able to make a time commitment and a good faith commitment to the process.
  3. How should policy review be conducted? Lexipol recommends setting guidelines for the policy review process. For example, how will the committee reconcile differing recommendations? Also key is to focus the discussion on the needs and existing situation of the specific community. Too many policy discussions are derailed by emotional reactions to high-profile events in other communities.
  4. What policies should be reviewed? Most public safety agencies have policy manuals with hundreds of policies. Selecting the ones that matter most to community members will expedite the review process and make the most of the volunteer reviewers’ time.
  5. What types of changes should be considered? Lexipol recommends looking at all proposed changes through a three-part lens: Is the policy change applicable, practical and functional? For instance, a community review board may suggest that all body camera footage be released immediately following incidents. That change is well-meaning, but unlikely to meet the practicality test, as issues of redaction, privacy and storage must be reconciled.

A strong starting point

Key to an effective policy review process involving the public is having a well-written, legally vetted process in place for the review board to work with. Lexipol public safety policy services and policy management software help law enforcement, corrections, fire and rescue, and local government by providing a starting point for policy development. The company provides comprehensive policies researched and written by public sector attorneys, practitioners and subject matter experts, then works with agencies to tailor policies to each community's specific needs.

As part of policy development services, Lexipol can help agencies design and implement a community review process. From establishing a committee to providing basic training to committee members, agencies will have the tools to involve their communities in public safety policy review and creation. Lexipol's platform allows users to involve community stakeholders so they can provide feedback during the process.

While policy reform can be a fraught and divisive subject, at the end of the day, first responders and community stakeholders want the same thing: safer and more resilient communities. To learn more about how Lexipol's policy services and online platform are helping achieve those goals, visit Lexipol.com.

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4 ways smart home technology can simplify your life https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42833/ 242781042833 Wed, 21 Feb 2024 17:45:00 GMT Play Video

(BPT) - Smart home devices — like speakers, lights, plugs, thermostats, and cameras — can help simplify your day-to-day life with added convenience, efficiency, and peace of mind. In fact, according to the 2023 Deloitte Connected consumer study, 77% of people who have embraced smart home devices believe that these technologies improve their overall quality of life.

Whether you’re a tech enthusiast or just want to make your daily life a bit easier, here are four tips to help you get the most out of your smart home setup.

Get a smart home control panel

Optimize your smart home experience by investing in a central smart home control panel. Instead of using multiple apps and platforms, a control panel acts as a central command center for your home. Manage and control all your smart devices — including lights, thermostats, locks, cameras, blinds, and more — from a single device to streamline your daily routine and improve the functionality of your home.

An easy-to-use and affordable control panel is the new Amazon Echo Hub. The wall-mountable smart home panel is Alexa-enabled and designed so you can easily and intuitively manage all your smart devices from one display. Echo Hub is compatible with thousands of connected devices across all major smart home protocols. So, WiFi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, Thread, and Matter devices sync seamlessly with the built-in smart home hub, allowing you to mix and match devices, regardless of the brand or manufacturer.

Set up Routines to automate your home

Set up Routines so your smart home devices can work harder for you. Personalized Routines allow you to group together multiple actions so you don’t have to ask for each one individually — saving time and effort throughout the day. And, there are many ways to activate Routines — time of day, by asking Alexa, or simply by tapping your Echo Hub.

For example, you can create a Routine that turns off the lights, locks the doors, turns on your security system, and adjusts the thermostat when you say “Alexa, I’m leaving.” Routines can also help your home use less energy. For example, you can set a Routine that automatically turns off the lights when no one is in a room, or adjusts the thermostat when no one is home.

Securely monitor and manage your home

Syncing security cameras, smart locks, and an alarm system to your smart home setup adds a layer of convenience and protection.

Smart cameras allow you to remotely monitor your home's interior and exterior, whether you're at work, running errands, or just at home. A control panel like Echo Hub makes it easy to view camera feeds quickly, and allows you to receive proactive notifications when someone is at your front door — without taking out your phone. And, if you forgot to lock the front door or turn on the security system before bed, you can simply ask Alexa or tap your Echo Hub to lock and secure your home.

Personalize your smart home to YOU

The beauty of a smart home is that it allows you to set up the devices, groups, actions, and Routines that work best for you, your lifestyle, and your space. Echo Hub not only displays your favorite smart home devices, but it also surfaces Alexa widgets — like your household calendar and reminders, lists, notes, recently played music or the weather — to help you stay on track. And, the display is customizable, so you can add, remove, or rearrange the content you see on your Home screen to align with your day-to-day life.

Make your smart home work for you, not the other way around. Using these four tips, you'll be well on your way to a more personalized and simplified home experience. To learn more about Echo Hub, visit Amazon.com/echohub.

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Tax Refund Checks More Important Than Ever, According To New Survey https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42818/ 242681042818 Mon, 19 Feb 2024 12:49:00 GMT (BPT) - Straight Talk Wireless commissioned its second-annual survey to understand consumer sentiment around tax time and found that 60 percent of survey respondents say they are more in debt than last year and will file their taxes early.

The sooner taxpayers file, the faster they get their refund, which 61 percent say is vital to their household’s financial stability. But with consumer debt at a new high*, timing won’t be everything as the survey also showed that taxpayers continue to worry the money won’t be enough. Find out more here.

*The total household debt of $17.3 trillion entering 2024 is a new high for the U.S. The largest increase in any category was credit card debt, which swelled by 16.6% between Q3 2022 and Q3 2023, the most recent term for which federal data was available.


Survey methodology: This random double-opt-in survey of 2,000 general population Americans was commissioned by Straight Talk Wireless between January 16 and January 21, 2024. It was conducted by market research company OnePoll.

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Save on LG WashCombo and other appliances this Presidents Day https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42824/ 242711042824 Fri, 16 Feb 2024 15:47:00 GMT (BPT) - Do you want to save money and electricity while modernizing your home? This Presidents Day, you can do both by taking advantage of LG’s deals now through Feb. 28.

LG is committed to providing energy-efficient solutions that are stylish and dependable for a cleaner, greener home. From thoughtful appliance features to groundbreaking technology, the company considers your wallet and the planet every step of the way. Check out these Presidents Day deals on top-rated kitchen and laundry appliances that will make your life easier and help you go green.

Keep your wardrobe fresh with an LG washer/dryer

Laundry has never been easier, thanks to LG’s washer/dryer units! The ENERGY STAR®-certified appliances use ventless inverter HeatPump™ technology, so you can enjoy quiet operation, greater energy efficiency and advanced fabric care.

Take back your time by bringing home an LG WashCombo All-in-One, now $1,000 off. The innovative 2-in-1 appliance washes and dries laundry in under two hours. Once you push start, you can go about your day without pausing a project or show to flip laundry. Built-in AI takes the guesswork out of fabric care, automatically detecting fabric texture and load size and selecting the right wash motions, temperatures and dry motions level.

If you want separate washer and dryer appliances in a single-unit design, consider LG WashTower and save $900. The front-load washer and dryer takes up half the space of a traditional washer and dryer setup. With the saved space, you can add a sink, folding table or organizational storage to reinvent how you do laundry. Plus, unlike conventional stacked pairs, LG’s exclusive Center Control® panel is easy to reach.

Control and monitor both appliances via the ThinQ® app. In the app, you’ll discover ThinQ Care™, which sends usage, maintenance and diagnostic alerts straight to your phone to keep your appliances running smoothly. Meanwhile, ThinQ® UP updates your appliances’ software, adding new features without additional purchases.

Test your culinary skills with LG cooking appliances

Are you ready to take your cooking to the next level? Impress friends and family by cooking delicious meals on an LG Smart Induction cooking appliance. The energy-efficient induction technology transfers heat directly to your cookware instead of the cooktop surface for fast heating, quick and even cooking and precise temperature control.

This Presidents Day, check out LG’s LSIL6334FE Smart Induction Slide-in Range with ProBake Convection® and Air Fry. As the first EnergyStar-certified cooking model in the U.S., you can quickly and confidently prepare meals using energy-efficient induction. Also, the LG ProBake Convection® oven automatically selects the lower speed for delicate baking or the higher speed for air frying and roasting.

Want even more convenience and cooking options? Look no further than LG's LSIL6336FE Smart Induction Slide-in Range, now $500 off. You can turn out perfect batches of cookies, air fry hot wings and air sous vide meat, fish and vegetables. Also, the InstaView® Window lets you keep track of your creations without interrupting the cooking process. Just knock twice, take a peek and rest easy.

Like its laundry counterparts, the cooktop and oven are compatible with the ThinQ app, so you can control, maintain and check your kitchen appliances from anywhere.

Bundle and save even more!

You can save up to $500 this Presidents Day when you bundle two or more eligible LG appliances. Some kitchen appliances may even qualify for a $100 instant saving per item on up to four products on installation and/or haul away.

Make this Presidents Day one to remember with savings on top-tier home appliances that offer convenience and energy efficiency. To find more Presidents Day deals, visit LG.com/US/Promotions.

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5 tips to help your student thrive this year https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42790/ 242431042790 Thu, 15 Feb 2024 07:01:01 GMT (BPT) - Do you remember how challenging school could be? As a parent, it’s easy to forget that studying and homework aren’t always easy. Your child needs your support and guidance to help stay on task with studies and achieve at the highest level.

Don’t know where to start? Check out these top five tips to help support your student’s educational journey so they can thrive academically this year.

1. Get organized

Messy and cluttered school supplies are a recipe for frustration. Encourage your student to keep notes and handouts organized to quickly and easily locate what is needed for any assignment. Encourage your student to pick out notebooks, folders and binders in favorite colors and designs. Let your student label or decorate front covers and assign a subject to each.

Take organization to the next level with a digital tool like the Five Star® Study App. Using the app and Five Star compatible notebooks, folders and academic planners, your student can scan handwritten notes and handouts to access study materials anytime, anywhere!

Once digitized, your student can add, revise and arrange notes as needed, organizing materials into digital folders that correspond with physical notebook colors. The free app provides your child with the best of physical and digital studying and even turns notes and handouts into digital flashcards.

2. Create a consistent study routine

It may sound simple, but establishing a consistent study routine can go a long way to help your student succeed in school. Creating a routine develops time management and prioritization skills for tasks and projects.

Guide your student to set a time each day for homework and studying, for example right after school, before or after dinner or extracurriculars. If a certain time isn’t working, suggest a change to find a time and rhythm that works best.

No matter what time of day they choose, consistency is the most important aspect of a study routine. After a couple of weeks, the study routine will become a habit that provides consistency and stability so your child can focus on tasks with minimal distractions.

3. Set realistic goals

A large project or study packet can be overwhelming and discouraging for anyone, let alone a young scholar. Expecting to finish a large assignment or study for a big test in one sitting can seem daunting and cause undue anxiety.

Help your child avoid panic and stress by helping set realistic and achievable study goals. Demonstrate how to break down big assignments into smaller tasks, and even create a task list to check off as each one is completed.

Using a tool like the Five Star Study App, your child can set reminders for different tasks, tackle them at a steady pace, and meet deadlines, building a sense of accomplishment. More importantly, this practice fosters a growth mindset and builds perseverance.

4. Encourage handwritten notes

Typing notes may be more convenient, but handwritten notes can give your child an academic edge. Many research studies suggest that writing on paper improves recall and allows notetakers to better understand complicated concepts.

You don’t have to sacrifice the power of paper for the convenience of digital. Your student can have the best of both worlds, thanks to the Five Star brand. Students can scan handwritten notes from compatible Five Star school supplies into the study app. To learn more about the Five Star Study App, visit FiveStarBuiltStrong.com.

5. Take regular breaks

Nonstop studying can quickly lead to burnout and less productivity. During study sessions, invite your child to take a break. Take a walk together, do some quick stretches, or simply ask them to step away from the study area and go outside to get some fresh air. When returning to study, your student will feel refreshed and ready to tackle the remaining assignments.

Every child is different, so collaborate with your students to find the best strategies that fit their learning style. However your child decides to study, your support is the most important tool in their arsenal. Using these five tips and fostering a positive attitude toward learning, you can help set up your child for academic success in 2024.

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How a novel treatment helped a pro skier heal her ACL https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42726/ 242121042726 Mon, 12 Feb 2024 02:01:00 GMT (BPT) - For some, skiing isn't just a sport. It's a way of life. This is especially true for Holly Reitsema, who was raised in a family of freestyle skiers. Not only is she a competitive freestyle skiing athlete, but she also coaches at the prestigious Woodward Copper snowboard and ski training camp.

"I've been skiing since I was 3 years old. I ski over 200 days a year and it's my livelihood," said Reitsema.

Everything changed for Reitsema when she tore her anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) when she hit a jump while skiing. "Midair, I felt off-axis and shoulder heavy, so I knew I was about to fall. I then did the worst thing possible and fought my fall, so my body was twisted when I landed."

Not an uncommon story

Skiers like Reitsema are well acquainted with ACL injuries. According to Miach Orthopaedics, about 400,000 ACL injuries occur each year in the U.S. Of those injuries, 20,000 happen while skiing. Even with gear maintenance, proper warmup and strengthening exercises, ACL tears still happen to skiers of all levels and ages.

Unlike many other ligaments in the body, the ACL cannot heal on its own and often requires ACL reconstruction (ACLR) surgery. During ACLR, an orthopedic surgeon removes the torn ACL and replaces it with a graft from another part of the body or a deceased donor.

Although ACL reconstruction is effective, the procedure has drawbacks. When a graft is taken from the knee, many patients experience long-term knee pain. And when a graft is taken from the hamstring, patients may have persistent weakness in that muscle. Regardless of the graft type, many people cannot return to the same level of daily activities or sports.

Reitsema's father had ACLR years previously with a patellar tendon graft, and she saw how the injury changed him. Hesitation, pain and multiple operations held him back from his prior feats, and this was not something Reitsema nor her father wanted.

"My local orthopedic surgeon initially suggested I get ACL reconstruction with a patellar tendon graft,” said Reitsema. “I was very hesitant because I wasn't experiencing pain from the ACL tear, but the doctor said I would have pain after getting the graft. I was concerned that I wouldn't be able to return to skiing or coaching. Something just didn't feel right about the patellar tendon graft procedure to me."

A novel treatment for ACL injuries

Luckily for Reitsema, she was an excellent candidate for a novel ACL tear treatment. The BEAR Implant is the first medical advancement that enables the ACL to heal on its own. The implant works by using your own blood to heal the torn ends of your ACL back together, restoring its natural anatomy and function.

During the procedure, the orthopedic surgeon adds your own blood to the BEAR Implant and attaches it between the torn ends of your ACL. The implant holds and protects the blood to allow clot formation. Over time, the BEAR Implant — made of collagen — is resorbed by your body and replaced with native ACL tissue.

"I think the BEAR Implant has the potential to change the entire paradigm around ACL injuries," said Dr. Alex Meininger, an orthopedic surgeon at Steamboat Orthopaedic and Spine Institute in Steamboat Springs, Colorado. "Previously, we as surgeons thought an ACL tear was incompatible with healing and the stump of native ACL tissue unsalvageable. The regenerative medicine potential of the BEAR Implant has turned that notion on its head."

After speaking with Reitsema, Meininger felt that she was a great fit for the BEAR Implant. After the procedure and diligent rehab, Reitsema's ACL healed, and she was able to return to skiing and coaching.

"After hitting the slopes for the first time, I was so proud that my knee didn't tire out," said Reitsema. "Since skiing and coaching again, I have been building my stamina and am more self-aware of my energy levels. These days, once I properly warm up, I feel like I did before I got injured. Being able to hit a rail and demonstrate tricks for my students while coaching is an extreme accomplishment for me."

Reitsema's story isn't the only success of this innovative treatment. To date, over 300 patients with snow-related injuries have been treated with the BEAR Implant. To learn more about the procedure and read safety information, visit BEARImplant.com/Snow.

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New Year, New Vehicle for EcoCAR EV Challenge Teams https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42542/ 241401042542 Thu, 01 Feb 2024 07:01:00 GMT (BPT) - This fall, students participating in the EcoCAR EV Challenge returned to their garages to kick off the second year of the four-year collegiate competition. The EcoCAR EV Challenge, sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), General Motors (GM) and MathWorks, prepares college students to meet the changing demands of the automotive industry by providing them with hands-on training and knowledge of electric vehicles (EVs), connected auto technologies and autonomous vehicle systems.

Following the first year of the competition, which was primarily focused on student teams conceptualizing their vehicle designs, GM provided each team with a 2023 Cadillac LYRIQ which the students are reengineering to add new energy efficient and automated features.

This year, EcoCAR students get the full experience of designing, developing and deploying their own automated vehicle systems. Teams will explore these features with a unique focus on minimizing energy consumption through making energy-mindful decisions, integrating eco-driving control strategies and deploying connected vehicle technologies.

With an all-electric future on the horizon and autonomous mobility continuing to advance, the automotive industry is currently undergoing a once-in-a-century technological revolution and is grappling with massive shifts in technology, workforce, supply chains and its manufacturing base as a result. Vehicles with automated driving features are growing in popularity, with the capability and refinement of these features progressing rapidly year over year as automakers look to Connected and Automated Vehicle (CAV) features to improve vehicle safety and driver experience.

As the development of EVs and new CAV technologies continues to advance, programs such as the EcoCAR EV Challenge are critical for helping to bridge the current skills gap and build the talent pipeline needed to meet the industry’s future needs through cutting-edge automotive engineering education and practical application. The competition is uniquely designed to support the workforce pipeline needed to produce the next generation of EVs, enabling participating students to graduate with the skills and experience to immediately contribute to the development of EVs and CAV systems and drive new auto innovations.

Working closely with mobility and government leaders on a curriculum specifically tailored to align with future industry needs, programs such as EcoCAR and other Advanced Vehicle Technology Competitions (AVTCs) managed by Argonne National Laboratory help address the toughest mobility challenges facing our nation, while building a skilled workforce that reflects the diversity of North America. They help prepare the auto industry leaders of the future by providing them with the necessary knowledge and skillsets to secure high-paying, highly desired roles post-graduation and pave the way for tomorrow’s auto industry advances.

To learn more about the EcoCAR EV Challenge and to follow along on each team's journey, visit avtcseries.org and like, follow and subscribe to the competition’s Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn channels.

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How to maintain a healthier home on a budget https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42004/ 238841042004 Fri, 26 Jan 2024 14:01:00 GMT (BPT) - Living healthily remains a primary concern for many today, with homeowners looking to make home improvements with an emphasis on the health benefits of living in an environmentally friendly space.

"When it comes to home improvement, eco-friendly choices can be budget-friendly," said Bonnie Lee, Vice President of Property Claims at Mercury Insurance. "Healthy home choices, especially for large renovations, can bring your homeowner cost down and save you money on insurance too.”

The journey to a healthier home begins by identifying areas needing regular maintenance and determining which environmentally friendly products can replace current ones. Here's a roundup of beneficial and feasible home enhancements:

Breathe easier with clean air

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) states that indoor air can be up to five times more polluted than outdoor air. The air filters in your home's heating and cooling equipment weed out contaminants like dust and pet dander; however, a dirty filter hampers their efficiency. Regularly cleaning or changing these filters, especially HEPA filters that cost as little as $30, can ensure clean air.

A costless preventive measure is to maintain the proper functioning of smoke and carbon monoxide detectors throughout your home. Fires and carbon monoxide poisoning are more likely during winter when homes are typically heated, making detector maintenance an important step.

Ensuring safe water

Water filters offer a health-centric and budget-conscious upgrade to homes. Filter pitchers start from as low as $20, and there are more upscale alternatives available like under-sink, countertop or faucet-mounted systems.

Water leak detection devices present another home improvement avenue. These systems alert homeowners when a leak is detected and can automatically shut off the water system if a significant issue exists. Mercury Insurance offers a related discount to eligible homes equipped with these devices.

Environmentally friendly and effective household supplies

Attentions have shifted due to concerns over the composition of traditional cleaning products, paints, flooring and construction materials. Many homeowners now prefer environmentally friendly alternatives. Look for biodegradable products based on renewable resources. When painting the walls of your home, look for volatile organic compounds (VOC)-free options or those that are Green Seal or GreenGuard certified.

When it comes to appliances, aim for LEED-certified or STAR-rated products for lower energy usage and eligibility for an insurance discount for green homeowners. For flooring, consider alternatives like unfinished hardwood, stone or concrete, and carpets made from natural fibers. Look for non-toxic adhesives to further limit chemical exposure.

For building materials like drywall and insulation, opt for GreenGuard-certified products to avoid hazardous chemicals.

Adopting routine maintenance and home improvements can foster a healthier living environment and offer financial rewards. For instance, Mercury Insurance provides a 5% green home insurance discount to homeowners with a certification from either the U.S. Green Building Council LEED or the National Association of Home Builders Green Building Guidelines (NAHB).

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Reinvent Your Laundry Experience with New Technology https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/41075/ 232951041075 Thu, 25 Jan 2024 10:01:00 GMT (BPT) - In today’s fast-paced world, finding the time to take care of our household chores is no easy thing. Doing the laundry can be among the most time-consuming and effort-intensive of these chores, typically necessitating a lengthy, multi-step process to get everything clean and dry. To liberate us from the more inconvenient aspects of this essential task, LG is introducing the WashCombo™ All-in-One Washer/Dryer — the newest addition to its line of advanced laundry solutions — in the United States. This new product revolutionizes the laundry experience as a time-saving appliance that boasts high efficiency, bringing us closer to the dream of a Zero Labor Home.

The WashCombo seamlessly integrates a washer and dryer into a single, space-friendly appliance. Saving time and simplifying the entire laundry process, LG’s all-in-one runs a complete wash-and-dry cycle in under two hours, with no need to transfer clothes from one appliance to another.1 And thanks to its compact, ventless design with standard 120v plug, the innovative laundry solution offers outstanding installation flexibility and ensures the ideal use of your precious indoor space.

Featuring LG’s renowned Inverter HeatPump™ technology and Direct Drive Motor, the WashCombo delivers a quiet performance while maximizing efficiency, using up to 60 percent less energy than a vented model.2 Equipped with built-in sensors and AI technology, it can detect fabric texture, soil level and load size, then automatically select the best settings (washing and drying motions, temperatures, and more) to provide advanced fabric care and outstanding laundry results. The WashCombo also boasts a 5.0-cubic-foot capacity, so that it can handle larger loads — even a bulky king-size comforter.3

LG’s latest washer/dryer also presents convenient control with ThinQ™ technology. The ThinQ app offers solutions to potential issues, preventing product misuse and enabling easy maintenance. Through AI Speaker Connectivity, the app also lets you monitor and remotely control your products by simply commanding Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant with your voice. What’s more, you can download additional cycles and access Smart Diagnosis and customer support4 through the app, enhancing the overall user experience and making life — and laundry — much easier.

With LG’s groundbreaking product, you can bid farewell to the hassles of laundry past and say hello to a brand-new era of efficient and effortless clothing care.

The new LG WashCombo All-in-One is available for purchase on LG.com.

# # #

1 Based on independent testing of Wash+Dry cycle, Dryer on Energy Saver mode, 10 lb. load (October 2023).

2 60 percent more energy efficient drying - efficiency rating as compared to the requirements for ENERGY STAR® qualification for standard electric dryers. Based on EnergyStar.gov (November 2023).

3 Based on manufacturers’ published specs of front-load washer/dryer combos with a width of 27 inches or less (September 2023).

4 Available on select LG smart appliances. Features may vary by model.

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4 ways small businesses can innovate without a big budget https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42093/ 239581042093 Thu, 18 Jan 2024 16:01:01 GMT (BPT) - By Irana Wasti, Chief Product Officer at BILL

In today's fast-paced business landscape, it’s important for small business owners to adopt a mindset for innovation. However, the misconception that innovation requires vast resources and significant time investment can often deter entrepreneurs and business builders from pursuing new ideas and strategies. But with the right approach and perspective, small businesses can foster a culture within the company to make innovation more of an ongoing tenet of a successful business.

As small businesses look at their goals for the new year, with some businesses also thinking about how to do more with the same, consider these four practical tips to innovate without breaking the bank or spinning too many resources.

1. Nurture an innovation mindset with your team

Innovation starts with your team. Cultivating an innovation mindset among your team members is the first step toward achieving small wins that lead to breakthroughs. As someone who has led product development teams for over 20 years, I know that the ability and willingness to analyze the environment, listen to feedback, and adapt to change are key disciplines to delivering products that delight customers. Here are some key aspects to consider:

Embrace diverse perspectives: Different backgrounds and experiences bring unique viewpoints that can spark creativity and improve collaboration within your organization. Where you can, build diversity into your hiring strategy.

Foster a culture of openness: Create an atmosphere where employees feel safe to share their ideas and insights freely. Make them feel that their opinions matter and that they have a stake in the company's success. You can do this with monthly brainstorm sessions to get the whole team thinking about different challenges faced by the business.

Promote continuous learning: Encourage ongoing learning and skills development. There are lots of free online training resources that help employees stay updated on industry trends and emerging technologies.

By nurturing an innovation mindset within your team, you can tap into their collective creativity, which can lead to cost-effective innovations that drive your business forward.

2. Listen to your customers and innovate for them

Research from McKinsey & Company has shown that improving the client experience can increase sales revenues by 2%–7%. However, one common pitfall in innovation is over-engineering solutions that don't align with your customers' needs. Prioritize innovation that is rooted in customer feedback, provides value, and aligns with business goals, and is measurable. Here are a few ways you can build trust with your customers and serve as a pipeline to fuel innovation:

Provide multi-channel support: For customers who still need help after navigating your educational resources, offer support across the platforms that matter to them — such as email, social media, SMS, in-app support and more. Leverage tech-enabled tools, such as finance software that offers free phone and chat support with live agents. This meets your customers where they are, letting them reach you in a way they find comfortable and convenient.

Deliver a personalized customer experience with AI tools: Chatbots make a particularly helpful AI-powered customer support tool. A chatbot can respond to customers in real time, offering additional information about your products or services or even fielding customer service questions. AI-powered marketing tools can be used for content creation, social media management, and more. Chatbots and other AI tools can do more than just answer customer inquiries about your products. The best AI tools can adapt and learn from customer behavior.

Cascade the outside, inside: Often customer feedback does not go beyond the customer support team. To help drive more organic innovation, enable regular touch points between team members who face customers and team members who are on the front lines of innovation.

By keeping your customers' needs at the forefront of your innovation efforts, you can ensure your new ideas are well-targeted.

3. Ensure your tech tools help you move the business forward

Efficiency is a cornerstone of cost-effective innovation. Leveraging technology to automate manual tasks lets you accomplish more in less time, freeing up valuable staff time to focus on strategic and creative thinking. You want to work with technology partners that can help you customize tools to meet the needs of your business and facilitate integration. Remember that innovation can come from anywhere in your business so keep your automation goals broad. Here's how some small businesses have found solutions that make an impact:

Automate financial operations: Using technology to eliminate manual activities, such as invoicing, bill payments and financial reporting, helps you streamline operations and reduce human error. It also helps you get back to focusing on what matters to you, your business. Finding a solution that pre-populates invoice information can save business owners, on average, 50% of time on bill pay alone. One of BILL’s customers, Ascent Respiratory Care, a home health care provider that helps patients with respiratory issues, eliminated writing paper checks entirely. “We do not write checks anymore. I would say about 95% of what we do is all paid out via BILL, whether it's a hard copy check or an electronic payment,” said Ascent Respiratory Care Senior Business Development Associate Heather Thompson.

Use data analysis to uncover business insights more easily: Solutions that bring efficiency and optimization to your business can provide valuable analytics that can uncover insights to fuel innovation, inform your decision-making and identify areas for improvement. Golf Genius has seen firsthand how financial analytics has provided better control, visibility and efficiency. “I believe we’re saving thousands of dollars a quarter as a result of real-time budget tracking. Before [BILL], people would ask where they were against their budgets, and now we know,” says Golf Genius CFO, Lou Lombardo.

By harnessing technology to optimize key foundational parts of your business operations, you can achieve cost savings and efficiency gains that contribute to your overall business innovation. For example, BILL’s Financial Operations Platform for SMBs allows businesses to manage and optimize their cash flow all on one platform, delivering the most comprehensive suite of capabilities for SMBs.

4. Don't be afraid to fail forward

Innovation is inherently risky, and not every idea will yield immediate success. However, the more efficient and automated some functions or processes are, the more a small business can embrace a culture of "failing forward," where failure is viewed as a learning opportunity rather than a setback. It will help employees have the space and time to be more creative or innovative. Here's how to do it:

Encourage experimentation: As product leaders, oftentimes we tell our peers: “If experiments aren't failing often, then you are not experimenting enough”. Encourage your team to experiment with new ideas and approaches, even if they come with a degree of uncertainty. Build in time to test-run the idea, with an evaluation checkpoint, before implementing it system-wide.

Iterate and refine: After an experiment, assess what worked and what didn't. Use these insights to refine your approach and try again.

Acknowledge lessons learned from failures: Celebrate the lessons learned from failures. This will encourage a culture where innovation is valued regardless of the outcome, giving business owners a competitive edge and supporting employee retention.

Remember that many groundbreaking innovations have emerged from a series of trial and error. By embracing failure as a stepping stone to success, your small business can take actionable steps toward building a culture that promotes creative thinking, and develop innovative solutions without a big investment.

In conclusion, innovation isn't solely reserved for large corporations with deep pockets. Small businesses can thrive in today's competitive landscape by adopting an innovation mindset, listening to customers, harnessing technology to optimize and adapt to market shifts, and being unafraid to experiment and learn from failures. With the right strategies and a commitment to cost-effective innovation, your small business can stay ahead of the curve.

At BILL, we’re 100% focused on helping SMBs to get more control, visibility, and efficiency in their business. Automating financial operations can be a game changer for your business, saving valuable team time on inefficient manual processes and focusing on high-value strategic tasks instead. BILL helps businesses thrive with technology that is powerful, secure, and easy to integrate and use. To learn more, visit Bill.com/Resources.

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Level up your life in 2024 with must-have tech items https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/41483/ 235141041483 Fri, 12 Jan 2024 12:01:00 GMT (BPT) - Technology has revolutionized how we live, work and entertain ourselves, and tech makers continue to push the envelope year after year. At this year's Consumer Electronics Show (CES), innovators like Anker will showcase the latest tech items that can enhance daily life. Whether you're a tech head or someone looking for an upgrade, check out these essential tech items for 2024.

1. Charging stations and power banks

Stay connected whenever and wherever you may be with Anker's updated line of MagGo charging stations and power banks to ensure you can keep all your tech charged at home or on the go!

The new MagGo 15W wireless charging devices can juice up your iPhone, watch and earbuds twice as fast as standard 7.5W chargers. There is a design for every use case, including a compact, foldable design perfect for travelers.

Other models include a stand and multiple pad designs that allow you to conveniently use and charge your devices whether relaxing in bed or working at your desk.

Additionally, these new MagGo products are Qi2-certified, meaning they've been tested by the Wireless Power Consortium for safe, high-power wireless charging. With a Qi2-certified charging device, you don't have to worry about your tech overheating or transferring heat to nearby products while charging. They're also Apple MagSafe-compatible.

For on-the-go charging, the Anker MagGo power banks are a must-have. Available in a 6,600 and 10K mAh capacity, these power banks snap magnetically and securely to the back of your iPhone, letting you charge faster without missing a beat. They're also available in five attractive colors.

2. Robot vacuum

Keeping your living area clean doesn't have to be a chore. Spend less time cleaning and more time relaxing at home by purchasing a smart vacuum.

The eufy Clean X10 Pro Omni smart vacuum cleaner and mop will keep your home clean with minimal fuss. Strong suction easily picks up debris, hair, dust and powder, leaving carpets and floors clean after just one pass without harming carpet fibers.

Using AI technology, it can identify and avoid over 100 obstacles — including food, pet waste, dander, grass clippings, toys and more.

The X10 Pro Omni tackles even the most stubborn stains in hard-to-clean areas. With its Pro-Detangling Comb, it can help suck up pet hair from the carpet and prevent the hair from getting trapped, ensuring a hands-free and worry-free cleaning experience without interruptions.

Using the eufy Clean app, you can customize the cleaning schedule to your needs. Choose vacuum, mop or dual mode for whole-house or spot cleaning. It's perfect for scheduled cleanings after cooking or when the kids come home from school!

3. Portable power station

Do you need a high-capacity power station for your home? If so, consider the Anker SOLIX F3800 Portable Power Station, a compact but highly versatile power source designed with convenience in mind. With a cost-effective price point, the F3800 is not only a backup battery but also an accessible home power solution. Or, just plug the power station into your RV's power inlet to run all your appliances at the same time. Best of all, the power station's suitcase design features a handle and large wheels for easy transportation.

You can also use the power station to charge your EV without additional grounding accessories for convenient charging at home, even when the power is out. Quiet and sustainable, you can use this portable power station for up to 10 years or 3,000 cycles.

When you need a power station for camping, choose the Anker SOLIX C800 Plus portable power station. With three bright camp lights and a retractable pole that can turn into a hanger, tripod or selfie stick, the C800 Plus is the perfect companion to illuminate campsites and power outdoor adventures. Powerful enough to power up to 10 devices at once with a 768Wh capacity and up to 1600-watt output, you can confidently charge an iPhone 13 up to 49 times, use a kettle or coffee maker for 42 minutes, an electric stove for 50 minutes or a CPAP machine for 15 hours.

4. Portable Bluetooth speaker

Whether chilling by the pool, hiking or hosting a small gathering, portable Bluetooth speakers are indispensable. When picking a speaker, choose a rugged model like the Soundcore Boom 2. Enjoy peace of mind when listening outdoors, knowing the floatable, waterproof design will keep your tech safe.

The Bluetooth speaker doesn't just play music but also elevates your listening experience. Soundcore's advanced BassUp technology delivers mind-blowing, deep bass, while the 60W audio output crafted with 2 tweeters and 1 woofer provides loud and clear sound for dynamic and immersive listening.

Take your music session to the next level using the speaker's dual LED lights that enhance your audio journey with built-in lights synchronized to the rhythm. Paired with an impressive 17-hour playtime, you and your friends can enjoy uninterrupted music sessions and have your own backyard music festival.

5. Speakerphone

Make sure everyone can clearly hear your brilliant ideas and insights with a high-quality speakerphone. Pick a model like the AnkerWork S600 Qi2-certified Speakerphone. Using dual VoicePrint recognition, it can pick up your voice, even in the noisiest environments.

Don't worry about your dog barking in the background. AI noise-canceling technology accurately identifies over 3,300 noises to eliminate background noise. Paired with four high-fidelity microphones, your voice will come through crystal clear during conference calls and virtual meetings.

You won't have an issue hearing others on your conference calls. The 360-degree sound radiators provide clear sounds on calls and strong bass, so you can crank your favorite tunes while working.

Running out of charge during a call will be a problem of the past. The 15W Qi 2.0 magnetic fast charging provides efficient, worry-free wireless charging to keep you powered even during the longest meetings.

Whether at home, work or on the go, these cutting-edge tech products can significantly enhance your everyday life. To learn about these and other tech items that provide convenience and enjoyment, visit https://www.anker.com/.

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Top Tips from McAfee to Safeguard Your New Tech https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42668/ 241861042668 Fri, 12 Jan 2024 08:01:00 GMT (BPT) - Each January, the world’s eyes turn to the cutting-edge technology that debuts at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES). Whether it’s striking, strange, or just plain cool, this new tech has the potential to change the way we live.

Much of this new technology is connected to the internet, which means there is also potential for cybercrooks to cook up new scams. To help ensure that your privacy, identity, and personal information is safe, McAfee, a global leader in online protection, has broken down the top tips for securing devices and safeguarding privacy. By using this guidance, you can pair progress with protection and stay safe, confident, and engaged while enjoying the benefits of new technology.

Bolster the basics for a strong digital defense

It is possible to protect most technology by establishing a strong digital security foundation. Whether it’s a new Wi-Fi router, smartwatch, or even a connected fridge, creating strong, unique passwords is key. These passwords should contain a minimum of 12 characters and include a mix of numbers, symbols, and upper and lower-case letters.

It is also critical to enable multi-factor authentication — functionality that uses a combination of a username, password, and a security code sent to a secondary device — whenever possible. Additionally, you should regularly update apps and devices to patch security vulnerabilities and use password-protected internet routers that offer encryption for more robust online protection.

Take time to read through manufacturers’ track records for security issues, along with reviews from trusted sources. Also, prioritize understanding privacy policies around data collection and sharing so you know how your information may be shared and used and can make educated purchase decisions.

Finally, it is important to invest in reliable online protection software to secure phones, tablets, computers, and smart devices, and ensure data privacy.

Make smart moves to secure a smart home

Anything that gets connected should also be protected, so it’s crucial to set up your smart home for security success by making sure every connected device is protected.

First, you should change the default username and password on all smart home devices. Next, because the point of online connection is critical to the security of any technology, you should consider a modern router with advanced security features. Further, creating an additional network on your router allows you to keep your computers and smartphones separate from smart home devices. This is important because if a smart home device is compromised, a hacker will still have difficulty accessing other connected devices.

Fortify your fitness and wearable tech

Many wearables collect information about your vital signs, sleep patterns, and whereabouts to make recommendations to improve your health and fitness, so it’s important to make sure the devices are also fit to secure your personal information. You can begin by adjusting privacy settings on your devices before you use them, and carefully consider options related to location tracking, social media sharing, and data shared online.

Notably, when upgrading to a new device, be sure to wipe your old device clean by restoring it to factory settings and deleting any online accounts you’ll no longer use.

Guard your mobile gadgets

It is also important to think beyond the screen to safeguard your device. Stick to official app stores, like Google Play or Apple’s App Store, versus third-party sites. Google and Apple conduct rigorous security vetting for the apps you’ll find on their stores, and both companies quickly remove malicious apps from their stores when issues are discovered.

Additionally, review permissions to be sure they align with the app’s intended use and avoid those that request excessive access.

By following these top tips, you can fortify the latest technology against potential threats and enjoy a safer digital experience.

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Level up your New Year's resolutions with the help of smart appliances https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/41074/ 232951041074 Wed, 03 Jan 2024 08:01:00 GMT (BPT) - Ready to start 2024 and improve your home life? You don’t have to do it alone. This year, achieve your New Year’s resolutions with a little help from smart appliances and apps.

Smart appliances on their own make everyday tasks incredibly convenient and simple, removing barriers that would otherwise make staying committed to your home-life resolutions a challenge. However, you can take it to the next level by using their integrated smart apps.

LG Electronics USA wants to help you live a smarter and easier life with its smart appliances and, more importantly, its integrated app. The ThinQ app is a smart hub managing all smart devices and appliances, ensuring they run smoothly and keeping you connected and in control. Not convinced? Check out three resolutions you can achieve with ease this year with a little help from smart appliances and a hassle-free app.

1. Become a home chef with ease

If you want to become a better cook so you can eat healthier, impress friends and family and explore your culinary creativity, you can achieve this goal with ease with the help of some smart technology. Even if you have limited culinary experience, smart appliances and connected apps can help you learn new recipes and control your oven, range or refrigerator with convenience.

For example, using LG’s ThinQ app, you can access recipes, order ingredients and send instructions to your smart oven or microwave. Once you know what you want to make and how to make it, use ThinQ to remotely start the proof function and bake breads, pastries and other delicacies like a pro.

The app also lets you customize time and temperature controls so you can achieve a chef-level dish every time. When you inevitably have to clean your oven after all your cooking adventures, simply remote start the EasyClean cycle.

2. Take on chores like a champ

Do you have trouble staying on top of household tasks? Smart dishwashers, washers, and dryers can make it easy to become a chore champion.

If you’ve handwashed a few dishes and just need to dry them, don’t pick up the dish towel. Use the ThinQ app and set your dishwasher for a dry-only cycle. Did you load the dishwasher but forget to start it? No worries. Just use your phone to remotely start and stop the dishwasher and check its progress. Best of all, you can use the app to download customized wash cycles for pots and pans, glassware and even pet bowls.

Don’t dread doing laundry. With a smart washer and dryer, you can care for your clothes with peace of mind. Using the ThinQ app, you can download specialized cycles and laundry settings, so you don’t have to worry about damaging your delicates. The smart technology also incrementally dispenses detergent for better cleaning. Don’t forget to use ThinQ to pair your LG washer and dryer so they can communicate over Wi-Fi and select appropriate settings based on the most recent load.

3. Handle home maintenance like a pro

Home maintenance is probably the last thing on your mind. When you’re busy getting the kids off to school, running out the door to work and staying on top of dinner, shopping and hosting loved ones, it’s easy for home maintenance tasks to slip your mind. However, a smart app and paired devices can help you stay organized and on top of tasks like a pro.

For example, the ThinQ app sends alerts to your smartphone to stay ahead of potential appliance issues and offers real-time diagnosis. Armed with this knowledge, you create proactive solutions and avoid preventable repairs and service calls.

When you link the ThinQ app with an Alexa-enabled device, you’ll know when you’re running low on laundry or dish detergent, fabric softener and rinse aid. Alexa will also automatically place an Amazon order for these products, so you don’t have to make an extra trip to the store.

Don’t worry about keeping track of your water filter. ThinQ monitors the water filter, so you’ll know when it needs replacing. Just like with your detergent items, Alexa can automatically reorder water filters through Amazon based on your usage.

A new year means a new you. This year, let LG help you become a better homemaker so you can spend more time and energy with those you love. To learn more, visit LG ThinQ | LG USA.

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Eliminate cabin fever with top technology for home entertainment https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/40828/ 231401040828 Fri, 29 Dec 2023 16:37:00 GMT (BPT) - Every season comes and goes, but winter — with its cold temps and chilly breezes — can seem to drag on longer than others. Rather than loathe being stuck indoors, you’ll love staying warm and cozy as you stream favorite TV and movies with new technology that transforms your entertainment experience.

Just imagine with a touch of a button you can find that one show you are looking for without searching through multiple streaming services. Picture the joy of never having to download streaming apps again. Dream of the possibilities of watching beloved classics and curated collections based on your interests — so you’re never left out in the cold with nothing inspiring to watch.

This is entertainment reality with the Xumo Stream Box, available at no additional monthly cost to Xfinity Internet customers. This unique 4K streaming device has numerous features for the ultimate in-home entertainment in 2024. Here are three key features that are helping people cure their cabin fever and enjoy the most of the long winter months.

Personalized, instant app access

Xumo Stream Box comes preloaded with hundreds of streaming apps, so there’s no need for you to download before you watch. Just say the name of the streaming service into the voice remote to launch it. You can even build personalized viewing lists for every member of the family with “My List.” With just one click, add any show or movie available to a specific list, giving your family a quick way to find what to watch next.

Simplified search across apps

All you have to do is say a show name into the voice remote and the system will search across available apps to find it quickly for you. Xumo Stream Box uses both AI-driven personalization and an in-house editorial team to surface content recommendations, helping you find something to watch without having to jump in and out of apps.

View live channels quickly

With live TV at startup and many live channels to choose from, Xfinity Stream makes it easy to find something to watch. Plus, new features like the “currently playing” tile that shows what’s airing on the last channel you watched, and the built-in channel guide make browsing channels a seamless part of the entertainment experience.

Learn more at Xfinity.com/xumo. No matter the type of winter weather you experience, you’ll be set with endless entertainment possibilities. Snuggle into a blanket, grab your favorite treat, and you’ll be ready to cozy up and enjoy the most of this chilly season from the comfort of your own couch.

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A national home builder is helping build a better tomorrow by democratizing energy efficiency and scaling sustainability https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/41028/ 232741041028 Thu, 28 Dec 2023 07:01:00 GMT (BPT) - From building homes, offices and all other private and public structures used every day, the construction industry touches the lives of everyone. Given the impact and scale of construction, it's essential that the industry find ways to reduce its environmental impact and embrace sustainable practices.

According to the World Green Building Council®, buildings are responsible for 39% of global energy-related carbon emissions. About 28% comes from operational emissions — including the energy used to heat, cool and power buildings — and the remaining 11% from materials and construction.

However, the industry is changing. One company that is committed to its long-term vision for sustainability is Clayton®, a national builder of attainable, single-family homes.

The homebuilder recognizes that it has a responsibility to carefully manage and minimize the environmental impact of the homes they sell, as well as their operations. Through homebuilding innovations, waste reduction, resource conservation efforts and philanthropic partnerships, Clayton aims to meet communities' needs today while opening doors to a better life for generations to come.

"Focusing on sustainability is the right thing to do for the communities we serve and the world we live in. As builders committed to attainability, we know that every dollar counts, which is why we tackle waste in all of its forms — from materials and resources to the efficiency of our build process. We also recognize our unique opportunity to improve access to home energy efficiency, something our homeowners want and need," said William Jenkins, Senior Director of Environment and Sustainability at Clayton. "Ultimately, these efforts help us to fulfill our vision to develop housing innovations that improve lives and build a better tomorrow."

Building with sustainability in mind

Clayton builds homes that can help homeowners save money on utilities while also conserving the planet's natural resources. Clayton's eBuilt® homes are built to the U.S. Department of Energy's Zero Energy Ready Home (DOE ZERH) specifications. These homes can save homeowners up to 50% on annual energy bills1 and, when paired with a renewable energy system, can offset most or all the home's annual energy use.

Beyond designing and building homes with energy-efficient features, Clayton is working to conserve resources and recycle construction materials. Clayton purchases materials in bulk and works with its suppliers to save on packaging and shipping of items like lumber, siding and sheetrock. These materials are often ordered pre-cut to simplify their use in construction and drive down scrap. The builder's ISO® 14001 program2 focuses on reuse and recycling to ensure excess materials don't go to waste. In 2022 alone, Clayton diverted over 51,000 tons of waste from the landfill.

Targeting carbon emissions

Clayton is committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions in its operations, specifically targeting the emissions from its consumption of fuel and purchased electricity. To accomplish this, the company is modernizing its fleet with hybrid vehicles and electric forklifts.

At Clayton Sulphur Springs, the homebuilder has installed a 200-kilowatt solar carport system. This system produces enough renewable energy to account for 30%-40% of its electricity usage. Clayton will continue to expand its reliance on renewable energy in its operations and install several solar energy systems at home building facilities in East Tennessee, Arizona and at Clayton's Home Office.

Developing water-saving innovations

Water is becoming scarce in many regions of the world, especially in the American Southwest. The Southwest is considered one of the more sensitive regions in the world for increased risk of drought caused by environmental changes. In New Mexico, droughts are expected to worsen in the next half century, making water an even more precious resource.

When building homes, drywall and painting tools must be cleaned to ensure home construction quality. Previously, a building facility in New Mexico used fresh water each time they cleaned the drywall mud and paint tools. However, to help combat drought, Clayton Albuquerque has developed an in-house process to filter the water used to clean the tools three times before it is directed to the municipal wastewater system. This innovation saves over 100,000 gallons of water a year!

Contributing to a sustainable future through partnerships

Clayton is committed to giving back to the communities in which it operates. One way it does so is by partnering with the Arbor Day Foundation®, the largest nonprofit membership organization dedicated to planting native tree species in established forests.

Planting trees helps to restore critical forest ecosystems and is an effective way to help combat climate change. Large-scale reforestation projects are planned in strategic locations, leading to cleaner water, improved air quality and increased biodiversity in their surrounding regions.

This year alone, Clayton will plant 1.19 million trees in forests of great need in 11 different states across the United States. By 2025, Clayton and the Arbor Day Foundation will have planted over 4.47 million trees since their partnership began in 2022.

Drive change to build a better tomorrow

Clayton seeks to evolve the housing industry by driving change through sustainability and innovation. With each home they build, they strive to create a reality where sustainable living isn't just a dream — it's simply the way we live.

To learn more about how Clayton is working toward its sustainability goals, visit https://www.claytonhomes.com/sustainability/.

1. Energy.gov ZERH guidelines

2. ISO is the registered trademark of the International Organization for Standardization

All trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

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3 sneaky reasons you have trouble saving and how to start saving more https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/41236/ 233481041236 Fri, 22 Dec 2023 09:01:00 GMT (BPT) - Are you struggling to save more and spend within your means? You’re not alone. According to Fidelity’s Money Mindset study, 59% of young Americans cringe at the thought of checking their bank account balance and 57% dread budgeting. While it’s understandable to avoid tasks that cause stress, neglecting your finances now will only add up to more money worries in the long run.

If you’re ready to start spending smarter, save more and improve your financial health, you may be interested to know what could be keeping you from having a better relationship with money. Check out these three sneaky reasons why you might be having trouble saving money and how you can take steps to overcome them.

1. You avoid thinking about your money

Sometimes, when something causes us stress, we avoid thinking about it altogether. Finances are no different. In fact, Fidelity’s Money Mindset study found 1-in-3 young Americans say they would rather deep clean their bathroom than check their savings account. While not monitoring your money might provide momentary relief, in the long term, it can make your financial situation worse. You might forget about automated and recurring payments or overspend, and not realize until it’s too late to save.

Instead, be proactive about your financial health. Getting your finances in check can sound scary, but it doesn’t have to be! Sit down and think about how you’re spending your money and what changes you’d like to make.

One great tool to use is automation. Automatically transferring a certain amount into your savings every month can be a great option to make sure you’re making progress toward your goals without daily monitoring and stress. There are plenty of apps that can help you get started with this process. For example, Fidelity Bloom® is a free financial app that offers automated routines to help you grow your savings – like recurring transfers to your Bloom Save account.

In addition to automating savings routines, built-in incentives and recurring transfers, the app can also help expand your financial knowledge. In-app prompts and friendly nudges provide actionable steps you can take every day to help you navigate day-to-day finances and address the underlying causes that might be making it difficult for you to save.

2. FOMO and societal pressures keep you spending

The fear of missing out (FOMO) might also lead to missing out on savings. Many young Americans report feeling pressure to keep up with their peers which can lead to spending more money than they originally intended and impact their ability to save. Fidelity found that 61% of young Americans admit they spend more money than they intend because of FOMO.

This doesn’t mean you have to skip every concert and vacation but try to limit your spending to the activities you really want to attend and know you can afford. Soon enough, you may find that you’re able to both spend on the activities you really want and save for your future.

With Fidelity Bloom®, you get access to two accounts: one “save” account that helps you build your savings and a “spend” account that helps you track everyday spending. Having these two separate accounts, can help you be sure you’re only spending the amount you’ve set aside for spending, instead of tapping into your savings.

3. You think you can wait to save

Saving for the future can seem like a lofty, far-off goal, especially when there is so much to spend on now. In fact, 76% of young Americans believe that to save money, they’d have to cut back on spending on things that bring them joy. But the earlier you prioritize saving, the less stressed and better prepared you’ll be for the future.

A good first step is to create an emergency savings account, so you’re prepared for any unexpected expenses that come up or potential job loss. Nearly half of young Americans (49%) say they wouldn’t be able to cover an unexpected expense of $1,000. Fidelity suggests saving at least six months’ worth of essential expenses in an emergency fund.

Fidelity Bloom® can also help you with your savings goals. It’s the only app that matches up to 10% on your Save account each year up to $300. You can also save while spending on everyday purchases with debit card rewards and customizable round-ups into your Save account.

Changing your saving and spending habits can be difficult, but becoming aware of them is the first step to changing them. To help you with your saving and spending journey, download the Fidelity Bloom® app so you can take an honest look at your finances and start saving today. To learn more, visit Fidelity.com/Mobile/Bloom.

About Fidelity Investments

Fidelity’s mission is to strengthen the financial well-being of our customers and deliver better outcomes for the clients and businesses we serve. With assets under administration of $11.5 trillion, including discretionary assets of $4.4 trillion as of September 30, 2023, we focus on meeting the unique needs of a diverse set of customers. Privately held for 77 years, Fidelity employs more than 73,000 associates who are focused on the long-term success of our customers. For more information about Fidelity Investments, visit https://www.fidelity.com/about-fidelity/ourcompany.

About Fidelity’s 2022 Money Mindset Study

The 2022 Money Mindset Study presents the findings of an online sample of 2,010 adults 18 years of age and older with a checking or savings account, which represents 98% of American adults, with a focus on the 1,008 respondents 18-44 years old. Interviewing for this CARAVAN omnibus survey was conducted April 15-20, 2022, by ENGINE INSIGHTS, which is not affiliated with Fidelity Investments. The results of this survey may not be representative of all respondents meeting the same criteria as those surveyed for this study.

Important Information

The Fidelity Bloom App is designed to help with your saving and spending behaviors through your Save and Spend accounts, which are brokerage accounts covered by SIPC. They are not bank accounts and therefore are not covered by FDIC insurance.

Keep in mind that investing involves risk. The value of your investment will fluctuate over time, and you may gain or lose money.

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Fidelity Brokerage Services LLC, Member NYSE, SIPC, 900 Salem Street, Smithfield, RI 02917

1124467.1.0

©2023 FMR LLC. All rights reserved.

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Smart holiday shopping tips to prevent big bills in January https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42463/ 240911042463 Thu, 21 Dec 2023 09:01:00 GMT (BPT) - The holiday season is all about celebrating with family and friends. But unfortunately, making the most of this festive time of year can also come at a cost. That becomes clear in January when the credit card bills show up — including bills for higher phone plan usage.

To help avoid the pain of post-holiday sticker shock, finance expert and author of New York Times bestseller "Zero Debt: The Ultimate Guide to Financial Freedom" Lynnette Khalfani-Cox — also known as The Money Coach — offers her money-saving tips for enjoying the holidays without breaking the bank.

"Shopping smart now makes all the difference when January rolls around," says Khalfani-Cox. "So make the most of the deals and offers that might only be available around the holidays, and your bank account will thank you!"

Here are her tips for making sure your holiday mood doesn't come to a halt when the January bills come due.

1. Make your list — and check it twice

Setting a budget for holiday shopping and making a list of who you're shopping for — then sticking to it — is the smartest way to be sure you don't end up with unexpectedly high bills next month. Where possible, consider going in for group gifts, or choose gift cards for picky gift recipients so you can control exactly what you're spending — and that they'll love what they get.

"Keep a running list of what you're spending, whether you shop online or in person, to stay on track," advises Khalfani-Cox. "It's all too easy to overspend when you're not writing down every purchase."

2. Dive into deals to make the holidays bright

Comparison shopping is the name of the game when it comes to finding the best deals for everything from gifts to holiday hosting must-haves. And that doesn't stop at items to check off your holiday list. While you're comparison gift shopping, check out the latest discounted deals from phone providers like Straight Talk Wireless, a no-contract carrier from Verizon. In fact, Straight Talk is now offering 6 months of free service with the purchase of the Samsung Galaxy A13 and one month of the Straight Talk Silver. This deal can help you stay connected with far-flung family and friends throughout the holiday season and beyond, for a lot less. Plus, it’s available exclusively through Walmart, so you can get all your other holiday shopping done, too.

3. Maximize rewards and loyalty programs — smartly

If you frequently shop from one store or brand, or if your credit cards offer cash back rewards for purchases, first make sure it's something you really want to buy before signing on. Loyalty programs are great and can save you money, as long as it's something you know will make a great gift for someone on your list.

"Choose programs and memberships that don't cost anything up front," Khalfani-Cox advises, "so you'll be a lot merrier when you take advantage of the savings!"

4. Always read the fine print

No matter what you're purchasing — but especially for high-priced or tech products — look out for hidden fees or costs. Read carefully to know what you're signing up for, whether that's a protection plan or autopay you may not need or want, and what the store's policies are.

"When you're spending your hard-earned money, you'll want to be sure you know the store's policies for returning items, or if they offer a price-match guarantee if you see the same item for less somewhere else," says Khalfani-Cox.

5. Gift experiences or home-made items

If you're looking to save money, consider gifting some people on your list a special homemade lunch at your home, a visit to a favorite local attraction together or home-baked goodies. For some gift recipients who are tough to shop for — or who don’t really want more "things" — a shared experience or heart-felt homemade present can be much more meaningful.

"The joy of the holiday season shouldn't come with mounting bills," Khalfani-Cox says. "With these tips, you can celebrate the spirit of the season with your loved ones — with less financial stress."

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Military families' financial challenges are unique. Here are tips to help. https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/41109/ 233021041109 Wed, 20 Dec 2023 05:01:00 GMT (BPT) - Any family can experience financial hurdles, but military families may face unique challenges that set them apart from their civilian counterparts. From being remotely stationed with limited access to good paying jobs and childcare, to frequent moves that can make establishing consistent savings habits hard, military families' everyday realities can make financial security difficult in both the near and long-term.

Veteran Jeff Felton, a former Air Force Officer and Investment Advisory Representative at Prudential Financial, understands personally the financial hurdles military families can face. When he was exiting military service and deciding on a civilian career, Felton says he saw becoming a financial advisor as an opportunity to help himself and others gain financial confidence.

To help military families build financial habits today that will aid in securing their future, Felton offers the following tips.

1. Develop a savings habit, no matter how much

A common piece of financial advice is to save 10%-30% of your paycheck, but for families on a tight or single-earner budget, that may not be feasible. Felton says that shouldn’t be discouraging and suggests developing a simple savings habit. After ensuring family necessities are covered, set aside as much as you can each paycheck to begin building an emergency fund. The bigger the fund, the better (3 to 6 months' worth of expenses is ideal), but any amount can serve as a buffer against borrowing or going into debt when unplanned events, such as an emergency car repair or appliance replacement, happen.

2. Start saving for retirement today and be flexible

"If you haven’t already, it’s critical that you start saving now," says Felton. Working military spouses can have funds moved to a retirement account via payroll deduction and check to see if their employer offers a matching contribution benefit. Aim to have 10% of your salary allocated to your retirement savings account. If that’s not immediately possible for your family, start small and increase your contribution as you receive pay raises.

After 20 years of service, members of the military may be able to switch to a more self-directed savings plan, such as a Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), a retirement savings and investment account for federal employees and uniformed service members. The plan offers a mutual fund option that allows participants greater investment flexibility.

3. Develop post-service skills

Plan for a future after the military by developing post-service skills for jobs with higher salaries. “The military provides many transferable skills to help you join the civilian workforce, and you can hone those skills and develop new ones by taking advantage of military educational resources such as Community College of the Air Force or American Military University,” says Felton.

To assist in covering the costs of higher education, GI Bill benefits can help military members pay for college, graduate school and training programs. Military spouses and children may also qualify for credits that can help offset training or higher education costs.

A resource for military families

Families can tap into programs for financial education and other money-smart resources. For example, Prudential Financial has partnered with Twelve Million Plus, a digital community from the company Instant Teams Marketplace, which provides a host of curated and local resources for the more than 12 million spouses of active and retired U.S. military members.

Through the partnership, Twelve Million Plus members have access to a range of resources to aid in improving their financial well-being, including the ability to connect online with an advisor and access to Prudential Stages for Retirement, the company’s online planning platform that helps people navigate more confidently through pivotal life stages.

Launched in January 2023, Prudential Stages for Retirement is a free tool that helps individuals benchmark their retirement readiness using a personalized retirement confidence score and provides access to tools that track how certain actions, like changing goals or their target retirement date, can affect their score. Twelve Million Plus members will also have access to Prudential’s financial education through online articles and videos as well as live seminars on different topics.

“Today, there are a lot more ways for military families to connect to financial tools and professional advice,” says Felton. “This partnership offers those resources in a supportive online community with people who understand each other’s challenges.”

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Car buying made easy: 5 expert tips for 2024 https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42380/ 240491042380 Tue, 19 Dec 2023 11:13:00 GMT (BPT) - Are you planning to buy a car in 2024? Now is the time to do your homework and start shopping around so you can pick a vehicle that fits your needs without hurting your wallet.

For decades, most people followed a simple formula when they were ready to purchase a new vehicle — dealership, negotiate and purchase, drive off the lot. Today, there are a myriad of options available in the ever-evolving auto landscape that can leave drivers with a lot of questions.

Chase Auto wants to simplify car shopping, whether you’re a first-time or experienced car buyer. Here are the most important aspects of car buying that you should keep in mind when buying a car in 2024.

1. Set a realistic budget

Before you begin shopping, set a budget that you can stick to. Knowing how much you can afford, especially if you plan to pay for the car over time, will help you avoid stretching your finances.

When setting your budget, don't just look at a car's sticker price. Other auto expenses, like insurance, maintenance and fuel, can quickly add up. If you need help figuring out what you can realistically afford, use online tools like Chase's Auto Loan Calculator to estimate your monthly payments. You can also use a tool like Autosave, which allows you to automate transfers from your Chase checking to Chase savings, to create a car fund for your future purchase.

2. Shop for deals

When buying a car, timing is everything. If you can, wait until the end of the month, end of the model year or end of the calendar year when dealers are trying to meet quotas or clear out inventory for new models. Your patience may help you get your ideal car at a great price.

Don't forget to look for holiday sales! Christmas, New Year's, Presidents Day, Memorial Day, July Fourth and Labor Day may yield great savings on this year's and next year's models.

Make sure you are considering multiple vehicles and shopping around at several dealerships to get the best price.

3. Take it for a spin

Once you've narrowed down the vehicles you're most excited about, schedule test drives to see how it looks and feels, and to make sure it fits your needs.

Schedule test drives of different vehicles within the same day or week so your impression of each is fresh in your memory. Keep your daily driving conditions in mind and try to simulate them during your test. For example, if you're a parent, bring a car seat to see how it fits.

After your test drive, make sure to ask about the warranties, fuel and maintenance requirements, extended test drives and the possibility of bringing the car to your own mechanic for a second opinion if buying pre-owned.

4. Weigh your financing options

Will you take out an auto loan or lease your car? Both financing options have their benefits. At the end of the day, it all comes down to which best fits your budget and lifestyle.

If you purchase your car using a loan, you don't have to worry about mileage limits, and you're free to customize the car. Once you pay it off, you own it outright. At Chase Auto, you can get pre-qualified for financing before even heading into the dealership. On the other hand, leasing typically has lower upfront costs than a loan payment. After the lease term, you can return, purchase or trade in your vehicle.

5. Consider electric

More and more major manufacturers are offering electric vehicles (EVs), so it’s a good idea to consider whether an EV fits your lifestyle. Cost, maintenance, range, and charging logistics are some key factors to think through.

Although the sticker price of an EV may be higher than that of a traditional gas vehicle, there are options to help offset the cost, such as federal and local tax incentives. Also, it typically costs less to charge your vehicle than to fill up a tank with gas[1]. It may be worth it to pay more upfront for possible long-term savings.

EVs typically require less maintenance than traditional cars. Also, EV batteries tend to be covered by 8- to 10-year warranties[2], outlasting the time most people own their cars. That said, EV tires degrade faster due to the weight of the battery, so keep that in mind when calculating the long-term costs of ownership.

Finally, consider how far you drive your car and if charging stations are nearby. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the range of an EV with a fully charged battery could be between 110 to 300 miles[3], but that number depends on the make and model as well as other factors like weather, traffic conditions and driving style. Also, when it comes to charging infrastructure, some cities and states may have more charging stations than others. Make sure to plan your trip ahead of time and map your route.

Ultimately, it is best to stay open to different options on the market. Research different vehicle options and financing programs, and make sure to shop at several dealerships so you can get a vehicle that’s a fit for you, your family and your budget in 2024.

To learn more about car shopping and financing, visit autofinance.chase.com.

JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. Member FDIC

This article is for educational purposes only and provides general auto information. The material is not intended to provide legal, tax, or financial advice or to indicate the availability or suitability of any JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. product or service. Outlooks and past performance are not guarantees of future results. Chase is not responsible for, and does not provide or endorse third party products, services or other content. For specific advice about your circumstances, you may wish to consult a qualified professional.


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The ultimate holiday wishlist: Essential appliances for every home https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/41073/ 232951041073 Tue, 19 Dec 2023 10:21:00 GMT (BPT) - Gift-giving and the holidays are practically synonymous, but you've likely forgotten to get a gift for someone special. Can you guess who? You! LG Electronics USA is here to help you pick out a present that will bring you joy during the holidays and beyond. Check out these nine appliances that will bring cheer, convenience and comfort to your daily life.

1. Smart induction slide-in electric range oven

Upgrade your cooking experience with the Smart Induction Slide-in Range with InstaView®, ProBake Convection®, Air Fry and Air Sous Vide. The all-in-one range transfers heat directly to your cookware for faster and safer heating, even cooking and precision temperature control.

Equipped with an InstaView Window, you can see inside without opening the door, keeping the heat inside where it belongs. Cleaning is a breeze with the EasyClean Oven feature that cleans the oven without chemicals or high heat in just 10 minutes!

2. Smart combination wall oven

Cook like a pro and maximize your kitchen space with the Smart Combination Wall Oven with InstaView®, True Convection, Air Fry, and Steam Sous Vide. The versatile appliance uses TurboCook and Infrared Heating™ to cook up to four times faster than other wall ovens.

You can easily monitor the internal temperature of a dish by simply inserting the built-in Temperature Probe. Once it has reached the desired temperature, the oven turns off automatically. Other features include an EasyClean Oven, Backlit LED SmoothTouch® Glass Controls and a PrintProof® Finish.

3. Smart top control dishwasher

Dishwashing will be easier than ever before with the Smart Top Control Dishwasher with 1-Hour Wash & Dry, QuadWash® Pro, TrueSteam® and Dynamic Heat Dry. The ultimate one-hour wash and dry cycle uses LG's exclusive QuadWash® Pro and Dynamic Heat Dry™ technologies.

Experience efficient, pro-level cleaning with high-pressure jets that offer 38% more cleaning power than similar models. You won't have to worry about food residue because TrueSteam® technology penetrates deeply to take care of any leftover scum, leaving 60% fewer water spots. Like all LG dishwashers, it's certified by the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF).

4. Smart French door refrigerator

Keep your food fresh and organized in the stylish 26 cu. ft. Smart InstaView® Counter-Depth MAX™ French Door Refrigerator. The standard-capacity refrigerator offers a sleek, counter-depth design with 25% more space.

The refrigerator also uses linear cooling, a three-layer air filter and the ThinQ app, which automatically connects to your smartphone to notify you about usage, maintenance suggestions and early diagnosis for repairs. Let this fridge bring convenience and style to your kitchen!

5. Smart front-load washer

Transform your laundry routine using LG's 5.0 / 4.5. cu. ft. Mega Capacity Smart Front Load Energy Star Washer with TurboWash™ 360° and AI DD® Built-In Intelligence. Its TurboWash™ 360° features five powerful jets that clean big loads in just under 30 minutes. Also, you can clean 18 loads with one easy fill of detergent.

Built-in AI technology gets smarter with every wash, taking the guesswork out of laundry. Meanwhile, Smart Pairing™ can tell the dryer to select a compatible drying cycle. Say goodbye to allergens. The washer reduces dust, pollen and pet dander in fabrics by more than 95% and is certified asthma and allergy friendly by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA). Even if you don't enjoy laundry, you'll be thankful for how easy this washer makes this necessary household chore.

6. Single-battery cordless stick vacuum

Are you ready for hassle-free cleaning? LG's CordZero™ Cordless Stick Vacuum Single Battery should be your go-to appliance this season. The LG Smart Inverter Motor™ offers powerful suction, backed by a 10-year limited warranty for lasting peace of mind. With an 80-minute runtime, a portable charging stand and easy maintenance thanks to the ThinQ App, you'll easily handle everyday cleanups.

7. All-in-one cordless stick vacuum/mop

Take cleaning to the next level with the CordZero™ All in One Auto Empty Cordless Stick Vacuum with Auto Empty & Power Mop. The appliance comes with a vacuum to wet mop technology so you can clean any surface.

The stick vacuum quickly transforms into a hand vacuum with a telescopic wand. When you're done, dock the appliance and watch as the docking tower cleans it of dust and debris. Kompressor technology easily compresses dirt and dust with 2.4 times more bin capacity. Comes with two batteries, so you can tackle long cleaning projects.

8. Smart steam closet

Freshen your wardrobe with the gentle power of steam using the LG Styler® Smart Wi-Fi Enabled Steam Closet with TrueSteam® Technology and Exclusive Moving Hangers. Its TrueSteam® technology lets you care for hard-to-wash items without chemicals, so you can continue to wear them again and again with little to no hassle.

Certified by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA), the steam closet helps remove airborne allergens while deodorizing and freshening items. The innovative appliance is ThinQ compatible, sending proactive alerts right to your smartphone to keep your steam closet running smoothly. No need to call an electrician or plumber for installation. The sleek, simple design can be plugged in anywhere!

9. Air purifier

Breathe easier with an air purifier like the LG PuriCare™ AeroTower™ Air Purifying Fan. This must-have appliance uses an Advanced True HEPA filter to capture 99.97% of fine dust and allergens as small as 0.3 microns. Smells will be a thing of the past thanks to the deodorizing filter that reduces odor and harmful organic compounds. Not to mention LG's exclusive UVnano™ LED technology kills 99.9% of bacteria on the fan blades, so you can breathe healthier air. Plus, three airflow options and a fan will keep you cool year-round.

This holiday season, don't settle for the ordinary! Invest in these essential home appliances to upgrade your everyday life with comfort, convenience and efficiency. To learn more about these and other appliances, visit LG.com/US.

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How new technology can improve your company's payroll processes https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/41235/ 233471041235 Mon, 18 Dec 2023 09:01:00 GMT (BPT) - Generative AI is in the news nearly every day, and currently the most talked about topic in the world of technology. According to Forbes, well over half (64%) of business owners think AI will help benefit relationships with their customers. If you run a small to mid-sized business, you may be wondering how the latest groundbreaking developments in AI technology could help you better manage your company. One area you may not have considered is your payroll system.

While you may know how time-consuming certain payroll tasks can be, it may not be clear to you how AI — specifically generative AI — could streamline these processes. Using AI could actually save time and money while improving the experience both for you or your staff who manage payroll, and the employees who rely on it.

What is generative AI?

This widely used subset of AI uses algorithms to produce new content, data or outputs autonomously, and can be "taught" how to automate a variety of complex systems. Generative AI is "trained" by being exposed to large datasets of existing examples. The AI model then analyzes data to identify patterns, correlations and structures.

Once trained, Generative AI uses these patterns to create original content while maintaining consistency with what it learned. Common generative AI examples include writing assistance, chatbots/online agents — and payroll processing.

AI-powered chat-based assistants are one versatile tool that can engage with customers and streamline interactions. GenAI-powered chatbots can comprehend and respond to customer questions in natural language, offering real-time support and assistance while freeing up human resources for more complex tasks.

But chatbots can do much more than just answer simple customer questions. Generative AI chatbots can also streamline vital HR and administrative duties such as a company's payroll and taxes. With Roll by ADP, you can also feel confident that there are guardrails in place to ensure safe interactions between users and their Gen AI features. Insights are drawn from ADP's deep knowledge database, so small business owners can seek personalized guidance on managing and growing their business through an intuitive, chat-based conversation right from Roll.

Here are a few ways automating payroll processes using AI can improve your business.

Ease of use for payroll admins

Which would you or your payroll administrator prefer: spending hours on spreadsheet formulas and manual calculations, or running payroll in under a minute?

If you think the latter, Roll by ADP offers AI-powered payroll solutions that let you run payroll from your pocket on any device, whenever it fits into your busy day. All you have to do is type the word "payroll" into Roll's payroll app for small business, and it will take you through the rest.

Simple user interface to answer employee questions

No matter the size of your business, employees always have questions about their pay, such as, "When is the next payday?" "Can I make changes to my withholding?" "How do I see when I'm getting a deposit?" "When was I last paid?" or "When will the money transfer into my account?" Using the AI-powered app makes it simple for employees to get these kinds of questions answered quickly, 24/7/365.

You or your payroll admin may also have questions, including: "How much did I pay employees in 2022?" "What information do you need for a new employee?" "Can I edit a payment I submitted?" or "How can I check the account that was set up for deposit?"

These and many more questions from employees and those running payroll can easily and quickly be answered using the Roll app.

Accurate processes — from payroll processing to compliance

Roll's powerful solutions are built on the foundation that innovation should simplify business operations. Their AI-powered payroll solutions integrate cutting-edge technology that doesn't just transform the way you pay your team — it changes the way your business thrives. Features include:

  • Automated payroll processing that swiftly calculates salaries, taxes and deductions.
  • Predictive insights allowing you to address potential issues before they snowball into bigger problems.
  • Personalized employee experiences that enhance transparency and trust.
  • Improved operational efficiency thanks to reduced administrative overheads.
  • Accurate compliance in line with ever-evolving regulations, drawn from ADP's deep knowledge database.

This payroll app is designed to be easy and seamless, so business owners can run payroll by just saying something like "Run my payroll."

"Roll is designed with a simple conversational user interface that's very intuitive, so you can run your payroll by just chatting with the app," said Roberto Masiero, senior vice president of Innovation at ADP. "GenAI came as a transformative technology that can make our products better, so every single area of ADP is being rethought. Everybody now has access to this ground-breaking technology."

Ready to make your payroll system easier to run? Sign up for a free trial today at RollByADP.com.

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The produce aisle: A tour of innovation https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/41434/ 234741041434 Sun, 17 Dec 2023 23:01:00 GMT (BPT) - There was a time when a grocery store in Canada didn’t have blueberries in December. There was also a time before bagged salads and a dozen varieties of apples were available in a single store. The entire Fresh produce supply chain has been dedicated to innovation at every point, especially at the consumer level — the grocery store. Consumers have seen it.

While we’re used to hearing about innovation in traditional tech spaces like our own vehicles or phones, fresh produce has made countless transformative innovations that have changed the way we all shop, cook and eat. Here are a few of those advances:

1. PLU stickers

The little stickers on your lemons, apples, bananas and avocados, with four or five numbers, are actually a powerful tool. Initially, they were invented to help checkout clerks distinguish between conventional and organic produce items, since they look so similar, and charge the correct prices. The reality is organic produce items are more expensive to grow and require more labor. So, there was a need to accurately price organic offerings and give growers an opportunity to reinvest in next year’s harvest.

The stickers unlock choices for consumers and save time in the checkout line while providing the ability to choose how many items you’d like to buy, and with more varieties to choose from. As retailers can easily tell the difference between multiple varieties of apples, for example, they can sell these varieties loose and give the consumer more options.

This sticker is not done evolving. A compostable sticker has been created and with increased demand from consumers, can be used for bulk produce.

2. Bagged salads

Not long ago, you could not get a bagged salad. These salads changed the game in a few ways. The first: Convenience. While home cooks would spend time washing, prepping, cutting and mixing multiple ingredients, the bagged salad reduced that time significantly.

The second: Freshness. The bag component meant that the freshest product reached your shelves. Simply by sealing the salad with a mix of nitrogen and oxygen (derived from air but mixed in a different ratio to suppress pathogens and molds), the bag keeps the products inside fresh and keeps any microbes out without the use of toxic chemicals.

The third: Safety. Food safety is a constant effort for everyone in the supply chain. The bag of salad means that as products move from the packaging to the store, the produce is sealed to ensure no contaminants, pathogens or spoilage microbes can get in.

3. Sustainable packaging

Without plastic packaging, most pre-made salads, fresh-cut fruits and vegetables, baby greens and berries would simply not be able to be sold in grocery stores. These products are too fragile to be transported and require packaging. The produce industry, in commitments to delivering a quality, safe product, that is also sustainable, has developed new types of packaging including compostable plastics derived from cellulose or organic acids.

Currently, there are impending restrictions on the industry to limit packaging or ban it altogether in Europe and Canada.

“Eliminating packaging may seem like a step in the right direction but taking that step before we have a viable and safe alternative will result in increased foodborne illness, wasted food, or even a lack of fresh produce in places where these bans are put in place,” said Max Teplitski, PhD, the chief science officer at the International Fresh Produce Association. “We’re focused on food safety, extending shelf life, and ensuring affordable access to the freshest and most nutritious products on earth.”

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5 Cyber Safety travel tips to keep scammer scrooges at bay https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42530/ 241301042530 Fri, 15 Dec 2023 14:11:00 GMT (BPT) - Are you planning holiday travel or looking forward to vacations in 2024? As you make your packing list and check it twice, don’t forget about cybersecurity.

While fraudsters work year-round, holiday travels provide many opportunities for them to steal personal information and dampen your holiday festivities. However, with a little preparation, you can protect yourself and your devices so you can focus on celebrating the season with your loved ones. So, as you gear up to travel over the river, through the woods, and into the skies this holiday season, use the following tips to safeguard your information.

1. Get smart before you leave home

Keep the season jolly and bright by locking cellphones, tablets, laptops and all other devices. Create strong, unique passwords that combine at least eight numbers, letters and special characters.

Don’t forget to get your devices travel-ready by updating all operating systems and apps. This helps ensure your devices are protected from any known vulnerabilities. For an added layer of security, protect your smartphones and laptops with security software like Norton 360.

2. BYOC: Bring Your Own Charger

Even something as innocuous as charging your device in a public area poses a security risk. For example, hackers may have tampered with a USB port at a public charging station, a tactic known as “juice jacking,” which allows them to access your personal information once you plug in.

This holiday, gift yourself a portable charger and a new power cord to keep your data safe. Don’t access or enter any private information and power off your devices when charging.

3. Stay clear of public Wi-Fi and opt for a VPN

Free public networks at airports, hotels, coffee shops, and even airplanes are incredibly convenient. However, they can also make you an easy target for hackers looking to dampen your holiday cheer. Your personal data and passwords — including sent emails, banking information and credit card details — will be exposed, leaving you vulnerable to identity theft.

Protect your identity and other sensitive information by using a virtual private network (VPN). A VPN allows you to hide your online activity so cybercriminals can’t see your location or activity. Also, be sure to disable automatic Wi-Fi connections to prevent your device from unknowingly connecting to unsecured networks.

4. Beat the Bluetooth bandits

Bluetooth-connected headphones, game consoles, or other devices are a great way to pass the time during long layovers, flights or road trips to grandma’s house for the holidays. However, those connections are also vulnerable to hacker attacks like BlueSnarfing, BlueJacking or eavesdropping.

When not in use, turn off Bluetooth and avoid keeping your device in discoverable mode, which makes it visible to others. Secure your connection by using PINS, passkeys or other secure pairing methods. Disable automatic pairing to prevent unauthorized devices from connecting to you.

5. Hold off on sharing

The holidays may be a season for sharing, but don’t share information that can compromise your safety. Broadcasting your travel plans or location on social media can be a risk to your physical safety. Also, sharing your vacation information exposes you to threats like identity theft, phishing and other online scams.

Wait until you return from your trip to post photos to prevent bad actors from accessing your geotag data. If you post to social media while traveling, turn off location services and avoid ‘check-ins’ that reveal your location.

Never post photos of tickets, boarding passes or passports even after you’ve returned home from your holiday adventures. If you do post travel documents, make sure you cover up the barcodes and primary info.

During the holidays and beyond, vacation with peace of mind so you can focus on the spirit of the season. Using these top five tips, you can stay cyber savvy and focus on spending time with those you love most this season.

You can make your travels even more secure by getting comprehensive Cyber Safety protection like Norton 360 with LifeLock Select, which offers antivirus, malware, ransomware, hacking protection, a password manager, privacy monitoring, parental controls, and a VPN to help keep your internet browsing private. LifeLock monitors possible threats and helps you recover should your identity be stolen. To learn more about how you can be Cyber Safe this travel season, visit US.Norton.com.

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5 energy-efficient home features guaranteed to help save you money https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/41027/ 232741041027 Wed, 13 Dec 2023 14:37:41 GMT (BPT) - Imagine this — a home that is not only good for the planet but good for your wallet. That's the allure of energy-efficient homes. Home buyers today aren't just looking for a place to hang their hats. They're seeking sustainable sanctuaries that lessen their environmental impact. But the cherry on top? The potential for significant cost savings. This is especially true when it comes to homes built to U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Zero Energy Ready Homes™ specifications. It's not just a purchase, it's a step toward a more sustainable and cost-effective future.

Last year, the average residential electricity price increased more than 14% across the country, double the rate of American inflation. As a result, more than 20 million families in the U.S. struggled to pay their utility bills. Luckily, some home builders are designing certified Zero Energy Ready Homes with energy-efficient features that can help homeowners save money.

This year, Clayton, a national builder of attainable, single-family homes, launched its newest housing initiative, eBuilt™ homes, which are built to DOE Zero Energy Ready Home specifications and come equipped with dozens of energy-efficient features. eBuilt homes can save a homeowner up to 50% in annual energy costs(1) compared to a traditional off-site built home, allowing homeowners to potentially save thousands of dollars throughout their homeownership journey. Check out five important features of eBuilt homes that can help significantly lower homeowners' utility bills and environmental impact:

1. Tight thermal envelope with additional insulation

Heating and cooling a home year-round can cost a pretty penny. In a typical residence, as much as 40% of energy consumption costs can come from heating and cooling escaping through windows, doors and walls. eBuilt homes are designed with a tight thermal envelope, allowing the home to better manage and retain its temperature.

eBuilt homes have sealed ductwork, which helps prevent drafts, moisture and unwanted noise. All windows, vents, plumbing and electrical penetrations — even the recessed lighting — are tightly sealed. Together, these features contribute to the home’s energy efficiency.

2. Low-E windows

Low emissivity (low-e) windows with argon gas are in all Clayton eBuilt homes. Low-e windows allow less heat to enter and leave your home thanks to the microscopic thin coating that manages daylight transmittance. According to the DOE, low-e windows can reduce a home's energy loss by 30%-50%.(2) Paired with the thermal envelope with the home's added insulation and insulated exterior door, homeowners can expect to significantly cut their heating and cooling bills.

3. ecobee® smart thermostat

eBuilt homes also feature ecobee smart thermostats. According to ecobee, North American customers saved 26% on their heating and cooling costs by keeping their homes at a consistent temperature and minimizing the difference between the indoor and outdoor temperatures.

4. Energy-efficient water heating

For the average American household, water heating is the second largest expense on monthly utility payments, representing up to 18% of their utility bill. With energy-efficient water heating, homeowners can take a chunk off their monthly bills without reducing their hot water use.

All of Clayton's eBuilt homes feature a Rheem hybrid water heater, which uses less energy than a 100-watt light bulb.(3) That translates to as much as $359 in energy cost savings per year!

5. ENERGY STAR®-certified appliances

Clayton's eBuilt homes feature several enhancements that are ENERGY STAR®-certified, like dishwashers and refrigerators. A typical ENERGY STAR-certified refrigerator uses less energy than a 60-watt light bulb, and freezers use 10% less energy than a new non-certified counterpart.

These are just five of the 25 enhancements that contribute to an eBuilt home's energy efficiency. In addition to the energy-efficient enhancements, eBuilt homes are built to accommodate a solar energy system if the homeowner chooses to add one after purchase. With the addition of solar panels, eBuilt homes can transform into a "net zero" home, which can offset up to 100% of its annual energy use by generating the power it consumes.

To learn more about the benefits of buying an eBuilt home, visit ClaytonHomes.com.

(1) ZERH Logo Use Guidelines (energy.gov)

(2) https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/window-types-and-technologies

(3) Compared to the energy needed to power a single 100-watt incandescent light bulb constantly for one year

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Practical presents for tech enthusiasts: 5 ideas to spark joy https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42465/ 240911042465 Wed, 13 Dec 2023 08:01:01 GMT (BPT) - Are you struggling to find the perfect gift for your tech-savvy loved one? Don’t worry. Tech-Life expert Jennifer Jolly knows the best gadgets and tech-ish tools for all the tech lovers in your life. Here are a handful of her top picks to help spark joy this holiday season.

1. Smartwatch with fitness tracker

For your health-conscious loved one who’s always on the go, Jennifer says a smartwatch with fitness-tracking features “hits the target every time.” On its own, a smartwatch is an invaluable gift your friend or family member will use every day with useful features like notifications, voice commands and music playback. However, smartwatches that track steps, heart rate, sleep patterns and sports activity can help users push their limits to reach (and even exceed) their fitness goals in the new year.

2. Smartphone

Do you have a preteen who has been begging for their first smartphone? Or has your spouse hinted that they’d like to upgrade their current model? The holidays are a great time to give your loved ones a gift that keeps on giving, and a smartphone is exactly that.

Jennifer says there are some great deals if you know where to look and cautions people of those “free” device offers that actually lock you into a two-year contract and end up costing $150-$300 more than the upfront price of the phone.

For a better option, take a look at Total by Verizon’s Holiday Deal: Now through the end of the year, people who switch to one of Total by Verizon’s Unlimited plans will get a free Samsung Galaxy A13 5G phone, for free, no strings attached. The Galaxy A13 offers quick, virtually lag-free downloading and streaming with awesome connectivity and a long-lasting battery that charges up fast. Your loved ones can use their new smartphone to capture holiday memories on video or photo using the high-res triple camera. Best of all, you can add four lines for $25 per line with Auto Pay. For more information, visit TotalbyVerizon.com.

3. Bluetooth Speaker

Audiophiles, rejoice! With a portable Bluetooth speaker, music lovers can enjoy their favorite beats while relaxing at home, out with their buddies, or anywhere they want to get their groove on. Make sure to look for dustproof and water-resistant models so your loved one doesn’t have to worry about using their new favorite gadget in the great outdoors.

4. VR glasses

For those in your life who value a truly immersive experience, virtual reality (VR) glasses are a must. You can choose from high-end options for at-home use or mobile options that work with a user’s smartphone so they can slip into the virtual world wherever, whenever. Whether they choose to explore virtual worlds, visit exotic locations or play immersive games, they can do it all with this handy gift.

5. Portable power bank

Make sure your loved ones can stay connected by gifting them a power bank. A powerful portable power bank is one of the most practical tech items you can gift a friend or family member this season. A power bank allows them to charge nearly any electronic product at home, in the office or when traveling by car, train or plane.

Jolly Holidays!

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Take Charge of Family Security: 5 Vital Actions for a Safe New Year https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42532/ 241321042532 Wed, 13 Dec 2023 07:01:00 GMT (BPT) - Amidst the many New Year’s Resolutions families set at the top of the year, creating household safety habits and ensuring preparation in an emergency should be at the top. With the CDC reporting 48% of Americans do not have first aid kits and 52% of Americans do not have copies of crucial personal documents, it's evident Americans have a lot of work to do to ensure family members are knowledgeable and have safety plans in place.

This year, to ensure safety is a top priority, check out these five important actions to help keep your family safe.

1. Create a home safety checklist

A comprehensive home safety checklist helps create a home environment that promotes security and peace of mind. The checklist should include checking smoke and CO detectors, including changing out batteries, locking windows, ensuring fire extinguishers are readily available in the kitchen and other shared spaces, and properly storing household chemicals like cleaning products. Regularly review and update this checklist.

2. Enroll in hands-free safety services

Did you know only 28.7% of U.S. households have a landline? Without a landline, it can be difficult to contact emergency services, especially for young children. However, technology can be a valuable ally. The new personal and family safety subscription Alexa Emergency Assist allows anyone in the home to use their voice to call for help, giving more peace of mind with fast access to urgent response agents 24/7 365 days a year — without having to search for your phone in the time of an emergency.

When you say, “Alexa, call for help” on an Echo device, including an Echo Kids device, you will be connected to a dedicated, professionally trained agent who can request dispatch of police, fire, or ambulance, avoiding potentially long call hold or wait times.

Agents also have access to pre-saved critical information during the call — like your home address, medications, or allergies — saving time spent collecting information on the call and allowing first responders to be thoroughly prepared when they arrive at your home. The Urgent Response agent can also stay on the line with you until help arrives.

3. Teach personal safety habits

Encourage and empower your family members to develop personal safety habits. Emphasize the importance of staying aware of surroundings, exercising caution when speaking with strangers, and practicing basic self-defense techniques.

When talking with your family about safety habits, underscore the importance of paying attention to smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms, and to never ignore them. If you subscribe to Alexa Emergency Assist, Smart Alerts allow Alexa to detect signs of trouble — like if your smoke or CO alarm is ringing — and will notify you so you can take action whether you’re at home or away.

Don’t forget to highlight the importance of trusting your instincts and foster open communication so everyone feels comfortable voicing their concerns. By learning and practicing personal safety habits, you’ll equip your loved ones (and yourself!) with the tools they need to confidently navigate changing situations.

4. Develop a trusted network

When it comes to keeping your family safe, you don’t have to do it alone. Cultivate relationships with neighbors, friends, extended family, and community members to build a strong mutual support network. A network of trusted individuals is an invaluable resource that can help provide assistance during times of need.

If you subscribe to Alexa Emergency Assist, you can quickly notify your network in case of an emergency. The Emergency Contacts feature allows you to save up to 25 family members, friends, or loved ones to be automatically notified and informed when a call is placed to Urgent Response. A reliable network not only improves your family’s safety, it also fosters a sense of belonging and community.

5. Create an emergency plan

A detailed and thorough emergency plan can make a huge difference in a crisis. Sit down with your family to discuss evacuation routes, emergency contact numbers, and designated meeting points. Talk about each family member’s responsibilities during different types of emergencies. Even young children and teens have a role to play in an emergency, just by taking care of themselves.

Once you have a plan in place, review and practice the plan so everyone is familiar with the procedures in case of an emergency. By preparing for unexpected moments, you’ll foster a sense of security and resilience.

Use these five tips to kick-start the new year with a focus on family safety. In doing so, you’re laying the foundation for a safe and secure future and creating peace of mind for you and your loved ones.

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Gifts to upgrade your kitchen this holiday season https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42485/ 240971042485 Fri, 08 Dec 2023 14:01:00 GMT (BPT) - The holiday season can be hectic, from hosting family gatherings to cooking and gift shopping. Whether you’re a first-time host or your loved ones regularly gather at your home to celebrate the season, you’ll need some help in the kitchen. Make hosting easier this season and beyond with help from stylish and powerful kitchen appliances.

KitchenAid is your go-to partner for all your gifting and hosting needs. This season, check out the KitchenAid Go Cordless System of countertop appliances. The innovative ecosystem eliminates countertop chaos in the kitchen. Every KitchenAid Go appliance is powered by one interchangeable and rechargeable battery for cord-free, powerful making.

These cordless small appliances cater to all lifestyles, unlocking the freedom to make wherever, whatever and however makers choose this holiday season and beyond. Best of all, they double as gift ideas to make even the hardest-to-shop-for loved ones smile.

1. Hand Mixer

With a hand mixer, you can whip up wonderful creations. Compact, lightweight and versatile, a hand mixer can help you easily make smooth cookie batter, perfect whipped cream, tasty icing and decadent chocolate mousse. Its usefulness isn’t limited to baking. Use your hand mixer to whisk eggs, beat potatoes and mix dressings for holiday dinners and everyday meals.

2. Hand Blender

Hand blenders allow you to easily puree and blend without the cumbersome process of transferring ingredients from pot to blender and back. Simply submerge the blending arm into your ingredients to blend and you’ll have creamy soups, smoothies, milkshakes and more!

3. Food Chopper

Chopping can be time-consuming and dull, especially if you make numerous main and side dishes for a holiday get-together. A food chopper allows you to precisely chop, dice and mince ingredients, shortening prep time so you can get on with other cooking tasks. It’s especially useful when chopping onions. With your food chopper, you can say farewell to onion-induced tears and tedious chopping marathons.

4. Personal Blender

Are you always on the move and need quick meals? Can’t start your day without your morning smoothie? A personal blender is exactly what you need. Blend your favorite fruits and veggies directly in the portable cup and go! Your personal blender will quickly become your new best friend and is a great gift for health-conscious family members who value convenience and ease.

5. Coffee Grinder

Pre-ground coffee gets the job done, but freshly ground coffee can elevate your morning routine with a more flavorful cup of joe. Wake up to the fragrance of freshly ground beans this holiday season with a coffee grinder. This game-changing appliance offers one-touch control that quickly grinds whole coffee beans and will delight any coffee connoisseur, who will be happy to make it part of their morning coffee ritual.

6. Kitchen Vacuum

Cleaning as you go is an indispensable kitchen habit, but it can be challenging. Make cooking and hosting easier on yourself with a kitchen vacuum. With this powerful kitchen vacuum, you can easily take care of crumbs, flour and other dry meal prep messes so you can focus on the finishing touches to your holiday meal.

Bonus!

The brand’s iconic Stand Mixer is the champion of the kitchen and a popular perennial gift and kitchen necessity. While hand mixers are great for small to medium-size kitchen projects, a stand mixer is what you’ll need for mixing, kneading and beating when cooking for a crowd. A stand mixer isn’t just an appliance. It’s your trusty sidekick for all your large dinner gatherings.

If you regularly host dinner parties for loved ones during the holidays and year-round, gift yourself the KitchenAid 7 Quart Bowl-Lift Stand Mixer. With 11 distinct speeds, this Stand Mixer gives you the power and control from high to low and everything in between. It even has a half speed to gently fold fragile ingredients like egg whites for festive meringue cookies.

If you still need a present for a cook or baker in your family, check out the KitchenAid Artisan Series 5 Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer in Juniper. Like basking in the lush shade of a towering Juniper tree, this color is the perfect blend of rich green with a touch of balancing blue, finished off with a crisp sparkle, like fresh morning dew.

Any (and all) of these kitchen appliances will make entertaining friends and family a breeze. Whether you gift them to yourself or others, there’s no way you can lose this holiday season with these seven little helpers. To learn more, visit KitchenAid.com.

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New film follows journey of public defender and client with disabilities https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42451/ 240831042451 Thu, 07 Dec 2023 09:01:00 GMT Play Video

(BPT) - The new short film Forgiving Johnny, directed by Oscar-winning director Ben Proudfoot and produced by the digital consultancy Publicis Sapient, follows Los Angeles County public defender Noah Cox and his client, Johnny, an individual with developmental disabilities who faced a 20-year prison sentence after an altercation with his brother-in law. A new digital platform created by Publicis Sapient, in partnership with the Los Angeles County Public Defender’s Office, allowed Cox to digitally and quickly access Johnny’s records, which had a significant impact on the outcome of Johnny’s case. Watch the film here.

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Are you a money whisperer? New study reveals 6 in 10 Americans don’t talk about money https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/41899/ 238091041899 Thu, 07 Dec 2023 08:39:00 GMT (BPT) - America, it’s time to have the money talk. According to research by Empower, a financial services company, 62% of people don't talk about money. Mum's the word with their family (63%), friends (75%) and even with their spouse/partner (46%), though millennials and Gen Z are twice as likely to say they're an "open book" compared to older generations (28% versus 13%). Many people would rather discuss politics (43%) and death (32%) than their finances (24%).

It may be costing them their dreams. A majority of people believe more candid "money talks" have the power to change the world: 66% remark that open conversations can help people build generational wealth, improve the gender wage gap (62%) and over half say that money conversations could improve workplace transparency (56%).

Carol Waddell, president of Empower Personal Wealth, says, "Conversation is a currency on the pathway to financial security, and open discussions about money can have a truly transformative effect on society. Our study shows people believe that clarity about their financial picture, talking to an advisor and financial education are key to achieving financial success.”

1. Growing up without money conversations

Don’t talk about money: that’s the message half (52%) of Americans hear, learning it’s impolite to talk about finances (26%), and certainly not what you earn (35%). The taboo prevails for nearly two-thirds (60%) of people who don’t feel comfortable on the topic.

Americans recall stowing away coins in a piggy bank (41%) but say many practical financial lessons weren’t discussed — like the importance of having an emergency fund (31%), building good credit (30%), and managing debt (27%) — as kids or adults. This might explain why Americans tend to clam up when the conversation turns to money. While many received an allowance (36%), the majority (68%) were never taught how to manage a budget. Nearly a quarter of Gen Zers (23%) grew up in a household with a swear jar teaching about money and manners — yet 79% of all people say they never spoke about how much is “needed” to be financially secure.

One in 5 (18%) Americans surveyed say they were raised with a YOLO money motto: “You only live once, so don’t worry too much about finances.” Despite the saying, more than a third (37%) say they regularly worry. That’s even higher for Gen Z and millennials (51% and 49%) and women, who are considerably more stressed about their personal finances than men (42% versus 33%).

2. Talking about money at work

Figuring out personal finance is intimidating and overwhelming for half of Americans (48%), and when it comes to managing their money, 39% say they don’t know where to start, including 41% of women and 37% of men. Compare that with sky-high confidence managing money at work: 73% feel at ease overseeing company budgets and the majority say they clearly understand their employer’s finances and performance (70%).

Reassuringly, people have a strong grasp on employer benefits like the availability of their company’s 401(k) plan (80%) and say they know how their pay raises work (77%). Advocating for themselves is where it gets tricky. One-third (33%) of people don’t feel comfortable asking for an increase. Men feel more comfortable asking for a pay raise than women (74% versus 59%). Better market data on compensation could potentially boost negotiation confidence and nearly half (49%) of survey respondents (and a majority of millennials, 69%, and Gen Z, 71%) believe discussing salaries can lead to better career opportunities.

Americans say they avoid uncomfortable money talk at work (68%), and more than half (56%) wish discussing salaries wasn’t taboo. Do you know how much your co-workers make? Just 19% of respondents say they’ve asked. But the workplace isn’t the only area Americans are staying quiet. People haven’t asked their friends (68%) or family (60%) either. Women are less comfortable talking about money with co-workers than men (36% women versus 50% men).

That said, people may not be as shy as expected: 58% of millennials and 53% of Gen Z (and 34% of Americans overall), would share their salary information on their LinkedIn.

What’s it amount to? According to 62% of respondents, open money conversations could solve the gender wage gap. Americans say greater wage transparency would motivate employees to work harder (50%) and help avoid miscommunications (60%).

3. Speak with an expert.

More than three-quarters (77%) of Americans want to see society take on more “money talks” about ways to save for the future (41%), money mistakes they’ve made (36%) and basic financial literacy (34%). A quarter want more discussions about how to negotiate (26%) and pay for big expenses (24%). Even more open dialogue about the emotional aspects of money would be helpful for 20% of respondents.

Ultimately, people believe more open conversations about money can have a truly transformative effect on society: 66% think it can help more people achieve financial freedom.

So, how does America get there? Respondents agree that clarity about their financial picture (40%), talking to an advisor (36%), and financial education (34%) are key to achieving financial success.

"In these challenging times, staying tight-lipped about money is something people can no longer afford. As part of our mission to advance financial freedom for all, we're here to help people speak up and take the next step for a brighter financial future," says Waddell.

If conversation is a currency on the pathway to financial security, it’s time to start speaking up.

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Are you prepared? Safeguard your business with an effective EAP https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/41802/ 237421041802 Tue, 05 Dec 2023 12:01:00 GMT (BPT) - As a business owner, you know it's best to expect the unexpected. This isn't just a wise strategy for business deals. It also applies to property emergencies.

Even with your best efforts, you can't prevent natural disasters or other risks to your establishments. That's why it's critical to create an Emergency Action Plan (EAP). An EAP is a set of procedures that outlines how your workplace will respond to various emergencies, including fires, severe weather, chemical spills and floods.

By prioritizing emergency preparedness, you can protect your business and create a safe environment for employees and customers who enter your buildings.

What does an EAP include?

Typically, an EAP includes evacuation procedures, contact information and emergency communication protocols. An EAP is a proactive approach to emergency preparedness that minimizes business disruption and downtime in the event of an emergency.

Knowing how to create an EAP can be difficult, but you can start by conducting a risk assessment. A risk assessment will help identify potential hazards in the workplace, their likelihood, and their potential impact on the business operations. Working with professionals like Rainbow Restoration® can help accurately evaluate risks, taking the guesswork out of disaster preparedness. After an evaluation, the company can also help you create an emergency response plan.

Roles, responsibilities and communication

A successful EAP assigns roles and responsibilities to employees who must implement the plan should an emergency occur.

A great way to define roles and assign responsibilities is to organize staff meetings on emergency preparedness. These meetings can help ensure everyone is well-prepared and knows the part they'll play in an emergency. This is also the perfect opportunity to outline a chain of command within an organization that can help streamline decision-making during crises.

Once roles and responsibilities have been established, it's essential to establish communication protocols. Effective communication allows employees to stay in touch, share critical information and enhance emergency response efforts. A communication protocol may include setting up emergency communication devices and developing plans for communication with employees, customers and suppliers.

You can expedite emergency response by downloading a tool like Rainbow Emergency Call app. This mobile app allows you to build digital reports, take live photos of a property during emergencies, and communicate arrival instructions to service professionals. You can download and use this app to immediately access vital resources during critical situations after an emergency response plan is created.

Once you establish an EAP, regularly review and update safety protocols to stay current with evolving best practices and regulations. Also, practicing an emergency action plan at least once a quarter helps ensure everyone is familiar with the procedures.

Preparing your business for fire emergencies and restoration

Fire emergency plans and restoration are critical components of any emergency response plan. In the fall and winter, it's important for business owners to take the initiative to assess a property's vulnerability to fire and educate themselves about the risks and recovery processes associated with fire damage. Being prepared in advance can make all the difference in ensuring the safety of employees and customers, as well as the longevity of your business.

Fires damage the structural integrity of your property and pose risks to the health and safety of occupants. The heat generated by fires can weaken your building's structure, making it unsafe for use, while the smoke and soot can lead to respiratory issues and health problems. Beyond the fire itself, the chemicals used to extinguish fires can also be hazardous if not adequately cleaned up.

Should a fire occur, it's essential to quickly and safely restore your property. Fire damage can also lead to lost revenue, inventory damage, equipment loss and prolonged downtime, which can financially devastate your businesses. However, when creating a fire restoration plan for your EAP, it's best to collaborate with a professional to avoid common mistakes that can lead to additional property damage and health hazards.

Common fire damage repair mistakes include waiting too long to start the restoration process, neglecting to address water damage, failing to document damage, and attempting to handle the restoration yourself.

Professional restoration companies, like Rainbow Restoration, have the expertise and experience necessary to assess damage, identify potential hazards and create a safe and efficient restoration plan. They provide rapid response, thoroughly restore and clean your property and document damage. Hiring professionals ensures a smoother recovery process and reduces the risk of additional damage and health hazards.

A commitment to safety is not only a legal obligation but also a moral one. By prioritizing emergency preparedness, business owners and facility managers create a secure environment that promotes the well-being of all those who enter the building. To learn more about how you can collaborate with a professional to create a strong EAP, visit RainbowRestores.com.

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1 in 3 U.S. Workers Say Tech Choice Is Key to Their Work Experience https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/40529/ 229671040529 Tue, 05 Dec 2023 11:51:32 GMT Play Video

(BPT) - Full-time U.S. employees are frustrated with poor technology in the workplace. A new survey from Compucom found that one in three workers say that they often or always have bad experiences with workplace technology, and it’s having an impact on productivity. Thirty-four percent of workers report losing more than 20 minutes of work each day.

Technology failures exacerbate workplace stress and with burnout levels already high, poor technology might push workers to leave. Over 50% of full-time workers admit that they have applied to other jobs, looked up jobs or even left their jobs because of technology trouble. This can lead to the loss of valuable employees and budget to recruit, replace and train talent.

So what solutions are there? The survey found that 36% of workers say they’d like to have a say in technology options, and 70% of employees say that they would have a higher level of productivity in their job if they could choose the technology they want. It goes to show how important the power of choice is in the workplace.

Compucom is a leading provider of technology sourcing, infrastructure and end-user support solutions through a customer-centric approach. The company tailors solutions to improve employee productivity and engagement, which leads to a better customer experience and operational efficiency.

For more information, visit www.compucom.com/transform-dex.

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Help prevent disease through revolutionary new genetics-powered service https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42296/ 239931042296 Fri, 01 Dec 2023 12:23:00 GMT (BPT) - When you think of genetics, what comes to mind? You may recall learning how your family genetics may determine your eye and hair color, height and other physical traits. But your genetic makeup goes beyond appearance — it can help you make more informed decisions about your health.

Knowing your genetic profile can help you understand what diseases you might be at higher risk of developing. Combined with blood testing — which reveals how your health stands today — genetic testing is a powerful tool you can use to help create a prevention-focused health care plan tailored just for you.

In an effort to merge advanced genetic testing with preventive clinical care, 23andMe has launched a health membership that provides a more complete picture of your health, called 23andMe+ Total Health™.

The new health service is a comprehensive, prevention-based membership, combining clinical-grade genetic exome sequencing, biannual blood testing and ongoing access to clinicians with unique knowledge in genetics-based care.

“We're bringing the power of genetics into your personal health care journey,” said 23andMe's Vice President of Genomic Health, Noura Abul-Husn, M.D., Ph.D. “We're offering comprehensive genetic testing — including exome sequencing — to help you understand your disease risks, blood testing to check on your current health status and what we need to monitor going forward, and access to clinicians with unique expertise to guide your next steps.”

What is exome sequencing?

There are many types of genetic testing. Historically, 23andMe has offered reports using genotyping technology, a powerful, efficient and accurate way to examine DNA variants at certain pre-identified positions in the genome.

Sequencing is a method used to determine the exact sequence of a certain length of DNA. You can sequence a short piece, the whole genome, or parts of the genome such as the “exome,” which are the regions of the genome that contain the instructions for making proteins. Using exome sequencing, 23andMe provides members with a more complete picture, surfacing many genetic variants known to be associated with disease risk.

As a medical geneticist, Dr. Abul-Husn wants people to understand how their genetic information is connected to their health and empower them to use that knowledge to stay healthy.

“We don't typically see genetics being used this way in health care, but it can and should. It's about prevention,” Dr. Abul-Husn said.

Healthcare focused on preventing disease

What does 23andMe+ Total Health offer? Members will receive clinician-ordered genetic testing that looks deeper into high-impact genes associated with 55+ health conditions that, if detected early, may have effective preventive measures and clinical interventions. This includes all genes considered medically actionable by the American College of Medical Genetics (ACMG) and under-diagnosed hereditary conditions related to cancer, cardiovascular, metabolic, kidney, neurological and other health conditions.

By signing up for 23andMe+ Total Health, you'll also receive biannual blood testing that goes beyond routine labs, measuring blood sugar levels, kidney, liver and thyroid function, cholesterol and advanced lipoprotein levels. Blood testing is initiated by a clinician, and members will complete their testing through a local lab offered by a third-party provider.

Finally, your membership connects you to clinicians with training in genetics who review your blood biomarkers, genetic data and personal and family medical history to provide personalized risk assessments and help build a tailored preventive health plan. You can also set up an annual virtual clinician consultation and have ongoing messaging conversations about your reports, health progress and any questions you may have.

23andMe+ Total Health is available for new customers, and will be offered to existing 23andMe customers as an upgrade in the spring of 2024. The membership costs $99 per month, billed in a one-time annual payment. It’s available for those 18+ in the US (excluding Hawaii, New Jersey, New York, Oklahoma and Rhode Island). To learn more about how you can harness the power of your genetics, visit 23andMe.com/Total-Health.

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Top tech gifts to keep you connected this holiday season and beyond https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/40603/ 230031040603 Fri, 01 Dec 2023 08:01:00 GMT (BPT) - Holidays are all about gathering together with family and friends. But when you can't be physically together, it's even more important to stay connected, no matter where you are. Fortunately, today's technology makes it easier than ever to stay connected to your loved ones.

T-Mobile understands the importance of keeping you connected wherever life may take you. To ensure you and your family stay connected this holiday season and beyond, the Un-carrier is offering the season’s best deals on top tech to ensure you can reach whoever you want, whenever you want, on the nation's largest, fastest and most awarded 5G network. And customers on Go5G Next and Go5G Plus can take advantage of great benefits year-round, including Netflix on Us, Apple TV+ on Us, SiriusXM Streaming Platinum on Us, MLB.TV, MLS Season Pass, T-Mobile Tuesdays and more just for being a T-Mobile customer.

When planning your holiday shopping, consider this list of gifts that use technology at its best — making it easier to spend time together, wherever your travels take you this season.

Please all the tech lovers in your family

If you're looking for gifts to suit just about any taste, you can snag the ultimate tech bundle at T-Mobile this holiday season! Get a free smartphone, smartwatch and earbuds bundle across leading brands from Samsung to Google and more when you stack qualifying holiday promotions, all via 24 monthly bill credits, plus tax. Whether you're shopping for your family or yourself, you'll be able to check off a few items on your list with this ultimate bundle.

Treat a family member, loved one or bestie with a new 5G phone

Looking for an extra special gift to help you stay close to an extra special someone? A new phone is just the right gift to keep you feeling close. Get $1,000 off the season's hottest Android devices from Samsung, Google and Motorola when trading in an eligible device or adding a line on Go5G Next or Go5G Plus, via 24 monthly bill credits, plus tax. That's $1,000 off the Samsung Galaxy S23, Google Pixel 8, motorola razr+ and more! Or you can get the new REVVL 6x PRO 5G or REVVL 6x 5G on T-Mobile when you add a line on most plans — or the REVVL 6x 5G on T-Mobile (or 6x PRO for $50) with any trade-in on most plans.

Stay connected to your kids almost anywhere, anytime

To ensure your kids stay safe at school, soccer practice and beyond, consider gifting them a smartwatch this holiday season. You can score a free SyncUP KIDS Watch via 24 monthly credits, plus tax, when you activate a new watch line at T-Mobile to ensure your kids stay connected and safe. Plus, T-Mobile is currently offering a free 3-pack of watch bands when picking up a SyncUP KIDS Watch in a T-Mobile store, while supplies last. And as an added bonus, video-calling is now available on the SyncUP KIDS Watch. Now you can video call your kids practically anywhere they are, whenever you want!

Bluetooth speakers for an epic family dance party

Does your idea of the perfect family gathering involve a lot less small talk, and a lot more grooving to your favorite tunes? You'll be ready to rock the house together when you get the Harman Kardon Onyx Studio 8 for your fam for just $179.99 — a T-Mobile exclusive. The Un-carrier is also offering up to $150 off select JBL products so you can choose the device best suited for you and your family.

Best tech stocking stuffers

Want the season's best accessories to keep the whole family charged up and protected? T-Mobile is offering deals on a variety of tech accessories, including back-up chargers, wireless charging devices, cell phone grips, screen protectors, cases and more for excellent — and much appreciated — stocking stuffers for the whole family.

Keep it all in the family

Need a great phone plan to help everyone in your family keep in touch? T-Mobile has brought back one of its most popular deals this holiday! Get four voice lines for only $100 per month on Essentials. T-Mobile customers can save $480/year compared to AT&T and $240/year compared to Verizon on similar plans with four lines!

Get your holiday shopping done early and enjoy gifting the latest and greatest devices while stacking up on savings. Plus, you've been good this year — why not snag a gift or two for yourself while you're at it? Visit T-MobileDeals.com to check out all the latest deals.

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4 expert tips to maximize your processing facility's performance https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/41194/ 233321041194 Thu, 30 Nov 2023 15:01:00 GMT (BPT) - Manufacturers face numerous challenges, from meeting regulations to handling equipment breakdowns and more. There's no shortage of variables that cause logistical nightmares — losing companies money for every minute of downtime. According to a recent industry report by Deloitte, unplanned downtime alone can cost manufacturers an estimated $50 billion each year.

"Uptime is the name of the game in all types of production, including food and beverage manufacturing," said Vic Stockman, vice president of Services, Tetra Pak U.S. and Canada, a world leading food processing and packaging company. "So it's vital to prevent unwanted breakdowns, before unplanned downtime affects your bottom line."

In today's strained labor market, Stockman stressed two elements for operations to run as efficiently and sustainably as possible: providing the right training and knowing when you need outside support.

Here are his tips for boosting any operation's performance, uptime and profits.

1. Manage maintenance

Although preventive maintenance is key to avoiding equipment failure, it's challenging to stick to recommended maintenance intervals while following demanding production schedules. For that reason, he advises using experienced technicians so maintenance is done right the first time — reducing unwanted downtime.

"Plants can also consider World Class Manufacturing (WCM) approaches to optimize maintenance intervals, and explore other areas of improvement," added Stockman. "At Tetra Pak, we used what we've learned from decades of experience in our WCM packaging material factories and share those insights with our food and beverage customers."

Predictive maintenance is another great tool to maximize your processing equipment: Condition monitors report how the equipment is running to predict failures before they occur, so plants aren't performing maintenance until it's needed.

2. Optimize internal staff

Another vital aspect to efficient production is operator training, which ensures equipment is used properly. This is especially important during high staff turnover. If someone doesn't have the right skills or training, it's easier for them to replace many working components instead of properly diagnosing the root cause to a specific broken part or component — leading to additional downtime and increased need for parts that did not have to be replaced.

Having an on-site engineer can alleviate this issue. "Our on-site engineers tell us customers experience about a 25% reduction in unnecessary consumption of spare parts," said Stockman. "Plant operators also have the opportunity to learn from on-site engineers, which ensures consistency during staffing changes."

3. Improve procedures

Plants can also re-assess operating procedures to minimize downtime. Using the correct steps for maintenance, spare parts, cleaning intervals and more is crucial for consistent operations.

An outside consultant can evaluate how existing procedures are being executed and identify areas for improvement. For example, if a plant is experiencing a high rate of shrinkage, they may suggest more training in a certain area, pinpoint where a new sensor may improve outcomes — or another custom solution based on their observations.

Even the performance of a brand-new line can be enhanced with superior expertise and training. "One Tetra Pak customer with several brand-new lines increased uptime by 20% with better operator training," Stockman said. "We made sure our customer's operational team was well trained and understood how to react to different scenarios — and how to properly plan and sequence operations. For example, they staggered activities so peak utilities usage didn't negatively impact multiple pieces of equipment."

4. Tap outside expertise

To improve processes, consider remote support for your on-site team from an outside expert (who could be virtually anywhere) to discover the best solutions, with minimal downtime.

On-site employees can consult with experts who may better understand the problem and suggest next steps, which alleviates downtime in two ways: First, since the remote support engineer needs no travel time, they can "be there" quickly. Second, the remote expert can use their expertise, assess the problem with fresh eyes and suggest efficient solutions.

"With Tetra Pak's remote support customers, about 90% of the issues we're diagnosing are related to run settings and not the components, while less experienced staff may replace the many components instead of adjusting an incorrect setting," explained Stockman. "It really pays to have this expertise at your fingertips."

While these tips help your facility get the most value by producing as much as possible, they also make your plant run more sustainably. Minimizing lost product means less waste, running more efficiently means using fewer utilities to achieve the same goal, and cleaning less means saving chemicals and reducing water use.

"You can increase uptime and output with the right resources and mindset," Stockman said. "By ensuring your employees are well trained, have the right tools — and can consult outside resources when needed — you'll have the best expertise available to solve current issues and prevent unplanned downtime."

To learn more about optimizing manufacturing operations, visit tetrapak.com/solutions/services.

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Simple eye care: 5 ways to reduce blue light https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42074/ 239391042074 Thu, 30 Nov 2023 10:01:00 GMT (BPT) - As we head into winter, the days are growing shorter and nightfall comes earlier. Given the weather and lack of sunlight, you’ll likely spend more time indoors during the colder months. While this can bode well for spending quality time indoors with friends and family, especially during the holidays, it also means that you’ll spend a lot of time staring at screens.

While mobile devices can simplify life, too much screen time can harm your health. Screen time and blue light exposure have been raised as a growing health concern, and doctors, educators, employers and parents agree that there are potential risks from overexposure.

Blue light is part of our natural world, but high energy visible (HEV) blue light from digital devices can also affect your sleep, resulting in trouble sleeping, waking up during the night, or reduced alertness the next day.

According to Harvard Health, blue light — especially at night — can suppress your body’s release of melatonin, an important hormone that promotes feelings of sleepiness. Additionally, a survey by The Vision Council found that many American adults experience eyestrain, dry eyes, headaches, blurred vision, and neck and shoulder pain after extended screen time and blue light exposure.

While you can’t and shouldn’t completely get rid of blue light, you can take steps to reduce your exposure. ZAGG, known for its device cases and screen protectors, cares about protecting users from high energy light exposure and has offered five tips to help you protect your eyes from blue light this winter and beyond.

1. Reduce screen time

The easiest way to protect your eyes from blue light is to reduce screen time. According to estimates by Eyesafe, the average screen time for U.S. adults has increased to over 13 hours a day. Children ages 8-12 and teens spend an average of 4-6 hours and up to nine hours, respectively, watching or using screens.

You don’t have to stop using your devices altogether. Find other hobbies and activities you can do on your own or with company to give your eyes a break.

2. Put away your devices before bedtime

For the sake of your sleep, it’s critical that you put away devices before going to bed. According to an article published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS), too much blue light exposure from viewing screens at night may impact our circadian rhythms and cause trouble sleeping, waking during the night and reduced alertness the next day.

Aim to put away your electronic devices at least an hour before bedtime so you can increase your chances of getting a good night’s sleep.

3. Install blue light filtering screen protectors

Thanks to modern technology, there are now products on the market that can help reduce your exposure to blue light.

For example, ZAGG’s InvisibleShield Glass XTR3 is the world’s first screen protector with Eyesafe RPF60 technology that filters blue light which can disrupt sleep. This new-to-world Eyesafe technology filters intense blue light between 435-440 nanometers, which is the portion of the spectrum most concerning to eye doctors. Best of all, ZAGG screen protectors won’t change the color on your screen, meaning no yellow tint.

4. Wear blue light-blocking glasses

When using computers and tablets or watching TV, make it a habit to wear blue light–blocking glasses. There are many options for prescription and non-prescription eyeglasses with blue light filtration. They also come in several styles and colors so you can protect your eyes in style.

5. Use device software

Many devices now have software installed that can help reduce a user’s exposure to blue light. For example, you can set your device to night mode and adjust the screen display to a warmer temperature to reduce blue light output. The downside is your screen will have a yellow or amber tint. Alternatively, if you use a ZAGG screen protector or wear blue light-blocking glasses, you’ll receive the same filtering benefits without changing the colors on your screen.

This winter, make your eyes a priority. Using these five tips, you’ll be well on your way to reducing your exposure to blue light so you can decrease digital eyestrain and hopefully get a better night’s sleep. To learn more about blue light, visit ZAGG.com/Blue-Light-Filtering.

Many devices now have software installed that can help reduce a user’s exposure to blue light. For example, you can set your device to night mode and adjust the screen display to a warmer temperature to reduce blue light output. The downside is your screen will have a yellow or amber tint. Alternatively, if you use a ZAGG screen protector or wear blue light-blocking glasses, you’ll receive the same filtering benefits without changing the colors on your screen.

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Can money buy happiness? More than half of Americans say yes in new study https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/41902/ 238091041902 Tue, 28 Nov 2023 12:00:00 GMT (BPT) - How much money would make you happy? According to the average American, the price tag comes in around $1.2 million.

New research from Empower, a leader in financial planning, investing and advice, reveals 6 in 10 Americans believe money can buy happiness, though just 17% say financial contentment is about reaching a certain net worth. It turns out that a little goes a long way and incremental financial wins can make a massive impact on Americans' well-being.

"Every generation has grappled with questions of how to calculate financial happiness: hard work, a lot of planning, consistent savings, and even a little bit of luck, in just the right measures," says Carol Waddell, president of Empower Personal Wealth. "A spirit of financial confidence prevails, with 7 in 10 saying they have clear financial goals and Americans continue to envision a bright future."

The financials of happiness

While the study found that 7 in 10 Americans (71%) believe more money would solve most of their problems, for a third (32%) a relatively attainable gain of $15,000 would make a meaningful impact in their lives, boosting their feeling of financial happiness for six months. That number surges to 42% with a $25,000 gain, and just $5,000 would do it for 17%.

Indeed, happiness manifests in big and small ways. The majority of Americans say it's on-time bill payment (67%) and living debt-free (65%), while roughly half say it's the ability to afford small luxuries without guilt (54%) and home ownership (45%). Over half say their contentment can be found in spending on experiences with those they cherish (53%) and in optimism for what's next, including retiring on their own terms (37%).

Readying for retirement

Nearly three-quarters of Americans (73%) say they're currently experiencing financial stress, with today's economic pressures like inflation (81%), rising interest rates (66%) and student loans (32%) dampening their sense of prosperity. Half report carrying debt (54% overall, and 72% of Gen X) and nearly 4 in 10 (36%) say that they couldn't handle an unforeseen expense over $500 without real worry.

In the current financial environment, Americans now expect to retire three years later, at age 63. Those with a less detailed financial plan (or no plan at all) don't expect to clock out until age 70, five years later than planned.

For about 4 in 10 Americans (37%), and exactly half of Gen Xers, retiring by a certain age is the meaning of financial happiness. The majority (84%) are taking steps to reach this target, including putting more money into retirement savings (39%), short-term savings like a high-yield account (31%), and working with a financial advisor (26%). A quarter of savers (25%) are paying off debt more aggressively than they would otherwise and 22% are delaying a major purchase like a car.

The power of planning

The majority of Americans (73%) say a solid financial plan would bring them happiness, and they would like help to get there: 57% of Americans wish they would have gotten advice sooner. Nearly half of Americans (45%) say they haven’t gotten the financial advice they need, including 55% of Gen Zers and 57% of Millennials. But those who already have a plan are proof of its power: Americans with a more detailed financial plan are three times as likely as those with a less detailed plan to report greater happiness around financial freedom (75% versus 24%), their plans to achieve financial goals (78% versus 23%), and the overall state of their finances, such as their net worth and debt balances (73% versus 19%).

"The financial professionals at Empower combine the power of advice with technology to help Americans get on the path to financial freedom," explains Waddell. "With their financial goals in mind and a solid plan to reach them, savers can spend more time doing the things that make them happy — in their working years and beyond."

Access the full Financial Happiness report on The Currency™.

Methodology:
"Financial Happiness" survey of 2,034 Americans ages 18+ commissioned by Empower and fielded by The Harris Poll from August 7 to August 14, 2023.

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Do you know how to reduce holiday stress? One university focuses on giving back https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42042/ 239161042042 Tue, 28 Nov 2023 08:01:00 GMT (BPT) - If you feel stressed around the holiday season, you are far from alone. Between busier schedules, long to-do lists and high expectations, what should be a joyful time of year can instead offer real mental health challenges for people of all ages.

According to the Mayo Clinic, one tried-and-true method of lowering your own stress is to help others through actions like volunteering. To help employees, students and their community reduce stress during the season, DeVry University leans into its "Culture of Care," including initiatives to give back to and become more engaged with the community.

How colleagues and students can feel more engaged

"Building a sense of belonging is vital and starts with our Culture of Care: Care for our colleagues, students, families and the communities we serve," said Dave Barnett, chief administrative officer, DeVry University. "For everyone to feel a sense of belonging, especially around the holiday season, they must feel that our organization values them. A sense of gratitude drives engagement far more than short-term activities."

Becoming part of something larger than yourself is a vital part of feeling gratitude and a sense of purpose that can put everyday stressors in perspective. Here are a few ways the university encourages giving back to the community:

SMART Futures

DeVry's social responsibility initiative, SMART Futures, focuses on helping today's youth prepare for the careers of tomorrow, especially in communities where kids may not have sufficient technology fluency to keep up with fast-evolving tech fields. DeVry colleagues, faculty, students, alumni, and partners work together to help middle and high school students in underserved communities with hands-on experiences and resources to ensure they'll be ready for careers of the future.

For example, the SMART Futures program initiated a partnership with the Boys & Girls Club of America and supported three local Clubs across the country this year, including a Summer Workforce Readiness Program and a new DeVry University STEM Lab.

HerWorld is another initiative from SMART Futures that introduces middle school girls to STEM subjects by building digital fluency and technology confidence while also encouraging curiosity in technology careers. HerWorld engages young girls in underrepresented school districts by sharing stories about the careers they could have with technology and giving them hands-on interaction with different types of technology.

Volunteer Time Off

As part of SMART Futures, the university provides paid time off for colleagues and faculty members to make an impact in the community, including volunteer opportunities with organizations that align to SMART Futures and support technology confidence among underserved youth including Boys & Girls Clubs, Junior Achievement and more. DeVry also encourages colleagues to support and volunteer at organizations important to them.

The DeVry Scholarship Fund

The DeVry Scholarship Fund is a 501(c)(3) public charity that works in partnership with, but separate from, DeVry University. The Fund supports the student journey by providing financial support in the form of competitive scholarships to qualifying students. Scholarships are awarded to current students, especially those with the greatest need and who have established a successful academic track record. The Scholarship Fund responds to student needs by assisting those who, without scholarships, may find it difficult to continue their education.

Through all of these efforts and more, DeVry's Culture of Care encourages everyone to show care by going the extra mile for colleagues in their day-to-day work lives, inspiring each other to bring their best to work every day. This translates into care for students by creating a positive environment where they experience high-quality, personalized learning supported by outstanding service.

"The holiday season is a great time for leaders of every organization to give back, to encourage a culture of giving back to the community, and to show appreciation to employees," added Barnett. "Openly expressing gratitude is very meaningful, and helping others is a positive way to show how much you appreciate what you already have — as well as what you're willing to give others to contribute to a positive community where everyone can thrive."

Learn more about DeVry University at DeVry.edu.

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5 perfect wireless presents to gift your loved ones this holiday season https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/40602/ 230031040602 Tue, 28 Nov 2023 02:01:00 GMT (BPT) - Wireless shopping can be difficult, confusing and stressful, whether you're shopping for your parents, kids, grandparents, yourself or anyone else on your list. This holiday season, Metro by T-Mobile makes it easy, simple and stress free to find the perfect wireless gifts for everyone on your list. Check out these five ideas for memorable tech gifts for your loved ones (and yourself!) this holiday season.

1. 5G your home internet

You don't have to break the bank to get your home internet connection. Right now, qualifying Affordable Connectivity Program customers who purchase any Metro phone plan can lock in 5G Home Internet for $20 a month with AutoPay. You won't have to worry about a contract, exploding bills or sneaky gotchas. You will need to purchase a modem, but it can be returned within 60 days if you're unhappy. This deal is available in select markets. Any questions, just ask!

2. Keeping in touch with loved ones: A tablet for grandparents or school kids at home or away

A tablet can bridge the generational gap and keep everyone from college kids to grandparents connected during the holidays and all year round. For grandparents, video calls give them a window into their grandkids' lives. For college students who are always on the go, it's a versatile gift that helps them stay organized and in touch with their families between classes or after a study session. Make sure to choose a user-friendly device with a large screen and clear visuals so everyone can stay connected with ease.

3. Gift your smart partner a smartwatch

For the special someone in your life who is tech-forward and values style, give them a sleek and sophisticated smartwatch. This wearable technology is not just an accessory. Your partner can track their health and fitness goals, receive notifications, manage calls, texts and emails, and even control supported smart home devices without even pulling their phone out of their pocket. Your partner will be incredibly grateful to receive this fashionable and functional gift this holiday season.

4. Treat yourself to trendy tech

Don't forget to give yourself something special this holiday. For example, now is the perfect time to upgrade your current smartphone. Use it to capture holiday memories, stay connected with friends and family, organize your day, stream music and videos, and enjoy apps that make life more convenient.

For instance, if you're not currently a Metro customer, you can treat yourself to a motorola razr. It’s under $100, the lowest price in prepaid. Just swing by your local Metro store, bring your digits and ID and sign up for our most popular plan today. You even get a $100 virtual prepaid Mastercard after the third monthly payment. So, it’s basically free. It’s the gift that keeps giving with no contract, credit check or other nasty surprises.

5. Surprise your tween with their first phone

Now that you've upgraded your phone consider passing it off to your tween, who no doubt has been begging for their first phone for quite a while. It will teach them responsibility, allow them to stay connected with you and their friends, and allow you to teach them safe and responsible phone use. They'll be surprised and delighted by this fun and practical gift.

Take your old phone to Metro and get one line of Unlimited 5G for $25. It’s $30 for the first month and then $25 a month every month after with Autopay. Just make sure to check your network compatibility and unlock your phone online before bringing it in-store.

These five wireless presents are thoughtful and useful gifts that can bring joy, convenience and connectivity to your loved ones during the holiday season. It’s wireless without the gotcha. To learn more about these offers and find your one-stop wireless gift shop near you, visit MetroByT-Mobile.com.

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5 Tips for Making the Most of Holiday Deals on Tech https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42464/ 240911042464 Wed, 22 Nov 2023 13:15:00 GMT (BPT) - It’s the most anticipated shopping season of the year — and many people wait for months to score the best prices on a new smartphone, TV, speaker, watch or the latest high-tech gifts for loved ones.

“The holidays are about creating memories, but you want to do it without breaking the bank or going into debt,” says Lynnette Khalfani-Cox, author of the New York Times bestselling book Zero Debt: The Ultimate Guide to Financial Freedom. “You can still embrace the spirit of the gifting season, connect with loved ones, and celebrate — all without financial stress.”

Khalfani-Cox, also known as The Money Coach, shares her best tips on shopping for tech gifts to ensure holiday cheers don’t become financial woes.

1. Shop around.

You don’t have to wait until Black Friday to get the best discounts on devices. Many retailers announce their sales ahead of time, so watch for flyers and emails from your favorite spots. If you have your eye on a certain item, check out prices at several places before you decide to make a purchase. If you’re shopping online, you can add an item to your cart before checking other sites. Then, if it ends up being a price you like, you can easily come back to your cart to place an order.

2. Choose the right phone plan or phone to save and connect.

The holidays are a time when you’re likely to make a lot more calls to family and friends. If a new smartphone is on your shopping list, a prepaid phone plan can help save money and give you more payment flexibility in addition to letting you easily stay in touch with loved ones. Prepaid wireless plans don’t require a contract or credit check, and there are no penalties. Straight Talk Wireless, the leading prepaid brand on America’s most-reliable 5G network1, offers plans that deliver more value and fit every budget. Sold exclusively at Walmart, all Straight Talk Unlimited Gold and Platinum plans include a Walmart+ membership at no extra cost, giving you extra benefits and savings — like early access to shopping deals and free deliveries — that are perfect for the holiday season. They’re also now offering the iPhone SE for just $49 in Walmart stores while supplies last.

And if you’re an Android fan, check out carriers like Total by Verizon. If you switch to Total by Verizon, you can get a free Samsung Galaxy A13 5G phone when you sign up for an Unlimited plan — which boasts four lines for $25/line with Auto Pay.

3. Beware of hidden fees and policies.

When shopping around for tech deals, always read the fine print, especially if you’re in the market for a new phone. Some wireless phone offerings have hidden fees and charges involved. Others may require you to sign up for autopay to get certain discounts. Watch out for these rules to save on unexpected costs.

If you’re shopping for other tech devices, be sure to know each store’s price-match and return policies. You’ll likely have a limited number of days to return items. You also don’t want to get stuck with a restocking fee if you end up wanting to return an item to the store.

4. Check your social apps.

The social media feeds of your favorite retailers often offer exclusive deals and promotions. Stores like to reward customers who follow and engage with their content with special alerts to Black Friday discounts and incentives on Facebook, Instagram or other platforms. If you’re active on social media, consider following along with your go-to brands during the holiday season for the latest deals.

5. Use loyalty programs.

Another way to get access to early sales, coupons and promotions is to join a store’s loyalty program through email or text. These programs are usually free to join and often offer additional incentives like free shipping or pick-up in store and rewards to use toward future purchases.

Make it a season of merriment by maximizing your budget for the holidays. Follow these tips to find shopping success on all your tech gifts and needs this year.

1 Most reliable 5G network based on more first place rankings in RootMetrics’ 5G data reliability assessments of 125 metro markets conducted in 1H 2022. Tested with best commercially available smartphones on three national mobile networks across all available network types. Your experiences may vary. RootMetrics rankings are not an endorsement of Verizon.

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Are You Cyber-savvy this Holiday Shopping Season? https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/40827/ 231401040827 Tue, 21 Nov 2023 15:49:00 GMT (BPT) - Would you leave the front door of your home unlocked at night? Probably not.

For the same reasons you secure the things most valuable inside your home, it has never been more important to lock down your online accounts. Whether it’s your bank account, 401(k), social media, email, or sensitive files stored in the cloud, it’s your responsibility to install the digital locks that will stop cybercriminals from stealing and profiting off your data.

The keys to securing your accounts and data are stronger passwords and authentication. Here are some essential cyber-savvy tips to get you through this holiday shopping season safely:

  • You lose when you reuse: Never use the same password across multiple accounts. If cybercriminals were to obtain your username and password, then they would likely try that same set of credentials on multiple sites. Avoid this type of cyberattack by using different passwords on all your accounts. Avoid the temptation to use one password for all your online shopping sites.
  • Password managers are your friend: Consider using a password manager. Most popular mobile devices and browsers have native password managers built into them, so using one has never been easier. Password managers automatically create unique and complex passwords and then securely store them, so you don’t have to memorize them.
  • Passphrases keep things simple: Passphrases are the strongest forms of passwords. While many online retailers require passwords to include uppercase/lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols, it’s the overall length of the password that makes it secure. An easy way to make your passwords longer is to use a string of words. Examples: “iheartholidayshopping” or “familytimeismyfavorite.”
  • Turn on multi-factor authentication (MFA): Whenever an online service or app offers MFA, you should enable it to add an extra layer of protection against cybercriminals. MFA most often works by texting or emailing you a one-time passcode to sign into your account.
  • Use public devices with caution: If you need to use a public computer (e.g., at a customer service desk or the library), make sure you sign out of email, a retailer website or any other account you may have accessed.
  • Passwords are like toothbrushes: Don’t share your passwords with anyone, including a family member, your shopping buddy or even your boss. Also, never write down your passwords on a shopping flyer/list or let someone snoop over your shoulder when typing in a password. Always be on alert when standing in those long checkout lines and searching your phone for the next best deal.

According to the most recent Xfinity Cyber Health Report, 78% of respondents admitted to risky behaviors that open themselves up to attack, including reusing passwords across two or more platforms (56%), neglecting to install recommended software updates on smart devices (28%) or even sharing passwords with someone else (24%).

Shoppers are particularly vulnerable during the holiday season. Between Black Friday, Cyber Monday and general holiday shopping, you may be at risk of being lured by bargains and clicking on a fake ad, website or auction listing, where personal or financial information can be captured and stolen.

Guard against social engineering scams — phishing (email), smishing (SMS text) or vishing (voice calls) — this holiday season by following these cyber-savvy best practices:

  • Never share sensitive information over the phone: No matter how “official” the caller sounds, do not share your account information, credit card number, PIN or login credentials. Even if it’s a familiar number, use caution. Phone numbers can be spoofed to look like a call is coming from a legitimate source.
  • Always double-check web addresses: A website’s URL can tell you a lot about its security. When visiting a website, look for “https://” at the beginning of the web address, indicating that the data going to and coming from the website’s server is encrypted.
  • Scrutinize texts as you would emails: Never reply to an SMS/text message that you suspect might be fraudulent, and do not click on any suspicious links within a text message.

Preserve the magic of the season by keeping these cyber-savvy tips in mind. It’s a good idea to check in with your internet service provider to see what security solutions they offer for their home gateways. For example, Comcast’s xFi Advanced Security service protects millions of home users and can add safe browsing and data protection while on the go through xFi Complete. With the right tools and security habits, you can help protect yourself and shop safely this holiday season.

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Does your business need specialized AI to grow? How to make it happen https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/41182/ 233271041182 Tue, 21 Nov 2023 10:07:00 GMT (BPT) - As the exponential growth of AI continues to dominate the headlines, businesses everywhere are exploring how to best use this technology. According to Forbes, most business owners view AI as a benefit, with 64% seeing AI as a way to boost productivity and improve customer relationships, and 60% anticipating sales growth due to the burgeoning technology.

However, generalized AI systems most people are familiar with, like ChatGPT, are not tailored to meet specialized needs of any particular industry, and have real limitations when it comes to applying them to specific business uses. AIs and Large Language Models (LLMs) are not scalable, as they've been trained on vast amounts of text in order to be able to understand existing content and generate new content. It would be impossible — and far too costly — to even attempt to have them study all the available content on the web.

The future is specialized AIs

If your business wants to maximize the use of AI technology, what you really need is an AI that's specifically designed to suit your particular business. While your business may benefit from a horizontal AI — a generalized system focusing on processes such as customer service, content generation or accounting, it could require a vertical AI system, tailored to function in a much more specific industry such as banking or healthcare, which requires aggregation of large quantities of data, both public and private.

An AI system trained for very specific tasks costs far less than generalized AI, and is easier to maintain and keep up to date. But for optimal training and function, AIs need to be wrapped with an application programming interface (API) to allow them to communicate with other AIs for all the resources and information they need.

And that interface comes at a cost. For this system of communication to work efficiently, AIs need the autonomy to pay each other in real time for these resources. This will enable AIs to scale, and data to flow more rapidly, in a more accurate way.

How payments work for AI training and communication

In some cases, the interactions between AIs can involve very small costs, which become more expensive when credit cards have to be used to pay for each one of these small exchanges.

On the other hand, AI and LLM models are trained and built on Graphics Processing Units (GPUs), which has caused the price of GPUs to soar. Payment for GPUs via credit card only increases this expense for both platform providers and users — as well as opening up vulnerabilities to costly chargeback fees and fraud.

The need for credit cards for all these interactions between AIs can also inhibit access for many potential users worldwide — closing off avenues for creativity, education and business growth for billions of people.

The solution: Pay per use via Bitcoin

Allowing AIs to pay each other using the currency of the internet — Bitcoin — solves many of these issues, making AIs and LLMs much more accessible to everyone. To make this happen, AI engineers will need to use Lightning Network Daemon (LND) created by Lightning Labs. The Lightning Network builds on the L402 protocol, implemented through Aperture and using LangChain, which creates AI agents that perform tasks such as interacting with Bitcoin.

If all that sounds complicated, it doesn't need to be. You can get your business set up on the Lightning Network in minutes at Voltage.cloud. Their easy-to-use API and dashboard can get you access to the Bitcoin development platform and the L402 protocol.

"Eighty-three percent of the internet actions are API calls, and this number is rising," said Bobby Shell, Vice President of Marketing, Voltage. "By giving AI agents and APIs the capability to pay per use, many new business models and opportunities are made available to businesses and entrepreneurs."

How to get started

Especially if you run a small or midsize business (SMB), you may think your options are limited regarding affording training and hosting specialized AI. But with Voltage, you can get fast setup on the Lightning Network, and they'll handle the networking and updates, saving you time. Voltage also uses encryption to ensure security and safety.

"There's a multitrillion-dollar cash flow, chargeback and fraud problem. Nearly all SMBs struggle with cash flow problems, and as enterprises scale, they deal with chargeback and fraud issues," said Shell. "Lightning Network gives businesses of any size automation capabilities to reduce fraud, increase cash flow and improve working capital conditions."

Ready to make specialized AI work for your business? Start building and integrating L402 into your product.

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Are you at risk? New genetic report sheds light on breast cancer risk genes https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42295/ 239931042295 Mon, 20 Nov 2023 05:01:00 GMT (BPT) - You don’t always know what’s in your gene pool. Even with a detailed family health history, you may not have a complete picture for what you’re at risk for developing. In fact, according to a 2018 research study, more than 80% of people with a BRCA1 or BRCA2 variant did not know they have one.

That said, genetic testing can be expensive, even if you have insurance. Many people do not have a family history of cancer that would qualify them for traditional genetic testing through a healthcare professional. However, 23andMe has expanded its BRCA1/BRCA2 (Selected Variants) Genetic Health Risk Report*, providing an affordable option that gives folks, especially those in underserved communities, access to their genetics. This report can help individuals identify their risk of developing breast cancer and other diseases.

Affordable genetic testing with powerful results

In 2018, 23andMe received the first Federal Drug Administration (FDA) authorization for a direct-to-consumer genetic test for cancer risk to report three variants in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. These genes are known to be associated with a higher risk for breast, ovarian, prostate and pancreatic cancer.

Now, the company has received FDA clearance to expand its report, allowing 23andMe customers to learn whether they have one or more of 44 genetic variants found on the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. Women with even just one of these genetic variants can have up to an 85% greater risk of developing breast or other associated cancers than the general population.

This new report hands consumers powerful information that they can use to work with a healthcare professional to mitigate their health risks. However, what makes it stand out is its potential to close the health care gap for traditionally underserved populations.

How underserved communities can benefit from genetic testing

The 44 BRCA1/BRCA2 variants the company now tests for account for roughly 30-40% of cancer-related BRCA1/BRCA2 variants among people of African American, non-Ashkenazi European and Hispanic/Latino descent and several variants found in people of East Asian and South Asian descent.

The expanded report is just one way 23andMe is making progress on its mission to help people access, understand and benefit from the human genome, especially for traditionally underserved communities. There are significant disparities in access to BRCA1/BRCA2 genetic testing in some communities in the U.S., including the Black, Hispanic/Latino and Asian communities. Black Americans also experience dramatic disparities in breast cancer outcomes, according to published research by the American Cancer Society.

How you can learn more about your genetic health risks

New and existing 23andMe Health + Ancestry Service customers who were genotyped on the company’s most recent platform can access the expanded BRCA1/BRCA2 (Selected Variants) Genetic Health Risk Report. The report also includes an education module so individuals are fully informed of what they can learn from this report and how to use the results before viewing the report.

The 23andMe BRCA1/BRCA2 (Selected Variants) Genetic Health Risk report is not a comprehensive genetic test, is intended for adults, does not diagnose cancer and should not be used on its own to make medical decisions. Genetic variants found in the 23andMe report require confirmatory testing. However, knowing you have a variant provides a critical opportunity to discuss options with your healthcare provider, get confirmatory genetic testing and take preventive action. To learn more, visit 23andMe.com/DNA-Health-Ancestry.

*To learn more about the genetic health risk report mentioned here as well as other important information about 23andMe, please see site for details.

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