(NewsUSA) - A need for reliable backup emergency power will be more critical this fall and winter season. Experts warn that extreme weather could bring additional power outages as temperatures surge and storms grow fiercer. Tropical storms are expected to intensify. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) continues to advise that a highly active hurricane season will likely continue in the Atlantic through 2024.

These warnings underscore the importance of preparation at home. The harsh realities of extreme weather and the increasing frequency of weather-related outages make it imperative for individuals and communities to have robust backup power solutions in place.

The Impact of Power Outages

Power outages have become exceedingly inconvenient and can have far-reaching consequences that affect nearly every aspect of modern living. Without electricity, homes are left without heating, refrigeration, and lighting. Power loss can lead to dangerous living conditions in colder climates, particularly for vulnerable populations such as the elderly or those with young children and even pets. Additionally, power outages can disrupt communication channels, making it challenging to stay informed about the latest weather developments and emergency instructions.

In recent years, the frequency and duration of power outages have increased due to more intense and unpredictable weather patterns. According to data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), weather-related power outages have risen, with hurricanes, ice storms, and heavy snowfalls being the primary culprits. The highly active hurricane season combined with the potential for severe winter storms suggests homeowners understand what they need for a reliable backup power source.

Types of Backup Power Solutions

Several options exist for those looking to secure backup power in emergency situations. Each has advantages and drawbacks, and the choice will depend on individual needs, budget, and the specific risks posed by the local climate.

1. Portable Generators. Portable generators are a popular choice for backup power due to the relative affordability and versatility of the unit, which can power essential appliances such as refrigerators, sump pumps, and heating systems. A portable generator will require fuel, typically gasoline or propane, and must be operated outdoors several feet away from any opening to the home due to the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Regular maintenance is also essential to ensure they can start and operate properly when needed.

2. Standby Generators. The more permanent solution is the most reliable option offered by a home standby generator. These units are installed outside the home and are connected directly to the electrical panel. Standby generators are powered by natural gas or propane and automatically activate when utility power is disrupted, allowing for continuous power for extended periods of time. This makes them ideal for homes in areas prone to frequent or prolonged outages. While more costly than portable generators, they offer powerful peace of mind and convenience.

3. Solar Power with Battery Storage. Renewable energy technology is advancing, and solar power systems with battery storage, such as those offered by companies like Generac, are another viable option and are becoming increasingly popular as backup power solutions. Solar panels can generate electricity during daylight hours, and excess energy is then stored in batteries. This eco-friendly option can reduce dependency on fossil fuels, though the initial investment requires considerable planning and energy system design.

Why Backup Power is Essential This Season

The 2024 fall and winter seasons are expected to bring a high risk of extreme weather events, making backup power solutions a preparedness priority. Hurricanes and severe storms can significantly damage the power grid, leaving homes without electricity for days or weeks. A backup power source is not just about convenience; it’s about being prepared for the unexpected. The peace of mind that comes from knowing you can maintain essential functions, such as heating, cooking, and communication, during a power outage is invaluable. Generac is a global leader in energy technology and offers information and resources at https://www.generac.com/prepare/

(NewsUSA) - The Marine Toys for Tots Foundation is thrilled to announce a multi-year partnership with Richard Childress Racing that will highlight our year-round efforts to assist underprivileged children, at Christmastime and beyond! Austin Dillon’s No. 3 Toys for Tots Chevrolet will take to the track and #Drive for Hope!

"We couldn’t be more excited and honored to partner with the RCR team and display Toys for Tots’ official logo on the iconic No. 3 car with Austin Dillon in the driver’s seat. This partnership will allow us to be an even stronger force for good for disadvantaged children who so desperately need a reason to believe in a brighter tomorrow,” said LtGen Laster, USMC (Retired), CEO of the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation.

Marine Toys for Tots continues its mission of providing hope and emotional support to economically disadvantaged children through donations of toys, books, and other gifts at Christmastime and throughout the year. Because needs aren’t seasonal, Toys for Tots has evolved into a year-round force for good — ensuring that no child is forgotten any day of the year.

“With a new year comes new resolve to be an even stronger force for good—because children growing up in poverty deserve nothing less,” said LtGen Laster. “The partnership with RCR will open an entirely new avenue of exposure and support for the Toys for Tots Program to ensure that children living in poverty are provided with the hope that they so desperately need.”

Get ready for an unforgettable experience and tune in to the races to cheer on Austin Dillon as he combines speed with generosity to raise awareness and support for families and children in need!

Follow Marine Toys for Tots on social media to stay up to date as we countdown with RCR and Austin Dillon! Visit toysfortots.org to learn more and to support Toys for Tots' efforts to help underprivileged children all year round.

#DriveforHope with Austin Dillon and Toys for Tots!

(Constance Burke) - Lets talk brand Messaging, Lets talk brand Message. In today's world of Cooperative Reach in digital information and endless choices in agencies, LKPFM Corp directs campaigns making your brand and message stand out to the ideal customer at the right time with the right angle.  In fact, brand messaging is built through creativity and strong data. This takes, Time, Effort and access to proper recourses. Our NEW Online Access Point to Print, Newspaper, and Digital provides is this just that.

Smart strategies and innovative approaches are the keys to successfully deliver your message to your target audience. We are a communications company specializing in media placement, offering an approach he that will help you stay ahead of the competition and build your successful media campaign with Consultation and Directed Media to gain warm market new contacts and Guaranteed reads for your growth. 

“Determination, direction and perseverance of growth market potential will shape the future of online, print, and virtual communications in the modern era,” According to the LKPFM media team. “With Corporate Inception in 2016 our strength of continuity of service provides sustained messages, crafted stories and tailored communications to reach your desired market.”

Our media placement organizations, access 100+ million Americans in print newspapers as well as digital platforms, and provides reports of instant readership verification in your Campaigns.

Consider some of the most iconic brands, Simple Messaging "The Power of Brands' Investors Relations Message said it all as a Cooperative Reach in industry's driving success. from evolving scratch to existing companies all built their way to the top through smart marketing techniques that target their desired audiences "Adapt and Thrive"

LKPFM Corp is ready with immediate online service to help us create a standardized way for you of conveying your corporate values and products to the public through Daily Media Placements at a fraction of the cost of traditional advertising.

New access point allows brands, businesses, and entities wishing to communicate with U.S. markets to register through a portal for creating approved news copy. The platform allows for easy dissemination of syndicated copy directing the build a consistent and effective message for target markets. The extensive placement helps build investor confidence as well, with demonstrated effectiveness for delivering tangible sales and results to upcoming and established markets.

The syndication network ensures that your stories are placed direct to consumers nationwide through media outlets that they regularly read, viewed, trusted and tracked. Specific services include campaign design, marketing research consulting, and editorial content/PR writing.

For more information about how to share your brand to the right audience and stay ahead of the competition, visit lkpfm.com.

(NewsUSA) - Nearly half of Americans (46%) report eating at least three snacks per day, according to research from data insights firm Circana. While many people reach for not-so-healthy snacks, there are many options for intentional snacking on foods that are deliciously indulgent and pack a nutritional punch.

Kiwifruit is one example of a food perfectly suited for smart snacking. These fuzzy little fruits are packed with vitamins and flavor. Just one serving of kiwifruit contains more vitamin C than 2 oranges! Also, kiwifruit delivers 89% of the recommended daily amount of vitamin K, which helps the body make proteins needed for blood clotting and bone-building.

Want better digestion? Kiwifruit has 5 grams of fiber in a one-cup serving (21% of the recommended daily value). Just slice, scoop, and enjoy! Kiwifruit also provides 21% of the recommended daily amount of potassium, which plays a role in maintaining heart health.

Kiwifruit are available from California during the fall and winter months, but at this time of the year, the kiwifruit you'll see at your local supermarket comes from Chile. With its location in the Southern Hemisphere, Chile offers access to many of the fruits we love during the opposite season from when they are available in the United States!

The easiest way to eat a kiwifruit is to simply slice and scoop, but kiwifruit makes a colorful and refreshing addition to many dishes and drinks, both sweet and savory. If you want to take your kiwifruit snacks up a notch, try these easy, tasty recipes.

 Kiwifruit Parfait: This parfait is a simple treat that feels fancy and tastes great at any time of day. Peel and chop 5 Chilean kiwis into bite-sized pieces. Layer the pieces in a tall glass or pint-sized jar with granola and yogurt. Drizzle honey on top for an extra dose of yum!

Tropical Smoothie: A quick and savory smoothie is perfect for busy mornings. Blend 4 Chilean kiwis, 1 banana, 1 cup of spinach, and half a cup of milk in a blender or food processor. Pour into a glass or mug, or take along in an insulated cup or thermos and enjoy a nutritious, delicious start to the day.

For more information and recipe ideas, visit fruitsfromchile.com/recipes.

(NewsUSA) - As children return to school, families can employ various strategies to turn mundane questions such as, "How was your day?" into meaningful conversations. These tips can help children open up, easing any jitters or anxieties they may be feeling.

"You don’t have to set aside a specific time in your day to have impactful discussions with your child,” said Ariel Bronson, KinderCare Inclusion Services Advisor. “You can take advantage of small moments in your everyday schedule to build on your relationship with your child, leading to deeper conversations and connection over time.”

1. Set the scene and get involved. Take time during your family's daily routine to spark conversations with your child, whether during a commute, mealtime, bath time or an afternoon walk. Conversations in trusted, familiar environments will help your child feel more at ease and more willing to open up to you.
2. Leave questions open-ended and use patience. Allow your children to lead the conversation and use their answers to build on it. Listen patiently instead of jumping into problem-solving. The goal is to build a conversation around connection rather than control. The more you learn about your child’s day and are involved in their schedules, the more topics you have to discuss.
3. Use focused prompts to keep conversations going. If your discussions still lead to dead ends, try focusing on a specific topic. What are your child’s interests? For example, you could use art class or a sporting practice as a thought starter. “What did you do at [insert activity] today?” This will help spark a memory for your child, allowing you to build on their response. You can also encourage your child to reflect on their day. “What was something you learned, liked, saw or noticed today?” Help guide your child through each topic.
4. Encourage your child to connect with their emotions. Deepen your conversation by asking questions like, “What was something unexpected that happened today? When did you feel excited? How were you brave?” Do the same for questions related to their peers, such as, “When did you notice a classmate being kind today?” This will allow your child to recognize and understand how feelings impact us.
5. Explore non-verbal conversations. If your child doesn’t want to talk or has limited speech capabilities, try starting a family journal and leave prompts for your child to write about and a place for them to ask you questions. This tactic is also helpful when navigating more challenging topics. For younger children, you could have them draw what they felt during the day or something that they enjoyed as a way to share.

For more conversational tips on how to jumpstart impactful conversations with children, visit KinderCare.com.

(National Psoriasis Foundation) - You’ve seen the commercials. Psoriasis treatments are everywhere. So it would follow that people with psoriasis can also be found everywhere, right? In theory, yes. About 3 percent of all people will develop psoriasis – a chronic, inflammatory disease that can have severe consequences and comes with an unwelcome increased risk of several related diseases. But what the numbers don’t show is the impact that shame and stigma can have and the unintended consequences of those feelings.

More than 125 million people worldwide live with psoriasis. If you attend a National Football League game this fall or winter, you’ll be in a stadium with more than 2,000 people who have developed psoriasis. Or maybe music is more your thing. If you saw Taylor Swift at the average Eras Tour venue in the U.S., about 2,300 of your fellow Swifties in attendance were living with this lifelong disease.

When you frame it that way and think about all the psoriasis drug commercials filling up your screen, it may sound like the disease is well understood – even normalized. But the results of the new Psoriasis Health Indicator Report bring a dark reality to light: Misunderstandings about psoriasis and the people who live with this disease are rampant. Worse yet, stigma about the disease is a contributing factor to people living in isolation or not seeking care.

Misunderstandings Have Consequences

According to the report, more than half of the people in the U.S. who do not live with psoriasis say they would be uncomfortable dating someone with the disease, and more than 40 percent say they wouldn’t even be comfortable shaking hands with someone living with psoriasis.

How would you feel if 1 in 3 people were uncomfortable having you in their home? Yes, another sad reality laid out in the report. What about if 1 in 4 people were closed off to being your friend because of a disease you live with? Ouch.

With so much stigma – such a drastic level of misunderstanding and downright discrimination – would you be open about your life with psoriasis? Would you be willing to pursue treatment?

Psoriasis is not contagious, but it is a public health concern. People with this disease are at an elevated risk for heart disease, type 2 diabetes, psoriatic arthritis, and depression. All of those risks – as well as the threat of developing more severe psoriasis – increase when the disease is left untreated. Booking an appointment with a healthcare provider is hard enough. But carrying around all the stigma-driven shame that comes with having this visible disease makes the pursuit of proper disease management and treatment from a qualified specialist much more unlikely.

The Truth Heals

Tragically, all this stigma is a part of daily life for the 8 million people in the U.S. who live with psoriasis, but people are speaking out, and each time they do, the world gains a little more understanding. Take Takieyah Mathis of Fayetteville, North Carolina for example. She recently opened up in the National Psoriasis Foundation’s In Focus: #ThisIsPsoriasis video series about the challenges she faces each day with this disease and the lessons she’s learned. “Psoriasis put me in a big self-esteem hole,” she shares. “I started to worry about my hair, my skin.” Takieyah was constantly worried about who was looking at her because of the lesions on her skin.

Takieyah took some time to work up the resolve to face the stigma and the stares from onlookers, but as a model, mother, and community builder – psoriasis was not going to hold her back. With the support of her husband and community, she took back control of her self-belief. “You are not your diagnosis. Try to find ways that make you feel beautiful or feel good,” she says. “Finding that peace within yourself is really what’s going to carry you through every day.”

We all know someone with psoriasis. We owe it to them to promote encouragement and support in the face of judgement and misunderstanding. August is Psoriasis Action Month, and thanks to the increased attention, and stories like Takieyah’s who are combatting stigma head-on with the truth and their lived experience, the rest of the world is gaining a little added perspective and compassion.

To learn more about Takieyah or to hear from others who live with psoriasis, visit psoriasis.org/in-focus.

(NewsUSA) - From classic shapes to modern technologies, the progression of eyewear continues to see advancements, driven by the desire for improved comfort, durability, and style. Frames were often heavy and uncomfortable, but over the decades, eyewear has transformed significantly, influenced by technological advancements, and changing consumer demands.

As the eyewear journey continues to evolve, more attention is put on versatility in eyewear – innovative designs, improved materials, comfort, and style. Initially, frames were constructed from materials like bone and wood. While functional, frames were heavy and often lacked comfort. Today more brands, like Flexon Eyewear are developing innovative ways to utilize materials like memory metal to create comfortable eyewear.

Flexon Eyewear, a Marchon Eyewear proprietary brand known for its memory metal and durability, launched in 1988. With over 30 years of experience utilizing its durable technology and innovation, Flexon frames provide premium comfort designed for everyday wear. Each frame is constructed from a titanium-based alloy that allows them to be flexed, bent, and twisted without breaking, and they return to their original shape. Displayed in the latest Evolution and Heritage collections, flexibility and versatility make these frames exceptionally durable and able to seamlessly fit into daily tasks outside of work and new hobbies.

Flexon eyewear’s timeless design, durability, and sleek look allows these masculine optical styles to adjust seamlessly to various occasions. Whether enjoying a new adventure with the kids, taking on a new DIY project, or exploring the world outdoors, the brand showcases its continued commitment to durability and versatility with the creation of each frame. Flexon frames are crafted with technologically advanced memory metal in the bridge and/or temples allowing them to be flexed, bent, or twisted to ensure they can return to their original condition.

The journey of eyewear innovation doesn’t stop here. Brands like Flexon are at the front of eyewear innovation, continuously pushing the envelope of what functional eyewear can be. As technology advances, the future of eyewear promises even more exciting developments, blending fashion with function and durability in increasingly sophisticated ways. To learn more about Flexon Eyewear and stay up to date with recent collections, visit flexon.com. 

(NewsUSA) - Cutting back on single-use plastic is trending across America. A recent Ipsos survey indicates that 81 percent of American consumers support the increase of reusable packaging and that trend is increasingly more prevalent among grocery shoppers.

DS Smith, a leading provider of sustainable fiber-based packaging worldwide, has introduced a new line of boxes for everyday grocery shopping that can replace plastic bags still used in many stores.

Data from the U.S. International Trade Commission show that Americans use 102 billion plastic bags per year, and few are recycled. DS Smith, in partnership with its customers, works to support the transition to a circular economy that helps eliminate waste and pollution by design. Creating 100% recyclable or reusable packaging and encouraging consumers to phase out plastics, the company keeps materials in use for longer periods.

The Shop.able Carriers from DS Smith are 100% recyclable and reusable, and feature patented food-safe and water-resistant Greencoat coating technology. The durable, stackable boxes are made from renewable resources as well. Consumer surveys suggest that shoppers who purchase groceries online are interested in deliveries with less packaging and more sustainable material.

“The Shop.able Carrier product line gives consumers the ability to potentially remove the billions plastic bags used across the United States each year while at the same time delivering convenience and sustainability to consumers’ day-to-day shopping experience,” according to DS Smith Managing Director, Packaging, Steven Rose. “This kind of innovative, sustainable packing solution will help communities move away from single-use plastic bags.”

Supermarkets can use Shop.able to create custom branded boxes and incorporate sponsored logos and messaging from other partner brands. Individual Shop.able Carrier boxes sell for prices similar to reusable totes, and each box can replace between 5 and 7 plastic bags. Supermarkets can sell the boxes at checkout and use them as a loyalty program benefit in online curbside pick-up orders. Other key features include a modular design for smooth stacking and ergonomic handles for easy carrying.

Visit dssmith.com/us to learn more.

(NewsUSA) - This year, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicts an 85% chance of an above-normal Atlantic hurricane season. So far, this has held true with storms Beryl and Debby already making landfall. Hurricanes can be catastrophic for any business, but particularly for rural small businesses. While there are many things that need to be done to be prepared for hurricanes, one important item is ensuring connectivity. In the aftermath of these storms, infrastructure is frequently damaged, and internet access is unavailable. One connectivity option is satellite internet service. Its reliability can provide backup communications, ensuring optimal operations and connectivity after even the most severe storms.

All businesses can benefit from satellite internet, however, rurally located small businesses have the most to gain in terms of connectivity and communication during hurricane season. Fortunately, a proper satellite internet connection can equip them with disaster and emergency communication capabilities, as well as reliable business continuity.

Disaster and Emergency Communication

In the aftermath of severe weather, businesses can provide necessary products and services if they are able to open their doors and complete transactions. Reliable satellite internet allows businesses to get connected, open their doors, and mitigate the trauma associated with severe weather events. In addition to processing transactions, the business can also become an information hub for the local community, providing updated information and other communication services.

Emergency response teams depend on communication to know where they need to deploy their resources. A business that has reliable connectivity can be of great help to these dedicated professionals who are coming to the aid of the community.

Back Up and Running

For most businesses, when internet service goes down, so do operations. Which is why relying on a single form of connectivity can create challenges in communication. When severe weather events occur, traditional communication networks can be unreliable, isolating impacted areas. In these situations, satellite internet is an ideal backup connectivity option and can restore operations in even the most hard-to-reach areas.

Despite internet outages that may exist from damaged wirelines, businesses utilizing satellite internet preserve the ability to process online transactions, accept payment via credit cards, respond to customers, monitor security, and many other critical operations.

To prepare for any weather event, including hurricane season, small businesses should consider a reliable and flexible backup solution. Hughesnet Internet Continuity seamlessly delivers broadband internet when primary service fails, preventing costly, frustrating, and even dangerous outages. Ensuring small businesses are well-prepared for hurricane season will minimize disruptions, safeguard customers and employees, and keep business on track.

(NewsUSA) - The U.S. economy remains dynamic and robust, but continued focus on advanced manufacturing is needed to cement U.S. leadership in industries of the future, according to experts at the Special Competitive Studies Project (SCSP), a nonprofit and nonpartisan initiative with a goal of making recommendations to strengthen America's long-term competitiveness in artificial intelligence (AI).

As China seeks to position advanced industries as the main growth engine of its economy, U.S. leadership in AI, and increased investment in cloud infrastructure and enterprise-scale AI could help accelerate innovation in technology, SCSP experts wrote in a recent online article.

Currently, the U.S. is falling behind China in production capacity for advanced industries including semiconductors and clean energy. These areas are crucial to America’s economic competitiveness and national security, and the U.S. production of the world’s high-tech goods has fallen from more than 40% to 18% since 1980.

To maximize U.S. advantages and remain competitive in advanced industries on a global scale, the SCSP experts propose a three-pronged strategy with focus on production, markets, and people.

Begin with production. Invest in manufacturing-innovation programs and promote the adoption of advanced technologies by small and medium-size manufacturers. The U.S. should also create incentives for investment in “smart factories” that capitalize on ways to accelerate innovation with increased flexibility and lower cost.

Secure the markets. Develop a trade policy that secures supply chains for products such as Internet of Things modules, networking components and industrial robots, and reduces reliance on China for production.

Promote and support the workforce. A comprehensive techno-industrial strategy requires investments in human capital. Advanced industries in the U.S. continue to face crippling workforce shortages. Strategies to overcome these shortages include ensuring AI capability in all school classrooms by 2030, lowering immigration barriers for highly-skilled workers, and creating national workforce frameworks for advanced manufacturing.

Although the U.S. economy is on a strong footing, China’s shift toward advanced industries sets the stage for a potential economic and strategy advantage. However, the U.S. can leverage its own existing advantages by proactively driving investments in advanced manufacturing, pursuing a strategic trade policy, and strengthening its workforce, according to SCSP.

Read SCSP's Vision for Competitiveness: Mid-Decade Opportunities for Strategic Victory and visit scsp.ai to learn more.