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Take care of your vision to invest in your overall health

(BPT) - A new year is a great opportunity to develop better habits and improve your health and wellness. Perhaps that involves revamping your workout routine or investing in a skincare regimen. As you start to think about the new year, make sure to include a comprehensive eye exam at the top of your list.

A normal part of aging

Just like the rest of your body, your eyes change as you age, and you may find it harder to see. You're not alone. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than two billion people around the world suffer from visual impairment, a number expected to double by 2030.¹

While these numbers may be concerning, take heart. Many vision conditions are treatable. A step you can take today to assess and preserve your vision — as well as your health — is to schedule a comprehensive eye exam.

Your eyes are windows into your overall health and wellness

An eye care professional can do much more than assess your vision. Your eyes can actually reveal many details about your overall health and wellness.

A comprehensive eye exam can help detect over 270 different medical conditions, from diabetes to heart disease.² Despite its importance, many adults over 40 around the globe tend to prioritize staying active, maintaining a healthy diet or skincare over regular eye exams in their journey to aging well.

"Not only can an eye exam assess the health of your eye," said Dr. Christi Closson, Associate Director of Professional Education, Vision, Johnson & Johnson, "it can do so much more, such as providing insight into your overall health and well-being as you age.² It is critical for everyone to stay on top of their vision and eye health, and make time for an annual comprehensive eye exam."

Presbyopia and cataracts: Common age-related vision conditions

If you're over 40, it's critical that you're aware of common vision conditions and their symptoms.

Presbyopia — another name for age-related farsightedness — describes a person's decreased ability to see nearby objects, especially in low light.⁴ For example, you may notice that it's become more difficult to read texts on your phone, so you hold it at arm's length.

"As you age, the lens inside your eye becomes more rigid, making it difficult for your eyes to focus on text or objects that are up close," said Dr. Closson. "However, presbyopia happens to everyone and is easily treatable. In fact, there are multifocal contact lenses designed to help with this vision impairment without invasive interventions."

Another condition to be aware of as you age (especially if you're over 60) is cataracts. A physical sign of cataracts is clouding in the eye that makes it hard to see. However, you may also notice that lamps, sunlight and headlights seem too bright or that colors look faded.⁵ If left untreated, cataracts can lead to blindness.

Modern technological advancement has made cataract treatment a minimally invasive out-patient procedure that typically takes 15 to 30 minutes to complete, depending on the severity of the condition. Cataract treatment* can also improve other eye conditions like nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism.⁶

See clearly now and beyond

If you want to live your best while feeling your best at every age, it's time to get serious about your eye health. To find an eye doctor near you and schedule a comprehensive eye exam, visit ClearVisionForYou.com/Find-A-Doctor.

References

1. World Health Organization. Increasing eye care interventions to address vision impairment. Available at: https://www.who.int/publications/m/item/increasing-eye-care-interventions-to-address-vision-impairment#:~:text=Globally%2C%20at%20least%202.2%20billion,%2Dincome%20countries%20(LMICs).

2. American Optometric Association. See the Full Picture of Your Health with an Annual Comprehensive Eye Exam. Available at: https://www.aoa.org/healthy-eyes/caring-for-your-eyes/full-picture-of-eye-health?sso=y.

3. Mayo Clinic at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/presbyopia/symptoms-causes/syc-20363328

4. National Eye Institute. Cataracts. Available at: https://www.nei.nih.gov/learn-about-eye-health/eye-conditions-and-diseases/cataracts.

5. American Refractive Surgery Council. Cataract Surgery. Available at: https://americanrefractivesurgerycouncil.org/cataract-surgery/#:~:text=Vision%2DCorrecting%20IOLs?-,Cataract%20surgery%20removes%20the%20clouded%20natural%20lens%20and%20replaces%20it,nearsightedness%2C%20farsightedness%2C%20and%20astigmatism.

2025PP04024

* RISKS

There are risks to routine cataract surgery. This is irrelevant to the lens you choose. The problems could be minor, temporary, or affect your vision permanently. Complications are rare. These may include worsening of your vision, bleeding, or infection. Pre-existing diseases or conditions may place you at higher risk of experiencing complications (e.g., more difficult recovery) after routine cataract surgery. Examples of pre-existing diseases or conditions are diabetes, heart disease and previous trauma to your eye.

With some IOLs, you may experience some loss in the sharpness of your vision, even with glasses. With these IOLs, you may have more difficulty driving at night or in poor visibility conditions. This can affect your ability to detect road hazards as quickly at night or in fog. You may also experience halos (rings around light), glare (reflected light, making it difficult to see) and starbursts (rays around light). A small number of patients may want to have their IOL removed. This can be due to lens-related optical/visual symptoms. You should discuss all risks and benefits with your eye doctor before surgery.

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I am your Eyeball Acquisition Specialist. Success in life, in anything, depends upon the number of persons that one can make himself agreeable to. US online shopping has been growing in popularity over the past few years, as evidenced by the increasing number of people choosing to purchase goods and services over the internet. Bigdoggpinc is helping solidify trust from gaining your confidence 1 person at a time if I have to.

Color your kitchen: Butter makes everything better

(BPT) - The psychology of color reveals what most people already know: Color can evoke strong emotions. Members of the design team at Whirlpool Corporation are well versed in how color impacts mood, which is one of the reasons they spent years researching color trends to identify the best possible choice for the KitchenAid^® 2025 Color of the Year: Butter.

"The Color of the Year program is specifically led by the Whirlpool Color, Finish, and Material team. We spend years analyzing interior design, social, cultural and aesthetic trends to help determine the new Color of the Year — a decision that is often many years in the process," said Brittni Pertijs, Design Manager: Color, Material and Finish at Whirlpool Corporation. "Color of the Year focuses on a specific colorway to express the emotions people want to feel that year."

This year's choice for Color of the Year: Butter

It's not just for baking anymore! This modern yellow with a creamy, satin finish imparts a uniquely comforting vibe, with a nostalgic aura all its own.

"As a result of our trend tracking, our team saw yellow continually pop up," said Pertijs. "Knowing we wanted to tap into comfort and nostalgia, this soft, energizing butter yellow felt like the perfect marriage of all those elements."

According to a 2024 online Ipsos Survey*, nearly 3 in 4 consumers (72%) agree that a buttery yellow color radiates warmth and comfort, and 67% associate the color with a sense of richness and creaminess — making it a top choice for creating a welcoming atmosphere in the kitchen. More than half (52%) connect the hue with comforting homemade meals, and the same percentage agree that a buttery yellow color transports them back to nostalgic childhood memories. A majority of consumers (64%) also connect this color to the simple pleasures in life.

"The color yellow has the ability to transport you back in time, evoking some of your warmest memories," added Pertijs. "The color might remind people of kitchens from the 1950s or 1960s that were decorated with a similar soft yellow color. While it echoes past kitchens, Butter feels fresh and modern, leaning into present-day design trends. It's a classic neutral that will last over the years."

Design tips: How to make the most of this year's color

To maximize the warm, comfy vibes of this year's Color of the Year, you can choose to upgrade to the new KitchenAid^® Stand Mixer in Butter. The Butter Stand Mixer works well as a design feature in any style of home, from eclectic and traditional styles to clean and contemporary spaces. It's also created to fit in perfectly with the latest kitchen designs and finishes.

While some may recall the Majestic Yellow color, "that was developed in 1995, which was reflective of interior trends such as red cherry woods and glossy countertop finishes. The new Butter model represents today's design trends, in which woods are more natural and countertops are matte and satin," explained Pertijs.

For anyone looking to accessorize or update their kitchen this year, the Butter Stand Mixer complements various shades of blue well, including periwinkle blue. If you're looking to mix and match it with other appliances, Butter looks great with the KitchenAid Blue Velvet colorway, or more muted tones like sage green.

Pertijs also recommends pairing the Butter Stand Mixer with the KitchenAid^® Bread Bowl attachment: "They go together like bread and butter (pun intended)!"

Make your kitchen more cozy, comforting and welcoming this year with the rich color of Butter. You can learn more about this year's KitchenAid^® Stand Mixer Color of the Year at KitchenAid.com.

*Source: An online Ipsos survey in the US, UK, MX, DE, CA, AUS (n=1,000 per country), general population, 18 years of age and older. Data is nationally representative by age, gender, race/ethnicity and region. The survey was fielded between September 27-October 1, 2024.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Here are some auto insurance statistics recently released from Forbes:

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

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

Mercury offers the following tips for lowering your insurance costs:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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A New Era in Compact Sedans: Innovative Design and Advanced Features

(BPT) - Discover the 2025 Kia K4, a compact sedan that is redefining its class. Featuring bold fastback styling and a sleek, aerodynamic profile, the K4 provides class-leading rear leg and headroom for a spacious and comfortable ride. Inside, the K4 features a nearly 30-inch digital display, standard wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and the advanced Digital Key 2.0 for seamless connectivity and convenience. The Kia Connect voice assistant adds a modern touch, allowing control of various vehicle functions with simple voice commands.

K4’s extensive driver assistance features include up to 29 options like the Blind-Spot View Monitor and emergency evasive steering assist, enhancing confidence on every drive. Standard features such as Intelligent Speed Limit Assist and Lane Keeping Assist ensure a secure driving experience, while the advanced cruise control system provides ease and convenience on the road.

Choose from two powertrains: a 147-horsepower 2.0-liter engine or a turbocharged 190-horsepower 1.6-liter engine, both delivering a responsive and enjoyable driving experience. Premium touches like heated and ventilated front seats, Harman Kardon audio, and an available panoramic sunroof further enhance comfort. Available in five trims, including the sporty GT-Line and GT-Line Turbo, the K4 suits a variety of styles. Backed by Kia’s 10-year/100,000-mile limited warranty, the K4 is designed to offer peace of mind.

Learn more about the K4 and Kia America’s lineup of vehicles at www.kia.com.

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Local Festivals: The Heartbeat of Communities

(BPT) - From the taste of cotton candy to the march of a parade, there's a unique magic in every community festival. Travel across the country, and you'll find that while many festivals have a lot in common, they also serve their communities in very specific ways. Beyond the food, sights and sounds, community festivals tell a story of people coming together.

Across the nation, festivals are vital for fostering community connections, boosting local economies and celebrating local heritage. Not only do festivals create a sense of pride and belonging, but they also attract visitors, generating tourism revenue that supports local businesses. Through these gatherings, communities can preserve their cultural heritage while also building new traditions and fostering shared memories.

The Norborne Soybean Festival, Hayward Musky Festival and Roseau Fall Harvest Festival all exemplify the value local festivals provide towns. Each of these festivals embodies the power of community gatherings, from drawing in thousands of visitors who contribute to local commerce to preserving traditions that might otherwise fade over time. By looking closely at these examples, we can see firsthand the positive impacts festivals have on their communities and understand why they are so important.

A Celebration of Community in Norborne

Each year, just as the summer nights get shorter, Norborne, Missouri, comes alive for the Norborne Soybean Festival, a cherished celebration of community and agriculture. The weekend is full of parades, competitions, games, rides and food. But it's not just about the soybeans or the rides or the music — it's about Norborne itself, its people, its past, and its hope for the future. The festival is a celebration of community, of togetherness and of tradition.

"Norborne shares a deep-rooted passion for preserving and celebrating our community's spirit and unity," said Kyle Durham, organizer of the Norborne Soybean Festival. "Every year, we watch this festival bring our community together. When we spend time together, we get stronger."

Strengthening the Economy and Culture in Hayward

In Hayward, Wisconsin, the Musky Festival is a beloved annual event that celebrates the region's rich fishing heritage, particularly its reputation as a premier destination for musky fishing. Held each summer in the heart of Hayward, the festival draws locals and visitors alike for a weekend of fun, food and festivities centered around the famed freshwater fish, the muskellunge (commonly known as the musky).

"The Musky Festival plays a vital role in boosting the local economy by attracting visitors, supporting local vendors and promoting regional businesses," said Chris Ruckdaschel, Executive Director, Hayward Area Chamber of Commerce. "What may seem like just a fun festival, actually has a huge economic impact on our town. Everyone benefits when we come together."

Honoring the Past in Roseau

Across the border in Roseau, Minnesota, the Fall Harvest Festival is an annual celebration that brings the community together to mark the end of the harvest season and the onset of autumn. Rooted in the town's rich agricultural traditions, this celebration showcases local culture, community spirit and the hardworking ethos of the region. As the festival continues to thrive, it plays a vital role in preserving the area's history and ensuring that future generations can appreciate the heritage of this hardworking community.

"We have a lot of pride for Roseau. We also have a passion for preserving and remembering the history of Roseau," said Sinnamon Krings, Roseau Promotions Director. "The Fall Harvest Festival is a chance for the community to come together, remember our roots and celebrate the traditions that have shaped Roseau."

More than a Festival

The heart of a community festival isn't just in the attractions but in the stories shared between neighbors and friends who meet at the same corner year after year. For Norborne, Hayward and Roseau, their local festivals foster community connections, boost their economies, and preserve their local heritage.

How the Cenex^® Brand is Supporting Local Festivals

To support these festivals and celebrate all they do to create stronger community connections, Cenex^®, the energy brand of CHS Inc., has launched year two of Hometown Throwdown; a contest encouraging local pride by asking individuals and organizations to share what makes their hometown festival unique. The entry period for the competition is open now through February 7, 2025. Individuals and organizations can nominate their festivals online through the Hometown Throwdown online entry form. Once the entry period has closed, five finalists will be announced on May 1, 2025, and voting will open May 1 through May 31, 2025. The grand prize winner and four other prize winners will be picked after voting closes in accordance with the rules and will be announced on June 17, 2025. The grand prize winner will receive $100,000, the runner-up will take home $20,000, third place will be awarded $15,000, fourth place will receive $10,000 and the fifth-place winner will take home $5,000.

Visit CenexHometownThrowdown.com for more information.

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