May / June 2020 InFluential Magazine

T HE A RT O F LI V IN G W ELL WWW.INFLUENTIAL-MAGAZINE.COM MAY / JUNE 2020

TEXAS ARCHITECT

MICHAEL HSU

3 Things to

PROVIDES DESIGN TIPS TO DEFINE YOUR WORK FROM HOME SPACE AND MAXIMIZE PRODUCTIVITY

Know About

Asthma

Expressing Sympathy During This New Normal

EXCLUSIVE

LOUIS

MANDYLOR IS LIVING HIS DREAM

AND IS BETTER FOR IT!

YOU ARE

AN ORIGINAL! PHOTOGRAPHY BY ISABELLE RUEN

CONTENTS

IN FLUENCE FAMILY LIVING

32 | Give Your Old Vehicle a Makeover 34 | How and Why to Keep Kids

on a Schedule During School Closures 36 | Tap into Employer Benefit Resources in Times of Uncertainty FASHION & STYLE

40 | Introducing New Fashion Brand of Sustainable Affordable T-Shirts for Men and Women 46 | Featuring M·A·C Selena la Reina FINANCE

66 | How to Talk to Your Children

About Tough Money Matters

68 | Now’s the Time to Focus

on Financial Health in the Workplace

[

FASHION EDITORIAL 52 | YOU ARE AN ORIGINAL!

]

TRAVEL

122 | Take Travel Online

5 Ideas for a Virtual Family Adventure

FEATURE 12 | TEXAS ARCHITECT MICHAEL HSU PROVIDES DESIGN TIPS TO DEFINE YOUR WORK FROM HOME SPACE AND MAXIMIZE PRODUCTIVITY 88 | 4 SAFE WAYS TO CONNECT WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS WHILE PRACTICING SOCIAL DISTANCING 96 | STATE OF MIND: TIPS TO MANAGE STRESS DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC #STAYATHOME MANDATE 114 | WHERE DIFFERENT TASTES MEET: ALAÇATI

FOOD & BEVERAGE

72 | Unleash Your Inner Home Chef 74 | All-Day Nutrition 78 | Nutritious Eating at Home

82 | 5 Fun Facts About The Original Margarita

INFLUENTIAL SPOTLIGHT 16 | FEATURING ACTRESS EMANUELA BOISBOUVIER

HEALTH & WELLNESS

84 | This Bottle Turns Water into Alkaline

Antioxidant Water On-The-Go 86 | Expressing Sympathy During This New Normal 92 | How to Build a Women’s Health Toolkit During the COVID-19 Crisis 94 | Caregiving and COVID-19: Tips for People with Vulnerable Family Members 102 | Take Action to Breathe Better 104 | 3 Things to Know About Asthma 106 | Fact vs. Fiction: Drugs and Alcohol in TV, Movies, and Social Media 108 | Understanding When a Headache Isn’t Just a Headache 4

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EXCLUSIVE 22 | CHRISTINA WEHRY HAS A PASSION FOR HELPING OTHERS 126 | LOUIS MANDYLOR IS LIVING HIS DREAM AND IS BETTER FOR IT!

IN NETWORK PEOPLE YOU SHOULD KNOW

112 | Tyce Miller

EDITORIAL CREDITS

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CHIEF BUSINESS OFFICER / EDITOR-IN-CHIEF / CHIEF CREATIVE DIRECTOR / CHIEF REVENUE OFFICER William Jackson, MBA, GQ Insider, 2018 Folio: 100 Honoree Round Rock, Texas EDITORIAL TEAM Beauty Editor Kelli Ponce Fashion & Style and Technology Editor William Jackson, MBA, GQ Insider, 2018 Folio: 100 Honoree Health & Wellness Editor Ingrid Garner

WRITING TEAM Contributing Writer Gary Small, M.D. Guest Contributing Writer William Jackson, MBA, GQInsider, 2018 Folio: 100 Honoree ART & PRODUCTION Creative Services What Taller Gráfico Argenis Gudino Jose Luis Venegas Quintero Contributing Photographers Chase Daniel M·A·C Isabelle Ruen Cesar Uribe www.goturkey.com.

YJACK LETTERS TO THE EDITOR shall be signed with a full name; please include a daytime phone number, full mailing address, or e-mail address.

Letters shall be no longer than 300 words.

We reserve the right to edit all submissions.

Letters may not be edited, added to, or changed by the sender once we receive them.

For Beauty inquiries please email our Beauty Editor, Kelli Ponce Kelli@influential-magazine.com.

ACTOR LOUIS MANDYLOR PHOTOGRAPHY BY ISABELLE RUEN GROOMING STYLED BY STARR SARKISYAN PHOTOGRAPHY ASSISTANT / DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY JEREMY LYNN

For Health & Wellness inquiries please email our Health & Wellness Editor, Ingrid Garner Ingrid@influential-magazine.com.

For Public Relations inquiries please email pr@influential-magazine.com.

For general information inquiries please email info@influential-magazine.com.

Our mailing address InFluential Magazine, P.O. Box 1307, Round Rock, Texas 78680

Members of W. Jackson & Associates are BMI affiliates American Graphic Design Award Winning Magazine Recipient of the Lux Life 2018 Entertainment Awards for Best Lifestyle Magazine 2018 – Texas Recipient of the American Graphic Design Award

For Letters to the Editor please email editor@influential-magazine.com.

For Fashion & Style and Technology inquiries please email William Jackson, MBA, GQ Insider, 2018 Folio 100 Honoree William@influenital-magazine.com.

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission from the Founder & Chief Business Officer.

All the rights of the artwork and photography belong to the Founder & Chief Business Officer.

InFluential Magazine is Round Rock, Texas owned and operated.

Greater Austin Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Capital of Texas Awards Univision Communication Media Award Finalist

MAY / JUNE 2020

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7

A NOTE FROM OUR PUBLISHER

I

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GREETINGS INFLUENTIAL MAGAZINE FAMILY, ’m so pleased you were able to gain access to our May / June edition of InFluential Magazine.

If you’re anything like me, I’m sure you’re feeling the months of March and April were very unprecedented.

We were happy to see many of you did take advantage of going online and visiting our website.

That’s where you can find the current and past issues of InFluential Magazine, Spanish InFluential, and Teen Influential keeping you up to date with informative articles.

If you’ve not had the opportunity to visit our site at www.influential-magazine.com, please do.

For the months of March and April, like many of you, I had been homebound, as I transitioned my office home in order to maintain social distancing.

The first few of weeks were fine, as I was able to accomplish many much-needed tasks around the house, as well as office work. After that; however, I started to miss the daily personal interaction with you. Staying home under these circumstances was not the kind of vacation I’d hope for. But hopefully soon, this too shall pass.

As I extend greetings this edition, my thoughts are with all of you, knowing so many are going through these challenging times with many concerns and hardships. These unprecedented times haven’t been easy for any of us physically, emotionally or financially.

You have our deepest concern and best wishes. Until we’re able to connect again, please be safe and remain hopeful.

Fondly,

William Jackson, MBA, GQ Insider, 2018 Folio: 100 Honoree Founder & Chief Business Officer of InFluential Magazine, Spanish InFluential, and Teen InFluential

MARCH / APRIL 2020

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FEATURE

TEXAS ARCHITECT

MICHAEL PROVIDES HSU DESIGN TIPS TO DEFINE YOUR WORK FROM HOME SPACE AND MAXIMIZE PRODUCTIVITY

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EVERYONE WAS SO BUSY BEFORE THE CORONAVIRUS SLOWED US DOWN. THIS IS A GOOD MOMENT TO REEVALUATE NOW THAT WE HAVE BEEN GIVEN THE TIME AND SPACE TO DO SO.

kPHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF

CHASE DANIEL

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FEATURE

T

hink about what kind of firm or company or person you want to be in the future. Ask yourself how this situation can improve your business or allow you to refocus on some of the things you’ve been struggling to find time to prioritize. This is an exceptional opportunity to examine, assess and rethink.

Michael Hsu, founder and principal architect at Michael Hsu Office of Architecture based in Austin, Texas, and as of last year - also now with an office in Houston, shares design tips for those who need inspiration to define their work from home space and maximize productivity.

Design tips for your at-home workspace from Michael Hsu who is also working from home: Create a dedicated workplace and define the space as such. This will allow you to better focus on work during work hours, and your personal life during off time. It’s best if it’s a space you can walk away from. l

l Make sure it’s functional - in addition to ensuring

you have the technology you need to get your work done, make sure you have all of the tools and resources around to do your work best. Invest in the items you have at your fingertips at the office so your productivity isn’t stifled. l Incorporate homey accessories with a variety of

textures and colors. This should be easy since you’re at home. Grab some of your favorite accessories from around the house and enhance your space.

Hang art that you love and inspires you in a place you can see. l

Take advantage of the distractions: Cook a big breakfast for your kids, take the dog for a mid-morning walk, call your mom over your lunch break. The current situation allows us to live and work a little differently, so explore what that means for you. l

space by a window with something to look at other than a screen.

Blend your inspirations: It’s impossible to separate your home and your work in this current environment, so see how you can use that to enhance your work. How does your family inspire you to design differently? How does working from home inspire you to design office spaces differently?

Embrace the changes and see how it makes you a better designer.

Make sure it’s comfortable - you’ll be spending a lot of hours here, so make sure you are cozy and content in the space.

Learn more about Michael Hsu and Michael Hsu Office of Architecture at www.hsuoffice.com. l

l

Incorporate plants and greenery. Plants have proven to reduce stress and even increase productivity.

They make an indoor space more comfortable and livable. l

l Incorporate natural light - preferably set up your

l

{

}

Michael Hsu, founder and principal architect at Michael Hsu Office of Architecture based in Austin, Texas, and as of last year - also now with an office in Houston, shares design tips for those who need inspiration to define their work from home space and maximize productivity.

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INFLUENTIAL SPOTLIGHT

Boisbouvier FEATURING ACTRESS

EMANUELA WE’RE PLEASED TO FEATURE LOS ANGELES BASED ACTRESS EMANUELA BOISBOUVIER.

kPHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF

E

CESAR URIBE PUBLIC RELATIONS PROVIDED BY SGG PUBLIC RELATIONS

manuela was born in San José, Costa Rica and moved with her family to Monaco when she was three years old. Raised by a Monégasque father and an Italian mother, she began acting at age thirteen when she took a summer program in Los Angeles at S.O.C.A.P.A.

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INFLUENTIAL SPOTLIGHT

During her high school years, Emanuela took part in school productions, before moving permanently to Los Angeles at age 17 to attend UCLA. There, she studied Political Science and Theater, and graduated Summa Cum Laude in 2018. During her time at UCLA she was cast in two productions, I Am the Wind directed by Charles Jin, and Nine directed by Aya Saleh. She acted in several short films, mostly directed by directors who graduated from one of the most prestigious film programs in the world, UCLA School of Theater Film and Television.

After graduating, Emanuela began expanding her network in entertainment. She acted in two CocaCola commercials, both aired internationally and directed by Elon Zlotnik and Nathan N’Guyen. She acted in more short movies, one of which, A New Verse

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directed by Cameron Thuman, was screened at the New Jersey Golden Door Film Festival, the Westfield International Film Festive, and at the 7th Annual Muestra Intergalactica Festival in Mexico, in which A New Verse was selected as an honorable mention. She has been a featured guest on Jaby Koay’s YouTube channel, which has 1.33 million subscribers.

Emanuela has been training at the prestigious Beverly Hills Playhouse with Art Cohan and Michael Yavnielli. She has also trained at the Groundlings School, one of the leading training programs in the country.

Emanuela is fluent in English, French, Italian, and Spanish. She has been dancing since age three; training in jazz, ballet, and contemporary. She competed in ski for seven years with the Monaco ski team. l

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INFLUENTIAL SPOTLIGHT

Boisbouvier FEATURING ACTRESS

EMANUELA

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EXCLUSIVE

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Christina Wehry

HAS A PASSION FOR HELPING OTHERS

A

CHRISTINA WEHRY HAS A PASSION FOR HELPING OTHERS BECOME PAIN FREE.

fter being hit by a bus in 2007, Christina’s back was never the same. She tried chiropractic, massage, and many types of healing methods before discovering through an MRI what was happening in her body. When she took ownership of her health, she was able to heal from her chronic pain. She became impassioned to help others do the same.

Christina graduated in 2008 from the University of Vermont. She is a licensed Holistic Health Practitioner and has worked in the integrative health field since 2015. With thousands of clinic hours under her belt, Christina uses a unique blend of corrective movement, nutrition, neuromuscular therapy, and health coaching to achieve an incredible resolution rate. She works with anyone who is coachable and motivated to get healthier and out of pain.

I’m pleased to share my exclusive interview with Christiana and learn about her passion for integrative medicine and the beneficial advice she shares for young women likewise interested in the practice of integrative medicine.

William Jackson: What is integrative medicine to you?

Christina Wehry: Integrative medicine is the collaboration of eastern and western medicine. It’s an acknowledgment of the value of ancient eastern healing techniques by western medicine. I work closely with a network General Practitioners and Pain Physicians to provide a lower level of intervention for the patients.

The work I do is the first stop. We see how the body responds and progress with more invasive interventions as the body requires.

kCHRISTINA WEHRY PAIN MANAGEMENT & CORRECTIVE MOVEMENT THERAPIST, HOLISTIC HEALTH PRACTITIONER, FITNESS INFLUENCER WWW.COMPLETEWELLBEING.CO WWW.INSTAGRAM.COM/CHRISTINAWEHRY

REPRESENTED BY WADJET PR BRIDGETTA TOMARCHIO WWW.INSTAGRAM.COM/WADJETPR PHOTOGRAPHY BY COURTESY OF ISABELLE RUEN WWW.INSTAGRAM.COM/ISABELLERUEN MAKE-UP CLAIRE PIAO WWW.INSTAGRAM.COM/CLAIREPIAO PHOTO ASSISTANT/DIGITAL TECH 4K FASHION WWW.INSTAGRAM.COM/4KFASHION PHOTOGRAPHED AT CONCRETE STUDIOS WWW.INSTAGRAM.COM/CONCRETESTUDIOSLA

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EXCLUSIVE

William: How has the practice evolved?

Christina Wehry: Over the past 50 years integrative medicine has gone from being fringe science to common practice (for many medical practitioners).

There are many well-regarded physicians who are responsible for that shift, who have devoted their careers to examining the value of meditation, yoga, massage, and other complementary alternative medical practices.

It is their work that has elevated the perception of the work I do; turned from something smelly hippies did to something capable of legitimate healing.

William: What subjects did you study while at the University of Vermont?

Christina: I went to a medical magnet high school and wanted to go to medical school. I come from a family of doctors and planned to continue the legacy. Part of the curriculum was a requirement to complete several internships in medical institutions. I found out I have an overly sensitive empathic response and couldn’t stop myself from passing out when anything penetrated the body, needle, scalpel, cleaning major wounds. I was really lost. I had wanted to be a doctor as long as I could remember. I tried veterinary medicine to see if it would be different, it wasn’t. I really didn’t know what I wanted to be after that.

I ended up majoring in Women’s Studies with a focus on Women in Business and double minored in public policy and religion. I focused on learning what I was passionate about and interested in. It wasn’t until years later I went back to school for what I do now.

William: Speak more to us about how you got into integrative medicine and why?

Christina: This started when I was a child. Both of my parents are doctors, but my mama was a hippie. I grew up on a farm. We had a gong on our front porch, rainsticks and drumheads next to the fireplace, and a full-size teepee in our woods. My mom taught me tai chi and yoga from a young age. I thought, and still think to be honest, my mother was the coolest human in the planet. I wanted to do everything she did. She

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meditated every day and was kind and seemed to make every person she met happier for having been near her.

I taught my first yoga class when I was in high school and thought it would be fun to be able to do that. The notion of teaching yoga came up again and again over a period of ten or so years. It was in 2014, when I had my major episode, I finally went into teacher training.

Let’s rewind for a moment here. My bus accident story is gnarly and fodder for an entirely different piece.

It’s important to note no imaging was done of my spine. I experienced severe chronic back pain for years.

Occasionally, my back would simply seize, and it would be days before I was able to leave my bed. In the spring of 2014, I woke up one morning and couldn’t walk. I wasn’t paralyzed, I could move, but I was in so much pain my body would not support my weight. It was terrifying. I had no idea what to do. Over the course of several months I got to the root of my back pain and decided I wanted to learn more about my body. I was sick of having outside opinions dictate my health care. I had so many experiences where practitioners disregarded what I said, were condescending, or just flat out rude. I wanted to be in a better position to understand what was going on in my body so I could make better decisions for myself. It wasn’t until I had gone through several programs, I decided this was what I wanted to offer the world.

I grew up in a family of doctors, was active my entire life, studied anatomy and physiology, and did not know how to move properly, did not understand how to eat, didn’t really know how to keep myself healthy. Being back in school and realizing this blew my mind. I felt it was necessary to be part of a movement of health professionals taking the time to educate patients. That became my mission.

William: How do you describe the joy you receive from helping others to live healthy and pain free?

Christina: There’s nothing more satisfying than hearing a client feels better. I have clients who have been in pain

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EXCLUSIVE

“

for years, have tried everything and are so frustrated.

When they feel better, have light in their eyes, and have surprise and joy, it’s a remarkable feeling.

William: Can you give us a few quick tips on basic things everyone can do to start getting healthy right now?

Christina: Four easy things everyone can start doing today: 1. Drink more water. You should drink a minimum of 1/2 your body weight in water every day.

2. Get good sleep. Your body needs at least seven hours of sleep a night.

3. Move every joint in every direction every day. The body wants to move. We tend to move in the same ways every day. It’s important to move in diverse ways, regularly.

4. Reduce your intake of common dietary causes of inflammation: a. Dairy b. Caffeine c. Alcohol d. Refined sugar e. Soy f. Wheat William: What’s your advice for young women interested in your field?

Christina: The patient must be the priority. The number one frustration I hear from clients, they don’t feel heard from their physicians. The therapeutic relationship does just as much, maybe more, than any intervention.

When the patient or client feels heard, safe, attended to, cared for, that’s when the healing happens. The most important thing any new therapist can do is learn how to create an effective therapeutic container.

If you aren’t sure if holistic or integrative health is right for you, intern somewhere, get some experience, see if it’s right for you, if it speaks to you. You only have your imagination until you’ve done the work.

Learn more about Christina Wehry, Pain Management & Corrective Movement Therapist, Holistic Health Practitioner, Fitness Influencer by visiting www.completewellbeing.co. l

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The patient must be the priority...

When the patient or client feels heard, safe, attended to, cared for, that’s when the healing happens.

”

Dress & Heels: Ted Baker

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Handbag: Yves Saint-Laurent Dress, coat & heels: Ted Baker

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EXCLUSIVE

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Christina Wehry

HAS A PASSION FOR HELPING OTHERS

Jacket, Tank & Heels: Ted Baker Denim: Madewell Belt: Salvatore Ferragamo

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IN FLUENCE

Family Living

GIVE YOUR

OLD VEHICLE A MAKEOVER

IF YOU’RE AT HOME WITH TIME TO WORK ON A PROJECT, ONE OF THE THINGS YOU CAN DO IS GIVE YOUR VEHICLE AN UPDATED LOOK. THE AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET OFFERS A VARIETY OF SPECIAL PRODUCTS AND ACCESSORIES THAT WILL ENABLE YOU TO TRANSFORM THE APPEARANCE OF ANY VEHICLE QUICKLY, EASILY AND AFFORDABLY.

A

ccording to the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), thousands of specialty parts are available that can give an older vehicle a completely new appearance. Whether your goal is to create a one-of-a-kind masterpiece or simply give a vehicle a fresh new look, a few simple upgrades is all it will take.

Start with the interior. Numerous products are available to update

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the inside of your vehicle, including aftermarket steering wheels, seat covers, instrument panels and dash kits. It’s easy and inexpensive to get a new steering wheel cover, or you can spend a bit more to replace it entirely with a more sporty or luxurious one.

Custom steering wheels come in a variety of shapes and styles, and are available in wood, leather or a hightech material.

FLUENTIAL MAY / JUNE 2020

Similarly, seat covers are relatively inexpensive, easy to install and are one of the most dramatic ways to impact the interior. Perhaps best of all, they come in thousands of colors and fabric combinations.

Seat covers can also be ordered with emblems or logos on them.

Continue with the exterior. For a new look outside the vehicle, consider a new grille, taillight surround, bumper, hitch or ground-effects kit.

Wheels and tires, both of which are among the most popular vehicle accessories, instantly update the look

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of a car or truck. Prices, styles and finishes vary greatly.

Go high-tech. If your vehicle is a few years old, consider modernizing it with electronics. Bluetooth-enabled devices, including navigation, video and audio systems, can be installed in just about any car or truck, regardless of its age.

Have good clean fun. Don’t underestimate the impact that a good cleaning can have on a vehicle. Wax and car care science is constantly evolving, allowing for a restoring program for almost any type of finish. Car care companies even offer special polishing tools that make giving your vehicle a professional facelift easy.

Add some color. If your paint is damaged and in need of a touch-up, automotive paint companies offer a robust color palette that makes color treatments a cinch. Another option is to go with a wrap, which will give your vehicle a new-paint look. Wraps come on rolls in a variety of colors and patterns, and when properly applied it does not damage the original surface of the car. In the future if you decide to change it, you can simply peel it off and lay on a different wrap.

The installation of many types of restyling parts is designed to be simple and can often be handled by anyone who approaches the job with reasonable care. But for best results, more involved makeovers including those that require paint or

bodywork or replacing components that have safety-related features, such as seat assemblies - should be done by professionals who have the tools and experience for that kind of work. SEMA represents the $44.6 billion specialty automotive industry, which provides appearance, performance, comfort, convenience and technology products for passenger and recreational vehicles. In addition to offering market research, legislative advocacy, training and product development support, SEMA helps businesses manage product data, such as weights and measures, descriptions, pricing, and UPC codes or application data, through its SEMA Data Co-op program. To learn more about SEMA Data Co-op, log on to www.semadatacoop.org. (BPT) l

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IN FLUENCE

Family Living

HOW AND WHY TO KEEP KIDS ON A SCHEDULE

DURING SCHOOL CLOSURES

1

l Just because there is no

formal school day doesn’t mean kids should sleep in or stay up late at night.

Keep the same bedtimes, wake-up routines and mealtimes you always maintained during a regular school week. Doing so will bookend the mornings and evenings with a sense of normalcy.

2

l Mimic a school day

to the best of your ability.

Use the distance-learning tools your child’s teachers offer as well as other educational apps and resources to have kids focus on different school subjects. This will help break up the day into little chunks just as would happen in the classroom. Be sure to build in time for art projects, exercise and music. Most importantly, don’t forget “recess.” If possible, allow

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SCHOOL CLOSURES HAVE FORCED FAMILIES NATIONWIDE TO READJUST TO THE CURRENT REALITY. HOWEVER, A SENSE OF STRUCTURE IS IMPORTANT FOR CHILDREN’S DEVELOPMENTAL GROWTH. TO CREATE A ROUTINE FOR YOUR KIDS THAT STICKS, CONSIDER THE FOLLOWING TIPS: kPHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF (C)

WAVEBREAKMEDIA / ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS children to play in the backyard where they can socially distance from neighbors, or set up an area of your home for playtime.

3

l Evenings are a good time

to relax and unwind together.

Play board games, watch your children’s favorite movies or even use the many resources available online to enjoy a virtual walking tour of a museum, botanical garden or zoo. This is also a good time to allow children to connect with their friends using video chat or with family members they are not currently able to see in-person.

4

l For many children, screens

are their greatest distraction.

For this reason, one of the best ways to ensure your children stay focused on the schedule you create for them is by managing their screen time.

One easy way to do so with less direct intervention from you (since you are likely busy yourself!) is by using a screen time monitoring and scheduling tool like the OurPact app.

Get started by signing up for a free account and pairing your children’s devices. From there, you will be able to manage devices remotely to create a schedule that keeps kids offline when they need to be focused on other things. It can also be customized to allow children to visit and use only certain learning sites or apps during particular hours of the day. Because this schedule lives on the children’s devices as well, you’ll be giving them the comfort of a routine. To learn more or download, visit OurPact.com.

During these challenging times, it can be tempting to let your family routine fly out the window. By using new tools such as distance-learning programming and schedule management apps, you can keep kids to a schedule that makes them ultimately happier and healthier. (StatePoint) l

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IN FLUENCE

Family Living

TAP INTO EMPLOYER

BENEFIT RESOURCES

IN TIMES OF UNCERTAINTY

W

ith uncertainty abound, now’s a good time to take stock of your physical and mental health and familiarize yourself with the resources available from your employer.

assistance programs, telemedicine or tele-behavioral health and app-based programs are low-cost solutions that allow people to connect with a professional on their own time when they’re experiencing a problem.

As part of a report on mental health, employee benefits company Unum found nearly three-quarters (74%) of working adults feel big life events can have a major impact on their mental health. Some top mental health triggers include a person’s health (69%), finances (67%), relationships (59%) and job satisfaction (52%).

Employee Assistance Programs An employee assistance program (EAP) often offers free and confidential assessments, short-term counseling, referrals and follow-up services to people who have personal or work-related concerns. EAPs address a wide range of issues affecting mental and emotional wellbeing, such as alcohol and other substance abuse, stress, grief, family problems and psychological disorders. Many EAPs also provide services to help caregivers, assist with financial planning or offer child care resources.

“With so many people experiencing major shifts in not only their work lives, but also potentially their health, finances and personal lives, now is a good time to know what resources are available,” said Laurie Mitchell, assistant vice president of global wellbeing and health at Unum.

Often linked with a health care or disability plan’s coverage, employee

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FOR MANY AMERICAN WORKERS, HOW THEY DO THEIR JOBS DRAMATICALLY CHANGED WITH THE SPREAD OF COVID-19.

SOME HAVE SHIFTED TO WORKING FROM HOME WHILE OTHERS MOVED TO PART-TIME OR REDUCED HOURS.

portive of colleagues who may be struggling as well,” Mitchell said.

“Especially during this time of uncertainty, offering support to others and knowing where to direct them can improve lives and help create a more inclusive work environment.”

Telemedicine and App-Based Mental Health Solutions Telemedicine services can make accessing medical and mental health resources easier. There are even apps that can target specific mental health needs, and people can access them on their own time when they need the services. These types of tools can be effective complements to traditional care and help with everything from increasing positivity and efficiency to reducing stress and anxiety.

“Employees should ask their human resources department what resources are available and be sup-

In addition, the report found 93% of human resources professionals say their companies offer an EAP, yet only 38% of employees said they’re aware of the resource. More than half of human resources professionals also said they offer financial counseling, legal services and telemedicine services, but only a fraction of employees reported being aware these services exist.

As businesses chart new ways of working, these types of tools can help employees establish new ways of interacting with support services when in-person options may not be available. Even if you’re not struggling now, as you navigate this uncertain time, consider asking your employer what resources you have access to that can help support your physical and mental wellbeing.

To download the mental health report and learn about other employee benefit resources, visit Unum. com/workwell. (Family Features) l

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IN FLUENCE

Fashion & Style

I

n recognition of Earth Day back in April, we must bring awareness and celebrate sustainably minded fashion brands.

Made from sustainably sourced EXFINA cotton, YJACK’s Spring/Summer 2020 collection of sophisticated t-shirts for men and women are genuinely crafted with ecofriendly labeling and packaging. With sustainability being of the utmost importance, the brand is proud to offer its customers tagless labeled t-shirts, that maximize comfort and reduce waste, in packaging that can be repurposed to store your belongings or at home as a coaster for beverages. The brand’s affordable t-shirts elevate the iconic wardrobe staple proving even the most basics of basics can be improved on in more ways than one.

To overcome the disadvantages of 100% cotton fabrics, YJack developed EXFINA COTTON, a superior quality cotton fabric. Made with Extra Long Staple Cotton Yarn (ELS) and after undergoing EXFINA COTTON Unique Treatment (EUT), EXFINA COTTON is the main ingredient in YJack’s Spring/Summer 2020 collection. For men, the brand offers the James Relaxed and Classic Fit Tee in White, Black, Navy and Heather Grey. For women, the Jessie Classic Fit Tee is available in a classic crew neck, v-neck and scoop neck options and come in Black, White, Air Blue, Rose Dust, and Peacoat. The current collection is affordably priced and available soon on YJack’s Website at www.yjackusa.com. l

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NOW MORE THAN EVER, CONSUMERS ESPECIALLY GEN ZERS AND MILLENNIALS - ARE ACTIVELY SEEKING FOR WAYS TO GIVE BACK TO THOSE IN NEED AND THE ENVIRONMENT.

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INTRODUCING

NEW FASHION BRAND OF SUSTAINABLE AFFORDABLE T-SHIRTS FOR MEN AND WOMEN

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INTRODUCING

NEW FASHION BRAND OF SUSTAINABLE AFFORDABLE T-SHIRTS FOR MEN AND WOMEN

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FEATURING

C

M·A·C SELENA kPHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF M·A·C

reated in close collaboration with her family, the M·A·C Selena La Reina collection, is M·A·C’s new and second Selena collection - inspired by Selena’s unique music style, distinctive global influence, and undeniable beauty. Rich shades in a variety of product categories flatter all skin types and tones, while speaking to

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the icon’s legendary makeup looks.

“The colours in the eye palette range from warm nudes that compliment every skin tone, to some rich toned earthy browns. For lips, we have included an assortment of nudes, rose-toned and red shades that give the perfect pout. The textures run from both matte to shimmery metallic shades to play up your look

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LA REINA

from day to night.” - Senior National Artist, Gisel Calvillo.

Suzette Quintanilla Arriaga, Selena’s sister, shared the inspiration behind the black and silver rhinestone packaging “This collection is so special to me because it celebrates Selena’s 25-year legacy and I wanted the packaging to be fun and memorable!

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LONG LIVE THE QUEEN. M·A·C COSMETICS INTRODUCES A BRAND-NEW COLOUR COLLECTION CELEBRATING THE QUEEN OF TEJANO MUSIC, SELENA QUINTANILLA.

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The true inspiration behind the packaging is Selena’s ICONIC rhinestone bra and really led to the holographic feel for the rest of the collection so it pulled everything together!”

LIPSTICK La Reina brown (amplified) Selena Vive light pinky nude (cremesheen) Inolvidable pinky peach with pearl (frost) Queen of Cumbia metallic true red (matte metallic) Suggested Retail Price: $20.00 USD LIPGLASS Bidi Bidi Bom Bom bubblegum pink with silver pearl Hey Dad Pizza! Golden brown with multicoloured pearl The Washing Machine white with pink pearl Suggested Retail Price: $19.00 USD

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LIP PENCIL Selenaville scarlet red Entre A Mi Mundo brownish nude Suggested Retail Price: $19.50 USD RETRO MATTE LIQUID LIPCOLOUR Siempre Selena vivid blue red Dame Un Beso raspberry pink Big Bertha dark brown Suggested Retail Price: $23.00 USD EXTRA DIMENSION SKINFINISH La Leyenda rich gold on pearl Suggested Retail Price: $37.00 USD ME SIENTO…MUY EXCITED X8 EYE SHADOW PALETTE Me Siento…Muy Excited bronze with pink pearl (dazzle) It’s a Texas Thing mauve with multicolour pearls (dazzle) Live in Concert deep blackened plum (matte)

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Te Amo deep peachy brown with slight shimmer (matte) Captive Heart bright warm pink with pearl (frost) 25 soft cool red (matte) Los Dinos yellow nude (matte) Como Te Extraño soft muted pink (matte) Suggested Retail Price: $35.00 USD SELENA MAKEUP BAG Suggested Retail Price: $35.00 USD Available North America Online at www.maccosmetics.com Online at the following retail locations: Ulta.com Nordstrom.com Macys.com Dillards.com Belk.com Saks.com Bloomingdales.com Century21.com Follow on social media at @MACcosmetics and #MACSelena. l

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FASHION EDITORIAL

You ARE AN

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Original! kCURATED AND DIRECTED BY

WILLIAM JACKSON, MBA, GQINSIDER, 2018 FOLIO: 100 HONOREE, CHIEF CREATIVE DIRECTOR OF INFLUENTIAL MAGAZINE, SPANISH INFLUENTIAL, AND TEEN INFLUENTIAL

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FASHION EDITORIAL

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You ARE AN

Original!

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HOW TO TALK TO YOUR CHILDREN ABOUT TOUGH

MONEY MATTERS

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HAS YOUR FAMILY DISCUSSED MONEY CONCERNS?

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linical psychologists note that when kids don’t have enough information about something, they may become anxious, make up their own explanations -- which can include blaming themselves for a perceived problem -- or seek information from other, potentially unreliable sources. They recommend talking to your children about financial concerns, keeping in mind that the level of detail shared should be based on your child’s age.

You could also engage your kids in family budget decisions, particularly should you feel a financial pinch.

If they want to go on a vacation or buy that new video game system, ask for their ideas on how to save up the money. If you can’t afford to eat out as often, let them pick a favorite restaurant for a special monthly or quarterly meal. You might also consider encouraging older children to get jobs so they can earn their own spending money.

Preschool and Elementary Age Experts suggest limiting financial discussion with very young children to the basics. If the economy is struggling, you might tell them that this can happen when businesses spend more money than they have and have to pay back what they borrowed, which means those businesses don’t have money to spend on other things, like employees. You might also explain that when money is tighter, they may need to wait a little longer to get certain items such as new toys. Psychologists emphasize the need to be honest, but reassuring, letting children know that tough financial times are only temporary and that you will always provide them with everything they need.

College Kids Experts say that at this age, families should be open and straightforward when discussing finances. In addition to helping college-age kids understand a change in the economy or other financial development, explain what it could mean for your family’s financial situation and whether it could impact them. Tell them how you’ve been spending and saving, describe struggles you’ve faced, and outline the steps you’ll take to shore up finances. You can also help them build their own budgets and saving plans. Being honest about financial mistakes you’ve made can help your children avoid them in the future.

“Tweens” and Teens Children in this age group are old enough for you to explain what financial terms mean and why the economy doesn’t always perform well. You might also provide an overview of how credit works, introducing terms such as interest, risk and liability.

For more tips on teaching kids about money, visit letsmakeaplan.org.

Explaining your family’s financial situation will not only help your children make sense of what’s happening, it will provide them with confidence and a foundation of financial knowledge that will carry them into adulthood. (StatePoint) l

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NOW’S THE TIME TO FOCUS ON FINANCIAL

HEALTH

IN THE WORKPLACE

EMPLOYERS HAVE BOTH AN OPPORTUNITY AND A RESPONSIBILITY TO CARE FOR THEIR EMPLOYEES’ FINANCIAL WELLBEING. EMPLOYERS THAT HELP THEIR TEAMS ACHIEVE BETTER FINANCIAL HEALTH TEND TO FOSTER HEALTHIER, MORE PRODUCTIVE AND MORE COMMITTED WORKFORCES.

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n particular, workplace financial health is essential for those in the service industry or that employ hourly or gig workers, who are often faced with unpredictable work schedules and paychecks.

“Research shows employees who are offered financial health benefits or options are less stressed and have higher workplace satisfaction,” said

Jennifer Tescher, CEO of Financial Health Network, the nation’s authority on consumer financial health. “Offering a comprehensive financial health program – which includes traditional benefits such as insurance and retirement planning, as well as access to emergency savings, affordable credit, financial content and more – can give employees the buffer they need in emergencies. Additionally, it can help

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teach them financial health habits that can have lasting benefits throughout their careers and lives.”

Business leaders and human resource managers interested in implementing effective employee financial health strategies can begin planning with this advice in honor of #FinHealthMatters Day from the experts at Financial Health Network in partnership with MetLife Foundation.

1. Understand the opportunity to improve employee financial health. To begin, companies should understand what financial health is – how individuals are able to manage their day-to-day financial lives while building for the future – and its significance in the workplace. l

l 2. Align your organization in sup-

port of employee financial health.

While human resource departments are critical components to successful programs and frequently spearhead these initiatives, it is important to garner support from stakeholders across the organization, including senior leadership. l 3. Talk to employees about their

financial needs. An effective program addresses specific employee needs. To that end, it is imperative for employers to talk to employees about their financial health through conversations, surveys or focus groups that respect and ensure privacy. l 4.

Identify and implement appropriate solutions. Armed with

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an accurate gauge of employees’ financial health challenges, employers can reach out to benefits brokers, retirement providers, fintech companies and other service providers to discuss appropriate solutions that help employees spend, save, borrow and plan.

5. Drive engagement. A successful strategy rollout, and consistent employee engagement over the long-term, requires significant internal support from marketing and communications to ensure employees understand which solutions are available and the benefits of participating.

l

6. Measure success. Tracking changes to employee financial health over time through surveys, participation, metrics and other data can help employers determine if the programs and interventions introduced are having the intended long-term impact and leading to improvements. l

7. Commit to improvement.

Measuring success not only reveals a program’s efficacy, it can also highlight opportunities for improvement. As with other benefits programs, an effective financial wellness initiative hinges on consistent evaluation and refinement to maximize value both for employees and employers.

Use Financial Wellness Benefits as a Competitive Edge In a survey of 1,000 employees of mid-sized and large U.S. firms, Financial Health Network uncovered insights regarding workers’ financial needs and preferences for financial wellness benefits. By developing solutions targeted around the needs of groups like millennials and women, employers can set themselves apart in a competitive marketplace.

Millennials are more likely than other generations to want assistance in short-term and long-term planning, with emergency savings being their top short-term need.

Across long-term needs, they want help with retirement, planning for the future and investing.

For millennials, an employer that supports them personally is a top priority and their finances are no exception. Not only are these workers comfortable receiving financial help from their employers, the majority of them expect it.

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Learn more about encouraging employees’ financial health in the workplace at finhealthnetwork.org.

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Women across all age cohorts are more likely than their male colleagues to say they’re financially stressed. Building an effective workplace financial health strategy for women requires a targeted approach. Women have less help in managing their finances but are also less comfortable receiving support at work and are less likely to have used the financial wellness benefits offered to them. (Family Features) l

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Food & Beverage

UNLEASH YOUR INNER

HOME CHEF

WITH MANY AMERICANS STAYING HOME, THE PRESSURE IS ON TO MAINTAIN FUN AND VARIETY IN THE KITCHEN, SO FAMILY MEALS DON’T GET BORING. HOWEVER, CRANKING OUT THREE MEALS A DAY CAN BE A BURDEN.

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n fact, the average American can only prepare five meals without a recipe, according to a OnePoll survey.

Consider these fun tips to add a little diversity to your family’s daily menu.

Build a taco bar. This is an easy way to use leftovers from the week.

Pull out tortillas or make rice, add any leftover proteins and sides then mix in taco seasonings.

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Make a family classic. Think back to your childhood and the one or two dishes that became family favorites.

Bust out those family cookbooks and recreate classics by having the kids help with age-appropriate tasks. l

microwave. One healthy option is Aqua Star’s MicroSteam Seafood Meals, which combine sustainable seafood, including salmon, shrimp, tilapia and cod, with on-trend ingredients like mafalda pasta, sriracha, red quinoa and yellow carrots. In the microwave, the film expands and locks in steam to cook food evenly in just 6 minutes without a “fishy” smell.

Pull out the slow cooker. Being at home all day makes it even easier to prepare a good meal.

Choose a recipe, throw it l

Try a microwave-friendly meal.

For those nights when no one can decide what to eat, or when you’re simply tired of cooking, turn to the

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in the slow cooker in the morning and enjoy the delicious aromas as you wait for a meal that’s ready just in time for dinner.

Try a meal kit. Meal kits are a fun way to switch up your regular repertoire. They’re tasty, easy to make with kids and many of them come frozen so you can stock up. Take, for example, Aqua Star’s Cutting Board meal kits, which come with all the ingredients required to prepare and clean up a high-quality and nutritious meal in 30 minutes or less. With flavors such as Cuban-style wild rockfish, crispy fish street tacos and sweet & spicy BBQ chicken flatbread, there’s plenty of options for family dinners. l

Order takeout or delivery. Many restaurants offer takeout options, and with all l

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the delivery services that exist, eating favorite restaurant meals from the comfort of home is easy to do.

Have breakfast for dinner. Seemingly always a kid-friendly favorite, scramble some eggs, cook some bacon and get creative with pancakes, French toast or waffles by adding fruit, spices or chocolate chips.

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If you learn new cooking methods, develop a larger menu and add some new dishes, eating at home can be fun and adventurous. Find more solutions at aquastar.com.

Sidebar: Busting Common Cooking Myths l Myth No. 1: Frozen is not as good as fresh. When it comes to nutritional value, frozen foods are packed and frozen at the food’s peak freshness, meaning they’re still full of nutrients.

Myth No. 2: Cooking seafood is hard. Seafood is a healthy source of protein that can be steamed, baked, grilled or fried. Start with one technique and master it. An easy way to start is to saute shrimp or fish fillets in a bit of oil. Use the

l

same technique as when you fry an egg and don’t overcook it.

Myth No. 3: Fish should never be microwaved. Microwaving seafood can actually help preserve nutrients that are typically broken down when heated using other cooking methods. The key is to use steam: Place the fish in a microwaveable bag or choose one of the many ready-to-microwave selections in your grocer’s freezer section.

Steaming fish in the microwave cooks fish evenly and preserves texture and taste. (Family Features) l l

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ALL-DAY

NUTRITION

F

rom cereal and milk to yogurt and fruit to broccoli and cheese, combining dairy with plant-based foods creates a superfood power couple that can help ensure you and your family are getting the nutrients you need any time of day.

With the rise in popularity of plant-based diets, dairy can help optimize nutrient absorption from plant foods and provide additional nutrients like high-quality protein, calcium, vitamin D and vitamin B12. You can create delicious meals with the nutrition you need while enjoying the best of plants and dairy.

DAIRY-INSPIRED, PLANT-BASED DISHES TO SERVE FROM MORNING TO NIGHT with Tangy Guacamole and a classic Moroccan staple, Creamy Couscous with Broccoli, Tomatoes and Cheese, on the side.

Find more recipes that combine the goodness of dairy and plant-based foods at milkmeansmore.org.

Combining dairy and plantbased foods can be easier with these dairy-powered recipes from Milk Means More. They are ideal for creating a nutritious and delicious plan for every meal throughout the day. Start with a Blueberry Apple Crisp Smoothie Bowl in the morning then build out your lunch or dinner plans around an appetizer like this traditional Middle Eastern Labneh Spread with grilled pita bread and assorted veggies. For the main course, try Lentil Tacos

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Creamy Couscous with Broccoli, Tomatoes and Cheese Recipe courtesy of culinary dietitian Marcia Stanley, MS, RDN Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 5 minutes Servings: 6

1/2 cup chopped onion 2 tablespoons butter 3 cups broccoli florets 1 teaspoon minced garlic 1/2 teaspoon pepper 3 cups fat-free, 2% or whole milk

1 1/2 cups plain couscous (wheat pasta) 1 cup finely shredded Parmesan cheese 1 cup (4 ounces) shredded cheddar cheese 1 1/2 cups seeded and chopped tomatoes 2 tablespoons slivered fresh basil leaves In large nonstick skillet over medium heat, cook onion in butter 2 minutes. Add broccoli, garlic and pepper. Cook and stir 2 minutes.

Stir milk into broccoli mixture.

Bring to boil. Stir in couscous.

Remove from heat. Cover and let stand 5 minutes.

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Gently stir Parmesan cheese into couscous mixture. Spread on serving platter. Sprinkle with cheddar cheese. Top with tomatoes and fresh basil leaves.

Lentil Tacos with Tangy Guacamole Recipe courtesy of culinary dietitian Marcia Stanley, MS, RDN Prep time: 40 minutes Servings: 6 Tangy Guacamole: 1 medium ripe avocado, pitted, peeled and chopped 1 tablespoon orange, lime or lemon juice 1/4 teaspoon hot pepper sauce 1 clove garlic, minced 1/2 cup plain, fat-free Greek yogurt Lentil Tacos: 2 1/3 cups water 1 cup dry brown lentils, rinsed and drained 1/2 cup finely chopped onion 2 teaspoons chili powder 2 cloves garlic, minced 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 1/2 cups seeded and chopped tomatoes, divided 1 1/4 cups (5 ounces) shredded cheddar cheese, divided 12 yellow corn taco shells To make Tangy Guacamole: In small bowl, mash avocado, juice, hot pepper sauce and garlic.

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Stir in yogurt. Cover and refrigerate until serving time. To make Lentil Tacos: Heat oven to 400 F. In medium saucepan over medium-high heat, combine water, lentils, onion, chili powder, garlic and salt. Bring to boil. Reduce heat. Cover and gently boil 12-15 minutes, or until lentils are just tender. Uncover and boil 5-15 minutes, or until most liquid evaporates. Remove lentils from heat.

Stir in 1 cup tomatoes and 3/4 cup cheese. Spoon into taco shells. Stand filled tacos in 13-by-9-by-2-inch baking dish. Sprinkle tacos with remai-

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ning tomatoes and cheese. Loosely cover dish with foil. Bake 3-5 minutes, or until cheese melts. Stir guacamole.

Serve with warm tacos.

Labneh Spread Recipe courtesy of Jenn Fillenworth, MS, RDN of Jenny with the Good Eats Prep time: 5 minutes Servings: 6

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12 ounces whole milk Greek yogurt

1/8 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon fresh lemon juice 2 tablespoons olive oil 1pinch sea salt, for garnish fresh herbs, for garnish pita bread, grilled assorted seasonal vegetables In bowl, mix Greek yogurt, salt and lemon juice. Transfer mixture to fine mesh strainer lined with cheesecloth.

Wrap mixture in cheesecloth and strain over bowl in refrigerator 24-48 hours. Strain longer to make thicker.

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Once thickened as desired, remove from cheesecloth and top spread with olive oil, sea salt and fresh herbs.

Serve with grilled pita bread and assorted seasonal vegetables.

Blueberry Apple Crisp Smoothie Bowl Recipe courtesy of Rachel Gurk of Rachel Cooks Prep time: 5 minutes Servings: 1 1 cup frozen blueberries

2 cups apples, roughly chopped, reserving 2 tablespoons for topping 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1/2 cup plain, non-fat Greek yogurt 1 cup spinach pure maple syrup, to taste ice cubes (optional) Toppings: 2 tablespoons oats 1 teaspoon pure maple syrup 1 tablespoon pecans, chopped 2 tablespoons reserved

chopped apple fresh blueberries In blender, blend blueberries, apples, cinnamon, yogurt and spinach until smooth. Taste and add maple syrup, to taste. If thicker mixture is desired, add ice cubes.

Pour into bowl. Mix oats with maple syrup. Top smoothie mixture with oats, pecans, apples and blueberries. (Family Features) l

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f spending additional time in the comfort of your home has you rethinking the family menu and looking for new ways to enjoy nutritional meals, rest assured you can make better-foryou food choices without losing mouthwatering taste.

BETTER-FOR-YOU FAMILY FOODS WITH SATISFYING FLAVOR

Easy, efficient at-home recipes like Thai Coconut Lime Freezer Chicken, Burrito Beef and Cauli Mac and Cheese can all be made in less than an hour while reducing the intake of carbs and unnecessary sugars. All are part of a balanced Atkins lowcarb lifestyle, a long-term, healthy eating approach focused on high-fiber carbohydrates, optimal protein and healthy fats.

The eating approach, which is a more flexible version of the popular ketogenic diet, offers a balanced mix of foods containing fiber-rich and nutrient-dense carbohydrates while focusing on reduced levels of refined carbohydrates, added sugars and the “hidden sugar effect” – when carbohydrates convert to sugar when digested. You don’t see the sugar, but your body does.

Introducing your family to smarter food choices can also support your immunity. According to research published in “The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition,” simply substituting whole grains for refined grains has a modest effect on gut microbiota and immunity. Refined grains have had most of the fiber milled out of them, leaving a refined carbo-

hydrate that impacts your body the way sugar would. Opt for whole grains to get the fiber you need, along with protein and healthy fats.

To learn more and find additional ways to focus family meals on nutritious recipes, visit Atkins.com.

Thai Coconut Lime Freezer Chicken Prep time: 8 minutes Cook time: 22 minutes Servings: 4 1 3/4 cups coconut milk 2 tablespoons basil 1 tablespoon xylitol (sugar substitute) 1 ounce cilantro 1 ounce fresh lime juice 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon garlic 1teaspoon lime zest (optional) 20 ounces boneless, cooked chicken breast 20 ounces broccoli flower clusters In bowl, mix coconut milk, basil, xylitol, cilantro, lime juice, salt and garlic. For more citrus flavor, add lime zest, if desired. Add chicken, broccoli and sauce to 1-gallon ziptop freezer bag. Squeeze out any air and seal bag. Freeze bag flat up to 1 month.

To cook: Thaw in refrigerator overnight. Heat oven to 350 F. Place in glass 8-by-8-inch pan and bake 20-25 minutes.

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Burrito Beef Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 8 hours Servings: 6

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2 pounds beef arm chuck roast 4 tablespoons green taco sauce 1 teaspoon minced garlic 2 large scallions or spring onions, chopped 1 jalapeno pepper, diced 2 teaspoons chili powder 1/2 teaspoon cumin 1/2 teaspoon salt

Trim fat from beef. In slow cooker on low heat, cook beef, taco sauce, garlic, onions, jalapeno, chili powder, cumin and salt 8 hours, or until beef is tender.

Using two forks, remove beef and shred. Mix beef with 1/2 cup cooking juices before serving.

A Low-Sugar Swap to Satisfy Cravings While spending more time at home than normal, those snack cravings can be hard to shake.

Rather than relying on easy-to-

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grab eats from the pantry or freezer, focus on more nutritious choices that don’t sacrifice flavor.

Turn to a creamy solution to satisfy your hunger such as the Atkins Milk Chocolate Delight Shake, a filling option for chocolate lovers.

The drinks are packed with 15 grams of protein, 5 grams of fiber, 20% of the daily recommended amount of vitamin D and 1 gram of sugar to keep you going throughout the day.

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Cauli Mac and Cheese Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 40 minutes Servings: 6 Nonstick cooking spray 1 teaspoon salt, divided 1 head large (6-7-inch diameter) cauliflower 1 cup heavy cream 2 ounces cream cheese 1 1/2 teaspoons ground mustard 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided 1 clove garlic, minced 1/4 teaspoon white pepper 1/4 teaspoon pepper sauce Heat oven to 375 F and prepare 9-by-9-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Heat large pot of water to boiling and add 1/2 teaspoon salt. Remove stem and leaves from cauliflower. Cut into small pieces and place in boiling water; cook until crisp-tender; about 5 minutes.

Drain well then pat between paper towels to remove moisture.

In medium saucepan over medium heat, bring cream to simmer.

Whisk cream cheese and powdered mustard into simmering cream until smooth. Add 1 cup cheddar cheese, garlic, remaining salt, white pepper and pepper sauce, whisking until cheese melts; about 1-2 minutes.

Remove from heat and stir in cauliflower. Pour into baking dish and top with remaining cheese. Bake 15 minutes until browned and bubbly.

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5

FUN FACTS ABOUT

THE ORIGINAL

MARGARITA

Recipe: Classic Margarita Nothing says “summer” quite like The Original Margarita. And for the aspiring mixologist to the cocktail newbie, extra time at home is perfect for mastering The Margarita. There is nothing easier than shaking up this refreshing cocktail, in its original form or in one of its many delightful variations. Here are some fun facts about The Margarita to help inspire your next happy hour with friends - virtual or otherwise:

1

l It’s the most popular

cocktail in America Did you know that The Margarita is America’s favorite cocktail? Since Nielsen first started conducting surveys to discover bargoers’ favorite drinks in 2016, The Margarita has been the number one pick. In 2019 The Margarita edged out The Martini, The OldFashioned, The Mimosa and The Moscow Mule for the coveted first-place spot. It’s no surprise now that margaritas are a popular happy hour cocktail, so make sure to share your favorite Margarita recipe with your virtual happy hour pals for toasting together.

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2

4

l The origin

l It’s a highly

of The Original Margarita The Original Margarita was created when Dallas socialite Margarita Sames mixed her two favorite spirits, Cointreau and tequila, together with lime juice while she was vacationing in Acapulco back in 1948.

customizable cocktail The Original Margarita is a classic on its own - the recipe has stood the test of over 70 years’ time.

However, it’s very easy to customize to your tastes or ingredients.

Whether you’re feeling adventurous or craving a classic there is a Margarita for everyone.

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l All you need

are three ingredients The original recipe is elegant and simple. It’s easy to make, even for beginners - no fancy ingredients required.

Ingredients: 1 ounce Cointreau 2 ounces blanco tequila 1 ounce fresh lime juice Instructions: Combine all ingredients in a shaker and add ice.

Shake and strain into a salt-rimmed rocks glass.

Garnish with a lime wheel.

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Herbal - Add fresh lemon and basil for The Lemon Basil Margarita that tastes straight out of the garden. The balance of citrus and herbs gives this drink a light yet juicy flavor. l

Spicy -The Cucumber Jalapeno Margarita combines the coolness of cucumber with a spicy burst of jalapeno for just the right amount of kick. Experiment with the amount of jalapeno to suit your own taste. l

Tangy - Use slices of fresh ginger and fresh mint leaves for a unique flavor combination. The spice of ginger gives The Ginger Mint l

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Margarita a tantalizing bite that is aromatically balanced by the refreshing mint.

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the rim is needed to enhance the flavors in this classic, refreshing cocktail.

l It’s the salt that

Fruity - Use seasonal, colorful fruit to shake up a Margarita that is beautiful, bright and juicy. A few berries work great.

makes it sweet Why the salt-rimmed glass? Salt is actually present on The Margarita glass to bring out the sweet and sour flavors of the drink. Just a pinch of salt around

To find dozens of recipes for creative Margaritas and other iconic cocktails, visit Cointreau. com/Cocktails or follow us on Instagram @Cointreau_US. (BPT) l

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Health & Wellness

THIS BOTTLE TURNS WATER INTO ALKALINE

ANTIOXIDANT WATER ON-THE-GO

DYLN Inspired™ is Genuinely Inspired Founder Dorian Ayres noticed a missing link in the premium water market. Many health-conscious people were buying alkaline water in plastic bottles, improving their own health but contributing to our ever-growing plastic waste problem. Other alternatives for alkaline water included an expensive in-home machine only few could afford. Dorian was inspired to design a solution. With the help of science and premium components, the Original DYLN Bottle was created making alkaline water on the go simple, affordable, and in a reusable stainless-steel bottle.

The DYLN Inspired™ Mission DYLN is bridging the gap between wellness and convenience with our eco-friendly alkaline water bottles.

We believe that living water is the foundation for healthy bodies, conscious minds, and inspired lives—and that you should be able

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to make it everywhere you go. For yoga enthusiasts, athletes, and healthseekers alike, DYLN Inspired strives to energize your lives all while reducing plastic waste. Our goal is to preserve the environment while expanding awareness, one bottle at a time.

A few details: l CREATES ALKALINE WATER (32 oz/950 mL): Transform your water into high pH Alkaline Water within minutes. The replaceable Diffuser (lasts up to 315 refills/300 L) increases the pH up to 9.5 and reduces the ORP down to -150 to make your water alkaline and antioxidant. It also makes your water hydrogen-rich. l VACUUM INSULATED:

DYLN’s stainless steel doublewalled insulation keeps your alkaline water cold for up to 24 hours. The exterior of the inner wall is coated with copper for superior insulation. Does not sweat

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l EASY-TO-HOLD

ERGONOMIC SHAPE: DYLN holds 32 oz of alkaline water and its patented ergonomic shape makes it extremely comfortable and easy to hold and drink from. l HIGHEST QUALITY BOTTLE

ON THE MARKET: The interior of the bottle is made of 316 Surgical-Grade Stainless Steel and the outside is made of more durable 304 Food-Grade Stainless Steel. BPA-Free, no inner liner, and your water never touches any plastic. l FLEXIBLE HANDLE CAP:

The stylish cap comes with a flexible handle to make it easy to carry with you throughout your day.

For more details, visit www. dyln.co/pages/dyln-insulatedalkaline-water-bottle. l

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EXPRESSING SYMPATHY

DURING THIS NEW NORMAL EXPERIENCING THE LOSS OF A LOVED ONE IS ALWAYS DIFFICULT. IN TODAY’S ENVIRONMENT OF “SOCIAL DISTANCING”, WE ARE EVEN MORE CHALLENGED IN FINDING WAYS TO REACH OUT AND CONNECT TO THOSE WHO NEED COMFORT AT A TIME OF LOSS.

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hile many of us may be adapting to new everyday routines, the etiquette of expressing sympathy by and large has not changed. Here are a few helpful tips from 1-800-Flowers.com: 1. Even if you don’t know the person well, saying, “I’m sorry for your loss” is always appropriate and meaningful. It’s acknowledging what has happened in an honest and direct way. And lets the person know they have permission to experience any uncomfortable emotions. Read more tips on how to comfort someone who is grieving here.

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2. If they haven’t said anything on Facebook, neither should you.

But if they have posted about it, it is appropriate to comment. Read more about the do’s and don’ts on expressing condolences on social media here.

3. Due to recent regulations on large gatherings in many states due to COVID-19, many funeral services are being postponed or livestreamed over the internet making it an extraordinarily stressful time for the immediate family. If you aren’t able to express your condolences in person at this time, deliveries of

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a gourmet food basket, houseplant or sympathy flowers to their home are appropriate ways to let them know you are thinking of them. Find these sympathy gifts and more for home delivery here.

4. And remember to support those who have experienced the loss of a loved one in recent months, and may be feeling a bit more aware right now; be it due to social distancing or an upcoming important date or anniversary. Rebecca Soffer, co-founder of Modern Loss provides some additional thoughts here. You can also explore complimentary sentiment ecards for Thinking of you and Sympathy to let them know you are thinking about them.

For additional resources on sympathy and remembrance, click here.

If you are in need of expressing your condolences and not sure what to send, 1-800-Flowers.com sympathy specialists can help by calling 1-866-538-2259. (BPT) l

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SAFE WAYS TO CONNECT WITH

FAMILY AND FRIENDS WHILE PRACTICING SOCIAL DISTANCING

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BOB DYLAN ONCE SANG, “FOR THE TIMES THEY ARE A-CHANGIN’,” AND THAT HAS PERHAPS NEVER BEEN TRUER THAN IT IS TODAY. THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC HAS INTRODUCED NEW PHRASES LIKE SOCIAL DISTANCING TO THE GENERAL POPULATION, AND HAS ALSO REDEFINED BOTH WORKAND FAMILY LIFE, CREATING A NEW NORMAL.

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his adjustment is not an easy one, keeping most folks from daily interaction with family and friends. The good news is there are ways you can still spend time with those you care about, all while practicing the nuanced art of social distancing.

Start New Traditions While Supporting Those in Need

While traditional dining out is not currently possible, it’s the perfect time to start a new tradition around mealtime.

Noodles & Company now offers family meals that you can conveniently order online and pick up either via quick pick-up or the new curbside pick-up, which is available at nearly 350 locations nationwide. Additionally, you can also enjoy free delivery through April 30 when ordering directly from Noodles.com or by using the Noodles app, which makes staying at home even easier.

Plus, for every family meal ordered, Noodles & Company will donate one regular entrée to a healthcare worker to give back to those who deserve it most right now. So, it’s time to get menu-browsing and pick which tasty option your family can enjoy for lunch or dinner today. Cultivating connection is now more important than ever, and the new family meals make it easy to connect with loved ones over a warm and delicious bowl of noodles, whether they’re miles away over a computer screen or across the table. No matter the distance, Noodles can help your family focus on what matters most: company.

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Schedule Virtual Activities While it may seem easy to connect with family and friends while homebound, many have found it to be quite difficult. Instead of trying to find additional time in the day to connect with those you love, a great alternative is to leverage the existing time you once allocated to other activities before social distancing took effect. This time can then be spent with loved ones by enjoying activities via video chat.

For example, if you used to take lunchtime walks with coworkers you can now spend that time enjoying a virtual workout class together. If you used to attend happy hours or other group activities with friends or family, you can now take part in online games, courses or virtual book club meetings instead. Commit with your friends and family to stick with your favorite activities and routines and you’ll be reunited together in person before you know it.

Switch Up Story Time If you have little ones at home, they are likely missing the loved ones they are used to frequently seeing in person. One of the easiest ways to incorporate these people into your children’s lives in a meaningful way is to reinvent the story time portion of their bedtime routine.

Instead of tackling the story yourself, have a loved one read to them instead via video conference. Whether you flip the pages for your guest reader or they read a book from home across the screen, it’s a simple activity that’s sure to bring everyone closer together.

Embrace Traditional Communication In times like these, the communication you send with a personalized touch will resonate with loved ones the most.

Writing a letter or sending a care package creates a one-ofa-kind nostalgic feeling the recipient is sure to appreciate.

Plus, you don’t have to live entirely in the present. Using letters to plan for future events and vacations can be a great way to reduce stress during uncertain times and can be a promising light at the end of the tunnel.

Social distancing shouldn’t mean isolation. Employ the tips above and be proactive in your efforts to connect with loved ones to strengthen the relationships that matter most. (BPT) l MAY / JUNE 2020

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WANT AN APPOINTMENT FOR YOUR VAGINAL HEALTH ISSUES? MANY DOCTORS’ OFFICES ARE SHUTTING DOWN FOR ANYTHING OTHER THAN EMERGENCY CARE OR DIAGNOSING AND TREATING PEOPLE FOR COVID-19.

THIS LEAVES MANY WOMEN WITH LACK OF ACCESS TO THEIR DOCTORS WHEN EXPERIENCING NON-URGENT, BUT HIGHLY UNCOMFORTABLE ISSUES.

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HO A WOME TOOLKIT

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OW TO BUILD EN’S HEALTH DURING THE

COVID-19 CRISIS

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auren Streicher, MD, OB/GYN at Northwestern University, encourages patients experiencing gynecologic issues during COVID restrictions to contact their health care provider if they have a gynecologic concern.

Many clinicians can connect by phone or video and give recommendations and call in prescriptions. However, if medical care for non-urgent issues is not readily available, she suggests women prepare to care for their common health issues at home.

“Even with mandates to ‘shelter in place,’ women can safely and effectively take care of many common health issues right at home,” says Streicher. “But still, it is important to know when something does require immediate medical attention.”

Streicher offers the following tips to help women prepare their own at-home feminine health toolkit to address common issues and help stay healthy: Prescriptions: If possible, get a 3-month supply of prescriptions such as birth control pills.

Safe sex: Stock up on condoms and keep emergency contraception on hand. In the U.S., there are two FDAapproved over-the-counter forms of emergency contraception, and the sooner you take emergency contraception, the more effectively it works.

UTI: If possible, have antibiotics on hand if you get a UTI. Additionally, studies show that if you increase your daily fluid intake of water to 2-3 liters on a regular basis, you can flush out bad bacteria. An oral vaginal probiotic like Pro-B may keep yeast and bacteria balanced every day by increasing vaginal lactobacilli and preventing the colonization of vaginal E.coli finding its way into the urinary tract.

Vaginal discharge and odor: Know how to determine if it is yeast or bacterial vaginosis so you know which product to use. For example, keep pH-

balancing RepHresh Gel on hand for after sex and menstruation.

Pelvic floor PT: If you are going to stick to kegel exercises, make sure you are doing them correctly. Also, there are over-the-counter, at-home devices like Attain developed in conjunction with pelvic floor physical therapists that are FDA cleared for the treatment of both urinary and fecal incontinence.

Painful sex: Stock up on Replens Moisturizer to help eliminate vaginal dryness and painful sex, especially for women who are breastfeeding, in cancer treatment or in menopause. Additionally, remember to have a good silicone lube on hand to use for intercourse.

Vitamins: Stock up on vitamin D because it facilitates the absorption of calcium that can decrease bone loss and reduce your risk of breaking a bone. They are easy to take, especially a gummy vitamin like vitafusion.

Pregnancy pain: This could be due to an ectopic pregnancy, which is potentially life-threatening and demands attention. Call your health care provider immediately.

“Check out my website at DrStreicher.com. It is the go-to women’s health site for reliable, upto-date information about what to do in almost every circumstance when you are stuck at home and can’t reach your own doctor,” adds Dr. Streicher. (BPT) l

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CAREGIVING AND COVID-19: TIPS FOR

PEOPLE WITH VULNERABLE FAMILY MEMBERS

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COVID-19 HAS DRAMATICALLY SHIFTED DAILY LIFE FOR MANY PEOPLE AROUND THE WORLD.

obody is immune, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and older adults and individuals with chronic health conditions are at higher risk of getting very sick from the Coronavirus.

To protect vulnerable individuals, many nursing homes or assisted living facilities are banning outside visitors temporarily in hopes of limiting residents’ exposure to someone who may be infected with the virus. Additionally, many individuals who need care and are currently living in their own homes are feeling isolated and anxious about how to stay healthy and safe.

Caregiving is now taking center stage. With already more than 40 million unpaid family caregivers

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helping loved ones in the U.S., experts expect the virus to increase the number of people providing short-term or long-term care to an older or aging loved one.

AARP offers guidance to family caregivers with vulnerable family members, especially those who might be new to caregiving because of Coronavirus and its impacts on older populations.

Make it a Team Effort While there may be one primary family caregiver, identify other family members, friends and neighbors who can check in or help with shopping and important errands. It’s important that the person you’re caring for doesn’t leave their home and stays out of public places.

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Create a list with contact information of friends, family and services in your community that can help you perform key caregiving tasks. For example, find out if services such as Meals on Wheels can help deliver meals, or if there are other local services to help with food or medication delivery.

Inventory Essential Items It’s important to figure out what you have so you can determine what you need. Inventory how

much food, medication and basic supplies the person you’re caring for has currently. Then make a list of what you need and how often you need to replenish it.

Many older individuals often keep minimal extras on hand because they are on a strict budget and are used to regular grocery or medication refills. If possible, help them have a two-week supply of food, water, house cleaning supplies, and medical equipment.

Get Medications in Order If you don’t already have one, create a list of medications, medical contacts, and important information like allergies for easy access. If there are upcoming non-emergency, routine medical appointments, reschedule those or, if possible, switch to a virtual visit to receive telemedicine.

Ask your pharmacist or health care provider if you’re able to have an extra 30-day supply of essential medications on hand. Don’t forget to stock up on over-thecounter medications like cough suppressants and fever-reducing drugs like acetaminophen.

Stay Connected With current social distancing recommendations, strict isolation will impact many older individuals.

To keep connections strong, set up communication using a variety of technology such as FaceTime or Skype, smart speakers, or simply phone and text. Use these to stay

connected with your caregiving team as well as your older or aging family members.

If your loved one lives in a longterm care facility, see if they have accommodations for online visits and how they plan to communicate with families. If they can’t support visits via technology, send in cards, letters, magazines, puzzles or other items you know your loved one would be grateful to receive. Talk with your facility management about the safest way to deliver items.

Maintain Personal Safety and Self-care In order to help slow the spread of Coronavirus, limit physical contact with others, stay in as much as you can and continue to follow guidelines from the CDC. While you are likely very focused on the person you’re caring for, it is essential to also care for yourself.

For high-risk individuals, such as those with dementia and underlying health conditions, consider having the primary caregiver self-isolate with the care recipient. Then, have a back-up plan if the primary caregiver becomes ill. It’s best to be proactive and not have to use plan B, rather than being caught off guard without options.

For more information about caregiving and important considerations in light of COVID-19, visit aarp.org/caregiving and aarp. org/coronavirus. (BPT) l

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DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC, MANY AMERICANS ARE VIEWING A CONSTANT BARRAGE OF DISTURBING NEWS AND EXPERIENCING EMOTIONAL, PHYSICAL AND MENTAL FATIGUE WHILE SHELTERING IN PLACE AND PRACTICING SOCIAL DISTANCING.

STATE OF MIND: TIPS TO MANAGE STRESS DURING

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ME MANDATE

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kWRITTEN BY GARY SMALL, M.D.,

HERBALIFE NUTRITION ADVISORY BOARD

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ccording to a recent survey, 88% of organizations have encouraged or required staff to work from home, and the resulting social isolation can elevate stress levels.

Now more than ever, our mental health should be a top priority. Recognizing stress in ourselves and knowing how to manage it is particularly important today because chronic stress threatens our wellbeing and weakens the immune system’s ability to fight off infections. Stress also can have a negative impact on physical and mental health.

You Can Influence Your State of Mind Over time, humans have evolved into social beings surrounding ourselves with family, friends and groups with similar interests to help cope with life’s stressors and manage their mental health. Although we’re now in the digital age where technology allows us to stay connected, we still desire human interaction, involving touch and in-person gatherings, to keep us mentally healthy.

These are uncertain times, and many Americans are feeling more stress and worry as unemployment rates skyrocket and health concerns are high. A 2018 Gallup poll revealed that 55% of Americans said they experienced stress, nearly 45% reported they worried a lot, and 22% said they experienced anger.

Today, we’re cooped up at home trying to understand and respond to an onslaught of information coming from various medical authorities and organizations.

It’s not surprising many of us are experiencing anxiety, depression, and other mind health problems.

Although it’s important to stay connected and up-todate on current events, staying tuned to new reports throughout the day can create a greater sense of fear MAY / JUNE 2020

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and anxiety. However, there are ways to cope with stress that will help you and those around you better manage such feelings and reduce worries.

Everyone reacts to stress differently so it’s important to remember what works for one person may not work for another. Here are some coping tips that can help you manage your stress levels during the #StayAtHome mandate: l

Identify stress cues. Teeth grinding; weight

gain; headaches; mood swings; back and neck pain; and sleepless nights are signals you’re experiencing stress. Identifying these cues will help you know when it’s time to practice some strategies to lower your stress.

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l Know your triggers. If you’re working from home

or watching the news and you find yourself feeling anxious, irritated or experiencing a headache or neck pain, that’s the time to get up and disconnect. Taking a walk, listening to music or finding a quiet place to relax can help you reset your mental state and go back to tackling the day’s tasks. l Disconnect daily. Schedule regular times throughout

the day when you take breaks from working or watching, reading, or listening to news stories, including social media. Being connected 24-hours a day can lead to mental strain and anxiety. Take time to unwind by participating in activities that break up the monotony of your day. Connecting with people you trust to talk about your feelings can also help improve your mood.

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Move your body. Keep active. Find a recreational activity you enjoy. Exercise increases overall health and sense of well-being and is a great way to combat stress.

When you exercise, you produce endorphins, chemicals in the brain that help to reduce the perception of pain and improve mood. Regular exercise also helps to improve quality of sleep, which in turn reduces stress and fatigue. If you own a fitness tracker, aim for 10,000 steps each day. Setting a goal will help keep you motivated and give you a sense of accomplishment. l

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Breathe for relaxation. Natural breathing involves the diaphragm. When we breathe using the diaphragm, our stomach extends as we inhale and flattens when we exhale. After a time, we forget to breathe correctly and tend to use our chest and shoulders, which can lead to short and shallow breaths and increase stress and anxiety. There’s no time like the present to start working on your breathing. To begin, find a quiet place to lie down. Place one hand on your chest and the other on your stomach.

When you’re ready, slowly inhale. You should feel your stomach expanding, and when you exhale, your chest should descend. Practicing relaxation breathing for 20 to 30 minutes daily to reduce your anxiety levels and promote a state of calmness. l

your family and friends is critical. You may be physically isolated but that does not mean you need to lose your connection to others.

Try to reach out daily to people who are important to you using social media, videoconferencing or phone calls.

Find your creative outlet. Spend time

reconnecting with pastimes you enjoy or find a new activity or hobby. Shifting your focus on something novel can help you relax and feel energized. Consider trying a new recipe, walking, spring cleaning or participating in an online workout to reduce your stress and help you feel more refreshed.

Stay connected. Keeping in touch with

About Gary Small, M.D.

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Keep your routine. During changes

out of your control, stay consistent with activities you take charge of. If you, like Gary Small, M.D. has been many Americans, are working from home, a member of the Nutrition Advisory Board since 2011. He has authored set up a daily routine. Act as If you’re going over 500 scientific works to work. Get up at the time you normally and received numerous awards would and get dressed. You don’t need to and honors, including the wear a business suit but aim for business “Senior Investigator Award” from the casual attire. Also, set up an office where American Association for Geriatric Psychiatry, and the “Weinberg there are limited interruptions to help Award” for Excellence in Geriatric keep you focused. Also, remember to take Psychiatry from the American regular breaks to unwind throughout the Psychiatric Association. day. Many people who work from home Small is professor of psychiatry tend to stay glued to their desks and are less and biobehavioral sciences, the active. Taking breaks throughout the day as Parlow-Solomon professor on you normally would at work will give you a aging at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA*, director of sense of control and normalcy in your life. the UCLA* Longevity Center and director of the Geriatric Psychiatry Division at the Semel Institute for Neuroscience & Human Behavior. * The University of California as a matter of policy does not endorse specific products or services. Small’s credentials are for identification purposes only.

It’s important to remember stress is common, reduces productivity, and threatens physical and mental well-being. Being informed and developing stress coping techniques will help you manage and come out stronger in the end. l MAY / JUNE 2020

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Health & Wellness

More than 25 million Americans (about 1 in 13 people) suffer from asthma, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s National Health Interview Survey.

Asthma is a serious lung disease that affects the airways and makes it difficult to breathe. However, symptoms can be controlled with proper treatment and an action plan similar to this recommendation from the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. Find more information at nhlbi.nih.gov/ LMBBasthma.

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3

THINGS TO

KNOW ABOUT

ASTHMA

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MORE THAN 25 MILLION AMERICANS SUFFER FROM ASTHMA, ACCORDING TO THE CENTERS FOR DISEASE CONTROL AND PREVENTION’S NATIONAL HEALTH INTERVIEW SURVEY. THIS CHRONIC CONDITION IS SO COMMON THAT EVEN IF YOU DON’T HAVE IT YOURSELF, YOU PROBABLY KNOW SOMEONE – A FRIEND, COLLEAGUE OR CHILD – WHO DOES. HEALTH CARE PROVIDERS AND PATIENTS HAVE MANY TOOLS FOR MANAGING ASTHMA BUT KEEPING THE DISEASE UNDER CONTROL CAN STILL BE CHALLENGING.

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sthma symptoms result from inflammation, or swelling, that narrows the airways and makes them more sensitive than usual. The most common symptoms are coughing, wheezing, chest tightness and shortness of breath. These symptoms can be brought on by triggers such as tobacco smoke, dust, chemicals and pollen, which may worsen the inflammation of the airways.

Consider these three things to know about the condition from the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute’s Learn More Breathe Better program, which provides information and resources on asthma, COPD and other lung diseases and conditions to people living with the diseases, their caregivers and the health care providers who help treat them.

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Asthma is a serious lung disease.

While symptoms can range from mild to severe, a person can die during an asthma attack. It’s important for someone with the condition, as well as his or her family members, to know how to manage particular symptoms and when to get emergency medical help.

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Asthma doesn’t go away, and it can’t be cured. Once a person develops asthma, he or she is likely to have it for a lifetime. In other words, children rarely outgrow asthma.

Even when symptoms aren’t present, the condition is still there and can flare up at any time.

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Asthma can be managed. Like diabetes and high blood pressure, asthma takes ongoing monitoring and management to keep it under control. Managing the disease effectively means working closely with a health care provider, taking medications as prescribed, avoiding asthma triggers – like exposure to allergens, poor air quality or tobacco smoke – and watching for any changes in symptoms. These steps can help anyone with asthma gain – and keep – control of his or her health.

Currently, it is unknown if people with asthma are at higher risk of getting infected with COVID-19, but if you do get infected you may be at higher risk of getting very sick. COVID-19 can affect your respiratory tract (nose, throat, lungs), cause an asthma attack and possibly lead to pneumonia and acute respiratory disease.

For more information and resources on asthma, visit nhlbi.nih.gov/ BreatheBetter. (Family Features) l

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FACT VS. FICTION:

WHEN IT COMES TO DRUGS AND ALCOHOL, DO THE TEENS IN YOUR LIFE KNOW HOW TO SEPARATE FACT FROM FICTION?

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s with many of the myths portrayed in pop culture including on TV, in movies and on social media - what you see doesn’t always reflect reality. With more time being spent gathered at home around a variety of entertainment options, it’s a good opportunity to offer some ways to help teens make good decisions.

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Myth vs. Fact Take vaping (using e-cigarettes), for example. According to the 2019 Monitoring the Future survey from the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), one in four high school seniors report they’ve vaped nicotine in the past month, and marijuana vaping among 12th graders nearly doubled in a single year. Fact is, while

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some teens think vaping is safer than smoking tobacco cigarettes, continued e-cigarette use can lead to nicotine addiction.

Another important fact: Although taking drugs at any age can lead to addiction, research shows that the earlier people begin to use drugs, the more likely they are to

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DRUGS AND ALCOHOL IN TV, MOVIES, AND SOCIAL MEDIA

progress to more serious use. So why are teens more susceptible to addiction? The answer has to do with how the teen brain works.

The Developing Teen Brain During the teen years, the brain is growing and changing rapidly.

The adolescent brain learns quickly, which means that it opens doors to many positive and rewarding possibilities; it also means that teens may be more vulnerable to another form of learning - addiction.

Essential parts of the brain are still forming - like the prefrontal cortex, which helps people weigh the pros and cons of a situation instead of acting on impulse. Moreover, brain development continues into the 20s - a time that encompasses many important changes in a young adult’s life. Research shows that alcohol and other drugs change the brain’s structure and how it works.

In the short term, drugs affect the brain’s judgment and decisionmaking abilities, while long-term use causes brain changes that can set people up for addiction and other problems.

Making Healthy Decisions Because teen brains are still developing, it’s the perfect time to provide factual information about the impact of drugs and alcohol to help set teens up for a lifetime of healthy decisions. NIDA’s 10th annual National Drug & Alcohol Facts Week includes tips to help teens dispel the myths about drugs and alcohol.

NIDA’s Free, Science-based Resources for Parents and Teachers NIDA has developed tools and resources that can be used in classrooms, at community events, and at home, year-round.

l The

National Drug & Alcohol IQ Challenge challenges teens to test their knowledge. l Free science- and standards-based

classroom lessons and multimedia activities on teens and drugs.

Toolkits with activities to engage teens on various topics, including alcohol, marijuana, drugged driving, and vaping. l

The Drug Facts Challenge!, an interactive game using scientific facts about the brain and addiction, marijuana, vaping, and more. l

Mind Matters, an updated series for teachers to provide science-based information to middle school students about the consequences of drug use. l

With the help of NIDA’s science-based research and activities, anyone can help dispel the myths and share the facts about how drugs and alcohol affect teens’brains, bodies and behaviors.

For more information, visit teens. drugabuse.gov/ndafw. (BPT) l MAY / JUNE 2020

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UNDERSTANDING WHEN A HEADACHE ISN’T

JUST A HEADACHE

IT CAN BE EASY TO DISMISS HEAD PAIN AS A REGULAR HEADACHE, BUT IN FACT THERE IS NO SUCH THING. MORE THAN 300 TYPES OF HEADACHE EXIST AND THE LIKELIHOOD YOU’LL EXPERIENCE ONE IN YOUR LIFETIME IS HIGH. WORLDWIDE NEARLY 40 MILLION PEOPLE HAVE SOME FORM OF HEADACHE DISEASE.

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“E

ach headache comes with its own set of symptoms and a different approach to treatment,” says Vincent Martin, MD, president of the National Headache Foundation and professor of Clinical Medicine, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine. “A physician trained in headache medicine is the best person to diagnose the type of headache you’re experiencing but since symptoms usually come on gradually, you should record your symptoms and triggers over a few weeks.” June is National Headache and Migraine Awareness Month and the National Headache Foundation is sharing information on the four most common types of headache and the best treatments for relief.

1. Tension What is it: Typically these originate in the neck or back of the head with muscle tension and creep forward.

Tension headache can be triggered by poor posture, lack of movement, eye strain, stress, and hunger. They can be chronic or infrequent.

Treatment: The occasional tension headache can be treated with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as aspirin or ibuprofen, as well as stretching and regular exercise. Chronic forms can be treated with amitriptyline or regular non-medication treatments including relaxation, developing coping strategies, acupuncture, massage therapy and physical therapy.

2. Sinus What is it: Common when you are sick or suffer from allergies, this type of

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headache is caused by inflammation in the sinus passage with pain usually presenting in the forehead, browbone, cheeks, eyes and nose. They are often accompanied by nasal congestion, sinus drainage or fever.

Treatment: Monitoring your allergies can play a major part in avoiding a sinus headache. When allergens are high, you can take an antihistamine. NSAIDs can also help relieve pressure by reducing the inflammation in your sinuses.

If you’re sick and suffering from a sinus headache, NSAIDs plus a decongestant can often be your best option. You may need your health care practitioner to prescribe an antibiotic if the sinus infection is caused by bacteria.

3. Cluster What is it: People with cluster headache often describe the pain as relentless stabbing sensations and experience attacks several times throughout a day for weeks at a time.

During a cluster headache series, the pain is always on the same side, usually around the eye, and can include nasal congestion, sinus drainage or a drooping eyelid. Research indicates cluster headache series can be more active in the spring and fall due to the changes in daylight and disruption in the sleep cycle with the time change. Unfortunately, some people will experience chronic cluster headache.

Treatment: Preventive treatments are available for cluster headache once a person is in an attack series.

During an acute attack, inhaling pure oxygen by mask is helpful.

4. Migraine What is it: Migraine disease is believed to be due to a hypersensitive nervous system that results in debilitating and recurring attacks of pain that can be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, dizziness or sensitivity to light and sound. Some migraine attacks are preceded by disturbance in vision or smell, known as an aura. For some, other symptoms begin 24 to 48 hours before the attack and can range from dizziness and fatigue to mood swings or extreme hunger. Known triggers of migraine include stress, hormonal changes, certain foods (cheeses, chocolate, preservatives), and beverages (caffeine, alcohol).

Treatment: Maintaining a regular sleep schedule, not skipping meals, and hydration can help prevent migraine attacks. Keeping a record of triggers can help you and your health care practitioner correctly diagnose and treat your migraine disease with lifestyle changes, prescription and over-the-counter medications, and non-drug therapies such as acupuncture, biofeedback training, and relaxation therapy.

“The next time your head pain strikes make note of the pain location, any potential triggers and have an honest conversation with your health care practitioner so they can help you get back to living your life,” concluded Martin.

For more information about headache disease or to find help, visit: www.headaches.org. (BPT) l

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IN NETWORK

A Person You Should Know

TYCE MILLER

Founder & CEO MobileMind Atlanta, Georgia

Who He Is: With over twenty years of experience in the software industry, Tyce’s career spans sales and sales leadership roles with companies such as SAS and AirWatch (VMware). While at AirWatch, Tyce led the Education Division, where he discovered traditional professional development for teachers was falling short with the pace of change and complexity of new mobile and cloud technologies.

Modernizing Professional Development: To address the need for more modern professional development for teachers, Tyce created MobileMind. The mission of this organization is to provide personalized learning opportunities that empower educators to transform learning with technology. Educators can use MobileMind’s personalized modern professional learning hub to complete differentiated micro-courses, based on activity-based learning that is rooted in pedagogy. Instructional leaders can view detailed progress reporting and track the increase in technology use by teachers in the classroom.

Future Minded: Tyce and the MobileMind team plan to build capacity in 2,250 school districts, and empower 800,000 educators through professional learning.

Evolving For Distance Learning: Successful businesses must be nimble to adapt to the current realities of the industry. With school districts moving to distance learning due to COVID-19, MobileMind adapted its offerings to provide courses that are foundational to online teaching.

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During these challenging and stressful times, it’s even more important than ever to take a moment to get out into the family yard – it’s your safe space. The TurfMutt Foundation reminds families that nature starts right outside your back door.

Let the proven benefits of green space give us a break from being cooped up inside and relieve the stresses of these times.

Listen to the birds. Watch the trees. Curl your toes in the grass. Work outside planting, or even mow the lawn.

The TurfMutt Foundation encourages you to get outside and de-stress outdoors even while social distancing but be responsible.

Here is the link: www.livinglandscapesmatter.com/wp-content/uploads/Outdoors-Social-Distancing.pdf

FEATURE kPHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF WWW.GOTURKEY.COM

WHERE DIFFERENT

TASTES MEET:

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ONE OF THE CUTEST TOWNS IN TURKEY, ALAÇATI IS THE MOST POPULAR FESTIVE SEASON DESTINATION ON THE AEGEAN COASTLINE WITH ITS RENOVATED STONE HOUSES, CHARMING BOUTIQUE HOTELS, DINING AND ENTERTAINMENT VENUES THAT OVERSPILL TO THE STREETS, AND COVES AND BEACHES EACH MORE BEAUTIFUL THAN

THE OTHER...KNOWN AS THE PEARL OF TURKEY, ALAÇATI IS A TOWN OF BEAUTIFUL İZMIR ON THE WESTERN COASTLINE, AND STANDS AS A FLAVOR CENTER WITH ITS LOCAL DISHES AND A VAST VARIETY OF MEZES MADE FROM AEGEAN HERBS.

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mbodying in full the refreshing spirit of the Aegean, Alaçatı takes you to a warm, sincere, and vivacious time with its colorful stone houses and narrow alleys. You want to stay at Alaçatı where you will be greeted by a historic twocentury old mastic tree as soon as you enter the town.

As you head towards the coast, you will start feeling that famous Alaçatı wind coming amidst the unique stone houses and cobblestone roads.

build them. This array of houses sees guests from all around the world off to the Alaçatı coastline.

Stone houses adorned by a motley collection of flowers are not only beautiful but also functional as they keep their residents cool in summers and warm in winters thanks to the specially cut stones used to

Rich Cuisine a Magnet

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As you wander in the narrow and beautiful alleys of Alaçatı, where the warm, sweet, and delightful Aegean atmosphere comes into existence, you will smell the scent of so many flowers. Bougainvillea, black pepper trees, mastic trees, mimosas, and fragrant jasmines will treat you both with their smell and sight.

After a walk on the colorful streets of Alaçatı, it is now time to indulge yourself and enjoy the Aegean cuisine. Alaçatı is one of the best destinations to eat “kumru”, a special

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This pleasant town is also famous for its variety of endemic herbs and festival organized in spring, during which these herbs are most available. In spring, people from all around Turkey flock into “Alaçatı Herb Festival”, which is both a congenial local marketplace and a festival that caters to all. At “Alaçatı Herb Festival”, make sure you enjoy everything around you from pastries with herbs to biscuits and desserts. Don’t forget to visit the big and small stores that sell jams, ceramics, trinkets, and unique souvenirs of the area. comfort dish unique to the region. Including sausages, fermented Turkish sausages, tomatoes, and tulum cheese stuffed inside the special kumru bread of İzmir, “kumru” is a great snack in summers as well as the best way to assuage your hunger after a swimming session in the sea.

Alaçatı treats its guests to an excellent feast with everything from snacks to the mezes and desserts.

Small restaurants hosting their patrons on old style small chairs and tables placed alongside the streets offer many flavors ranging from the specialty of the region, artichoke, to Aegean mezes and olive oil dishes where the traditional recipes meet the modern. After all these dishes that provide the lightness unique to the Mediterranean and which are a delight to see, taste and digest, it is now time for the dessert. Should you also wish to cool yourself, then make sure you save some space for Alaçatı’s very own mastic milk pudding (sakızlı muhallebi) and mastic ice cream (sakızlı dondurma).

Alaçatı with its Sea and the Wind Abundant wind over the blue waters makes Alaçatı an ideal spot particularly for water sports and windsurfing. With winds around 15-25 knots, Alaçatı is the choice of many amateur and professional windsurfers from all around the world. So much so that Alaçatı has almost become the home of windsurfing worldwide, as a result of which a large windsurfing center as well as many windsurfing schools are available along the shore.

Should you wish to get away from the hustle and bustle of Alaçatı, just try the Delikli Cove with its holey stones and pristine waters. This hidden cove also protects against the wind surrounding it, providing nothing short of a paradise for those who wish to enjoy the blue sea and serenity. For more about Turkey please visit www.goturkey.com. l MAY / JUNE 2020

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IN FLUENCE

Travel

5

TAKE TRAVEL ONLINE

IDEAS FOR A

VIRTUAL FAMILY

ADVENTURE

A DREAM VACATION IS THE PERFECT ANTIDOTE TO STRESS AND THE MONOTONY OF DAILY LIFE. WHEN A GETAWAY ISN’T IN THE CARDS, YOU CAN STILL ESCAPE AND EXPLORE NEW PLACES VIRTUALLY.

A

virtual trip can be a great way to explore destinations you might consider for a future vacation, or it may be a chance to see remarkable sights around the world that you wouldn’t get to experience otherwise. Virtual travel can also engage kids in learning when you pair the experience with lessons on culture, geography or even a homemade take on local culinary treats.

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Add authenticity to the experience with special touches that mimic the ambiance. If you’re visiting the beach, kick up the heat and turn on a fan for some breeze. Light a coconut-scented candle and enjoy a bowl of ice cream while you take in the sights.

Get your virtual adventures underway with these selections from the travel experts at Vrbo:

Look around the Louvre in Paris.

Explore the Egyptian Antiquities, remains of the Louvre’s Moat and Galerie d’Apollon by virtual museum tour as you head inside this iconic art lover’s institution.

Sneak inside the San Diego Zoo. Get up close and personal with the resident apes, penguins, pandas, giraffes, elephants and tigers in real time via one of the many live cams

positioned to spot wildlife from the comfort of your couch.

Walk the Great Wall of China. Make your Great Wall goals a reality. Get a glimpse of this 300-mile wonder of the world with a cyber stroll before dreaming up your own future family trip.

Watch big wave surfing in Maui.

Transport yourself to the beach as you watch white-knuckle surfing at its most surreal. Whether you’re a super fan or first-time spectator of the sport, it’s a compelling beach-cam watch and a welcome escape from the everyday.

Travel 352 million miles to Mars.

Feel a world away as you explore Mars from aboard NASA’s Curiosity Rover. Learn as you roam between its different mission sites for a virtual, yet realistic, view of the Red Planet’s remarkable landscape.

For families who miss traveling together, you can share the joys of your virtual journey through videoconferencing and adding some extra ambiance and a change of scenery by downloading a travel wallpaper for your meeting background. If the virtual destinations inspire you to visit in person someday, use resources like Vrbo’s Trip Boards to create a list of places to stay as soon as you can get away, and keep the dream going by sending the link to family members and asking them to vote and comment on their favorites. Find more travel-inspired ideas to pass your time at home at vrbo.com. (Family Features) l

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EXCLUSIVE

LOUIS

MANDYLOR IS LIVING HIS DREAM AND IS BETTER FOR IT!

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kINTERVIEW WRITTEN AND CONDUCTED BY

WILLIAM JACKSON, MBA, GQINSIDER, 2018 FOLIO: 100 HONOREE, FOUNDER & CHIEF BUSINESS OFFICER OF INFLUENTIAL MAGAZINE, SPANISH INFLUENTIAL, AND TEEN INFLUENTIAL PHOTOGRAPHY BY ISABELLE RUEN GROOMING STYLED BY STARR SARKISYAN PHOTOGRAPHY ASSISTANT / DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY JEREMY LYNN

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EXCLUSIVE

CRITICALLY ACCLAIMED GREEK – AUSTRALIAN ACTOR LOUIS MANDYLOR IS MOST RECOGNIZED FOR HIS LEADING CREDITS IN A VARIETY OF HIGHLY ACCLAIMED, AWARD-WINNING FILMS, AND TELEVISION SERIES, INCLUDING THE ACADEMY AWARD-NOMINATED BOX OFFICE SMASH HIT COMEDY, MY BIG FAT GREEK WEDDING, AND ITS SEQUEL MY BIG FAT GREEK WEDDING 2.

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ouis is known also for his leading credits throughout the Primetime Emmy Award nominated series CSI, CSI Miami and CSI New York, Friends, the ALMA Award-winning drama sports film Price of Glory, CBS hit show Martial Law with Sammo Hung, and Can’t Hurry Love with Mariska Hargitay and Nancy McKeon recently claiming some praise reviews for his anticipated release of The Debt Collector 2.

The seasoned actor is a director as well. Louis’ film, The Blackout, after opening best seller on Redbox, got quite a lot of positive attention on Amazon.

Louis is also releasing two films he directed in 2019, Christmas Down Under, a comedy about an American girl who is lost in Sydney Australia, and Smokers, a heartfelt action movie about a legionnaire heading home for redemption. Come aboard with me as I chat exclusively with the award-winning Louis Mandylor. He’s down to

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earth and authentic and I’m glad I had the opportunity to share air space with this influential actor. Learn more about Louis by visiting www.louismandylor.net.

William Jackson: Louis, I’d like to know if the dream you dreamed about having this career has already exceeded the dream?

Louis Mandylor: My initial dream was to illustrate for Marvel Comics. Funny how things work out. Nowadays I story board my own films, so the art comes in handy.

It also helps with framing and visual aesthetics of a motion picture. I’m blessed to have the career I have, but I believe I’m just getting started with my craft as an actor and my obsession as a filmmaker.

William: Are you ready now to dream a new dream?

Louis: This career is like a little forest forever growing; it’s always evolving, and I try to adapt. Also, I’m very much into music. I’m in post-production for my film, Smokers, and doing an original soundtrack to the film which is a first for me. So, in a way I’m always ready to dream a new, bigger, better, and more authentic dream. Oh, I’m finally getting into social media, relaxing, and working a new official site and YouTube channel.

William: With respect to selecting acting roles, some believe what one says no to is equally as important as what one says yes to. What are your thoughts?

Louis: “No” is sometimes necessary as signing onto the wrong film can absolutely damage you. But an artist must carefully balance the risks with the reality of needing to make a living. So, saying “yes” is sometimes regrettable, but those steak dinners always go down well.

William: Your career is on a constant upward trajectory, which of course, is awesome. What is your formula for staying grounded and balanced?

Louis: I’m blessed to be on a constant upward trend and always ready to work. Because I direct films as well, I’m aware of the stress that often accompanies the process of production. Working with actors who are excellent at their craft and bring a positive attitude makes my role as a director, much easier.

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A key to helping me remain balanced is to be open.

I’ve played a multitude of different characters and embrace each as an opportunity to grow. Additionally, I love to draw, write songs, write scripts, and train hard in martial arts. These all help keep me grounded.

William: Are you a spiritual person?

Louis: Until I lose my temper, I’m the most spiritual person you’ll ever meet. I’m like many, I read and practice certain rituals, and cross train in my yoga mixed arts. On my media outlets, I plan to release a home or gym exercise routine. I’ve been working on it for a while and it’s life changing.

William: Being a spiritual person means what to you?

Louis: A monk would be considered spiritual as he mediates and ohhhhmmmsss all day. But a martial artist kicks ass and does a similar thing, somehow.

Maybe it’s a way of life, a reflection on harmony, on balance awareness, and collective consciousness of growth for the betterment of us and the earth?

William: Do you think you live the life you do because of the benefit of being a spiritual person?

Louis: No. I’ve lost. I’ve been too kind in some ways. It absolutely helps me personally, but workwise, I’ve let emotion and passion influence my decisions which often results in bad business decisions.

“

A key to helping me remain balanced is to be open.

I’ve played a multitude of different characters and embrace each as an opportunity to grow. Additionally, I love to draw, write songs, write scripts, and train hard in martial arts.

These all help keep me grounded.

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EXCLUSIVE

LOUIS

MANDYLOR IS LIVING HIS DREAM AND IS BETTER FOR IT!

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William: Share with me about growing up Mandylor and the impact your family had on you being the productive and successful adult you are?

Louis: A large aspect of “family” includes what is inherited from DNA. Important to me is behaviors and upbringing.

Growing up in my family was great. Dad was a cruiser and great to us. Mom encouraged me to go see the world and then settle down when ready. She was always my rock and she still is to this day. We grew up fast and rough and knew we had our parent’s support.

William: What are the lessons from your family that had the greatest impact, thus allowing you to be most self-aware?

Louis: My father was extremely strict, and my mother was and still is a gun. She owned houses, hair salons, and worked all day and dealt with quite a lot for a woman during my childhood. She was my biggest influence. My father raised us in a military sort of way for certain things like being diligent about chores.

William: Do you have a physical vision board?

Louis: Not anymore; maybe again soon. Right now, I’ve three books and a laptop. I write text in notebooks and log in visions and goals and deadliness.

William: Being the truest version of yourself means what to you?

Louis: My purpose has changed over the years. I decided many years ago to stop undue stressing. We all have, I believe, this underlying fear and stress, even when things are great. I said “Louis from now on, don’t do anything you don’t want to. Don’t see anyone you care not to. And, do all those things you really enjoy.

Do them. And, never be afraid to say NO.” This attitude has made such a huge difference.

William: Louis, how are you living your best life?

Louis: I travel and live half the year in Europe and the other half in California. My best life is making my family happy, doing what I love, make art to the best of my ability, and making my friends and fans feel fulfilled when they watch our films. l MAY / JUNE 2020

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