March / April 2020 Teen InFluential

Teen WWW.INFLUENTIAL-MAGAZINE.COM MARCH / APRIL 2020

We’re Heading Toward a Feel-Good Spring!

Are You Ready for College Entrance Exams?

HOW TO DRESS FOR A FEEL-GOOD

SPRING

Start Your Day Strong with Breakfast

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF KACYYOM.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Beauty

08 | Boost Your Weekend Self-Care

Routine for a Night In or Out 10 | Do You Dream of Being Prom Queen?

Feature

30 | Turning Gaming

into a Career: How Girls are Taking the Reins 68 | 1-2-3 Simple Plant-Based Food Swaps to Eat Better

Education

34 | Are You Ready for College

Entrance Exams?

36 | Tips for Students and Teachers to Get Through the Midyear Slump

Fashion

40 | How to Dress

for a Feel-Good Spring 42 | Mode-Relier – Pro Styling App Made Fun and Easy for Instagram Generation

Food & Beverage

58 | Start Your Day Strong

with Breakfast 64 | Simple, Plant-Powered Summer Meals

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF KACYYOM. 2

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FASHION EDITORIAL

[ ] 16 | READY TO PLAY! 46 | FEATURING

ARTURO OBEGERO ACADEMIA AUTUMN WINTER 2020 78 | LET QUALITY AND SUSTAINABILITY BECOME YOUR BIGGEST LUXURY WITH KACYYOM

Health & Wellness

72 | Teen with Rare Illness Gets

Wish to Create Comic Book

Lifestyle

74 | What to Consider Before Buying a Used Car 76 | Are Your ‘Recyclable’ Products Actually Recyclable?

Money

88 | 3 Expert Pay Negotiation

Tips for Women 90 | 2020 is a Year for Savings - 8 in 10 People Plan to Save More

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ART & PRODUCTION Creative Director William Jackson, MBA, GQ Insider, 2018 Folio: 100 Honoree Beauty Editor Kelli Ponce Fashion & Style Editor William Jackson, MBA, GQ Insider, 2018 Folio: 100 Honoree Contributing Photographer Barely Xtensions KACYYOM Arturo Obegero Creative Services What Taller Gráfico Argenis Gudino Jose Luis Venegas Quintero Web Design The MOD Studio Website Administration W. Jackson & Associates, LLC SALES & MARKETING Business Development William Jackson, MBA, GQ Insider, 2018 Folio: 100 Honoree James Nelson, Technology Editor Marketing & Public Relations W. Jackson & Associates, LLC

EDITORIAL CREDITS

For advertising inquiries please email ads@influential-magazine.com.

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 Editor: Nicole Glenn Jr. Editor: Hayley Pugh Beauty Editor: Kelli Ponce Fashion & Style Editor: William Jackson, MBA, GQ Insider, 2018 Folio: 100 Honoree Health & Wellness Editor: Ingrid Garner Technology Editor: James Nelson

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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.

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY KACYYOM WWW.KACYYOM.COM

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

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

For Fashion & Style inquiries please email our Fashion & Style Editor, William Jackson at William@influential-magazine.com.

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

For Technology inquiries please email our Technology Editor, James Nelson at James@influential-magazine.com.

For public relations inquiries please email pr@influential-magazine.com.

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

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

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

Teen InFluential is Round Rock, Texas owned and operated.

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OUR PUBLISHER’S NOTE Hello InFluentials: For sure We’re Heading Toward a Feel-Good Spring! and are glad you’re taking this journey with the Teen InFluential family.

There are so many noteworthy situations happening around the world which may affect each of us personally in one way or another. For us and our families to be adequately prepared, many are having to change the way in which we view and utilize media sources. More than ever, reliable and reputable information sources are important. We encourage everyone to make decisions based on facts disseminated via reliable sources. It’s also important to maintain an appropriate sense of balance when it comes to our decision-making and reaction processes.

During times of heighten global challenges, it’s important to be deliberate in our efforts to maintain a balanced mental, physical, financial, and spiritual health and wellness program. Toward this goal, we’re pleased we’ve been committed to contributing useful tips and tricks in each edition of Teen InFluential. Our March / April edition is all about feeling great, whatever that means individually. Do you understand the benefits of starting your day strong with breakfast? We explore that topic. We share useful tips about what do consider before buying a used car.

As we watch events around the world unfold, we hope sincerely for the best. We hope to emerge more informed, much stronger, and keenly aware of the importance of healthy lifestyle and showing proper consideration, and dare we say affection, for all with whom we share the earth, our most beautiful home.

May you continue to have peace and prosperity.

Warmly,

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

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Teen BOOST YOUR WEEKEND

Self-CareRoutine FOR A NIGHT IN OR OUT

Whether you’re planning on having a solo night in, hanging out with your girlfriends or have a date planned with your sweetheart, weekends are a great opportunity for some extra-special self-care.

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BEAUTY lan to be sure you have all the essentials you need to boost your self-care routine for a relaxing night in or fun night out.

P

ever. You can add a drop of your favorite essential oil to your scrub that will offer aromatherapy and make your shower smell like a high-end spa.

Head-to-Toe TLC

Cleanse Your Way

When was the last time you treated yourself so that you could feel good inside and out? Show some serious TLC to your skin, nails and hair with a DIY treatment to give yourself the ultimate full-body pampering session. Try these ideas for enhancing your self-care routine:

To feel fresh from head to toe, use a wash that you can trust to gently cleanse even your most intimate areas. Summer’s Eve(R) Cleansing Wash is essential while prepping in the shower for a night in or out. Clinically and gynecologist tested, it refreshes by removing odor-causing bacteria, is designed to match your natural pH level, and is free from dyes and parabens. The cleansing washes feature an array of Clinically Tested Safe Scents(TM) or even Fragrance Free.

Get That Glow While there are a suite of serums and creams on the market that give your face a gorgeous glow, what about your body?

Whether you want to show off smooth legs in that new mini skirt or just want soft, healthy skin to slip into your silk PJs, try making your own homemade body scrub. All you need is one cup of brown sugar and half a cup of coconut oil for an exfoliating, yet soothing scrub that will leave your body feeling smoother than

Instagram-Worthy Manicure Give yourself a mani at home so you don’t have to break the bank at a pricey salon. With nail design inspiration on social feeds, creating a fresh and trendy nail look at home is easier than ever. A new favorite design of nail aficionados is the minimalist negative space manicure that focuses on painting only the mid-to-top portion of the nail with a color and leaving the lower nail bed area bare. Keep it simple and

finish the design with a topcoat or add in a nail jewel or sticker for a bit of extra glam.

Luscious Locks Infuse your hair with moisture and softness by creating a natural oil mask with ingredients you can find in your own kitchen. Rich oils like extra virgin olive oil, coconut oil or avocado oil are perfect for getting strands moisturized. Give hair a quench of hydration by working in a small amount of oil from your scalp through the ends of your hair, then wrap your hair in a warm damp towel and relax for 10-20 minutes. Shampoo your hair thoroughly and condition as usual.

Whether you give yourself a blowout or air-dry hair naturally, you’ll notice how soft to the touch your locks will be.

Set the Mood for a Night In or Out As you enjoy your self-care prep for a cozy movie night in or date night out, don’t forget to set the mood at your place. First, make sure you use your favorite delivery app to order wine and snacks from your favorite local shops.

Next, hit play on your favorite playlist that will either help you wind down or get you excited for a date or girls’ night.

If you’re going out, pack purse-sized products like dry shampoo, concealer, your favorite lipstick for touch-ups and Summer’s Eve(R) Cleansing Cloths for freshening on the go, especially if you have a long night of dining and dancing ahead of you.

Self-care shouldn’t be limited to a special occasion. Put regular dates for at home wellness sessions in your calendar. Treating yourself is always worth doing. (BPT) l

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DO YOU DREAM OF

BeingProm Queen?

Barely Xtensions Offers Tips for a Magical, Memorable, and Fashionable Prom Night

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rom is a rite of passage, a magical night with friends, and an event to remember for the rest of your life. So, what look are you going for this year? Will you pull off the perfect dress, shoes, hairstyle and makeup? The Barely Xtensions team wants to help everyone look (and feel) their best for this special celebration.

“This is your chance to debut your inner prom queen, whether you’re rocking a dramatic ballgown or prefer a more bodycon, slinky look. Bring on the sequins and sparkles. Turn up the volume and turn on the fun,” said Stephanie Peters, Brand & Product Development

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Director at Barely Xtensions. The Barely Xtensions team offers these tips for a spectacular prom night:

• Holla for Holo. The hologram look is sizzling hot for prom 2020! Create a kaleidoscope of color by wearing 4-D dresses of Iridescent Shimmer or gorgeous multi-dimensional hair. Get a holo hairstyle by using styling products like Color Bombz Holographic Mousse with hair extensions to add length, volume and color. Pick colors that shift like magic as you dance the night away, and create a stunning, unique and memorable look.

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About Barely Xtensions Barely Xtensions is the Ultra-Seamless difference in hair extensions, offering affordable luxury and easy application. A revolutionary SlimClip Technology provides a smooth and sleek undetectable finish in dimensional colors. From natural highlights, lowlights and balayage to blends of pink or grey. Find the latest styles and products like the 3-in-1 Hair Wrap and ponytail exclusively at Sally Beauty throughout the United States and Canada.

For fashion inspiration visit the website at barelyxtensions.com or connect with Barely Xtensions at Instagram/ barelyxtensions, Facebook/ barelyxtensions, Twitter/ barelyxtensions, and Pinterest/barelyxtensions.

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Teen • Baby Got Back. You’ve thought about making a powerful entrance, but have you considered the look from the rear-view mirror? Make a statement with a backless dress, or one that has beautiful details on the back of the gown. Maximize impact with a tousled updo like a French twist or sleek bun with face framing tendrils for softness, which will let everyone admire your beautiful back. Plan ahead by using self-tanner in the days leading up to the prom, and emphasize your assets with strategically placed highlighter on your face and body.

•

Be pretty in pink (or other pastels). Pastels are popular in pink, light yellow, soft blue, and pale green and complement most complexions, especially if your skin has a healthy glow. (Pro tip: moisturize in advance!)

Your light-colored dress (or hair!) will look sensational with some strategically placed hair accessories, such as side twists secured with embellished hairclips or a half-up, half-down look using pearl barrettes. Add length and volume with hair extensions for an ethereal, princess-y look and feel.

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Bring Disco Back! Jump aboard the soul train and shake your groove thang. Get the outfit, cosmetics, nails and hair to glitter, gleam and shine like a true disco queen. Dance the night away in a shiny, shimmery, metallic dress that will sparkle under the lights and help you light up the night. Rock a sleek ponytail or bun, then pump up the volume with 3-in-1 Hair Wrap or ponytail.

Combine with a jewel headband and you’re ready to party.

•

Jump into a Jumpsuit. Jumpsuits are having a moment, and they’ll be a scorching hot look for prom 2020. Slay on prom night wearing a powerful, glamorous one-piece outfit. Jumpsuits can be as formal and appropriate as a prom dress, while also being unexpected, stylish and daring. There are tons of options, with a variety of colors and styles.

The Barely Xtensions team loves a fancy jumpsuit that ties into another prom trend, like metallic or disco. Wear dramatic makeup and a slicked-back hairdo to complete the look.

•

Just do You. Embrace and express your own personal style. Some of the best looks are achieved as a mix of vintage dresses and modern accessories.

Grab something girly but give it an edge or update that is unique or rent a dress if you can’t decide. Seize the opportunity to be your best (authentic) self, and that’s the most beautiful look in the world.l

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FASHION EDITORIAL

Ready to

Play! kDIRECTED BY WILLIAM JACKSON, MBA, GQ INSIDER, 2018 FOLIO: 100 HONOREE CHIEF CREATIVE DIRECTOR FOR INFLUENTIAL MAGAZINE, SPANISH INFLUENTIAL, AND TEEN INFLUENTIAL.

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Careers in the video game industry are highly desirable, and for good reason.

Working for a video game company can be rewarding, and equally important, turns a favorite pastime into an exciting career.

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FEATURE

H

owever, for tween and teen girl gamers, the prospect of one day working in the video game industry may seem daunting. While 46% of the U.S. gamer population is female, women account for only 22% of video game developers.

Women are taking the reins developing, designing and marketing video games.

Lisa Wackenhuth Svanstrรถm, a 3D Artist at Star Stable Entertainment, a multiplayer game featuring horses, magic and adventure, offers career advice to young women who may want a career in the video game industry:

TURNING GAMING INTO A CAREER:

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What inspired you to build a career in the video game industry?

“I am a lifelong gamer, artist and digital creator and now, my official title at Star Stable is 3D Artist. Working for a company like this allows me to unite my interests and skills to create magic for girl gamers around the world. The artistic process of designing the 3D horses inspires me the most. It is so rewarding to have an idea in my mind, sketch out a new design and work with all the visuals such as 3D models, characters, textures, environments, props and ultimately release the final product for horse-loving girls who play our game every day.”

2

What are the types of jobs for women in the development studio?

“To build a game, artists (3D, 2D, VFX and animators), designers and programmers need to work closely together from start to finish. Artists work on the overall creative vision. Designers work with the mechanics and features.

Then, programmers use their coding knowledge to bring it all to life. We work with producers to make sure that all tasks associated with the development process are completed on time and tracking with the overall vision of the

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project. As the industry continues to grow and evolve, developers focused on mobile and virtual/mixed reality are in high demand, as are tech animators, who use a combination of creative and animation skills to solve issues related to art production.”

3

What other types of jobs do women have in the industry outside the development studio?

“It takes dozens of people with specific skillsets for a video game company to succeed. Community managers interact with players daily to ensure they are having a positive experience with the game and make sure fan feedback is implemented.

We also have women running the business at the executive level and as product managers and business developers. There are multiple opportunities, inside and out of the development studio, so you must embrace your skills and interests to find which career path you would enjoy most.”

4

What are the most important skills needed to succeed?

“Budding video game developers need to network, to get to know different game engines, become familiar with 2D and 3D software, and try new games all

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the time. Then, become a specialist in the aspect that interests you the most.

Developing specific skills is important but developing into a well-rounded person with a broad view of the world is equally important. It is also good to dive into sports, learn the arts, take a computer class or explore theater. Never stop learning and challenging yourself.”

5

What advice do you have for young girls who want a career in video games?

“A career in the video game industry, perhaps born out of a hobby or passion, is legitimate and can be profitable too. Today, there are dedicated game developing programs at universities.

And, finding a role model is key. Seek opinions from colleagues or bosses who have different work than yours - find a marketer, back-end programmer or member of the executive team and learn from them.

“It’s also important to find a company that embraces women in all roles and embodies a culture of inclusivity and accessibility - the Star Stable team is more than 50% women. Finally, give back. If every woman who is part of the 22% proactively mentors other young women, imagine the next generation who will one day grow up to become our colleagues!” (BPT) l

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kPHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF WWW.ARTSTATION.COM/LISA WACKENHUTH SVANSTRÖM

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Teen ARE YOU READY FOR

CollegeEntrance Exams? kPHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF (C) MONKEYBUSINESSIMAGES / ISTOCK VIA GETTY IMAGES PLUS.

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EDUCATION While a student’s long record of academic achievement is generally the most important measure that colleges take under consideration during the admissions process, getting as prepared for one’s college entrance exams as possible is a great idea.

ding what the scores are used to determine, can help you get motivated to succeed.

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When it comes to the mathematics portion of the exam, it’s important to know that graphing and scientific calculators are allowed. Calculators for College Boards available from Casio offer an affordable solution to aid in the preparation for college entrance exams. Whatever Here are a few things to calculator students choose know going into the process: to use for their exams they Almost all four-year insshould familiarize themselves titutions of higher learning with completely so that come require that candidates exam day, they can easily submit either SAT or ACT manipulate its features and scores with some requiring functions. To that end, students should use the calculastrictly one or the other. tor when taking practice tests Certain selective schools also require SAT Subject Tests and AP and consider using it in the classroom and Tests. Check which tests you’ll need to when doing homework. take to apply to your schools of choice.

You may also want to check the average Testing rules and format have evolscores of last year’s incoming freshmen. ved over time. Be sure any preparation materials you use are current so that they Find out whether the schools to deliver accurate information about what which you are applying look at the to expect and reflect the kind of quesscore of every test you take or only tions you’ll actually face on test day. your top score. If they look at every score, you may want to avoid taking the test Your practice tests should resemble until you’re feeling completely confident. the real test day as much as possible, so If they look at only the top score, consider have handy only tools which are allowed in taking the test multiple times (if money the testing facility, putting away any other and time allow) until you get the score reference materials or distractions. with which you’re satisfied.

While the process of preparing for and Each institution weighs scores a bit taking college entrance exams can be differently. Some colleges use entrance nerve-wracking, sufficient preparation exam scores in order to place incoming and the right tools can give you the confreshmen in classes. Some schools use the fidence you need to be successful on test scores to award scholarships. Understan- day. (StatePoint) l

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TipsforStudentsand

O

TO GET THROUGH THE MIDYEAR SLUMP

ne solution to staying motivated?

Adding some color and vibrancy to everyday tools used in the classroom. Here are five ideas for doing so:

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A change of scenery has the power to inspire. Students can revamp their lockers and desks at home with new decorations, artwork and organizational tools, like a color-coded bulletin board.

Teachers can make the same updates to classrooms to give students and themselves a fresh perspective.

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EDUCATION

ndTeachers

fun and useful tool to see them through finals, college entrance exams and more.

• If you didn’t purchase new accessories like backpacks, gym bags or laptop cases at the beginning of the school year, maybe it’s time for a refresh. Slick new carrying essentials can give a student greater confidence while traveling from home to the classroom and help brighten the school day.

There comes a certain point during every school year when students and educators alike are at risk of suffering from a midyear slump.

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Add a fun splash of color to musicmaking. With Casiotone CT-S200 keyboards, you can select from vibrant red or white, in addition to the standard black. The ability to hook up to any portable music player so that the user can play any music downloaded to the device offers versatility in lesson planning, practice and performance.

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Any calculator can be easily customized with skins, but if you want to keep it simple, some models are stylish and colorful right out of the box. One such example is the fx-9750GII. Available in black, blue or pink, this can be a great way to give young mathematicians a

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From quotes and messages greeting students each morning to building out lessons with pictures from around the globe, a projector designed to work well in the classroom, such as the Casio Ultra Short Throw projector XJ-U351, can be a versatile tool for teachers looking to liven things up or engage students in a lively conversation.

By embracing colorful tools, students and teachers can work their way out of the midyear slump for a strong finish to the school year. (StatePoint) l

kPHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF (C) DIEGO_CERVO / ISTOCK VIA GETTY.

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HOW TO DRESS FOR A With spring just around the corner, there’s no better time to refresh your look and brighten your mood.

So, pick up a new pair of vintage jeggings, mix it up with pretty utility details, and let those pedi-ready toes come out and play.

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hether you want to brighten up your closet now from the dreary winter blacks and grays (or later), or get ready for that springbreak vacation in between, you can find everything you need at maurices store or at maurices.com. For more inspiration, follow these tips to spruce up your wardrobe:

• Mix in pretty utility: Give your outfit a pretty utility twist with the must-have trend of the season. Pair feminine tops featuring eyelet and ruffles with utility weekender pants for now, or an effortless utility romper for later. Want to dress up your look in a dash? Try a pretty top with a button-up skirt that’s anything but expected. Tie it all together with jewelry, wedge sandals, and dinner plans.

• Layer on the compliments: Get into the swing of spring with kimonos, dusters and oversized denim

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Feel-Good • Jumpsuits, dresses, all yeses:

jackets you can count on from brrr to brighter days ahead. Try a lightweight floral kimono over a tee (and under a jacket if you still need one) or make a statement with a longer-length duster cardi or denim trench jacket you’ll wear again. Finish the look with flyaway pants or jeans for an outfit that’s oh-so good.

Say hello to instant spring outfits with new pretty dresses or flattering jumpsuits you can effortlessly pull off.

To dress up your look for date night, add heels and jewelry or keep it casual for brunch or a coffee run with sneakers and a denim jacket.

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• Pair skirts with graphic tees? :

Say hello to 24/7 tees and tanks: Tee up spring in 24/7 tees and tanks with endless versatility and irresistible softness that feel as good as they look.

You’ll love how easy they are to style. Dress it up with an animal print tee paired back with bengaline pants and a blazer or keep it laid back with a drop-shoulder tee in floral or stripes with maurices’ Everflex jeans, so good you’ll want to live in them - now with new details, washes and crop lengths just in time for spring.

• Spring forward in throwback

denim: Authentic vintage jeggings

that feel as good as your favorite pair of broken-in jeans, with more washes, destruction, rises, sizes and fits than ever before. For effortless comfy style, pair with a floral tank and denim jacket or try a baseball tee with white or gray sneakers ... perfect for all of those lastminute plans that keep popping up.

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Make a fun statement by pairing graphic tees with skirts this season. Just pick the tee (and skirt) that speaks to you, style it with a front tuck and you’re out the door in five.

Another instant outfit? Done and done!

• Work in confidence: Long story short ... from work tops that wow to popular bengaline pants, you’ll find yourself making more plans to go from nine to whenever. Whether you’ve got an interview lined up or want to make a good first impression, our bengaline pants are extra flattering, know how to work around the clock, and now come in a spring-ready crop.

Want more ways to feel good?

Follow @maurices on Instagram for outfit inspiration that’s sure to make your day or visit your nearest maurices store to book a free styling session. (NewsUSA) l

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Spring

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sers can categorize by item, color, fabric, brand and size.

Before even trying anything on, users can load items into “style rooms” then virtually mix, match and edit to come up with the best possible combinations

of looks. Anyone can swipe together as many combinations as they want, save each look, organize by days or events, all of which can be made available to review or change with ease. It even goes beyond other apps by allowing side by side

comparison of the user’s profile interface to account for hair color and skin tone in seeing the full effect of any ensemble.

Mode Relier also has additional functions include sharing “style rooms”

Mode-Relier–

PRO STYLING APP MADE FUN AND EASY FOR INSTAGRAM GENERATION

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with friends or styling clients to preplan various looks ahead of events, dates, or packing for vacations. One can also collect images of fashions to purchase and coordinate them remotely. Seeing and putting together ensembles virtually prevents problems of buying something that may not work well with other pieces. Users can also browse through various shopping sites for items that may look great with their wardrobes and may be purchased through the app. Mode-Relier is an iOS app, available free to download at the App Store, and optimized for iPhones.

Mode-Relier was conceived by entrepreneur Michelle Lee to help working women, busy mothers, professional stylists, and even social media influencers better navigate styling choices by reducing this time

and labor-intensive process. Michelle’s work in finance got her foot into the garment business, leading her to operate her own fashion brand and manufacturing company. She dealt with major department stores such as Macy’s and Dillards and had the opportunity to work alongside stylists in crafting and putting together looks that would resonate with modern women.

Her vocation for painting as a creative expression enabled her to gain a better appreciation and expertise in the use of colors. This served the groundwork in envisioning the app to address the needs of busy women everywhere.

From work to play, from vacation to Instagram posts, Mode-Relier is the fast, convenient and fun way for everyone to get that perfectly curated look. mode-relier.coml

Professional stylists and influencers are discovering a convenient and easier way to curate, edit, organize wardrobes and style looks with fashion app Mode-Relier.

The name is loosely translated as “fashion connection” to describe this styling tool’s user-friendly dashboard features for uploading personal profile and catalog a full range of fashion items into a virtual closet. kPHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF MODE-RELIER

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Delving once more into the world of performing arts, Arturo Obegero imagines a universe based on a fictional dance company, the Academia.

Featuring

rturo Obegero

Academia Autumn Winter 2020

kSTYLING ARTURO OBEGERO @A.OBEGERO JEWELLERY AND TEXTILE DEVELOPMENT @ALVAROMARTINEZ ASSISTANT @IMAMESS_XX EMBROIDERY @TMTHIBAULT CASTING @HYBRA PHOTOGRAPHY @NIMASAMIEEPH @BENOIT.AUGUSTE HAIR @UNITEHAIRCARE MAKE UP @HICHAM_ABABSA @MAKEUPFORVERACADEMY MUSIC @MASSIVEATTACKOFFICIAL PRESS @TOTEMFASHION ALEXIS@TOTEMFASHION.COM PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF ARTURO OBEGERO.

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Obegero took inspiration from 5 of his favourite classic ballet plays – Manuel de Falla’s El Amor Brujo, Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake, Jean-Louis Vaudoyer’s Le Spectre de la Rose, Sergei Prokofiev’s Romeo and Juliet, and Christoph Willibald Gluck’s Orfeo ed Euridice – to create clothes that speak not only visually but emotionally.

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begero explored the meaning of these romantic as dramatic love stories to fuel his creativity before reinterpreting them in today’s sartorial language. A surrealist crossover occurs as the characters from he plays merge with Obegero’s own dramatis personae. They all navigate through darkness and light, love and betrayal, sensuality and abstraction.

Silhouetting is a key part of the style vocabulary Obegero is creating.

With ACADEMIA AW20, the designer sharpens his signature highwaisted silhouette – with an emphasis on cinched silk satin waistlines – and proposes shapes evoking or creating movement.

Obegero sourced silk crepe, ribbed cotton, and technical jerseys to fulfil the utmost of comfort without forgetting style. Obegero’s go-to pitch black and pure white meet a palette composed of scarlet red, the burgundy of a dried rose, and the softness of a periwinkle blue.

White ostrich feathers dancing in-between two layers of revealing jersey convey the poetry and emotions of twinning ensembles. l

“I wanted to create a collection of garments with a soul, and with a story to which the wearer can add his own.”

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Featuring

rturo Obegero

Academia Autumn Winter 2020

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FLUENTIAL 55

Teen START YOUR DAY STRONG WITH

Breakfast

Starting the morning on the right foot can help set a path toward a successful day, and for many, that strong start begins with breakfast. In fact, a lot of research supports the idea of having a balanced meal in the morning. When you turn to breakfast to fuel your morning, look for seasonal recipes that provide a delicious way to start your day.

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or example, you can skip highsugar grains with refined carbohydrates like doughnuts and pastries to instead opt for savory, protein-rich dishes like this Asparagus and Goat Cheese Frittata and Fluffy Scrambled Eggs. If you’re an on-the-go eater, try easily transportable recipes like a Tropical Green Smoothie or Vanilla Almond Crunch Overnight Oats.

These breakfast recipes are bolstered by the rich, creamy texture and nutrition profile of fairlife ultra-filtered milk, a lactose-free option with 50% more protein, 50% less sugar and 30% more calcium than regular milk. The recipes also take advantage of fresh, seasonal ingredients. Find more breakfast inspiration at fairlife.com.

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Asparagus and Goat Cheese Frittata Prep time: 21 minutes Servings: 4 4 large eggs 1/4 cup fairlife 2% Ultra-Filtered Milk

1/4 teaspoon kosher or sea salt, plus additional, to taste, divided

freshly ground black pepper, to taste

1/3 cup thinly sliced basil leaves, plus additional for serving

2 teaspoons olive oil

10 medium asparagus spears, cut into 1 1/2-inch lengths

2 tablespoons finely chopped shallot or red onion

1 1/2 ounces soft goat cheese, crumbled (1/4 cup)

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Heat oven to 400ยบ with rack in middle. In large bowl, beat eggs, milk, 1/4 teaspoon salt and pepper, to taste; beat in 1/3 cup basil until just combined.

In 8-10-inch ovenproof nonstick skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking. Add asparagus and salt and pepper, to taste. Reduce heat to medium and cook, stirring occasionally, 5 minutes. Add shallot and continue cooking until asparagus spears are lightly golden and just tender, 2-4 minutes.

Pour in egg mixture. Cook 1 minute then scatter goat cheese on top.

Bake until frittata is set, 4-6 minutes. Using spatula, slide onto cutting board then sprinkle with salt, to taste, and additional basil. Cut into wedges. Serve warm.

Nutritional information per serving: 140 calories; 10 g total fat; 190 mg cholesterol; 200 mg sodium; 3 g total carbohydrates; 10 g protein.

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FOOD & BEVERAGE

Vanilla Almond Crunch Overnight Oats Prep time: 10 minutes, plus at least 6 hours refrigeration Servings: 2 1/2 (about 2 1/2 cups each)

1 carton (5-6 ounces) non-fat or low-fat vanilla Greek yogurt 2 teaspoons pure honey 2 teaspoons flax seeds 2 pinches cinnamon 2 pinches kosher salt 4 tablespoons blanched, slivered or sliced almonds 1 cup rolled oats 1 cup fairlife Fat-Free UltraFiltered Milk

Toppings (optional): cut berries or citrus additional yogurt additional flax seeds or almonds

Divide yogurt, honey, flax seeds, cinnamon, kosher salt, almonds, oats and milk evenly between two 8-10-ounce glass jars or small glass bowls with tightfitting lids.

Securely close or cover containers; refrigerate at least 6 hours, or up to 48 hours.

When ready to serve, remove lid, stir and top with berries or citrus, yogurt and flax seeds or almonds, if desired.

Nutritional information per serving: 380 calories; 9 g total fat; less than 5 mg cholesterol; 280 mg sodium; 53 g total carbohydrates; 22 g protein.

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Tropical Green Smoothie

Prep time: 5 minutes Servings: 2 (8 fluid ounces each)

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1 cup fresh baby spinach or baby kale 3/4 cup fairlife 2% UltraFiltered Milk 1 ripe banana 2/3 cup fresh or frozen diced pineapple 1 lime, zest only

1 lime, cut into wedges 1 tablespoon virgin coconut oil 3/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract 1 pinch ground cinnamon 3/4 cup ice (optional)

In blender, blend spinach, milk, banana, pineapple, lime zest, juice of one lime wedge, coconut oil, vanilla extract,

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cinnamon and ice, if desired, until smooth. If refrigerating prior to serving, omit ice.

Nutritional information per serving: 120 calories; 2 g total fat; 5 mg cholesterol; 55 mg sodium; 22 g total carbohydrates; 6 g protein.

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Fluffy Scrambled Eggs Prep time: 10 minutes Servings: 4 6 large eggs

1/3 cup fairlife Whole UltraFiltered Milk

1/8 teaspoon kosher salt, plus additional, to taste, divided

pepper, to taste

and lemon-colored, about 1 minute. Use immersion blender for extra fluffiness, if desired. Set aside.

In medium bowl, vigorously whisk eggs until about double in volume and light

Pour egg-milk mixture into lightly greased skillet over low heat. Let setup 1

In separate bowl, vigorously whisk milk until light and frothy, about 30 seconds.

Gently fold frothy milk and 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt into fluffy eggs.

minute then use silicone spatula to gently fold eggs over on top of themselves. Rest and repeat until cooked through.

Serve with salt and pepper, to taste.

Nutritional information per serving: 120 calories; 8 g total fat; 280 mg cholesterol; 190 mg sodium; 1 g total carbohydrates; 11 g protein. (Family Features) l

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Teen SIMPLE,

Plant-Powered SUMMER MEALS

With more than half of Americans willing to eat more plants and less meat in 2020 (and beyond), according to a study conducted by Yale and Earth Day Network, one thing holds true: Even when food is better for you and the planet, families crave quality taste.

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alnuts are one of the original plant-based superfoods that can carry sweet or savory flavors to satisfy snackers, add hearty crunch to salads or breakfast dishes and serve as a simple, whole-food meat alternative. In addition to being a delicious plant-based staple, 1 ounce of walnuts contains important nutrients including 4 grams of protein, 2 grams of fiber and good fats with 2.5 grams of monounsaturated fat and 13 grams of polyunsaturated fat, including 2.5 grams of omega-3 alpha-linolenic acid (ALA).

Try walnuts as an alternative to meat in recipes like Walnut “Chorizo� Tacos or Sweet Potato Walnut Falafel Bowls, and find more plant-based recipes at walnuts.org/plant-based.

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Sweet Potato Walnut Falafel Bowls Falafel: 1 raw sweet potato (12 ounces), peeled and cut into chunks 1 cup cooked quinoa 1/2 cup California walnuts 1 teaspoon sea salt 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin 1/2 teaspoon onion powder 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1/2 cup flour 1 egg vegetable oil Tahini Dressing: 1/4 cup tahini 3 tablespoons lemon juice 2 tablespoons water 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder sea salt, to taste

Bowls: 4 cups loosely packed curly kale, coarsely chopped 2 cups cooked quinoa 1 cup julienned carrots 1 avocado, sliced toasted, chopped California walnuts, for garnish (optional) minced red onion, for garnish (optional) To make falafel: In food processor, pulse sweet potato until finely minced. Add quinoa, walnuts, ground cumin, onion powder and garlic powder; pulse until all pieces are uniform in size. Add flour and egg; pulse until well mixed, scraping down sides as needed. Using wet hands, shape mixture into 16 equal balls. In deep skillet or pot, heat oil. Cooking in batches, fry falafel balls 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Let drain on paper towel-lined tray. To make tahini dressing: In small bowl, whisk tahini, lemon juice, water, maple syrup, ground cumin, garlic powder and salt.

To prepare bowls: Place equal amounts kale, quinoa, carrots and avocado in four large salad bowls. Place four falafel balls in each bowl and drizzle with dressing. Garnish with toasted walnuts and minced red onion, if desired.

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Teen Walnut “Chorizo” Tacos

1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground coriander

Pickled Vegetables: 1/2 cup fresh lime juice 1 1/2 teaspoons sugar 3/4 teaspoon sea salt 8 radishes, thinly sliced 2 medium jalapeno peppers, thinly sliced 1 large clove garlic, thinly sliced

Tacos: 16 whole wheat tortillas olive oil thinly sliced romaine lettuce fresh cilantro leaves lime wedges

Walnut Chorizo Crumble: 1 1/2 cups black beans, rinsed and drained 2 cups California walnuts 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided 1 tablespoon white vinegar 1 tablespoon smoked paprika 1 tablespoon ancho chili powder 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon kosher or sea salt 1 teaspoon ground chipotle

To make pickled vegetables: In small bowl, stir lime juice, sugar and sea salt.

Stir in radishes, jalapenos and garlic slices; let stand 30 minutes to pickle. To make walnut “chorizo” crumble: In food processor, pulse beans and walnuts until coarsely chopped. Add 2 tablespoons oil, white vinegar, paprika, chili powder, oregano, salt, chipotle, cumin and coriander; pulse until mixture is finely chopped and resembles ground meat, stirring several times and

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moving mixture from bottom of food processor bowl to top to evenly mix. In large nonstick skillet over medium heat, heat remaining oil. Add “chorizo” mixture and cook 10 minutes, or until mixture is browned and resembles ground meat, stirring frequently.

To prepare tacos: Brush each tortilla lightly with oil. On skillet over mediumhigh heat, cook briefly to brown on both sides, keeping warm in foil until all tortillas are cooked.

Remove pickled vegetables from liquid and discard garlic slices. Fill each tortilla with equal amounts “chorizo” and pickled vegetables. Garnish with lettuce and cilantro; serve with lime wedges. (Family Features) l

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1-2-3 SIMPLE PLANT-BASED FOOD SWAPS TO EAT BETTER

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n fact, there are likely basic food staples already in your kitchen fridge that can be swapped out for plantbased foods that taste great, are better for you and the planet, and for which you don’t have to change your lifestyle.

Here are three non-dairy, plant-based food swaps to get you started.

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Plant-based spreads - eat better, not butter Dairy butter may be delicious, but it is full of saturated fats and has a huge impact on our environment. The good news is that today’s margarines are better than butter from dairy cows and there are plant-based, non-dairy spreads that are great substitutes for dairy butter.

Think of these like butters from another mother - Mother Earth. They contain no animal products and no trans fats.

After a decade of innovation - and a lot of taste testing with consumers -

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FEATURE

How hard can it be to eat better?

Go vegetarian or vegan? Give up deliciousness?

Eat more greens?

Purge the pantry?

Whether you’re considering plant-based diet options for health reasons, or to have a lighter footprint on our environment or “just because” you want to eat foods that don’t come from animals, it’s simple to make the swap in a few small steps that will have a big impact.

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Teen today’s dairy-free plant-based spreads are made with oils from nuts, fruits and plants. They spread, melt, cook and bake like dairy butter. The upside is that plant-based is lower in saturated fats and are lower in cholesterol than dairy products.

Plant-based spreads, like I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter!(R), contain no trans fats and no hydrogenated oils. I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter! is made with good fats from plant-based oils such as omega-3 ALA. Eating foods with good fats is part of a healthy diet. I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter! Original also carries the American Heart Association(R)’s Heart-Check mark.

The iconic Heart-Check mark helps take the guesswork out when reading Nutrition Facts and label information, giving consumers peace of mind that what they are consuming meets the nutritional requirements of the American Heart Association.*

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Today’s great-tasting and better-foryou-and-the-planet plant-based spreads are not your grandmother’s margarine or the high cholesterol, saturated fat dairy products of today.

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Vegan cheese - non-dairy tastiness of cheese

Cheese is one of the most common food garnishes used in the world.

Sprinkled on pizza, melted into lasagnas and grilled sandwiches, or sliced atop a cracker - the good news is that consumers can enjoy plant-based vegan cheeses without giving up their love of the delicious taste of dairy cheese.

The vegan cheese market is exploding as more consumers demand tasty plantbased options. Popular in vegan circles, plant-based cheese brand Violife is breaking into mainstream supermarkets with block, slices, grated and creamy

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products that look, smell, feel, taste and melt like dairy cheese. From grated mozzarella and sliced cheddar to cream cheeses and specialty cheeses like feta and parmesan, plant-based foodies can now enjoy the tasty goodness of plants with the bonus that they are 100% vegan - free of animal products, preservatives and GMO ingredients.

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Non-dairy milk - healthy choices from plants Non-dairy milks have long been the choice for those who are lactose intolerant. But that’s changed. Beyond being environmentally friendly to produce compared to milk from dairy cows, non-dairy milks also have health benefits, including no cholesterol and a healthy combination of mono- and polyunsaturated fats. They also don’t have the antibiotics, hormones or other additives of their dairy counterparts. These

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plant milks can generally be used in nearly every recipe where milk is needed, from baking chocolate chip cookies to your morning protein fruit smoothie. A few options include:

• 5-Minute Vegan Breakfast Smoothie • Oat Milk Pumpkin Pie with Oatmeal Cookie Crust • Dark Chocolate Tart Almond milk has high levels of monounsaturated fatty acids and may also help reduce chance of cardiovascular disease.

Oat milk is an option for those suffering from food allergies, plus it contains fiber that can help lower cholesterol.

Soy milk is cholesterol free and contains all the essential amino acids our bodies need.

Eat better with one plant-based food swap step at a time Eating better has never been easier for the healthconscious and environmentally sensitive eater. Still not convinced? Too hard?

Keep it simple. Swap in one plant-based food at a time - a splash of oat milk in that afternoon latte, a nibble of a plant

buttery chocolate chip cookie just out of the oven, or a grilled cheese sandwich made with vegan cheddar slices and pulled apart to start from the melt-y middle. Finding healthy plant-based foods has never been easier or tastier.

You’ll notice how deliciously simple it is to make the swap.

Heart-Check certification does not apply to other products or product information. (BPT) l

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Teen TEEN WITH RARE ILLNESS GETS WISH TO

CreateComicBook

H

e loves everything about comic books and drawing - but juvenile Huntington’s disease (jHD) has made it increasingly difficult for him to express his creativity the way he wants. There was a point he didn’t think he would ever see his comic book ideas become reality.

To help Bo create a comic book of his own, Make-A-Wish Oregon and sponsor Genentech partnered with Portland-based Dark Horse Comics, the third-largest comics publisher in the U.S. After working together with Bo on his ideas through many drafts and extensive creative collaboration, the team of artists and writers from Dark Horse Comics helped bring to life Bo’s creation, “The Adventures of Backpack Boy,” and grant his one true wish.

The celebration of Bo’s creative venture was also a team effort, bringing together Bo’s family and friends, Make-A-Wish volunteers, the creative team from Dark Horse Comics and a group of Genentech employees who all helped plan the special event.

Bo and his family were picked up in a limo to be taken to his book-signing event,

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where Dark Horse Comics presented Bo with special copies of the original art cells used in creating his comic book.

guests at the event, who came to admire his work and support his family. He even had his picture taken with many of them.

The party featured a spread of Bo’s favorite foods - including pizza, cheese puffs, cheese crackers, Skittles and M&M’s - for 75 guests. Every attendee received a signed copy of Bo’s comic book, and they could also write Bo messages of good will around a special framed copy of his comic book’s cover art. Bo was able to sit and chat with

“Bodean has a difficult time communicating and showing emotion,” said Bo’s mother, Cara Jacobsen. “It was very sweet to see him make a big effort to tell people about his comic book, and his face lights up. There are so many people very excited for Bo, who love asking him about the progress of his comic. The process is such

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

Teenagers love to read comic books, and many even have the desire to write stories, draw comics and create their own books someday.

Nineteen-year-old Bo is one of those teens.

a positive aspect of his life right now and helps him connect to people who care about him and reach out to him.”

to think, behave and move. Juvenile Huntington’s disease is a less common, early onset form of Huntington’s disease.

Unfortunately, Bo’s father passed away from Huntington’s disease a couple of years ago, and Bo has both a younger brother and older sister who are also living with the disease. Huntington’s disease is a hereditary, progressive neurodegenerative disorder that makes it increasingly difficult for a person

There is no cure today, but there are disease management strategies that can help provide some symptom relief. Biotechnology corporation Genentech is currently investigating a number of approaches to help people with rare diseases. Support from corporate partners such as Genentech is crucial to making wishes come

true for children like Bo. “Make-A-Wish could not grant wishes without the generous support of our partners. Working together to positively impact wish kids and their families through the science of good has created a strong win-win partnership,” said Laila Cook, CEO of Make-AWish Oregon.

Learn more about how you can help grant the wishes of children with critical illnesses at wish.org. (BPT) l

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Teen WHAT TO CONSIDER BEFORE BUYING A

T

UsedCar

he survey from Ally Financial and conducted online by The Harris Poll found that 69% percent of Americans would be likely to consider a used vehicle for their next auto purchase.

The survey also found that the source of the used vehicle matters to consumers, with 53% of respondents saying they would feel most comfortable buying used at a dealership that sells both new and used vehicles. This was much higher than any other category, including purchasing the car from another individual (12%), a used-vehicle-only dealership (10%) and from an internetbased company (8%).

“While there’s a lot of hype around internet auto sales within the industry, the majority of consumers are most comfortable purchasing at a franchise dealer that’s part of the community and where they can ask questions,” says Matthew Arnold, senior regional vice president of Auto Finance at Ally Financial.

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Those who currently own used cars largely cite value as the reason for their purchase, with 61% saying they opted for a used car because it was less expensive than a new vehicle, and 34% saying they were able to get more car for their money.

“With new vehicle prices approaching $38,000, it’s a good time to have a refreshed look at used vehicles,” Arnold says. “Vehicle quality from the factory has greatly improved in recent years and that is carrying over to the used vehicle market. Yet, there are still several common sense steps consumers should take before purchasing.”

Arnold recommends the following steps when researching used vehicles:

• Get a vehicle history report.

The minimal cost is worth the investment, and some car dealers will provide it for free upon request.

•

Consider buying certified pre-owned (CPO). CPO vehicles

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are backed by the manufacturer and are a good option for used car buyers concerned about reliability.

• Give yourself peace

of mind. Vehicle service contracts can help cover unexpected repairs and replacements parts.

• Do your homework.

Go online and check independent sources on vehicle reliability and dealership reviews. You can also check the local market value for a specific model based on its mileage and condition. To get savvy about car buying and ownership in general, visit Ally.com/do-it-right/car.

While a used vehicle can be a good idea for a lot of shoppers, it may require a bit of extra research, particularly if you are harboring any concerns about the vehicle’s reliability. However, experts say that taking a few smart steps can offer you peace of mind and a better deal.

(StatePoint) l

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LIFESTYLE When it comes to their next set of wheels, the majority of Americans would consider buying used despite harboring concerns about reliability and necessary repairs, suggests a new survey.

kPHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF (C) STANDRET / ISTOCK VIA GETTY IMAGES PLUS.

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Teen If you’re like many people, you feel good when you are able to toss items into the recycling bin instead of the trash. But a new report suggests that many of those “recyclable” labels on your products may be misleading, and that much of what you believe will be processed and used again is actually sent to a landfill or incinerator.

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LIFESTYLE

ARE YOUR

‘Recyclable’

PRODUCTS ACTUALLY RECYCLABLE?

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he survey, conducted by Greenpeace, is based on conditions from October 2019 to January 2020, however, experts warn that the economics of collecting, sorting and reprocessing plastic products is likely to only worsen in the coming years. Part of the problem is that due to global trade factors limiting the amount of plastic materials China imports from the U.S., America’s municipal recycling collection systems have been significantly impacted and are recycling far less materials than they once did. The other problem?

A lack of truth in advertising.

The full report, available at greenpeace. org/usa/plastic_recycling revealed that despite labels stating otherwise, many recycling facilities only accept two types of post-consumer plastic items -- PET #1 and HDPE #2 bottles and jugs, while plastics #3-7 are rarely recycled even if they are accepted in recycling programs due to their low value and the lack of a market for those materials. Additionally, many

full body shrink sleeves that are added to PET #1 and HDPE #2 bottles and jugs make those products non-recyclable as well. Unfortunately, when items end up at a facility that cannot process them, they can contaminate otherwise recyclable batches of materials.

correct their labels, Greenpeace experts say the real solution is for companies to get serious about reducing plastic use, and for the public to do their part by urging consumer goods companies and retailers to end their reliance on singleuse plastics.

“Retailers and consumer goods companies across the country are misleading the public and harming America’s recycling systems in the process,” says John Hocevar, Greenpeace USA oceans campaign director.

“Instead of getting serious about moving away from single-use plastic, corporations are hiding behind the pretense that their throwaway packaging is recyclable. The jig is up,” says Hocevar.

“It’s time to stop pretending that the trillions of throwaway plastic items produced each year will be recycled or composted and to stop producing so many of them in the first place by investing in reusable, refillable, and package-free approaches.” (StatePoint) l

According to Hocevar, accurate recyclable claims and labels serve three valuable functions: truthful advertising to consumers, prevention of harmful contamination in America’s recycling system, and identification of products for elimination or redesign to reduce waste and plastic pollution.

While plans to increase the pressure are underway for companies that don’t

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LITTLENY / ISTOCK VIA GETTY IMAGES PLUS.

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Let Quality and Sustainability Become Your Biggest Luxury with

ACYYOM

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kPHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF KACYYOM.

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Your stylish accessories should speak to your values.

When it comes to designer handbags, don’t let the fine Italian leather and classic design fool you. KACYYOM is rooted in socially responsible practices from start to finish, partnering with an Italian tannery holding five different certifications promoting environmental, ethical, and sustainable practices.

Tannery craftsmanship includes: • Using water-based finishing processes to reduce the emissions of carbon dioxide • Using solutions aimed at minimizing the impact that hides treatment has on the environment • Reducing environmental impact during the production phase as well as in the recycling and disposal phases For more information visit www.kacyyom.com.

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3 A

EXPERT PAY NEGOTIATION

Tipsfor

Women

recent Randstad US survey found that 60 percent of women have never negotiated their pay. Additionally, roughly half of the women surveyed (51 percent) also said they’re more likely to leave a job because they’re underpaid, rather than ask their manager for a raise.

Asking for more money can be stressful, particularly for women. Research has shown that women have a tendency to both underestimate their value and avoid assertiveness (an essential skill for negotiating). These factors make negotiating more difficult, but no less important -- which is why you should be extra prepared. According to the experts at Randstad US, here’s how:

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1. Know your value. Seventy-

four percent of millennials expect a pay raise every year in order to stay at their companies, versus 62 percent of boomers and 66 percent of all workers.

It appears younger generations know their value and aren’t shy about asking for fair compensation when it counts most -- during salary negotiations.

Do the same! Take inventory of your achievements, new skills and contributions that demonstrate your value, and be prepared to showcase those once negotiations start.

2. Know your market. Sixty percent of all workers surveyed wish their employers would publish salary or pay ranges for what each role earns

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MONEY

As advocates continue to put gender equity under a microscope and some progress has been made, there’s still a long way to go. The income gap between men and women has yet to be closed, and while employers have a huge role to play in creating a level playing field, many women could advocate for themselves more effectively during salary negotiations. across the company. Even if your company doesn’t do this, you’ll still want to familiarize yourself with the going pay rates in your industry. There are plenty of resources online (including Randstad’s comprehensive salary guide) to help with your research.

3. Know when to speak up. Be

meet its business goals, it’s probably best to wait to ask for a raise. Instead, use this time to ask your manager for feedback: What are you doing well? How would they like to see you improve? Show your manager that you want to do your job better, and then go make it happen. Then, revisit that pay conversation a few months later.

proactive. If you didn’t receive a raise in your last performance review or if you don’t have formal performance reviews, consider scheduling a meeting with your supervisor to talk about your performance and compensation.

Of course, if the company has been cutting budgets or is struggling to

Ultimately, the best thing you can do is advocate for yourself. For your employer, it’s all about the return on investment, and if you can make a solid case, most employers are willing to negotiate rather than lose you to one of their competitors.

(StatePoint) l

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MONEY

2020 IS A YEAR FOR SAVINGS 8 IN 10 PEOPLE

PlantoSaveMore

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avings is key to financial health and Chase Financial Education Ambassador Farnoosh Torabi has tips and advice on how to get started and make savings a habit. (watch video)

According to Torabi, increasing savings is key to stability and gives people the ability to quickly recover when there are ups and downs.

Chase is focused on helping encourage the habit of savings and support people by providing information and resources that can help customers on their savings journey. Take a first step by understanding your expenses and building a budget.

Budget Builder is a great tool from Chase to help you monitor your monthly spending and saving.

Once you have this baseline, the key to reaching your goals is to just start saving, even if you’re starting small. “My advice is to automate,” says Torabi. “There is a great feature through the Chase App called Autosave which allows you to decide on your own how much you want to save and how frequently you want to save, so you can feel in control of this. The good news is the technology does the savings for you.” With this feature, you can save as little as $1 a day.

While consistency is key, savings is about what works for you. In a month when you have extra cash, you can always accelerate your savings, but in a tighter month, it’s all right to take a pause or draw from your savings to cover an unexpected expense.

Most Americans don’t have $400 saved to cover for an unexpected emergency, but a recent poll from Chase found that consumers may be ready to change that this year.

80 percent plan to save more and 51 percent say emergency savings is their goal.

Check out www.chase.com/autosave for more information and tips on how to make savings work for you. (NewsUSA) l

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