Teen WWW.INFLUENTIAL-MAGAZINE.COM MARCH / APRIL 2021
MAKE A STATEMENT: 3 COMFORTABLE YET STYLISH SHOE TRENDS TO TRY IN 2021 How One Company Lifts the Burden of College Debt TOP CHEFS FIND INSPIRATION CLOSE TO HOME
A Brunch Spread Fit for Spring FROM AMORE TO L’AMOUR:
DISCOVER YOUR LANGUAGE OF LOVE
Hello
Sunshine
Teen
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Education
14 | Ace the Spring Semester With
the Following Tools and Strategies 16 | How One Company Lifts the Burden of College Debt 18 | The Digital Learning Tools Making Remote-Learning Easier on Everyone 20 | Top Tips for College Entrance Exam Success
Fashion & Style
22 | Make a Statement:
3 Comfortable Yet Stylish Shoe Trends to Try in 2021 24 | Aranyani Debuts Spring and Summer 2021 ‘Fluidity Collection’
[
FASHION EDITORIAL 28 | FLOWERS
]
Food & Beverage
46 | 10 Tips to Recognize Ripe Fruits 48 | Slurping on Sunshine 54 | A Seasonal Spring Surprise 60 | Serve a Sweet Treat
Health & Wellness
66 | A Free Way to Save Money on Prescriptions and Help Kids with Critical Illnesses 68 | Getting More Movement Throughout the Day
Lifestyle
70 | From Amore to L’Amour: Discover Your Language of Love 72 | Birds Attacking Your Windows? Here’s How to Stop It
feature
08 | The “Big 7”:
Top Animals to Spot in Uganda 42 | Reinventing the Rebate: Incentivizing Today’s Mobile, Digitally Savvy Consumer 50 | A Brunch Spread Fit for Spring 56 | Top Chefs Find Inspiration Close to Home 62 | Exploring the Patient-Caregiver Relationship: The Story of a Family’s Journey Navigating a Cancer Diagnosis 2
TEEN
FLUENTIAL MARCH / APRIL 2021
Teen FOUNDER / CHIEF BUSINESS OFFICER EDITOR-IN-CHIEF William Jackson, ABA, B.Acy., MBA Round Rock, Texas ART & PRODUCTION Creative Services What Taller Gráfico Argenis Gudino Jose Luis Venegas Quintero Contributing Photographer Aranyani 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.
influential-magazine.com
EDITORIAL CREDITS
For Letters to the Editor please email Nicole Glenn: Nicole@influential-magazine.com. For Advertising inquiries please email: ads@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: Teen InFluential, P.O. Box 1811, 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.
MARCH / APRIL 2021 TEEN
FLUENTIAL
5
6
TEEN
FLUENTIAL MARCH / APRIL 2021
A NOTE FROM WILLIAM JACKSON We’re fortunate to have such amazing influencers in Austin and across the world. For the InFluential Magazine family it’s been an honor to share stories of many outstanding people and innovations. Nearly ten years ago when the concept of InFluential Magazine was brought to life, we had no idea how rewarding it’d be to get a closer look at many of society’s most influential people and captivating topics. I’ve the privilege of leading an outstanding international team who works incessantly to capture inspiring and relevant stories and bring these to life through the pages of our multi award-winning magazines. The focus of InFluential Magazine, Spanish InFluential, and Teen InFluential remains constant which is to publish information on lifestyle trends sure to impact the way our readers live, dream, and distinguish their world. When necessary, we anticipate change and adapt to become more relevant, insightful, and inspiring. We hope you continue to draw inspiration from what you see in our magazines and we’re thrilled to continue showing up prominently in your favorite technology influenced places to read. The captivating design of our magazines will always be something we deliver to you with quality, integrity, and tremendous pride. From our stories, special features, to our everexpanding digital presence, we’ll continue to embrace and engage with our international communities. Savor the articles in our pages. I hope you’ll find them captivating and inspiring! Enjoy the coming of spring, a perfect time for rejuvenation of mind, body, and soul. Fondly,
William Jackson, ABA, B.Acy., MBA Founder, Chief Business Officer, and Publisher of InFluential Magazine, Spanish InFluential, and Teen InFluential
MARCH / APRIL 2021 TEEN
FLUENTIAL
7
Teen
8
TEEN
FLUENTIAL MARCH / APRIL 2021
influential-magazine.com
FEATURE Do you dream of seeing majestic wild animals in their natural habitat? If viewing the world’s most impressive wildlife is on your bucket list, a safari is the way to do it. You may have even heard of the “Big 5”: lions, leopards, elephants, rhino, and buffalo.
W
THE “BIG 7”: TOP ANIMALS TO SPOT IN
UGANDA
hile many African safari destinations are home to the “Big 5,” Uganda is one of few countries in the world where you can also encounter both chimpanzees and endangered mountain gorillas - rounding out the list to the “Big 7.” These animals comprise the ultimate wildlife bucket list, making Uganda the destination of a lifetime. In Uganda, you can be awed by all these spectacular animals. Travelers interested in these species can prepare for their trip by brushing up on the proper term for each animal.
1. A Pride of Lions
Uganda’s Queen Elizabeth National Park is one of the few places in the world where you can observe tree-climbing lions. Trees allow lions to escape both pesky
MARCH / APRIL 2021 TEEN
FLUENTIAL
9
Teen
flies and the heat on the ground. The Uganda Carnivore Program provides guided lion-tracking, plus nocturnal tours with a local researcher.
2. A Leap of Leopards
The best Ugandan national parks for spotting (no pun intended) the elusive leopard include Kidepo Valley National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park and Lake Mburo National Park. Because of their reclusive nature and the spotted coats
10 TEEN
FLUENTIAL MARCH / APRIL 2021
that allow them to blend in with their surroundings, it’s a special gift to have the chance to see a leopard in the wild.
3. A Parade of Elephants
African elephants can be found in national parks throughout Uganda, with the largest populations in Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls National Park and Kidepo Valley National Park. With a Nile River safari, travelers take a boat ride to the base of Murchison Falls to see elephants right at the water’s
influential-magazine.com
FEATURE
edge. With just bird calls as background noise, witnessing these creatures up close is an incredible experience.
4. A Crash of Rhino
The only place in Uganda to spot the white rhinoceros is at the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary rhinoceros re-introduction project, run by the Rhino Fund Uganda and the Uganda Wildlife Authority. Two white rhino calves were born this past August, bringing the total number of white rhinoceros at the sanctuary to 32.
MARCH / APRIL 2021 TEEN
FLUENTIAL
11
Teen climb high up in the trees. Some of the best locales to spot chimps in Uganda include Budongo Forest near Murchison Falls National Park, Kibale National Park and Kalinzu Forest in Queen Elizabeth National Park. Travelers can also visit Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary on Lake Victoria, which offers half and full day tours.
7
. A Troop of Mountain Gorillas
White rhinos are the most social of all the rhinoceros species and can always be seen grazing together.
5. A Gang of Buffalo
African buffalo are the only one of the “Big 7” species that aren’t endangered, threatened or vulnerable. They can be found throughout many of Uganda’s national parks. Travelers can witness the strength of the buffalo as they exhibit profound moments of courage when threatened, or when defending members of their gang. Standoffs between lions and buffalo can last for hours.
6
. A Community of Chimpanzees Compared to mountain gorillas, chimpanzees are loud and wild. Hikers will hear them before they see them, as they swing and
12
TEEN
FLUENTIAL MARCH / APRIL 2021
Over half of the world’s endangered mountain gorillas can be found in Uganda where travelers can visit Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. With a recent baby boom, mountain gorilla babies are winning the hearts of travelers and attracting the clicks of cameras. Eight gorilla babies have been born in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park since January 2020, compared to three in all of 2019 - with five of them born over just six weeks. Once travelers find gorillas during their trekking experience, they can enjoy one hour with them, at a distance. COVID-19 protocols for gorilla trekking mandates that travelers must wear masks and must remain a minimum of 32 feet away from the species, to protect their health. Uganda’s 10 national parks provide once-in-a-lifetime opportunities to see the spectacular “Big 7”, along with giraffe, zebra, hippo, and crocodiles plus over half the bird species found in Africa. To learn more, check out Visit Uganda.com. (BPT) l
influential-magazine.com
FEATURE
MARCH / APRIL 2021 TEEN
FLUENTIAL
13
Teen ACE THE
SpringSemester
WITH THE FOLLOWING TOOLS AND STRATEGIES
Maintaining a passion for school can be tough during the spring semester, particularly during an unusual academic year. Here is a round-up of tools and strategies to help motivate students and facilitate their success:
Outside counsel: Now is a great time Advance calculations: To solve the for students to meet with their academic advisor or counselor. Doing so can expand a student’s knowledge of current and future opportunities and serve as a temperature check on their progress toward degree completion. Plus, talking to someone invested in one’s success can provide the push needed to keep up the good work.
kPHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF (C) KZENON / ISTOCK VIA GETTY IMAGES.
14
TEEN
FLUENTIAL MARCH / APRIL 2021
most challenging equations and embrace the actual theory of mathematical concepts, it’s important to be equipped with an easy-to-use graphing calculator possessing all the latest functions. Boasting an advanced Computer Algebra System (CAS), Casio’s fx-CG500 is good example of a reasonablypriced next-generation graphing calculator helping students enrolled in advanced math and science courses. Clear visuals are especially important for distance-learning, and this model’s high-resolution, color, touchscreen LCD conveys a Natural Textbook display. Drag-and-drop functionality enables students to pull information quickly and intuitively from one representation into another. Meanwhile, split-screen functionality allows simultaneous viewing of functions and graphs.
influential-magazine.com
EDUCATION
Mobile hotspot: A mobile hotspot
Eliminate a common headache:
can be a lifesaver, making remotelearners impervious to internet outages or bandwidth demands from other household members or roommates, helping ensure that they never miss a lesson or pop quiz.
Students writing term papers can easily get bogged down in the tiring logistics of creating a bibliography. And while this task is necessary, it’s unlikely to further a student’s knowledge of a subject. Fortunately, there are apps available that automatically create bibliography entries in the style of a student’s needs when they scan a book’s barcode. Simplifying this task will free up much needed time and energy for students to research and write their papers.
With the right tools and mindset, every student can have a strong spring semester. (StatePoint) l
MARCH / APRIL 2021 TEEN
FLUENTIAL
15
Teen Higher education has become synonymous with debt. The Federal Reserve reported more than $1.7 trillion in outstanding student loans as of Q4 2020 while nearly $120 billion in student loans were in default, according to Statista.
16
TEEN
FLUENTIAL MARCH / APRIL 2021
influential-magazine.com
EDUCATION
HOW ONE COMPANY LIFTS THE BURDEN OF W
hether you’re fresh out of high school or returning as an adult student, nobody wants to graduate owing more than they can afford to repay - and run the risk of becoming yet another cautionary tale.
Instead, you’re forced to make sacrifices to make college happen. You opt for a less expensive school that offers you the best possible financial aid package, even though it might not be your top choice. You may eventually abandon your dream career in favor of a more lucrative course of study. Maybe you even decide college isn’t worth it. Don’t give up just yet. There’s a program that can give you the freedom to invest in yourself.
Help with Repaying Student Loans To help students and their parents overcome both the fear and burden of student loan debt, Ardeo Education Solutions has collaborated with over 200 colleges and universities nationwide to offer students the protection of its Loan Repayment Assistance Program (LRAP), at no cost to the student. LRAP awards can help you and your family repay your student loans after graduation. LRAPs have been providing a financial safety net to students for more than 30 years, with over 20,000 students covered by Ardeo’s program. The program makes college possible for students across the country and helps the schools offering it improve access to education on their campus.
CollegeDebt “LRAP awards provide students with peace of mind by reassuring them that debt won’t hold them back after graduation,” said Josh David, Vice President of Student Service, Ardeo Education Solutions. “Our financial safety net is especially impactful for students who pursue service-oriented careers, such as working for a nonprofit, which positively impact society but don’t typically provide a large paycheck.”
How LRAPs Work A growing number of colleges and universities nationwide are using LRAPs to reinforce their commitment to improve access to higher education, student success and graduate outcomes. By committing their own resources, these colleges and universities are putting their own “skin in the game” to ensure their students have successful outcomes. LRAPs cover federal student, private alternative and parent PLUS loans. Students must graduate with a bachelor’s degree from the school where they received their LRAP Award. If your income is modest - typically less than $45,000-$50,000 - an LRAP will help you and your family repay your loans
until your income exceeds the threshold or the loans are paid off entirely.
LRAPs Provide 3 Primary Benefits to Students:
•
School choice: Students can attend their preferred college or university because they are able to focus less on cost and more on the value of their education. Graduation rate: Students covered by an LRAP may be more likely to graduate, because they know they’ll have help repaying loans once they do. Career path: Thanks to having an LRAP, students feel empowered to follow their dreams. With an LRAP to help when they graduate, they can follow their passions rather than a paycheck.
• •
Assistance for Parents For parents who take out parent PLUS loans or for co-signers of student loans, an LRAP will help repay those loans based solely on the graduate’s income, not yours. Want to learn more? Talk to your admissions office or financial aid counselor to find out if an LRAP is an option for you. (BPT) l
MARCH / APRIL 2021 TEEN
FLUENTIAL
17
Teen THE
DigitalLearningTools MAKING REMOTE-LEARNING EASIER ON EVERYONE
The past year has demonstrated the importance of digital learning. And thanks to a variety of tools and resources that helped make remote instruction a little less stressful on everyone, teachers, students and parents quickly adapted to the changes brought on by the pandemic.
Music
Mathematics
Music has been a particularly difficult subject to provide instruction for at a distance. However, educational foundations have risen to the occasion by creating a trove of resources to aid learning. For example, the Save the Music Foundation provides free activities for families, tools for educators to create their own online tutorials and more.
Remote learning has only added new challenges to an already difficult subject. The good news is that online tools are helping fill the gaps created by the new normal. Check out the Casio Cares education site, which is chock full of free math resources for students, parents and educators. Tools include emulator calculator software, curriculum support materials, live webinars and remotely-delivered teacher training. Plus, Casio’s free all-in-one webbased mathematics software, ClassPad. net, which is geared for K-12 and beyond, delivers an accessible, interactive and personalized approach to mathematics.
kPHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF (C) INSTA_PHOTOS / ISTOCK VIA GETTY IMAGES PLUS. 18
TEEN
FLUENTIAL MARCH / APRIL 2021
influential-magazine.com
EDUCATION
Its functions include graphing, geometry, calculation, statistics and more. In addition to online activities and video tutorials, Casio also offers a weekly educational webinar series focused on mathematics on its YouTube channel, covering such subjects as elementary and middle school math, algebra I and II, geometry, pre-calculus, calculus and statistics. All webinars are recorded and can be accessed any time.
is Storybird, which features hundreds of courses and challenges. If your child’s teachers haven’t caught onto the trend, no worries, parents can also sign up for an account for their children.
Creative Writing English and creative writing teachers are turning to new platforms to help build their student’s writing skills in a variety of creative genres. One example
Even after classrooms reopen nationwide, one thing is certain, with so many amazing resources available to help educators teach and students learn, digital learning tools are here to stay. (StatePoint) l
MARCH / APRIL 2021 TEEN
FLUENTIAL
19
Teen TOP TIPS FOR
CollegeEntrance
College entrance exams remain important, even in these unusual times. Fortunately, there are many ways you can help ensure you’re ready for test day. Here are a few tips to consider:
k PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF
(C) MARCOS HOMEM / ISTOCK VIA GETTY IMAGES PLUS.
20 TEEN
FLUENTIAL MARCH / APRIL 2021
influential-magazine.com
EDUCATION
ExamSuccess • Know the test format
• Find study buddies
Be sure you understand the basic format of the test and the types of questions that will be included so you don’t waste precious time on test day managing surprises. By using an up-to-date study guide, you won’t encounter any curve balls.
You don’t need to feel alone during test preparations. Remember, your friends are going through the same thing as you. Consider getting some pals together for a series of remote study sessions. Your group can work together to address lingering questions and concerns, share test-taking strategies and more. You may also want to consider signing up for a virtual test prep courses or getting paired with a remote tutor.
•
Get comfortable with your calculator During your preparations and practice tests, be sure to use the same calculator you’ll be bringing with you on test day. Getting familiarized with the tool’s full functionality will help you be speedy and accurate when it matters most. When the clock is ticking, it’s best to be holding a calculator with an easy-to-use interface, intuitive icon-based menu and natural textbook display, such as the scientific and graphic calculators available from Casio. To ace the science and math portions of the test, your pre-test preparations can also include checking out the webinars and resources available on the Casio education site: casioeducation.com.
• Read as much as possible While memorizing vocabulary lists is one strategy for pulling out all the stops on the humanities portions of the test, the best way to adopt good grammar, boost reading comprehension and hone writing skills is to be an avid reader. This is especially effective if you select a range of reading materials, including fiction, biographies, journalism and more. While a lot has changed about education this past year, much about college entrance exams has stayed the same, and you can still get a leg up by ensuring you’re well-equipped and ready to succeed on test day. (StatePoint) l
MARCH / APRIL 2021 TEEN
FLUENTIAL
21
Teen MAKE A STATEMENT:
3 ComfortableYet StylishShoe
22 TEEN
FLUENTIAL MARCH / APRIL 2021
influential-magazine.com
FASHION & STYLE While comfort will continue to reign supreme for clothing and accessories in 2021, when it comes to footwear, there are a variety of fun fashion trends that make a statement. The good news is that there’s no need to overhaul your entire closet. And it’s easier than ever to incorporate on-trend pieces into a comfortable and casual outfit.
TRENDS TO TRY IN 2021
A
clogs, and casual shoes with animal print accents serve as a neutral accessory that can be mixed and paired with any item in the closet. Nike’s Court Vision Low Sneaker puts a fun twist on cheetah print accents, while the adidas Puremotion Adapt is a stylish slip-on sneaker with a crisscross leopard print pattern.
Metallic Accents: Athletic shoes
ccording to Alyson Stanley, buyer for national retailer Rack Room Shoes, simple clothing choices paired with shoes featuring leopard print detailing, pops of pastel, or silver accents make getting dressed easy and fun. Whether walking around the neighborhood, enjoying a sociallydistanced event, or leading a Zoom meeting, here are some tips on how to stay cozy and on-trend this year.
featuring a hint of shine or iridescent details provide a versatile option for those getting their steps in or committing to fitness goals. Because metallics such as rose gold, silver, and gold can mesh with a broad range of color palettes and design styles, they are “the new neutral.” For those on-the-go, athletic shoes such as the Nike Swift 2 and the Nike Court Vision are selections that offer a touch of silver, gold, or platinum detailing.
Animal Prints: In the past, mixing
Joyful Pastels and Playful Patterns: This season’s footwear fea-
patterns was taboo, but according to Stanley, it’s now encouraged. Sneakers,
tures a palette of cotton candy-inspired
shades (think lavender, mint green, and bubblegum pink). The possibilities to incorporate these colors into this season’s outfits are limitless. While you may know Crocs’ classic clogs are surprisingly comfortable and functional, you may not be aware that they now come in many pastel-colored options such as mint, lilac, and a pattern featuring a baby blue shade swirled with cloud forms. For all your family’s footwear needs, visit rackroomshoes.com for online shopping or curbside pickup options.
“Though many of us are still spending the majority of the day working, exercising, and taking classes online from home, clothing and accessories still afford us the opportunity to express our unique style,” says Stanley. “The patterns and color trends for shoes in 2021 can bring joy to everyday outfits for the entire family.” (StatePoint) l
Try on-trend looks like the Nike Court Vision in metallic accents and fun colors.
MARCH / APRIL 2021 TEEN
FLUENTIAL 23
Teen
Aranyani
Debuts Spring and Summer 2021
‘Fluidity Collection’ Aranyani, the luxury Indian handbag brand, is debuting its new SS2021 Fluidity collection this week. Inspired by continuous allowance, ‘Fluidity’ is a balance between being in the state of tranquility, and the state of creativity.
kPHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF ARANYANI.
24 TEEN
FLUENTIAL MARCH / APRIL 2021
influential-magazine.com
FASHION & STYLE
MARCH / APRIL 2021 TEEN
FLUENTIAL 25
Teen
A
ranyani depicts this balance through two vibrant new colors which are featured in this collection. The blue hue reflects the tranquil or meditative state, while the orange reflects the living creativity that surrounds us all. 2020 presented everyone with unforeseen challenges on a global scale. While there was loss and heartache, there was also the opportunity for reflection, reinvention and ultimately for renewal. Aranyani founder and creative director, Haresh Mirpuri, was inspired by the paradoxical experiences that we all experienced over the last year, when creating Aranyani’s new collection. “Fluidity is by definition a dichotomy. It can mean to flow easily or the state of being unsettled. We have experienced both throughout the last year. This is why fluidity was the inspiration for the collection. Through the imposed tranquility of quarantine, being unsettled in our daily routine, and subtle bursts of inspiration and creativity, we have all been brought together,” says Haresh of the collection. In addition to Aranyani’s existing collections, the Kesuda, named for the exotic flower, and the Stone Drops, named for the semi-precious stones that are used in detailing, Fluidity will introduce the Fragrant Trails Collection. This collection combines ancient gold leafing techniques to kHARESH MIRPURI create a motif that is inspired by one of the most well-known flowers in India, often used for worship. The gold leaf painting is an ancient Indian craft that has been introduced as an art in luxury leather bags for the first time, and has been mastered by Aranyani’s craftsmen and women in their atelier. India’s natural beauty is handcrafted into each Aranyani bag. “Artistry and craftsmanship provide a foundation for all we do. The beauty of India is the inspiration for all Aranyani bags. Using stones, embroidery or hand painting, our artists imbue each bag with its own exquisite piece of India,” says Haresh. The Fluidity Story is available for purchase at www.aranyani.com. l
26 TEEN
FLUENTIAL MARCH / APRIL 2021
influential-magazine.com
Aranyani
FASHION & STYLE
Debuts Spring and Summer 2021
‘Fluidity Collection’
MARCH / APRIL 2021 TEEN
FLUENTIAL 27
Teen
F
Flowers
F lowers
F
lowers
28 TEEN
FLUENTIAL MARCH / APRIL 2021
lowers
influential-magazine.com
FASHION EDITORIAL kCURATED BY WILLIAM JACKSON, ABA, B.ACY., MBA AND FOUNDER, CHIEF BUSINESS OFFICER, AND PUBLISHER OF INFLUENTIAL MAGAZINE, SPANISH INFLUENTIAL, AND TEEN INFLUENTIAL
MARCH / APRIL 2021 TEEN
FLUENTIAL 29
Teen
30 TEEN
FLUENTIAL MARCH / APRIL 2021
influential-magazine.com
FASHION EDITORIAL
MARCH / APRIL 2021 TEEN
FLUENTIAL
31
Teen
32 TEEN
FLUENTIAL MARCH / APRIL 2021
influential-magazine.com
FASHION EDITORIAL
MARCH / APRIL 2021 TEEN
FLUENTIAL 33
Teen
34 TEEN
FLUENTIAL MARCH / APRIL 2021
influential-magazine.com
FASHION EDITORIAL
MARCH / APRIL 2021 TEEN
FLUENTIAL 35
Teen
36 TEEN
FLUENTIAL MARCH / APRIL 2021
influential-magazine.com
FASHION EDITORIAL
MARCH / APRIL 2021 TEEN
FLUENTIAL 37
Teen
Flowers
l o wers F Flowers lowers
F
38 TEEN
FLUENTIAL MARCH / APRIL 2021
influential-magazine.com
FASHION EDITORIAL
MARCH / APRIL 2021 TEEN
FLUENTIAL 39
Teen
42 TEEN
FLUENTIAL MARCH / APRIL 2021
influential-magazine.com
FEATURE
REINVENTING THE REBATE:
INCENTIVIZING
TODAY’S MOBILE, DIGITALLY SAVVY CONSUMER The next big thing in the quest for customer loyalty isn’t new, and it isn’t fancy. But it does not come in the mail. The traditional rebate is being replaced by digital or virtual rebates - which are an effective way for companies to attract consumers, enhance the customer experience and build brand loyalty.
MARCH / APRIL 2021 TEEN
FLUENTIAL 43
Teen
The evolution of the rebate Ranging in value from a few dollars to several thousand dollars, rebates have been offered by a wide variety of manufacturers in recent years.
A
recent Consumer Incentives survey by North Lane found that over 91% of consumers were open to using virtual rebates, and 79% would choose a digital rebate over a traditional mail-in rebate. Virtual rebates were perceived as easier to use, and 41% preferred them because they are greener than mail-in rebates. Approximately 84% of respondents said the option to receive a digital rebate improved their opinion of a brand. And it’s no wonder consumers prefer the digital option - shoppers aged 18 to 44 said their top frustrations with traditional rebates were the long wait time to receive rebates and the complicated steps to redeem them. In contrast, virtual rebates are faster and simpler.
According to Inc.com, they evolved in some degree from the discount coupon. But instead of offering savings with a reduced price at point-of-sale, rebates require shoppers to complete additional steps to get cash back. These include completing a form, providing proof of purchase such as a receipt, and then mailing these items by an expiration date to receive the rebate check in the mail - eventually. While rebates entice shoppers to buy a particular product with the hope of getting cash back, many shoppers actually fail to complete the process. As a sales tactic to drive primary purchases, rebates often succeed. The North Lane survey found that 60% of respondents had switched from a favorite brand because a different brand offered a rebate. But in some cases, companies that miscalculate consumer interest or follow-through on rebates can end up losing revenue or miss out on
opportunities to cement brand loyalty and drive secondary purchases. This is especially true if, from the customer’s vantage point, the rebate process does not seem worth the trouble. And after a negative rebate experience, over half (53%) of customers would not or would be unlikely to shop with that brand again. These days, virtual rebates fix most or all of the pain points that prompt consumers to label a rebate experience as negative. So, they’re a win for both brands and their customers.
The digital revolution In today’s marketplace, expectations for smoother, digitally enabled experiences have grown. Consumers have not only gone digital for tasks like shopping and banking, but they also expect seamless experiences at all brand touchpoints. Virtual rebates eliminate frictions like delivery issues, long waits for payment and difficulty spending the rebate. Today’s virtual rebates are digital openloop cards received by email, SMS or in app. They can be spent online, via mobile or in person using the customer’s mobile wallet, offering unparalleled choice. ILLUSTRATIONS COURTESY OF WWW.FREEPIK.ES
44 TEEN
FLUENTIAL MARCH / APRIL 2021
influential-magazine.com
FEATURE Much easier to manage than traditional mail-in rebates, digital rebates are viewed more like cash equivalents. Read: higher value. They also drive both primary purchases and spendback. In fact, 90% of the survey respondents said they were likely or somewhat likely to spend their virtual rebate with the same brand they got it from.
A growing opportunity Delivering a frictionless rebate experience helps boost brand loyalty and advocacy among consumers both valuable commodities in today’s influencer-driven market. Despite the report’s findings that consumers are overwhelmingly interested in digital
rebates, only 27% reported having received an offer for one. This suggests that many businesses are not yet on the virtual rebate bandwagon. By expanding their rebate offerings to accommodate the preference for virtual, brands could see larger gains from their incentive programs. Offering digital rebates to consumers also allows businesses to learn more about the customer journey. Using data from virtual rebate redemption, companies can track repeat customers and learn how their rebate programs builds loyalty over time. And according to a recent article in McKinsey Quarterly, businesses wanting to stay competitive
need to move as quickly in the digital space as their customers do. “As the world changes, the way consumers shop and use rebates continues to shift to digital. We know brands are placing priority on providing customers with simple, engaging digital experiences,” said Seth Brennan, CEO of North Lane. “Virtual rebates are highly effective at providing an enhanced customer experience and incentive, driving purchases, increased engagement, and ultimately, brand loyalty.” To learn more about digital incentives and other options for your business, visit www.NorthLane.com. (BPT) l
MARCH / APRIL 2021 TEEN
FLUENTIAL 45
Teen
10 TIPS
Keeping fresh fruit around the house provides a healthier alternative when your sweet tooth comes calling.
U
nderstanding how and when to buy at the peak of ripeness (or just before, in some cases) can help you avoid food waste while keeping your doctor happy. Consider these simple tips for recognizing ripe fruits:
•
Strawberries: Check the area at the top of the berry near the stem and leaves. A ripe strawberry is fully red; green or white near the top means the fruit is underripe.
• Watermelon: The “field spot,” or the area where the melon sat on the ground, should be yellow, and a tap on the rind should produce a hollow sound.
• Cherries: Flesh should appear dark with a crimson color and feel firm.
•
Blueberries: Like cherries, color should deepen to dark blue. A reddish or pink color may be visible in unripe berries.
•
Blackberries: Look for a smooth texture without any redin appearance. Because blackberries don’t ripen after
46 TEEN
being picked, they tend to spoil quickly.
•
Cantaloupe: You should detect a
sweet smell, and the melon should feel heavy upon lifting.
•
Peaches: A sweet, fragrant odor
should be apparent. Skin should feel tender but not soft.
•
Pineapple: Smell is again an
important factor for pineapple – a sweet scent shows it’s ready, but a vinegary one likely means it’s overripe.
•
Raspberries: Generally, follow the same rules as blackberries. Best eaten within a couple days of purchase, a bright red color represents ripe berries.
• Bananas: A ripe banana features a peel lightly spotted without significant bruising. Your best bet may be to purchase bananas still slightly green and allow them to ripen at home. Find more food tips, tricks, recipes, and videos at Culinary.net. (Culinary.net) l
FLUENTIAL MARCH / APRIL 2021
influential-magazine.com
FOOD & BEVERAGE
TO RECOGNIZE
RipeFruits
MARCH / APRIL 2021 TEEN
FLUENTIAL 47
Teen
SLURPING ON
Sunshine
It’s that time of year again when nearly everyone wants to be outside all day, every day. These are the times kids have been waiting for all year long.
T
he sun is shining bright in the sky, the flowers are blooming, and the temperature is rising every minute. Spring and summer are typically full of fun, laughter, family, and friends – not to mention great recipes everyone can enjoy indoors and outdoors throughout the warmer months. Try this Sunshine Smoothie for something cool and refreshing during the sunny seasons. This recipe will have nearly everyone feeling re-energized and ready for more warm weather. It’s a perfect afternoon pick-me-up after a long day of yard work, sunbathing, or swing-set climbing. It can cool you down and has a fruity flavor that is almost irresistible. When thinking about recipes to try this spring, consider taking advantage of fresh fruits and vegetables at grocery stores and farmer’s markets. There can be so many wonderful flavors to try. For
48 TEEN
FLUENTIAL MARCH / APRIL 2021
example, this recipe includes grapefruit (a less commonly used fruit), fresh orange, and ripe bananas. With the heat coming and fresh ingredients available, this smoothie may quickly become one of your family’s new favorites. It’s light, smooth and has that fresh fruit taste you often crave when the sun is blazing. To make this recipe, blend 2 cups of grape juice, 2 cups of orange juice, two ripe bananas, 1 cup of vanilla yogurt and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until the ingredients are smooth. Be sure to serve cold. It’ll be nearly impossible to resist a sweet, bright, and creamy smoothie after a long day of play out in the sun. Find more seasonal recipes and ideas at Culinary.net. (Culinary.net) l
influential-magazine.com
FOOD & BEVERAGE
Sunshine Smoothie Servings: 2-4 2 cups orange juice 2 cups grapefruit juice 2 bananas, peeled and cut into chunks 1 cup vanilla yogurt 1 teaspoon vanilla extract In blender, blend orange juice, grapefruit juice, banana chunks, yogurt and vanilla extract until smooth. Serve immediately. Note: If smoothie is too tart, reduce to 1 cup grapefruit juice.
MARCH / APRIL 2021 TEEN
FLUENTIAL 49
Teen A BRUNCH SPREAD FIT
FOR SPRING
From tasty small bites to a filling feast and even dessert for breakfast, brunch options are nearly endless.Take your spring brunch to the next level with recipes that appease appetites of all kinds.
F
irst, start with portioned pastry cups perfect for appetizers. Bring out the protein-packed breakfast burritos for the main course then, for a final touch of sweet deliciousness, offer up lemony doughnuts to cap off the feast. Find more brunch recipes at Culinary.net.
Bite-Sized Breakfast Appetizer-sized portions and small bites of all sorts are ideal for breakfast spreads, and these Pastry Brunch Cups are perfect for starting a morning meal with loved ones. Or, if a busy schedule looms, try baking a batch and separating into appropriate serving sizes for a simple way to meal prep heading into a new week.
Pastry Brunch Cups Servings: 18
2 tablespoons butter 2 tablespoons flour 1 1/2 cups milk 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese 2 sheets puff pastry 18 eggs 2 cups diced ham chopped fresh green onions
1. Heat oven 375 F. 2. In small saucepan, melt butter. Whisk flour with butter. Gradually pour in milk, whisking each time. Bring to simmer, whisking until mixture starts to thicken. Remove from heat; stir in Swiss cheese. Set aside. 3. Use rolling pin to thin out puff pastries. Cut each into nine squares. Line pastry squares in muffin cups, pressing bottoms down firmly and moving pastries up sides for edges to come up just over muffin tins. Fill each cup with 1 teaspoon cheese sauce. Crack one egg into each cup and sprinkle each with diced ham. 4. Bake 10-15 minutes until eggs set. Sprinkle with chopped green onions.
Find more breakfast recipes at Culinary.net.
50 TEEN
FLUENTIAL MARCH / APRIL 2021
influential-magazine.com
FEATURE
MARCH / APRIL 2021 TEEN
FLUENTIAL
51
Teen Power Brunch with a Protein-Packed Burrito A well-rounded brunch calls for a multitude of dishes and beverages, but it wouldn’t be complete without a proteinpacked recipe to get the day started. This delicious Breakfast Burrito is loaded with colorful veggies and Silver Fern Farms 100% grass-fed strip steak. Hailing from New Zealand, home to some of the world’s most natural tasting beef and lamb, this premium cut of beef is aged 21 days and minimally processed with no added growth hormones or antibiotics. The animals are grass-fed year-round and allowed to roam and graze freely, so the beef offers a lean, flavorful texture that tastes just as nature intended. Visit silverfernfarms.com to find more at-home brunch inspiration.
Breakfast Burrito
1 Silver Fern Farms New Zealand 100% Grass-Fed New York Strip Steak (10 ounces) oil salt, to taste pepper, to taste 1/2 onion, finely chopped 1 red bell pepper, sliced lengthwise 4 large mushrooms, sliced 1 teaspoon cumin 1 teaspoon paprika 1/2-1 teaspoon chili powder 1 tomato, finely chopped 8 eggs 1/2 cup milk 4 large tortillas
52 TEEN
1 cup spinach 1 1/2 ounces feta cheese, crumbled 1/4 cup cilantro 1 avocado limewedges (optional) hot sauce (optional)
1. Remove steak from packaging and set aside 10 minutes. Once steak reaches room temperature, heat pan over medium-high heat. 2. Rub steak with oil and season with salt and pepper, to taste. 3. Cook until medium-rare, approximately 3-4 minutes each side. Remove from pan and cover loosely with tinfoil to rest 5 minutes. 4. Reduce heat to medium and add splash of oil. Add onion; cook 1 minute. Add red bell pepper and mushrooms; cook 1 minute. 5. Add cumin, paprika, and chili powder; stir through. 6. When veggies are tender (about 2 minutes), add tomato and cook until soft. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. 7. In large bowl, whisk eggs, milk, and salt and pepper, to taste. 8. Heat pan to medium heat and add splash of oil. 9. Pour egg mixture into pan and cook, lifting and folding eggs until thickened and no visible liquid egg remains. Do not stir constantly. 10. Lay tortillas on flat surface or plate. 11. In center of tortilla, add cooked veggies and top with thinly sliced beef. Add handful of spinach, scrambled eggs, crumbled feta, cilantro, and avocado. Fold bottom of tortilla and roll. 12. Serve with lime wedges and hot sauce, if desired.
FLUENTIAL MARCH / APRIL 2021
Dine on Deliciously Sweet Doughnuts Brunch is never complete without something sweet to cap off the morning feast, and doughnuts are often the perfect complement to an array of main courses. These Lemon Ricotta Doughnuts pair the bite-sized morsels with lemon curd (if that suits your style) for a sweet-tart combination. They’re made using Domino Golden Sugar, which is made from pure cane sugar and is less processed than white granulated sugar, as one you can always trust in your favorite recipes. It works cup-for-cup just like white sugar but with a golden color and distinct hint of molasses flavor. Visit dominosugar.com to find recipes perfect for entertaining and celebrating throughout the year.
influential-magazine.com
FEATURE
Lemon Ricotta Doughnuts Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 7 minutes
Doughnuts: Vegetable oil, for frying 2 cups all-purpose flour 1 3/4 cups Domino Golden Sugar, divided 2 tablespoons baking powder 1/4 teaspoon salt 2 tablespoons lemon zest 5 large eggs 1 3/4 cups ricotta cheese 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
Lemon Curd (optional): 1 stick unsalted butter, softened 1 1/2 cups Domino Golden Sugar 2 large eggs 2 egg yolks 4 lemons, zest and juice only 1/8 teaspoon salt
1. To make doughnuts: In large saucepan, preheat oil to 350 F. Prepare cookie sheet with paper towel to drain doughnuts once out of hot oil. 2. In bowl, mix flour, 3/4 cup sugar, baking powder and salt. Add lemon zest, eggs, ricotta cheese and vanilla extract; mix until well combined. 3. Use ice cream scoop to scoop small
amounts dough into oil, 4-5 pieces at a time. Fry each batch until golden brown, about 7 minutes. Keep oil at or near 350 F; if oil is too hot, doughnuts will turn golden brown, but centers may still be raw. Remove from oil and drain in paper towel. Repeat with remaining dough. 4. While still hot, toss doughnuts with remaining sugar. 5. To make lemon curd, if desired: In large bowl of stand mixer, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs and egg yolks, one at a time. Add lemon zest, lemon juice and salt. 6. Transfer mixture to saucepan and cook at low-medium heat until thick and creamy, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and let cool before serving with doughnuts. (Family Features) l
MARCH / APRIL 2021 TEEN
FLUENTIAL 53
Teen
A SEASONAL You can almost feel spring in the air, and with the warmer weather comes delicious, delectable foods. From casseroles to fresh fruits and wholesome vegetables, a change of season offers something to look forward to for nearly every foodie.
A
spring dish that is sure to impress is this Cheesy Asparagus Tart. It has melty cheese, cooked asparagus and an under layer of puff pastry baked to golden brown perfection. Start by cooking your asparagus on the stove top in 5 cups of water for 5-8 minutes. Then soak it in an ice bath until cooled. Transfer to a mixing bowl to add vegetable oil, salt and pepper for tasty, seasoned veggies. Now it’s time to work with your puff pastry. Sprinkle some flour on a flat countertop. Roll out the thawed
54 TEEN
puff pastry to a 16-by-10-inch rectangle. Move to a lined baking sheet and prick with a fork to create a thin, flaky texture. Bake around 12 minutes and cool. The final steps: mix the cheeses, shallots, egg yolks, nutmeg, salt, and
FLUENTIAL MARCH / APRIL 2021
pepper. Spread this mixture across the pastry and lay asparagus over the top. Bake 5 more minutes. For a little extra flavor, add lemon zest over the tart. This tart is a perfect appetizer before Sunday brunch or to
influential-magazine.com
FOOD & BEVERAGE
SpringSurprise cut up and take outside for some al fresco dining this spring. It’s got gooey, melted cheeses, is seasoned well and has hearty asparagus on top. Plus, it’s a yummy way to add vegetables to your kids’ diet (and yours, too). Find more spring recipes and dining ideas at Culinary.net.
Cheesy Asparagus Tart Servings: 8-10 5 cups water 1 pound asparagus ice water 2 teaspoons vegetable oil 1/4 teaspoon salt, plus additional, to taste, divided 1/4 teaspoon pepper, plus additional, to taste, divided flour, for dusting
1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed 1 cup grated fontina cheese 1 cup grated gruyere cheese 1 tablespoon shallot, minced 2 egg yolks 3 tablespoons milk 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg 1 lemon, zest only 1. Heat oven to 400 F. 2. In large skillet, add water and asparagus. Cook 5-8 minutes until asparagus is bright green. 3. Drain asparagus and soak in ice water. 4. In large bowl, mix drained asparagus, vegetable oil, salt, and pepper until combined. 5. Flour surface area. Using rolling pin, roll out pastry to 10-by-16-inch rectangle. Transfer pastry to parchmentlined baking sheet. Prick pastry with fork. Bake about 12 minutes, or until golden brown. Cool slightly on baking sheet. 6. In large bowl, mix fontina cheese, gruyere cheese, shallot, egg yolks, milk, nutmeg and salt and pepper, to taste, until combined. Spread cheese over pastry, leaving 1 inch around edges. Lay asparagus over cheese mixture. 7. Bake 5 minutes, or until cheese has melted. 8. Sprinkle lemon zest over tart and serve. (Culinary.net) l
MARCH / APRIL 2021 TEEN
FLUENTIAL 55
Teen
TOP CHEFS FIND INSPIRATION CLOSE TO HOME Celebrated chefs Wolfgang Puck, Nancy Silverton, Gerald Hirigoyen and Martin Yan are known and active the world over, but they all call California home. For their award-winning restaurants, product lines, cookbooks and TV shows, they draw inspiration from the bountiful fresh ingredients the Golden State has to offer.
“C
alifornia is my favorite place in the world to cook,” said Puck. “The climate is such that we can get the best ingredients - the freshest produce, fish, nuts - with so much flavor.” It’s this same culinary opportunity that drew French-born Hirigoyen, the chef and owner of Piperade in San Francisco, to California. “The food revolution - knowing where food comes from, how nutritious it is, and supporting the people who grow it - was happening in California, so I came to progress, and with all we have available, continue to progress.” One California crop that has captured these chefs’ collective imagination of late? Pistachios. “I find their flavor and crunch irresistible and I love the color,” said L.A.-based chef Silverton. “It’s really easy to add pistachios to almost anything you make. Their flavor enhances other ingredients so well, but they can also be the star of a dish.” “The great thing about pistachios is they are just the right size, and they add flavor, color and texture to your dish, on top of all the nutritional benefits,” said Yan.
56 TEEN
FLUENTIAL MARCH / APRIL 2021
influential-magazine.com
FEATURE
MARCH / APRIL 2021 TEEN
FLUENTIAL 57
Teen menus, the little green nut is suddenly red hot. But don’t worry about there being a shortage. This year’s American pistachio harvest yielded a recordsetting one billion pounds.
out across surface with a pastry brush. Roast in a preheated 450°F (232°C) oven for 15 to 20 minutes for rare/medium rare, or longer depending on preferred doneness. Remove from oven and let rest for 10 to 15 minutes.
Wolfgang Puck’s Roasted Assembly: Rack of Lamb with Pistachio Cut lamb racks between the bones into Sate Sauce individual chops. You can plate the lamb Yield: 6 to 8 servings
Wolfgang Puck Long a popular snack, the trend of using pistachios for cooking appears to be spreading beyond California. American Pistachio Growers, the trade organization of pistachio farmers in the western United States, reports the sale of pistachio kernels, or unshelled nuts, domestically has risen 14%, and represents 22% of all pistachio sales. Representatives cite the reason as a combination of the increase in people preparing meals at home since the outbreak of COVID-19, and the desire for healthy ingredients. Pistachios are nutrient-dense and high in protein. Earlier this year, pistachios earned the status of being a “complete protein,” making them popular among people following a plant-based diet. In July, a university study underscored the importance of pistachios as part of weight-loss programs. With the world’s top chefs adding more pistachio-inspired dishes to their
58 TEEN
Pistachio Sate Sauce: 1 cup / 230 g coconut milk 1/4 cup / 60 g lime juice, freshly squeezed 1/4 cup / 60 g pistachio butter* 1 tbsp. / 16 g soy sauce 1/4 cup / 5 g cilantro 1/4 cup / 13 g green onions, minced 2 tsp. / 30 g Aleppo chiles, or another mild citrussy chile Method: In a small saucepan combine coconut milk and lime juice. Heat over medium heat, whisking constantly until coconut milk is hot and aromatic. Transfer to a blender and add remaining ingredients. Adjust seasonings to taste and set aside. Rack of Lamb: 2 each lamb racks, frenchedOlive oil, as neededKosher salt, as neededBlack pepper, freshly ground, as needed 1/2 cup / 170 g pomegranate syrup Method: Rub all sides of lamb racks with olive oil, salt and pepper. Place on a baking sheet and drizzle pomegranate syrup across the top of each rack and even
FLUENTIAL MARCH / APRIL 2021
on individual plates or a platter. Using your own presentation style, fan sweet potatoes or other vegetable on both sides of plates or platter, arrange 2 chops per person, drizzle Pistachio Sate onto plate, drizzle pomegranate syrup on top of the vegetable and sprinkle with a generous amount of pistachios, finish with a few sprigs of fresh cilantro. *Pistachio Butter: 2 cups / 250 g pistachios, roasted1/4 to 1/2 cup / 55 g - 110 g grapeseed oil 1/4 tsp. / 1 g sea salt, optional Method: Scoop pistachios into a food processor and run for 60 to 90 seconds. Open the processor and scrape the sides. Run for another 60 to 90 seconds. Scrape down the sides and continue processing. Slowly drizzle oil as needed into the butter as it’s processing until you achieve the texture and consistency you prefer. Add optional sea salt and pulse to combine. Transfer butter to a container with a snap-on lid. Refrigerate if holding the butter for more than a few days. Equipment Needed: Blender, baking sheets, small saucepan, whisk, and pastry brush. (BPT) l
Teen
60 TEEN
FLUENTIAL MARCH / APRIL 2021
influential-magazine.com
FOOD & BEVERAGE
SERVE A
SweetTreat S
urprise your family with a dessert fit for the season. This Carrot Cake recipe is a traditional take on the timeless treat and created using everyday ingredients.
Find more dessert inspiration at Culinary.net.
Carrot Cake 2 1/4 cups flour 1 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon baking powder 1 cup vegetable oil 1 1/4 cups sugar 3 eggs 1 1/2 cups carrots, shredded 1 cup crushed pineapple with juice 2/3 cup walnuts
1. Heat oven to 350 F. 2. In large bowl, sift flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and baking powder. 3. In mixing bowl, cream together oil and sugar. Add eggs one at a time. Gradually add in carrots and crushed pineapple. 4. Add dry mixture to wet ingredients and beat until smooth. Fold in walnuts. 5. Pour batter into two lightly greased 8-inch round cake pans and bake 25-30 minutes, or until knife inserted in center comes out clean. Allow cakes to cool completely. Remove cakes from pans and slice off tops to level cakes. 6. To make frosting: In mixing bowl, cream together cream cheese, butter, and vanilla. Gradually add in powdered sugar and mix until smooth. 7. Spread two large spoonfuls frosting over top of one cake and stack second cake on top. Frost entire cake with remaining frosting. (Culinary.net) l
Frosting: 2 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese 3/4 cup butter, softened 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 5 1/2 cups powdered sugar
MARCH / APRIL 2021 TEEN
FLUENTIAL
61
Teen EXPLORING THE PATIENT-CAREGIVER RELATIONSHIP:
THE STORY OF A FAMILY’S JOURNEY NAVIGATING A
CANCER DIAGNOSIS T
his was the case for Jordan Mendelson, who was diagnosed with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), a cancer that grows in lymph nodes, the glands in the neck, armpits, groin or abdomen. In an instant, Jordan’s parents and his older brother became his caregivers, supporting him as he navigated treatment and management of his disease. DLBCL is the most common type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) in adults worldwide, and there are around 28,000 patients diagnosed with the disease each year in the United States. It can
62 TEEN
FLUENTIAL MARCH / APRIL 2021
influential-magazine.com
FEATURE
When faced with a cancer diagnosis, life often changes drastically, with each person experiencing the impact differently. One change that can cause great uncertainty is an unexpected shift in relationships, especially with family or those closest to the patient. For some, the established family dynamic can quickly shift into a relationship of patient and caregiver.
MARCH / APRIL 2021 TEEN
FLUENTIAL 63
Teen PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF WWW.LYMPHOMA.ORG
Eric Mendelson with son Josh, wife Debbi and son Jordan at the 2019 New York Lymphoma Walk affect people of any age, though more than half of new cases are diagnosed in people over 65. In Jordan’s case, he was 23 and just days before starting the spring semester of his pre-med program when he received his diagnosis.
“It was startling - it really is scary to hear any cancer diagnosis. And when the surgeon told me, while the news was hard to hear for myself, I found it even more difficult thinking how I would share this news with my family,” says Jordan.
Symptoms of DLBCL include painless swelling in the lymph nodes, unexplained fever, drenching night sweats, persistent fatigue, weight loss, a rash or itchy skin, pain in the chest, abdomen and bones, loss of appetite, sensation of bloating or fullness, enlarged spleen or liver, cough and skin lumps, among others. For Jordan, while on a family vacation, he felt a lump in his left armpit; after discussing his symptoms with his family, it became clear that he needed to see a doctor. Within a month, it was confirmed that Jordan had DLBCL, and that’s when everything changed.
Following the devastation of a DLBCL diagnosis - or any cancer diagnosis figuring out how to balance relationships can take time and pose unique, unexpected challenges along the way. The DLBCL journey has been described as one of continual ups and downs.
64 TEEN
Patients may worry they are a burden, or alternatively, feel responsible for the emotional support of their caregivers. Caregivers often want to provide help in any way that they can but may not know how to truly empathize with what the patient is experiencing. Both may have a
FLUENTIAL MARCH / APRIL 2021
fear of the unknown, or frustration. Please remember that your healthcare provider remains the best source of information regarding your treatment and condition. To support both patients and caregivers, Jordan, and his family shared tips they found helpful as they navigated their own patient-caregiver journey together:
1.
Lean on Your Friends and Family A good support system makes all the difference. For a patient or a caregiver, while it may feel difficult at times, it can be helpful to open up and lean on family and/ or friends, even if it seems like you are better off handling the situation on your own. “What I say to people now is, I might have been the only person that had cancer, but
influential-magazine.com
FEATURE we all fought it together - and I think that is really important to maintain perspective on,” says Jordan. “Even though you can sometimes feel alone, it’s important to remember those supporting you are going through the experience with you, even if they are not the ones receiving treatment. They go through the emotional highs and lows just like you do. My family - my parents and my brother - were instrumental to me during this entire process as I was going through the diagnosis and then treatment.” “A cancer diagnosis changes everything - it changes the family, it changes the dynamic, but it’s very important to keep your head about you and remember that you are all in this together, especially when tensions are high,” says Eric, Jordan’s father. “We were very fortunate to have a great support system during this experience, among the four of us and beyond. As the parents of a sick child, you can’t do this alone. Jordan’s friends who reached out to help him, helped all of us. Those are the people we will be eternally grateful to. I don’t care who you are and how strong you think you are; you cannot do this alone - and I know the support we received was invaluable.”
2. Openly Communicate
Ongoing communication between patient and caregiver is crucial. As a patient, it is important to be honest about how you are feeling, and let your caregiver know if you need something - even if that something is simply a little space. “This experience was a significant adjustment for everyone at the beginning, but the patient-caregiver part of our relationship got much easier as time went
on - so just give it time,” says Jordan. “At the beginning, it was difficult because no one knew what to do or expect, but after that first treatment cycle, it became more familiar and we were able to get into our individual roles more easily. For us, it was a very transformational change to the caregiverpatient dynamic when we were able to be honest with each other about how we were feeling and what we needed in the moment.” And for someone in a caregiver role, it’s equally important to be open about how you are feeling and coping with the situation - just because you are not the one undergoing treatment does not mean you are not impacted by what is happening.
3. Don’t be Afraid to Ask
for and Accept Help
As the Mendelson family can attest, there may come a time when help is needed from outside of the patientcaregiver relationship to get through a step in the journey. There are many organizations that can help provide tailored support for your specific cancer and relate to the experience both patients and caregivers are facing. “Talking with other people going through what you are, such as other caretakers or a professional, can really help,” says Debbi, Jordan’s mother. “Shortly after Jordan’s diagnosis a social worker told me about resources and groups, and at the time, I didn’t feel like that was necessary ... but it was. For me, especially toward the end of treatment when some of the immediate shock was over, talking to others really helped me process the experience. I highly recommend getting
connected with an organization that understands what patients and caregivers are going through.”
4. Try to Maintain Some
Normalcy in Your Daily Life For both patients and caregivers, the logistics of figuring out how to cope with a cancer diagnosis and ongoing treatment may at times seem like all there is. But it’s not, and the Mendelson family believes finding a way to keep elements of your everyday life intact can help. “For me it was school, but it could be anything - a job, a hobby - just try to keep that up,” says Jordan. “It’s important to remember that even though it feels like all you are is a cancer or lymphoma patient, that isn’t true - you are more than that. And doing those normal, everyday activities when you can does help.” Josh, Jordan’s brother, summarizes his family’s experience navigating the DLBCL and patient-caregiver journeys as follows: “Our relationship as a family has always been close-knit, and I think this really brought us even closer. For us, it was all about taking each day one step at a time. The most critical thing you can do is be there for each other. Sometimes Jordan appreciated us doing nothing more than anything, so learning how to be understanding of our individual needs was important - and knowing that you’re all in this together.” To find resources and support for patients and caregivers navigating a lymphoma diagnosis, visit the Lymphoma Research Foundation at lymphoma.org/resources/. (BPT)l
MARCH / APRIL 2021 TEEN
FLUENTIAL 65
Teen A FREE WAY TO SAVE MONEY ON PRESCRIPTIONS AND HELP
Audrey is a 12-year-old girl from Arizona with a passion for fashion. She spends her free time flipping through style magazines and listening to her favorite songs. She dreams of having her photo professionally taken in a long, whimsical dress that covers the leg braces that help her stay steady.
KidswithCri
W
hile Audrey’s interests are not uncommon for girls her age, her life is hugely different due to a nervous system disorder. She is not a stranger to hospitals and is homeschooled by her family. Although her childhood has been challenging, she tries to do many of the things typical preteens like to do, including crafting, reading, and dressing up in her favorite clothing.
Audrey’s Wish Comes True For Audrey, being a model is the ultimate dream. She imagined getting her hair and makeup done by professionals, dressing up in a lengthy blue gown inspired by her favorite princess, and having her picture taken by photographers, just like the models in the fashion magazines she loves so much. That’s why Audrey was overwhelmed with excitement when she learned she would be able to experience all of this in real life. In celebration of BuzzRx’s 500th
66 TEEN
FLUENTIAL MARCH / APRIL 2021
wish with Make-A-Wish® America, the company partnered with Make-A-Wish® Arizona to grant Audrey’s wish to have a magazine-like fashion shoot in her hometown of Scottsdale, Arizona.
“The BuzzRx team feels lucky to be able to grant this wish,” says Shane Power, BuzzRx® chief revenue and impact officer. “Wishes are not just nice, they’re necessary. Wishes have proven to give a child hope, joy and strength to fight against their illness.” For her photo shoot, Audrey wore three different outfits including a beautiful, poufy blue gown, had her hair and makeup done by a team of professionals and had photos taken by a professional photographer.
Save on Prescriptions and Support Make-A-Wish Audrey’s wish was possible thanks to generous support from BuzzRx, an
influential-magazine.com
HEALTH & WELLNESS
organization that offers a free, readyto-use Prescription Discount Card for anyone to use at more than 60,000 pharmacies nationwide, including those who have health insurance. Every time a cardholder saves with the card, the company donates $1 to Make-A-Wish. This is at no cost to
the cardholder and has no effect on discounted prescription prices. To date, the company has donated $5 million to Make-A-Wish, helping to grant 500 life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses. To get a card, visit www.buzzrx.com/wish, text WISH to
riticalIllnesses
phone number 95577, or download the free mobile app. The card can be used to save up to 80% on both generic and brand-name prescriptions. When you fill a prescription and present the card, you can feel good about saving money and helping make more wishes come true for kids like Audrey. Her wish experience, along with the stunning photographs from her high-fashion photo shoot, will provide joy and hope for her and her family for many years to come. (BPT) l
MARCH / APRIL 2021 TEEN
FLUENTIAL 67
Teen GETTING
MoreMovement THROUGHOUT THE DAY
kPHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF
(C) SANJA RADIN / ISTOCK VIA GETTY IMAGES PLUS.
68 TEEN
FLUENTIAL MARCH / APRIL 2021
influential-magazine.com
HEALTH & WELLNESS Working or learning from home? It’s more important than ever to ensure you move throughout the day. Doing so will help keep your mind and body healthy and agile. Here are a few tips to move more throughout the day.
•
Take designated breaks: While your workplace likely afforded you regular opportunities to move around, such as getting up to speak to a colleague or attend a meeting, home workspaces often involve a lot less natural movement. Set a timer for regular intervals. Every time you hear the beep, stretch, move about or take a walk to the kitchen for a glass of water. You’ll be giving your eyes a much-needed break too. If possible, consider even building a midday walk or jog around the neighborhood into your schedule.
• Track your movement: Wearable tech can help you stay accountable throughout the day. The timepieces in the G-SHOCK line-up feature step trackers and other cool heart smart health and fitness functions that can help you enhance your workout. In addition to counting steps, the GBD800-1B for men and the GMDB800-1 for women track calories burned, exercise intensity levels and activity goal achievements when connected to the G-SHOCK app. They also feature daily, weekly and monthly activity graphs so you can set goals and track your progress over time. Are you a fitness enthusiast who wants to get into the real nitty-gritty of metrics? Check out the G-Shock MOVE GBDH1000. Its heart rate monitor displays your current heart rate, as well as the heart rate zone for five stages of exercise intensity. It also estimates VO2max, a measure of your maximum rate of oxygen consumption, a useful benchmark for cardiorespiratory ability if you’re looking to build endurance. When you get outdoors for an adventure, its GPS functionality and other sensors can help orient you.
•
Mix it up: There are four types of exercise, according to the National Institutes of Health -- endurance, strength, balance, and flexibility -- and each type has different benefits for your body. Varying your workouts can ensure you gain the benefits of all four types. Need some inspiration? There are plenty of free routines available online, many of which offer modifications to work for different fitness levels. Just search for what you’re looking for and you’re bound to find some great follow-along programming to meet your needs. And remember, a workout doesn’t need to be a certain length to be beneficial. If you have only a few minutes to squeeze movement into your day, be sure to take it. Using new tools, it’s easier than ever to stay accountable to your fitness goals, even when you are spending a lot of time at home. (StatePoint) l
MARCH / APRIL 2021 TEEN
FLUENTIAL 69
Teen FROM AMORE TO L’AMOUR:
DiscoverYour LanguageofLove
No topic gets the heart pumping like love. And despite plenty of advice from experts, not everyone shows affection in the same way. Why not try to communicate with your paramour like you never have before? Instead of saying “I love you,” say “je t’aime” or “ich liebe dich” instead - show your special someone that you love them in another language!
I
f you’re not too savvy with languages, but you still want to do something amazing, there are still plenty of ways to express your feelings. Here are fun, creative tips on showing your passion.
1. Celebrate Your Loved One’s Travel Dream Maybe your sweetheart has been saving up to visit Machu Picchu in Peru. Perhaps they can’t wait to float down the Danube River in Europe or climb Mount Fuji in Japan. While you may not be able to make these dream trips a reality right now, you can take time to learn more
70 TEEN
about the places your loved one wants to visit - and how you’d get there if you had the chance. Plan out an imaginary trip with the object of your affection, all the way down to what sites you’d visit after arriving at your destination. Take things a step further by gifting your loved one with an immersive language program. This will help them prepare for future international adventures! Rosetta Stone is a convenient languagelearning software that allows you to
FLUENTIAL MARCH / APRIL 2021
see, hear, speak, read and write while learning new words and phrases, right on your desktop, laptop, tablet or phone. Rosetta Stone uses a Dynamic Immersion approach that ensures you’ll be immersed in your new language from the start, with reading, writing, listening, and speaking exercises that work with your brain’s natural language processing ability to help you learn any of their 25 languages fast. With Rosetta Stone, you and your loved one will intuitively learn through a series of photos, spoken words and written words. Just download the Rosetta Stone app and begin learning a new language!
2. Explore a New Activity or Skill Together To express your love beyond words, why not give your special someone the gift of a shared experience? Way more engaging and longer lasting than a pricey dinner or a bouquet of roses, choosing something you and your loved one can do together will not just deepen your bond, but open the door to more fun and meaningful interactions in years to come.
influential-magazine.com
LIFESTYLE Take up a new instrument, enroll in an art class or tackle a foreign language. The great news is there are plenty of online classes, programs, and tutorials for just about any hobby, game, or life skill you’d like to explore with your partner.
3. Explore Your Loved One’s Background It doesn’t really matter if you share a cultural background with your loved one - you can always make the day meaningful by exploring your partner’s heritage. Here are just a few
ways to show your special someone that you’re extremely interested in what makes them unique:
•
Get them an ancestry kit so they can learn more about their own ethnic background. Help them discover their family background by enlisting their older relatives into creating a family tree. Find out how to make a dish (or where to order one) from your sweetheart’s culture and surprise them with a special meal.
• •
•
Use a language learning app like Rosetta Stone to memorize ways to express your love to your partner in the language of their parents, grandparents, or even great-great-grandparents. Choose a unique, easily downloadable gift with Rosetta Stone and reveal your new language skill as a surprise or make your gift the experience of exploring a new vernacular. Whatever you choose, there’s nothing more romantic than saying “I love you” in a language that speaks to the heart. (BPT) l
MARCH / APRIL 2021 TEEN
FLUENTIAL
71
Teen
k PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF (C) JILLIANCAIN / ISTOCK VIA GETTY IMAGES PLUS.
BIRDS ATTACKING YOUR WINDOWS? 72 TEEN
FLUENTIAL MARCH / APRIL 2021
influential-magazine.com
LIFESTYLE If you’ve ever noticed a bird attack your windows, you may wonder why this strange behavior is occurring. Beyond the potential disruption it might cause your family, repeated attacks can be harmful to birds. Understanding the problem; however, can help you put a stop to it, and better protect the birds nesting on your property.
The Problem Many birds will stake out a territory, perhaps by your home, and vigorously defend it. If a territorial bird discovers its reflection in your window, it may perceive this reflection to be another bird competing for its territory and mate, compelling the bird to attack. This attack of its own reflection can take the form of pecking or scratching at your window, as well as flying up and banging into your window. When repeated, these actions deplete a bird’s energy and put its health and the health of its nesting young at risk. Though this can occur at any time of year, it happens most often in spring, with males.
A Solution You can help stop this problem from occurring. One good solution designed to do so is Stop Bird Attack, a removable, white coating that may be sprayed on any window. It eliminates the bird’s window reflection, calms the bird and stops the attack. Effective for Northern Cardinals, American Robins, California Towhees and other territorial birds, Stop Bird Attack is made by WindowAlert, a brand that also makes bird window decals and UV Liquid products that help prevent bird strikes (another common hazard to birds). More information can be found by visiting www.windowalert.com.
Take it a Step Further While you are at it, consider other dangers to birds that you can eliminate on your property. For example, by swapping out conventional pesticides with essential oils, you can ward off pests in your garden without putting birds at risk. You might also try keeping pet cats indoors or in an enclosure to prevent them from attacking birds. “While your home’s windows can be an unexpected hazard to birds, it’s important to be aware of the easy solutions that can help keep them safe this spring nesting season and beyond,” says Spencer Schock, founder of WindowAlert. (StatePoint) l
Here’sHowtoStopIt MARCH / APRIL 2021 TEEN
FLUENTIAL 73
