May / June 2020 Teen InFluential Magazine

Teen WWW.INFLUENTIAL-MAGAZINE.COM MAY / JUNE 2020

STUCK INSIDE?

6 FUN ENRICHMENT ACTIVITIES FOR YOU AND YOUR PET The Hottest Spring and Summer Trends for Your Wardrobe Are Handmade

Everything You Need to Boost Your Self-Care Routine

TEEN INFLUENTIAL SPOTLIGHT FEATURING

LALIA

SUSINI

YoungHeroes!

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF THE FOX AND THE MERMAID

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Entertainment

08 | JUNO Award-Nominated Teen

Supergroup GIRL POW-R Leading Fans To Help Those In Need During COVID-19

features

14 | Gloria Barron Prize for Young Heroes -- National Award Inspires Today’s Youth to Help People and the Planet – 48 | 5 Ways to Maximize Groceries and Minimize Waste 56 | Life with a Rare, Chronic, and ‘Invisible’ Illness 72 | How to Make the Most of Online Learning

Fashion & Style

20 | Hello Healthy Curls!

finance

44 | Building Credit at 18:

Tips for a Solid Financial Foundation

Food & Beverage

46 | Spring Clean Your Diet

With 5 Fridge Essentials

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FASHION EDITORIAL 24 | THE HOTTEST

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SPRING AND SUMMER TRENDS FOR YOUR WARDROBE ARE HANDMADE

Health & Wellness

52 | Everything You Need

to Boost Your Self-Care Routine 54 | How You Can Help Children in Poverty During the Pandemic Without Leaving Home

Lifestyle

62 | Arousing Admiration:

The Charm of Hummingbirds

64 | Feature-Rich Dog

Parks Are Coming to Towns Across America 66 | How to Manage Stress Through Music 68 | How You Can Help Protect Wild Birds in Your Yard 70 | Stuck Inside?

6 Fun Enrichment Activities for You and Your Pet

Teen InFluential Spotlight 76 | Featuring Lalia Susini

travel

82 | 7 Ways to Enjoy a Virtual Myrtle Beach Vacation

Teen 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 and Technology Editor William Jackson, MBA, GQ Insider, 2018 Folio: 100 Honoree Health & Wellness Editor Ingrid Garner

EDITORIAL CREDITS

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

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

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF THE FOX AND THE MERMAID

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

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

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

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

ART & PRODUCTION Contributing Photographer Debie Patton / Shandrew PR Girl Pow-R My Soigne The Fox and the Mermaid Creative Services What Taller Gráfico Argenis Gudino Jose Luis Venegas Quintero 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.

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

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

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

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.

Recipient of the American Graphic Design Award Greater Austin Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Capital of Texas Awards Univision Communication Media Award Finalist

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OUR PUBLISHER’S NOTE

I must be totally honest, at this point we were left with the important question: What do we do? You see, the world is in total turmoil and there’s mayhem prevailing everywhere. Does it make sense to keep creating?

If we do, would it seem as if we lack empathy and compassion? The landscape for many is changed (working from home, homeschooling, the lifesaving necessity to wear face masks in some public situations) and how would we add value during these critical times became an important consideration in the manner in which we engage with our precious readers.

Our decision is to continue to create and be a beacon of hope in an evolving world.

In early January, our team met to plan our 2020 Editorial Calendar. We had just celebrated a phenomenal 2019, full of accomplishments, travel, and many exciting new adventures. We finalized our Editorial Calendar, welcomed new contributors and advertising partners, and made plans for new editions of our digital magazines.

You know how rest of this story progresses, right?

The world looked much different just a few short months ago. We could have never imagined, in our wildest dreams, our current reality. Words which fill our minds and the media airwaves are: unprecedented, fearful, stressful, and overwhelming.

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Our mission has always been to establish ourselves as the premiere and trusted source of trends sure to impact the way we live, dream, and distinguish our world. When you open Teen InFluential, InFluential InFluential or Spanish InFluential, we hope you experience, even if just for a short period of time, a sense of serenity. We want you to know we have great empathy for what you might be feeling, as our experiences are similar. Until such time we move away from the current chaos, we hope you’ll remain vigilant and hopeful. We hope Teen InFluential will continue to be one of the welcome distractions from the daily cares of life.

Most Fondly,

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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ENTERTAINMENT kPHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF

GIRL POW-R

JUNO AWARD-NOMINATED TEEN SUPERGROUP

GIRL POW-R

LEADING FANS TO HELP THOSE IN NEED DURING COVID-19 JUNO Award-nominated and chart-topping all-girl pop band Girl Pow-R are mobilizing the masses via mobile phones to, quite simply, help in any way they can in this newly uncertain time.

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everaging the power of social media in a time of increased social distancing, Girl Pow-R continues to embody their core mission of banding together and uplifting those in their community, no matter the circumstances.

“We’re experiencing this quickly-changing and challenging time alongside other young people across Canada and the world,” the members of Girl Pow-R say. “We can only imagine how others feel watching the news, and we know first-hand what it’s like to sit at home and want to do something to help.”

“As a band, Girl Pow-R wants to continue to do our part and share ideas on how everyone can be a ‘helper’ to those who need support right now.”

In the past, Girl Pow-R have helped contribute to charities who work on behalf of anti-war and anti-violence, SickKids Hospital, the Toronto Humane Society and SPCA, the Give and Restore Hope Children’s Charity, WE Movement, Food4Kids, antibullying, and raising awareness for the occurrence of strokes in minors — a scenario that personally afflicted Girl Pow-R member Maya during a dance class. With members ranging in age from 11 - 17, Girl Pow-R’s greatest strength lies in the diversity in their ages, backgrounds and life experiences. The universal things that join them together, however, are dynamic skill sets and a shared mission of empowerment among young women in the world today.

Those familiar with Girl Pow-R and their management team, led by Canyon Entertainment Group’s Dawn Van Dam, won’t be surprised the girls are rolling up their sleeves to assist where they can amidst the global outbreak of COVID-19; passionately advocating for social causes close to their hearts is an integral part of who Girl Pow-R are, both as individuals, a band, and a growing movement.

In continuing their inspirational mission of spreading confidence and kindness, Girl Pow-R — as seen on Global News, CBC, CBC Kids News, The Canadian Press, CTV, YTV, TVO Kids, CityTV, eTalk Canada, Girls’ Life, Tiger Beat, J-14, Celeb Secrets, Fresh 95.3 and more — saw their debut album This Is Us not only receive a 2020 JUNO Award nomination for Children’s Album of the Year, but encourage over a million girls to stay confident in their individuality and avoid the pitfalls of peer pressure and online influence in today’s hyper-digital age.

Check out their daily videos and posts with the #GirlPowRment hashtag on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, with suggestions and tips about everything from the ‘Bear Hunt Game’ to ‘Caremongering’.

The album’s title track “This Is Us” debuted on the iTunes Canada Children’s chart at #2 and #15 in the U.S. and landed during summer featuring back-to-back(to-back) Canadian and U.S. tour stops. l

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ENTERTAINMENT

JUNO AWARD-NOMINATED TEEN SUPERGROUP

GIRL POW-R

LEADING FANS TO HELP THOSE IN NEED DURING COVID-19 MAY-JUNE 2020 TEEN

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GLORIA BARRON PRIZE FOR YOUNG HEROES –NATIONAL AWARD INSPIRES TODAY’S YOUTH TO HELP PEOPLE AND THE PLANET–

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he most recent Barron Prize winners include those who are helping seniors, children, the hungry and the homeless in their communities and beyond. In addition, many of the young heroes are working hard to raise awareness and funds for important environmental issues such as sustainability, endangered species, climate change, and pollution. “These outstanding young people renew our hope for the world,” says T. A. Barron. “By honoring these kids who are making a positive difference, we hope to inspire many others.”

The 2019 Gloria Barron Prize for Young Heroes winners are:

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Addison Barrett, age 11, of Maryland Who founded Gorilla Heroes to raise awareness and funds to protect endangered mountain gorillas. She has helped raise more than $7,000 for the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund and The Ellen Fund by selling homemade cookies and lemonade and hosting her annual Gorilla Gala.

Adom Appiah, age 15, of South Carolina, Who founded Ball4Good, a non-profit that supports communities through sports, including an annual Celebrity Basketball Game.

His group has raised more than $70,000 for sixteen local non-profits that serve children.

Anna Du, age 13, of Massachusetts, Who has invented a Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) that detects microplastics on the ocean floor. She has also written a children’s book, Microplastics and Me, and has raised more than $7,000 to distribute it free to children and libraries in high-need communities.

The Gloria Barron Prize for Young Heroes is an award that celebrates inspiring, public-spirited young people from across the U.S. and Canada.

Established in 2001 by author T. A. Barron, the Barron Prize annually honors 25 outstanding young leaders ages 8 to 18 who have made a significant positive difference to people and the environment.

Fifteen top winners each receive $10,000 to support their service work or higher education.

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Garyk Brixi, a

Who has worked for five years to food for starving children in dev with an NGO to begin pro

Charlie Abrams and Jeremy Clark, ages 15 and 14, of Oregon Who co-founded Affected Generation, a youth-led non-profit working to fight climate change and to help implement effective climate policy, including Oregon’s Clean Energy Jobs bill.

Grace Callwood, ag

Who founded We Cancerve, for youth to help other children who A cancer survivor, Grace has don and products to children’s agencie summer day c

Emma Angeletti, age 17, of Florida Who co-founded back2earth, a non-profit that reduces the amount of food waste in landfills by providing a free, weekly household composting service to more than 100 families in Miami.

Jamie Margolin, age

Who founded Zero Hour, a non-pro movement. Her 2018 Youth Climate M Washington, D.C. and inspired 25 16

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FEATURES

age 18, of Maryland

o develop better life-saving relief veloping countries. He is teaming oducing his food in Malawi.

Joseph Goldstein, age 18, of Illinois Who founded Kids for the Boundary Waters to lead young people in protecting the Boundary Waters from sulfide-ore copper mines proposed along the wilderness edge that would cause irreparable damage.

ge 14, of Maryland

a non-profit that creates ways o are homeless, sick, and in foster care. nated more than $65,000 in grants es and has created a free month-long camp for kids.

Katherine McPhie and Milan Narula, ages 17 and 16, of California Who co-founded Open Sesame Coding for Kids and have taught computer coding skills to more than 100 children living in homeless and domestic violence shelters.

e 17, of Washington

ofit international youth climate justice March brought hundreds of youth to sister marches around the world.

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Pearl Daskam an age 16, of

Who created Meating the Need for youth-raised food to low-income fam they have raised and donated 10,00 quantities of milk and eggs

Maanasa Mendu, age 16, of Ohio Who invented HARVEST, an inexpensive and globally applicable renewable energy device. It is made primarily of recycled materials costing less than $5.00 and can power a 15-watt LED bulb.

Ruby Kate Chitsey, a

Who founded Three Wishes for Ruby’s in nursing homes. She asks residents w requests, returning with basics like sho

Neil Deshmukh, age 16, of Pennsylvania Who has created an app called PlantumAI to help farmers in developing countries easily identify and treat crop disease, allowing them to maximize yields and reduce their need for toxic pesticides.

Will and Matth ages 14 and 11, o

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Who co-founded the Blue F the Blue-Footed Booby. The brothers blue socks to raise more than $80,000 decline in the Ga

nd Addy Battel, f Michigan

r Our Village to provide high-quality, milies. With the help of nearly 20 peers, 00 pounds of meat, along with huge s, to their local food pantry.

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FEATURES

The 2020 awards will mark the 20th anniversary of the Barron Prize. As part of the 20th anniversary celebration, the Barron Prize will present the Young Heroes Summit in October, bringing together past winners to share their experiences and inspire today’s youth. Honoring the spirit of the Barron Prize, the Young Heroes Summit will commemorate the great work of young people by offering a free public event and series of panel discussions focused on humanitarian work, environmental change, and STEM projects. The two-day summit will take place in Boulder, CO from October 1-2 and will be accessible to schools across the country via Livestream.

age 11, of Arkansas

s Residents to support the elderly living what they wish for and then fills their oes that fit, toothpaste, and fresh fruit.

Since its inception, the Barron Prize has honored nearly 500 young heroes and has won the support of Girl Scouts of the USA, Jane Goodall’s Roots & Shoots, and the National Youth Leadership Council, among other organizations. For more information, please visit www.barronprize.org. l

hew Gladstone, of Massachusetts

Feet Foundation to help save s have sold over 10,000 pairs of bright 0 to fund research to study the bird’s alapagos Islands.

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FASHION & STYLE

HELLO

HealthyCurls! kPHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF MY SOIGNE

Experience Defined, Flax Seed Gel – This isn’t your Shiny Curls with average flax seed gel. Unlike other My Soigne’s flaxseed gels, this one does not need to be refrigerated and can last up to Natural Curly Hair a year on your bathroom shelf once Products opened. In addition to flaxseed gel, it contains other nourishing ingredients like vitamin E oil and aloe vera.

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ith everyone in shelter-in and summer coming up, ladies are embracing their natural hair. For women with curly hair, My Soigne offers all-natural products to help keep you curls healthy and beautiful.

Hair Cream – This whipped hair cream is a moisturizing and hydrating blend of shea butter, castor oil, jojoba oil, and chia seed oil. It’s versatility s erves it well to a variety of hair types.

Use it as a rinse-out or leave-in conditioner. For a lighter product, it can be diluted with water.

Hair Cleanser – This lather free cleanser will clean your scalp with apple cider vinegar, turmeric, and tea tree oil; moisturize with jojoba oil and aloe vera juice; exfoliate with jojoba beads; and give you that tingly feeling with a hint of peppermint oil.

Use up to three times a week in place of shampoo and successfully get rid of unwanted build-up.

No parabens, silicones, sulfates, drying alcohols, or synthetic fragrance oils are used in the making of these products.

Vegan, gluten free, and tested only on consenting friends and family. l

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FASHION & STYLE

HELLO

HealthyCurls!

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The Hottest Spring and Summer Trends for Your

WardrobeAre Handmade

Ever wonder how you can add world-inspired staples to your closet without the travel price tag? Look to The Fox and the Mermaid for bohemian-inspired clothing, accessories and household goods that are a mix of handcrafted, one-of-a-kind pieces made with vintage textiles and hand block printed fabrics made using 2000 year-old artisan techniques with little to no carbon footprint. kPHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF THE FOX AND THE MERMAID 24 TEEN

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he culturally diverse brand focuses mainly on textiles from India and Guatemala. According to The Fox and the Mermaid founder, Brianna Bruderlin, all products have a unique history and a meaningful connection to the past which in turn makes them so much more than just another bag or dress, they are timeless, forever pieces with a soul.

From Guatemala, indulge in handwoven bags and accessories created

by Mayan artisans on backstrap looms.

From India, the brand offers clothing and accessories that have been hand block printed with vibrant, natural pigments made from fruit, plants, bark, vegetables and leaves rather than harsh chemicals.

The brand also features a range of clothing and accessories made with antique tribal textiles and re-purposed vintage silk sarees.

Creations are a mix of ethically sourced textiles from around the globe and custom-made bohemian clothing and accessories designed by Brianna in Venice, California.

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Artisan Embroidered Straps – For the items you use every day, add a pop of color as you cherish the character of these hand-woven leather or vegan leather straps for handbags, backpacks, guitars, and cameras. These fair-trade pieces come from the artisans of Guatemala and no two are the same.

The Aahana Collection – Experience beautiful, soft Indian cotton with prints made using carved wood blocks that have been dipped in natural pigments and hand stamped onto the fabric.

If you love sustainable clothing, this collection leaves a light carbon footprint you’ll appreciate.

For fans of couture fashion, these dresses are made by highly skilled artisans who pass the trade down from generation to generation.

The Indah Collection – Made in Bali, this collection boasts the easy, breezy bohemian styles your summer wardrobe needs. Trendy pieces include dresses, skirts, crop tops, jumpsuits, and kimonos. l

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The Hottest Spring and Summer Trends for Your

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BuildingCreditat18: TIPS FOR A SOLID FINANCIAL FOUNDATION

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ow an official adult, it’s time to begin a new chapter that sets the foundation for the rest of their life, including their financial wellness.

“How you manage your money today will impact your financial future because at 18, you’re now building a credit history that matters for many years to come,” Jeff Richardson, head of Marketing and Communications at VantageScore Solutions. “Getting bank accounts, using credit wisely and taking out loans thoughtfully all are important aspects of building and maintaining a good credit report and score.”

Richardson recommends young adults take these five steps to start building a positive credit history:

Check Your Credit Score for Free VantageScore credit scores were introduced in 2006 and the credit scoring model was initially developed by the three nationally recognized credit reporting companies, Equifax, Experian and TransUnion. Over 12.35

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When a young person turns 18, it’s an exciting time full of possibilities.

Being able to vote and no longer adhering to a curfew is just the beginning. billion VantageScore credit scores were used between July 2018 and June 2019 alone. Know your credit score, manage it well and take steps to improve it. Visit your.vantagescore.com/free to learn where you can go to get your credit score at no cost.

Pay Bills on Time Every Time Paying bills on time or even ahead of time is one of the best things you can do to build a positive credit report and raise your credit score. Find a system for managing your bills and expenses that works well for you. Some people keep a spreadsheet, others use online programs or digital apps. In fact, your current bank may offer online bill pay options

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FINANCE so that you can set up your payments automatically (just make sure you always have enough in your account so that you don’t bounce payments). Discover what works best for you to ensure that you always pay bills before the due date.

Budget and Create an Emergency Fund Start a viable budget by analyzing wants versus needs for each month.

When creating a budget, you should

also make sure to use your net income after taxes rather than your gross income before taxes so that you will get a realistic idea of what you can afford and where you should make cuts.

Furthermore, if you don’t already have a savings account, consider opening one up. While a savings account won’t show up on your credit report, it does provide you with a simple way to save in case of an emergency. That way if you’re hit with an unexpected bill, you will still be

able to pay it on time, and that timely payment can protect your credit report and score.

Take Out Loans Wisely Taking out a loan and paying monthly installments diligently helps build good credit. However, you shouldn’t take out more than the amount you need or can afford. For example, if you need to get a car loan, consider a moderate car that does the job rather than an expensive upscale one that will take much longer to pay off. Likewise, school loans are a necessity for many people. While you likely won’t have to start making payments on these loans until after graduation, you should try to keep student loan debt at a minimum. Take out what you need for tuition and associated school expenses, rather than borrowing additional amounts for things like vacations. That way you will have a smaller loan to pay off when you start working so you never have to stress about making a payment on time.

Every other financial transaction while you are in college is an additional chance to build and enhance your credit history and you should treat them as such. Pay your bills on time, especially those with your name on them, such as utilities.

“Smart steps at 18 can help you achieve a great credit score and set you up with a lifetime of good financial habits,” says Richardson. “Even if you’re older than 18, there’s no better time than the present to make wise financial decisions that will help you build a credit history that will benefit you long term.” (BPT) l

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Teen SPRING CLEAN

YourDietWith

5FridgeEssentials

Recipe: Sweet Potato Bowl

Eggs

Spring cleaning is a tradition that often includes dusting, mopping, decluttering, and organizing homes for a fresh start.

Many families may be cooking more while home right now, so this is a great opportunity to refresh your kitchen staples by filling the fridge with foods that support a healthy diet.

Eggs are an important source of essential vitamins and nutrients, but not all eggs are created equal. Eggland’s Best (EB) eggs offer superior nutrition compared to ordinary eggs at the grocery store, such as 25% less saturated fat, more than double the omega3s, 10 times more vitamin E and six times more vitamin D. EB eggs also contain more than double the vitamin B12 compared to other eggs, which may help maintain energy levels while giving your house a spring makeover. By simply incorporating EB eggs into your family recipes, you can easily boost the nutrition of your favorite meals.

Registered Dietitian and Nutritionist Dawn Jackson Blatner shares her top five fridge essentials to boost overall health and wellness:

Leafy Greens Leafy greens are a powerhouse of nutrients like vitamins A and C, potassium, calcium, and iron. They’re great for soothing chronic inflammation and increasing energy levels naturally. Some tasty and versatile leafy greens to add to your grocery list include spinach, arugula, kale, chard, and watercress. You can use these as a salad base, add to sandwiches or wraps, create tasty side dishes or incorporate a handful to your favorite meal to add supercharged nutrition.

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Greek Yogurt Yogurt is a trending health food, but some yogurts offer greater health benefits than others. Reach for plain Greek yogurt on your next trip down the dairy aisle because it has twice the protein and less sugar than regular yogurt. Not to mention, its thick, creamy consistency may help you feel fuller longer, reducing the likelihood of extra snacking.

Create your own parfait by choosing plain yogurt and add natural sweetness with fresh fruit or a drizzle of honey. Plain yogurt

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also makes a great base for healthier dressings and other tasty recipes.

Oats Fiber is an essential part of any diet because it fills you up, helping you to feel more satisfied throughout the day.

Although not technically stored in the fridge, oats are a fiber superstar and a must-have for every kitchen because they offer an affordable and accessible way to get a healthy dose of daily fiber. For example, when eaten as part of a balanced breakfast, oats help curb cravings and keep you feeling satisfied until lunch time.

For a simple breakfast on-the-go, blend oats into your favorite smoothie.

Berries All berries are rich with antioxidants that keep your heart healthy and your brain sharp. Berries add great flavor to breakfast foods, salads and more, not to mention snacking on a few throughout the day is a great way to naturally satisfy a sweet tooth. Frozen berries are a wonderful alternative when fresh aren’t available, providing similar health benefits. You can mix

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FOOD & BEVERAGE into a smoothie, yogurt, or thaw for baking. To celebrate your fridge makeover, explore new recipes featuring these nutritious ingredients, such as this Eggland’s Best recipe for Sweet Potato Bowls.

Sweet Potato Bowl Ingredients: 2 Eggland’s Best Eggs (large), poached 1 large sweet potato 2 teaspoons olive oil, separated salt and pepper 1 cup ground sausage 1/2 cup salsa 1 avocado, diced

Directions: Heat 1 teaspoon of olive oil in a medium pan over med/high heat and brown the ground sausage.

While the sausage cooks, fill a large pot with a few inches of water and place over medium/high heat until it just starts to simmer.

Crack eggs individually into a ramekin or cup and create a gentle whirlpool in the water.

Slowly pour the eggs one by one into the water and leave to cook for three minutes.

Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towel. While the eggs poach, spiralize the sweet potato using a spiralizer.

Heat the other teaspoon of the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add in the sweet potato noodles and cook until they just begin to soften, about 5-7 minutes.

Season with salt and pepper. Transfer the cooked sweet potato noodles into a large bowl. Drain the ground sausage and add to the sweet potato noodles.

Toss with 1/2 cup of the salsa. Divide the noodles and sausage between two bowls, top each with diced avocado and a poached egg! (BPT) l

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5 WAYS TO MAXIMIZE GROCERIES AND MINIMIZE WASTE Spending more time in the kitchen means learning the importance of not only keeping food fresh for weeks at a time, but also minimizing waste for fewer trips to the grocery store.

Food waste also impacts our wallets. In fact, a recent Bosch home appliances survey conducted

by OnePoll found that the average American tosses $2,798 in spoiled food a year.

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hether aiming to reduce waste, save money or just find new ways get creative in the kitchen, these five tips will help you make the most out of your ingredients while saving all kinds of dough.

1. Take Inventory

And Get Organized

Seventy-seven percent of Americans attribute tossed food to forgetting they are in the refrigerator or losing them amongst the clutter. Further, 65 percent agree waste is due to lack of organization or space in the fridge, with one in four admitting their refrigerator is unorganized.

When it comes to refrigerator and pantry organization, being able to see your items is half the battle.

The first step when organizing your pantry is to remove items, wipe surfaces clean and take inventory. Then, use clear, stackable containers to repack loose items or tough-to-store packages, such as oatmeal, condiment packets, nuts or grains.

When it comes to the refrigerator, use the first in, first out method as well as organizational features like split or adjustable shelving to your advantage.

Bosch’s latest refrigeration collection has a clever innovation called the FlexBar that is specifically designed to keep items in view, so eggs and small jars don’t get lost or buried in the back.

The collection also features thoughtful organization solutions like the option to have a dedicated VitaFreshPro middle drawer that balances temperature and humidity at the touch of a button, a three-tiered freezer system and more to make it easier to see and store foods.

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FEATURES

2. Shop For A Variety

To avoid overstocking, start by making a list. In addition to fresh fruit, vegetables and other necessities, add versatile nonperishables, proteins and starches. Fermented and pickled foods like kimchi, sauerkraut and tempeh boost your immune system, while also lasting months and adding a flavorful punch to dishes.

Beans, seeds, alternative milks and oats, plus a range of spices can also help add variety to your meals.

Stems and veggie ends can be boiled down into a stock for use in other recipes, while leaves from fresh radishes, beets and carrots can be sautéed for a healthy side dish or to freshen up a pasta dish.

Connect app is a great way to find recipe inspiration. Partners like Chefling can even provide pantry management and helpful meal suggestions based on what you have with the simple scan of a grocery receipt.

Beyond getting creative with every inch of your ingredients, home appliance manufacturers like Bosch have developed technologies like the FarmFresh System in its new French door bottom mount refrigerator collection to keep

Instead of running to the store for an ingredient, search your inventory for replacements. For example, if you are baking and run out of butter, replace it with coconut oil or apple sauce. You can substitute unsweetened yogurt for mayo, sour cream or crème fraiche. As well, lemon juice, lime juice, vinegar and white wine are interchangeable in recipes.

5. Get Friendly

With Your Freezer

Fifty-two percent of Americans agree they toss out food because it will spoil before they have a chance to eat it. Freezing foods is a great way to preserve ingredients at peak freshness and get more value when buying in bulk. When freezing meat, which will last three to four months in the freezer, wrap singular portions in plastic before placing in a resealable bag. Meat will thaw faster, and you will avoid cooking more than you need.

3. Use The

“Stem To Peel” Method

The average American wastes 103 pounds of spoiled food from their refrigerator per year. One way to maximize produce is to repurpose commonly discarded parts. Peels can be left on almost all organic veggies for added flavor, texture and a boost of fiber. Citrus peels can be used in anything from baked goods to cocktails for added acidity and spice.

4. Be Creative

Blanching vegetables before freezing helps maintain color and flavor. Frozen veggies, berries and cooked grains keep for two to three months in the freezer, while soup and bread will last three to six months.

Just be sure to label all items with the date and prioritize the first in, first out rule.

Now is the perfect time to experiment with new recipes, but maximizing ingredients means starting with what you have.

Prioritize items that are going to spoil soon and build a recipe from there. The Home

From the pantry to the refrigerator and freezer, these tips will help you maximize all your ingredients for less food wasted while also getting more creative and organized in the kitchen than ever. (BPT) l

food fresh for longer, so your favorite perishables will be optimally stored for less waste.

With What You Have

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51

Teen EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO BOOST YOUR

Self-CareRoutine

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HEALTH & WELLNESS When was the last time you treated yourself so that you could feel good inside and out?

N

ow is the perfect time to show some serious TLC to your skin, nails, and hair to give yourself the ultimate full-body pampering session.

Try these ideas for enhancing your selfcare routine:

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 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 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.

Cleanse Your Way

Instagram-Worthy Manicure Give yourself a mani at home. 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.

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 taking a relaxing shower. 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.

As you enjoy your self-care prep for a cozy movie night or date night, 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.

On days where you may not have time for a shower, grab a Summer’s Eve(R) Cleansing Cloth - perfect post workout or just for a fresh pick-me-up.

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

Set The Mood For A Night In

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Teen HOW YOU CAN HELP

ChildreninPoverty DuringthePandemic WITHOUT LEAVING HOME

While most of the world has hit pause around the Red Nose in support of those on daily life, kindness and giving can be in need during a critical time, even while remaining physically distant. considered essential services.

Socio-economic consequences Get Your Digital Red Nose On of the COVID-19 health pandemic Now through May 30, when you donate a minimum of $1 at Walgreens.com/ are challenging families across the globe, as RedNoseDay, your donation will unlock schools have closed, after-school a digital Red Nose filter to share proudly meal programs have paused, businesses on Facebook, Instagram and Snapchat. have shut down, and families are feeling Invite your friends and family to join you, sparking a wave of online donations greater strain on finances. and keeping the Red Nose spirit alive by

C

hildren living in poverty are especially vulnerable, needing the support of nonprofit organizations and community assistance now more than ever. Providing this support has always been the mission of Red Nose Day - the annual fundraising campaign encouraging Americans to aid organizations working to end child poverty through the purchase of Red Noses at Walgreens. This year the campaign is back, but instead of

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selling the iconic Red Nose in Walgreens stores, the retailer created a way to engage in kindness and giving from the safety of your home to support children in need and those affected by COVID-19.

Due to public health concerns and the need for social distancing because of the COVID-19 outbreak, Walgreens is bringing Red Nose Day digital. The online shift offers a way for everyone to rally

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spreading virtual joy. You can feel good knowing that 100% of funds raised will benefit Red Nose Day partner organizations that help keep kids safe, healthy and educated.

How It Helps The efforts of the Red Nose Day campaign are especially crucial during this year of economic upheaval and health crisis. Your donations provide funds for nutritious meals, essential medicine,

influential-magazine.com

HEALTH & WELLNESS clean water, education-based services and other vital aid to help children in America and around the world. Grantee partner recipients of the Red Nose Day Fund include: Boys & Girls Clubs of America, which provide safe places for children to learn and play after school Children’s Health Fund, which brings essential medical services to underserved children Feeding America, the hunger relief organization Save the Children, which provides critical early childhood programs

• • • •

•

City Year, which provides the social, emotional and academic skills to young adults in low-income households to succeed in school and life Covenant House, which provides housing and support to youth facing homelessness International Rescue Committee, a global humanitarian aid organization Laureus Sport for Good, which uses the power of sport to end violence, discrimination and disadvantage for young people UnidosUS, which advocates for Latinos in civic engagement, education, health and housing

• • • •

•

The Global Fund, a partnership to accelerate the end of AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria

Join The Cause You can join the celebration when stars unite for a world of good during the Red Nose Day TV Special, Thursday, May 21, at 8/7c on NBC.

Want to get your own Red Nose on and get involved? Visit walgreens.com/ RedNoseDay to learn more. (BPT) l

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Teen LIFE WITH A

RARE, CHRONIC, AND ‘INVISIBLE’ ILLNESS

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A

HP is characterized by potentially life-threatening attacks and for some, chronic symptoms that negatively impact quality of life. Severe, unexplained abdominal pain is the most common symptom, occurring in more than 90% of people who experience AHP attacks. Patients with AHP can also experience nausea, vomiting, seizures and anxiety, as well as pain in other parts of the body such as the limbs, back or chest. These nonspecific symptoms are often associated with more common conditions, leading to misdiagnosis and/

or delays in diagnosis for up to 15 years.

An estimated 5,000 patients in the U.S. and Europe are currently diagnosed with AHP and experience one or more attacks each year and, although their individual experiences are unique, their diagnostic journeys and daily lives with AHP are marked by similar challenges.

Growing up, Nathan suffered from abdominal pain, fatigue, and recurrent vomiting, leaving him unable to participate in school activities like gym class alongside his friends. He also experienced light

Not all diseases leave visible marks on patients; “invisible” symptoms, like pain, may be hard for others to understand and difficult for doctors to explain with a diagnosis. As a result, patients can experience intense stigma, judgment and doubt from their communities while they desperately seek support. A new platform, “Voices of AHP,” aims to break down this stigma by sharing candid stories from people living with acute hepatic porphyria (AHP), a family of rare, genetic diseases, to empower people living with the disease and encourage anyone who may be undiagnosed to recognize the symptoms and discuss them with their doctors.

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sensitivity, which aggravated his symptoms and caused him to stay secluded indoors. As his symptoms persisted, he desperately sought an explanation - he traveled across state lines to be tested for different diseases, underwent multiple unnecessary surgeries and was even diagnosed with a mental illness when doctors couldn’t determine the physical cause of his pain. After years of searching, and thanks to the partnership of a committed and supportive doctor, Nathan was finally diagnosed with hereditary coproporphyria (HCP), a type of AHP, at 31 years old.

Despite the difficulties associated with his rare disease, receiving a diagnosis set him on a path to more effectively manage his attacks and symptoms. “I was so relieved to finally be able to name my condition. It changed my life,” says Nathan.

Megan recalls a similar feeling when she received her AHP diagnosis after years of fighting to find an explanation for her attacks, which she describes as “the most painful thing I’ve ever endured - not just physically, but also mentally and emotionally.”

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examined her entire medical history and eventually tested her for AHP. Receiving a diagnosis was validating, giving her the support and tools to manage AHP and regain some control in her life.

According to Megan, feelings of loneliness still occur, “because nobody else around me can truly empathize with my particular mix of symptoms.” But being able to share her experience with other patients has made her journey “worth it.”

From the time she began experiencing symptoms in her teens, Megan saw at least two dozen specialists and received multiple misdiagnoses, including multiple sclerosis and endometriosis.

The longer she went without answers, the more people in her community doubted her - leaving her feeling even more alone. Refusing to give up, she and her mother found a doctor who

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Today, Nathan and Megan avoid triggers for attacks and manage their symptoms. They have found strength in connecting with other people living with AHP and use their stories to advocate and raise awareness of AHP and the power of perseverance in living with this rare disease.

To learn more about Nathan and Megan’s stories as part of the “Voices of AHP” video series, and to access educational resources about the symptoms and management of AHP, visit www.

PinpointAHP.com. (BPT) A message from Alnylam Pharmaceuticals. l

Teen AROUSING ADMIRATION:

TheCharm ofHummingbirds

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influential-magazine.com

LIFESTYLE Well, actually, it’s both … the charm of hummingbirds is most certainly apropos and “a charm” of hummingbirds is actually factual.

Y

ep, that’s right, the collective noun for these unique creatures - just like a gaggle of geese or a flock of birds, is a charm of hummingbirds.

Since the definition of the noun ‘charm’ is “the power of giving delight or arousing admiration,” one doesn’t need to be a wordsmith to see how right that is.

Hummingbirds Are Charming And there are over 330 varieties of the species, Trochilidae, which is their biological family name and they’re found in the Western Hemisphere. When one sees a hummingbird, it’s a stunning, stop-in-yourtracks sight. Their brilliant throat color is a result of the iridescence in the arrangement of their feathers, not color pigment. Light level, moisture, angle of viewing, and other factors all influence just how bright and colorful their throats may appear.

Perhaps you’ve heard them, too - the name hummingbird comes from the buzzing sound of their fast-flapping wings.

Hummers are migrant birds, so although many stay close to the Equator, lots of varieties travel this time of year, so there may be a ‘charm’ coming to your backyard soon. If you have the desire to see one up

close or are curious about how to attract them to your yard, the folks at Cole’s Wild Bird Feed Co have got you covered. First, they figured out the engineering of an elegant, deceptively simple, easy-to-use (and easy-to-clean) feeder. The patented Hummer High Rise has a clever design that offers a stress-free position for your charming guests to get their fill, a fantastic 360-degree vista, all the while keeping other unwanted creatures at bay.

For example, there’s an ant moat that stops the armies of industrious workers who’d love to get some sweet nectar, from beating a path to the liquid food. The genius is, it’s an actual moat, with nothing but H2O keeping the ants at bay, so while it does its job, it doesn’t do harm. Nice.

A Charm Magnet The second definition for the noun ‘charm’ is a small ornament worn on a necklace or bracelet. Hummingbirds weigh on average the same as a nickel, so while you’ll want to wear a replica from the jewelers, Hummers can be your own garden’s jewelry all season long.

And in return for their arousing your admiration, they’ll feed on those annoying garden insects and pests.

For their small size, hummers eat a lot.

They are voracious eaters, feeding on mosquitos, gnats, spiders, aphids and other six-legged creepy crawlers. But, besides pests for protein, their primary ‘food group’ is nectar, which they get in by flitting from flower to flower and using their long beaks and equally long tongues to get their fill. All that flitting is exhausting. Since hummingbirds drink up to half their body weight a day of nectar

you can help them out by keeping your High Rise fully stocked, for a one-stop fill of their favorite nectar treat.

Let’s not leave out the definition of the verb, “charm,” which is to “delight greatly.” If you want these Disney-esque caricatures to delight you on a regular basis with their wonder - and bring their distinctive song to your yard - there is something you can buy: the creme-de la creme of what these charmers crave: Nature’s Garden from Cole’s.

By identifying and harnessing the nutrients of the hummer’s favorite wildflowers, and tapping their vast store of wild bird knowhow, Cole’s has created the next-bestthing to actual flower nectar - a proprietary formula that’s far and away a cut above your ‘garden-variety’ sugar water. Nature’s Garden is a healthy, all-natural alternative to homemade syrup, no mixing and no boiling required. It comes in an eco-friendly soft pouch; just shake and pour. You’ll be delighted with how easy it is to keep your hummer feeder filled and overjoyed at seeing hummers frequent your yard. Your neighborhood hummingbirds will love it, so they’ll keep coming back.

A brief postscript: a natural predator to the hummingbird is the praying mantis.

Despite their equally small size and saintly appearance, they feed on our fascinating feathered friends and are a real threat (and a protected species), so if you find a mantis hanging around your High Rise, take care to evict it gently, to a lower piece of real estate and keep hummers safe.

For more product information, watch this. (NewsUSA) l

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Feature-RichDogPa ARE COMING TO TOWNS ACROSS AMERICA

T

oday, it’s rare and often illegal to let a dog roam off-leash. Even large parks usually have leash laws. At the same time, dog ownership is growing.

According to the American Pet Products Association, there are over 60 million US households with at least one dog.

And those dog owners are increasingly looking for places to let their dogs run and socialize off-leash.

Some communities have solved this by creating off-leash areas such as fenced-in parks where people can let Spot run free.

According to the Association of Pet Dog Trainers, a good dog park has a few essential features. The basics are bags and trash cans for cleaning up after dogs, fresh drinking water, and shade for cooling down.

Ideally, dog parks would include separate entrance and exit gates, allowing everyone to comeand go with not only ease, but safety. And a dual-gate system would help eliminate dogs escaping through any open gate

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Parks

Lassie used to run free throughout the town, solving problems and rescuing kids in trouble.

while another dog is entering or leaving through it. While those are the basics, dog parks are popping up around the country with additional fun features to keep canines safe and happy.

Beau’s Dream Dog Park in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania has a tennis ball tree that launches balls for large dogs.

Pilgrim Dog Park in Provincetown, Massachusetts has pet-friendly sculptu-

res designed by local artists that dogs can play on.

Catalyst Experiential is currently designing the Bucks County Dog Park, which will be one of the most featureladen in the country. The entrance is designed to resemble the two halves of a large, broken dog biscuit. Once they pass through the “dog biscuit” entrance, dogs will find water features, an agility station, ample shade, and even dogwash facilities inside their park. It’s like Disney for dogs!

The dog park is one of many projects that Catalyst Experiential is bringing to communities as a part of their vision to integrate community and communication.

The “broken dog biscuit” entrance to the park features two displays that will enable local government, schools, organizations and businesses to speak directly to the communities they serve, including announcing local events, issuing safety messages, and other timely communications.

A dog lover and owner himself, Catalyst Experiential CEO Thaddeus Bartkowski explains that “while dog ownership has increased, rules and regulations restricting the ability of dogs to run free has unfortunately been on the rise as well.”

“What we hope to create is a place where dogs can get the off-leash exercise they deserve to enhance quality of life for both the dogs and their owners,” he says.

For more information about Catalyst Experiential, reach out here. (NewsUSA) l

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HOW TO

ManageStress

THROUGH

Music

With routines upturned and health concerns top of mind, many people are feeling an extra amount of stress these days, too much of which can be bad for one’s mental and physical health.

H

owever, music has many moodboosting, stress-relieving benefits. Here are four ways to incorporate more of it into your life without even leaving the house:

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• Too much time spent

• Social distancing

Allow music to provide a healthy distraction from digital devices. Carve out a block of time each day to practice your instrument.

Connect with fellow musicians from the comfort and safety at home by hosting a virtual jam session for the added stress-relieving benefits of socializing with friends, old and new.

• Get a fun, easy and most

• Expressing yourself

scrolling through social media can induce anxious feelings.

importantly, stress-free introduction to music-making with the right tools. By connecting a Casio keyboard with lighted keys to the Chordana Play App or using the app’s keyboard, beginners can gain a better understanding of music study. The app displays the music score and piano roll notation for built-in songs and MIDI files, allowing you to select which tracks to play with your left and right hands. With the ability to slow the tempo and transpose to a key that’s easier to play, you can practice at your own pace. Plus, a scoring system lets track your progress.

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doesn’t have to be antisocial.

creatively is one of the best tools for kicking stress to the curb and making music in no exception. Once you feel comfortable with the basics, you may feel empowered to write your own melodies or even develop them fully into songs.

In these unusual times, music can benefit your mood and mental health by serving as a valuable creative outlet, a means for practicing mindfulness and a great way to connect with others.

(StatePoint) l

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Teen HOW YOU CAN HELP PROTECT WILD

BirdsinYourY A

ccording to Spencer Schock, founder of WindowAlert, makers of bird-friendly products for homes, the following changes are easy to implement in order to create a safe harbor for wild birds:

• Plant native species: Planting native species on your property is one of the most impactful ways you can improve your local environment, as well as make your lawn and garden a healthy habitat for wild birds and other fauna. Native plant species provide birds with food and places to rest and nest.

Birds in turn, spread pollen and seeds, while acting as a natural pesticide.

Speaking of which, gardening organically will also go a long way to protecting the health and safety of feeding birds.

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• Make windows visible: Up to 1 billion birds die annually from striking windows in US, according to the American Bird Conservancy. The good news is that it’s relatively easy and affordable to prevent your home from being part of the problem.

Special window decals that reflect ultraviolet sunlight, a wavelength of light noticeable to birds, have been proven to substantially reduce the likelihood of bird strikes. Giving the appearance of slightly frosted translucent glass but glowing like a stoplight for birds, those from WindowAlert feature a range of decorative patterns. To boost protection for birds, you can also apply a high-tech liquid called WindowAlert UV Liquid in between decals. More information, as

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well as useful application tips, can be found by visiting windowalert.com.

• Monitor cats: Monitor your cat’s time outdoors to ensure they are not terrorizing or hunting birds. An enclosed play area for your cat is the most effective way to keep birds in your yard safe from your furry companion’s natural instincts.

Good deeds start at home. This season do your part to help migrating bird populations reach their destinations safely. (StatePoint) l

kPHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF (C)

MIRCEAX / ISTOCK VIA GETTY IMAGES PLUS

Yard

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LIFESTYLE You may not think about it often, but wild birds use your lawn as a rest stop and place to call home.

As you spruce up your lawn and garden for the season, there are simple steps you can take to protect them and help them thrive.

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Teen STUCK INSIDE? FUN ENRICHMENT ACTIVITIES FOR

6

YouandYourPet

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influential-magazine.com

LIFESTYLE It’s no secret pets provide love, loyalty, and affection.

This is even more apparent now that you’re spending more time at home with them. In fact, according to the 2020 Purina Pet Ownership Survey, 94% of pet owners rely on their pet for emotional support, which is particularly important during times of uncertainty.

Y

ou may be tempted to spend your time snuggling with your furry friend, but there are a lot of fun new things you can do to engage your pet mentally and physically while you are at home together. Now is a great time to integrate enrichment activities that will keep both of you healthy, happy, and engaged.

“Setting and keeping a daily pet care routine to feed and walk your pet is important in alleviating stress for your pet. But scheduling play and incorporating enrichment activities into your pet’s day can also do wonders in keeping them happy and healthy,” says Alex Johnson, senior designer & pet enrichment specialist at Purina. Johnson shares her favorite at-home pet enrichment tips and ideas:

1

Making it new: It’s important to expand your pet’s world by providing opportunities for exploration. Try creating temporary indoor spaces to explore with boxes and paper bags or closing off a bedroom for a week to give your pet a space to rediscover. Hide some treats or favorite toys in the room before reopening it. Remember to keep toys in rotation to help create newness.

2

If you live in an apartment building, try throwing toys up or down steps in the stairwells or down hallways (if your landlord permits). If you’re spending more time watching TV, consider keeping a drawer or basket close by with some of your pet’s favorite toys, feather wands, tug-toys, balls, lasers, cat dancers, mechanical toys, and stuffed animals. These toys allow you to interact with your pet from the comfort of the couch.

5

Box of invisibility: Providing pets Treat time: While at home all day, it with safe spaces is a great way to give can become difficult to track when your pet gets a snack, so try adding a treat time to your schedule. Keep in mind, pets should get no more than 10% of their daily calories from treats. If you have kids, let them earn the reward of treating the pet that day by cleaning their room or finishing homework early.

3

One-on-one time: Having everyone constantly at home together can be stressful for pets. Provide opportunities for pets to have time on their own in addition to one-on-one time with family members. Spending 15 minutes together in a quiet space with no distractions can allow you to focus on engaging and bonding with your pet.

4

Exercise: When stuck inside, it’s important to find indoor activities to help pets burn energy. Try tug toys, laser pointer play, or playing tag or hide and seek.

them some downtime while still being close to everyone. For example, set out a box or sign in the family room, and when the cat is in the box or the dog is in the designated area, have the whole family pretend you can’t ‘see’ them, as if they were invisible. If the rule is followed, your pet will learn they can enjoy downtime in these spaces.

6

Sensory spot: If you have a cat, you know they love exploring textures and smells. Try getting a box or basket just as big as your cat loosely curled up, and place it in an out-of-the-way area, preferably near a safe heat source, vent or sunny window. Each week try putting in a new material such as a worn T-shirt, packaging paper or bits of textured fabric for them to explore.

To learn more about how to keep pets happy and healthy during quarantine, visit www.purina.com/homewithpets.

(BPT) l

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Teen HOW TO MAKE THE MOST OF

ONLINE LEARNING The flexibility to learn and earn a degree online allows students nationwide - from full-time employees to single parents and more - to achieve goals while managing family and life. Millions of students study online today, and those numbers are only increasing.

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FEATURES

W

hile online education provides students with a range of opportunities, it also can present challenges of learning in a new environment. Arizona State University staff and students who teach and study online offer their tips to help ensure your success.

Set Yourself Up For Success Before starting a degree program online, plan ahead. Give yourself space and time to study, as well as technology tools to do your best.

Give Yourself Space “A quiet workplace without any interruption from roommates or family is necessary for success in an online course,” advises the university’s director of student services, Joseph Chapman.

If your space isn’t completely quiet, noise-canceling headphones can help you focus. For shared spaces, let roommates or family know when you’re in study mode.

Check Your Tech Lauren Permoda, program coordinator for ASU Online, recommends using a desktop or laptop for all your studies, as a tablet or phone may not be the best tools for most tasks.

Familiarize yourself with your school’s learning platform and keep information about tech support handy. Ensure that you have multiple browsers (such as Chrome or Firefox) available, as one might work better for some programs than others.

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FEATURES Organize Your Time Time management is key to learning online, as you must take the initiative and be accountable for your own work, without instructors or parents looking over your shoulder. Master of Healthcare Innovation alumni Alicia Gillum said her first task at the beginning of each semester is to review every class syllabus and put due dates for papers, assignments and exams in her calendar - plus reminders a few days ahead of each due date.

“My advice is to start your assignments ahead of time,” says Gillum. “It’ll be so much less stressful than waiting until the last minute to do it.”

Miranda Gaona, who’s graduating with her Master’s in Digital Audience Strategy this month, says she treats every online class like an in-person class, scheduling it in her calendar as an important appointment. Gaona also sets reminders and alarms for study time - building in breaks for snacks and resting.

Communicate Stay connected to your instructors, classmates and school community. Take advantage of opportunities to collaborate, share insights and ask questions. Goana says she joins social media groups and participates in class discussions as much as possible.

rience. Master of Art in Sociology student Drew McDowell also recommends communicating regularly with your “offline” support network - your friends, family and/or coworkers who may need to be patient as you devote more time to completing your coursework.

Find The Right Program For You If you haven’t begun your studies, or you’re looking to transfer, find a program that meets your needs. Research universities that offer the degree or certification program you’re looking for online, and that are specifically designed and have dedicated resources to work with online learners.

Find an accredited degree program associated with a reputable university that offers the same curriculum and instructors as ground schools. U.S. News and World Report provides helpful rankings of universities and degree programs.

Look for a program offering a support system. For example, ASU’s 360 Life Services program is one of the first university programs to provide a comprehensive support system for online students. It offers clinical and personal care, as well as legal and financial assistance - plus success coaches who work with students to help them meet their academic goals.

Be Persistent Add your instructors’ virtual office hours in your calendar, so you know when they’ll be available. Email instructors or use class discussion boards to ask questions or offer comments. Instructors like seeing student engagement and participating will improve your overall expe-

When things get challenging, remember the reasons why you’re pursuing your education. Post verbal or visual reminders near your workspace to keep your goals top of mind. To learn about ASU Online’s more than 200 degree programs, visit ASUOnline.asu.edu. (BPT) l

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INFLUENTIAL SPOTLIGHT

Teen InFluential Spotlight

Featuring

Lalia Susini Lalia Susini has a recurring role on the hit ABC Thursday night drama, Station 19. Lalia plays the younger version of lead character Andy Herrera, whose present-day part is portrayed by Jaina Lee Ortiz. The series follows the lives of men and women who work in Seattle firehouse station 19.

Shonda Rhimes is the creator and producer of the hit series, which is a spinoff of the critically acclaimed drama, Grey’s Anatomy. It was renewed for a fourth season.

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tation 19 is Lalia’s first big break in the acting world. She appeared in the film shorts Not A Love Story and C’est La Vie. As her film credits blossom, Lalia’s background shows she is no stranger to stage life.

She was a musical performer alongside pop icons Gwen Stefani and U2. When she isn’t focusing on acting, Lalia keeps an active lifestyle track-training at UCLA, surfing

California beaches, and playing soccer with her club team. Some of her other talents include dancing, singing, and drumming. Lalia’s heritage is French and American, spending regular intervals of time in Paris.

You can follow Lalia on her adventures in acting on Instagram @lalia_susini, as well her siblings @susini_kids.

k PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF DEBI PATTON / SHANDREW PR

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Teen William Jackson: As we conduct this interview, the world is going through the COVID19 pandemic. What have you been doing while social distancing at home?

Lalia Susini: My school, West Hollywood Elementary School, is now doing zoom classes so I’m in class till around noon and then I’ve been doing dance classes and soccer workouts on zoom too! All my brothers, my mom, and I go jogging everyday too.

William: What were you working on when COVID19 shut down the film/TV/theatre industry?

Lalia: We just wrapped season 3 of Station 19 and then we were in the works with another project that started mid - April, but that’s on hold for now.

William: Who or what inspired you to become an actress?

Lalia: My older brother Maxou started before me and I just started tagging along with him to auditions. A Burger King commercial he was cast as a brother in already asked me if I wanted to audition to be the sister in the commercial. I was like four when we did that one and we did an Apple commercial together after Burger King. I was even in a French film my younger brother was the lead in, they needed classmates for a couple of scenes.

William: You’re currently on ABC’s Station 19, in the recurring role of the young Andy Herrera. What made you want to be part of this show?

Lalia: It’s so crazy, I had not watched it when I auditioned because it airs while I’m at soccer practice. The first day on the set I felt like I was already a part of the family. Jay and I had even auditioned before together as a father/daughter for a commercial, so we knew each other already.

William: What do you relate to most about Andy?

Lalia: Andy is a tough and so am I. I mean I love dressing up like Andy but I love roughing it up too. My mom thinks

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INFLUENTIAL SPOTLIGHT

I’m crazy considering I fractured both kneecaps and broke my foot in one year alone.

William: What is it like to play the younger version of a character the older version is played by someone else?

Lalia: If that’s what I look like when I grow up, I’ll be so excited! It’s fun dressing like they did in the 90s.

William: What was it like to work with Gwen Stefani & U2? How did that collaboration come about?

Lalia: So, the Gwen Stefani one my music coach Adam Timmerman oversaw finding all the musicians, so we auditioned directly with him. My brother, Maxou, played the piano in it even. The U2 one was an open call looking for a young drummer. I auditioned and then was hired.

They even let me bring in my own drums for the video.

That performance - XQ Super School Live - aired on almost every network at the same time, so it was REALLY cool.

William: What are some of your hobbies outside of acting?

Lalia: I play soccer for Tudela FC in Los Angeles and I’m on the No Limit Sports @ UCLA junior track team. Then, when I have time I LOVE to surf and play tennis. I recently surf modeled for the new American Girl doll, Joss too!

Does making TikTok videos count too?

William: What are some goals you hope to achieve in your career?

Lalia: Right now, I just want to keep working on awesome sets like Station 19. I’m usually the only kid on set at Station 19 so it’s fun to sneak into the snack room and go to school on set.

William: What is something you’d like my readers to know about you we didn’t get to cover in this interview?

Lalia: I have three brothers; I have dual citizenship with France and America, and I’m going to middle school next year. l

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INFLUENTIAL SPOTLIGHT

Teen InFluential Spotlight

Featuring

Lalia Susini MAY / JUNE 2020 TEEN

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7VirtualMyrtle WAYS TO ENJOY A

While you may not be able to travel to your favorite beach destination this spring, you can experience Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, through virtual experiences that bring the area’s popular beaches, attractions, activities and more to you. And those same features can help you plan for (and dream about) a Myrtle Beach vacation in the future.

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his favorite spring destination is known for its 60 miles of sandy beaches, gorgeous resorts, exciting attractions and delicious seafood restaurants. But that’s not all it has to offer, and this season families are invited to virtually experience the wide variety of attractions within the charming Atlantic seaboard town through specially created online opportunities.

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“While a lot of us may be at home, that doesn’t mean we can’t still see the world,” advises Emily Weaver on Popsugar.com.

“Thanks to the internet, we’re now able to virtually tour museums, landmarks, cities and more - no passport or packing required. Bon voyage!”

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With the help of a little technology, your imagination can take you straight to South Carolina’s top destination for fun, sun and surf. Thanks to the efforts of caring, creative people throughout the city, you can now virtually:

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TRAVEL

BeachVacation

across the nation. Then watch specially created video footage showcasing the cast of the critically acclaimed Carolina Opry Theater, now in its 35th season after successfully staging more than 9,000 performances.

4. Laugh at the antics of a group of African penguins through the live penguin cam at Ripley’s Aquarium, and check out its other live footage starring aquatic animals such as sharks, stingrays, hermit crabs and jellies.

5. Enjoy Facebook Live-sponsored entertainment from popular area restaurant the Dead Dog Saloon (and even tip your favorite acts, if you choose).

6. Engage yourself in completing a Myrtle Beach crossword puzzle, coloring pages and specially designed virtual jigsaw puzzles.

7. Add fun and excitement to your home schooling through educational opportunities offered by a number of fascinating local attractions. For example, the Myrtle Beach Art Museum posts compelling (and free) art classes and tutorials for kids as young as age 2.

Myrtle Beach State Park and Huntington Beach State Park are hosting Facebook Live events to share wildlife and nature information.

1. Imagine yourself taking a relaxing, balmy walk down a sugar-sand beach through the Ocean Drive live beach camera.

2. Immerse yourself in the sights (and often sounds) of 10 Myrtle Beach resorts

through live webcams that show off some of their most appealing features and scenery.

3. Take a fascinating backstage tour of the Alabama Theatre, which regularly hosts live professional entertainers from

Ready to get started with your virtual trip to Myrtle Beach, one of the nation’s most popular vacation destinations?

Find a complete list of virtual experiences at VisitMyrtleBeach.com/blog and get an overview of the entire area at VisitMyrtleBeach.com. (BPT) l

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