(NewsUSA) - 1. Immerse Yourself in the Extraordinary Culture of Sedona

Sedona's breathtaking red rock formations are matched only by its vibrant cultural experiences. The city is a haven for creativity, featuring world-class galleries, an incredible food scene, and exciting events. Don't miss Exposures International Gallery of Fine Art, one of the largest galleries in the Southwest, where you can admire stunning sculptures, glass art, and paintings.

Stroll along the Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village, a charming enclave modeled after a traditional Mexican village. Here, you'll find boutique galleries, artisan shops, and opportunities to meet the artists themselves.

Don't miss one-of-a-kind stores like The Artists Kitchen, offering unique culinary-inspired art and goods, or explore other distinctive boutiques in the area such as Good JuJu, known for its eclectic and inspiring finds.

Sedona is also home to many annual festivals like Sedona International Film Festival and Sedona Winefest.  For a guide to everything happening during your visit be sure to visit the Northern Arizona Event Calendar. For food lovers, Sedona boasts an impressive culinary scene, with standout restaurants, great coffee shops, and dining with incredible views

For outdoor enthusiasts, Sedona's natural beauty provides endless opportunities for both physical and spiritual exploration. Embark on the iconic Cathedral Rock Trail, a moderately challenging hike that rewards visitors with stunning views of Sedona's red rock landscape. Visit a vortex, a world-class spa, or many other wellness opportunities like Horse, Heart, & Connection.  Whether you're looking for culture, cuisine, or outdoor adventure, Sedona has something for everyone.

2. Sip and Savor in Cottonwood's Wine Country

Just a short drive from Sedona, Cottonwood is a rising star in Arizona's burgeoning wine industry. Nestled in the Verde Valley, this quaint town offers a delightful mix of rustic charm and sophisticated tasting experiences. Visit Merkin Vineyards Tasting Room & Osteria, where you can sample exquisite wines made from locally grown grapes. Pair your wine with house-made pasta or other farm-to-table delights for a truly memorable experience.

For a more in-depth look at the winemaking process, head to one of the nearby vineyards for a tour. Many wineries in the area practice sustainable farming, adding an eco-friendly touch to your visit. Cottonwood's wine country is perfect for oenophiles and casual wine enthusiasts alike.

3. Stargazing in Flagstaff: Embrace Astrotourism

Flagstaff, designated as the world's first International Dark Sky City, is a haven for stargazers. The city's commitment to preserving dark skies has made astrotourism a leading travel trend. Join guided night sky tours or visit the Lowell Observatory to marvel at the celestial wonders above. Whether you're a seasoned astronomer or a curious traveler, the starry skies of Flagstaff are truly magical.

4. Step Back in Time in Jerome: History and Charm

Perched on Cleopatra Hill, the historic town of Jerome offers a fascinating glimpse into Northern Arizona's mining past. Once known as the "Wickedest Town in the West," Jerome is now a vibrant arts community with a rich history.

Begin your visit with lunch at The Asylum Restaurant, located in the historic Jerome Grand Hotel. Enjoy stunning views of the Verde Valley while dining in this beautifully restored former hospital. Then, head to the Jerome State Historic Park or explore the Copper Art Museum, which features an impressive collection of artifacts that highlight the region's mining legacy and artistic craftsmanship.

Jerome's eclectic mix of historic sites, unique shops, and cool bars make it a must-visit destination for history buffs and curious travelers alike.

5. Travel Responsibly

As you explore Northern Arizona, it's essential to travel responsibly to preserve the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the region. Here are some tips:

• Respect Nature: Stay on designated trails, avoid disturbing wildlife, and leave no trace.
• Support Local: Choose locally owned businesses, artisans, and restaurants to contribute to the community.
• Be Culturally Sensitive: When visiting Native American sites, adhere to guidelines and respect the traditions of local tribes.

Northern Arizona's blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and historic charm ensures a travel experience that is both diverse and enriching. Whether you're exploring Sedona's art scene, sipping wines in Cottonwood, or marveling at the stars in Flagstaff, this region promises memories that will last a lifetime.  Everything you could possibly need to begin your journey; you will find on sedonamonthly.com

(NewsUSA) - The advancements made in eyewear over the years have been shaped by innovative materials designed to be stylish, durable, and flexible. Today’s optical frames are far more than just fashion statements—they are crafted to meet the demands of active lifestyles. Flexible materials have transformed the eyewear industry, offering resilience and comfort that were unimaginable decades ago. 

The journey began with the discovery of memory metal, a titanium-based alloy that was discovered by scientists in the 1960s for military applications. The material’s ability to return to its original shape after being bent laid the foundation for the flexible eyewear we see today. Memory metal, often associated with brands like Flexon Eyewear, is known for being lightweight, lighter than modern conventional metals, and resistant to fatigue and corrosion. This makes it ideal for consumers who need eyewear that can withstand various activities in everyday life. Whether it is a child pulling glasses off their father’s face, or an accidental drop during a DIY project, memory metal frames offer peace of mind by bouncing back into shape and withstanding life’s everyday activities.  

Flexon Eyewear customer feedback highlights the growing demand for eyewear that not only looks good but can keep up with life’s unpredictability. One parent described how their child tugged at their glasses during a family outing, bending them beyond what seemed repairable—yet the frames returned to their original form. Another individual working on a DIY project praised their eyewear for enduring knocks and accidental bends while remaining lightweight and comfortable throughout the day. 

As life gets busy, flexible frames are essential for those needing eyewear to keep up with them. Flexon’s use of flexible materials like memory metal contributes to a longer product lifespan, reducing the need for frequent replacements. Whether you are looking for glasses to match an active lifestyle or simply want eyewear that can handle the unexpected, these materials provide a blend of comfort, durability, and functional design.  

To learn more about Flexon Eyewear, visit flexon.com.  

(NewsUSA) - This year marks the 10th Annual National Apprenticeship Week (NAW), which will take place from November 17-23!

NAW 2024 includes over 2,000 apprenticeship events and proclamations in all 50 states across the Country as well as the District of Columbia and three territories. This is an all-time record in the 10-year history of NAW. These events are hosted by ApprenticeshipUSA partners including federal, state, and local government agencies, as well as industry representatives, labor and community-based organizations, workforce partners, educational institutions, and other related employers. The public is encouraged to seek out events in their local communities and attend. 

NAW activities and events help to showcase the ways in which the National Apprenticeship System strengthens the American economy by developing a highly skilled workforce to meet industry needs, creating pathways for career seekers to catapult into good jobs, and advancing racial and gender equity. 

NAW 2024 offers a unique opportunity to share the significant progress made in Registered Apprenticeship programs not only on a national level, but also within individual regions and states, thanks to the hard work of ApprenticeshipUSA partners. The events demonstrate the unifying power of the ApprenticeshipUSA ecosystem through uplifting examples of partnership and collaboration among national Registered Apprenticeship participants. 

This year’s theme, National Apprenticeship Week 2024: Celebrating 10 Years of Engagement, Expansion, and Innovation, reflects the transformative power of Registered Apprenticeship and its ability to bring together key national, regional, state, and local stakeholders across the country to meet critical workforce needs. Daily themes for the week are:

• Monday, November 18:  Youth and Young Adult Apprenticeship Day
• Tuesday, November 19: Registered Apprenticeship in New and Emerging Industries and Around the Globe
• Wednesday, November 20: Expanding Registered Apprenticeship to Underserved Populations 
• Thursday, November 21: Women in Apprenticeship
• Friday, November 22: Federal Apprenticeship and Veterans in Apprenticeship

Since NAW’s inception, Registered Apprenticeship has gained greater recognition as a tool to create the highly skilled workforce necessary to modernize our country’s infrastructure, build clean energy technologies, address cybersecurity threats, and build a stronger care economy. Registered Apprenticeships also create essential on-ramps for job seekers to enter robust career pathways.   

Over the past decade, ApprenticeshipUSA partners have hosted approximately 10,000 apprenticeship events attended by more than 1.4 million individuals of all ages and backgrounds.

The collective outreach and events held by partners during NAW since its inception has significantly broadened public awareness of Registered Apprenticeship. The dedicated efforts of ApprenticeshipUSA partners working to expand the National Apprenticeship System have led to the following accomplishments: 

• More than 2.3 million new Registered Apprentices have been registered since 2015.
• Active apprentice participation has increased by 80% from 360,026 to 659,947 apprentices.
• Join over 23,000 new Registered Apprenticeship programs have been established.

Events and activities have included Registered Apprenticeship program open houses for career seekers, skills competitions, community forums, apprentice graduations, business open houses, high school or college career fairs, apprenticeship signing days, industry roundtable events, diversity and inclusion dialogues, and more.

To learn more about NAW 2024 and how to get involved, please visit www.apprenticeship.gov/national-apprenticeship-week.

(NewsUSA) - One in three active-duty families of color have turned down military assignments due to concerns about racism or lack of inclusion in local communities, according to research from Blue Star Families’ Campaign for Inclusion. For two-thirds of these service members, declining orders led to negative career impacts — and for 15%, it was career-ending. 

"When military families of color turn down assignments due to community concerns, it impacts not just family well-being but our national security," said Kathy Roth-Douquet, CEO of Blue Star Families. "With most recruitable U.S. adults projected to be people of color within five years, creating truly inclusive communities isn't just the right thing to do — it's essential for maintaining our All-Volunteer Force."

The latest research from Blue Star Families' Campaign for Inclusion examined how communities can better support diverse military families through case studies of three distinct military communities: Hill Air Force Base (Utah), San Antonio (Texas, "Military City USA"), and Hampton Roads (Virginia).

Key findings reveal that both formal systems (like community resources and programs) and informal networks (neighbors and local connections) are foundational for military families developing a sense of belonging. Having multiple shared identities — from military affiliation to cultural background — strengthens these connections.

The research found that individual acts of welcome — from neighbors introducing themselves to communities providing culturally relevant services — make the biggest difference in helping military families feel at home. For example, San Antonio's military spouse employment programs and Hampton Roads' diverse cultural resources demonstrate how communities can create infrastructure supporting inclusion.

Building on this, here are five ways individuals and communities can activate to support local military and Veteran families. 

1. Create Family-Friendly Spaces: Organize inclusive events and shared community spaces that bring military and civilian families together naturally.
2. Connect Through Nature: Collaborate on outdoor initiatives like community gardens and hiking clubs that facilitate organic relationship-building.
3. Celebrate Diverse Cultures: Host events honoring various cultural traditions throughout the year, not just during designated months.
4. Revive Block Parties: Foster neighborhood connections through welcoming events that help military families build local bonds.
5. Build Inclusion Programs: Develop comprehensive initiatives focused on direct support, community partnerships, and cultural integration.

"Every community member has the power to help military families feel welcomed and valued," added Roth-Douquet. "These actions aren't just about being good neighbors — they directly impact military readiness and our nation's ability to recruit and retain the force we need."

This research is part of Blue Star Families' ongoing Campaign for Inclusion initiative to strengthen military communities through greater understanding and support of diverse military families.

To learn more about the Blue Star Families Campaign for Inclusion and ways to support military families in your community, visit BlueStarFam.org/CFI.

(NewsUSA) - Economic uncertainty and higher prices have brought shifts in consumer behavior, yet recent sales trends show steady spending, and economic indicators are moving in a positive direction heading into the holiday season. New data from ICSC, the member organization for the Marketplaces Industry, suggests that most people are eager to enjoy themselves this holiday season—including shopping and dining out.

ICSC has released its Annual Holiday Shopping Intentions Survey for 2024, and results suggest that 92% of American consumers plan to participate in holiday shopping this year, the highest percentage since 2019. The organization also forecasts an increase of 3.0% to 3.5% in retail sales from October through December, with a 6.0% increase in food and beverage sales.

Although online shopping continues, many shoppers combine online purchases with visits to brick-and-mortar stores. ICSC’s survey showed that nearly all in-store shoppers also plan to buy online from a retailer’s website, and almost half said that in-store browsing influences online purchases.

Shoppers will spend an average of approximately $700 on gifts and other holiday items this year, according to the data, with 58% reporting a plan to buy gift cards, 52% planning to buy clothing and accessories, and 50% planning to buy toys and games.

“Despite economic headwinds, 70% of holiday shoppers feel their financial situation is better than or the same as this time last year, signaling measured optimism among consumers,” said Tom McGee, President and CEO of ICSC. “Interest rate cuts and easing inflation are taking some pressure off holiday shoppers, but other macro factors such as geopolitical turmoil and the results of this year’s election are still at play.”

Consumers are still planning to spend this holiday season but are increasingly focused on how they can find the best prices, according to ICSC. Though inflation is moderating, 9 in 10 say it will impact their purchase decisions. In response, most consumers say they’ll plan to spend more time hunting for deals and discounts, and 68% say they’ll visit brick-and-mortar stores more often in pursuit of promotions – seven percentage points higher than in 2023.

“Shoppers overall are well-positioned for the holiday season,” McGee added. “While this year has seen consumers tighten their belts in some areas, they’re continuing to spend – and we expect that moderating inflation and a steady labor market will help maintain spending throughout the holiday season.”

Visit icsc.com for more information.

(Bart S. Fisher) - Former President Donald Trump has proposed replacing the federal income tax with tariffs imposed on imported products. Indeed, this is the central pillar in his campaign's economic program.

There are four problems with this flawed proposal.

First, it would trigger a global trade war, as other countries would surely retaliate with their own tariffs. It was the protectionist Smoot-Hawley Tariff Act of 1930 that contributed to the Great Depression, which occurred when other countries retaliated against the draconian tariffs imposed by the United States. Far from Making America Great Again Trump's tariffs would bring America a Great Depression again. It is the consensus view of economists and economic historians that the passage of Smoot-Hawley dramatically worsened the effects of the Great Depression. We should remember the wise words of George Santayana, who said that "Those who cannot remember the past are doomed to repeat it.".

The second problem is that the president does not possess the legal authority to replace the income tax with tariffs. Under Article 1, Section 8, Clause 1 of the Constitution, known generally as the Commerce Clause, Congress possesses the plenary power over the the collection of taxes and the regulation of foreign commerce, including the power to "lay and collect Taxes, Imposts, and Excises," unless and until it delegates such power to the Executive Branch. Moreover, an attempt by Congress to delegate across the board tariff-making authority to the president would surely be struck down by the courts as an impermissibly broad delegation of authority.  

The third problem is that the tariff is essentially a regressive national sales tax that would discriminate against lower income consumers and permit corporations and higher income Americans to escape paying their fair share of taxes. American consumers would see higher prices and increased inflation as a result of the Trump tariffs. Contrary to Trump's repeated erroneous assertions, tariffs are passed along in large part by importers to consumers. 

Fourth, replacing the income tax with tariffs would be irresponsible fiscal folly, as tariffs imposed on goods alone could not raise the revenues required to run the federal government. America is a service-based economy, with 77.6 percent of its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) coming from services in 2021.  Indeed, the reason the federal income tax was instituted by the 16th Amendment in 1913 was that tariffs alone could not adequately support the activities of the federal government. The purpose of the federal income tax is to pay for the essential services of the federal government, including defense, highways, supporting the justice system, social security, and providing services that benefit all citizens, who could not provide such services very effectively for themselves.

In a nutshell, replacing the federal income tax with tariffs is a simple proposal from a simple mind designed to soak the poor. It ignores the lessons of history, a major symptom of Trump Derangement Syndrome.

 

* Bart S. Fisher is a lawyer in Washington, D.C. He was nominated in 2019 and 2020 for the Nobel Peace Prize.

(NewsUSA) - Photo caption: The Astoria fiberglass pool by Latham, The Pool Company

When it comes to building a residential swimming pool, homeowners have a variety of materials to consider. While concrete and vinyl remain popular, fiberglass is quickly becoming the go-to choice due to its unique blend of durability, easy maintenance and aesthetic versatility. Here are six reasons why:

1. Long-Term Durability

Fiberglass is remarkably strong and made of an advanced composite material, resistant to cracking and wear. Unlike concrete, which is rigid and can develop structural cracks over time, fiberglass has the ability to flex in response to environmental impacts, ground shifts and temperature changes. This makes it an ideal option for homeowners who want a pool that lasts for decades.

2. Low Maintenance

Concrete surfaces are porous, which means they can harbor algae and bacteria, necessitating regular brushing, chemical balancing and even resurfacing over time. By contrast, a fiberglass pool has a smooth, non-porous surface that resists algae growth and requires fewer chemicals and less frequent cleaning. This means less time and money spent on upkeep and a generally healthier swimming environment.

3. Quick Installation

Concrete pools can take months to install due to the labor-intensive process of excavation, forming, pouring and curing. Fiberglass pools come ready to install, drastically reducing installation time and disruption to daily life. In most cases, a fiberglass pool can be fully installed within just a few days.

4. Smooth, Comfortable Surface

Unlike the rough and often abrasive surfaces of concrete pools, fiberglass pools are known for their smooth, comfortable texture. There’s no need to worry about scrapes or rough patches, making every dip a relaxing experience.

5. Energy Efficiency

Fiberglass pools retain heat better than concrete pools, making them more energy efficient. This heat retention not only makes swimming more comfortable but can also reduce the need to run pool heaters as frequently, resulting in energy savings over time.

6. Modern Aesthetic Appeal

Today’s fiberglass pools come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes and can be customized with built-in features like tanning ledges, benches, water features and other spa-like elements. Plus, advances in gel-coat finishes allow for different color options that add elegance and personal style to any backyard.

As homeowners increasingly prioritize ease and aesthetics in their outdoor living spaces, fiberglass pools are set to dominate the market as a modern, long-lasting and hassle-free pool solution. To learn more about fiberglass pools, visit LathamPool.com.

(Mayra Garza, Head of Group Benefits Strategy and Retail Segment at Guardian and Shawn Patrick, Director of Strategic Growth at Kelsey National) - Open Enrollment is here.

For many Americans, this is the time of year they dedicate to thinking about their insurance benefits, regardless of whether they are purchased individually or accessed through their employer.

As individuals think about their and their families’ health needs and what types of coverage will provide the best support, it’s important not to overlook the role of dental insurance. Why? Because good oral health plays an important role in influencing physical health, as well as someone’s mental and financial well-being.

Kick-starting and supporting good oral health is rooted in selecting the right dental insurance plan for you and utilizing its benefits. With this in mind, here’s what individuals should consider as they evaluate their various dental insurance options over the next few months.

The oral health foundation

A recent study by Guardian found that only 35% of Americans rate their oral health as excellent or very good.

The implications of this go beyond just the mouth.

For example, problems located in the mouth can affect the whole body. When left untreated, mouth bacteria can spread to the bloodstream, harming other parts of the body. Gum disease, for example, occurs when bacteria infect the gums and the condition has been linked to serious health issues such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, respiratory ailments, and even Alzheimer's disease.

Another way dental hygiene can influence the whole body is nutrition. When significant tooth loss occurs, it may decrease a person’s appetite and limit what a person eats. This situation may lead to an imbalanced diet that lacks the foods necessary to promote sound health.

There are also mental and emotional health implications. Missing, damaged, or discolored teeth, for example, can make a person self-conscious and lead them to avoid social interactions. In fact, Guardian found that 78% of people with self-reported “fair” or “poor” oral health indicated it has had an effect on their mental health.

Finally, there is a connection between oral health and financial wellness. Generally speaking, individuals who get regular preventive dental care see significant cost savings down the line—either because they need fewer dental procedures overall or have lower claims costs. As financial well-being plays an outsized role in influencing mental, physical, and overall well-being, finding the right dental insurance policy for you and using the associated benefits is essential.

Finding the right coverage for you

There is no single dental plan that is perfect for everyone. However, even when purchasing dental insurance individually (as opposed to receiving it through a work benefit), there are a wide range of options to help meet someone’s needs.

The first step in choosing the right plan for you and your needs is finding a plan that covers preventive, basic, and major dental care. While you may not have immediate need for all these services, comprehensive coverage provides protection against unexpected events like the fracture of a tooth or the need for a root canal. At minimum, using the preventive benefits—which often includes coverage for bi-annual dental exams and teeth cleaning to remove plaque and tartar—provides dentists with the opportunity to spot emerging problems before they become more complicated or expensive to fix.

The second step is to confirm the plan in question covers services you expect to use in the near future. Aside from regular cleanings and x-rays, you may want teeth whitening or orthodontia. Since not every plan insures these services, you’ll need to confirm coverage in a plan’s summary of benefits. When considering services you may need, pay particular attention to waiting periods—which many dental plans have and which require that you be enrolled in the plan for a minimum number of months before a more expensive procedure may be covered. If you have an immediate dental need, it’s important to make certain that service is available once your plan is purchased and active.

A third step is to look into the plan’s dental network. There are three common types of networks—Preferred Provider Organizations (which give you the option of using dentists both in and out-of-network), Health Maintenance Organizations (which restrict you to in-network dentists), and indemnity (often lacks a network and allows a member to see any dentist). In addition to confirming that your current or preferred dentist is in your plan’s network, make sure that network includes nearby specialists. Whether you might need a pediatric dentist for your child or an oral surgeon, having a comprehensive network is one of the best ways to get value from your dental plan. To help confirm whether a dentist takes a specific insurance plan, many insurance carriers have a provider search function on their website or app.

Another consideration is a dental plan’s maximum benefit. A maximum benefit is an insurance company’s annual limit on what they contribute toward dental expenses. If a dental plan has a $1,500 maximum limit, for example, that means the insurance company will spend up to $1,500 every plan year on covered dental expenses (after the deductible has been satisfied). Some plans reward enrollees for loyalty by increasing the plan’s annual limit in the second and third year of coverage.

Finally, make it easy on yourself. After all, people are more likely to utilize dental benefits that are accessible and understandable—and, as mentioned, increased utilization is closely linked to better oral health outcomes and lower costs. One area many insurers are investing in to support utilization is technology. When evaluating an insurance plan, take a look at some of these tech enabled features, including whether you can add your ID card to your smartphone wallet and whether they have any online resources to help you understand or maximize offered benefits. Another component to look at is whether any self-service tools are available, including online dentist search databases, the ability to set-up recurring payments, and whether you can pay bills online. 

Supporting your well-being

The link between regular dental care, better oral health, and overall wellness can’t be underestimated—and it starts with having the right plan for you in place. As you consider your insurance benefits for the year ahead, don’t overlook the importance of dental insurance.  

For more information, visit dentalinsurance.com.

(NewsUSA) - According to a recent Houzz report, kitchens remain the most renovated interior room (29%), followed closely by guest and primary bathrooms (27% and 25%, respectively). In 2023, the median spend for kitchen renovations climbed by 20% to $24,000, while primary bath projects saw an 11% increase, reaching $15,000. With home improvement investments rising, here are five transformative kitchen and bath upgrades to elevate your space without breaking the bank:

1. Create a Spa-inspired Bathroom –The Wetwall™ Waterproof Wall Panel System is an affordable and easy way to create spa-worthy retreats that deliver high-end style without the need for disruptive demolitions. Thanks to grout-free, tongue-and-groove panels that can be installed over virtually any existing material including tile, this upgrade can be completed in as little as 2.5 hours. Available in high-end designs, the panels are perfect for shower walls, bath surrounds, accent walls, and cladding and can instantly transform your bathroom into a spa-worthy retreat buyers will love. 

2. Update Your Countertops – Countertops are a key focal point in kitchens and bathrooms, and upgrading your tops can instantly refresh any space. Quartz delivers the elegance of natural stone with superior durability, offering a luxurious yet practical surface. For homeowners who love the look of Taj Mahal quartzite, Wilsonart® Quartz Glencoe and Marathi Marble designs provide stunning alternatives that capture the same timeless beauty with enhanced durability. For seamless, low-maintenance integration, Wilsonart® Solid Surface is perfect, providing a sleek look for countertops, backsplashes, and even integrated sinks in both kitchens and baths.

3. Refresh Your Flooring – Flooring is an often-overlooked element in kitchen and bathroom makeovers, but it’s crucial for both function and style. Consider water-resistant flooring for kitchens, such as luxury vinyl planks or tiles that offer the warmth of wood without the maintenance. For bathrooms, opt for durable, moisture-proof options like porcelain tile or vinyl. These materials add elegance while standing up to the demands of high-traffic areas.

4. Upgrade Your Cabinets – Updating your cabinets can help elevate your living environment to a new level of luxuriousness. The LUJO® Collection inspires with a sense of reassurance and comfort that can transform any space into a sanctuary. The collection allows you to choose luxurious wood species for cabinets/case goods, cabinet interiors and closet systems and is stain and moisture resistant, allowing for simple cleaning and disinfection. It can also be easily combined with other engineered surfaces, allowing you to create a cohesive and sophisticated aesthetic for your living spaces.

5. Transform with Paint – Never underestimate the power of a fresh coat of paint. In 2024, expect to see a continued focus on nature-inspired shades like soft greens, warm taupes, and muted blues in kitchens and bathrooms alike. Accent walls in bolder hues, such as deep blues or rich terracottas, are also trending for those looking to add a pop of personality without overwhelming the space.

For more information and ideas to help inspire your next home remodel project, visit www.wilsonart.com.  

(Mark Gibbons, President/CEO of RetireSafe) - With the start of Medicare’s open enrollment period, it’s important that older Americans explore their healthcare options to make the best choice for their unique needs.

Seniors eligible for Medicare benefits have the choice of enrolling in traditional Medicare (also known as fee-for-service) or selecting a plan from Medicare Advantage (MA), which provides coverage through private health plans approved by Medicare. In recent years MA plans—or Medicare Part C—have become increasingly preferred among beneficiaries.

“We’ve seen Medicare Advantage become a popular alternative to traditional Medicare among older Americans over the last several years. The flexibility and cost savings associated with MA make these plans an attractive choice,” notes Mark Gibbons, President and CEO of RetireSafe, a non-profit dedicated to educating and advocating on behalf of older Americans.

Compared to traditional Medicare, Medicare Advantage plans are typically associated with:

• Lower costs and greater predictability. Most MA plans offer lower out-of-pocket (OOP) costs, and all MA plans are required to cap the amount you spend on healthcare annually. On average, beneficiaries enrolled in MA plans save $2,500 per year on premiums and OOP costs.
• More coordinated and consistent access to care. Unlike traditional Medicare, where individuals pay separate monthly premiums for hospital visits, outpatient services, and prescription drugs, Medicare Advantage bundles these services into a single monthly premium. It’s why MA plans are better suited to offer coordinated care to patients, which is particularly important for those living with chronic conditions or seniors who see multiple healthcare providers.
• Coverage of supplemental benefits and prescription drugs. MA plans offer supplemental benefits such as vision, dental, hearing, telehealth, transportation, nutrition and wellness services. Additionally, while traditional Medicare requires beneficiaries to purchase a separate plan for prescription drug coverage, MA plans often cover prescriptions under the same plan.

Due to the cost, coverage, care, and accessibility benefits associated with Medicare Advantage, beneficiaries enrolled in MA plans report better health outcomes, on average, across a range of metrics. Those enrolled in MA are more likely to have a usual source of care and to report receiving routine healthcare screenings and preventive services,

Seniors should take the time to review their current coverage and consider whether Medicare Advantage might be right for their unique needs.