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Re-Post In the midst of a maple shortage, one artisan is giving big brands a run for their money!

Extra, extra! Get your maple syrup today. This small artisan business is doing reasonably well despite the global shortage in Quebec that has them digging into their reserve. 

Meet Ralph Morse, a local artisan in Cooperstown, New York, who is revolutionizing the maple market. Hidden within the woods outside of the baseball birthplace lies a small maple production run by one man. Together they make various types of syrups, salts, butter, gummies, and even woodwork. To be as sustainable as possible and care for the forest, their products are causing even a bigger roar! From restaurants to local boutiques and farmer’s markets, Ralph’s Cooperstown Mapleworks is making it hard to believe that there’s a global shortage. 

Ralph makes pure gold! He is a one-person show who can tap quite a few acres of maple trees and works way over 1,000 gallons of sap/maple a season! He also has a running system of boiling, reverse osmosis, and sustainable practices. 

Every product is straight from his backyard, the woods filled with blue tubes connecting every maple tree with the main production machinery. Ralph’s practices are strictly sustainable, from ensuring the forest is healthy by cutting down harmful trees to keeping it clean and prosperous. The wood cut down is later used to fuel the machines that power up his whole maple production.

 Absolutely nothing gets thrown away. And even the maple that might be a different color, flavor, or too hard can be used for products such as maple salt or gummies!

Ralph's products are booming, from boutiques to restaurants purchasing from him exclusively in massive amounts. So much so that, he is almost sold out for the winter season. “You can tell the difference between store-bought maple that is made from corn syrup and sugar and literally zero maples! It’s gross. We use Ralph’s maple, salts, and butter for our restaurant!” Said Julian Gialanella, owner of The Blue Mingo Grill in Cooperstown cult restaurant. With so much abundance, what exactly is causing the global shortage? 

Ralph is doing great for a small business, unlike the situation in Quebec. According to the Québec Maple Syrup Producers (QMSP), Quebec produces 72% of global maple. Unfortunately, this year was much warmer than usual. “In 2021, an early thaw caused the sap to start flowing simultaneously across the province, and unusually warm temperatures in April brought the harvest season to an abrupt halt. Maple producers are at the mercy of Mother Nature.”- Stated the QMSP. But don’t worry. Your waffles or dry rubs will still be savory and sweet! Canada is making 7 million more tree taps to help offset the adverse effects of 2021. 

Despite the shortage and demands, Ralph is expanding his business by building an even bigger building on his property to tap even more trees! ”Now I am building a new sugar house, expanding, and buying new equipment, so it’s that growth process.” Said Ralph as he slaps a bourbon barrel for one of his maple products. Ralph is slowly but surely growing his business and showing New York how sweeter and more sustainable his various kinds of maple syrups and products are than a big corporation!

And, if you are in Cooperstown or have a credit card, you can get all of your sweet needs met in person or online by the Cooperstown Mapleworks!

QR Codes- Unlocking New Levels of Luxury Sales

Magazines such as Vogue include QR codes within their pages to build a bridge for readers to buy items quickly. 

At first glance, QR codes might seem like odd black cubes, but did you know they offer a whole world of possibilities? A simple scan with your phone or a smart device can open web pages and applications. And in Vogue’s case, it can show you where to buy the trendy pieces of the week or learn more about designers like Balenciaga and their efforts toward human rights. 

About the QR Code

Hubspot says, “ A QR code works similarly to barcodes at the supermarket. Each QR code consists of black squares and dots representing different information pieces. When scanned, the unique pattern on the barcode translates into human-readable data. This transaction happens in seconds.” 

These codes have been used for ages. With the current pandemic, everyone has been implementing them as a new approach to business and emotionally connecting to you. The information gathered from this transaction also helps brands with sales and conversion rates.  

Shaping the fashion industry

The QR code is undoubtedly changing the industry in many ways. The whole client journey starts digitally. Brands who offer extra incentives such as scanning a code to view more about a show, buying a product with one click, or learning more about a garment (Gabriela Hearst Spring/Summer 2020 Collection); can create a positive effect on the business and the viewer/customer as well. 

Vogue Business states that: “ Post-purchase data collection is key. Philippe Model’s end-to-end blockchain is set to migrate to OpSec Insight, where lists of verification registrants can be downloaded and analyzed. Customization is our goal. We’re essentially building a digital atelier.”

QR codes are trending, and everyone from top restaurants and boutique hotels to your favorite designer is using them to make your experience with their product even more special.

Diabetes Awareness & Prevention Tips

Did you know that the risk of a shark attack is 1 in 11.5 million people, whereas the risk of prediabetes is 1 in 3 adults!?

37.3 million people have diabetes — that’s 11.3% of the U.S. population. Around 283,000 Americans under 20yrs old have been diagnosed with diabetes, and in 2019 alone, diabetes was the cause of death in over 282,801 people. With these shocking numbers, it is time to work together for a better, healthier future! 

What is diabetes?

According to the Mayo Clinic, diabetes is “a group of diseases that affect how your body uses blood sugar (glucose). Glucose is vital to your health because it's an important energy source for the cells that make up your muscles and tissues. It's also your brain's main source of fuel.” 

The chances are that if you have diabetes, your body doesn't make enough insulin or doesn't use the insulin well enough. Most of the food we eat is broken down into glucose (sugar) and goes into our bloodstream. It then signals the pancreas to release insulin that lets blood sugar be used as energy. Too much sugar in your blood can cause vision loss, kidney issues, and heart disease. 

Causes & symptoms of diabetes

Each type of diabetes is different and caused by diverse factors.  

• Prediabetes: You might not have diabetes yet, but your average blood sugar levels might be slightly higher. You might be at risk if you are overweight, 45yrs or older, have certain genetics, and are sedentary. However, it is not impossible to regress it and prevent Type 2. 

• Symptoms include: Prediabetes shares the same symptoms as Type 1 & 2; however, your skin can darken around the knees, elbow, and knuckles as well. 

• Type 1 Diabetes happens when your immune system attacks the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. 

• Symptoms include Increased thirst & urination, hunger, fatigue, weight loss, breath smells fruity, stomach pain, and trouble paying attention or breathing. 

• Type 2 Diabetes: One of the most common types. You can develop Type 2 by being overweight, having physical inactivity, and having insulin resistance. Your genes can also be a factor. 

• Symptoms include: These are the same as Type 1 with the inclusion of slow healing sores, frequent infections, numbness or tingling in hands or feet, and/or darkened skin around the neck and armpits. 

• Gestational Diabetes: This type of diabetes develops during pregnancy due to massive hormonal and lifestyle changes. The hormones produced by the placenta contribute to insulin resistance which can happen when the pancreas doesn't make enough of it. 

• Symptoms include: While some symptoms include the same listed for Type 1 and 2, you can also experience nausea/vomiting, blurred vision, and yeast infections.

Diabetes Prevention Tips: 

• Choosing healthy foods like plants & healthy fats.

• Maintain a healthy weight.

• Get regular exercise & physical activity. 

• Avoid sugary foods & drinks. 

• Don’t smoke. 

• Find more resources.

Treatment Options

Mayo Clinic states, "Treatment for type 1 diabetes involves insulin injections or the use of an insulin pump, frequent blood sugar checks, and carbohydrate counting. Treatment of type 2 diabetes primarily involves lifestyle changes, monitoring of your blood sugar, along with diabetes medications, insulin, or both.” 

When to see your doctor

The American Diabetes Association recommends routine screening with diagnostic tests for type 2 diabetes for all adults age 45 or older and for the following groups:

• People younger than 45 who are overweight or obese and have one or more risk factors associated with diabetes.

• Women who have had gestational diabetes.

• People who have been diagnosed with prediabetes.

• Children who are overweight or obese and who have a family history of type 2 diabetes or other risk factors.

• Share your concerns about diabetes prevention with your doctor. He or she will appreciate your efforts to prevent diabetes and may offer additional suggestions based on your medical history or other factors.

If you or someone you know is living with diabetes, click on this link to find valuable tools, resources, and support.

Re-Post This May, get moving for Physical Fitness & Sports Month!

Whether staying home or going out into the world, staying physically fit has never been easier! 

Now more than ever, keeping healthy is a priority. Daily physical activity is one of the most important things you can do for your overall health. With the pandemic, many of us have become relatively stationary. However, you can find activities that will help you depending on your age, abilities, shape, size, and ethnicity/culture! 

Keeping active can help improve your brain health, help you keep a healthy weight, keep diseases at bay, maintain strong bones and muscles, and improve your neurological, behavioral, and mental health. 

Staying active

With the pandemic forever ongoing, staying active can be challenging but more crucial than ever before! Sedentary lifestyles can create additional stress on our bodies and minds. Therefore, physical activity can serve as a relaxation technique, combat depression, lower the risk of heart problems, lower blood pressure, Type 2 diabetes, and cancer, and promote a better life during uncertain times. You don’t have to join a gym or buy fancy equipment to be healthy. 

Here are some ways to stay active, whether inside or out! 

1. Sign up for our ProWellness online fitness & wellness program: Wellness Program participants can benefit from a variety of activities such as exercises, meditation sessions, ergonomic exercises, and health talks to enrich your daily life. All the activities are presented by ZOOM in live sessions. To learn more about our exclusive wellness offerings and value-added programs for clients, such as our ProWellness virtual wellness program, please contact benefits@fulcroinsurance.com or your Account Executive. 

2. Get walking! Walk for 30min with a friend, your dog, or adopt one. Walking can help your mood and heart health. 

3. Set your fitness goals. A perfect way to stay organized and self-accountable is by making a plan and following it. 

4. Go outside! Discover new nature trails with your bike, while jogging, or with friends. Even gardening and mowing count as staying active. 

5. Play sports. Sports such as golf, yoga, swimming, horseback riding, or bowling can be therapeutic and adaptive to your abilities. 

6. DeskFit. If you are spending 8hrs days working from your desk, you might want to try these beneficial exercises from NASA’s DeskFit. 

7. Community outreach. Help the community around you to stay active by spreading messages on social media. 

Aside from being physically active, don’t forget to drink a lot of water, know your limits, and eat your daily fruits and veggies. Devoting time to your body will give you energy, health, and overall increased happiness! In addition, you can help your employees be healthy and accountable for their health with this pledge.

The best-hidden Speakeasies in the U.S

Here are some tips on how to know the correct password and get the best drinks! 

Can you keep a secret? You can only go in through a hidden passage or the correct password, but once you are in, the real journey starts. Enter an otherworldly experience hidden in plain sight and enjoy the best drinks. These hidden bars, aka speakeasies, will transport you to the times of prohibitions, adventure land, spooky romantic settings, and more! Speakeasies might be exclusive, hard to find, and hard to get in. Luckily, Andiago is here to show you around and give you tips on how to get in. Just don’t tell everyone! 

Dirty Laundry, St. Petersburg, FL

From the outside, it may appear you are standing outside a cute laundromat that happens to have yummy pastries, small sandwiches, and coffee. This clever decoy hides one of the trendiest speakeasies in St. Pete’s! Take a look around and spot a sign that says “Talk Dirty to Me,” and pick up the pay phone. You will need to enter a code that might be given to you when you go in or whispered to you randomly. Once you dial the code, you will be transported into a beautiful Havana cocktail lounge with a nightly DJ, Cuban cocktails, and a fun night! Also, DL offers brunch, food options, and fantastic coffee.

Williams & Graham, Denver, CO  

Who doesn’t love a good bookstore? Especially one with a deliciously hidden secret! The only way to get into the speakeasy is by scanning through the bookshelves and finding the right book. You might want to pull on a book named Savoy which will slide the bookcase open like a mystery movie. W&G has the most original cocktail menu, 60 classic cocktails, and over 500 bottles worldwide. Their food by Chef Grant Bushkuhl is just as unique and wonderful as the drinks menu. 

Please Don’t Tell (PDT)- New York, NY

This secret bar is a New York staple in the underground. The only way to get in is by heading over to Crif Dogs, a trendy hot dog place on St. Mark’s Place. Once there, a wall will slide out with a red phone. Pick it up to get in. PDT ranks as one of the few best speakeasies globally! And while it is super classy and highly mysterious, you can have some of the best drinks and hot dogs if you please. Reservations are highly required to be able to enjoy their signature drinks.

Midnight Cowboy, Austin, TX

One of the oldest and most historical speakeasies in Austin is known as a former brothel masqueraded as an oriental massage place. MC embraced the building's history and decided to continue it as a secret bar set in the prohibition era. At first, you might think this is just a massage parlor, but if you go inside, you need to locate a red light bulb that glows. However, you will need to buzz a button with the name "Harry Craddock" outside a blank door. Inside, the speakeasy has delicious Tikki-inspired drinks, wonderful staff creations, and curations. Reservations are strongly suggested. 

The Pawn Shop, San Francisco, CA

This hidden tapas bar is everything your heart and soul desire! This pawn shop dates back to the 1900s. You will need to go to 996 Mission Street and find a golden phone to get inside. When you pick up the phone, you will chat with a shady-sounding person. Once inside, you’ll discover an incredible Cuban art deco-inspired bar. Aside from its neon lights and ornaments, the tapas-style cuisine and curated wines will take you away. We suggest reservations for big groups.

A sustainable approach to engine building and aeronautics

From sustainable fuels, engines, and more, reducing the environmental footprint is now more attainable than ever in aviation.

Today, numerous aerospace and aviation companies are adopting greener technologies with new systems utilizing hydrogen fuel and more innovative practices overall. For example, electrified aircraft propulsion systems are proving to be incredibly beneficial despite the challenges and applied technologies necessary to make them work. Likewise, more sustainable techniques are starting to be implemented to successfully develop aviation electrification, minimize fuel burning, and in turn, lower emissions and costs for the industry.

According to A Review of Concepts, Benefits, and Challenges for Future, Electrical Propulsion-Based Aircraft, the aerospace industry consumes well over 276 million tons of jet fuel and produces around 2.7% of CO2 emissions yearly while flying. Additionally, the demand for fuel is estimated to grow by approximately 4.8% annually; by the year 2050, it is predicted that we will see a 60% plus increase in air travel miles with a 38% increase in energy usage and over 209 million metric tons of CO2 emissions. Though the subsequent environmental damage associated with these numbers is incredibly concerning, the restructuring of efficient technology, the use of new propulsion techs, decarbonization, and other green technologies, are bringing increasing promise to a more sustainable world.

Engine maintenance

Unsurprisingly, jet engine producers and maintenance crews always look for ways to reduce costs and repairs. Engines are a significant part of the airplane and having to maintain and/or repair one can result in pricey outcomes. In turn, many engine maintenance companies are adopting new methods to strengthen engines and increase their life cycles while also helping decrease ecological and environmental impacts. For example, new technologies and product developments such as the NASA and Pratt & Whitney Hybrid Thermally Efficient Core are improving engine combustors with cleaner energy.

“In order to meet the Aviation Climate Action Plan’s carbon emissions goals, future single-aisle aircraft engines will have to be able to burn sustainable aviation fuels,” said Tony Nerone, HyTEC project manager at NASA’s Glenn Research Center in Cleveland. “HyTEC’s role is to develop these small core engine combustors that are more efficient, more durable, and able to use sustainable aviation fuel without compromising the engine performance and while providing significant emissions benefits.”

Engine building

Companies such as Rolls Royce are leading a new way of creating Civil Aerospace engines, pledging to have fully compatible engine types in 2023. To keep up with environmental standards, their engines help planes fly on blended Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and are over 98% recyclable.

Additionally, the use of 3D printing and Additive Layer Manufacturing is allowing certain airplane engine parts to be created with less waste while also cutting down production times. An example is the Pearl 10X engine. On the other hand, the modified A380 from Airbus will be tested using a hydrogen-powered engine that can potentially bring lower-emission fuels to air travel. This plane is one of the largest passenger planes, with enough room for liquid hydrogen tanks and more.

Hybrid electric and water-enhanced turbofans

A current European Union-funded project has big aero engine companies such as MTU Aero Engines, Pratt & Whitney, Collins Aerospace, GKN Aerospace, and Airbus working together. The companies aim to create two leading engine techs: hybrid electric and water-powered turbofans. This technology will help engines be more efficient, have electric taxiing, takeoff boost, and much more.

According to Simple Flying: “The second part of this puzzle is the water-enhanced turbofan or WET for short. Based on a gas turbine and under development by MTU Aero Engines, the WET uses residual heat from exhaust gasses to vaporize water in the engine. The vapor is injected into the combustor, which MTU says has the power to significantly drive down nitrogen oxide emissions. Alongside this, fuel consumption, CO2 emissions, and contrail formation are all reduced.”

Sustainable fuel
Likewise, Boeing is working to make fuel more sustainable and affordable with a

hydrogen-powered plane. Through successful test flights, Boeing has already proven that choosing more sustainable fuels over petroleum jelly can work and transform the current climate change situation. Today, sustainable aviation fuels are mixed directly with conventional jet fuel up to a 50/50 blend — the maximum allowed under current fuel specifications. To meet the aviation industry’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions by 50% from 2005 levels by 2050, airplanes need the capability to fly on 100% sustainable aviation fuels well before then.

In conclusion, new and more sustainable technology and alternative materials are constantly and successfully being used to address current environmental challenges and socio-economic issues associated with the aviation industry. These new developments are not only benefitting aerospace businesses but the world as a whole.

A new generation of aviation students

High school students are leading the way into a new & innovative generation of aviation.

Imagine what it takes to learn how to fly! Studying to be a pilot in the aviation industry comes with many challenges, such as finding the right instructor, preparing for the infamous FAA exams, learning how to communicate with the tower, and being proficient in the latest tools—not to mention the high expenses. Such a heavy undertaking could dissuade many from becoming a pilot.

However, today we are seeing the emergence of a new and innovative generation of aviators: high school students! Today, aviation chapters and numerous institutions and organizations around the U.S. are helping students acquire the knowledge and new tools needed to soar through the skies by offering real-world and hands-on experiences. Through these programs, students are thrown into trouble-solving situations and are better positioned to pursue their future careers in aviation confidently.

For example, students learn how to fly and maintain planes with a top-of-the-line flight simulator at North Augusta High School. With the help of instructors such as Travis Spears, students are having fun exploring flight opportunities and learning the pre-flight steps, how to handle issues, and how to fly safely before actually stepping onto a real plane. The course also offers students a curriculum written by Boeing and the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) and all of the necessary information needed to pass the FAA exam.

North Augusta High School instructor Travis Spears stated, “Many people have this idea that aviation is this unattainable thing that is only available to rich people. Our program is designed to open up the opportunity to fly to everyone.”

In June 2022, The Lone Star Flight Museum and The Museum of Flight in Seattle, Washington, signed an agreement to push aviation learning into the community. Together, they installed an Aviation Learning Center (ALC) to inspire the pursuit of aviation in high school students and introduce them to the basic concepts of aerodynamics, traffic control, relevant math skills, engineering, and computer science. Additionally, the Texas aircraft company Mooney International Inc. will provide the museum with an aircraft where students can eventually practice their hard-earned skills hands-on.

The center is also fighting to change the narrative of women in aviation. “In other countries, you see that 60% of engineers are women, whereas in the U.S., it is only about 18%. This is a cultural thing. It’s my generation of parents that bring up their daughters to think it’s a man’s field, that math and science are not for girls,” stated Dr. Bonnie Dunbar, Director of the

University of Houston’s STEM Center and Director/Co-Chair of the Education Committee of Lone Star Flight Museum.

Likewise, this past July, the Women’s Air Race Classics (ARC) program was implemented for prospective female pilots ranging from 17-90 years old. The program aims to encourage and educate current and future women pilots, increase public awareness of general aviation, demonstrating women’s roles in aviation, and preserve and promote the tradition of pioneering women in aviation.

Lastly, The Lakeland Aero Club is a non-profit flying club for high school students that teach all aspects of the aviation industry, including complete restorations and flight training. Through the club’s program, students gain hands-on training in building aircraft engines and gain full support until they are up in the air and flying.

Programs like the ones mentioned above successfully prepare students with the latest technology and knowledge to prepare them in their quest to become future pilots. All of these associations and organizations are using FAA requirements, state of the art training, all in a dynamic, supportive, and safe environment. With the help of incredible instructors, students can fulfill their dreams and spearhead a new generation in aviation!

How data sciences and AI are transforming airline operations

These have been pivotal years for data, AI, and machine learning in engineering and airline operations. A great transformation is underway. Are you ready?

Airline operations, such as boarding, are trying to keep up with current demands by adopting more advanced tech for daily tasks. Technology has changed airline operations as a whole, including how companies interact and communicate with customers. Everyone involved in flying and data science creates and executes strategic decisions and workflows. Likewise, access to real-time data is helping pre and post-flight operations such as ticketing, luggage check-ins, boarding, and other aspects of transportation be more efficient—improving the customer experience while also benefiting profit margins.

What are data science, machine learning, and AI?

Data science is a process of developing systems that can gather and analyze information to help people solve problems and challenges. On the other hand, machine learning is a branch of data science that focuses on using data and algorithms to imitate how humans learn, gradually improving its accuracy. You can find machine learning in Netflix, smart home systems, Nest, monitor health systems, and healthcare.

According to Rice University, “AI is a sub-discipline of computer science focused on building computers with flexible intelligence capable of solving complex problems using data, learning from those solutions, and making replicable decisions at scale.” Therefore, AI is used to create and learn patterns from data which then is used to develop predictive models. Data scientists use AI to understand data more comprehensively for better decision-making.

Revenue management and flight routes

One of the ways in which the magic of these new technological advancements is being put to work is in revenue management (RM). RM uses data to determine how to sell products at a fair cost, in the right places, and at the right time—based on customer behaviors and market targeting. AI also helps to decide on destinations and adjusts flight prices accordingly; thus, assisting the airlines to not only stay competitive but in helping give their customers what they want.

Flight routes are another way to take advantage of these tech tools. Scientist Konstantin Vandyshev from Transavia’s Revenue Management department stated that: “To define air routes, specialists have to analyze data and make decisions based on the insights. When researching a demand for a destination among different customer groups, they can rely on such data sources as search history and macroeconomic factors (e.g., GDP).”

Speeding up the boarding process

Many airports and airlines use AI to speed up the boarding experience and defuse chaos. For example, Southwest Airlines is using data science to help with their boarding process by collecting real-time feedback and monitoring boarding through trial and error; in other words, monitoring the boarding process according to who boards first and the speed at which they do so. How are passengers behaving, what is causing specific triggers, and what solutions can be implemented to fix any potential delays immediately?

Delta is another airline that has rolled out a fantastic biometric system to scan passengers' faces and match them with border control databases. These self-service solutions can create a safer and faster flow in the boarding process.

According to Analytics Vidhya, "In 2018, U.S. passenger airlines were losing on an average of $74.29 per minute due to delays. The U.S. Department of Transportation calculated that delays caused by plane servicing accounted for 5.8 percent of all delayed flights." However, by using real-time information, airline employees can monitor how long processes such as fueling, cargo, catering, and other operations take and help evaluate how to proceed more efficiently and speedily.

Other uses of AI and data

Not only are these incredible tech tools helping speed up the boarding process and the operations mentioned above, but they’re also aiding in monitoring fuel consumption by collecting information from each flight and performing a deep analysis to help identify saving and efficiency opportunities. Likewise, air traffic control automation is a computer program that plays a hand in air safety by automating rudimentary air traffic control planning and decision-making functions, allowing airlines to plan, make decisions, and act on them more successfully.

Lastly, maintenance can rack up costs incredibly fast and cause costly delays. However, by implementing data solutions and predictive analytics, support teams can determine problems faster and find solutions more efficiently, thus, reducing long-term expenses associated with such maintenance.

Briana Brownell, CEO of PureStrategy Inc, states: “I see many opportunities! For instance, to optimize operations, including adding, changing, or removing routes, setting flight times, pricing, and product offerings. Ultimately, success is driven by having a deep understanding of different customer segments and where new market opportunities exist.”

It’s no secret that the world is changing with incredible vigor with the help of data science and machine learning alike, speeding up and automating operations. These cognitive technologies help us make sense of data and streamline areas such as maintenance, customer service, internal operations, tasks, and airline management, amongst others. And they are just getting started.

Sexual health in the Medicare patient

Your sex life doesn't have to be boring or end because your body changes or age.

As you age, so does your body, muscles, comfort levels, and mental ability, and what’s more, the way we see ourselves also changes. Older adults may also be living with other physical and mental conditions, which can create disconnection in their sexual lives. According to the National Institute on Aging, “Two common changes that older adults experience are related to the sex organs. The vagina can shorten and narrow, and the vaginal walls become thinner and stiffer. For most, there will be less vaginal lubrication, and it may take more time for the vagina to lubricate itself naturally. These changes could make certain types of sexual activity, such as vaginal penetration, painful or less desirable.”

Likewise, men's impotence (erectile dysfunction) can also be a significant change within a male body. However, ED should not stop you from asking your doctor about ways of maintaining a firm and longer-lasting erection. ED is a common occurrence and can often be dealt with by using medicine and/or testosterone.

On the other hand, Menopause can also affect a female’s sexual life, causing them to experience hot flashes and mood changes during this new transition. Menopause in females can also cause sexual interest to peak or drop. In addition to these changes, certain illnesses and medicines can also make it more difficult to live a life with sexual pleasure.

However, this should not discourage you from living a sexual life; instead, it can offer you and your partner(s) a wonderful chance to get to know each other's pleasure points, and improve your sexual relationship, not only with them but with yourself.

The American Sexual Health Association states that sexual health is the ability to embrace and enjoy our sexuality throughout our lives. Sexual health goes beyond sexual pleasure; everyone is entitled to access resources and the freedom to talk about any experiences with doctors and others. According to the National Council on Aging, “sexual health is critically important as we age. First, it allows us to create and maintain emotional intimacy and a sense of closeness with our partner. Sex has also been shown to help reduce stress by releasing a hormone that helps us feel more relaxed.” Being sexually healthy is also closely intertwined with our overall health. For example, engaging in regular sex can reduce our risk for high cholesterol and even lower blood pressure.

Talking about sex might be fun, but it also involves talking about STI/HIV. Studies from the CDC show that the elder community and the elderly LGBTQ+ community are more likely at risk of contracting an STI. According to the National Resource Center on LGBT Aging, “Older adults have unique age-related biological risk factors, such as vaginal dryness. Vaginal dryness can make penetrative sex uncomfortable and also increase the likelihood of vaginal abrasions,

which makes transmissions of STIs more likely. Erectile dysfunction may increase the difficulty of using condoms. As a result, some men may not use condoms during sex.”

Older adults still need to get tested for STIs, STDs, AIDS, etc. While shame and fear may be accompanied with having a sexually transmitted disease, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Ensuring that you and your partner are free of STIs and STDs is an essential step to being sexually active in the safest ways possible.

Here are some approaches to living a more healthy sexual life (they may not be for everyone, so make sure you explore options that feel comfortable for you and your partner):

●  Use condoms and mouth protection during sexual intercourse and other sexual activities.

●  Don’t be afraid to use sex toys!

●  Don’t share sex toys, and make sure to wash them after every use.

●  Use the lube that is best for you.

●  Vaginal dryness can be more common in older females (as medication can shift the pH levels in that region). Use a water-based lubricant.

●  Communicate your needs, and disclose any pain (discomfort, surgeries, hard no’s, and triggers) to your partner.

●  Know your sexual partner’(s) background.

●  Get creative with different sexual positions and use physical aids for support if

necessary.

●  Watching ethical porn that is inclusive (either with your partner or alone) can help give

you ideas and spark sexual arousal and desire.

●  Talk to your healthcare provider about any pains or concerns you may have related to

your sexual organs.

Learning to embrace yourself fully and adapting to a new sexual lifestyle can be challenging but well worth it. You can start by self-exploring and talking to a sexology therapist who is sex-positive to regain your sexual confidence. The journey can be long, especially if you are experiencing new changes in your body all at once, living with a physical or mental ailment, taking medications, or just undergoing surgery. However, the journey is worth it and comes with many rewards.

Your sex life doesn't have to be boring or end because of your body changes or age. You can still have as much fun, if not more! Sexual health is essential at any age, and it can be fun to discover how to fulfill it in new ways.

To find more information about sexual intimacy in the elderly community, please visit the National Insitute of Aging. Most importantly, have lots of safe fun!

Aviation advancements: A year in review

From safety to new systems, infrastructures, tools, engines, and more, 2022 was an incredible year for aviation growth.

Indeed, 2022 was an excellent year for aviation advancements and general aviation technology, with some of the biggest winners in the industry being businesses. Likewise, we saw numerous companies fighting for sustainability, working with AI, and optimizing airports to be smarter using bioptics and greener products, methods, and systems.

Avionic Tech
Over 30 new products and methods were introduced in the industry, significantly benefiting general aviation operators; among the most popular were new aircraft systems, flight operation analysis, and optimized connectivity in planes. For example, the Astronautics AeroSync is one of the most groundbreaking tools in general aviation. Launched in 2022, this new Wireless Airborne Communication System provides data and health monitoring for operators and in-flight cabin connectivity for passengers alike.

Avionica's miniAID new aircraft interface device is also making great waves! According to the Vice President of Products and Services, Scott Ridge, the interface “Allows two-way connectivity from your connected aircraft to your Electronic Flight Bag (EFB), with the wireless built in and the cellular built in, this connects your EFB to the aircraft operational data. A very specific application that is often used is an aircraft moving map.”

New Certification

This year, new advances in air mobility also had a tremendous impact on the aviation industry’s eVTOL developers and the companies behind the planes. With new rules and regulations established by the FAA, the certification pathway for an eVTOL aircraft changed, now placing them under Section 21.17, previously created for a special class of power-lifted aircraft such as sailplanes and drones. Under this section, pilots will have to change certifications and undergo additional training.

Sustainability

Hydrogen has been all the rave lately. With many companies such as Rolls Royce conducting tests with electric and hydrogen aircraft flying, we are now closer to creating more sustainable engines and fuel that will lower costs and help bring a more green approach to aviation.

AI and machine learning

Perhaps one of the most fun changes in aviation being applied worldwide is Artificial Intelligence. AI and other such technology are helping the overall security, check-in routines/procedures, retail, parking, and more. On the manufacturing side, these new technologies can help find engine issues/failures timely, and error-free while also helping with durability, creating better pieces, and reducing both time and costs. At the same time, machine-automated solutions can make designing and maintaining planes even better.

Smart airports and self-service

Smart airports or semi-smart ones are here! The pandemic pushed us to adopt new solutions to help keep passengers, pilots, and our crews safe. For example, if you are traveling through some airports, you might see self-service kiosks with facial recognition and biometrics, such as CLEAR.

CLEAR's innovative identity technology powers faster, easier, and more secure identification process experiences at hotels, stadiums, and offices, amongst others. With CLEAR, you only have to identify yourself with a boarding pass and fingerprint/iris identification. The TSA PreCheck also offers a faster and more convenient security check by omitting the steps of removing your shoes, coats, laptops, and whatever else you have on you.

While all these changes were absolutely groundbreaking, the aviation industry is always moving faster than light producing new tools/technologies. It is safe to say that since 2020 (known as the worst year for the industry) to now, several of the issues that plagued the industry, the impact of the pandemic, and user/passenger demands have significantly been resolved.