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New relief grant targets disaster-affected independent restaurants

2025-09-06T07:01:00

(BPT) – The IRC and Chase Disaster Relief Fund ensures essential resources reach restaurants in hardest-hit communities, giving owners a chance to serve again.

Resilience isn’t just a business strategy; it’s a way of life for independent restaurant and bar owners across the country. The past 12 months have been marred by natural disasters, during which the restaurant industry has opened their doors to first responders, provided food to those in need and supported other businesses in their communities.

But who comes to the rescue when these same businesses are the ones in crisis? Independent restaurants and bars are hugely important to local communities, and they’re significant drivers of the U.S. economy. They account for nearly 70% of the restaurant industry, but these businesses, especially those in disaster-prone regions, need access to solutions that can help them manage costs and stay afloat.

According to a recent study from the Independent Restaurant Coalition (IRC) and Chase, more than three in five (60%) independent restaurants in disaster-prone regions have suffered direct financial loss in the past 12 months. Worse, the recent string of hurricanes, wildfires and floods have left kitchens shuttered and businesses on the brink, as the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) estimates that 40% of small businesses never reopen after a natural disaster. The National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI) reports that disaster-related closures caused more than $1 billion in lost revenue in 2024.

Still, hope is not lost for these entrepreneurs: The new IRC and Chase Disaster Relief Fund is accepting applications from Sept. 3-Oct. 3, making it possible for restaurants nationwide to access support as they work to recover.

“Restaurants are often among the first in their communities to lend a hand. Thanks to Chase, we can finally do something to help businesses who have sacrificed so much for their neighbors,” said Bobby Stuckey, partner and master sommelier of Frasca Hospitality Group and IRC co-founder. “Independent restaurants support first responders, feed the hungry and support other businesses in the communities they serve. Chase understands that, which is why we are proud to collaborate with them on programming that advances the work of these vital businesses and helps educate the public on their importance.”

The IRC and Chase Disaster Relief Fund provides independent restaurants and bar owners with essential financial relief so they can address immediate needs to stay in business. Restaurants interested in applying must complete an eligibility screener to confirm they meet basic requirements, including being independently owned, operating fewer than 20 locations nationwide and having sustained direct disaster-related damage within the past 12 months.

The urgent need for relief in hard-hit communities

The stakes for independent restaurants and bars remain higher than ever, especially in disaster-prone regions like Southern California, the Southeast and Midwest. In cities such as Los Angeles, New Orleans, Tampa and Kansas City, the effects of severe weather are felt not just in physical damage, but in the emotional and economic toll on business owners, their teams and the communities that depend on them.

The Southern California wildfires earlier this year destroyed dozens of restaurants. One month after the fires, businesses in Malibu that reopened were losing 50% to 85% of their revenue due to fire damage and road closures. A single tornado earlier this year in Iowa inflicted $12.2 million in damages and decimated 90% of a local business district. North Carolina is still recovering from historic flooding last year, with costs exceeding insurance coverage for many small establishments.

Many of these restaurants operate with slim margins and limited safety nets. They often lack the reserves to withstand even a week’s closure, making every disruption a potential existential threat. Yet, it is precisely because of these challenges that the commitment from the Independent Restaurant Coalition and Chase stands out.

“Independent restaurants anchor neighborhoods, support local famers and employ more people per square foot than any other brick and mortar industry,” said Cheetie Kumar, chef/owner of Ajja, Raleigh, North Carolina, and IRC Board vice president. “When natural disasters devastate a community, government funds are scarce, and standard insurance policies don’t cover floods or loss of business due to citywide utility interruptions. This can be an extinction event for small businesses that operate on razor-thin margins. The $3 million Disaster Relief Fund creates a lifeline that gets money in the hands of restaurants quickly in a time of desperate need.”

Since its founding in March 2020, the IRC has championed the needs of local restaurant owners and workers when they need it most. They have been at the forefront of advocating for independent restaurants and bars in moments of crisis, whether navigating the challenges of the pandemic, mobilizing after regional disasters or providing resources and a unified voice for operators nationwide.

“Independent restaurants are the heart and soul of our communities and their teams are on the front lines when disaster strikes,” said Erika Polmar, executive director of the IRC. “The IRC and Chase Disaster Relief Fund is about equipping these businesses with the tools and support they need to persevere, rebuild and continue serving their neighborhoods.”

Standing together to keep restaurants and communities thriving

The launch of the fund is timely because, as natural disasters continue to grow in frequency and severity, so too does the need for targeted relief. Losses from disaster-related closures impact not only owners and employees, but also the supply chains, farmers and local businesses that rely on a thriving restaurant industry.

Applications for the IRC and Chase Disaster Relief Fund are open now and close Oct. 3. Restaurant owners are encouraged to apply if they have experienced disaster-related damage in the past year. The hope is that by providing timely, targeted support, more independent restaurants will be able to continue their traditions of service, creativity and community connection — even in the face of adversity.

“Independent restaurants bring people together, drive local economies and give neighborhoods their unique character,” said Chris Stang, head of Lifestyle and Dining at Chase. “We’re proud to work with the IRC to make an investment in the future of this industry and help ensure small businesses have the resources they need to grow while continuing to serve their communities.”

For more information about eligibility and how to apply, visit www.independentrestaurantcoalition.com/DRF.

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Easily renovate your bathroom and kitchen with one appliance

2025-09-05T20:33:00

(BPT) – As home prices continue to rise, many homeowners are choosing to stay and put their time and money into renovating their existing homes. According to a survey by This Old House, 48% of homeowners have renovation plans for 2025. Of those planning to renovate, two groups stand out: millennials and baby boomers.

Two generations with different priorities

When broken down by generation, millennials are leading the home renovation trends. In fact, the survey found that of those homeowners planning to renovate, millennials made up 60% of the group.

Millennial home renovations are largely focused on making their current home match their lifestyle with projects that boost home enjoyment, style and quality of life.

While boomers are less likely to pursue home renovations, their requests for age-in-place (AIP) renovations are on the rise. According to an article by the National Association of Home Builders, 75% of industry leaders say that requests for AIP features have significantly or somewhat increased in the last five years. Also, 56% of remodelers are currently involved in home modification work relating to AIP.

Renovations all generations agree are important

Regardless of age, This Old House found that the most common spaces homeowners plan to improve are bathrooms (53%) and kitchens (51%), two high-traffic areas. Because these areas see the most use, bathroom and kitchen renovations can improve homeowners’ daily comfort and boost a home’s value.

Another feature that younger and older generations are prioritizing is utility upgrades. America’s housing stock is aging — with the median age of owner-occupied homes sitting at 41 years — and with it, major system replacements have become more common. For example, according to a Houzz report, nearly 30% of 2022 renovators replaced plumbing systems, often including installing new water heaters.

This isn’t surprising since conventional tank water heaters generally last about 6-12 years. That’s why many homes built in the mid-2000s are now due for replacement of their original systems.

How tankless water heaters make bathroom and kitchen renovations simpler

Given that bathroom and kitchen renovations are top projects for younger and older homeowners, replacing a water heater is essential. While homeowners could replace their old conventional water heater with a similar yet newer model, a more energy-efficient option is a tankless water heater.

As the name suggests, tankless water heaters don’t require a storage tank that must be continuously heated. Instead, tankless water heaters like Noritz EZ Series Pro models flash-heat water on demand.

Noritz EZ Series Pro tankless water heater mounted on a wall in the garage.

With a tankless water heater, homeowners will never run out of hot water, and they can save on utility costs. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, for homes that use 41 gallons or less of hot water daily, on-demand water heaters can be 24%–34% more energy efficient than conventional storage tank water heaters. For homeowners who want to save money, run a more eco-friendly house or both, a tankless water heater can help them achieve this critical home upgrade.

There are other home renovation benefits that tankless water heaters offer. They take up less space than a tank water heater — leaving more room for other renovations — are easy to install and have a longer life expectancy. Compared to storage water heaters that last 10-15 years, tankless water heaters can last more than 20 years. Because of their modular design and easily replaceable parts, a tankless water heater can last even longer. To learn more about tankless water heaters, visit Noritz.com.

Hot water on demand without breaking the bank

One thing homeowners should keep in mind when considering a tankless water heater is the cost. Installing a tankless water heater is a long-term investment that can net homeowners savings, but it’s also a pricy upfront cost. That said, some programs can make this home upgrade more affordable.

“Many homeowners don’t know that there are local, state and federal agencies that offer rebates and tax credits for energy-efficient upgrades,” said Emily Logan, Director, Utility Data and Programs at EcoRebates. “By taking advantage of these programs, homeowners can save on their water heater upgrade, leaving more money for other home renovations.”

That said, it’s important to look into rebates and tax credits now. Some federal energy tax incentives, like the Section 25D Residential Clean Energy Credit and Section 25C Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit, will be phased out after June 30, 2026. If you’re a homeowner who is considering upgrading your bathroom and kitchen with a tankless water heater, visit Noritz.com/rebates to find applicable savings programs.

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Get the Facts Before You Enroll in Medicare

2025-09-05T08:01:00

(BPT) – Medicare comes with important decisions — and areas that often need explanation. For instance, many people think Medicare is free or that it covers everything, including long-term care and routine dental or vision — but that’s not the case. Enrollment isn’t automatic for everyone, and missing your Initial Enrollment Period could lead to penalties unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period. Understanding what Medicare actually covers — and when and how to enroll — can help you avoid surprises and choose the right plan for your needs.

Infographic

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How camaraderie helps bring veterans home

2025-09-04T10:31:00

(BPT) – Sept. 11, 2001, left a huge mark on the U.S. and changed the life trajectories of many people, including Army National Guard veteran Antoinette Wallace. Before 9/11, she had never considered joining the military. Antoinette was applying to colleges, narrowing her options and considering a legal career. That all changed.

“I was in high school when 9/11 happened,” Antoinette said. “I was a senior at Curtis High School in Staten Island, so I witnessed everything that morning. I saw the first plane hit and thought it was an accident, but when I saw the second plane hit, I wondered what was going on. Then I watched the towers collapse. This all gave me the resolve to join the military.”

While only in eighth grade on Sept. 11, Gabriel Vasquez was already moved to respond.

“I saw smoke coming from the towers from my classroom,” said Gabriel. “In the coming months, New York City was the most patriotic I had ever seen, with flags everywhere. I knew I had to do something to serve my nation.”

From service members to civilians

About 4 million men and women served on active-duty in the first 10 years following 9/11. Like many, Antoinette and Gabriel enjoyed the natural camaraderie they built with other service members.

Recapturing that sense of belonging and friendship, on top of managing physical and mental health challenges, made transitioning back to civilian lives difficult.

“You’ve been completely changed, and you will never be the same again,” Antoinette said. “I wanted things to return to ‘normal’ and be a typical early 20-something with a social life. But trying to connect with new people, especially civilians, is tough.”

When Gabriel left the military after the birth of his son, he also missed the built-in social life and found making authentic connections difficult.

“When I left the Marines, I lost that brotherhood and camaraderie,” he said. “Finding it again felt impossible.”

Luckily, Antoinette and Gabriel found a place where they belonged and resources that made a return to civilian life more manageable through Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP).

Committed to veterans

WWP started in 2003 to provide comfort items to injured service members coming home from conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq. Since then, the nonprofit has evolved to provide programs and services that help post-9/11 veterans by bringing them together, helping them find the right civilian career and establishing programs to empower veterans to address their mental health so they can thrive for a lifetime.

“I was at the Veterans Affairs hospital when I heard about Wounded Warrior Project from fellow female veterans,” Antoinette said. “The organization really caught my attention, so I signed up. I wanted to connect with other veterans so much and Wounded Warrior Project made that possible. Everyone embraced me at my first event, and I felt so comfortable.”

During his time in college, Gabriel also heard about WWP through word of mouth, but initially didn’t know he could join.

“I didn’t know I was eligible because I thought you had to be severely disabled,” Gabriel said. “I have physical injuries, but I still have all my limbs.”

Gabriel, a member of Wounded Warrior Project, riding a bike.

WWP serves veterans with visible and invisible wounds. Once he realized that, Gabriel joined WWP and found the camaraderie he had missed during his time as a Marine.

Beyond the opportunity for social connections with like-minded people, Antoinette and Gabriel found other avenues of support through WWP.

“The Physical Health and Wellness program has been very helpful for me,” said Gabriel. “Having access to dietary information and learning things like how to stretch and work out properly have made my life easier.”

Never alone

One thing that Antoinette and Gabriel have learned from their experiences with WWP is that they don’t have to walk their journey alone.

“There is help out there,” Antoinette said. “If you are a veteran or know one, there are organizations like Wounded Warrior Project that can help in your recovery. While you might doubt your eligibility, take the first step toward healing by reaching out.”

Wounded Warrior Project Resource Center in Jacksonville, Florida

To learn more about how WWP services and programs can help you or veterans in your life, visit WoundedWarriorProject.org.

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Elevate your tailgate with these 4 simple tips

2025-09-04T07:01:00

(BPT) – National Tailgating Day is coming up! If you’re a frequent tailgate host — whether you gather outside of the stadium or in your living room — you probably have your own game day traditions, but it may be time to call an audible and change your strategy.

This football season, be open to new ideas that can take your tailgate to the next level. With just a few adjustments, you can make your football parties so memorable that your friends, family and fellow football fans will be begging you to host a tailgate for The Big Game later this season.

Not sure where to start? Check out these four tips to help you turn your tailgate into a championship-winning touchdown.

1. Double down on decorations

Show your team spirit with team-themed decorations! You can, of course, find official merch with your team name and logo, but don’t be afraid to get creative.

When shopping, look for tablecloths, cups, balloons and banners in your team’s primary and secondary colors. Head to your local craft store and find stickers, permanent markers and paint to turn these seemingly plain items into bespoke party decorations. Short on time? Print out themed signage, menus and rally banners, turn boxes into party displays or get creative with food spreads that mirror footballs, fields and jerseys — all the small details will help set the scene and get your guests in the zone.

Table set with plateted chicken wings, cups, napkins and box of Bota Box wine.

2. Switch up your beverages

Beer and cocktails are traditional game day beverages, but they’re not the only drink options. This year, add boxed wine to your football shopping list. Wine may seem a bit formal for a sports gathering, but a box of wine is a game-changing addition to any fan or tailgater’s playbook.

Choose a high-quality boxed wine like Bota Box for your next game day. Its portable, durable and no-fuss packaging is shatterproof, doesn’t require a corkscrew and is recyclable, making it perfect for any gathering at home or in the stadium parking lot. For large gatherings, each 3-liter box offers the same amount of wine as four bottles and a pourable spout makes it easy for guests to serve themselves a glass. Heading to a stadium tailgate? Toss a few Bota Box “Minis” in the cooler to add variety. Each 500ml “Mini” carton holds the equivalent of three glasses of wine in a lightweight, recyclable sipper that’s just right for sharing with friends before kickoff.

3. Get everyone involved with football game predictions

It’s always fun to try and guess how the game will play out. Make prediction sheets for your guests. This activity can foster team spirit, encourage social connections and ramp up the fun before the game starts.

There isn’t one right way to make a prediction sheet. However, think about questions like who will score the first touchdown and what the final score will be. Don’t forget to have a prize for the winner, like football memorabilia!

Pro tip: If you’re strapped for time, you can even download prediction sheets online to use for your tailgate.

Small white plates with three varieties of chicken wings with dip, celery, and glasses of wine.

4. Serve up a selection of homemade wings

Switch up your usual burgers and hot dogs this tailgate season and try cheffin’ up wings at home. You can stick to one flavor or provide a selection of sauces for a customizable tailgate experience. Make sure to offer a mix of beverages to bring out the saucy, savory flavors of your wings and take the tasting experience to the next level.

Pro tip: Do you have a wing recipe you’re proud of? Consider entering the “Wing It with Bota” recipe contest for a chance to win an all-expenses-paid trip to the Bay Area for a recipe cook-off at Guy Fieri’s Flavortown Tailgate, and compete for the ultimate grand prize: two tickets to attend The Big Game. To learn more, visit BotaBox.com/Football.

Are you ready for kickoff?

Whether you’re watching in person or at home, make your next tailgate one to remember. With these four tips, you’ll be ready for game day, no matter if your team wins or loses.

Please drink responsibly. Learn more at responsibility.org.

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Your lunchtime playbook: Easy lunch routines that save time

2025-09-04T06:01:00

(BPT) – Waking up can be a whirlwind of activity, from making breakfast and packing lunches to getting everyone out the door on time. Luckily, finding a moment to prepare a delicious and healthy lunch for your kids without sacrificing precious sleep is easier than you think.

With a few simple strategies, you can transform lunch-packing from a last-minute chore into an easy routine. Here’s how to get ahead of the morning rush and start your day feeling calm, organized, and ready for anything.

1. Pick lunch themes for faster decisions

Boost your creativity and simplify meal prep by choosing a weekly theme like “Taco Tuesday,” “Breakfast for Lunch,” or “Italian Favorites.” Once you have a theme, it’s easier to choose ingredients, prep in batches, and avoid the morning “What should I pack?” scramble. Kids also love the fun twist, making them more likely to eat what you send.

2. Build your own lunch station, and let your kids pick their weekly lineup

During your weekly meal prep, slice and wash fruits and veggies, prep sandwiches, and portion snacks into easy grab-and-go servings. By getting the work done ahead of time, weekday mornings become a breeze — just hand your kids their lunchboxes and let them choose their favorites.

Store items in Hefty® Slider Bags to help them stay fresh. The easy-to-use slider is perfect for independent eaters to open and close on their own at school. Plus, the expandable bottom makes filling easier, and the secure Clicks Closed seal lets you know it’s shut tight.

3. Freeze drinks to keep food cool

Freeze a juice box or water bottle the night before to double as a lunchbox ice pack. By lunchtime, it will be perfectly chilled and ready to drink while keeping the rest of the meal fresh. You can also freeze foods like PB&J sandwiches, muffins, or yogurt tubes to help keep lunch cool and make meal prep even easier.

4. Lean into leftovers

Leftovers aren’t just for Friday night dinners. You can easily pack leftovers for lunch! For busy parents, leaning into leftovers can be a huge time saver and a simple way to ensure your child is eating a healthy, nutritious meal. Plus, you’ll save on food waste, helping you save money on your grocery bill.

As soon as dinner is over, pack your leftovers into Hefty Slider Bags, so you don’t have to worry about portioning food out later.

5. Fill up the freezer with frozen meals

During your weekly meal prep, consider making frozen meals for lunch (or even dinner). You can cook multiple dishes in bulk, like breakfast sandwiches, pizza bagels, and taco meat, then freeze them for quick, ready-to-go meals. You’ll have plenty of lunch options, and your kids can even choose which ones they’d like to eat the most.

Once you’re done cooking, store the meals in a large, resealable bag like Hefty’s Gallon sized Freezer Slider Bags. It clicks closed to help keep your food fresh and secure.

Pro tip: Keep some large slider bags on hand. These Hefty Jumbo Storage Slider Bags are perfect for anything life throws at you, from muddy jerseys and sparkly art projects to family-sized snack mixes.

Are you ready for an easier school year? Using these simple tips, you can save time, money and streamline your morning for a positive start to your day.

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How to turn a roof replacement into a design moment

2025-09-04T07:01:00

(BPT) – Keith Bynum and Evan Thomas, cohosts of the HGTV series “Bargain Block,” are experts at transforming properties and boosting curb appeal. A home’s roof is a big part of the design duo’s roof transformations that pair curb appeal with powerful protection. Below are excerpts from a conversation with Keith and Evan about using color to make the most of a roof replacement.

What makes the roof such a good place to make a design statement?

(ET) Representing a large amount of a home’s exterior, the roof provides an ideal space for enhancing curb appeal. However, a roof also needs to be designed to stand up to the elements to help protect one of a consumer’s biggest investments — their home.

New shingles give homeowners lasting peace of mind. They know they’ve made a home improvement that will last for a long time.

(KB) But there is also curb appeal to think about. In many cases, a home’s roof is the single largest thing you see when you pull up to a house, so it can have a huge effect on a home’s appearance.

What are some roof design trends you are seeing in the market?

(KB) There are a lot more color options to choose from today. Owens Corning offers homeowners the option of so many dimensional colors. It’s kind of unbelievable how color options have expanded. When I was a kid, we had cedar, tan and black. Now, you get to have this luxurious moment with the roof and all of the shingle color selections. And luxury is something people expect now — even first-time home buyers.

(ET) When you have so many options, selecting a color gets easier. The undertones in the Owens Corning TruDefinition® Designer shingle line are neutral, but the pops of color and dimensional textures in the granules make roof color more interesting.

What advice do you offer to homeowners for choosing a shingle color?

(KB) Color tools help homeowners make a beautiful decision that still feels safe. Matching a shingle with a monotone or selecting a complementary color makes it work. I ask people, “Tell me about colorful things that you love,” and that gets them going down a color path. Online style boards and color tools let people see how unexpected color pairings come together. I love the Owens Corning Duration® Designer shingles in Black Sable, which give the richness of slate. And I also love Owens Corning Duration®Designer shingle colors Storm Cloud and Pacific Wave!

I used to carry a color wheel. If you’re not confident, you just look across the wheel and there’s a complementary color on the opposite side.

(ET) As long as you are coordinating colors well, you can use almost any color and it will look good. It’s about making sure that you have the right colors paired together. And so, whether you go with a Prairie Craftsman or an Italianate look, it will still look good because you are pairing things properly.

How can a contractor assist homeowners in selecting a roof color?

(KB) A color consultation is a good place to start. Contractors in the Owens Corning Roofing Contractor Network can offer design tools to help inspire a color decision. When looking at shingle boards, removing the color options homeowners don’t like makes it easy to focus on colors that may pair well.

In our business, we’ve proven that you can work design into the home’s improvement and still get the performance and budget you’re looking for. The mood boards Owens Corning put together help contractors and homeowners make use of a proven color process.

What does a color consultation involve?

(KB) We ask people to tell us about themselves and about their house and that really helps personalize color. It also brings a sense of luxury design into the process.

(ET) Sometimes homeowners have a perception that a luxury design roof has to be unaffordable. Advances in asphalt shingles and color pairing mood boards provide an approachable design moment that gives homeowners a luxury look at an asphalt price point.

Learn more about Keith and Evan’s collaboration with Owens Corning and check out “Bargain Block” season 4, currently airing on HGTV.

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Check please! Early detection saves lives

2025-09-03T08:01:00

(BPT) – According to the American Cancer Society, 1 in 3 people will experience a cancer diagnosis in their lifetime.1 That’s the bad news. The good news is that due to advancements in treatment, along with preventive actions, cancer is becoming increasingly treatable. In fact, while cancer continues to be the second most common cause of death in the U.S., the cancer death rate fell 32% from 1991 to 2019.2

The reminders are everywhere: Early detection saves lives. But not only that — it can help protect families after diagnosis and into survivorship. According to a recent study from the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), the cost of a cancer diagnosis is on the rise, with an average monthly out-of-pocket health care cost that is $592.53 higher than those who have not been diagnosed. And for those whose diagnosis came early, stage 0, for example, average monthly costs are roughly 36% less than those diagnosed at stage 4.3

A graphic with a blue heart shape and type that says

Aflac wants to turn the everyday checkered pattern into a constant reminder to get checked for cancer.

So, how can we use these statistics to our advantage? Well, in addition to seeing the data everywhere, there are reminders all around us, part of the scenery, but often overlooked. Aflac recently initiated a multimedia campaign, including a video that ran on ESPN during the Aflac Kickoff Game on Aug. 31, to turn one of these images, a simple checkered pattern, into a valuable prompt. If you see a check, think about getting checked for cancer.

There is some urgency here. With all of the information that can help people help themselves, many Americans still aren’t checking the box when it comes to checking for cancer. In fact, according to Prevent Cancer Foundation, 65% of American adults report not being up to date on at least one routine cancer screening,4 meaning that they are often flying blind, rather than having priceless knowledge that could help save their lives, or more often provide the peace of mind of knowing they are healthy and safe.

The Check for Cancer message isn’t just for those typically associated with such a diagnosis. While it is true that cancer is still a disease of age, new guidelines recommending screenings for cancers like colorectal cancer at younger ages are having an impact. More adults aged 45-49 are getting screened, leading to a surge in early-stage diagnoses.5 That is a good thing, because this can lead to better outcomes and less expensive treatments.

Aflac’s powerful reminder for Americans to get checked for cancer comes from the heart, but its origins come from decades of experience and data that show that while treatments may be improving and more people are surviving, cancer remains a leading health concern. You have the power to help change that. Know your risks and get checked for cancer. For resources and information on screening guidelines and risk factors, visit Aflac.com/CheckForCancer. And please help us share the message. Post on social media using #CheckForCancer and Aflac will donate $5 to support childhood cancer care and research, up to $1 million.

1American Cancer Society, Lifetime Risk of Developing or Dying From Cancer, https://www.cancer.org/cancer/risk-prevention/understanding-cancer-risk/lifetime-probability-of-developing-or-dying-from-cancer.html

2American Cancer Society, Risk of Dying from Cancer Continues to Drop at Accelerated Pace, https://www.cancer.org/research/acs-research-news/facts-and-figures-2022.html

3JAMA Network, Estimated out-of-pocket costs for patients with common cancers and private insurance, page 1, https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2836518?resultClick=1

4Prevent Cancer Foundation, https://preventcancer.org/news/65-of-americans-21-years-of-age-and-older-report-not-being-up-to-date-on-at-least-one-routine-cancer-screening/

5Wall Street Journal, A turning point in colon cancer: Young people are finding it earlier, https://www.wsj.com/health/healthcare/colon-cancer-screening-young-adults-5900a8a6?mod=Searchresults_pos1&page=1

C4C2522

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How Well Do Drivers Know Their Cars?

2025-09-03T14:01:00

(BPT) – For some drivers, their vehicle is just a means of transportation, but for others, it is a reflection of their own personality and, at times, even a partner for adventure. Hankook Tire’s latest Gauge Index Survey revealed new insights into how deeply connected Americans are to their vehicles, highlighting the emotional bonds and confidence drivers have in knowing their cars inside and out.

Drivers’ Emotional Connection

Most American drivers feel a connection to their cars, with over three-quarters of respondents saying they have some sort of emotional attachment. This bond isn’t uniform across generations, however — younger drivers, on average, feel a stronger emotional connection to their cars while older generations are more likely to think of functionality.

For the youngest generation on the road today, Gen Z, having a car creates a sense of pride: 43% of surveyed Gen Z drivers say they are proud of their cars.

More experienced drivers demonstrate an appreciation for their vehicle’s role in their day-to-day life. The majority of Millennial drivers (43%) say they are dependent on their vehicles. Similarly, when describing their car’s personality, Gen X (45%) and Boomers (50%) were most likely to label their cars as reliable and dependable.

Personalization to Match Personality

The connection that drivers feel with their cars can also be shown in how they personalize its interior and exterior, or even how they create a persona for their vehicle: One in four Americans has named their car, which is especially common among Gen Z (40%) drivers and those living in cities (35%). When it comes to accessorizing, most drivers personalize their cars with wheel or seat covers (27%) and performance upgrades (23%), tailoring their vehicles to match their own style and needs.

City drivers tend to customize their cars more than those in other areas: Nearly a third (32%) of drivers in urban areas have upgraded their car’s performance, including changes to their engine, exhausts and even tires, compared to less than a quarter of rural (20%) and suburban (19%) area drivers. Urban area drivers have also customized the look of their cars more than others, with nearly a quarter (22%) of city drivers having had aesthetic work done to their cars, compared to rural (8%) and suburban drivers (13%).

Knowing the Car Inside and Out

Getting to know your car is more than just how it looks and feels. Many drivers report they understand their vehicle’s performance and what it can handle. For example, 85% of all drivers say they know their car well enough to continue driving with the fuel light on. Exactly half of the drivers surveyed tend to fill up their tank before the light appears on their dashboard, yet more than a third (36%) say that they know their cars well enough to push those limits regularly.

Despite how many people say they know their cars’ fuel limits, running out of gas isn’t as rare as it might seem — almost half (46%) of all drivers say they have run out of gas before, and over half of those respondents say that it has happened more than once. More experienced drivers tend to pay closer attention to their fuel level, with three-quarters of all Boomers saying they have never run out of gas while driving, compared to 67% of Millennial drivers who have, and often more than once.

The blend of emotional attachment and practical understanding underscores a unique relationship that Americans have to their cars: Personalizing vehicles, naming them and knowing their quirks all point to a deeper, more meaningful connection that drivers have with their cars.

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5 simple tips to keep household expenses in check

2025-09-03T07:01:00

(BPT) – Whether you’re single or have a family, budgeting for household expenses can be challenging. Balancing necessary expenses like rent or a mortgage payment, groceries, utilities and health care costs with discretionary spending like shopping for clothing, eating at restaurants and going to the movies can seem almost impossible.

However, with just a few adjustments to your spending habits, you can simplify your budget. These five simple tips can help you keep your household expenses in check so you can save money and have some cash left over for fun experiences.

1. Meal prep and batch cook to reduce grocery waste

Prepping meals for the week is a great way to spend less money. When you prepare meals at home, you won’t have a reason to spend money on food at the cafeteria, coffee shop or a restaurant. Plus, cooking multiple meals ahead of time can help you reduce grocery food waste!

Batch cooking — cooking a lot of food for multiple meals ahead of time — allows you to buy ingredients in bulk, which can cost less than buying food items one at a time or in smaller quantities. Plus, not only are you saving money, but meal prepping on the weekend means you are also spending less time cooking during the week.

2. Bundle internet and streaming services

Paying for internet and subscription streaming services individually can quickly add up. Instead of deciding which subscriptions to keep or cancel, consider looking for bundles. Check with your internet or phone provider to see if they offer discounts or bundles for multiple services and streaming platforms.

3. Enroll in low-cost, affordable vision insurance coverage

Taking care of your vision can be costly. However, don’t let the cost keep you from taking care of your sight. You can enroll in an individual vision plan to help reduce vision-related expenses and stay on top of eye health.

A great vision insurance option that can help you save money without compromising your well-being is a VSP® Individual Vision Plan. When you enroll in a low-cost VSP vision plan, you can easily manage exams, glasses and contacts for everyone in the family — even when employer insurance isn’t available.

There are several benefits to purchasing an individual vision plan through VSP. Unlike other vision coverage options, you can purchase a customizable vision insurance plan at any time. No need to wait for open enrollment or deal with waiting periods. VSP Individual Vision Plans offer same-day use of benefits once you are enrolled; use your plan the same day you buy it!

You can also save an average of $350 annually, which includes 20% savings on additional glasses or sunglasses, including lens enhancements, from a VSP network doctor within 12 months of your last exam. Plus, VSP members have access to over $3,000 in savings with Exclusive Member Extras. Compare vision plans and find the best fit for you.

4. Shop secondhand or hold clothing swaps

Shopping for clothing can be expensive, but it doesn’t have to be. Instead of hitting your local department store, find thrift and consignment stores in your area. By buying gently used clothing, you can pay a fraction of the cost of a new item while refreshing your closet. Plus, you’ll be doing your part to keep clothing out of the landfill.

Another option is to get new-to-you outfits by organizing clothing swaps with friends. Ask everyone to gather their unwanted clothes and set a day, time and location to hold the swap. Not only will you get free clothing, but you can also spend time with friends.

5. Choose energy-saving home upgrades

If your electric bill is one of your highest utility expenses, consider upgrading your home appliances with energy-saving models. When shopping for a new fridge, washing machine or dishwasher, opt for an Energy Star certified model. By choosing an Energy Star appliance, you can save 10-50% compared to conventional models, including older models like the one you may own.

You don’t have to give up the things you love to stay on top of your budget. Try these five easy money-saving tips and see how far your budget can stretch.