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3 expert tips to help you strategize for long-term financial planning

2025-01-15T16:01:01

(BPT) – Whether you’re in the middle of your career, starting a new job or looking ahead to retirement, financial planning may be one of those items on your to-do list that keeps getting pushed aside for more pressing and immediate things. Regardless of where you may be on your financial journey, it’s important to lean on experienced professionals who can help you make the right choices, at the right time, to assist with things like banking, investments or business planning.

The new year — a time when some people may be receiving a bonus, tax refund, etc. — is an ideal time to strategize, taking a fresh look at your financial situation, needs and timeline so you can set yourself up for success with any potential excess liquidity you may be receiving.

Here are three tips that can help you on the journey to better financial planning, from the experts at J.P. Morgan Wealth Management.

1. Identify your ambitions. Being thoughtful or intentional about your goals may feel challenging, but in time, it can help set you up for a clearer future when it comes to your wealth and earnings. For instance, what do you want your money to do for you and for others? Do you have an ample emergency fund and sound investment plan? Are you looking to set up a fund for a child or grandchild’s education? Are you using your resources to reflect your personal values and support causes you care about, or to ensure your loved ones will have financial security in the future? Knowing your top priorities can help focus your efforts, ultimately leading to more security and satisfaction down the road.

Remember, your goals and ambitions may change over time, so it’s recommended to review your goals regularly, then meet with a banker and financial advisor to adjust them as needed. To help you start identifying your financial goals, consider the benefits of establishing a personalized relationship with a banker through Chase Private Client.

Woman talking with a banker in a bank

2. After identifying your goals, create a path to help achieve them. As with anything in life, once you set your goals, you need a concrete plan for how to accomplish them. Working with a team of professionals, like Chase Private Client Bankers and J.P. Morgan Private Client Advisors, will help you determine how to do this, including ways to help maximize your wealth.

3. Get a great team in your corner. Handling your finances isn’t easy. There’s no “one size fits all” approach. Chase Private Client offers you a personalized relationship through access to a dedicated Chase Private Client Banker who will help you manage your everyday banking needs by connecting you with the right specialists across your personal, home lending, or business banking needs. Your Chase Private Client Banker is your primary contact, who ensures you get the most of your relationship including access to the 24/7 U.S.-based service team with skilled specialists to help with money movement, account servicing, online assistance, and more. As a Chase Private Client you will have access to a J.P. Morgan Private Client Advisor who can help you prioritize your goals and design a custom financial portfolio that reflects what’s most important to you. Your Chase Private Banker will collaborate with your J.P. Morgan Private Client Advisor to plan with you for your financial future.

“Chase Private Client” is the brand name for a banking and investment product and service offering, requiring a Chase Private Client Checking account.

Bank deposit accounts, such as checking and savings, may be subject to approval. Deposit products and related services are offered by JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. Member FDIC.

Investing in securities involves risks, and there is always the potential of losing money when you invest in securities. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results.

Asset allocation/diversification does not guarantee a profit or protect against a loss.

J.P. Morgan Wealth Management is a business of JPMorgan Chase & Co., which offers investment products and services through J.P. Morgan Securities LLC (JPMS), a registered broker-dealer and investment adviser, member FINRA, Opens overlay and SIPC, Opens overlay. Insurance products are made available through Chase Insurance Agency, Inc. (CIA), a licensed insurance agency, doing business as Chase Insurance Agency Services, Inc. in Florida. Certain custody and other services are provided by JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. (JPMCB). JPMS, CIA and JPMCB are affiliated companies under the common control of JPMorgan Chase & Co. Products not available in all states.

INVESTMENT AND INSURANCE PRODUCTS ARE:
NOT FDIC INSURED NOT INSURED BY ANY FEDERAL GOVERNMENT AGENCY
NOT A DEPOSIT OR OTHER OBLIGATION OF, OR GUARANTEED BY, JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A. OR ANY OF ITS AFFILIATES
SUBJECT TO INVESTMENT RISKS, INCLUDING POSSIBLE LOSS OF THE PRINCIPAL AMOUNT INVESTED

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LinkedIn’s top 3 hiring tips for small businesses in 2025

2025-01-15T08:01:00

(BPT) – If you’re a small business owner, you may be looking for top talent in the new year. A new survey by LinkedIn finds 66% of small businesses in the U.S. are planning to hire more in 2025 than they did in 2024. It signals good news for the market, and for your business, but with an increase in hiring comes increased challenges.

That’s because hiring the perfect fit for a small company is crucial and time consuming. It’s not just about finding the right skills and experience for the job, but culture fit, too. It takes time to source candidates, sift through resumes, schedule and conduct interviews, and handle all hiring-related tasks, on top of managing the day-to-day demands. As a small business owner, you know that on any given day, you can be operations manager, accountant, marketing pro and one-person HR department all rolled into one.

“We know every hire a small business makes is critical to their business goals,” says LinkedIn’s Director of Product Management Andrew Chimka. “They need simple, time-saving solutions that are intuitive to use and help them find qualified candidates fast, and with confidence.”

Here are LinkedIn’s top tips to help small businesses find the right candidate so they can focus on doing what they love most: growing their business.

Showcase what makes your company unique

Showcasing your brand is critical to attracting top talent. Emphasize why job seekers should choose to work for you by highlighting your unique company culture, flexible work hours, or perks like employee discounts. You know what makes your company a great place to work. Potential hires need to know it, too.

Demonstrating benefits like skills development opportunities or online learning programs will also help hirers attract candidates in the new year. New LinkedIn data finds opportunities to learn new, in-demand skills is the #1 factor professionals say will help them grow in their career.

One of the ways you can stand out is through LinkedIn’s new Premium Company Page offering, which helps small businesses grow their audience and credibility on LinkedIn. Premium helps companies like yours grow page followers 6.7 times faster to stand out to prospects.

Consider a skills-based hiring approach

Today, the skills needed to do many jobs are changing. More businesses are recognizing the need to adopt a skills-based hiring approach: hiring for skills and abilities, not only degrees and past job titles.

A skills-based approach allows you to widen your pool of applicants to include candidates that may have slipped under the radar due to factors like whether they have a degree. This allows you to find new, untapped talent, lessening the need to compete with other companies for the same candidates.

Taking a holistic approach to skills by hiring for technical expertise and soft skills, such as communication and collaboration, also enables small businesses to identify well-rounded candidates who can support various business needs.

Just because the size of a business is small doesn’t mean its talent pool needs to be.

Use new LinkedIn AI hiring tools to help post a job and hire!

LinkedIn finds that 72% of hirers at small businesses in the U.S. say they are spending up to 15 hours a week just sifting through applications. That’s a lot of time not devoted to growing and running the business.

This is where AI can come in — as a tool to take on some of the heavy lifting that comes with hiring the right candidate.

LinkedIn is launching an AI-assistant within LinkedIn Jobs, built on its unique professional platform insights of over 1 billion members, 69 million companies and 41,000 skills. Hirers can get help with tedious hiring tasks using the AI-assistant, such as drafting job descriptions, posting a job, identifying qualified candidates and inviting them to apply.

The AI-assistant then helps evaluate applicants based on the hirer’s qualifications and creates a shortlist of the most qualified candidates for the hirer to review so they can make the right hire with confidence. Small businesses like Hestus, Givers, and Part and Sum are already using it today.

Interested? Visit linkedin.com/smbhire to express interest in joining LinkedIn’s beta program.

In today’s fast-changing work landscape, small businesses face numerous challenges — but hiring shouldn’t be one of them. LinkedIn, with the largest engaged professional network in the world, is uniquely positioned to help. In fact, 86% of small businesses globally get a qualified candidate within 24 hours of posting a job on LinkedIn. By leveraging innovative strategies to attract top talent, from highlighting your brand to using new AI tools, your small business will be better positioned to thrive in 2025.

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Busting 5 myths on common barriers to higher education

2025-01-15T09:01:00

(BPT) – The high cost of tuition in traditional higher education settings leads many potential students to question the value of that investment. Whether you’ve just graduated high school or you’re a working adult aiming to enhance your career, you may be wondering what you can expect if you decide to advance your education with an undergraduate or graduate degree or certificate.

The good news is, there are more opportunities than ever before to help you get a degree online around your schedule — or start by taking individual courses designed to help you upskill in a variety of fields. For example, through Colorado State University Global (CSU Global), you can access dynamic, flexible and affordable career-relevant bachelor’s, master’s and certificate programs in a wide range of fields, designed for working adults and post-traditional learners.

As the first 100% online, institutionally accredited public university in the U.S., CSU Global is focused on student success as their top priority. As part of the Colorado State University System, CSU Global sets the standard for quality and innovation in higher education through expert faculty recognized as industry leaders and trained in working with adults in an online learning environment.

CSU Global offers information about its programs to help combat 5 common myths that could be holding you back from achieving your educational and career aspirations.

Myth no. 1: A degree isn’t worth the money

This myth is pervasive; Pew Research recently found that almost one-third (29%) of adults said the cost of a four-year college degree is not worth it. While it’s understandable that rising tuition costs at many schools can cause concern, the truth is that for many careers today, some level of higher education gets you a great return on investment (ROI). According to the CSU Global 2024 ROI Survey of 1,185 undergraduate and graduate students, a significant increase in income was achieved by students after completing their programs, among other benefits.

For example, undergraduate alumni self-reported that:

  • Over 92% of them are currently employed.
  • 77% hold a position in their field or a related field of study.
  • Their median income increased by 4% to 58%, depending on the program.

Graduate alumni self-reported that:

  • 94% are currently employed.
  • 83% hold a position in their field or a related field of study.
  • Their median income increased from 30% to 83%, depending on the program.

As a bonus, for those who decide to go to CSU Global, there are no fees, and their tuition lock guarantee means what you pay on day one will be the same for your final course.

Myth no. 2: I don’t have time to go back to school

A four-year degree can seem like a huge investment in time, especially for traditional programs that require putting your life on hold to attend school in person full-time. In fact, a study by the Strada Education Foundation revealed that over half of prospective students of all ages (56%) would be more likely to enroll in a degree program if the school offered flexible scheduling.

To make school possible for working adults and those with family obligations, CSU Global provides the flexibility busy working students need to complete their degrees. Students can complete their classwork at their own pace, on their own time and from the comfort of their own homes — or wherever they have access to an internet connection. The CSU Global online format allows students to balance education with both their work and family commitments. In addition, CSU Global’s programs include accelerated 8-week courses that start every four weeks, and students can start and stop as they choose. In fact, a CSU Global student can take up to 12 months off and retain their student status with no penalty, which is ideal for working adults and parents who may have conflicting seasonal commitments.

Myth no. 3: I can’t work and pursue a degree at the same time

The truth is a majority of students are also currently working, whether full or part-time. According to the Lumina Foundation, 64% of college students work and about 40% of them work full time, somehow managing to juggle all the demands on their time.

Because of the flexibility of 100% online degree and certificate programs, online institutions like CSU Global offer a variety of avenues to achieve your educational goals, even while you’re working. In addition, many businesses today encourage their employees to pursue upskilling opportunities to keep themselves and their companies competitive, so it’s worth asking your supervisor or HR department about incentives, accommodations or tuition assistance benefits available from your workplace. This could help you save money and get the approval to maximize flexible scheduling when needed. For those who are worried about work deadlines conflicting with coursework deadlines, CSU Global students enjoy a generous late policy that allows assignments to be completed a week late with no grade penalty.

Myth no. 4: Online degree programs aren’t as good or as relevant as in-person programs

In fact, students are increasingly attending online degree programs, leading them to be more widely accepted everywhere. The most recent available data from the National Center for Data Statistics reveals that 26% of students in 2022 were studying exclusively online, and that number has only increased. Global Market Insights estimates that e-learning will grow by 14% between 2023 and 2032, and Upskillwise claims enrollment in online programs has risen every year over the last decade.

The key to identifying the most relevant, high-quality online program is finding an accredited institution that addresses the skills and knowledge you’re looking for, and researching their instructors, majors and certification programs. You can confirm whether any institution is accredited through the U.S. Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.

If you’re looking to learn and develop the most up-to-date, in-demand skills for your field, it’s important to know that CSU Global degree programs are designed in collaboration with industry experts, and use job data to determine the knowledge and capabilities those industries and fields require. The courses offer career-relevant coursework and assignments that can be shared with colleagues and supervisors in the workplace.

Learners also gain experience using the tools they need to be successful in their new positions. CSU Global offers program pathways that include embedded internship opportunities, to allow learners to gain work experience while earning collegiate credit. And if you’re interested in pursuing industry certification exams to further your career, CSU Global helps prepare students to take third-party exams, leading to certifications and licensures valued by employers.

Myth no. 5: I won’t get to interact with experienced instructors in an online program

If you’re concerned about the actual college experience during a fully online program, you may be interested to hear that 81% of student respondents report online learning is better than or equal to on-campus learning, according to BestColleges.com. To ensure that your experience is equally positive, research the instructors in your field at any program you’re interested in, and ask about opportunities you’ll have to interact with them throughout your education. You’ll want a program that encourages student-instructor interactions via individual virtual meetings plus email, phone and other platforms so all your questions are answered, and that you’ll get the most out of each class.

Courses at CSU Global are taught by qualified instructors with academic credentials and industry experience in their areas of expertise who provide workplace insights. In addition to serving as subject matter experts and industry leaders, they’re also trained to understand and meet the needs of online students. Faculty are available to students via email, phone or virtual meetings to answer questions, and they have a 24-hour response time. Faculty also post messages to the class via the online portal and interact with students weekly in Discussion Boards and through feedback on Critical Thinking Assignments.

In addition to the valuable interaction students will have with their skilled and knowledgeable instructors, CSU Global provides fully online, comprehensive academic and career services including tutoring, writing consultations, career counseling, resume and cover letter assistance, and support from a dedicated financial aid advisor.

No need to hold back on your professional aspirations: These common myths about higher education are officially busted. Learn how you can reach your educational and career goals at CSUGlobal.edu.

This inforgraphic is called Busting Myths About Higher Education. It discusses the 5 myths surrounding higher education including: A degree isn't worth the money, no time for school, can't work while studying, online degrees aren't relevant, and no instructor interaction. The infographic has a link to additional information https://csuglobal.edu/

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A Breath of Fresh Air: One Woman’s Journey Living with COPD

2025-01-13T08:01:00

(BPT) – “I was out of breath all the time.”

For Julie, it was a diagnosis that came as a shock — and had a huge impact on her life. She started having exacerbations that were so bad, she said, “just about anything” made it difficult for her to breathe. And, when she made it to her doctor, the diagnosis she received surprised her: Julie had chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

COPD is a progressive disease that can damage the lungs and makes it harder to breathe. People living with COPD can experience constant, persistent cough and difficulty breathing when doing daily activities, such as getting dressed in the morning, walking up the stairs, or going to work.

Julie, who is sharing her story in partnership with Sanofi and Regeneron, had worked as a server at a restaurant in western Florida for 17 years before her COPD became too much and she had to quit. She tried various treatments but was still having symptoms. “The doctor had said that I needed oxygen at night, so I did that for a couple of years. The most difficult was when I had to use a rescue inhaler what seemed like every hour on the hour because I couldn’t breathe well at all.”

Between the impact on her daily life and inhaled treatments that just weren’t doing enough, Julie knew that she had to make a change. So, when she heard about a clinical trial for a new type of COPD medicine, she jumped at the opportunity to participate.

Fast forward six months and Julie noticed a difference after taking Dupixent® (dupilumab) as part of a clinical trial. Dupixent was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in September 2024 as a prescription medicine used with other medicines for maintenance treatment of adults with inadequately controlled COPD and a high number of blood eosinophils (a type of white blood cell that may contribute to your COPD). In two clinical trials, Dupixent reduced the number of flare-ups and helped patients breathe better with long-lasting lung function improvement over one year.

Dupixent is not used to relieve sudden breathing problems and will not replace an inhaled rescue medicine.

Do not use if you are allergic to dupilumab or to any of the ingredients in Dupixent. The most common side effects in patients with COPD include injection site reactions, common cold symptoms (nasopharyngitis), high count of a certain white blood cell (eosinophilia), viral infection, back pain, inflammation inside the nose (rhinitis), diarrhea, gastritis, joint pain (arthralgia), toothache, headache, and urinary tract infection.

Please see additional Important Safety Information below.

Julie’s personal experience in the Dupixent clinical trial breathed fresh air into how she approaches her life. “Before I started taking it, I couldn’t walk very far. I would get so out of breath walking the length of my house,” she explained. “Then I started taking Dupixent and I was able to do more and walk farther around the block.” Individual results may vary.

Fifty-one percent of patients that received Dupixent in the clinical trials reported an improvement in their day-to-day lives*.

Encouraged by her improved lung function and less exacerbations, Julie adopted a dog — something she didn’t think would be an option for her. “Now, because I can breathe better, I can have a dog that doesn’t need a fenced-in yard. I can go outside with her in the morning and take her out and we can go on walks.”

In the U.S., approximately 300,000 people live with inadequately controlled COPD and a high number of eosinophils like Julie, and many continue to experience exacerbations, or flare-ups, despite taking inhaled medicines. Upon diagnosis, a blood test measuring the amount of eosinophils can help provide insights into a patient’s COPD and their management plan. Although there’s been some progress in the treatment of COPD, there has been a strong need for novel treatment approaches, particularly for patients whose disease is not well controlled on inhaled therapies alone. Dupixent is a first-of-its-kind add-on maintenance treatment that can reduce the number of flare-ups and can help improve breathing.

Julie is excited for the possibilities that have opened up for her. “I can go to the store and walk around and not be so out of breath like I used to be. I even got a job which I thought was pretty good for a 78-year-old!”

*Assessed by a quality of life tool called SGRQ that measures COPD symptoms physical activity, emotional well-being, and social functioning. In two trials, 51% of patients who received Dupixent + standard of care therapy experienced a quality of life improvement vs 43% and 47% with placebo + standard of care therapy. In one trial, results are descriptive; no definitive conclusions can be made.

Learn more about Dupixent here.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION & INDICATION

Do not use if you are allergic to dupilumab or to any of the ingredients in DUPIXENT®.

Before using DUPIXENT, tell your healthcare provider about all your medical conditions, including if you:

  • have eye problems.
  • have a parasitic (helminth) infection.
  • are scheduled to receive any vaccinations. You should not receive a “live vaccine” right before and during treatment with DUPIXENT.
  • are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known whether DUPIXENT will harm your unborn baby.
    • A pregnancy registry for women who take DUPIXENT during pregnancy collects information about the health of you and your baby. To enroll or get more information call 1-877-311-8972 or go to https://mothertobaby.org/ongoing-study/dupixent/.
  • are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known whether DUPIXENT passes into your breast milk.

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

Especially tell your healthcare provider if you are taking oral, topical, or inhaled corticosteroid medicines or have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and also have asthma. Do not change or stop your other medicines, including corticosteroid medicine or other asthma medicine, without talking to your healthcare provider. This may cause other symptoms that were controlled by those medicines to come back.

DUPIXENT can cause serious side effects, including:

  • Allergic reactions. DUPIXENT can cause allergic reactions that can sometimes be severe. Stop using DUPIXENT and tell your healthcare provider or get emergency help right away if you get any of the following signs or symptoms: breathing problems or wheezing, swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue or throat, fainting, dizziness, feeling lightheaded, fast pulse, fever, hives, joint pain, general ill feeling, itching, skin rash, swollen lymph nodes, nausea or vomiting, or cramps in your stomach-area.
  • Eye problems. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any new or worsening eye problems, including eye pain or changes in vision, such as blurred vision. Your healthcare provider may send you to an ophthalmologist for an exam if needed.
  • Joint aches and pain. Some people who use DUPIXENT have had trouble walking or moving due to their joint symptoms, and in some cases needed to be hospitalized. Tell your healthcare provider about any new or worsening joint symptoms. Your healthcare provider may stop DUPIXENT if you develop joint symptoms.

The most common side effects in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease include injection site reactions, common cold symptoms (nasopharyngitis), high count of a certain white blood cell (eosinophilia), viral infection, back pain, inflammation inside the nose (rhinitis), diarrhea, gastritis, joint pain (arthralgia), toothache, headache, and urinary tract infection.

Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away. These are not all the possible side effects of DUPIXENT. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch, or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

Use DUPIXENT exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. It’s an injection given under the skin (subcutaneous injection). Your healthcare provider will decide if you or your caregiver can inject DUPIXENT. Do not try to prepare and inject DUPIXENT until you or your caregiver have been trained by your healthcare provider.

Please see accompanying full Prescribing Information including Patient Information.

INDICATION

DUPIXENT is a prescription medicine used with other medicines for the maintenance treatment of adults with inadequately controlled chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and a high number of blood eosinophils (a type of white blood cell that may contribute to your COPD). DUPIXENT is used to reduce the number of flare-ups (the worsening of your COPD symptoms for several days) and can improve your breathing. DUPIXENT is not used to relieve sudden breathing problems and will not replace an inhaled rescue medicine. It is not known if DUPIXENT is safe and effective in children with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease under 18 years of age.

Dupixent logo

US.DUP.24.11.0062 11/2024

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A Greener Home Starts Today: Save on ENERGY STAR Appliances with New Home Rebates

2025-01-13T08:01:00

(BPT) – Energy efficiency isn’t a trendy buzzword — it’s quickly becoming the new normal for everyday Americans across the country. Beginning this fall and throughout next year, consumers will be able to save up to $1,680 on new, energy-efficient home appliances through a federal program called the Home Electrification and Appliances Rebate (HEAR) program.

What is the Home Electrification and Appliances Rebate (HEAR) program?

The HEAR program — part of the Inflation Reduction Act — is a new program that provides Americans in participating states with a 50-100% rebate on certain energy-efficient products. Depending on your household income, you might be eligible for HEAR rebates for several appliances and home upgrades, with a full list available here. In particular, we encourage households to invest in products that are ENERGY STAR® certified, which is required for several appliance categories.

What is the ENERGY STAR®certification?

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) established the ENERGY STAR® certification program to help consumers safely and easily identify energy-efficient products that provide cost savings and help protect the environment. Think of it as a “Good Housekeeping” seal of approval for home appliances. The EPA indicates that for a typical household, choosing ENERGY STAR® products translates to $450 less in energy bills every year, while allowing consumers to enjoy high-quality appliances with advanced performance.

How do ENERGY STAR® home appliances benefit my household?

  1. Energy savings: The primary benefit of ENERGY STAR® certified appliances is energy savings, which directly translates to cost savings.
  2. Cost savings: In addition to about $450 in annual savings on energy bills, ENERGY STAR® appliances are eligible for HEAR rebates, which include up to $840 for electric cooking products and up to another $840 for heat pump dryers. Given the long-term savings of ENERGY STAR® appliances, these products might even pay for themselves over time.
  3. Environmental benefits: ENERGY STAR® appliances reduce greenhouse gasses released into the environment, which helps to combat climate change by lowering households’ carbon footprint.

What are some ENERGY STAR® products I can purchase today through the HEAR program?

  1. Electric cooking products: ENERGY STAR® certified electric cooking products — like induction stoves — are 18% more efficient, on average, compared to standard models. These products improve your home’s air quality, reduce the stress on your HVAC system, and could even help you boil water twice as fast. Samsung offers over 10 induction cooking products — from ranges to cooktops — that meet the ENERGY STAR® certification and are eligible for HEAR rebates.
  2. Laundry appliances: ENERGY STAR® laundry products — such as washers, dryers, and combos — use less power without sacrificing performance or functionality. Under the HEAR program, you can receive rebates for appliances with a heat pump dryer, such as Samsung’s all-in-one Bespoke AI Laundry Combo or the Electric Ventless Hybrid Heat Pump Dryer.

Whether you are continuing or just beginning to seek out energy-efficient appliances for your home, consider purchasing Samsung’s ENERGY STAR® certified home appliances for the best in savings and sustainability. Visit Samsung’s home appliance page to learn more about the options available to you.

This piece is Samsung Electronics America sponsored content.

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Riding Wave Season Savings for Your Next Cruise

2025-01-13T10:31:00

(BPT) – Wave Season isn’t just trendy travel terminology, but how savvy vacationers maximize their dollars when booking their big trips! Starting just after the holidays from January through March, Wave Season is the cruise industry’s version of a Black Friday or Cyber Monday sale. As an already cost-effective way to see the world, cruise lines and travel providers are offering even more opportunities for deals, letting passengers customize their trips with new activities, new dining experiences, and even new destinations. Whether this is your first time exploring booking a trip during Wave Season or you’re a seasoned voyager on the high seas, there are numerous ways to save before you set sail. In fact, AARP members can utilize an array of benefits and discounts that can help curate the perfect vacation.

“Cruises are having a big moment, and rightfully so as they can be excellent options for travelers wanting to see a lot of sights and get tremendous value on their vacations. And, to coast your way into even more savings, don’t forget to take advantage of Wave Season’s exclusive discounts and offerings that may not be available any other time to book a cruise this year,” said AARP Services Director of Travel Steve Guilday.

You can keep your wallet and your peace of mind afloat with these money saving tips before venturing out to sea.

Planning Made Easy. Leave stress at home through some advance preparation so once you arrive at your port the only step is climbing aboard. When you book through a one-stop-shop like AARP Travel Center Powered by Expedia, you can plan your entire vacation from start to finish. With exclusive deals, seasonal offers, and special savings on hotels, car rentals, and cruises, members can get a $50 gift card of their choice when they book a flight vacation package and receive up to $100 in onboard credit on select cruises to the Caribbean, Alaska, Europe and more.

Well before embarking on any international cruises, check that your passport is up to date. Some countries require that your passport is valid for six months past your departure date, so you don’t want to be caught in a bind. As an AARP member, if you need to act fast on renewing, you can save 15% on expedited U.S. passport and travel visa services with RushMyPassport. RushMyPassport offers expedited options for all passport types and customer support to simplify the process of obtaining travel documents.

Cruise Your Way to Happiness … and Savings. Take in a deep breath of the salty air. Feel the ocean breeze across your face. Explore a new destination or enjoy one of your favorites as you sail from port to port. With an AARP membership, take advantage of Holland America Line’s fleet of 11 ships with more than 500 sailings a year to all seven continents, including cruises in Alaska, the Caribbean, Mexico and Europe. Additionally, you can receive up to $200 in onboard credit per stateroom, based on the length of the cruise and the stateroom chosen. Or set sail with HX: Hurtigruten Expeditions where you can experience some of the most remote and awe-inspiring places on the planet from Antarctica to Alaska and British Columbia or the Galápagos Islands to the Scottish Isles, and more. AARP members and any travel companions can circumnavigate the world and receive a 5% discount on all cruise fares. You can also receive a €100 per person onboard credit. This offer will be stackable with all in-market HX offers. Terms and conditions apply.

Voyage Along Inland Waterways. Travel to the city centers and towns that dot picturesque riverbanks, exploring diverse landscapes and the fascinating history and cultures. You can sail the rivers of the world from the waterways of Europe to the Nile in Egypt, India’s Ganges, and the Mekong in Vietnam with Grand European Travel. AARP members save up to $100 in addition to any promotional savings on all-inclusive luxury river cruises. Plus for a limited time, members can sail into savings with up to 30% off per person on select 2025 departures. Enjoy an unmatched experience in luxury river cruising with Uniworld’s all-inclusive vacations to Europe, Egypt, and more, when you book by March 31, members can save an extra $100.

By Land or Sea? Try Both. Did you know that surf and turf isn’t just a dinner menu item? Combine your ocean or river cruise with a land or rail tour and get the best of both. You can use your AARP membership to save 5% on more than 40 rail and cruise vacations with Vacations by Rail in popular destinations like France’s famous waterways, the Rhine and Danube Rivers, Alaska’s Inside Passage and trans-Atlantic crossings. Collette also helps AARP members save up to $250 on select cruises and tours. This is a great way to explore more of the world. Sail the Galapagos, spend Christmas on the Danube, cruise to the edge of the world in Patagonia, sip coffee in a corner cafe in Paris and more.

Regardless of where you cruise for your next vacation, an AARP membership can help you save. For those of you looking to take advantage of Wave Season, learn more about additional cruise discounts for AARP members by visiting https://www.aarp.org/membership/benefits/campaigns/cruise/.

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Reclaim your kitchen space: New refrigerator design reduces clearance constraints

2025-01-13T08:27:00

(BPT) – If you live in a home or apartment with minimal kitchen space due to its wall and cabinet configurations, you probably know how challenging it is to replace major appliances. For example, most newer refrigerators are designed with larger kitchens in mind, so they simply won’t fit in smaller kitchen spaces. This leaves you without many options unless you’re willing to undergo a complete kitchen renovation.

Looking for another solution to your small kitchen dilemma? You’re in luck. With the new LG Counter-Depth MAX™ Refrigerator with Zero Clearance™ (LF24Z6530S), you no longer have to worry about your refrigerator sticking out beyond your current counters or not being able to fully open the doors. And even better, you’ll be able to enjoy a stylish, contemporary design that’s built for today’s living, available in stainless steel to complement various kitchen styles. In addition, its restyled bar handles and the freezer pocket handle combine for easy opening and an attractive look.

The Counter-Depth MAX™ Refrigerator with Zero Clearance™ features an innovative zero clearance hinge system and 45% thinner doors that take up less space (compared to previous LG Counter-Depth MAX model LRYKC2606), letting you install the refrigerator in tight spaces and still fully open both doors.* This reduces the need for extra space while maximizing the refrigerator’s square footage and achieving a sleek, built-in look — without the cost of a built-in.

A contemporary solution for minimal kitchen spaces

If you’ve had to opt for older, smaller refrigerators in the past simply to cope with your limited kitchen space, you’ve probably been frustrated not only by the minimal storage offered by these fridges, but also their complete lack of modern features and technology.

However, the LG Counter-Depth MAX™ Refrigerator with Zero Clearance™ gives you the best of both worlds: You’ll appreciate the sleek design that will complement any kitchen, and you’ll also enjoy the larger interior than traditional counter-depth models. At the same time, you’ll benefit from its advanced cooling technology, which will give you the cutting-edge performance you expect from today’s models.

For example, this refrigerator offers Smart Cooling Plus™ Technology, which will maintain the optimal temperatures and humidity needed for enhanced food freshness. The Slim SpacePlus® Ice System also increases the shelf and door bin space, and the dual ice makers automatically create three types of ice: standard ice cubes, crushed ice and slow-melting round Craft Ice™ — so you can have plenty of ice on hand when you need it for entertaining large parties. You can even automatically increase its ice production with just a touch of the control panel, or through the LG ThinQ® app on your smartphone.

You can feel confident in your choice, because LG is ranked the #1 appliance brand in the U.S.** Discover how to achieve the sleek style you’ll love for your kitchen while also getting the storage space you need from LG’s largest-capacity Zero Clearance™ refrigerator at LG.com.

*For optimal performance, LG recommends 0.16 inches (4 mm) clearance between the sides of the refrigerator and the wall.
**Source: #1 Appliance Brand in the US | Source: OpenBrand Quarterly Consumer Survey – Units & Dollars, Major Appliances (AHAM Core 6) Q2-Q3 2024

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Coal plants are closing. What can be done with them?

2025-01-13T04:01:00

(BPT) – The next generation of energy technologies is coming online, delivering energy that is more affordable, reliable and cleaner than ever before. But what happens to the older generation of power plants as they reach the end of their operational lives? What if those closures directly affected your livelihood — or the economy of your town? This is the challenge facing the power industry today. Nearly a quarter of coal plants in the U.S. are scheduled to be shuttered by 2029, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration.

Many of these plants are the major employers in their small towns. What happens to those towns when the plants close? It means a loss of employment and it reverberates through all aspects of the community. Retail stores. Restaurants and diners. Everything in the local economy takes a hit when a major employer like a coal power plant closes.

But, what if those plants could be repurposed into something else? It would keep people working, the town diners hopping, the local merchants busy and everyone happy.

Coronado: A case study

That’s just what’s being studied at the Coronado coal power plant near St. John’s, Arizona, which is scheduled to be retired in 2032. In a joint blog, the Bipartisan Policy Center and Terra Praxis highlight that Coronado is part of a study to repurpose coal plants into nuclear power plants, which would not only help keep the local economy humming, but also power the region with energy.

The study conducted by The Idaho National Laboratory’s Gateway for Accelerated Innovation in Nuclear (GAIN) program highlighted significant regional economic and workforce benefits from transitioning the Coronado power plant to nuclear energy. GAIN compared the potential regional economic outcomes of allowing the existing plant to retire versus repowering it.

The findings suggest that a coal-to-nuclear conversion could prevent economic decline, help support regional growth and create additional employment opportunities, potentially surpassing the benefits of continued coal operations.

What’s happening nationwide

With nearly a quarter of the U.S. coal-fired fleet scheduled to retire by 2029, replacing retiring coal power plants with advanced nuclear, specifically small modular reactors (SMR), has been put forth as a strategy to maintain local employment and economic opportunities for existing energy workers and communities, while simultaneously meeting the growing demand for reliable and resilient power and pursuing national climate goals.

Of those plants that are scheduled to retire, the Bipartisan Policy Center reports 80% of evaluated coal plants have the basic characteristics needed to be repowered by an SMR, according to a Department of Energy study analyzing recently and soon-to-be retired coal plants.

That means they have the location, land use types, energy output levels and other factors needed to convert them.

Why do it?

Potential benefits of coal-to-nuclear projects

The Bipartisan Policy Center and Terra Praxis outline several possible key benefits to these projects. According to their research:

  • Nuclear energy provides firm, dispatchable clean energy, maintaining grid reliability while pursuing climate goals.
  • 77% of coal plant jobs are transferable to nuclear plants with no new workforce licensing.
  • Net increase of more than 650 jobs could be created in regions where SMRs repower retiring coal plants.
  • Jobs at nuclear plants provide higher wages compared to coal plants, which would boost local tax revenue.
  • SMRs can reuse coal plant transmission infrastructure, reducing SMR construction cost and avoiding some permitting challenges.
  • SMRs can reuse coal plant electrical equipment and steam-cycle components, which, combined with reuse of transmission and administrative buildings, can reduce SMR construction cost by 17% to 35%.

Challenges that remain

This effort isn’t without challenges. Some hills to climb include:

  • Coal plant retirement and SMR operation dates must be aligned for a smooth workforce transition.
  • Licensing and technological infancy create uncertainties for SMR construction timelines.
  • Some coal plant positions will require extensive retraining or licensing to transfer to a nuclear plant, including operators, senior managers and technicians.
  • Some states have laws restricting new nuclear development, which can limit overall coal-to-nuclear opportunities.

The Bipartisan Policy Center is a mission-focused organization helping policymakers work across party lines to craft bipartisan solutions. By connecting Republicans and Democrats, delivering data and context, negotiating public policy, and creating space for bipartisan collaboration, BPC helps turn legislators’ best ideas into durable laws that improve lives. Since 2007, the Bipartisan Policy Center has helped shepherd countless bills across the finish line.

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What’s in and what’s out for 2025

2025-01-10T07:01:00

(BPT) – Welcome to 2025! This new year is full of opportunities to improve your life and rethink your priorities. Do you know what goals you want to achieve this year?

If you’re thinking about improving your health and wellness, you’re not alone. According to a recent survey, 79% of people that make resolutions focus them on their health.1

Not sure where to start? Consider the following habits to kick and adopt in 2025. This year, you can meet your health and wellness goals. Remember, you should strive for progress, not perfection. Every change you make, big or small, brings you one step closer to a better, healthier you in 2025.

What to kick

Smoking is still the leading cause of preventable disease and death, with more than 480,000 deaths per year.2 Also, on average, smoking decreases your life expectancy. However, quitting smoking can add as much as 10 years to your life expectancy.3

Quitting smoking is easier said than done. Tobacco can be a difficult addiction to kick. However, you don’t have to quit smoking on your own. There are many resources at your disposal to help you stop smoking for good.

For example, visit your local CVS Pharmacy® to find smoking cessation products and resources such as gum, lozenges and patches designed to help curb your nicotine craving. As a leading health care organization, CVS® is the first national chain drug retailer to stop selling tobacco products in 2014.

As part of its commitment to helping consumers live a tobacco-free life, MinuteClinic®, the medical clinic located inside select CVS Pharmacy locations, created the START TO STOP® smoking cessation program, which provides individualized support to help patients quit smoking.

Dark haired woman wearing blue sweater and breaking a cigarette in half.

3 habits to adopt

1. Hydration: Staying hydrated is one of the simplest ways for someone to improve their health and well-being. Regular hydration can improve brain function and digestion, increase energy, prevent kidney stones and aid in weight management.4

To help you stay hydrated, keep a reusable water bottle on hand. You can even keep one at home, one in the car and one at the office, so you always have an easy way to drink water all day, every day.

Woman with a pony tail and wearing athletic wear, drinking water from a reuseable bottle.

2. SPF: Sunscreen isn’t just for the summer. Not only can sunscreen help prevent skin cancer, but using products with an SPF of 30 or higher can also help prevent premature skin aging, wrinkles and age spots caused by too much unprotected UV exposure.5

Get into the habit of using products with an SPF of 30 or higher year-round, not just on sunny days when you’re outdoors. For example, choose an SPF moisturizer to provide daily UV protection.

3. Sleep: Don’t underestimate the benefits of a good night’s sleep. Getting enough sleep can help people get sick less often, reduce stress, improve mood, attention and memory, and lower the risk of chronic conditions.6

If someone has trouble sleeping, going to sleep and waking up at the same time every day, even on the weekends, may help in getting into a better sleep routine. Before going to bed, people generally should lower the lights, turn off screens and do quiet, relaxing activities.

You may also need a sleep aid to help you drift off. If you’re interested in exploring sleep support products that may be right for you, CVS has a variety of options to consider.

Man wearing a blue t-shirt and sleeping in bed.

To learn more about the resources available to you to help with your healthy habits this year and get started on a tobacco-free life, visit the Stop Smoking Resource Hub at CVS.com.

Sources:

1. Gracia, Shanay. “New Year’s Resolutions: Who Makes Them and Why.” Pew Research Center. Access: www.pewresearch.org/short-reads/2024/01/29/new-years-resolutions-who-makes-them-and-why/.

2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “About Health Effects of Cigarette Smoking.” Access: www.cdc.gov/tobacco/about/index.html.

3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Benefits of Quitting Smoking.” Access: www.cdc.gov/tobacco/about/benefits-of-quitting.html.

4. National Council on Aging. “10 Reasons Why Hydration Is Important.” Access: www.ncoa.org/article/10-reasons-why-hydration-is-important/.

5. American Academy of Dermatology Association. “Sunscreen FAQs.” Access: https://www.aad.org/media/stats-sunscreen

6. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “About Sleep.” Access: www.cdc.gov/sleep/about/index.html. Them and Why.” Pew Research Center, 29 Jan. 2024, www.pewresearch.org/short-reads/2024/01/29/new-years-resolutions-who-makes-them-and-why/.

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Tips for creating the perfect outdoor kitchen

2025-01-11T03:01:00

(BPT) – With the growing trend toward creating outdoor living spaces, building an outdoor kitchen has never been more popular—or more attainable. Whether you love entertaining or simply enjoy dining outside, a well-designed outdoor kitchen can transform your backyard into the ultimate gathering spot.

One of the most versatile and durable options for building an outdoor kitchen is using Pavestone’s RumbleStone® Wall Blocks.

Why Choose Pavestone’s RumbleStone® Wall Blocks?

Pavestone’s RumbleStone® Wall Blocks are ideal for constructing outdoor kitchens due to their rustic charm, durability, and flexibility in design. The RumbleStone® collection is designed to mimic the look of natural stone, with a tumbled finish that provides an authentic, weathered appearance, making them perfect for both traditional and modern outdoor designs.

Here’s why RumbleStone® Wall Blocks are the go-to choice for your next outdoor kitchen project:

  1. Versatile Design Options
    Whether you’re creating a simple grilling station or a full-scale outdoor kitchen with countertops, storage, and a pizza oven, RumbleStone® blocks can be easily configured to fit your vision. The modular design allows for multiple layout possibilities, accommodating any size or shape of the outdoor space.
  2. Durability
    Made from high-quality concrete, these blocks are built to withstand the elements, ensuring your outdoor kitchen stays beautiful for years to come. RumbleStone® Wall Blocks are engineered to resist cracking, chipping, and fading, even in harsh weather conditions.
  3. Ease of Installation
    Pavestone’s RumbleStone® Wall Blocks are designed with DIY enthusiasts in mind. The easy-to-use system makes installation simple, whether you’re an experienced builder or a beginner. The blocks fit together seamlessly, requiring little to no cutting, and are available in a variety of sizes to meet your specific project needs.
  4. Timeless Aesthetic
    The natural look of the RumbleStone® blocks complements a wide range of outdoor environments and architectural styles. Whether your backyard is lush and green or sleek and modern, the rustic charm of the RumbleStone® Wall Blocks adds character and elegance to any outdoor kitchen setup.

Tips for Building Your Outdoor Kitchen

  1. Plan the Layout
    Start by considering the size of your space and the functionality you want from your outdoor kitchen. Think about your cooking preferences, how many people you want to entertain, and the appliances you’ll need—grill, refrigerator, sink, or pizza oven.
  2. Foundation is Key
    A level foundation is essential for the longevity and stability of your outdoor kitchen. Ensure you have a sturdy, flat surface before starting construction.
  3. Add Counter Space
    Countertops are vital for any kitchen, indoors or out. Consider using matching RumbleStone® wall blocks to create both the base and countertop, or pair the blocks with QUIKRETE concrete countertops for a custom look.
  4. Incorporate Seating and Dining Areas
    Make your outdoor kitchen an extension of your living space by adding comfortable seating. Consider building a bar or a dining area adjacent to the kitchen using additional RumbleStone® blocks (or Ladera Wall Blocks), allowing guests to relax while meals are being prepared.
  5. Lighting and Accessories
    Don’t forget to incorporate lighting into your outdoor kitchen design. Ambient lighting can create the perfect atmosphere for evening gatherings, and task lighting is crucial for cooking. Add some personal touches like built-in shelves, plant containers, or even a fire pit.

Beyond the savings of not hiring a contractor, a homeowner can really personalize an outdoor kitchen to fit their style and taste with a modular concrete block base accompanied by a concrete countertop. It can be customized with a grill, bar and mini refrigerator to accommodate any dining and entertainment event. Other homeowners may elevate the experience even more by installing LED lights, a sound system or other luxury features. Whether elaborate or basic, design possibilities are endless for outdoor kitchens.

Building an outdoor kitchen with Pavestone’s RumbleStone® Wall Blocks offers a beautiful, durable, and customizable solution for creating an outdoor space that’s perfect for entertaining or simply enjoying with your family. With its versatility, timeless appeal, and easy installation, RumbleStone® blocks allow you to bring your dream outdoor kitchen to life.

For more information on Pavestone’s RumbleStone® Wall Blocks and to explore design ideas, visit Pavestone’s website.