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5 New Year’s credit card resolutions

2024-12-20T07:01:00

(BPT) – If you’re just starting out and don’t have much credit history, the holiday season maxed out your current credit card, or unforeseen circumstances lowered your credit score, this is the perfect time to make New Year’s resolutions to improve your credit rating. Learning how to obtain and use credit cards wisely can make a difference in your lifestyle and future goals.

Here are some practical credit card tips to help you boost your credit score in 2025.

If You Have Little or No Credit History, Consider a Secured Credit Card

Potential creditors want you to have a positive credit history, but you can’t build a credit history without credit. So, how do you get around this catch-22?

One option is to open a secured credit card. Because it’s secured by a cash deposit, a secured credit card is less risky to card issuers and typically easier to get than an unsecured credit card, which is what most credit cards are. Should you default on a secured credit card, the card issuer can use the cash deposit to cover or minimize any losses.

Other than requiring an initial deposit, a secured card works pretty much the same as an unsecured credit card, including typically reporting your card activity to one or all three of the major credit bureaus. If you’re using a secured credit card to build a credit history, it’s important to verify that the card issuer does indeed report account activity before applying. There are some secured cards out there that don’t.

If you are set on an unsecured card, apply for one meant for people with an average or little credit history that can help you begin to build credit, like the Credit One Bank Platinum Visa. These cards typically come with a lower credit limit, but can, with smart usage, help build your credit history without requiring a deposit.

Apply for New Credit Sparingly

Every time you apply for credit, it typically generates a hard inquiry, which could lower your credit score by as much as 10 points. Say you apply for four credit cards in one week — that’s a potential 40 points your credit score could drop in seven days.

To avoid taking too many hard-inquiry hits, try seeing if you pre-qualify for credit cards on the company’s website. Doing this allows you to get a good idea of whether you’re likely to be approved without generating a hard inquiry. Just understand that pre-qualifying for a credit card does not guarantee you will be approved for it. To get a definitive thumbs-up or -down, you have to formally apply for the card.

Choose Credit Cards Wisely — and Make the Most of Them

Which cards you use makes a difference, especially when you want to get the most from the benefits or rewards they offer. The Credit One Bank Platinum X5 Visa is available to people with average-to-excellent credit who want to maximize their rewards earnings*. The Platinum X5 Visa gives cash back on every purchase, with premium reward opportunities on everyday categories like gas and groceries. Cash back rewards accumulate over time and can be used to lower your account balance, or to purchase merchandise and gift cards. In addition, X5 cardmembers can optimize cashback rewards by making purchases in categories with the highest reward levels — including necessities you spend money on every day*.

Pay Your Credit Card Bills on Time, Every Time

Payment history is the number one factor in calculating credit scores in the two most popular consumer credit scoring models. It accounts for 35% of your FICO® Score and 40% of your VantageScore®. If you want to positively influence your credit score, consistently pay your bills by their due date.

You don’t have to pay your outstanding balance in full each month to accrue a positive payment history — although, doing so should help save you money in interest and contribute toward making your debt more manageable. But you do have to pay at least the minimum amount due, and it must be received by the creditor by the payment due date for your payment not to be considered late or missed.

Lower Your Credit Utilization Ratio

Your credit utilization ratio is a mathematical expression of how much of your available revolving credit you’re using, and it’s another important factor in calculating consumer credit scores. To be safe, try to keep your credit utilization ratio below 30%, which means your outstanding balances should remain below 30% of your overall available credit. For example, if your credit card has a $1,000 limit, your outstanding balance should be no more than $300.

Learning to use credit cards wisely can take time, but it’s well worth the effort. Identifying financial goals and taking steps toward achieving them could be the most important resolution you make this year.

*Terms Apply. Visit creditonebank.com for more details.

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Top 2025 outdoor design trends

2024-12-20T01:01:00

(BPT) – Americans are spending more time in their outdoor spaces — and want to maximize those spaces. Studies show that nearly 90% of homeowners consider their outdoor areas to be important to their health and well-being. Design trends reflect that people are showing more interest in connecting with nature in their own backyard and enjoying the comforts of indoor living while gathering outdoors. This means creating environments that are comfortable, multifunctional and cost-effective.

The outdoor design experts at Belgard®, the trusted leader in hardscape solutions from pavers to retaining walls, share exclusive insights into 2025 outdoor design trends to help homeowners plan their dream outdoor spaces.

Privacy and spaces of solitude

As property footprints continue to shrink year over year, homeowners are looking for aesthetically pleasing ways to incorporate more privacy from neighbors or their surroundings. Decorative screen panels, pergolas, built-in planters and other structures can add elements of both beauty and functionality that provide a sense of solitude, even in urban environments.

Sound gardens and water features can further enhance a feeling of solitude by adding audible privacy from neighbors or street traffic. For example, even a simple fountain or water bowl can enhance the ambiance and help muffle sound.

Back yard privacy fence with pergola, patio, outdoor kitchen and bar area.

Shifting back to classic style

While minimalism remains a popular trend, there’s also been a shift back to a more classic style in indoor and outdoor home design. Mixed materials and warm colors such as beige and sepia are re-emerging, which lend themselves to a more traditional aesthetic.

With modular options from Belgard, a mix of different materials with multiple textures and sizes can create limitless possibilities while keeping with a classic design aesthetic. Because they’re available in many styles, shapes, and sizes designed to work together, a variety of paver patterns can be combined seamlessly to achieve any desired overall look.

Convenience in design

As outdoor spaces are now a must-have for homeowners, they must be convenient to access and offer the same amenities as the home’s indoor spaces. Homeowners are looking for their outdoor space to transition easily from the house to the built environment while offering the same modern conveniences of lighting, eating, Wi-Fi, quality furnishing and accessories.

Health and wellness

Using outdoor spaces to improve your well-being is a top focus for many people today. Americans are looking to be more balanced and in harmony with their environment, favoring the use of native plants and sustainable materials like permeable pavers, which promote better water drainage and reduce environmental impact.

Gardening is also a popular hobby that helps improve people’s feeling of well-being, so enthusiasts can opt for raised garden beds or planters to pursue their growing goals in their outdoor spaces. For example, Belgard offers options to create built-in planters as part of your overall hardscape design with its Belgard Artforms modular outdoor panel system. You can use the panels, which are sized in modular shapes, to quickly and efficiently construct planters, seating, outdoor kitchens, fire features and more.

By designing outdoor environments that support their health and wellness, individuals can cultivate spaces that provide a retreat in their own backyard to improve their quality of life.

Woman praticing yoga on her back yard patio, in front of her pool, living wall and outdoor kitchen area.

Value-added features

In every metro area, property sizes are smaller than ever. With this shift plus budget considerations, homeowners want to maximize small spaces through modular components that serve multiple purposes, like built-in seat walls, fire features, water features and planters that seamlessly blend into a living space — offering both functionality and visual appeal.

Homeowners can get creative with outdoor spaces with the right hardscape materials. For example, a small space can be transformed into a lush oasis by adding a vertical garden, or underutilized spaces like side or front yards can become cozy sitting areas. Even a small patio can serve as an al fresco dining space, and it doesn’t take a lot to add an outdoor workstation with the right tools and tech. Patio pavers and wall units help define spaces, making them serve more than one purpose for any household.

These strategic investments not only increase the functionality and enjoyment of outdoor areas but also significantly boost curb appeal and the home’s property value, making them a smart choice for homeowners looking to maximize their limited spaces.

Textured paver patio with sitting wall, beautiful potted plants, and a patio table with umbrella.

To find inspiration for any outdoor space, visit Belgard.com.

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California’s Auto Liability Coverage Limits to Increase in 2025 to Better Financially Protect Drivers

2024-12-19T13:01:00

(BPT) – The state of California has not raised auto liability coverage limits for more than 50 years, but that is set to change beginning next year. The new legislation, introduced in 2022 to keep pace with rising medical and repair costs, will require higher liability coverage limits for drivers and will take effect on Jan. 1, 2025. As we approach the new year, Mercury Insurance wants to help consumers better understand what these new limits entail.

“With the increase in liability coverage limits, California drivers will be more likely to have the coverage they need to pay for an accident without going into debt,” said Justin Yoshizawa, Director of Product Management for Mercury Insurance. “However, some drivers may notice an increase in their premiums next year, which means now is a great time to get in touch with your insurance agent to review your policy and maximize savings with potential discounts.”

Here’s what California drivers should know about the mandate:

What are the new coverage limits?

Currently, California requires motorists to carry liability insurance with minimum limits of $15,000/$30,000 for Bodily Injury and $5,000 for Property Damage. Starting in 2025, this will increase to $30,000/$60,000 for Bodily Injury and $15,000 for Property Damage.

When will the new coverage limits take effect?

New liability coverage limits will go into effect on Jan. 1, 2025. Drivers who are impacted should see the change in their next policy renewal after that time.

Why is this change happening?

Despite being home to the most licensed drivers in the country, the state of California has not raised auto liability coverage limits for the past 56 years. During that time, the costs associated with getting into an accident — medical bills and repair costs — have risen significantly due to inflation. The changes are intended to provide California drivers with greater financial protection amid these rising costs if they were to get into an accident.

Will this affect insurance premium for drivers?

This will affect premiums for drivers who currently carry the minimum coverage and are bumped up to the new limits as a result of the mandate.

What do drivers need to do now?

No action is required on the part of drivers. All existing policies with lower limits will be renewed with the adjusted minimum limits on or after Jan. 1, 2025. However, it would be a good idea to reach out to your insurance agent to review coverages and potential discounts that may be offered.

“These new coverage limits will remain in place for the next 10 years, after which another increase will go into effect,” said Yoshizawa. “The good news is that California drivers will be more adequately insured to cover repairs or injuries following an accident.”

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Millions of Americans live with type 2 diabetes—A division 1 football family shares how they tackle the disease head-on

2024-12-19T07:01:00

(BPT) – The following story was prepared and sponsored by Novo Nordisk. Calvin, Patrice, and Cam Ward are paid spokespersons of Novo Nordisk.

Picture this—you’re a D1 starting quarterback preparing for your upcoming game. Football has been a part of your life for longer than you can remember, so going over your pre-game to-do list is second nature: organizing equipment, memorizing plays, watching film, and making sure schoolwork doesn’t fall to the wayside. These are typical bullets on a football player’s list and are top-of-mind daily. But there’s one more item on the list for Cam Ward: checking in with his parents, Patrice and Calvin, who live with type 2 diabetes, to make sure they’re staying healthy and on track to come to his next game. After all, they’ve never missed one.

The Wards are highlighting type 2 diabetes as a critical issue affecting far too many. More than 38 million Americans live with diabetes,1 with the vast majority (~90%-95%) having type 2 diabetes.2 Roughly 20% of people with diabetes remain undiagnosed.1 The Ward family’s story is a window into the power of community, family, and faith when managing type 2 diabetes.

A Family United by Faith, Football, and Firm Persistence

With deep-rooted faith, tight-knit family bonds, and dedication to football, the Ward family is a beacon of resilience and determination. Cam Ward, now a starting division 1 college quarterback, is not only a force on the field but also a supportive son, brother, and champion of his family’s health. Just as Cam is making his mark on the football field, his parents, Calvin and Patrice, are also making an impact in their community. They are just as active, organizing sports camps and fundraisers in their community and volunteering at their church. Together, Calvin and Patrice go the extra yard when it comes to managing their type 2 diabetes—from doing their best to prioritize healthy eating and staying active, even when on the road, to working with their healthcare professional. And Cam supports from the sidelines, checking in daily and making sure they stay on track. It’s clear the teamwork spirit is central to their family playbook.

“Our family does everything together,” said Cam. “Whether it’s traveling, watching sports, having family meals together, or going to church. We’re a team, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

Facing the Challenge Head-On

Patrice was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes 15 years ago. Despite initial uncertainties, she found strength in her family and faith, navigating her condition while staying active in her community. But the Ward family took another hit when Calvin received a type 2 diabetes diagnosis in 2019.

“Calvin’s diagnosis was shocking. When he was hospitalized, his blood sugar levels were so high that doctors struggled to get a reading,” said Patrice. The Wards now want to share their story to help inform and foster discussions about type 2 diabetes.

The Impact of Type 2 Diabetes

Two in five Americans will develop type 2 diabetes,3 and even when meeting A1C goals, adults living with type 2 diabetes are still at risk for major cardiovascular events such as stroke, heart attack, or cardiovascular death.4-5 For Black Americans like the Wards, the numbers are even more staggering: in the U.S., Black adults are nearly twice as likely as white adults to develop type 2 diabetes.6

“The unfortunate reality is that Black Americans are disproportionately impacted by common risk factors associated with type 2 diabetes,” said Dr. Michael Radin, Executive Medical Director at Novo Nordisk. “We must work together to address this concerning reality and improve this trend, using every opportunity to educate each other on the risks associated with type 2 diabetes.”

Tackling Type 2 Diabetes: A Treatment Plan that Works

For the Wards, finding a reliable type 2 diabetes management plan was the most crucial play. With guidance from their trusted healthcare professional, Patrice and Calvin have both, along with diet and exercise, lowered their A1C with Ozempic® (semaglutide) injection. Millions of people with type 2 diabetes have taken Ozempic® as part of their type 2 diabetes management plan.

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What is Ozempic®?

Ozempic® (semaglutide) injection 0.5 mg, 1 mg, or 2 mg is an injectable prescription medicine used:

  • along with diet and exercise to improve blood sugar (glucose) in adults with type 2 diabetes
  • to reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events such as heart attack, stroke, or death in adults with type 2 diabetes with known heart disease

It is not known if Ozempic® can be used in people who have had pancreatitis.
Ozempic® is not for use in people with type 1 diabetes.
It is not known if Ozempic® is safe and effective for use in children under 18 years of age.

Important Safety Information

Do not share your Ozempic® pen with other people, even if the needle has been changed. You may give other people a serious infection, or get a serious infection from them.

What is the most important information I should know about Ozempic®?

Ozempic® may cause serious side effects, including:

  • Possible thyroid tumors, including cancer. Tell your health care provider if you get a lump or swelling in your neck, hoarseness, trouble swallowing, or shortness of breath. These may be symptoms of thyroid cancer. In studies with rodents, Ozempic® and medicines that work like Ozempic® caused thyroid tumors, including thyroid cancer. It is not known if Ozempic® will cause thyroid tumors or a type of thyroid cancer called medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) in people
  • Do not use Ozempic® if you or any of your family have ever had MTC, or if you have an endocrine system condition called Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2)

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The Power of Community

Whether cheering on Cam at the football field or volunteering in their community, the Wards hope to empower others to prioritize and take control of their type 2 diabetes.

“From my own experience, I learned quickly that type 2 diabetes symptoms should not be ignored,” said Calvin. “When it comes to your health, it’s important to take control from the start and talk to your doctor about a treatment plan that works for you. My hope is that this story can help those, who may be ignoring their type 2 diabetes symptoms, avoid what I went through.”

A 2022 survey found that nearly 55% of men do not get regular health screenings.7 Taking care of your health means seeking help—by fostering open dialogue with healthcare professionals, friends, and family about type 2 diabetes, and exploring its risks, hereditary aspects, and associated complications.

“Though my story is unique to me, I want others with type 2 diabetes to see what’s possible with the power of community,” Patrice says. “I hope our story shows that supporting each other should be a fundamental part of your type 2 diabetes game plan.”

To learn more about the Ward family, type 2 diabetes, and Ozempic®, visit Real Ozempic® Stories on Ozempic.com.

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Important Safety Information (continued)

Do not use Ozempic® if:

  • you or any of your family have ever had MTC or if you have MEN 2
  • you are allergic to semaglutide or any of the ingredients in Ozempic®. See symptoms of serious allergic reaction in “What are the possible side effects of Ozempic®?”

Before using Ozempic®, tell your health care provider if you have any other medical conditions, including if you:

  • have or have had problems with your pancreas or kidneys.
  • have a history of diabetic retinopathy.
  • are scheduled to have surgery or other procedures that use anesthesia or deep sleepiness (deep sedation)
  • are pregnant or breastfeeding or plan to become pregnant or breastfeed. It is not known if Ozempic® will harm your unborn baby or passes into your breast milk. You should stop using Ozempic® 2 months before you plan to become pregnant

Tell your health care provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, herbal supplements, and other medicines to treat diabetes, including insulin or sulfonylureas.

What are the possible side effects of Ozempic®?

Ozempic® may cause serious side effects, including:

  • inflammation of your pancreas (pancreatitis). Stop using Ozempic® and call your health care provider right away if you have severe pain in your stomach area (abdomen) that will not go away, with or without vomiting. You may feel the pain from your abdomen to your back
  • changes in vision. Tell your health care provider if you have changes in vision during treatment with Ozempic®
  • low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). Your risk for getting low blood sugar may be higher if you use Ozempic® with another medicine that can cause low blood sugar, such as a sulfonylurea or insulin. Signs and symptoms of low blood sugar may include: dizziness or lightheadedness, blurred vision, anxiety, irritability or mood changes, sweating, slurred speech, hunger, confusion or drowsiness, shakiness, weakness, headache, fast heartbeat, and feeling jittery
  • kidney problems (kidney failure). In people who have kidney problems, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting may cause a loss of fluids (dehydration), which may cause kidney problems to get worse. It is important for you to drink fluids to help reduce your chance of dehydration
  • serious allergic reactions. Stop using Ozempic® and get medical help right away if you have any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat; problems breathing or swallowing; severe rash or itching; fainting or feeling dizzy; or very rapid heartbeat
  • gallbladder problems. Gallbladder problems have happened in some people who take Ozempic®. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get symptoms which may include: pain in your upper stomach (abdomen), fever, yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), or clay-colored stools
  • food or liquid getting into the lungs during surgery or other procedures that use anesthesia or deep sleepiness (deep sedation). Ozempic® may increase the chance of food getting into your lungs during surgery or other procedures. Tell all your healthcare providers that you are taking Ozempic® before you are scheduled to have surgery or other procedures

The most common side effects of Ozempic® may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach (abdominal) pain, and constipation.

Please click here for Prescribing Information and Medication Guide.

References

  1. CDC. National diabetes statistics report. Diabetes. Published 2024. Accessed September 2024. https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/php/data­ research/index.html.
  2. CDC. About Type 2 Diabetes. Diabetes. Published 2024. Accessed October 2024. https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/about/abouttype2­ diabetes.html
  3. CDC. 2 in 5 Americans Expected to Develop Diabetes. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Published 2022. Accessed October 2024. https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/communicationresources/2in5­ americans.html#:~:text=Graphic%20text%3A%202%20in%205,2%20diabetes%20in%20their%20lifetime.
  4. American Heart Association. Cardiovascular Disease and Diabetes. www.heart.org. Published 2021. https://www.heart.org/en/health topics/diabetes/diabetescomplicationsandrisks/cardiovasculardiseasediabetes
  5. Martín-Timón I, Sevillano-Collantes C, Segura-Galindo A, Del Cañizo-Gómez FJ. Type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease: Have all risk factors the same strength?. World J Diabetes. 2014;5(4):444-470. doi:10.4239/wjd.v5.i4.444
  6. Association of Modifiable Risk Factors in Young Adulthood With Racial Disparity in Incident Type 2 Diabetes During Middle Adulthood. Bancks MP, Kershaw K, Carson AP, GordonLarsen P, Schreiner PJ, Carnethon MR. JAMA. 2017 Dec 26;318(24):24572465. doi: 10.1001/jama.2017.19546. PMID: 29279935.
  7. Cleveland Clinic. Cleveland Clinic Survey Reveals Men’s Top Health Concerns as They Age. Accessed September 2024. https://newsroom.clevelandclinic.org/2022/09/07/clevelandclinicsurveyrevealsmenstophealthconcernsastheyage

Novo Nordisk is a registered trademark of Novo Nordisk A/S.

© 2024 Novo Nordisk All rights reserved. US24OZM00789 December 2024

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6 creative ways to save on healthcare using your Medicare Advantage OTC allowance

2024-12-19T11:35:00

(BPT) – Did you know that if you’re on a Medicare Advantage plan, you most likely have an over-the-counter (OTC) allowance to help offset the costs of everyday healthcare items? Millions of Medicare Advantage beneficiaries have access to this key benefit, but most don’t use it. According to a study by The Consumer Healthcare Products Association, 70% of OTC benefits are never used, leaving billions of dollars on the table. They also found that on average, every dollar spent on OTC medicines saves the U.S. healthcare system $7.33, resulting in an overall annual savings of $167.1 billion. It is time to double-check your health care plan and make sure you’re taking advantage of all your benefits and supporting your everyday care routines.

How Medicare Advantage OTC plans can help you save

Medicare Advantage enrollment has been on a steady climb for the past two decades. In fact, this year, over half of the eligible Medicare population (ages 65 and older) are enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan.

Most Medicare Advantage plans offer OTC allowance benefits, providing an average of $400 in annual allowances per beneficiary to help with practicing everyday self-care. These can be used to pay for certain non-prescription items, including health and wellness products.

However, OTC allowances are a use-it-or-lose-it benefit under many plans. The allowance may not roll over into the new plan cycle, whether it’s on a monthly, quarterly or annual basis — it’s crucial to make the most of them while they last.

Check with your provider to understand how often you receive a new OTC allowance balance, so you don’t miss out. From OTC medications to dental care and skincare products, many of your favorite items may be eligible to purchase with your OTC allowance.

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Not sure how to spend your benefits? Kenvue, the world’s largest pure-play consumer health company by revenue with 135+ years of experience, is working to help beneficiaries understand and get the most from their OTC allowance to practice everyday self-care. Check out these six suggestions for ways to use this benefit.

1. Pain and arthritis

Do you regularly buy medications for your pain and arthritis symptoms? The next time you head to the pharmacy, use your allowance to purchase pain medication like TYLENOL® 8-Hour Arthritis Pain Relief to relieve your minor arthritis pain.

2. Cold, cough and flu

Although you can get the cold, flu or a bad cough any time of year, these conditions tend to be more prevalent during the colder months. Now is a perfect time to be prepared with products to relieve your cold, cough and flu symptoms. Make sure to have products like SUDAFED® and TYLENOL® Cold & Flu on hand so you don’t have to run to the store when you’re already feeling ill.

3. Digestive health

Whether you regularly suffer from stomach issues, get occasional heartburn, or want to be proactive about your gut health, hit up your local drugstore for digestive health products. For example, pick up a bottle of PEPCID® Complete to help reduce stomach acid levels and keep heartburn at bay after a hefty meal.

4. Skincare

Are you ready to revamp your skincare routine? Use your OTC allowance to take care of your skin with quality products like Aveeno® Eczema Therapy.

Don’t forget to pick up eligible suncare products as well! You need to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays all year round — not just during the summer. Get in the habit of incorporating SPF items like Neutrogena’s® line of suncare products, including outdoor essentials like Sport Active Defense SPF 30, Ultra Sheer Lotion SPF 70 and Beach Defense Spray SPF 70, into your skincare routine.

5. Dental care

Impress your dentist and invest in your oral health with OTC-eligible dental care items. For example, LISTERINE® products including LISTERINE® Cool Mint are great for keeping that smile fresh and healthy.

6. First aid

Have you ever had a cut or scrape and found out you’re out of bandages? Avoid this frustrating scenario by restocking your medicine cabinet with must-have items from BAND-AID® Brand such as BAND-AID® Brand Pro Heal™, which provide 60% better healing† and are designed to help prevent the appearance of scars**.

Note: Before buying any of these products, be sure to read your plan for product eligibility and allowance usage as plans do vary. Contact your provider for the different methods with which you can spend your allowance, which typically include:

  • Catalog, online, phone or mail order through your provider
  • Submitting receipts for reimbursement to your provider, or
  • Using an OTC debit card at retailers

Don’t wait to invest in your everyday health

Make the most of your Medicare Advantage OTC benefits to improve your everyday care. To learn more about these and other OTC-eligible products, visit kenvuebrands.com/us/medadvantage.

†Based on a 7-day average of percentage of subjects showing improvement of general wound appearance compared to standard of care

**Hydrocolloids create an optimal moist healing environment

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5 sous vide recipes that are sure to impress holiday guests

2024-12-19T10:35:00

(BPT) – The holiday season is the time for hosts and home chefs to shine. Of course, cooking a holiday feast for friends and family is time-consuming, and with so many moving parts, accidents do happen. However, for this year’s feasts, you can perfectly cook your holiday dishes and save time using sous vide, the preferred cooking method by Michelin-starred chefs from around the world.

What is sous vide?

Sous vide (pronounced sue-veed) is French for “under vacuum.” The cooking technique involves vacuum sealing food in a pouch and submerging it in water to slow-cook at a constant, precise temperature.

“Sous vide has been the go-to method in some of the world’s best restaurants for years — and for good reason: it brings food to the precise temperature chefs look for and delivers perfect doneness, edge-to-edge, every time,” said Signature Kitchen Suite’s Executive Chef Nick Ritchie.

Are you ready to take your holiday meals to the next level? Try one (or all) of the following sous vide holiday recipes.

1. Seared sous vide scallops

Cooking scallops can be daunting. When preparing in a pan, you run the risk of overcooking them — resulting in a chewy, rubbery texture — or undercooking them, leaving the scallops raw in the middle. However, when you sous vide scallops, you can rest easy knowing they’ll be cooked evenly.

Chef Ritchie’s recipe uses the sous vide method to infuse scallops with tarragon, lemon, olive oil and salt. After 20 minutes in the bath, you’ll quickly sear them for about 60 seconds on each side. When done, you’ll have four perfectly cooked tender scallops that will melt in your mouth. You can serve them on their own as appetizers or on a bed of risotto as the main dish.

2. Sous vide poached egg salad

For a filling and protein-forward meal for lunch or dinner, mix up a batch of sous vide poached egg salad. If you’ve never poached an egg before, no worries. A sous vide bath will ensure you have perfectly poached eggs every time.

Chef Ritchie’s mix of eggs, lettuce, radicchio, goat cheese and walnuts is well complemented by a warm bacon dressing. In addition to savory bacon, the dressing features aromatic garlic and thyme, as well as grapes!

3. Sous vide fennel-spiced pork loin chops

Pork chops are a great addition to any holiday meal, especially when they’re well seasoned. Chef Ritchie’s recipe for pork loin chops incorporates the licorice-like taste of fennel, the citrusy pepperiness of coriander and the earthy quality of rosemary.

By sous videing the pork loins, you don’t have to worry about serving a dry piece of meat. Your guests will enjoy tender, moist and juicy pork chops that are great on their own but also pair well with sous vide braised cabbage and glazed apples.

4. Sous vide poached winter fruit

Want to make a dessert that looks impressive but is incredibly easy to prepare? Try Chef Ritchie’s recipe for sous vide poached winter fruit. While this recipe calls for persimmons, it works well with most fruits, including apples, pears, quince, peaches and apricots.

You can poach fruits the traditional way on a stove, but when you sous vide fruits, the process brings out and enhances the fruit’s powerful and rich flavor. It also preserves fruit’s freshness and offers a longer shelf life, so you can enjoy this delicious dessert well into the new year.

5. Sous vide honey-thyme glazed turnips

Turnips aren’t usually the star of the show. However, this sous vide honey-thyme glazed turnip recipe may inspire you to make more meals with the humble root vegetable.

Chef Ritchie’s instructions are very simple. You’ll seal the prepared turnips in a sous vide pouch with butter, seasoning and honey. After an hour in the sous vide, you’ll pour the pouch contents onto a pan to quickly saute the turnips and reduce the glaze. Once garnished, you’ll have a lovely plate of tasty tender turnips.

Your secret weapon this holiday season and beyond

You can sous vide this holiday season and year-round with the right appliances. Luxury kitchen appliance brand Signature Kitchen Suite features the first and only built-in sous vide right on the cooktop along with gas and induction. Get professional-level results every time and capture the full, true flavors of foods. It’s the ultimate gift that meets all your hosting needs in one appliance.

To learn more about Signature Kitchen Suite and to find more recipes, visit SignatureKitchenSuite.com/en-us/.

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4 must-have laptops for everyone on your list

2024-12-19T11:01:00

(BPT) – The last days of holiday shopping are here! You’ve made your wish list, and now you’re checking it twice to ensure your friends and family (and, on occasion, yourself) receive the best gifts possible. If you haven’t wrapped up your shopping yet and are on the hunt for a gift that’s fun and functional, look no further than the latest cutting-edge laptops as the ultimate choice for anyone on your list.

AI-powered laptops are a wonderful gift that someone can use every day for work, school and play. When looking for reliable laptops, choose those powered by the Snapdragon X Series. Snapdragon X Elite and Snapdragon X Plus will blow your expectations away, enabling you to enter the new year with reliable and powerful tech.

Before you hit the stores or check out your options online, take a moment to review these top four laptops for the 2024 holiday season.

1. Dell Inspiron 14 Plus

Finding a mainstream laptop that you can count on for day-to-day multitasking and casual gaming may sound like a tall order. However, the Dell Inspiron 14 Plus laptop delivers all of this and more. Its slim and light yet robust aluminum design is perfect for high school and college students who need a durable and transportable device at home and on campus.

The Inspiron 14 Plus powered by Snapdragon X Plus simplifies your every day, allowing you to fly through your to-do list thanks to Copilot+. You’ll get tasks faster and find time to do what matters most with your personal AI assistant. Don’t worry about your laptop overheating from running multiple applications or gaming — this laptop is designed with advanced thermal cooling to keep heat in check, allowing you to use it on your lap comfortably for extended periods.

This laptop is a budget-friendly option for users who desire responsive performance and exceptional battery life virtually anywhere. So, whether you’re online shopping, planning your next vacation or kick-starting research for your next class project, you can do it all and do it quickly with the help of AI.

2. Lenovo Yoga Slim 7x

Bring your imagination to life with this creative sidekick that knows what you need before you do. The Lenovo Yoga Slim 7x boasts fast processing speed, multi-day battery life and a beautiful 14.5-inch OLED high-resolution display, perfect for the creatives in your life. Best of all, it offers premium performance for all your needs.

Powered by Snapdragon X Elite, this laptop is crafted to elevate your artistry with a battery that allows you to create untethered for days at a time. The processor allows users access to features like text-to-image, advanced photo and video editing functionalities, text creation and editing feedback, and other functions that free up time to work on new creative endeavors.

Also, the built-in AI allows digital artists and designers to spend less time editing, rendering, and processing and more time creating their work to share with the world as they roam the globe.

3. Acer Swift 14 AI

The Acer Swift 14 AI laptop is like an all-terrain vehicle built for the future. Its built-in AI seamlessly integrates into your everyday PC tasks to save you time and boost productivity. This laptop is perfect for the person on your list who needs a laptop refresh with the capability to do it all.

Like other Snapdragon X Series laptops, it offers exceptional performance and is built to handle users’ most demanding tasks with ease. Whether they use generative AI tools, need to tackle intense workloads or require multitasking that doesn’t quit, this laptop stands ready to meet and exceed the challenge.

The Acer Swift 14 AI also delivers stellar connectivity. Thanks to Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4 connectivity, along with various port options with two USB Type-C ports (supporting USB 4 and USB charging), two USB Type-A 3.2 ports and HDMI 2.1, you’ll never have to worry about keeping adapters on hand. Not to mention, the multi-day battery life and affordable price point make it an attractive choice as a present to others or yourself!

4. HP Omnibook X

Remote and hybrid work is no longer an exclusive privilege for some employees. It’s become an expected and widely adopted work style. If you work from home, on the road and in the office, you’ll need a laptop like the HP OmniBook X.

This laptop’s long-lasting battery life, premium design, powerful performance and AI are a must-have for digital nomads. The built-in AI is particularly useful for those seeking a more personalized experience. Every time you use this laptop, the more personalized it becomes.

Those who need an ultrapowerful, ultraportable and ultra-responsive laptop for marathon use will appreciate this laptop this holiday season and beyond.

You can’t go wrong by picking any of these four options. They’re powerful, portable and offer AI capabilities to keep everyone on your list creative and productive. You can purchase any of these laptops online and in person at your local Best Buy.

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5 simple tips to turn leftovers into new tasty meals

2024-12-19T08:01:00

(BPT) – A holiday gathering wouldn’t be complete without a feast. Sharing a meal with friends and family encourages conversation and bonding, not to mention the opportunity to show off your culinary skills. However, it’s important to keep in mind that large holiday meals can easily produce food waste.

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Americans waste approximately 30%-40% of the food supply. When cooking for a large group — like a holiday feast — it’s easy to overprepare and end up with more leftovers than you know what to do with.

This holiday season, don’t worry about wasting food. KitchenAid — the #1 mixer brand in the world* — is here to help you turn your holiday leftovers into new tasty meals. Try these five creative tips that can transform the dreaded leftovers into delicious dishes.

1. A hot meal to warm your bones

Gather leftover vegetables, meats and bones and throw them into a Dutch Oven. In no time, you’ll have warm soup or stew to enjoy on those cold winter days. You can also make stock that you can freeze and use in dishes in the new year!

2. Easy and hearty handhelds

Leftover turkey and ham make for a great protein base for quick meals. Whether you have sandwiches, tacos or wraps on the menu, repurposing your holiday protein can be quick, easy, and delicious.

Just choose your favorite or mix and match! If you have leftover cranberry sauce or roasted sweet potatoes, these can also be great additions.

3. Taters for breakfast

Do you have loads of leftover mashed or sweet potatoes? Use these tasty spuds to create savory twists of breakfast staples like pancakes and waffles.

Grab your favorite recipe and use your KitchenAid Artisan Series 5 Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer to incorporate these sweet or mashed potatoes into the batter. After cooking, consider topping with chives or even cranberry sauce.

4. Whip up a decadent dessert

Eggnog on its own is a decadent seasonal treat. If you have leftover cartons of eggnog after your family get-together, use your mixer to transform that eggnog into whipped cream.

This eggnog whipped cream will add a rich, creamy and spiced flavor to leftover pie slices — especially pumpkin pies. Also, consider blending eggnog into frosting to top any leftover holiday cookies.

5. Layer leftovers into a casserole

Casseroles are the perfect format for leftovers. Simply layer meat, gravy and veggies into an oven-safe dish, refrigerate and reheat the next day. You can even simplify the process by creating the casserole when you clean up after a holiday gathering.

Bonus! To make these and other dishes with ease, gift yourself The KitchenAid 2024 Design Series Stand Mixer in Evergreen. It’s the perfect holiday appliance that makes cooking and baking simple and serves as an eye-catching kitchen decoration that you can appreciate year-round.

Follow these five holiday tips that will help you reduce your food waste and hopefully inspire you to create leftover dishes in the new year. To learn more, visit KitchenAid.com.

*Source Euromonitor International Limited; based on custom research conducted October 2023 for value sales (in USD) in 2023 through all retail channels.

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How to stay strong for surgery

2024-12-18T15:11:00

(BPT) – By Michael J. Sutherland, MD, MBA, FACS

Every year, more than 15 million Americans undergo surgery. For many, the prospect of having surgery can feel overwhelming, prompting worries and unease about recovery. But the process of having surgery doesn’t have to be daunting — and simple steps and habits can make a significant difference in outcomes.

At the American College of Surgeons, the largest professional association of surgeons in the world, we have a free resource, Strong for Surgery (www.facs.org/for-patients/preparing-for-surgery/strong-for-surgery/), that provides patients with practical tips to navigate their surgical journey. While there is no “one-size-fits-all” approach to preparing for and recovering from surgery, practicing healthy daily habits and having candid conversations with your care team about your goals can greatly improve your results.

Eat to Heal

Good nutrition will help at every step along your surgical journey. Eating well begins by planning a nutritious meal that includes a balance of protein-rich foods, whole grains, healthy fats, fruits and vegetables — all of which play a role in nourishing the body with enough calories, protein, vitamins and minerals. We recommend eating at least three times a day, and increasing fiber intake, if tolerated. Aim to include protein-rich foods with each meal, such as lean meat, fish, poultry, beans, eggs, cheese, nuts, tofu, milk, cottage cheese and yogurt. If you cannot meet your requirements with meals, consider supplementing your diet with healthy snacks, additional proteins or vitamins. Make sure to stay hydrated, and drink sufficient water each day.

Before surgery, many patients are required to temporarily stop eating and drinking. Your care team will advise on when it is safe to resume eating and drinking. Be sure to follow their recommendations both before and after surgery and ask any questions.

Engage in Healthy Habits

Generally, the more fit and active you are before surgery, the better you will function after surgery. Your care team can work with you before your surgery to improve your fitness, which can facilitate your recovery and help you maintain your strength. Often called “prehabilitation,” your doctor may recommend exercises or refer you to specialized physical therapists who can design a therapy and exercise plan to target any physical limitations that you may be experiencing.

Other risk factors, such as smoking, obesity and high blood pressure, are also important to manage before and after surgery. Smoking can increase the risk of complications after surgery, making it harder for you to recover from anesthesia and increasing the risk of infection. If you currently smoke, ask your surgeon about ways you can quit smoking. There are many effective options to help people quit smoking, including medications and tailored programs that offer empathetic and personalized support.

Be Empowered to Ask Questions

There are many considerations when making plans to have surgery.

Our Strong for Surgery guide and Geriatric Surgery Patient checklist (www.facs.org/gsvpatient) include printable handouts that you can download and print for free to help you prepare your questions before an appointment, prepare your list of medicines and supplements, and keep track of your notes during appointments.

Together, these small steps can make a big difference in surgical outcomes — and optimize your chances to stay healthy and strong before and after surgery.

Text adapted from the Strong for Surgery guide of the American College of Surgeons (www.facs.org/for-patients/preparing-for-surgery/strong-for-surgery/).

Michael J. Sutherland, MD, MBA, FACS, is a trauma and general surgeon and the Senior Vice President for Member Services at the American College of Surgeons.

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How to help your kids build healthy money habits in 2025

2024-12-18T17:01:00

(BPT) – As you look ahead to the new year, you may think about ways to help your kids succeed in life as they navigate their way through school — whether that means elementary school, high school or college — and eventually into adulthood. While money can be a tricky topic to navigate, especially if it was a taboo topic when you were younger, start the conversation to help them benefit from your experiences. Finding tools together that can help kids learn how to best manage their own finances as they grow and mature will help set them up for financial success in the years to come.

To help you get started, here are tips that make it easier for kids of all ages to learn how to save, budget and begin managing their finances more independently.

1. Start the conversation

Even when kids are in elementary school, start talking about money in a realistic way so they can understand how it’s used to support your lifestyle. Begin the conversation in an age-appropriate way that highlights ideas such as knowing the difference between needs and wants, saving for something special and tracking the money you earn as well as the money you spend. For example, young children can understand the idea of saving up money from their allowance or lemonade stand to buy something they want in the future.

2. Take notes and use tools

As your kids get older, explain the budgeting basics — even as simple as listing what you earn and what you spend, so you can ensure you won’t spend more than you have. Any leftover money is best put in savings first, then they can consider working toward items or experiences they might want to buy. There are many budgeting resources out there, so you can find the one that works for you, including budget worksheets to track spending. The Snapshot feature in the Chase Mobile app provides a daily digest of spending, highlighting top categories to help them plan accordingly.

3. Get organized and go digital

Financial confidence starts with getting organized. You can find easy-to-use budgeting tools that work for kids and parents both, with different levels of parental oversight and management suitable for different age groups.

For example, accounts like Chase First Banking are designed with students ages 6-12 in mind (and available for kids 6-17) with parents having full ownership. The account gives kids tools, tips and safety features to help them learn money basics — all with no monthly service fee.

Students ages 13-17 can opt for Chase High School CheckingSM — a checking account co-owned with a parent to provide oversight and monitoring — which offers tools and resources for students to learn how to manage their money with confidence, all with no monthly service fee. This is ideal for kids with jobs who need direct deposit, and they can pay friends with Zelle. This checking account helps high school students with these firsthand digital transactions and account balances which can help with budgeting and saving.

Mom and elementary school age daughter using an app on a tabet that is connected to a banking account.

Chase College CheckingSM is available to students ages 17-24 in college, university, community college, or a vocation or technical school, providing access to digital banking tools to help them stay on top of their finances throughout the semester. Chase College Checking gives students the tools and resources to manage their money independently, with no monthly service fee for up to five years while in school.

College student using an app on her phone to deposit a check while sitting on a couch in her dorm room.

4. Plan for the future

According to Bankrate, 59% of Americans are uncomfortable with the amount of emergency savings they have, and 27% have no emergency fund at all. It’s important for kids of all ages to know that unexpected events in life can happen, and planning ahead may help reduce stress and better cope with whatever may occur. For this reason, building an emergency fund or saving for a rainy day is a crucial skill to learn. Features like AutoSave will help them set, track and meet savings goals to help them prepare for the future.

Throughout their formative years, your kids can start learning and practicing vital money skills that will stay with them for life, as well as how to use financial tools so they will be able to stay on top of their finances and achieve their goals.

Learn more about all the options available to get your kids started on the right financial footing at Chase.com/studentbanking.

Bank deposit accounts, such as checking and savings, are subject to approval.

Chase Mobile® app is available for select mobile devices. Message and data rates may apply.

Zelle and the Zelle related marks are wholly owned by Early Warning Services, LLC and are used herein under license.

Deposit products provided by JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. Member FDIC.