Category: Brandpoint Business & Finance

2024-07-23T07:01:00

(BPT) – Saving for the future is a top financial priority for most people. If you have children, then saving for their college education may also be an important goal for you. Or, you may want to pursue an advanced degree yourself.

Putting away money to afford both retirement and higher education can be quite expensive. Many families face the challenge of balancing retirement and college savings.

Fortunately, you don’t have to make a choice between them. There are several smart strategies that can help you strike the right balance.

Start saving money early. The earlier you begin saving for both retirement and college, the easier it will feel to reach your goals.

Set clear savings priorities. Determine how much you can comfortably save for each goal. Your retirement generally should take precedence over savings for education expenses. Remember: Loans are available for college but not for retirement.

Make use of tax-advantaged accounts. Maximize contributions to qualified retirement accounts such as 401(k)s and IRAs. For education expenses, consider 529 plans or other college savings accounts, which can offer tax benefits in some states.

Automate regular savings deposits. Set up automatic contributions to both retirement and college savings accounts. You could set up direct deposits or 401(k)/TSP contributions from your paycheck, or automatic account transfers, to make the process of saving easy and painless. This ensures consistency and discipline in your savings strategy.

Adjust your contributions over time. As your financial situation evolves, revisit your savings plans. You might decide to change how much money you’re setting aside. Windfalls, pay raises or savings from reducing expenses can be opportunities to save more money toward your goals.

Involve others in education savings. Teach your children about the value of money by involving them in the college savings process. Encourage them to contribute a percentage of their part-time earnings or gift money to their accounts. This can help them appreciate what it takes to go to college. Additionally, let family members know you’ve set up a 529 plan and encourage them to contribute to it.

Explore financial assistance options. Look into scholarship opportunities, grants and financial aid options to reduce college costs. On the retirement side, see if your employer offers a matching contribution for qualified retirement accounts. An employer match can give a significant boost to your retirement savings.

By carefully planning, setting priorities and using tax-advantaged savings accounts, you can set aside money for your retirement and college education goals. And be sure to check out how Navy Federal Credit Union can help, with options to save for retirement and college.

Navy Federal is federally insured by NCUA.

2024-07-17T14:01:00

(BPT) – Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center (CBMC), an RWJBarnabas Health facility, has received a visionary gift of $30 million from Andrea and Anthony Melchiorre to support the new multidisciplinary standalone cancer center now under construction on the hospital campus in Livingston, New Jersey. The Melchiorre Cancer Center at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center will open in 2025.

Over the past 12 years, the Melchiorre family has been extremely generous to the hospital, supporting numerous programs, including the Cooperman Family Pavilion, Radiation Oncology, and the Emergency Department. The family’s most recent commitment brings their total giving to the hospital to nearly $50 million and supports the new $225 million, five-story, 137,000-square-foot cancer center.

“Like countless families, we have been personally touched by cancer,” stated Andrea and Anthony Melchiorre. “We know that this new cancer center, which will bring together the region’s top oncologists with best-in-class services in one dedicated setting, will bring renewed hope to people in New Jersey and throughout the region.”

“We are incredibly grateful to the Melchiorre family for this profoundly generous gift, as well as for their unwavering service to CBMC and RWJBarnabas Health. Through their investment, we are expanding access to cancer care across New Jersey,” said Mark E. Manigan, President and Chief Executive Officer of RWJBarnabas Health.

Bruce Schonbraun, Chair of the Board of Trustees at CBMC, added, “As a member of the Board of Trustees since 2017, Andrea has embodied visionary leadership and support and has helped build CBMC into a true regional and national destination for world-class cancer care. I join the board, leadership, medical staff, and the entire organization in conveying our unending gratitude to Andrea and Anthony.”

“When this new center opens in December 2025, it will serve as the northern hub for RWJBarnabas Health’s oncology services,” said Richard L. Davis, President and Chief Executive Officer of CBMC. “Thanks to donors like the Melchiorres, patients will have access to a full array of medical, surgical, and radiation oncology services under one roof.”

Building on their longstanding partnership, RWJBarnabas Health and Rutgers Cancer Institute, the state’s only National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, are making transformative statewide investments to reimagine cancer care. The Melchiorre Cancer Center along with the Vogel Medical Campus in Monmouth County and the Jack and Sheryl Morris Cancer Center in New Brunswick, which will be New Jersey’s first freestanding cancer hospital, will bring together nationally recognized physicians and provide the most advanced cancer treatments and compassionate care for the communities we serve.

“RWJBarnabas Health and Rutgers Cancer Institute have created an integrated world-class network of comprehensive cancer research and care, bringing new state-of-the-art facilities such as the Melchiorre Cancer Center, close to home for patients,” stated Steven K. Libutti, MD, Director of Rutgers Cancer Institute and Senior Vice President, Oncology Services, RWJBarnabas Health. “We are extremely grateful to supporters like the Melchiorre family who are helping us transform the face of cancer, together.”

“Expanded capabilities and facilities are made possible in part thanks to growing philanthropic investments being made to the health system,” said Glenn Miller, Executive Vice President and Chief Development Officer for RWJBarnabas Health. “People want to support our mission — and they want to fight cancer. This gift from Andrea and Anthony is the fifth historic gift that we have received in the last few years. We are humbled by these visionary investments that inspire donors at all levels.”

To learn more, go to rwjbh.org/cbmccancercenter.

Pictured at the signing ceremony: (l-r) Richard L. Davis, President and CEO, Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center, Bruce Schonbraun, Chair, Board of Trustees, Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center, Anthony and Andrea Melchiorre, Mark E. Manigan, President and Chief Executive Officer, RWJBarnabas Health.

2024-07-10T13:21:00

(BPT) – Can your dog help you save? New Empower research shows that Americans associate pet ownership with positive money habits, with 39% of people saying it inspires them to be more financially responsible, and 36% saying it motivates them to reach their financial goals.

Key takeaways

• More than a third of Americans (35%) say their pets motivate them to work harder and seek higher pay.
• Over half of Americans (57%) include their pets’ needs in long-term financial planning.
• 31% of Gen Zers (28% overall) would take a pay cut for a job with flexible hours so they could spend more time with their pet; 34% of Millennials (30% overall) would turn down a higher paying job to spend more time with their animal companions.
• 41% say they’d be more likely to return to the office if they could bring their pet to work; 26% say their dream job would offer pawternity leave (time off for getting a new pet).
• 1 in 5 Gen Zers have a dedicated savings account for their pet’s needs.

The pet effect

The majority of pet owners (94%) consider their four-legged friends part of the family, and more than half (57%) include their pets’ needs in long-term financial planning. Nearly 2 in 5 (39%) report becoming more financially responsible due to owning a pet. Close to a third (31%) saved up for pet expenses before getting one.

About 7 in 10 pet owners want to spoil their animal companions (71%), while almost a third buy things for their pets when they feel guilty about not spending enough time with them (32%). Income may also play a role in pet spending: 42% say the more money they make, the more they splurge on their pets.

What would you do if your pet suddenly needed a trip to the vet? Over three-quarters of Americans (77%) would tap into their savings or emergency fund to pay for an unexpected medical expense. Enrolling in pet insurance is one way to be prepared.

Sit. Stay. Spend.

Americans spent an average of $1,355 on their pets in the past year, and nearly 1 in 5 (19%) plan to spend more in 2024. On average, they spend $1,200 on food and $828 on vet bills each year. As for birthday and holiday pet gifts, Americans say they spend an average of $24 on those occasions.

Dog owners spend an average of 14% more on their pets than cat owners. But what about spending on pets versus people?

One in 3 (33%) pet owners say they buy more things for their pets than themselves, and over 2 in 5 (42%) spent more on their pets than on their closest friends. Some (16%) spent more on their pets than their significant other.

Paws and paychecks

More than a third of Americans (35%) say their pets motivate them to work harder and seek higher pay. For some, time is money: 34% of Millennials would decline a higher-paying job if it meant more time away from their pets (30% overall). Another 31% of Gen Zers (28% overall) would consider a pay cut in exchange for a job that offers flexible hours so they can spend more time with their pets.

People’s love for their pets often extends into their workplace preferences, with 41% of pet owners being more likely to return to the office if allowed to bring their pets.

Access the full report on The Currency™.

Methodology: This study is based on online responses from 1,000 pet owners in American commissioned by Empower from April 11-12, 2024.

RO3696051-0724

2024-07-10T10:53:00

(BPT) – Paying for college, buying a home, entering retirement — these are all significant life events, and they all come at a significant price. But they also come with fair warning. Generally, these types of expenditures are anticipated, often many years in advance, which means they can be planned for and pursued steadily over time.

Everyone has unique circumstances, and the path to achieving a common goal will be unique as well. That said, individuals and families who share a commitment to becoming financially literate and adopting tried-and-true savings strategies tend to have a better chance at achieving big-ticket dreams.

Build a budget

The first step to building savings is to build a budget. This activity involves determining how much money comes in each month and how much goes to necessary expenses, such as housing, food, utilities, transportation, insurance and subscriptions (which can add up quickly and drag on expenses).

The goal is for people to live within their means. Ideally, the budget will also have room for wants and savings, both for an emergency fund and for any other spending goals.

Save automatically

With online banking, individuals can set up automatic payments to cover their bills on time, avoiding costly late fees, and coordinate regular transfers to dedicated interest-bearing savings accounts. By timing these transfers monthly, such as on pay day, the money is moved aside before getting spent.

Additionally, workplace retirement plans are one of the easiest ways to save for the golden years. Contributions are automatic and made with pre-tax dollars, so participants fund their future while lowering their present income tax bill. Many employer-sponsored plans also offer after-tax (ROTH) contribution options. This option has the potential to lower tax bills during retirement since qualified distributions will be tax free.

Don’t leave money on the table

To encourage employees to save, employers often match a portion of contributions to a workplace retirement plan. For example, a company may offer a dollar-for-dollar match up to 6% of salary; a participating employee saving 6% of their pay would receive another 6% from their employer, getting 12% of their salary set aside every month.

Savings can build much faster with an employer’s help, and organizations today are offering a variety of other benefits to help their workers save. Taking full advantage of benefits packages can enable employees to save on healthcare, childcare, commuting and even student loan payments, as well as for retirement.

Start early

For any spending target, from short-term plans like a vacation to long-term plans like a child’s college education, the key is to start saving as soon as the idea germinates. If funds are in an interest-bearing account, they can benefit from interest as it compounds over time, adding to direct contributions.

For goals that are further out, investment accounts may offer greater growth potential. Some college savings plans offer age-based investment options, which automatically become more conservative to protect an account’s value as a child nears their college years. With any investment, it is critical to understand the associated risks before moving forward.

Tap the experts

Managing finances and planning for major savings goals can be challenging, especially when the cost of living has been elevated in recent periods. Some additional perspective and guidance may be helpful, and one place to start is at a community bank.

First Interstate Wealth Management, for instance, has advisors who can help clients access a number of financial calculators and resources to help develop a savings plan, as well as provide information about accounts that may be suitable. With the right tools and support, dreams can become a reality.

2024-07-10T10:01:00

(BPT) – With summer in full swing, the last thing you want to worry about is overspending on your summer fun. Look for ways to cut back on everyday expenses so that you can use those savings to create memories.

From organizing a movie night to buying new sunglasses for a day at the pool, here are some savings tips to fuel your summer adventures.

Host DIY Nights

Skip going to the theater and create your own movie night from the comfort of your home. With popcorn, a TV and some friends, you can easily turn your space into a memorable watch party experience and save money at the same time.

To step up your DIY game, plan out themed watch parties. Challenge your friends to create gourmet meals as you watch the new season of The Bear or plan a series of baseball-themed competitions as you cheer on your favorite team.

This summer, stream all your favorite series like the Office or Stranger Things. With its debut of Xfinity StreamSaver, which combines Apple TV+, Netflix and Peacock Premium into one low-cost offering, there are many entertainment options from which to choose — you’ll be binge-watching all summer.

Beat the Heat

Stay cool this summer! Call your friends and plan a day at the beach. Or if spending the day in the sun isn’t your style, ditch the heat wave by staying inside and livestreaming a sports game.

No matter how you choose to beat the heat, you’ll stay connected with your family and friends with reliable internet services.

Share with Friends and Family

The best way to cut costs is to share with your loved ones. If you’re in the mood for an ice cream sundae, why not split it with a friend and save money at the same time? Try to make homemade ice cream by looking up a recipe online. By finding ways to share this summer, you’ll also be finding ways to save.

Consider sharing your mobile plan with the family to save costs, like getting two unlimited lines with Xfinity Mobile for only $60/month. Once you have your new mobile phones in hand, do a quick search on “How to cut costs” for additional tips. With access to more than 23 million Xfinity WiFi hotspots, you can get coupons and money-saving shortcuts while on the go. Even with your mobile needs, there are endless ways to share and save.

Go On a Scavenger Hunt

Having reliable mobile service makes it easy to plan your summer adventures. Consult Google to make a bucket list of local hidden gems or try geocaching to find hidden treasures.

Outside of a scavenger hunt, it’s smart to always be on the hunt for rewards programs to save you money. Many chain restaurants and retail stores offer rewards programs to get free products. For Xfinity customers, you can participate in Xfinity Rewards to get deals on movies, theme park experiences, and more.

Travel Light

Forty percent of Americans are planning to travel more this year compared to 2023, according to a survey by Forbes Advisor.

For those planning to travel, pack light to save money on checking your bags at the airport. Focusing on the essentials will make traveling easy (plus you’ll have room to bring back souvenirs).

NOW is another great option for value seekers who only want what is necessary in their internet, TV and mobile services. With no fees or commitment to an annual contract, it’s a great prepaid and affordable option for people who want the basics.

To Sum(mer) It Up

Make the most out of your summer and put your internet, mobile and TV services to work for you. As the days are heating up, so are savings on technology you use every day, which is why you should consider signing up for Comcast’s Xfinity this summer.

2024-07-03T16:01:03

(BPT) – Graduation is an exciting time, but it also means new responsibilities. If you’ve been on your parents’ auto insurance and now need your own, don’t worry! These simple steps from Mercury Insurance will help you get the coverage you need.

“Graduates are stepping into a world filled with opportunities and uncertainties,” says Kevin Quinn, VP, Auto Claims at Mercury Insurance. “Understanding your insurance needs is a crucial step in protecting your future.”

Simple steps for shopping for auto insurance:

1. Review your current coverage

Talk to your parents and their insurance agent to understand what coverage you currently have. This will give you a good starting point.

“Knowing what coverage you’ve had under your parents’ policy helps you understand what protections you might need going forward,” explains Quinn.

2. Decide on your coverage

Learn about the different types of coverage:

• Liability: Covers damage you cause to others.
• Collision: Covers damage to your car from accidents.
• Comprehensive: Covers non-accident damage (like theft or weather).

Understanding the different types of coverage ensures you choose the right protection for your situation.

3. Check state requirements

Every state has different auto insurance laws. Look up the minimum requirements for your state or ask an agent to explain them.

4. Get quotes

Contact multiple insurance companies to get quotes. Compare prices and coverage options to find the best deal.

Shopping around is essential. Different companies offer various rates and discounts, so take the time to compare. You can obtain a quote from Mercury at Mercury Insurance Quote.

Make sure to ask about discounts. You might get a lower rate for:

• Good driving record
• Completing driver education courses
• Bundling with other insurance policies

Many insurers offer discounts for safe driving, good grades or combining policies. Be sure to ask about these potential savings.

5. Review and choose

Look over the quotes and coverage options. Choose the policy that best fits your needs and budget. Select a policy that provides adequate coverage without stretching your budget too thin.

6. Set up your policy

Once you’ve chosen a policy, work with the insurance company to set it up. Make sure you understand the terms and conditions.

Setting up your policy correctly is crucial. Ensure you understand all the details to avoid surprises later on.

Always have the right auto insurance to protect yourself. Mercury Insurance has a great team of agents ready to make this process seamless and easy for you. Contact an agent if you have any questions.

For more information, visit Mercury Insurance’s website or contact your local Mercury agent today.

2024-07-02T08:01:00

(BPT) – As freelancers, we are at a major impasse within the larger future of work conversation. Freelancing has been booming around the world, with millions of professionals opting for the flexibility and autonomy it offers while businesses are relying more on freelancers to fill skill gaps in a pinch. According to 2023 research conducted by Harvard Business Review Analytic Services and Fiverr Business Solutions, freelancers make up over 20% of an organization’s output and will account for half of the United States workforce by 2027 per Statista.

Freelancing, despite its growing popularity and the allure of flexibility and independence, can be daunting. Navigating this increasingly competitive landscape requires more than just skill in your trade. It also takes a strategic approach to stand out and succeed.

Drawing from the insights and experiences of top freelancers who have just received Fiverr’s inaugural Breakthrough Achievement Recognition for surpassing $1 million in earnings on the platform, here are the secrets they’re unveiling to help you build a solid foundation, excelling in client management and sustaining long-term success in the freelance ecosystem to freelance like a pro.

Emphasize and Foster Client Relations

Beau Vallis, Grammy Nominated Mix Engineer:

Fiverr isn’t just a platform, it’s a gateway to showcasing your talents to a global audience. As you navigate its vibrant community, you quickly realize the power of connection. Each interaction fuels your passion, making every workday a thrilling adventure. Fiverr empowers you to dictate your schedule and be the master of your destiny.

Amidst the sea of talent, one factor reigns supreme: exceptional customer service. In a realm bustling with like-minded individuals, your swiftness, clarity of communication and client care become your distinguishing marks. I thrive on forging genuine bonds with every client, proud to now have thousands of friends here on the platform.

Whether actively engaged in a gig or simply conversing, I find myself chatting with many of them throughout my day. Fiverr transcends mere transactions — it’s a boundless world brimming with opportunities. Fiverr is the future. Fiverr is limitless.

Consistency is Key, Don’t Be Afraid to Build Gradually

Ada Mazurek, Designer:

Don’t worry if the big projects don’t roll in immediately. Start with smaller gigs to gain confidence and build your portfolio. Over time, as you gather more reviews and experience, bigger opportunities will naturally come your way. Stick with it, even when it feels slow! Regular updates to your gigs and consistently great work will help you stand out and maintain a steady flow of clients.

Quick and clear communication can make all the difference. Respond to inquiries and requests as promptly as possible. Being responsible with your project timelines and deliverables builds trust and can lead to repeat customers. Even though you might never meet your clients face-to-face, every interaction is an opportunity to build a lasting business relationship. Treat each client with respect and kindness, and they’ll likely return the favor with loyalty and recommendations.

Fiverr handles a lot of the administrative overhead, allowing you to focus on what you love doing. Use this to your advantage to hone your skills and experiment with new services that can enhance your offerings. Use the opportunity to continually develop your skills. The feedback you receive is invaluable for your professional growth, so take it seriously and use it to refine your approach.

Remember, every successful freelancer on Fiverr started exactly where you are now. With dedication and these strategies in mind, you’re well on your way to creating a thriving freelance career.

Constantly Evolve Your Skills and Grow Your Portfolio As You Go

Victoria Carroll, Professional Voice Actor:

Devote time to perfecting your skills and try to identify what makes your service unique. Fiverr is an incredible platform in that once you’ve established your offering, clients are able to come to you. It’s an incredible way to gain exposure for your business. Always be proactive, quick and kind when working with clients. You get what you put into it — if you devote yourself fully to becoming a freelancer on Fiverr, you’ll see wonderful returns.

Nancy Chauhan, Professional Graphic Designer:

For new or up-and-coming Fiverr freelancers, my advice would be to focus on building a strong portfolio that showcases your skills and expertise clearly. Be proactive in promoting your services, providing exceptional customer service, and delivering high-quality work consistently. Take advantage of Fiverr’s learning resources and community forums to continuously improve your skills and stay updated on industry trends. Finally, be patient and persistent, as success on Fiverr often takes time and dedication.

Ultimately, freelancing offers both an exciting and rewarding career path for all, but also requires strategy and dedication to truly succeed. By evolving your skills, persevering through challenges and maintaining a strong connection with your clients you can build a strong foundation for your online freelancing ventures and transform your independent work journey.

Working for yourself doesn’t just change your life; it can change the world. By leveraging these top tips, you can create a meaningful impact in your industry and beyond. Because as you embrace the freedom and possibilities that freelancing offers, you’ll find that your journey is not just a new career — but a path to creating the life that you want to live.

2024-07-01T15:41:04

(BPT) – Are you one of the 185 million Americans who garden? If not, it’s time to consider joining the crowd. Gardening can be an incredibly rewarding hobby, especially if you grow your own produce.

When you grow your own fruits and vegetables, you can taste the difference between a store-bought tomato and one you pick fresh from the vine. Still not convinced? Discover four ways you can benefit from growing your own food.

1. Savor the taste and the savings

Growing your own produce guarantees you have the freshest fruits and vegetables at the best price. Inflation is top of mind for most Americans, and one especially spendy category is groceries. According to a recent U.S. Census Household Pulse Survey analysis, the average spending on groceries for a four-person household is $1,260 a month.

You can quickly curb your grocery bill by growing your own food. The National Gardening Association found that a 600-square-foot garden, which costs about $70 per year, can yield 300 pounds of fresh produce a year, worth $600. That’s well worth the time, expense and effort you put into cultivating your garden. It’s a win for your wallet and your taste buds.

2. Add variety to your diet

Depending on where you shop, your selection of produce can be limited. However, gardening offers the opportunity to expand your palate. With just a few packets of seeds, you can grow a rainbow of flavor in your backyard!

For example, Ferry-Morse, one of the leading and oldest gardening seed brands in the U.S., has a new Colossal Collection of seeds that will take your gardening to new heights. These six seed varieties will grow vegetables double the average size — or double the yield — for extra flavor, value and bragging rights!

The collection includes The Big Dill Cucumber, Jack’s Magic Pole Beans, Super Nacho Jalapeño Peppers, Beefed Up Beefsteak Tomato, Sasquatch Butternut Squash and Cinderella’s Ride Pumpkins. Not only do they taste good, but they also provide the most bang for your buck. One pack of The Big Dill Cucumber seeds can grow up to $250 worth of fresh cucumbers.

It’s not too late to start your culinary adventure either! Plant vegetables like carrots, corn and eggplant — which will complement a goth garden perfectly — in early summer for fresh produce later on in the season, or experiment with edible flowers like nasturtium for a beautiful, tasty garnish.

To start your culinary adventure, visit Ferry-Morse.com/Collections/Vegetable-Herb-Fruit-Seeds.

3. Get a natural workout

Skip the gym and get your hands dirty instead! Tending to your garden is a labor of love and an engaging workout. You’ll have to dig, plant, weed, water and harvest. Before you know it, you’ll have your exercise in for the day and be one step closer to enjoying the fruits (and vegetables) of your labor. Best of all, you get to do this in the fresh air under sunny skies.

4. Be inspired to try new recipes, like this one for beef stir fry

When you grow your own produce, especially if you’re growing items you don’t usually buy at the store, you’ll be inspired to get creative in the kitchen. Tini Younger, a Next Level Chef season 2 contestant, was inspired by Ferry-Morse’s Colossal Collection to create a beef stir fry using Jack’s Magic Pole Beans.

Start by trimming your Jack’s Magic Pole Beans and combine with chopped broccoli, bell peppers, onions, minced ginger and garlic. In a bowl, season thinly sliced flank steak with garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt and pepper. Add a splash of rice vinegar and a tablespoon of cornstarch, mixing to combine.

Add vegetable oil to a pan or wok and place over medium-to-high heat. Place your sliced steak into your pan and cook for two to three minutes on each side or until brown. Remove your steak from the pan and add your vegetable mixture, cooking for four to five minutes or until crisp. Once your vegetables are cooked, combine them with your cooked beef and keep to the side until your sauce is ready.

Make your sauce in a separate bowl, combining one-quarter cup of soy sauce, a tablespoon of hoisin sauce, half a teaspoon of sesame oil, a tablespoon of your minced garlic and ginger, one-quarter cup of beef stock, two tablespoons of dark brown sugar, and half a tablespoon of cornstarch, which will help thicken your sauce.

Simmer the sauce in a large saucepan over medium heat for one to two minutes, stirring consistently. Once your sauce has thickened, add your cooked vegetables and steak to your pan and combine. Plate your stir fry over a bowl of rice, garnish with chopped green onions, cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice, and enjoy!

These are just four reasons to fall in love with homegrown produce. This season and beyond, embrace the green goodness of growing a produce aisle right in your backyard.

2024-07-01T08:01:00

(BPT) – Did you know that last year alone, the U.S. saw 28 weather-related disasters exceeding $1 billion in damages, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration? While no one can predict or stop Mother Nature, you can choose to build with materials that are better designed to withstand her wrath.

When it comes to reliability, versatility and strength, concrete block is in a class all its own. Not convinced? Check out these seven ways concrete block can weather whatever the weather holds in your area.

1. High winds

High winds are known to cause roof damage and trees to topple in your yard and on your home. However, they can also cause foundation issues, leading to serious structural problems for a home and other buildings.

While high winds can happen anywhere, the central U.S. is especially prone to this weather issue and it’s only getting worse. According to research by the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR), damaging thunderstorm winds in the central U.S. have increased fivefold over the past 40 years.

With concrete block, you don’t have to worry about high winds and flying debris from hurricanes and tornadoes. Thanks to its inherent mass, high compressive strength and interlocking design, concrete masonry structures can generally endure speeds of 120 to 200 miles per hour.

2. Wildfire

In 2023, the National Interagency Fire Center recorded 56,580 wildfires across the U.S., destroying almost 2,700,000 acres. As of June of this year, there have been 17,865 wildfires.

For homes, buildings and other structures in fire-prone areas, using a durable and naturally fire-resistant building material like concrete block is crucial. The composition of concrete, with inert materials like gravel, sand and crushed rock, prevents the material from burning or contributing to the spread of flames.

3. Flood

Floods are the most frequent and expensive disaster in the U.S., responsible for two-thirds of the costs of all natural disasters. According to the nonprofit Flood Defenders, floods have cost U.S. taxpayers $850 billion since 2000. That’s billion with a “B.”

When dealing with potential flooding, concrete masonry is a smart choice because of its exceptional water-resistant properties. Concrete’s dense nature minimizes water absorption, decreasing the risk of erosion or degradation.

4. Earthquakes

While the state of California is statistically the most at-risk of major earthquakes, they have occurred in 39 states since the turn of the 20th century, according to the Insurance Information Institute. In fact, just earlier this year, the East Coast experienced a 4.8 magnitude earthquake that took residents by surprise.

No matter where you live, concrete blocks provide stability and protection from earthquakes. Reinforced concrete masonry structures absorb and distribute seismic forces, reducing the risk of collapse.

5. Extreme temperatures

Extreme hot or cold temperatures can spell trouble for your home. Extreme cold can freeze pipes and cause flooding, but it can also create cracks in your foundation.

Meanwhile, extreme heat strains your home’s infrastructure, including the roof, facade, foundation and air conditioning. This is of particular concern in the U.S. as extreme heat has increased over time and will likely become more frequent and intense, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

Block is also less prone to thermal expansion compared to other materials. This means it’s less likely to crack in hot climates due to temperature fluctuations, maintaining your home’s structural integrity. Also, buildings made of concrete block require less energy for cooling, which can save you money on electricity!

6. Mold and mildew

Mold and mildew aren’t just smelly. They can also lower air quality and cause health problems and surface and structural damage. To get rid of mold, you’ll need specialists, which can cost an average of $5,000, according to Forbes.

Concrete block is devoid of organic material, which creates an inhospitable environment for mold growth. The non-porous nature does not cultivate the necessary nutrients and residual moisture mold and mildew need to grow.

7. UV rays

You probably know that UV rays harm your skin, but did you know they can damage buildings, too? UV rays can penetrate solid surfaces, damaging parts of a structure that are constantly exposed to the sun for long periods.

Concrete masonry can provide protection from UV rays. The mineral composition and density of block make it durable and resistant to deterioration or discoloration caused by prolonged exposure to sunlight.

A durable structure starts with a resilient and versatile material. Whether you’re an architect, engineer, contractor or homeowner, you can benefit from using concrete block. To learn more about the lesser-known benefits of concrete block, visit ConcreteMasonryCheckoff.org.

2024-07-01T07:31:00

(BPT) – Do you live in a rural area? How’s your internet service? Is it good, bad … or just not there?

People in big cities usually have at least one good option to get strong internet. It’s a different story if you live in a small town. There is a big gap. And good internet is about more than watching TV shows or your kids playing video games. Good internet can help with:

Economic equality. With a strong internet connection, small businesses in rural areas can sell products online. Individuals can even start businesses right from their homes. This means someone in New York City can buy honey directly from a little business outside of Tupelo, Mississippi. Without the internet, that sale can’t happen.

Remote work. With good internet, people can work high-paying jobs remotely — no matter where they live. They don’t have to choose between a well-paid job and a nice life in a small community. Many people move away from big cities because they want a better quality of life, lower cost of living and more time in nature. When people can work remotely from rural areas, this brings more money — people spend money locally, and the tax base grows.

Educational opportunities. Good internet gives rural students the same opportunities as everyone else. They can access research materials, take online courses, and easily work with peers and teachers. Kids do not have to do homework in the parking lot of the local diner because they do not have internet at home.

Health care. In rural areas, the closest doctor or hospital might be many miles away. Broadband enables them to use telehealth, which helps people see a doctor online, without leaving home. A good Wi-Fi network in a rural area can also make it easier for first responders to provide potentially life-saving services.

There is a big need for good internet in rural areas. But delivering good internet takes time. Starting a local internet service is very complicated and expensive. The good news is the federal government is providing a lot of money to help rural areas get connected.

One program, BEAD (Broadband, Equity, Access & Deployment), provides $42.45 billion to expand internet access — specifically for remote and rural communities. Any business that applies for and wins this funding can plan, install and deliver broadband internet to rural areas.

But there’s a problem. The funding process can be complicated. If local providers do not apply for these funds, big telecom companies that don’t understand these communities as well might take over in their areas.

Local broadband providers are great for rural communities. In some cases, they are cooperatives (owned by members) or municipal utilities. They know their communities well and can offer a lot of exciting internet services, at a fair cost. They are flexible, open and understand the needs of their customers.

That is why the Calix Funding Consult Program is important. By offering expert advice, along with tools like automation and data analysis, the program helps local internet providers with every step of the BEAD process. This includes planning, applying for the money and following the rules of the program.

Over the past three years, this program has helped local broadband providers get nearly $2 billion in funding. This free program is available for any local business — not just Calix customers. It has been so successful that almost 75% of all government-funded broadband providers are Calix customers.

Calix has been in the broadband industry for 25 years. They have invested a lot in creating a complete broadband platform that helps local internet providers succeed. Calix is dedicated to helping local providers with Build America Buy America (BABA) solutions.

Are you a customer of a local broadband service company? Do you work for one, or do you know someone who does? Ask them to contact Calix for a free consultation about applying for federal funding. Because good internet means good living for all rural communities.