Category: Brandpoint Lifestyle

2025-02-18T07:01:00

(BPT) – Spring is just around the corner — and so are those annoying spring allergy symptoms. If your first signs of spring aren’t a robin or crocus in the yard but itchy eyes, wheezing, sneezing and/or congestion, you’ll want to learn the best ways to handle seasonal pollen allergies, which are a type of hay fever.

“Not everyone suffers from severe allergy symptoms, but allergies and asthma are conditions that often require treatment,” said allergist James Tracy, DO, president of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI). “Many people who have allergies, asthma or eczema don’t realize how much better they can feel after receiving appropriate treatment for their condition.”

The expert ACAAI allergists offer their top suggestions for preventing exposure to allergens and treating your symptoms, so you can start enjoying the delights of the season.

Reduce your exposure

If you know which allergens trigger your symptoms, you’ll want to start limiting your exposure early.

• Pollen count: Start monitoring the pollen count in your area now so you can limit outdoor exposure when counts are high. Keep in mind — pollen counts tend to peak midday.
• Close the windows: Resist the temptation to open windows when temps start to warm up. Instead, close windows (in your car and at home) and let your HVAC system filter contaminants like pollen or mold spores in the air.
• Check your filters: Change your HVAC filter frequently, especially during your worst allergy months. Opt for an HVAC filter with a MERV rating of 11 or 12 for best results.
• Leave it outside: Keep pollen and other allergens outside as much as possible by cleaning shoes before entering the house, then taking shoes off and storing them by the door. If you’ve spent time outdoors, you may want to change clothes and launder what you’ve been wearing. Don’t hang bedding or clothes outdoors to dry, as you’ll simply be collecting more allergens to bring inside. Shower before bed so you don’t sleep on pollen that’s accumulated on your body or in your hair.
• Protect your eyes: Wearing sunglasses when you’re outdoors can help reduce exposing your eyes to pollen in the air.

Get tested

Even if you think you know what you’re allergic to, that may not be the full story. And your allergies can change over time. The only way to be sure about what’s triggering your allergies is to get tested by a board-certified allergist. An allergist can work with you to identify your personal allergen sensitivity profile and get your symptoms under control.

Allergists test to determine exactly what’s causing your symptoms, and help you develop a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs. To locate an allergist in your area, visit ACAAI.org/find-an-allergist.

Discover treatment options

If you’ve tried over-the-counter allergy medications and been frustrated by poor results, talk to your allergist about the best treatment options for your situation. Be aware that common over-the-counter medications like pseudoephedrine may be effective, but they also have side effects. Your allergist might recommend a prescription medication instead of over-the-counter treatments.

Depending on the severity of your symptoms, your allergist may also suggest allergen immunotherapy, either in shot or tablet form. Immunotherapy can be a long-term solution to modify your immune system’s response to specific allergens.

“If it seems as though you’re frequently getting sick with cold-like symptoms — especially during spring or fall — and you aren’t sure about the cause, you could benefit from seeing an allergist,” said Dr. Tracy. “Even if you’ve never been aware of having allergies in the past, they can develop over time. Allergy symptoms often have a negative impact on your quality of life, but you can experience relief with a treatment plan that’s right for you.”

Board-certified allergists are trained and experienced in finding the causes of your most troublesome symptoms, so you can find answers — and relief. Learn more about when you should see an allergist at ACAAI.org.

2025-02-14T12:01:00

(BPT) – Tax season is here, and many Americans are eagerly awaiting their tax refunds. While it might be tempting to splurge on something fun, there are other clever ways to use this extra cash to improve your financial budget this tax season. Here are three savvy tips to help you budget your tax refund:

1. Opt for a budget-friendly phone plan

Consider using your tax refund to switch to a more affordable and flexible phone plan. There are various no-contract plans available that can help you save money every month. For instance, you can find deals offering 50% off your Total Wireless 5G Unlimited plan when you bring your own phone and sign up for Auto Pay*. This means you could get one line for just $25 per month, with taxes and fees included, guaranteed for five years.

By cutting your monthly phone bill in half while still enjoying unlimited wireless data, talk and text, you can redirect those savings toward other financial goals.

2. Strengthen your emergency fund

Think of your emergency fund as a financial safety net. Life happens — whether it’s an unexpected car repair or a medical bill, having some extra savings can keep you from going into debt. Savings can start small, and for first-time savers, it can be daunting to put away money. What’s important is to start somewhere and sooner rather than later. Aim to save at least three to six months’ worth of living expenses.

By doing so, you’ll thank yourself for being prepared for those unexpected moments and avoid the stress of crunching numbers.

3. Make home improvements

Your home is one of your biggest investments, so why not put some of your tax refund into making it better? Consider using your tax refund for necessary repairs or upgrades, such as fixing a leaky roof, updating your kitchen, or adding energy-efficient appliances. These improvements can save you money in the long run and prevent small issues from becoming bigger problems.

It will also improve your living space, making your home more comfortable. Additionally, these enhancements can increase your home’s value if you decide to sell or rent it in the future, allowing you to reap the financial benefits of your improvements.

4. Invest in your future

Your tax refund could be the perfect opportunity to set yourself up for long-term success. Whether it’s contributing to a retirement account, such as an IRA or 401(k), it will help you prepare for the future without the worry of not having a fund to rely on.

In addition to retirement accounts, investing in your future can also mean investing in your education and professional development. Enrolling in classes and courses can help you advance your personal learning as well as career aspirations. Many universities and colleges offer in-person or online courses that can fit best into your schedule.

These investments can yield long-term benefits, helping you achieve financial stability and career growth.

By wisely using your tax refund and exploring cost-effective options, you can enhance your financial budget. Plus, you’ll have more peace of mind knowing you’re making the most of your hard-earned money!

*Disclaimer: Offer applies to new customers who activate on a BYO device. Single-line customers on the Total 5G Unlimited plan or higher must enroll in Auto Pay to receive the full promotional discount, which applies the month after enrollment. Available exclusively online and in Total Wireless retail stores. Bring Your Own Phone requires a compatible, unlocked device and SIM. Additional terms may apply. Check compatibility at https://totalwireless.com/activate.byop.landing.serviceprovider.

2025-02-14T11:35:00

(BPT) – Regularly Showing Your Car Some Love Can Save on Auto Repairs

Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to show your trusty vehicle some love, and maintaining it is the best and most cost-effective way to do so. With rising costs associated with operating and repairing a vehicle, Mercury Insurance is offering some tips to reduce running costs while keeping your vehicle in optimal condition. These simple steps can show your second most costly investment how much you care.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that the average cost of car maintenance and repairs is $975 per year, or approximately $80 per month. Several factors are driving up these costs, including complex vehicle technology; specialized tools needed for repairs; a shortage of skilled technicians; and rising labor costs.

“While we recognize that the cost of vehicle ownership is rising, being proactive can dramatically lower the burden of vehicle repairs down the road,” said Kevin Quinn, Vice President of Auto Claims for Mercury Insurance. “We demand a lot out of our vehicles day in and day out, so keeping up with maintenance is critical and there are ways to do so without spending an arm and a leg.”

Here are some points to consider:

• Routine maintenance: Follow your car’s recommended maintenance schedule, including oil changes and filter replacements, to prevent major repairs and save you money in the long run.
• Shop around for quotes: Get estimates from multiple repair shops before committing to a repair.
• Buy your own parts: Consider purchasing parts online and bringing them to your mechanic to install, which can often be cheaper than buying parts directly from the shop.
• Check tire pressure: Regularly monitor tire pressure and inflate them to the recommended level to improve fuel efficiency and tire lifespan.
• DIY simple repairs: For basic tasks like changing your oil, air filter, or battery, consider doing them yourself to save on labor costs when possible.
• Choose a trusted mechanic: Find a reputable repair shop with a good reputation for quality work and fair pricing.
• Address issues promptly: Don’t ignore warning lights or small problems, as they can escalate into more expensive repairs if left unattended.
• Consider aftermarket parts: Depending on the repair, using aftermarket parts can sometimes be a cost-effective option.

By following these recommendations and giving your car some tender loving care this Valentine’s Day, you can reduce the frequency of costly repairs in the future and extend the life of your vehicle and your relationship as well. For more tips on all things related to car maintenance and ownership, visit Mercury’s blog.

2025-02-13T15:17:00

(BPT) – Long heralded as one of America’s top destinations for thoroughbred racing, Oaklawn Hot Springs has solidified its reputation as a premier destination for luxury travel by securing four distinguished recognitions in the 2025 Forbes Travel Guide (FTG) and Star Awards.

This year Astral Spa remains Arkansas’ only Forbes 4-Star-rated spa. Two Oaklawn restaurants, The OAK room & bar and The Bugler, join the Oaklawn Hotel as recommended destinations in the 2025 FTG. The Oaklawn Hotel was previously recommended in the 2024 FTG.

The Forbes Travel Guide is the only global rating system for luxury hotels, restaurants, spas and ocean cruises. Its rigorous evaluation process assesses properties based on service excellence and guest experience. Oaklawn Hot Springs’ inclusion in the esteemed list highlights its commitment to providing outstanding hospitality.

“It is a great honor to have The OAK room & bar and The Bugler join the Oaklawn Hotel as recommendations in the 2025 Forbes Travel Guide,” said Louis Cella, President of Oaklawn Hot Springs. “To have The Astral Spa again rise to the top as one of the few spas in the country to receive a 4-Star Rating is astounding. We designed Oaklawn to be a world-class resort that Arkansas can be proud of. These recognitions from one of the world’s preeminent hospitality rating systems confirm that our vision has become a reality.”

Located within the Oaklawn Casino, The OAK room & bar is an elegant dining establishment offering refined dishes, an extensive wine selection and craft cocktails. The Bugler provides a more relaxed yet equally refined atmosphere, serving expertly prepared seafood and steak selections with a stunning view of Oaklawn’s historic racetrack from its spacious outdoor patio.

In addition to being recommended by Forbes’ hospitality experts, The OAK room & bar and The Bugler each received 2024 OpenTable Diners’ Choice Awards, which recognize the restaurants based on feedback from confirmed diners.

Astral Spa is a world-class facility that provides visitors with a customized experience. In addition to standard spa services, Astral Spa offers premium amenities, including a state-of-the-art fitness center, dedicated men’s and women’s wet lounges, and locker rooms equipped with heated loungers, needle showers, steam rooms, infrared saunas, whirlpool tubs, cold rooms and a dedicated co-ed parlor.

Oaklawn Hotel is located adjacent to one of the country’s premiere Thoroughbred racetracks. Fans from across the globe travel to Hot Springs to experience thoroughbred racing at its highest level — the road to the Kentucky Derby begins at Oaklawn. A stay at Oaklawn provides guests with valet services, friendly bellmen, lavish room amenities, outstanding room service, and expert assistance from experienced concierges.

Located in scenic Hot Springs, Arkansas, only minutes from Hot Springs National Park and endless outdoor recreation opportunities, Oaklawn Hot Springs originally emerged as one of the world’s premier thoroughbred racetracks. Today Oaklawn Hot Springs offers guests a variety of leisure and entertainment options including racing, gaming, sports betting, fine dining and live performances. Whether you are seeking horseracing at its highest level, a world-class spa experience or the unique flavors of an award-winning restaurant, Oaklawn is your destination in the beautiful Ouachita Mountains.

Visit oaklawn.com to plan your experience.

Must be 18 for race gambling and 21 for casino gaming. Always bet responsibly. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, please call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.ncpgambling.org.

Please drink responsibly. Learn more at responsibility.org.

2025-02-13T15:05:00

(BPT) – By McAfee

It started with a DM.

For five months, 25-year-old computer programmer Maggie K. exchanged daily messages with the man she met on Instagram, convinced she had found something real.

When it was finally time to meet in person, he never showed. Instead, he claimed he missed his flight and needed money to rebook. Desperate to finally see him, she sent the cash.

Then, silence. His accounts vanished. He hadn’t just ghosted her — he had never existed at all. But Maggie isn’t alone: McAfee’s latest research reveals more than half (52%) of people have been scammed out of money or pressured to send money or gifts by someone they met online.

“I ignored my gut feeling … I sent him $1,200. Then he disappeared,” Maggie told McAfee, hoping that her story would educate others. “When I reported the scam, the police told me his images were AI-generated. He wasn’t even a real person. That was the scariest part — I had trusted someone who never even existed.”

How AI is making romance scams more sophisticated

These scams work because they prey on trust and emotions. And they aren’t just targeting the naïve; anyone, even tech professionals, as Maggie’s case shows, can be fooled.

And romance scams aren’t just happening in dating apps anymore. Social media, messaging platforms and AI chatbots are fueling an explosion of online romance fraud.

McAfee’s findings highlight a staggering rise in:

• AI-powered scams: More than 1 in 4 people (26%) say they — or someone they know — have been approached by an AI chatbot posing as a real person on a dating app or social media.
• Celebrity impostor scams: 1 in 5 (21%) have been contacted by someone pretending to be a well-known public figure. Of those who fell for it, 33% lost money, with an average reported loss of $1,985.
• Fake romance scam websites: In the seven weeks leading up to Valentine’s Day, McAfee blocked a staggering 321,509 fraudulent URLs designed to lure in victims.

The costs: Your time, money, trust and personal data

With 62% of people saying they’ve used dating apps, social media or messaging platforms to connect with potential partners, scammers have a bigger pool of victims than ever before.

Younger users are the most active online daters, with 31% of 18-24-year-olds currently using online dating platforms. Tinder is the most popular dating app overall (46%), with its highest engagement among 18-24-year-olds (73%). Just over 40% of respondents said they use Instagram, 29% use Snapchat and 25% use TikTok to meet potential partners. But these platforms also present new risks, as fake apps designed to steal personal information lurk in app stores.

McAfee researchers found nearly 11,000 attempts to download fraudulent dating apps in recent months. The most impersonated?

• Tinder (55%)
• OKCupid (29%)
• Badoo (7%)
• Hinge (7%)
• Bumble (2%)

Downloading a fake app could expose your login credentials, financial information or even install malware onto your device.

And once money is lost, it’s rarely recovered, as scammers use cryptocurrency, untraceable gift cards and offshore accounts to move stolen funds.

Recognizing romance scam red flags

McAfee researchers urge anyone looking for love online to stay vigilant by following these critical safety measures:

1) Watch for “love bombing.” Scammers overwhelm victims with affection early on to gain trust.

2) Verify their identity. Use reverse image searches and insist on live video calls, which AI-generated scammers avoid.

3) Never send money. No real partner will pressure you for financial help — especially when you’ve never met.

4) Be wary of celebrity DMs. If a famous figure suddenly messages you, it’s likely a scam.

5) Avoid suspicious links. McAfee blocked over 321,000 fraudulent dating sites — avoid clicking on unknown links or apps.

6) Use online protection tools. Tools like McAfee+ can detect and block suspicious messages, phishing attempts and AI-generated fraud in real time. McAfee+ offers maximum identity, privacy and device protection to detect and prevent fraudulent activity before it causes harm.

2025-02-13T02:01:00

(BPT) – Your heart beats about 100,000 times daily, bringing oxygen and nutrients to every cell to keep your body working its best. Just as an engine keeps a car moving, your heart is the driving force that keeps your body healthy and active. And, much like you’d maintain your car’s engine, healthy habits are vital to keeping your heart functioning properly and preventing heart disease — the leading cause of death in the United States.

What is Coronary Artery Disease?

The most common type of heart disease is coronary artery disease (CAD), a condition where plaque builds up in the heart’s arteries and decreases blood flow. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), roughly 21 million American adults have CAD. CAD is known as the “silent killer,” meaning it can progress slowly in patients with no symptoms until it causes a heart attack or other complications.

Ginger Bierdeman, 58 years old, a nurse, avid football fan, and doting aunt, knew she was at greater risk of CAD because of her family history after losing her father to a heart attack. She enrolled in a heart health program through her local hospital and received a standard coronary CT scan of her heart (also known as CCTA). The technology — which studies multiple variables that the human eye can easily miss — uses AI to analyze X-rays to build a 3D model of the heart highlighting areas where CAD is present. The analysis identified areas of concern, specifically a build-up of plaque, which helped her doctor develop her personalized treatment plan. Using what she learned from this analysis, Ginger has started choosing healthier meals, exercising regularly, and taking prescribed medications from her doctor. Now she encourages all her family and friends to get screened so they can also see the full picture of their heart health.

“I think it’s important for everyone to take control of their health,” said Ginger. “If you do have a history of family heart disease, it is especially important that you get all the information you need to make good decisions for your life and lifestyle.”

How do I get screened?

February is American Heart Month, making it the perfect time to take the first step toward improving your heart health. Talk to your doctor about your screening options. In the past, tests to diagnose CAD were often limited to ones that were invasive or not precise enough, which meant extra testing could be required to confirm disease severity and treatment options. One of these, called stress tests, are not always accurate and cannot assess plaque buildup.

Fortunately, newer technologies have become available that allow doctors to detect issues earlier, diagnose CAD more accurately, and develop customized treatment plans that help slow the progression of the disease. CCTA is the #1 test recommended in guidelines by the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology. HeartFlow Analysis is an AI-powered technology applied after a CCTA test that creates a color-coded 3D model of the heart’s arteries showing the impact of plaque, narrowings and blockages. This enables your doctor to better understand the potential effect on blood flow to your heart — information that otherwise would only be available with a riskier, more invasive procedure.

“Advancements in diagnostic technology are making it easier for us to uncover heart issues before they become life-threatening,” said Malissa Wood, MD, Vice President and Chief Physician Executive at Lee Health Heart Institute. “If you have a family history of heart disease, are experiencing symptoms, or want to have a better understanding of your heart health, talk to your doctor about your options.”

To learn more about HeartFlow Analysis, go to: https://www.heartflow.com/learn.

2025-02-10T10:01:00

(BPT) – If you have struggled with fingerprints all over your stainless steel or stubborn stains on your cooktop, now is the time to take your cleaning routine to the next level and upgrade to products that are right for the job. The products you use matter, and Weiman makes products specifically designed for the unique surfaces you need to clean in your home. And their products don’t just clean they are specially formulated to also protect your surfaces and always leave them looking spectacular.

Here are top products and expert tips to help you upgrade your cleaning habits so all your home’s surfaces aren’t just clean for the moment but will be protected and preserved to look beautiful and be easily maintained year-round.

Keep your stainless steel appliances cleaner for longer

Stainless steel appliances bring a sleek, modern look to any home, but they can quickly collect grease, fingerprints, smudges, watermarks and dust. If your stainless steel never seems to stay spotless for long, using the right cleaner can make all the difference.

For a lasting clean and protection against future messes, the Weiman Stainless Steel Cleaner Kit provides everything you need to deliver a streak-free shine while actively repelling fingerprints and smudges. It’s safe to use on kitchen appliances, sinks, range hoods, backsplashes and grills. This three-in-one product ensures easy, long-lasting results:

• Clean: Easily removes fingerprints, smudges, residue and grease.
• Shine: Leaves a brilliant streak-free finish with no residue, unlike all-purpose cleaners.
• Protect: Creates an invisible barrier that resists dust, dirt and fingerprints to keep stainless steel looking beautiful longer.

Make your glass cooktop look like new – without scratches

Glass and ceramic cooktops are sleek and practical for today’s kitchens, but they’re difficult to maintain, especially when dealing with burned-on food, grease and grime. Many all-purpose cleaners and abrasive formulas can scratch these delicate surfaces, making it harder to keep your cooktop looking its best.

For a deep clean without damage, the Weiman Cooktop and Stove Top Cleaner Kit includes everything you need to restore shine and remove tough messes—without scratching:

• Non-abrasive Cooktop 3-in-1 Cream: Apply directly to the cooktop and use the scrubbing pad to break down grease and grime.
• Use the scraper tool to remove any remaining stuck on food, water stains or burn rings.
• Finish by buffing with a paper towel for a polished, streak-free look.

Unlike other cleaners that may be too harsh for glass and ceramic cooktops causing scratches, Weiman’s formula is designed for safe use on major brands, including GE, Whirlpool, Frigidaire and Thermador, helping to maintain the cooktop’s finish.

Pro tip: Always let your cooktop cool completely before cleaning to ensure the best results.

Revive floors for a fresh start

Floors are the foundation of any room’s look and feel, so keeping them clean and well-maintained is essential. Whether you have hardwood, tile, or stone, the right cleaning products help preserve their beauty and longevity.

Hardwood floors add warmth and elegance to a home, but daily foot traffic, kids and pets can cause wear overtime. Weiman Hardwood Floor Cleaner is specially formulated to clean without streaking, dulling or leaving sticky residue. Its pH-neutral formula is gentle yet effective, making it safe for finished hardwood, engineered hardwood, vinyl and laminate flooring. Plus, it’s EPA Safer Choice Certified, meaning it’s safer to use around kids and pets.

Pro tip: For best results, sweep or dry mop first to remove loose dust and debris before applying cleaner.

Tile and stone floors are durable and easy to maintain, but the right cleaner helps preserve their natural shine. Weiman Stone and Tile Cleaner is specially formulated to clean without leaving streaks or residue and is safe for sealed marble, granite, ceramic and porcelain tile, grout, vinyl and any other non-porous hard surfaces.

Pro tip: Avoid excess water or overly wet mops on stone and tile to prevent staining or discoloration.

Protect Sensitive Stone Countertops

Kitchen and bathroom countertops endure daily messes, from spills to watermarks, making regular maintenance essential. Weiman Granite & Stone 3-In-1 Clean, Polish & Protect not only cleans but also helps resist stains while enhancing the natural luster of sealed stone surfaces. Its pH-neutral, non-acidic formula safely removes watermarks without leaving streaks or residue.

Pro tip: To maintain shine and prevent buildup, wipe countertops daily with a soft cloth and use Weiman Granite & Stone 3-In-1 regularly to keep surfaces looking polished and pristine.

Upgrade from an average all-purpose cleaner to products designed for each surface in your home; because the right cleaning solution doesn’t just clean, it protects and preserves for years to come.

2025-02-06T12:21:00

(BPT) – Savings can help meet unexpected expenses, fund short-term spending goals and protect against unanticipated life events. At the same time, leaving too much of your money uninvested can jeopardize long-term financial goals like retirement. Set a goal to be more intentional with your savings by getting clear on your savings goals, ensuring your savings earn a competitive return and putting excess cash to work for your long-term financial goals.

Set savings goals

To determine your personal savings goals, consider your ability to withstand savings shocks and potential income loss, as well as any short-term spending goals such as buying a car or taking a vacation.

• Step 1: Start by ensuring you have a buffer for unexpected expenses. Aim to have at least $2,000 or about half a month’s household expenses, whichever is greater, set aside in a cash savings account. If you’ve navigated any changes in the last year that impact your income or spending, it’s also worthwhile to revisit that emergency savings goal.
• Step 2: You might also have additional short-term financial goals. Perhaps you’re planning a home renovation or saving up for a wedding. Money to fund these goals that are a year or two away probably shouldn’t be exposed to much risk of loss and may be best kept in a cash savings account.
• Step 3: Think about building a more substantial financial safety net that can cover three-to-six months of living expenses. This fund will help you manage financial disruptions, such as job loss or other longer-term income interruptions. This fund might also be used to help with longer-term goals like retirement savings, but such money, however it is invested, should be easily accessible if needed to bridge periods of income loss. Certain accounts like a 401(k) or traditional IRA with limited ability for early withdrawals likely won’t be the best homes for these funds.

Get specific about why you’re saving and create an action plan. Start small and build. Saving something is better than not saving at all, especially when saving in an account with a competitive yield. Yield, or annual competitive yield (APY), indicates how much interest or return you can expect to earn on your savings in a given account over a year. Put simply, the higher the APY, the more your savings can grow.

Earn what you deserve

Many Americans aren’t getting the return they deserve on their savings. Whether you’re just starting to set aside funds for an emergency or you already have substantial cash saved, make sure you know how much that cash is “earning.” Saving with intention means selecting the best savings vehicle for your personal savings goals. Consider whether you value FDIC insurance, ease of money movement or if you’re simply looking for the highest return on your savings.

Letting your money sit in an average bank savings account might mean your money doesn’t have much chance to grow. The average bank savings account yield as of Dec. 16, 2024, was 0.42% according to the FDIC National Rate and Rate Caps. That means for each $100 you save you’ll earn 42 cents annually. Compare this to a higher yielding account like Vanguard’s Cash Plus Account, which offers a sweep program currently yielding 3.65% APY effective Jan. 6, 2025.*

The cash you keep easily accessible does not need to sit idly on the sidelines. It can work for you in a high-yielding account. Keeping your hard-earned money in a low-yielding account could mean leaving money for short- and long-term goals on the table.

Build on your savings foundation

A well-funded emergency savings account can prevent you from taking on high-interest debt, tapping into a retirement account or turning to other sources that could slow your long-term financial progress.

While crucial for funding short-term financial goals, an intentional savings plan can also create the foundation for a longer-term financial plan. Once you have a solid savings plan in place, consider whether you can move excess cash — beyond the amount needed to meet your identified savings goals — into higher-earning-potential asset classes like stocks and bonds for long-term goals like retirement.

When you’re intentional about your savings goal and seeking out the best home for your savings, even the cash you choose to keep more readily accessible, outside of stock and bond investments, has the opportunity to grow.

Whether your savings goal is to start your first rainy-day fund or shop around for higher returns on your well-funded piggybank, ensure you have clear goals and a plan for reaching them.

All investing is subject to risk, including the possible loss of the money you invest.

Investments in bonds are subject to interest rate, credit, and inflation risk.

*The APY will vary and may change at any time. APY is current as of date of publication. Current APY is available at vanguard.com.

The Vanguard Cash Plus Account is a brokerage account offered by Vanguard Brokerage Services, a division of Vanguard Marketing Corporation, member FINRA and SIPC. Under the Sweep Program, Eligible Balances swept to Program Banks are not securities: They are not covered by SIPC but are eligible for FDIC insurance, subject to applicable limits. Money market funds held in the account are not guaranteed or insured by the FDIC but are securities eligible for SIPC coverage. See the Vanguard Bank Sweep Products Terms of Use and Program Bank list on vanguard.com for more information.

There may be other differences between these products that must be considered prior to investing.

© 2025 The Vanguard Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

2025-02-06T08:01:00

(BPT) – The psychology of color reveals what most people already know: Color can evoke strong emotions. Members of the design team at Whirlpool Corporation are well versed in how color impacts mood, which is one of the reasons they spent years researching color trends to identify the best possible choice for the KitchenAid^® 2025 Color of the Year: Butter.

“The Color of the Year program is specifically led by the Whirlpool Color, Finish, and Material team. We spend years analyzing interior design, social, cultural and aesthetic trends to help determine the new Color of the Year — a decision that is often many years in the process,” said Brittni Pertijs, Design Manager: Color, Material and Finish at Whirlpool Corporation. “Color of the Year focuses on a specific colorway to express the emotions people want to feel that year.”

This year’s choice for Color of the Year: Butter

It’s not just for baking anymore! This modern yellow with a creamy, satin finish imparts a uniquely comforting vibe, with a nostalgic aura all its own.

“As a result of our trend tracking, our team saw yellow continually pop up,” said Pertijs. “Knowing we wanted to tap into comfort and nostalgia, this soft, energizing butter yellow felt like the perfect marriage of all those elements.”

According to a 2024 online Ipsos Survey*, nearly 3 in 4 consumers (72%) agree that a buttery yellow color radiates warmth and comfort, and 67% associate the color with a sense of richness and creaminess — making it a top choice for creating a welcoming atmosphere in the kitchen. More than half (52%) connect the hue with comforting homemade meals, and the same percentage agree that a buttery yellow color transports them back to nostalgic childhood memories. A majority of consumers (64%) also connect this color to the simple pleasures in life.

“The color yellow has the ability to transport you back in time, evoking some of your warmest memories,” added Pertijs. “The color might remind people of kitchens from the 1950s or 1960s that were decorated with a similar soft yellow color. While it echoes past kitchens, Butter feels fresh and modern, leaning into present-day design trends. It’s a classic neutral that will last over the years.”

Design tips: How to make the most of this year’s color

To maximize the warm, comfy vibes of this year’s Color of the Year, you can choose to upgrade to the new KitchenAid^® Stand Mixer in Butter. The Butter Stand Mixer works well as a design feature in any style of home, from eclectic and traditional styles to clean and contemporary spaces. It’s also created to fit in perfectly with the latest kitchen designs and finishes.

While some may recall the Majestic Yellow color, “that was developed in 1995, which was reflective of interior trends such as red cherry woods and glossy countertop finishes. The new Butter model represents today’s design trends, in which woods are more natural and countertops are matte and satin,” explained Pertijs.

For anyone looking to accessorize or update their kitchen this year, the Butter Stand Mixer complements various shades of blue well, including periwinkle blue. If you’re looking to mix and match it with other appliances, Butter looks great with the KitchenAid Blue Velvet colorway, or more muted tones like sage green.

Pertijs also recommends pairing the Butter Stand Mixer with the KitchenAid^® Bread Bowl attachment: “They go together like bread and butter (pun intended)!”

Make your kitchen more cozy, comforting and welcoming this year with the rich color of Butter. You can learn more about this year’s KitchenAid^® Stand Mixer Color of the Year at KitchenAid.com.

*Source: An online Ipsos survey in the US, UK, MX, DE, CA, AUS (n=1,000 per country), general population, 18 years of age and older. Data is nationally representative by age, gender, race/ethnicity and region. The survey was fielded between September 27-October 1, 2024.

2025-02-06T00:01:00

(BPT) – As we settle into the new year, many of us are reflecting on our goals we made in January when declaring our New Year’s resolutions.

For many, mental health was likely a key focus, continuing the trend from last year when about 40% of resolutions were aimed at improving mental well-being. However, as the novelty of January fades, it’s easy for even the best intentions to slip. Studies have shown that by February, many people have already abandoned their resolutions.

Rather than letting your commitment to mental health dim, now is the perfect time to renew your focus and keep your mental health a priority.

Whether you’re following through on your resolution to improve your mental well-being or simply seeking to continue your efforts, staying intentional about mental wellness can have lasting benefits for both your emotional and physical health.

Dr. Donald Tavakoli, UnitedHealthcare’s National Medical Director for Behavioral Health, provides the following tips to help you keep your mental health on track throughout the year:

1. Build a supportive network

Surrounding yourself with understanding friends, family and mentors can provide essential emotional support. A strong social network can help prevent feelings of isolation and promote resilience. Research shows that social support plays a crucial role in mental health. Don’t be afraid to reach out and be open with your loved ones.

2. Emphasize sleep

Adequate sleep is fundamental to mental well-being as insufficient sleep may negatively affect emotional regulation and cognitive function. Prioritize restful sleep by establishing a consistent sleep schedule, creating a calming bedtime routine and optimizing your sleep environment. Proper sleep also benefits your overall well-being.

3. Limit social media:

Studies have linked excessive social media use to a higher risk of depression and anxiety, particularly among young people. It’s important to keep in mind that a person’s social feed often doesn’t reflect their entire life story. Instead, try to embrace the ups and downs of life as normal, focus on the here and now, and invest in your offline relationships.

4. Reach out for professional support

Don’t hesitate to reach out to your primary care physician (PCP). If you don’t have a PCP, now is a great time to establish a relationship with one. Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Your PCP can provide valuable insights and care, and referrals if needed.

5. Utilize your insurance benefits

You might be surprised to learn that your health insurance plan includes mental health benefits which may cover employee assistance programs, virtual therapy sessions, coaching or digital self-help tools such as Calm Health. These options make it easy to access the support you need in different ways. If you have mild behavioral health concerns, digital self-help tools and virtual coaching can be a great place to begin. If you have any questions or need more details, simply call the number on your insurance card for assistance.

Prioritizing mental health enables you to work toward a more balanced and fulfilling life. By improving your mental well-being, you set the stage for achieving broader goals, including nurturing relationships and fostering personal growth. Make mental health a central focus as you navigate 2025.

For more information about mental health resources, visit UHC.com.