New study: Americans have $500 in emergency savings

2025-08-25T09:01:00

(BPT) – The median emergency savings for Americans is $500, according to new Empower research. The size of the safety net varies by generation, with Boomers saving a median of $2,000 — five times that of Gen Z’s reserves of $400. One-third of Americans (32%) don’t have an emergency savings fund and 29% say they can’t afford an unexpected expense over $400.

Half of Americans admit they’re stressed about their current level of emergency savings (50%) and recognize the importance of a safety net. Some 75% of Americans agree emergency savings are essential for financial security and 64% say it’s a financial priority for them.

Emergency savings are top of mind — and a moving target

The majority of Americans (64%) say growing their emergency savings is a financial priority right now — even if they’re still finding their financial footing. So where do things stand?

The median emergency savings balance for Americans:

  • Overall: $500
  • Gen Z: $400
  • Millennials: $300
  • Gen X: $500
  • Boomers: $2,000

A third (30%) do not believe they could handle unexpected expenses that could arise in the year ahead. Close to 1 in 5 Americans say their savings would cover less than a month of expenses (18%).

The majority (63%) say the rising cost of living has made it harder to build or maintain emergency savings, and 35% say the economy and tariffs have caused them to increase their contributions. More than half (58%) say saving for emergencies feels “almost impossible” with how expensive everything is right now.

In the past year, many have faced unplanned financial events including:

  • Car repairs (26%)
  • Medical bills (24%)
  • Home repairs (19%)
  • Job loss or income reduction (14%)
  • Pet emergency (11%)

Nearly two-thirds (64%) of Americans say emergency savings are a financial priority for them in 2025. Some 17% contribute to their fund monthly as part of their budget, and 31% say they’ve added to their savings in the past month.

Stress meets strategy

Most take a “better safe than sorry” approach to emergency savings and want to put away as much as possible (39%), with half (52%) wishing they had started saving sooner. Close to 1 in 5 are more modest, saving up “just enough to sleep at night” (17%), while 13% are opportunity cost conscious — they balance emergency savings with other investments.

But the study reveals awareness and momentum: Nearly half (48%) believe their emergency savings will grow over the next year:

  • 20% add to their fund sporadically when they have extra money
  • 12% have set up automatic monthly contributions

What gets in the way?

Nearly a quarter (23%) say they maintain the same emergency savings approach regardless of economic conditions, though Americans cite several common roadblocks to saving for a rainy day:

  • 39% say inflation and rising prices are the top barrier
  • 35% point to high monthly expenses
  • 32% say their income is too low or irregular
  • 22% prioritize paying off debt first

Close to half (46%) say their emergency savings account has less money compared to a year ago and more than 2 in 5 (42%) say their savings wouldn’t help them if they lost their job today. Some 40% say they can count on their family to help if something goes wrong financially.

Where do Americans keep their safety nets?

Around 37% of Americans store their emergency saving fund in a regular savings account. A quarter use a checking account (23%). Nearly 1 in 5 keep emergency cash at home (19%) — a figure that rises to 27% among Gen Z.

Only 16% have set a specific goal of saving six months of expenses. But the lack of a precise number isn’t stopping people from trying. In fact, 41% don’t have a target at all — but they’re putting away money as they go.

Generational check-in

  • Gen Z: 25% say they don’t have emergency savings yet, but a notable 33% have worked with a financial professional to help them get started.
  • Millennials: Nearly 3 in 10 have consulted an advisor about emergency savings, and they’re increasingly focused on building long-term security.
  • Gen X: The most likely generation to say they couldn’t afford an unexpected $400 expense (35%).
  • Boomers: Feel they could handle an emergency expense over $10,000.

A roadmap for resilience

When asked what would make the biggest difference in their ability to save more, respondents pointed to:

  • Higher income (48%)
  • Lower monthly expenses (37%)
  • Lower inflation or more stable prices (36%)
  • Ability to pay off debt first (27%)
  • Better tools and smarter automation (9%)

Safety net snapshot

Americans are expecting the unexpected, and many are seeking advice: More than 1 in 4 people (26%) have worked with a financial professional to plan for emergencies, including 33% of Gen Zers and 29% of Millennials.

Methodology:

Empower’s “The Safety Net” study is based on online survey responses from 2,202 Americans ages 18+ fielded by a third-party panel provider from June 3-5, 2025. The survey is weighted to be nationally representative of U.S. adults.

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Home cooking celebrated in new ‘Superman: The Official Cookbook’

2025-08-22T12:01:00

(BPT) – Ever wonder what kind of food Superman grew up on? Wonder no more. Continuing a Kent Family tradition, Martha has put together an heirloom cookbook full of Clark’s favorite dishes, with help from his friends and colleagues. Together, they’ve recreated the beef bourguignon and ketchup from Lois and Clark’s first date, Cyborg’s lucky game day potato skins and J’onn’s Chocos. Martha even recreated Plurb, which she hears is wonderfully awful. She wasn’t quite ready to taste that one herself.

In “Superman: The Official Cookbook: Recipes from Smallville to the Hall of Justice and Beyond” you’ll be fully steeped in DC Comics lore courtesy of the authors, comics writer Jermaine McLaughlin and recipe developer and food stylist Elena Craig.

Each chapter revisits iconic moments in Superman’s life, sorted by various places he’s called home: from Smallville and Metropolis to the Hall of Justice and the Fortress of Solitude. The recipes are appropriate for every skill level, with step-by-step instructions, accessible ingredients and deliciously vivid food photography, making this book ideal for home cooks of all stripes.

From custom cover artwork to gorgeous food photography and fun tidbits about your favorite characters, this cookbook was crafted with fans at its heart.

Want a sneak peek? Here are three recipes to bring out the superhero in every home cook.

photo and page from a recipe book for Argo City Salad

Argo City Salad
Yield: 6 servings

Martha says: “I designed this family-style salad for you to share with your cousin, Kara, whenever she visits. Kryptonian meals are hard to replicate on Earth, but tend to be nutrient-packed for efficiency, and Kara’s assured me this salad does a nice job of reminding her of life in Argo City.”

Salad:
2 cups sugar snap peas
1 English cucumber
4 small rainbow carrots, scrubbed
5 green onions
1 cup Sungold tomatoes, halved
1 15-ounce can chickpeas, drained, aquafaba reserved
1 avocado, peeled, pitted and diced
1 tablespoon lime juice
6 cups mixed salad greens
2 blood oranges, sliced, peeled and pithed

Dressing:
1 cup aquafaba
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1 ripe avocado, peeled and pitted
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
1/4 cup olive oil
Freshly ground black pepper

Special tools:
Blender
Large platter

To make the salad: Trim the ends of the snap peas, cut them into 1/2-inch pieces, and add them to a large bowl. Cut the cucumber in half lengthwise, use a small spoon to scrape out the seeds, and slice on an angle. Add to the bowl. Thinly slice the carrots and the white and light green parts of the green onion and add them to the bowl. Add tomatoes and drained chickpeas. Add the avocado and lime juice and stir gently to mix. Set aside.

To make the dressing: Add the aquafaba, lime juice, salt, garlic powder and onion powder to the pitcher of a blender. Run the blender on high speed until the mixture is thick, opaque, and has almost doubled in size, 1-2 minutes. Stop the blender and add the avocado and apple cider vinegar. Run the blender on high again until the mixture is completely smooth. With the blender on medium-low, slowly add oil through the hole in the lid until incorporated. Taste, add black pepper, and adjust seasoning as desired.

To assemble the salad: Arrange the salad greens on a large platter. Place the mixed vegetables down the center of the platter. Scatter the orange rounds over the salad. Drizzle with the dressing and serve with the rest of the dressing on the side. Leftover dressing can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

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Black and White Tea Sandwiches
Yield: 18 sandwiches

Apparently, this dish helped welcome Damian Wayne into the family. Alfred insists these black and white tea sandwiches helped convince Damian to put down his sword and indulge in some friendly conversation.

Cucumber Sandwiches:
1/2 English cucumber
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1 tablespoon finely snipped chives
1/2 cup cream cheese spread
6 slices dark rye or black bread

Chocolate Orange Sandwiches:
1/3 cup chocolate hazelnut spread or favorite chocolate spread, divided
6 slices white bread
2 tablespoons orange marmalade, divided

Special tools:
Box grater
Fine-mesh strainer
1 1/2-by-4-inch bat-shaped cookie cutter
Paring knife
2-inch round cookie cutter

To make the cucumber sandwiches: Peel the cucumber, slice it in half lengthwise, and use a small spoon to scrape out the seeds. Using the largest hole on a box grater, shred cucumber into a medium bowl and then combine it with the salt. Transfer cucumber to a fine-mesh strainer placed over the bowl, weight it down with a bowl or plate, and leave it to drain for 15 minutes. After 15 minutes, give the cucumber a press with your hands to release any remaining liquid, discard the liquid, and add the cucumber back to the bowl. Add the chives and cream cheese to the bowl and mix until thoroughly combined.

Divide the mixture among 3 slices of the bread, then top each with the remaining slices. Use the cookie cutter to cut three bats out of each sandwich. With an intricate shape like the bat, a small paring knife is helpful to complete the cuts. Arrange on a plate loosely covered with paper towel and refrigerate while making the chocolate sandwiches.

To make the chocolate sandwiches: Spread a thin layer of chocolate spread on each piece of bread, about 1 tablespoon for each slice. Spread a thin layer of orange marmalade on half of the bread pieces, about 1 1/2 teaspoons each. Top with the other bread slices and use circle cookie cutter to cut 3 circles from each sandwich.

Daily Cream Donuts

Daily Cream Donuts
Yield: 10 donuts

It’s not often that a newspaper gets its own signature donut. When the Metropolis Chamber of Commerce held an open competition to find the best Daily Planet–themed dessert, this dish won in a landslide.

Pastry cream filling:
1/3 cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons cornstarch
4 egg yolks
1 1/4 cups milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla paste

Dough:
3/4 cup whole milk
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, divided
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
2 1/2 teaspoons quick-rise yeast
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla paste
2 quarts canola or peanut oil for brushing and deep-frying

Chocolate glaze:
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 1/4 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup bittersweet chocolate chips, melted
4-6 tablespoons hot water, plus more as needed

Vanilla glaze:
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
2 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
5 tablespoons hot water, plus more as needed

Special tools:
Hand mixer
Instant-read thermometer
Stand mixer with paddle attachment
3-inch round biscuit cutter
Deep fryer or Dutch oven
Deep-frying thermometer
Pastry bag fitted with a large writing tip

To make the pastry cream filling: Add the granulated sugar, flour, cornstarch and egg yolks to a large bowl. Whisk with hand mixer on high speed until thick and pale, about 2 minutes. Set aside.

In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, bring milk to a simmer. Slowly pour about one-third of the milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly. Return the egg mixture to the remaining milk in the pan and continue cooking over medium-low heat, whisking and scraping the bottom and edges of the pot to prevent burning. Once the mixture starts to bubble, cook about 1 minute more until it thickens noticeably. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla paste. Transfer to an airtight container, pressing a piece of wax or parchment paper onto the surface and refrigerate until needed. The pastry cream must be completely chilled before filling the donuts.

To make the dough: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the milk and butter and heat, stirring, until butter has melted and the mixture is hot but not boiling (about 125F on a thermometer). Remove from the heat.

Fit stand mixer with the paddle attachment. In the mixing bowl, combine 2 1/2 cups of the flour, granulated sugar, salt and yeast and beat on low speed to mix. Add the hot milk mixture, increase speed to medium, and beat until well blended. Add the eggs and vanilla paste and beat until fully incorporated, about 2 minutes. Add the remaining 3/4 cup flour and beat until the dough is well blended and smooth, about 1 minute longer. The dough will not pull away from the sides of the bowl and will still be somewhat sticky.

Line a baking sheet with wax paper and brush the paper with oil. Fit a second baking sheet with a wire rack or line it with paper towels. On a generously floured work surface, roll out the dough into a circle 10 inches in diameter and 1/2 inch thick. Using a 3-inch round biscuit cutter, cut out as many donuts as possible. Transfer the donuts to the oiled paper. Gather up the donut scraps and repeat rolling and cutting. Cover donuts with a clean kitchen towel and let rise until soft and puffy, about 30 minutes.

Pour oil to a depth of 2 inches into a deep fryer or Dutch oven and warm over medium-high heat until it reads between 320 and 325F on a deep-frying thermometer. Carefully lower 1 or 2 donuts into the hot oil and fry until dark golden, about 1 1/2 minutes. Turn donuts over and fry until dark golden on the second side, about 1 minute longer. Transfer to the wire rack baking sheet. Repeat to fry the remaining donuts, allowing the oil to return to between 320 and 325F between batches.

Once the donuts are cool, fill a pastry bag, fitted with large writing tip, with the pastry cream. Use a chopstick to poke a hole in the side of each donut, sticking it in about halfway across. Fill each well with pastry cream until you see the center puff slightly.

To make the chocolate glaze: Combine the butter, powdered sugar and melted chocolate in a medium bowl, whisking until combined. Add hot water until you have a glaze that is still thick but ribbons off the spoon. Glaze each donut by dipping the top into the glaze and letting the excess drip back into the bowl. Set on a baking sheet. When all the donuts have been glazed, let them set up for 10 minutes before moving on to the vanilla glaze.

To make the vanilla glaze: In a small bowl, mix together the butter, powdered sugar and vanilla. Add the hot water until you have a glaze that is still thick but ribbons off the spoon. Place the vanilla glaze into a squeeze bottle with a fine tip or a pastry bag fitted with a small writing tip. Pipe the globe grid onto each donut. Allow to set for 10 minutes before serving.

The donuts are best served day of, but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Time to get cooking! From Jimmy Olsen’s go-to food truck gyro wrap to Oliver Queen’s spicy chili, not to mention Martha’s own award-winning apple pie, these meals combine one-of-a-kind design with comfort-food flavors so you’ll feel at home, wherever you might hang your cape.

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Check out all the super recipes in the new “Superman: The Official Cookbook,” now available on Amazon.com.

Spruce Up Your Space: 5 Easy Summer DIY Projects for Your Home

2025-08-22T08:57:01

(BPT) – There’s still plenty of summer left to enjoy! It’s also the perfect season to refresh your space and take on a few home improvement projects. With longer days and warmer weather, it’s a great time to roll up your sleeves and get things done around the house. From quick touch-ups to small but mighty upgrades, these five tasks will have your home looking and feeling brand new in no time:

Touch Up Walls

As time goes on, walls can show signs of wear, from small dents to nail holes. Restore them to their former glory by patching holes and imperfections with DAP DryDex® Nail Hole Filler, now available in a convenient 1-fluid-ounce tube as part of the DAP On-The-Go line. This spackling goes on pink and dries white, indicating when it’s ready to be sanded and painted. Finish with a fresh coat of paint for a crisp, clean look.

Man using Dry Dex Spackling on a wall

Re-Caulk Windows & Doors

Temperature changes and seasonal shifts can cause caulk to crack or shrink, leading to energy loss. Improve insulation and boost energy efficiency by sealing gaps and cracks around windows and doors with DAP ALEX Plus® All-Purpose Caulk. Available in a 2.8-fluid-ounce “On-The-Go” size, this high-quality, flexible caulk is perfect for all your touch-ups around the house and ensures a tight seal to keep your home comfortable and energy costs down.

Person using Alex plus calking to seal interior windows

Refresh Your Outdoor Space

Take some time to spruce up your outdoor areas. Sweep patios and decks, power-wash walkways and clean outdoor furniture to create a welcoming space for relaxing and entertaining. Consider adding potted plants or updating outdoor décor for a fresh, inviting look.

Man power washing his patio

Fix Broken Items

Summer is the perfect time to fix those little things around the house that you’ve been putting off. Use DAP RapidFuse® Flex Gel Super Glue to quickly and securely repair tears on outdoor umbrellas or patio cushions, broken shoe soles, backpack straps, or ripped leather on furniture. With its fast-setting and durable bond, you can extend the life of your favorite household items in just minutes.

Person using rapid fuse gel for fix a shoe

Upgrade Cabinet Hardware

Refresh your kitchen or bathroom cabinets by swapping out old knobs and pulls for modern hardware. This quick and affordable update instantly enhances the look of your cabinetry, giving your space a stylish, upgraded feel.

Person fixing a handle on a drawer

With these simple yet effective projects, you can rejuvenate your home and enjoy the rest of summer. For more home improvement tips and products, visit dap.com.

Start the school year strong: Get ahead on preventive care

2025-08-22T08:01:00

(BPT) – With back-to-school season in full swing, it’s the perfect time to focus on your children’s health. Appointments for check-ups, immunizations and sports physicals can fill up quickly this time of year, but scheduling now can help you stay ahead of the classroom illnesses and avoid last-minute scrambles down the road.

Prioritizing prevention

It’s easy to let preventive care slide when life gets busy. But taking care of your child’s health now can mean fewer worries later. You’ll reduce their chance of missing out on activities, and most importantly, help ensure your child is protected against preventable illness.

Vaccines are one of the most effective ways to help protect your children from serious diseases like measles, meningitis, whooping cough and other diseases that can disrupt daily life and, in some cases, even cause long-term harm.

Following the CDC’s recommended vaccination schedule can help protect your child against infectious diseases through all stages of growth, from early childhood through the teenage years.

Talk to your doctor

If you’re unsure where to start, reach out to your family doctor, pediatrician or a local pharmacist. Talking with a trusted healthcare provider can help you understand which vaccines are recommended, when kids should receive them and answer any questions you may have. You and your family should feel comfortable and supported when asking questions and exploring options.

“Staying on track with vaccines and other preventive care can help avoid unexpected absences from school due to illness, which is something every busy family can appreciate,” said Dr. Luis Romano, MD, Pediatrician and Senior Medical Director, GSK. “That’s why it’s so important to get ahead of it by talking to your doctor or trusted healthcare provider and getting the information you need to make the best care decision for your family.”

From homework to sports and extracurriculars, healthy kids are better prepared to thrive both in and out of class. Don’t let preventative care fall to the bottom of the to-do list this back-to-school season.

The game-changing hand tools every auto tech should have in their toolbox

2025-08-20T10:29:00

(BPT) – In the world of automotive repair, speed, precision, and tool reliability isn’t just nice to have — it’s a non-negotiable. Whether you’re a pro in a fast-paced shop or an enthusiast working in your home garage, the right tool can mean the difference between a simple task and a time-consuming struggle.

toolant — a brand that values feedback from mechanics, detailers, and technicians — has just released two tools engineered specifically for high-performance automotive environments: the toolant 10-inch Plier Wrench and the 3/8″ Drive Compact Flex Head Ratchet Wrench. These aren’t just upgrades — they’re problem-solvers.

A smarter alternative to the adjustable wrench

If you’re still fumbling with bulky adjustable wrenches for fittings, clamps, or flare nuts, toolant’s Plier Wrench is the ultimate upgrade. Designed with a fast push-button adjustment mechanism and 2-inch (52 mm) jaw capacity, it locks onto fasteners with speed and precision — no slipping, no rounding, no repositioning.

With smooth, parallel jaws and a CR-V steel build, the Plier Wrench gives a firm, damage-free grip on delicate surfaces like polished fittings or anodized parts. The 10:1 leverage ratio means less hand strain during repetitive tasks like tightening hose clamps or fitting brake lines. Whether you’re under the hood or under the car, this tool replaces multiple wrenches and saves time with each turn.

Plier wrench being used to fix a shower head.

Big power in tight spaces

The toolant Compact Drive Flex Head Ratchet Wrench was built to reach the most difficult spaces — and it delivers. Featuring one of the smallest heads in its class (3/8″ drive packed into a 1/4″ body), it’s perfect for working in the smallest of spaces.

A 90-tooth gear system gives you a tight 4-degree swing arc, ideal for restricted spaces. The 11-position locking flex head lets you lock in the perfect angle for the job, and the long ergonomic handle gives you the leverage you need without compromising access.

Man using flex head rachet wrench on Engine

Engineered to outlast the job

Durability is built in with a lifetime guarantee — making tools you can count on for the long haul. The ratchet wrench exceeds ASME (American industry standards) torque standards by 1.5x and is tested to withstand over 75,000 cycles — more than enough for the day-in, day-out demands of a working technician.

Made with mechanics in mind

toolant designs tools based on feedback from pros in the field, and it shows. The Plier Wrench and Flex Head Ratchet join a lineup of trusted gear built for real-world functionality.

Where to buy

Both tools are available now on Amazon:

Whether you’re working on the job or building your dream car, these tools are built to help you get it done — faster and smarter.

To learn more, visit toolant’s product lineup on Amazon.

5 Ways to ‘Level Up’ Your Finances This School Year

2025-08-20T14:03:00

(BPT) – By Mary Hines Droesch, Head of Consumer, Small Business & Wealth Management Banking and Lending Products at Bank of America

The new academic year is here, and for many students and recent graduates, it’s not just about textbooks and new routines — it’s also a crash course in personal finance. From managing tuition and living expenses to navigating first paychecks and credit decisions, the learning curve can be steep. In fact, new data from Bank of America found 88% of Americans wish they’d learned some aspect of financial literacy in school, whether it’s how to budget and save or how to manage debt.

The back-to-school season isn’t just about hitting the books; it’s also a prime opportunity to master your money. Whether you’re returning to campus or embarking on your post-graduation journey, here are five tips to help you build smart financial habits that will set you up for a brighter financial future:

1. Build your emergency fund

Get ahead of life’s unexpected expenses — from medical emergencies to car repairs — by setting aside a portion of each paycheck as dedicated emergency savings. Even small, consistent contributions from a part-time job, internship or even gift money can make a huge difference over time. Aim to build up to at least three months’ worth of living expenses. An emergency fund provides a crucial safety net, preventing you from going into debt when life throws a curveball.

2. Create a realistic budget that evolves with you

Whether you’re just stepping into the workforce or juggling a part-time job or internship, a realistic budget that evolves with you is essential to make the most of the money you earn. More than two in five students (41%) say they expect to have increased financial responsibilities and a tighter budget post-college, making it even more important to plan ahead.

A budget gives you control over your money, reduces financial stress, and lays the foundation for a secure financial future. Start by tracking your income and expenses and be honest about your spending habits. Then, look for areas where you can cut back — maybe it’s dining out less, finding student discounts, or opting for free entertainment. The goal isn’t to deprive yourself, but to create a budget that works for your lifestyle and can easily adapt to your changing needs and goals.

3. Take advantage of automatic savings and digital tools

Automatic savings tools can be a seamless way to build up your savings without even thinking about it. One option is to “pay yourself first” by automatically transferring a portion of every paycheck directly to your savings before you spend on anything else. You can also take advantage of solutions like the Bank of America Keep the Change® program, which rounds up the price of every debit card purchase to the next dollar and automatically adds it to your savings account. Watching your balance grow can keep you motivated and on track toward your financial goals.

Pair these with digital tools that help you see where your money is going and stick to your budget. For example, Bank of America’s mobile app offers Life Plan, a personalized digital experience that helps you set and track near- and long-term goals based on your priorities, along with step-by-step guidance and educational advice to keep you moving forward.

4. Understand the responsibility and benefits of building credit

Building credit is an important step for milestones like renting an apartment or buying your first car. When used responsibly, a credit card can help you build your credit history. Start with a student credit card and only make purchases you can pay off in full every month. Since your payment history makes up the largest part of your credit score, it’s important to pay your bills on time and in full every month.

5. Integrate financial planning into your routine

With academic demands and social lives, adding “financial planning” to your to-do list might seem overwhelming. The trick is to integrate it seamlessly. Set aside 15-30 minutes once a week to review your budget, check your balances and track your progress. The more you make it a regular, low-effort habit, the less stressful it becomes, and the more confident you’ll feel about your financial future.

Embracing these smart financial habits will empower you to manage your money confidently and help you build a strong foundation for long-term financial success. Your future self will thank you.

Beyond Weight Loss: Firm Your Skin and Boost Your Confidence

2025-08-20T09:01:00

(BPT) – Weight-loss journeys powered by GLP-1 medications like Ozempic®, Wegovy®, and Mounjaro® have helped many to achieve significant changes. Yet, a new challenge has emerged: loose, sagging skin. Despite achieving significant weight loss, many individuals find their skin unable to keep pace, leading to unexpected frustration.

Loose Skin: The Hidden Challenge of Rapid Weight Loss

Rapid fat loss can leave your skin stretched and sagging — particularly in areas like the stomach, arms, and thighs. This is especially true for those who have carried excess weight for a long period, or individuals over the age of 30, when natural collagen and elastin production begins to decline. Achieving a slimmer body is a remarkable success, but often, achieving toned, tight skin requires additional support.

endermologie®: A Clinically Proven Skin-Firming Solution

endermologie® is a 100% natural, non-invasive treatment backed by 40 years of cellular science. With LPG®‘s state-of-the-art Cellu M6 Infinity® device, your skin can visibly regain firmness, smoothness, and contour without pain or downtime.

We recommend endermologie® as an excellent complement to GLP-1 treatments. While these medications are effective at helping reduce weight, they don’t act on skin quality. Endermologie® fills that gap — naturally supporting the skin to firm, smooth, and regain tone, especially in key areas like the arms, stomach, and thighs. The Institute of Endocrinology (IEDHH) offers a proven program combining weight-loss solutions with LPG endermologie® to help clients look and feel their absolute best.

Dr. Sherief M. Kamel MD FACE ECNU

Institute of Endocrinology – Panama City, Florida

A Perfect Complement to GLP-1 Medications

While GLP-1 medications successfully target weight loss, they don’t enhance skin quality. Endermologie® fills that important gap, naturally supporting and revitalizing your skin by reactivating dormant fibroblasts — the cells responsible for producing collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid, essential for youthful skin.

Impressive, Proven Results:

+92% improvement in skin firmness* -2.28 inches in waistline circumference*** +93% cellulite smoothed* -50% heavy legs**

Your Skin’s Journey to Firmness and Confidence

Each relaxing endermologie® session lasts just 35 minutes, feeling akin to a soothing deep tissue massage. Notice visible improvements after only a few sessions, with optimal outcomes typically seen after 10–12 visits.

Whether you’re starting your weight-loss journey or you’ve already achieved your goals, endermologie® helps ensure your skin matches your hard-earned new physique. Feel firm, toned, and confident at every stage of your transformation.

To learn more about endermologie® and find an LPG® provider, visit lpg-group.com/en.

Follow us on:

· Instagram – @lpgendermologie_america

· Facebook – LPG endermologie

· LinkedIn – LPG® America

· YouTube – LPG endermologie America

* Hausswirth C. et al. study report Institut BeScored 2024. Evaluation of the slimming, redensifying, smoothing and draining effect of the new Cellu M6® device: As of 12 sessions, 93% of women reported a smoothed orange-peel aspect and 92% reported an improvement in their skin’s firmness.

** 2024 BeScored study: Sensation of heavy legs reduced by 50% after the first session.

*** 2024 BeScored study: Waistline circumference reduction up to 2.28 inches (5.8 cm).

New study: Common misconception doubles crash risk

2025-08-19T12:17:00

(BPT) – A two-second glance away from the road doubles your crash risk, yet a new study from State Farm® shows that over 65% of drivers believe it’s safe to look away from the road for two seconds or longer. Even more concerning is the fact that reading or sending a quick text takes double that time, at an average of more than 4 seconds. How common are these seconds-long glances away from the road? The study found that 80% of drivers admit to engaging in at least one distracting behavior while driving.

In a recent study of over 1,300 survey participants aged 22-40, State Farm captured drivers’ attitudes and behaviors, revealing that nearly half (45%) have experienced a crash or near-miss while engaging in distracting activities behind the wheel.

The hidden danger of “quick” distractions

When reading or sending a text message while driving — which takes an average of 4.6 seconds — drivers travel the equivalent of a football field at 55 miles per hour with their eyes off the road.

“Many drivers underestimate the risk associated with even brief distractions,” said Brianne Jones, vice president of Operations, P&C Claims, State Farm. “These findings highlight a critical safety issue for every driver, passenger and pedestrian on and or adjacent to our roadways. Our goal is to raise awareness and encourage focused driving practices to lower accidents and create safer roads.”

Most common distracting behaviors

The most common distractions include:

  • Navigation and communication: 45% admitted to manually entering location data while driving
  • Music management: 44% scroll through playlists or manually search for music while driving
  • Texting: 39% read or send text messages while driving
  • Phone calls: 34% manually dial cell phones
  • App interaction: 28% interact with phone apps while driving
  • Email: 21% read or send emails while driving

Stress as a distraction trigger

The survey also identified specific triggers that increase distracted driving behavior. Feeling stressed or busy was linked to overall distraction behind the wheel. When drivers have items on their “to-do” list, 27% become more distracted. Additionally, 17% report that being upset or stressed leads to more dangerous behind-the-wheel behaviors.

Taking action during National Traffic Safety Awareness Month

August marks National Traffic Safety Awareness Month, making this an opportune time for drivers to reassess their habits. State Farm encourages motorists to:

  • Put phones in “Do Not Disturb” mode while driving
  • Set up navigation and music before starting the vehicle
  • Pull over safely if urgent communication is necessary
  • Recognize personal stress triggers that lead to distracted behaviors
Distracted Driving infographic that talks about what most drivers don't realize

State Farm also offers an opportunity for customers to save money with good driving through their Drive Safe & Save® program, with auto insurance discounts up to 30%*. State Farm customers are also eligible for a range of other Auto Insurance Discounts that can reward safe drivers and their families.

How to lighten the back-to-school burden

2025-08-19T11:35:01

(BPT) – Your child’s backpack shouldn’t feel like a punishment. Yet for countless students across America, that daily trudge to school has become a literal pain in the back — and neck, and shoulders. What starts as minor discomfort can quickly escalate into serious musculoskeletal problems that interfere with learning, sports, and daily activities.

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons is stepping in with guidance to help parents and caregivers transform their child’s backpack from a source of pain into a tool that supports healthy posture and bone and joint development.

“Families everywhere take backpacks for granted as everyday gear needed for school, but they don’t often understand the burden they can place on the body and posture when they’re used incorrectly,” said pediatric orthopaedic surgeon Reid Boyce Nichols, MD, FAAOS. “A few simple steps can give you confidence that your child will be able to get through their school day without the pain or discomfort that incorrect use can cause.”

Here are tips to guide you and your kids when shopping for and using backpacks.

Shop with comfort in mind

The best-designed backpacks are effective at distributing weight so the body’s strongest muscles can carry it safely, without undue stress or strain. While kids may be focused on backpack colors and styles when shopping, parents and caregivers should consider:

  • Size: Is the backpack’s size appropriate for your child? If it looks too big, see if you can find a smaller one. Does it feel light when you pick it up?
  • Support: Well-designed backpacks should have two wide, padded shoulder straps and a padded back.
  • Extra features for heavy loads: This includes a waist strap, as well as wheels — a rolling backpack can make it much easier to handle heavy loads when needed.

Practice injury prevention

Whether it’s your child’s first year of school or their last, it’s never too late to start using best practices for health and safety.

“Teens and older students often resist advice about ‘how to wear a backpack,’ but the reality is they’re dealing with heavier course loads and fewer places to store supplies throughout the day,” said Dr. Nichols. “Once they understand that a few adjustments can prevent the nagging pain that interferes with everything from sitting in class to playing sports, most are willing to make the changes.” To help prevent injury, recommend and demonstrate the following practices:

  • Use both shoulder straps whenever you’re carrying a backpack, rather than carrying it on one shoulder.
  • Tighten the straps to keep the backpack’s load closer to the back.
  • Organize items strategically with heavier items low and toward the center of the backpack.
  • Pack light, removing items if they’re too heavy. Carry items only required for each day, and —
    • Leave unnecessary books at home or school
    • Choose a smaller water bottle
    • Bring sports gear in a separate bag that can be stored in a locker
  • Lift properly by bending at the knees when picking up a backpack.

Especially if a child has had previous discomfort using a backpack, consider using a cross-body bag as an alternative for carrying books and supplies.

Be proactive to prevent injury

When you’re getting ready for back-to-school season, watch your child put on and take off their fully loaded backpack to see if it’s a struggle. If the backpack seems too heavy, see if your child can remove any books and carry them in their arms to ease the load. Work with them to review the distribution of weight in their backpack, placing heavier items low and toward the center of the backpack. Beyond choosing a different backpack and practicing how to pack and wear it correctly, it may also be possible for your child to stop at their locker as time permits throughout the day to drop off or exchange heavier books.

Finally, make sure to pay attention to any signs of back pain in your child or teenager.

“Encourage your child or teen to tell you about back, neck, or shoulder pain they may be feeling during or after carrying their backpack,” added Dr. Nichols. “The presence of symptoms may indicate a poor backpack fit, or too much weight being carried.”

Learn more about backpack safety and back pain in children at OrthoInfo.org.

Embracing Organic Architecture to Create a More Beautiful Kitchen

2025-08-18T14:31:00

(BPT) – Today, kitchens that incorporate design elements from famed architects go far beyond the latest trends. They draw on key principles of balance, proportion and integrity to create spaces that feel luxurious and enduring. Every detail, from faucet finishes to cabinet silhouettes, plays an important role in shaping the overall space. Homeowners are seeking a mix of beauty and function, turning to the outdoors for inspiration.

Designing with structure in mind

Designers are inspired by architectural philosophies, coupled with cues from nature to create visually unique spaces. Geometric shapes and strategic focal points shape the kitchen’s experience, directing flow and rhythm. The Frank Lloyd Wright® Kitchen Collection by Brizo®, embodies these principles with its rounded and squared arch spouts, asymmetrical designs and clean lines, coupled with a wide choice of natural materials. Wood, glass, black onyx and concrete effortlessly combine to create a statement look.

Embracing unique materials

Emphasizing organic architecture demands quality materials to create cohesive, inviting kitchens that blend indoor and outdoor elegance. These elements serve not only as structural features, but as sources of inspiration that inform design choices around flooring, appliances and fixtures. By introducing expressive, tactile materials, designers are creating unexpected yet harmonious combinations, allowing the materials themselves to act as design features, rather than relying solely on added décor.

Taking the lead from architectural pioneers

Visionaries like Frank Lloyd Wright drew influence from nature, infusing design with simplicity, individuality and integrity. Today’s kitchens can echo this sentiment through the incorporation of finishes and accents in earth tones, warm golds, deep charcoals and soft metallics, creating warmth and authenticity. As kitchen design evolves, spaces designed with an eye for architecture provide a cohesive vision, narrating a story through shape, form and material.

These new spaces transcend mere utility, merging purpose with art and using layout, materials and natural palettes to define their essence. This is not just a passing trend; it’s a cultural shift reshaping kitchen and home design for the future.