2025-09-08T08:01:00
(BPT) – Hereditary angioedema (HAE) is a rare, inherited disease characterized by repeated painful and unpredictable episodes (or attacks) of severe swelling in various parts of the body. Swelling attacks may first begin to occur during childhood, and it is important to understand the unique needs of children living with HAE. For more information, visit www.HAEA.org.
2025-09-08T09:03:00
(BPT) – Back-to-school is a season of checklists, from supplies and schedules to sports signups and lunchbox prep. But amid the flurry of getting your child back into the classroom routine, certain common health issues can be easy to overlook.
That’s because the start of the school year brings a perfect storm of stress, germs and hectic schedules. In the midst of it all, some everyday aches and pains can sneak by undetected until they turn into something much more serious.
“Parents and kids are juggling a lot this time of year,” says Dr. Vontrelle Roundtree, Associate Chief Medical Officer at MD Live by Evernorth. “It’s easy to chalk up certain symptoms to stress or adjusting to new routines, but some can be early warning signs of something that needs medical attention.”
Here are five common health issues that doctors say could easily fly under the radar during the back-to-school rush, and how a virtual care visit can help you stay one step ahead.
1. Tummy troubles that won’t quit
Nervous stomach? Maybe. But if tummy troubles like cramping, diarrhea or nausea linger, it could be more than nerves about the new school year. “These gastrointestinal symptoms could point to newfound food sensitivities or allergies, foodborne illnesses, parasites picked up during summer travel or camp, and even anxiety,” says Roundtree. “It’s easy for these to be mistaken for nerves or a sensitive stomach, but if the child’s symptoms are interfering with their daily activities, it’s important to see a doctor to rule out any of those issues.”
2. Fatigue that feels excessive
Back-to-school routines are tiring, especially for younger kids. But excessive fatigue, especially when paired with pale skin, irritability or trouble focusing, can point to an underlying issue like anemia, often caused by an iron deficiency, which is common in school-aged children and teens. This symptom can be easily misinterpreted as the stress of adjusting to early mornings. However, when fatigue is combined with physical or behavioral changes, it is worth exploring further.
3. Headaches that hit at school
If your child is suddenly complaining of headaches more frequently, especially after a long day in front of computer screens or taking notes from the whiteboard, they may be dealing with eye strain, vision issues or even stress-related tension. “These symptoms often show up once kids are back in structured, indoor environments,” Roundtree notes. “It’s absolutely worth bringing up during a doctor’s visit, especially if you find they’re interfering with your child’s concentration or sleep habits.”
4. Frequent bathroom breaks or bedwetting in older kids
If your child suddenly takes more bathroom breaks during the day or has started wetting the bed again, it could be a sign of a urinary tract infection (UTI) or other underlying condition. While these symptoms might indicate something physical, they can also stem from behavioral or emotional factors. Either way, it’s worth discussing with your child’s doctor.
5. Mood swings that keep swinging
Back-to-school jitters are normal. However, unusual mood swings, outbursts, increased irritability or withdrawal may signal something deeper, such as anxiety, sleep disruptions or even a physical issue like undiagnosed strep, which can sometimes cause neurological symptoms in kids.
“Emotional and physical health are connected,” Roundtree explains. “Changes in mood and behavior may be early signs that something deeper is going on.”
Don’t wait for the school nurse to call
Many of the most common back-to-school health issues can be assessed and addressed virtually from the comfort of your home.
“With MD Live, parents can access board-certified pediatricians quickly, whether they need fast answers, peace of mind or trusted guidance on next steps,” says Roundtree. “Virtual visits are a powerful tool for staying proactive during a hectic school year.”
This year, add health to your back-to-school checklist. If something feels off, trust your instincts and give your family a healthier start to the school year.
2025-09-07T23:01:00
(BPT) – When a teenager starts losing their hair, the world often rushes to offer reassurances: “It’s just hair.” But for the nearly 7 million people in the U.S. living with alopecia areata, many of whom are adolescents, that phrase couldn’t be further from the truth and actually can cause unintended harm.
The truth is: Alopecia areata is not a cosmetic concern. It’s a chronic, unpredictable autoimmune disease that causes the immune system to mistakenly attack hair follicles, resulting in partial or complete hair loss on the scalp, face or body. While it may seem like a surface-level issue, its impact runs far deeper. It can affect mental health, social well-being and access to care in ways that too often go unseen, especially for young people.
“Getting treatment changed everything — not just my hair regrowth, but myself,” says Sarah Greene, 16, who was diagnosed at 8 years old despite showing symptoms since the age of 2. Sarah is now on an FDA-approved treatment for patients that helped regrow their hair and restore confidence.
A serious autoimmune disease, misunderstood
Alopecia areata can appear suddenly, at any age, and progress unpredictably. One day, it might be a coin-sized bald spot on the scalp; the next, it could mean total hair loss across the entire body. Some cases go into remission, others recur and some progress to more severe forms like alopecia totalis or alopecia universalis. The severity and emotional toll vary, but one thing remains constant: It is not simply cosmetic.
Still, unlike other autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, alopecia areata is frequently miscategorized as a superficial or aesthetic issue. This mis-categorization isn’t just frustrating. It can be devastating.
When ‘cosmetic’ becomes a barrier to care
Many insurance companies still classify alopecia areata as a cosmetic condition. As a result, even when FDA-approved treatments are available, patients, especially adolescents, face unnecessary roadblocks to the treatment they need: denial of coverage or administrative hoops to “prove medical necessity” while creating wasteful healthcare spending.
Parents often find themselves in lengthy battles with insurers or face challenging decisions, while their children experience worsening symptoms, bullying and declining self-esteem.
Alopecia doesn’t just steal hair. For students, it can mean unwanted attention, questions they’re not ready to answer, and feeling different at a time when they just want to belong. Too often, the right treatment is just out of reach.
Access and equity: Not everyone gets the same chance
For some communities, the barriers are even steeper. Black and brown adolescents often experience longer delays in diagnosis and face systemic inequities in care. In rural areas or under-resourced schools, there may be few dermatologists, little awareness and no peer support. These disparities mean that access to care is not just about medicine; it’s about justice.
Newer therapies, like JAK inhibitors, are often made harder to access for families due to the misclassification of the disease. This deepens health inequities and limits opportunities for those who need help most.
More than hair: Why holistic support matters
Treating alopecia areata effectively means more than writing a prescription. It requires a whole-person approach that addresses the mental, emotional and social effects of the disease. An approach that many insurers are starting to embrace in theory, but in practice, still have more work to do.
Teens living with alopecia often report feeling withdrawn from sports or social activities, avoid photos or endure bullying at school. That’s why effective insurance policies that break down barriers to treatment, along with support groups, school accommodations, peer mentorship and mental health care, are critical parts of the care journey.
Organizations like the National Alopecia Areata Foundation (NAAF) offer essential resources for young people and their families, connecting them with community, educational tools and advocacy efforts that can help them reclaim control over their health and their story.
It’s not just hair — It’s so much more
It’s time to reclaim the truth about alopecia areata and rewrite the narrative. Alopecia areata is a legitimate medical condition that deserves serious attention, adequate insurance coverage and respect. Children living with this disease should not be left behind simply because their symptoms are misunderstood.
What can you do?
For adolescents living with alopecia areata, it’s never just hair. It’s everything that comes with losing it, and everything they deserve in getting it back.
2025-09-06T07:01:00
(BPT) – The IRC and Chase Disaster Relief Fund ensures essential resources reach restaurants in hardest-hit communities, giving owners a chance to serve again.
Resilience isn’t just a business strategy; it’s a way of life for independent restaurant and bar owners across the country. The past 12 months have been marred by natural disasters, during which the restaurant industry has opened their doors to first responders, provided food to those in need and supported other businesses in their communities.
But who comes to the rescue when these same businesses are the ones in crisis? Independent restaurants and bars are hugely important to local communities, and they’re significant drivers of the U.S. economy. They account for nearly 70% of the restaurant industry, but these businesses, especially those in disaster-prone regions, need access to solutions that can help them manage costs and stay afloat.
According to a recent study from the Independent Restaurant Coalition (IRC) and Chase, more than three in five (60%) independent restaurants in disaster-prone regions have suffered direct financial loss in the past 12 months. Worse, the recent string of hurricanes, wildfires and floods have left kitchens shuttered and businesses on the brink, as the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) estimates that 40% of small businesses never reopen after a natural disaster. The National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI) reports that disaster-related closures caused more than $1 billion in lost revenue in 2024.
Still, hope is not lost for these entrepreneurs: The new IRC and Chase Disaster Relief Fund is accepting applications from Sept. 3-Oct. 3, making it possible for restaurants nationwide to access support as they work to recover.
“Restaurants are often among the first in their communities to lend a hand. Thanks to Chase, we can finally do something to help businesses who have sacrificed so much for their neighbors,” said Bobby Stuckey, partner and master sommelier of Frasca Hospitality Group and IRC co-founder. “Independent restaurants support first responders, feed the hungry and support other businesses in the communities they serve. Chase understands that, which is why we are proud to collaborate with them on programming that advances the work of these vital businesses and helps educate the public on their importance.”
The IRC and Chase Disaster Relief Fund provides independent restaurants and bar owners with essential financial relief so they can address immediate needs to stay in business. Restaurants interested in applying must complete an eligibility screener to confirm they meet basic requirements, including being independently owned, operating fewer than 20 locations nationwide and having sustained direct disaster-related damage within the past 12 months.
The urgent need for relief in hard-hit communities
The stakes for independent restaurants and bars remain higher than ever, especially in disaster-prone regions like Southern California, the Southeast and Midwest. In cities such as Los Angeles, New Orleans, Tampa and Kansas City, the effects of severe weather are felt not just in physical damage, but in the emotional and economic toll on business owners, their teams and the communities that depend on them.
The Southern California wildfires earlier this year destroyed dozens of restaurants. One month after the fires, businesses in Malibu that reopened were losing 50% to 85% of their revenue due to fire damage and road closures. A single tornado earlier this year in Iowa inflicted $12.2 million in damages and decimated 90% of a local business district. North Carolina is still recovering from historic flooding last year, with costs exceeding insurance coverage for many small establishments.
Many of these restaurants operate with slim margins and limited safety nets. They often lack the reserves to withstand even a week’s closure, making every disruption a potential existential threat. Yet, it is precisely because of these challenges that the commitment from the Independent Restaurant Coalition and Chase stands out.
“Independent restaurants anchor neighborhoods, support local famers and employ more people per square foot than any other brick and mortar industry,” said Cheetie Kumar, chef/owner of Ajja, Raleigh, North Carolina, and IRC Board vice president. “When natural disasters devastate a community, government funds are scarce, and standard insurance policies don’t cover floods or loss of business due to citywide utility interruptions. This can be an extinction event for small businesses that operate on razor-thin margins. The $3 million Disaster Relief Fund creates a lifeline that gets money in the hands of restaurants quickly in a time of desperate need.”
Since its founding in March 2020, the IRC has championed the needs of local restaurant owners and workers when they need it most. They have been at the forefront of advocating for independent restaurants and bars in moments of crisis, whether navigating the challenges of the pandemic, mobilizing after regional disasters or providing resources and a unified voice for operators nationwide.
“Independent restaurants are the heart and soul of our communities and their teams are on the front lines when disaster strikes,” said Erika Polmar, executive director of the IRC. “The IRC and Chase Disaster Relief Fund is about equipping these businesses with the tools and support they need to persevere, rebuild and continue serving their neighborhoods.”
Standing together to keep restaurants and communities thriving
The launch of the fund is timely because, as natural disasters continue to grow in frequency and severity, so too does the need for targeted relief. Losses from disaster-related closures impact not only owners and employees, but also the supply chains, farmers and local businesses that rely on a thriving restaurant industry.
Applications for the IRC and Chase Disaster Relief Fund are open now and close Oct. 3. Restaurant owners are encouraged to apply if they have experienced disaster-related damage in the past year. The hope is that by providing timely, targeted support, more independent restaurants will be able to continue their traditions of service, creativity and community connection — even in the face of adversity.
“Independent restaurants bring people together, drive local economies and give neighborhoods their unique character,” said Chris Stang, head of Lifestyle and Dining at Chase. “We’re proud to work with the IRC to make an investment in the future of this industry and help ensure small businesses have the resources they need to grow while continuing to serve their communities.”
For more information about eligibility and how to apply, visit www.independentrestaurantcoalition.com/DRF.
2025-09-05T20:33:00
(BPT) – As home prices continue to rise, many homeowners are choosing to stay and put their time and money into renovating their existing homes. According to a survey by This Old House, 48% of homeowners have renovation plans for 2025. Of those planning to renovate, two groups stand out: millennials and baby boomers.
Two generations with different priorities
When broken down by generation, millennials are leading the home renovation trends. In fact, the survey found that of those homeowners planning to renovate, millennials made up 60% of the group.
Millennial home renovations are largely focused on making their current home match their lifestyle with projects that boost home enjoyment, style and quality of life.
While boomers are less likely to pursue home renovations, their requests for age-in-place (AIP) renovations are on the rise. According to an article by the National Association of Home Builders, 75% of industry leaders say that requests for AIP features have significantly or somewhat increased in the last five years. Also, 56% of remodelers are currently involved in home modification work relating to AIP.
Renovations all generations agree are important
Regardless of age, This Old House found that the most common spaces homeowners plan to improve are bathrooms (53%) and kitchens (51%), two high-traffic areas. Because these areas see the most use, bathroom and kitchen renovations can improve homeowners’ daily comfort and boost a home’s value.
Another feature that younger and older generations are prioritizing is utility upgrades. America’s housing stock is aging — with the median age of owner-occupied homes sitting at 41 years — and with it, major system replacements have become more common. For example, according to a Houzz report, nearly 30% of 2022 renovators replaced plumbing systems, often including installing new water heaters.
This isn’t surprising since conventional tank water heaters generally last about 6-12 years. That’s why many homes built in the mid-2000s are now due for replacement of their original systems.
How tankless water heaters make bathroom and kitchen renovations simpler
Given that bathroom and kitchen renovations are top projects for younger and older homeowners, replacing a water heater is essential. While homeowners could replace their old conventional water heater with a similar yet newer model, a more energy-efficient option is a tankless water heater.
As the name suggests, tankless water heaters don’t require a storage tank that must be continuously heated. Instead, tankless water heaters like Noritz EZ Series Pro models flash-heat water on demand.
With a tankless water heater, homeowners will never run out of hot water, and they can save on utility costs. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, for homes that use 41 gallons or less of hot water daily, on-demand water heaters can be 24%–34% more energy efficient than conventional storage tank water heaters. For homeowners who want to save money, run a more eco-friendly house or both, a tankless water heater can help them achieve this critical home upgrade.
There are other home renovation benefits that tankless water heaters offer. They take up less space than a tank water heater — leaving more room for other renovations — are easy to install and have a longer life expectancy. Compared to storage water heaters that last 10-15 years, tankless water heaters can last more than 20 years. Because of their modular design and easily replaceable parts, a tankless water heater can last even longer. To learn more about tankless water heaters, visit Noritz.com.
Hot water on demand without breaking the bank
One thing homeowners should keep in mind when considering a tankless water heater is the cost. Installing a tankless water heater is a long-term investment that can net homeowners savings, but it’s also a pricy upfront cost. That said, some programs can make this home upgrade more affordable.
“Many homeowners don’t know that there are local, state and federal agencies that offer rebates and tax credits for energy-efficient upgrades,” said Emily Logan, Director, Utility Data and Programs at EcoRebates. “By taking advantage of these programs, homeowners can save on their water heater upgrade, leaving more money for other home renovations.”
That said, it’s important to look into rebates and tax credits now. Some federal energy tax incentives, like the Section 25D Residential Clean Energy Credit and Section 25C Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit, will be phased out after June 30, 2026. If you’re a homeowner who is considering upgrading your bathroom and kitchen with a tankless water heater, visit Noritz.com/rebates to find applicable savings programs.
2025-09-05T08:01:00
(BPT) – Medicare comes with important decisions — and areas that often need explanation. For instance, many people think Medicare is free or that it covers everything, including long-term care and routine dental or vision — but that’s not the case. Enrollment isn’t automatic for everyone, and missing your Initial Enrollment Period could lead to penalties unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period. Understanding what Medicare actually covers — and when and how to enroll — can help you avoid surprises and choose the right plan for your needs.
2025-09-04T10:31:00
(BPT) – Sept. 11, 2001, left a huge mark on the U.S. and changed the life trajectories of many people, including Army National Guard veteran Antoinette Wallace. Before 9/11, she had never considered joining the military. Antoinette was applying to colleges, narrowing her options and considering a legal career. That all changed.
“I was in high school when 9/11 happened,” Antoinette said. “I was a senior at Curtis High School in Staten Island, so I witnessed everything that morning. I saw the first plane hit and thought it was an accident, but when I saw the second plane hit, I wondered what was going on. Then I watched the towers collapse. This all gave me the resolve to join the military.”
While only in eighth grade on Sept. 11, Gabriel Vasquez was already moved to respond.
“I saw smoke coming from the towers from my classroom,” said Gabriel. “In the coming months, New York City was the most patriotic I had ever seen, with flags everywhere. I knew I had to do something to serve my nation.”
From service members to civilians
About 4 million men and women served on active-duty in the first 10 years following 9/11. Like many, Antoinette and Gabriel enjoyed the natural camaraderie they built with other service members.
Recapturing that sense of belonging and friendship, on top of managing physical and mental health challenges, made transitioning back to civilian lives difficult.
“You’ve been completely changed, and you will never be the same again,” Antoinette said. “I wanted things to return to ‘normal’ and be a typical early 20-something with a social life. But trying to connect with new people, especially civilians, is tough.”
When Gabriel left the military after the birth of his son, he also missed the built-in social life and found making authentic connections difficult.
“When I left the Marines, I lost that brotherhood and camaraderie,” he said. “Finding it again felt impossible.”
Luckily, Antoinette and Gabriel found a place where they belonged and resources that made a return to civilian life more manageable through Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP).
Committed to veterans
WWP started in 2003 to provide comfort items to injured service members coming home from conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq. Since then, the nonprofit has evolved to provide programs and services that help post-9/11 veterans by bringing them together, helping them find the right civilian career and establishing programs to empower veterans to address their mental health so they can thrive for a lifetime.
“I was at the Veterans Affairs hospital when I heard about Wounded Warrior Project from fellow female veterans,” Antoinette said. “The organization really caught my attention, so I signed up. I wanted to connect with other veterans so much and Wounded Warrior Project made that possible. Everyone embraced me at my first event, and I felt so comfortable.”
During his time in college, Gabriel also heard about WWP through word of mouth, but initially didn’t know he could join.
“I didn’t know I was eligible because I thought you had to be severely disabled,” Gabriel said. “I have physical injuries, but I still have all my limbs.”
WWP serves veterans with visible and invisible wounds. Once he realized that, Gabriel joined WWP and found the camaraderie he had missed during his time as a Marine.
Beyond the opportunity for social connections with like-minded people, Antoinette and Gabriel found other avenues of support through WWP.
“The Physical Health and Wellness program has been very helpful for me,” said Gabriel. “Having access to dietary information and learning things like how to stretch and work out properly have made my life easier.”
Never alone
One thing that Antoinette and Gabriel have learned from their experiences with WWP is that they don’t have to walk their journey alone.
“There is help out there,” Antoinette said. “If you are a veteran or know one, there are organizations like Wounded Warrior Project that can help in your recovery. While you might doubt your eligibility, take the first step toward healing by reaching out.”
To learn more about how WWP services and programs can help you or veterans in your life, visit WoundedWarriorProject.org.
2025-09-04T07:01:00
(BPT) – National Tailgating Day is coming up! If you’re a frequent tailgate host — whether you gather outside of the stadium or in your living room — you probably have your own game day traditions, but it may be time to call an audible and change your strategy.
This football season, be open to new ideas that can take your tailgate to the next level. With just a few adjustments, you can make your football parties so memorable that your friends, family and fellow football fans will be begging you to host a tailgate for The Big Game later this season.
Not sure where to start? Check out these four tips to help you turn your tailgate into a championship-winning touchdown.
1. Double down on decorations
Show your team spirit with team-themed decorations! You can, of course, find official merch with your team name and logo, but don’t be afraid to get creative.
When shopping, look for tablecloths, cups, balloons and banners in your team’s primary and secondary colors. Head to your local craft store and find stickers, permanent markers and paint to turn these seemingly plain items into bespoke party decorations. Short on time? Print out themed signage, menus and rally banners, turn boxes into party displays or get creative with food spreads that mirror footballs, fields and jerseys — all the small details will help set the scene and get your guests in the zone.
2. Switch up your beverages
Beer and cocktails are traditional game day beverages, but they’re not the only drink options. This year, add boxed wine to your football shopping list. Wine may seem a bit formal for a sports gathering, but a box of wine is a game-changing addition to any fan or tailgater’s playbook.
Choose a high-quality boxed wine like Bota Box for your next game day. Its portable, durable and no-fuss packaging is shatterproof, doesn’t require a corkscrew and is recyclable, making it perfect for any gathering at home or in the stadium parking lot. For large gatherings, each 3-liter box offers the same amount of wine as four bottles and a pourable spout makes it easy for guests to serve themselves a glass. Heading to a stadium tailgate? Toss a few Bota Box “Minis” in the cooler to add variety. Each 500ml “Mini” carton holds the equivalent of three glasses of wine in a lightweight, recyclable sipper that’s just right for sharing with friends before kickoff.
3. Get everyone involved with football game predictions
It’s always fun to try and guess how the game will play out. Make prediction sheets for your guests. This activity can foster team spirit, encourage social connections and ramp up the fun before the game starts.
There isn’t one right way to make a prediction sheet. However, think about questions like who will score the first touchdown and what the final score will be. Don’t forget to have a prize for the winner, like football memorabilia!
Pro tip: If you’re strapped for time, you can even download prediction sheets online to use for your tailgate.
4. Serve up a selection of homemade wings
Switch up your usual burgers and hot dogs this tailgate season and try cheffin’ up wings at home. You can stick to one flavor or provide a selection of sauces for a customizable tailgate experience. Make sure to offer a mix of beverages to bring out the saucy, savory flavors of your wings and take the tasting experience to the next level.
Pro tip: Do you have a wing recipe you’re proud of? Consider entering the “Wing It with Bota” recipe contest for a chance to win an all-expenses-paid trip to the Bay Area for a recipe cook-off at Guy Fieri’s Flavortown Tailgate, and compete for the ultimate grand prize: two tickets to attend The Big Game. To learn more, visit BotaBox.com/Football.
Are you ready for kickoff?
Whether you’re watching in person or at home, make your next tailgate one to remember. With these four tips, you’ll be ready for game day, no matter if your team wins or loses.
Please drink responsibly. Learn more at responsibility.org.
2025-09-04T06:01:00
(BPT) – Waking up can be a whirlwind of activity, from making breakfast and packing lunches to getting everyone out the door on time. Luckily, finding a moment to prepare a delicious and healthy lunch for your kids without sacrificing precious sleep is easier than you think.
With a few simple strategies, you can transform lunch-packing from a last-minute chore into an easy routine. Here’s how to get ahead of the morning rush and start your day feeling calm, organized, and ready for anything.
1. Pick lunch themes for faster decisions
Boost your creativity and simplify meal prep by choosing a weekly theme like “Taco Tuesday,” “Breakfast for Lunch,” or “Italian Favorites.” Once you have a theme, it’s easier to choose ingredients, prep in batches, and avoid the morning “What should I pack?” scramble. Kids also love the fun twist, making them more likely to eat what you send.
2. Build your own lunch station, and let your kids pick their weekly lineup
During your weekly meal prep, slice and wash fruits and veggies, prep sandwiches, and portion snacks into easy grab-and-go servings. By getting the work done ahead of time, weekday mornings become a breeze — just hand your kids their lunchboxes and let them choose their favorites.
Store items in Hefty® Slider Bags to help them stay fresh. The easy-to-use slider is perfect for independent eaters to open and close on their own at school. Plus, the expandable bottom makes filling easier, and the secure Clicks Closed seal lets you know it’s shut tight.
3. Freeze drinks to keep food cool
Freeze a juice box or water bottle the night before to double as a lunchbox ice pack. By lunchtime, it will be perfectly chilled and ready to drink while keeping the rest of the meal fresh. You can also freeze foods like PB&J sandwiches, muffins, or yogurt tubes to help keep lunch cool and make meal prep even easier.
4. Lean into leftovers
Leftovers aren’t just for Friday night dinners. You can easily pack leftovers for lunch! For busy parents, leaning into leftovers can be a huge time saver and a simple way to ensure your child is eating a healthy, nutritious meal. Plus, you’ll save on food waste, helping you save money on your grocery bill.
As soon as dinner is over, pack your leftovers into Hefty Slider Bags, so you don’t have to worry about portioning food out later.
5. Fill up the freezer with frozen meals
During your weekly meal prep, consider making frozen meals for lunch (or even dinner). You can cook multiple dishes in bulk, like breakfast sandwiches, pizza bagels, and taco meat, then freeze them for quick, ready-to-go meals. You’ll have plenty of lunch options, and your kids can even choose which ones they’d like to eat the most.
Once you’re done cooking, store the meals in a large, resealable bag like Hefty’s Gallon sized Freezer Slider Bags. It clicks closed to help keep your food fresh and secure.
Pro tip: Keep some large slider bags on hand. These Hefty Jumbo Storage Slider Bags are perfect for anything life throws at you, from muddy jerseys and sparkly art projects to family-sized snack mixes.
Are you ready for an easier school year? Using these simple tips, you can save time, money and streamline your morning for a positive start to your day.
2025-09-04T07:01:00
(BPT) – Keith Bynum and Evan Thomas, cohosts of the HGTV series “Bargain Block,” are experts at transforming properties and boosting curb appeal. A home’s roof is a big part of the design duo’s roof transformations that pair curb appeal with powerful protection. Below are excerpts from a conversation with Keith and Evan about using color to make the most of a roof replacement.
What makes the roof such a good place to make a design statement?
(ET) Representing a large amount of a home’s exterior, the roof provides an ideal space for enhancing curb appeal. However, a roof also needs to be designed to stand up to the elements to help protect one of a consumer’s biggest investments — their home.
New shingles give homeowners lasting peace of mind. They know they’ve made a home improvement that will last for a long time.
(KB) But there is also curb appeal to think about. In many cases, a home’s roof is the single largest thing you see when you pull up to a house, so it can have a huge effect on a home’s appearance.
What are some roof design trends you are seeing in the market?
(KB) There are a lot more color options to choose from today. Owens Corning offers homeowners the option of so many dimensional colors. It’s kind of unbelievable how color options have expanded. When I was a kid, we had cedar, tan and black. Now, you get to have this luxurious moment with the roof and all of the shingle color selections. And luxury is something people expect now — even first-time home buyers.
(ET) When you have so many options, selecting a color gets easier. The undertones in the Owens Corning TruDefinition® Designer shingle line are neutral, but the pops of color and dimensional textures in the granules make roof color more interesting.
What advice do you offer to homeowners for choosing a shingle color?
(KB) Color tools help homeowners make a beautiful decision that still feels safe. Matching a shingle with a monotone or selecting a complementary color makes it work. I ask people, “Tell me about colorful things that you love,” and that gets them going down a color path. Online style boards and color tools let people see how unexpected color pairings come together. I love the Owens Corning Duration® Designer shingles in Black Sable, which give the richness of slate. And I also love Owens Corning Duration®Designer shingle colors Storm Cloud and Pacific Wave!
I used to carry a color wheel. If you’re not confident, you just look across the wheel and there’s a complementary color on the opposite side.
(ET) As long as you are coordinating colors well, you can use almost any color and it will look good. It’s about making sure that you have the right colors paired together. And so, whether you go with a Prairie Craftsman or an Italianate look, it will still look good because you are pairing things properly.
How can a contractor assist homeowners in selecting a roof color?
(KB) A color consultation is a good place to start. Contractors in the Owens Corning Roofing Contractor Network can offer design tools to help inspire a color decision. When looking at shingle boards, removing the color options homeowners don’t like makes it easy to focus on colors that may pair well.
In our business, we’ve proven that you can work design into the home’s improvement and still get the performance and budget you’re looking for. The mood boards Owens Corning put together help contractors and homeowners make use of a proven color process.
What does a color consultation involve?
(KB) We ask people to tell us about themselves and about their house and that really helps personalize color. It also brings a sense of luxury design into the process.
(ET) Sometimes homeowners have a perception that a luxury design roof has to be unaffordable. Advances in asphalt shingles and color pairing mood boards provide an approachable design moment that gives homeowners a luxury look at an asphalt price point.
Learn more about Keith and Evan’s collaboration with Owens Corning and check out “Bargain Block” season 4, currently airing on HGTV.
