2025-09-25T07:01:00
(BPT) – Life happens, whether you’re ready or not. So why not be ready? Learn more about the ins and outs of life insurance, and how you can help protect your family’s future, at BostonMutual.com.
2025-09-24T11:01:00
(BPT) – When designing or renovating a bathroom, attention often centers on the elements we see every day: striking tile, bold fixtures and dramatic lighting. These features certainly contribute to a room’s style, but seasoned designers know true luxury often comes from quieter choices — the ones that aren’t immediately visible yet completely transform how a space looks, feels and functions.
One of the most powerful of these design choices is the decision to build elements into the wall. Geberit’s Sigma and Omega in-wall systems conceal the tank and hardware, creating a streamlined, open aesthetic that adds calm and clarity to a space. This subtle decision is increasingly embraced in high-end homes, condominiums and luxury hotels, including the newly renovated Waldorf Astoria in New York, where timeless elegance depends on thoughtful design choices.
Why Quiet Choices Matter
Bathrooms are deeply personal spaces, where design meets daily ritual. Unlike a living room or kitchen, these spaces must balance style and utility in equal measure. By prioritizing what sits behind the wall, homeowners and designers gain the freedom to create cleaner lines, maximize floor space and reduce clutter. The result is a bathroom that feels lighter, simpler and more elegant — one that reflects the principles of quiet luxury, where intentional choices enhance the experience without demanding attention.
These understated decisions often have the most lasting impact. They don’t overwhelm the eye, yet they fundamentally reshape how a room is lived in. It’s a shift from asking, “What can I add to make this space more impressive?” to, “What can I remove to make this space more livable?”
Maximizing Space, Expanding Possibilities
Bathrooms are often the most space-conscious rooms in a home or hotel room, where every inch matters. Concealed in-wall systems immediately free up square footage, making layouts more flexible and movement more comfortable. That additional space creates opportunities designers wouldn’t otherwise have — floating vanities, wall-hung toilets and the freedom to position fixtures in ways that open up new design possibilities.
In compact urban condos, this can mean the difference between a cramped bathroom and one that feels expansive. In large luxury estates, it allows for statement finishes and architectural details to shine without visual clutter. Even in boutique hotels or high-traffic commercial environments, this simple decision creates rooms that feel tailored, intentional and elevated.
Small Details, Lasting Impact
Of course, even the most refined in-wall system still has the toilet bowl and the flush actuator plate. While it may seem like a minor detail, the flush actuator plate is one of the most frequently touched points in a bathroom, blending intuitive functionality with an opportunity for subtle design expression.
Geberit offers the widest range of actuator plates to suit different styles, from modern and minimal to warm and classic. The Sigma40, for example, recently earned the 2025 iF Design Award, demonstrating how even the smallest detail can be recognized on a global stage. Available in finishes and materials that complement any vision, actuator plates prove that the most modest features often carry the most influence.
Redefining Bathroom Luxury
Quiet luxury isn’t about minimalism for its own sake. It’s about design decisions that enhance daily living without overpowering it. Geberit’s Sigma and Omega in-wall systems, paired with actuator plates like the 2025 iF Design award-winning Sigma40, show how what happens behind the wall can have the biggest impact.
From private homes to world-famous hotels, these quiet design choices are reshaping modern bathrooms. They provide more space, more freedom and more refinement — all while working quietly in the background. In the end, the true mark of luxury isn’t always the statement you make. Sometimes, it’s the choice you don’t see.
2025-09-25T05:01:00
(BPT) – Do your eyes feel dry, irritated or just plain tired? You’re not alone. Nearly 16.4 million Americans struggle with dry eye, a condition that’s more than just a nuisance — it can sting, blur your vision, and make everyday moments like reading, working or enjoying a sunset feel like a challenge, according to the National Eye Institute.
The culprit? Dehydration of the eyes. But the solution isn’t just any eye drop — it’s a breakthrough rooted in decades of scientific research. Meet TheraTears®, a doctor-created eye drop that restores eyes’ natural balance and delivers immediate dry eye symptom relief.
The role of electrolytes: Your eyes’ secret to comfort
You might associate electrolytes with sports drinks, but they’re also the unsung heroes of your natural tears. These vital minerals — sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and bicarbonate — work together to support hydrated and balanced eyes, leaving them feeling nourished and comfortable. Without them, your eyes can’t produce enough tears, or the tears evaporate too quickly, leaving behind a salt imbalance that fuels irritation and dryness.
Think of your tear film as a delicate ecosystem. When it’s out of balance and your eyes lose water, you feel the burn — literally. Restoring balance in your eyes is key to feeling relief.
A visionary discovery by a Harvard-trained pioneer
In the late 1970s, Dr. Jeffrey P. Gilbard, a Harvard-trained ophthalmologist, set out to revolutionize dry eye care. As the youngest scientist to receive a National Eye Institute grant at that time, he spent decades at the prestigious Schepens Eye Research Institute uncovering a game-changing truth: To truly relieve dry eyes, you need to mimic the exact electrolyte balance of healthy human tears.
This discovery led to the development of TheraTears® Dry Eye Therapy, a one-of-a-kind eye drop formulated with OxyLytes™, a proprietary blend of the five vital electrolytes found in natural tears. The formula hydrates and soothes dry eyes, and provides them with long-lasting relief.
Eye drops that stand out
Not all eye drops are created equal. Only TheraTears® delivers all five critical electrolytes in a science-backed formula that mirrors your natural tears. Whether you’re battling screen-induced discomfort, dry environments, or the effects of aging, the brand offers tailored solutions:
Available in preservative-free vials for sensitive eyes or multi-dose bottles, TheraTears® fits seamlessly into your routine. Plus, the brand’s Therapy System — which restores, cleanses, and nourishes with drops, an eyelid cleanser, and an omega-3 supplement — offers a holistic approach to reduce the signs and symptoms of dry eyes and restore eyes’ natural balance.
See the world clearly again
Dry eye relief isn’t just about comfort — it’s about reclaiming the moments that matter. Imagine reading a book, driving at night, or enjoying a crisp fall day without the sting of dry eyes holding you back. With TheraTears® that’s not just a possibility — it’s a science.
You can find these over-the-counter eye drops at major retailers or online at TheraTears.com. Ready to see the difference? Your eyes will thank you.
2025-09-24T06:01:00
(BPT) – Each year during the fall and winter, respiratory illnesses like flu, COVID-19 and RSV circulate, and people 65 years and older and people with underlying health conditions are at higher risk of developing serious complications if they get sick. The good news? There are now more tools than ever to help protect you and those you care for from severe respiratory illnesses.
Respiratory illnesses pose a higher risk for older adults and people living with underlying health conditions
The risk of serious outcomes from respiratory illnesses, like hospitalization or even death, increases sharply with age, particularly age 65 years or older, as the immune system weakens over time. If you’re an older adult, you may be more likely to have underlying health conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes or lung disease, which can make it harder for your body to fight off infections.
However, even healthy older adults can still get very sick. Data show that during the 2023-2024 flu season, about 2.6 million adults 65 years and older got sick with flu, 1.5 million needed medical care, nearly 240,000 required hospitalization, and more than 19,000 older adults died from flu-related complications. Additionally, adults 65 and older were 10 times more likely to be hospitalized by flu, COVID-19, or RSV than adults younger than 50.
Everyday actions can help you stay healthy
There are actions you can take to help protect yourself from health risks caused by respiratory illnesses. These actions include staying up to date on vaccinations, practicing good hygiene, taking steps for cleaner air, and using precautions to prevent the spread of illness if you do get sick.
For older adults, or people with an underlying health condition, health is often top of mind — while getting vaccinated against respiratory viruses may be farther down the list. But getting vaccinated can mean the difference between staying healthy and active and being hospitalized, or worse. Even if you do get sick, being vaccinated can lessen your symptoms and severity of your illness.
You may be eligible for flu, COVID-19, and RSV vaccines, and can even get multiple vaccines at the same visit. Talk to your healthcare provider about what recommended vaccines may be right for you.
If you do get sick, act fast
If you feel symptoms like cough, fever, body aches or fatigue, don’t wait to take care of yourself. Treatment may be available, but it works best when started early, ideally within a few days of when symptoms start. Testing can help confirm what illness you have so you can access the right care. At-home tests are available for both COVID-19 and flu, making it easier to get answers quickly.
Stay home and away from other people until you have been fever-free for 24 hours and your other symptoms have improved. Then, take extra precautions, like practicing good hygiene and taking steps for cleaner air, for the next five days to avoid spreading illness to others.
Protect yourself and your peace of mind
Getting vaccinated and taking everyday actions can help keep you and your loved ones healthy. Talk to your healthcare provider about which vaccines are recommended for you.
You have spent a lifetime caring for others. Now is the time to prioritize your own health. Visit the CDC’s website or talk to your healthcare provider today to learn more about how to protect your health this season.
2025-09-24T09:01:00
(BPT) – When you picture a cattle rancher you might imagine someone wearing a cowboy hat and riding a horse, not a conservationist. But that’s what most ranchers are.
“Ranchers and farmers were the first environmentalists, and we take that very seriously,” said Darrick Whipple, Land & Government Affairs Manager at Deseret Ranch.
Caring for cattle is also an opportunity to care for the land, and farmers and ranchers work hard to protect the land they are entrusted to manage, and that we all depend on. Not only is this the right thing to do, but it’s also critical for ranching families who take pride in passing the way of life down to future generations.
While farming and ranching looks different across the country, one thing remains the same: when it comes to raising cattle, it all starts with healthy soil and plant life. Without that, the cattle would have nowhere to graze, and the farm or ranch could not be sustainable — environmentally or for the future. This is why for farmers and ranchers, sustainability means so much. More than 90% of U.S. farms and ranches are family-owned and 78% of ranchers plan to invest in their community by continuing to preserve open space and passing their farm or ranch on to future generations. It is this family pride that drives farmers and ranchers to carefully manage the land and leave it better generation after generation.
The “Cattle Calling” series by the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, a contractor to the Beef Checkoff, offers glimpses into the real lives of ranching families across the country. From families who have been ranching for more than 100 years, to those who just got their start, each video reveals how farmers and ranchers tackle everything from environmental challenges and extreme weather events to family obligations and community building.
Thriving in harsh environments
The founders of Deseret Ranch acquired 200,000 acres of untamed land in central Florida 75 years ago. Today, 45,000 cows and close to 100 full-time employees call this challenging environment home, enduring high temperatures, humidity and very sandy soil as they raise cattle and carry on a lesser-known way of life with deep roots in the Sunshine State.
Over the years Central Florida has become less known for its marshes and wildlife and more for theme parks and rapid growth. A state known for its tourism, many visitors to Florida have no idea that just miles off the beaten path, tucked between the attractions and the beaches, one of the world’s largest ranches has been able to preserve Florida’s natural landscape and wildlife habitat.
“The cattle and wildlife have to have a symbiotic relationship,” explained Eric Batey, Area Manager. “Our responsibility as stewards of the land is to keep the native populations of animals thriving,” added Jase Taylor, Wildlife Manager.
While the gators, otters and vibrantly colored birds co-existing with thousands of head of cattle is unique to Central Florida, this is one example of how grazing lands and ranches across the country provide a range of ecosystem services like water regulation and purification, carbon sequestration, wildfire suppression and wildlife habitat. Ranchers know the decisions they make today have an impact for future generations, so they work to manage natural resources in a way that benefits the environment, because that environment is what pays them back.
Putting land and animals first
In the much drier climate of southeastern Colorado is May Ranch. At first glance the landscape appears harsh and less than ideal for wildlife, but what can’t be seen is the colony of endangered black-footed ferrets that live underground and call the ranch home. The May family has long been known for their conservation efforts, which is exactly why their ranch was chosen by Colorado Parks and Wildlife for the releasing of North America’s rarest mammal into the wild.
Just two years later, both the effort to save the endangered species and the family livelihood were tested when a wildfire tore across the ranch. In all, more than 9,000 acres burned, threatening cattle and wildlife and destroying more than 50 miles of fence. Undeterred, the family worked to rebuild stronger with an increased focus on conserving the land’s diverse ecosystem.
“We care so deeply for all of our animals. We take care of them before we take care of ourselves,” said Debbie Davis. “We make sure they have everything that they need.”
The May family is committed to educating the next generation about the importance of biodiversity and is well aware of the importance of grasslands for carbon sequestration.
“It’s unbelievable when you start studying how much carbon can truly be stored here underneath our feet,” said Riley May. “This ranch would not have been kept in its native state if it had been plowed up and farmed; it would have had a huge release of carbon,” added Dallas May.
Supporting the community
In the middle of Tennessee, first-generation cattle farmers Ben and Lauren Neale are supporting their community from the ground up. While raising four busy children, one of whom has special needs, the Neales still find time to manage their growing farm and serve their local community by opening a local processing facility and store — a true farm-to-table family story.
Through Light Hill Meats, the Neales support the entire community with access to local meat processing and high-quality food products, and by providing jobs to those in need. Their retail store allows them to work with a sober living program and they often employ people who are transitioning to life after prison and recovering from substance abuse.
“Ben appreciates the work being done at home so he can go out and grow this business and branch it out to where he is bringing it into the community,” said Lauren Neale. “He’s bringing in people who have a great skillset, giving them a livelihood. I’m proud and glad to help him on that journey of helping other people.”
The role of cattle in sustainability
When well-managed, beef cattle provide important ecosystem services like converting human-inedible plant fiber into protein, cycling organic nutrients into the soil, maintaining wildlife habitats and producing food from land that could not otherwise be used for crops. These ranchers help to keep these pristine places intact, while providing a much-needed resource for society.
Visit BeefItsWhatsForDinner.com to learn more. To watch the Cattle Calling videos, visit CattleCalling.org.
References:
USDA-NASS. 2017. Census of Agriculture. Farm Typology. https://www.nass.usda.gov/Publications/AgCensus/2017/Online_Resources/Typology/typology.pdf
National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA). 2017. 2017 Cattlemen’s Stewardship Review. Found on https://www.beefboard.org/2018/05/14/2017-cattlemens-stewardship-review/.
2025-09-23T15:03:00
(BPT) – According to the Bank of America 2025 Workplace Benefits Report, today’s workforce is looking for benefits that address immediate financial challenges, like emergency savings and debt support, while helping them save for the future, too.
Employees say the financial resources they value most offer real-time learning and navigation tools. At the top of the list: retirement education, guidance on creating income in retirement, and tools to build healthy financial habits.
“Employees may have more resources available than they realize and too often they leave valuable tools on the table,” said Lorna Sabbia, Head of Workplace Benefits at Bank of America. “Taking advantage of benefits can make a big difference in building both short-term stability and long-term financial confidence.”
A Shifting Benefits Landscape
Though employees say retirement education and planning remain a top priority, they’re growing more interested in other resources.
This includes tools to build healthy financial habits, online trackers to measure progress and support with other big goals like emergency savings, budgeting and debt, mortgages or college costs — resources that go beyond day-to-day money management. Since 2023, the percentage of workers asking for help with near-term financial needs like emergency savings or college costs has doubled, rising from 13% to 26%.
Employers are responding by offering more services like debt counseling, emergency savings programs and tools to help workers manage competing priorities. However, only 46% of all employers provide comprehensive financial wellness programs, leaving many employees without the guidance they seek.
3 Ways for Employees to Maximize Workplace Benefits
Employees should take a closer look at their workplace resources and consider how they might support their broader financial goals. Here are three key tips:
1. Do your homework on available resources
Many employees do not realize the range of resources their workplace already provides. Beyond retirement accounts, employers may offer investing education, professional financial advice, debt counseling or even peer mentoring programs. These tools can help employees build lasting financial skills and make better-informed decisions. Workers who take time to explore what’s available are more likely to feel confident about their financial direction.
2. Take full advantage of retirement benefits
Retirement remains a top priority, with seven in 10 employees calling it a top financial goal. Yet nearly half wish they had started saving earlier. By investing in a company-sponsored 401(k) early, employees can begin setting aside money in every paycheck from the start of their career. Many employers also offer matching contributions, often described as “free money” toward retirement. More than 35% of employees say they regret not taking advantage of this match program earlier in their careers.
3. Plan for hidden costs down the road
However, retirement planning is about more than contributing to a 401(k). Health care expenses, in particular, are a looming cost that many employees underestimate. Almost 40% of employees aren’t actively saving for future health care costs at all. Health savings accounts (HSAs) can play an important role, offering potential tax advantages1 that help employees save more efficiently over time. College savings for children or grandchildren is another area often overlooked. Building these expenses into long-term planning helps reduce surprise costs later in life.
3 Ways for Employers to Support Employees’ Financial Wellness
Employers can play a role in helping workers secure their financial futures. Financial wellness programs are linked to higher job satisfaction, stronger retention and better productivity.2 More than eight in 10 employers now say these resources are a key factor in staying competitive in the job market. Here are three suggestions:
1. Adopt technology to simplify saving
Automation helps employees get started. Auto-enrollment in retirement plans ensures workers begin saving earlier, while auto-escalation increases contributions over time. Online calculators and budgeting tools give employees a clearer picture of their financial progress and make planning less intimidating.
2. Make retirement planning and saving a priority
Encouraging employees to save early for retirement can help them pursue their goals — even if retirement is far away. Company-sponsored 401(k) plans allow workers to contribute automatically through payroll deductions. It’s also important to communicate any retirement benefits clearly and frequently, so employees know what is available to them.
3. Improve education on health care costs
Health care is one of the biggest gaps in retirement planning. Only 21% of employees are currently using their health savings account to save for future health care. Employers can close this gap by improving communication about health savings accounts and how Medicare fits into retirement planning. Clear guidance helps employees prepare for expenses they may otherwise overlook.
Taking the Next Step
For employees, the most important step is starting the conversation. Human resources departments and benefits managers can clarify what programs are available and how to use them. In many cases, workers may find that their employer already offers the very tools they want but might not be aware of.
For employers, the next step is to communicate offerings clearly, make benefits easy to access and be responsive to what workers actually need. That can mean automatically enrolling employees in 401(k) plans, analyzing which benefits are being used most and regularly surveying employees to identify priorities for future offerings. These actions help make sure resources are not just available but are actively supporting broader financial wellness.
In addition to workplace programs, free online resources like Better Money Habits can provide practical financial planning guidance. From budgeting tips to retirement calculators, these tools can help employees set priorities and track progress. The key is not waiting until financial stress becomes overwhelming.
“Whether it is saving for retirement, paying off debt or planning for health care, the decisions employees make today can shape their financial future for decades,” said Sabbia. “By taking full advantage of workplace benefits, employees can create a more secure path forward and reduce the stress of navigating savings and spending on their own.”
1You can receive federal income tax-free distributions from your HSA to pay or be reimbursed for qualified medical expenses you incur after you establish the HSA. If you receive distributions for other reasons, the amount you withdraw will be subject to income tax and may be subject to an additional 20% tax, unless an exception applies. Any interest or earnings on the assets in the account are federal income tax-free. You may be able to claim a tax deduction for contributions you, or someone other than your employer, make to your HSA directly (not through payroll deductions). In addition, HSA contributions may reduce your state income taxes in certain states.
Certain limits may apply to employees who are considered highly compensated key employees. Bank of America recommends you contact qualified tax or legal counsel before establishing an HSA.
2 McKinsey Health Institute Report, “Thriving workplaces: How employers can improve productivity and change lives,” January 16, 2025.
All data included is from the Bank of America 2025 Workplace Benefits Report, unless otherwise noted.
Workplace Benefits Report Methodology
Escalent surveyed a national sample of 962 employees who are working full-time and participate in 401(k) plans, and 800 employers who offer both a 401(k) plan and have sole or shared responsibility for decisions made in the plan. The survey was conducted between December 2, 2024, and January 13, 2025. After the original research was complete, we complemented our annual study with an employee-focused supplemental survey conducted between April 10 and May 1, 2025. This survey consisted of 508 employees working full-time and participating in 401(k) plans. The mid-year touchpoint allowed us to better measure the direct impact of current market conditions on employee feelings of financial wellness. To qualify for the survey, employees had to be current participants of a 401(k) plan and employers had to offer a 401(k) plan option. Neither was required to work with Bank of America. Bank of America was not identified as the sponsor of the study.
Bank of America, its affiliates, and financial advisors do not provide legal, tax, or accounting advice. You should consult your legal and/or tax advisors before making any financial decisions.
Investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal.
Workplace Benefits is the institutional retirement and benefits business of Bank of America Corporation (“BofA Corp.”) operating under the name “Bank of America.” Investment advisory and brokerage services are provided by wholly owned non-bank affiliates of BofA Corp., including Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated (also referred to as “MLPF&S” or “Merrill”), a dually registered broker-dealer and investment adviser and Member SIPC. Banking activities may be performed by wholly owned banking affiliates of BofA Corp., including Bank of America, N.A., Member FDIC.
Investment products:
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Are Not FDIC Insured |
Are Not Bank Guaranteed |
May Lose Value |
© 2025 Bank of America Corporation. All rights reserved. MAP #8385440
2025-09-23T20:11:00
(BPT) – By Eun Seok-hyun, president of the LG Vehicle Solution (VS) Company
As president of the LG Vehicle Solution (VS) Company, IAA Mobility 2025 gave me the opportunity to present our vision to a global audience. I had the privilege of sharing the stage with Chris Jo, senior vice president and head of LG’s webOS Platform Business Center, along with our partners from Xbox and Zoom. Together, we are defining what it takes to transform the car into a true living space on wheels.
LG Automotive Content Platform: Driving the Future of In-Cabin Connectivity
As Chris Jo highlighted, we have extended webOS — trusted across 240 million devices worldwide — into vehicles with our webOS-based Automotive Content Platform (ACP). This enables automakers to deliver rich multimedia experiences such as OTT streaming, cloud gaming and video conferencing on a global scale. With full UI/UX customization and new revenue opportunities, the webOS platform is moving beyond the living room and shaping the future of the mobility ecosystem.
Xbox: Cloud Gaming Hits the Road
For Xbox, this partnership is an exciting moment, finding a new way to bring the joy of gaming to more people. Chris Lee, Vice President of Marketing at Xbox, noted the challenge of bringing the Xbox experience from TVs into cars, particularly around performance and seamless integration.
By leveraging our ACP, Xbox delivers a quality in-car gaming experience via its popular cloud gaming service, while LG manages the essential integration and certification work. This means passengers can access the same trusted Xbox Cloud Gaming service wherever they travel — during a charging stop or long road trip. Chris described it as making the journey “not only more entertaining but supporting the flexibility players expect from Xbox,” and I believe this underscores the true value of collaboration.
Zoom: Meetings on Wheels
Brendan Ittelson, Chief Ecosystem Officer at Zoom, spoke about creating a consistent collaboration experience across different vehicles — a vision that naturally aligns with ours. By integrating directly with our webOS-based ACP, Zoom can deliver updates and improvements as soon as they’re ready without waiting on OEM software cycles.
Drivers can join meetings safely in voice-only mode, and passengers can attend camera-enabled video calls, while Zoom AI Companion automatically captures summaries and action items in the background. As Brendan explained, “The in-cabin experience is quickly shifting from passive to purposeful,” becoming a place where people can stay connected and productive without sacrificing safety.
Affectionate Intelligence for the Road Ahead
Looking at the bigger picture, the future of in-vehicle innovation will be shaped by AI — what we call “Affectionate Intelligence” — that not only understands users but also seamlessly integrates functions for safety, entertainment, communication and comfort. To transform vehicles into true extensions of living spaces, LG must take on the role of orchestrator, working closely with our content partners and automakers to create a genuinely human-centered mobility ecosystem.
My key takeaway from the panel was that each of us — LG, Xbox and Zoom — brings distinct strengths to the table. Xbox is taking a bold step into automotive gaming, Zoom is working to redefine productivity on the move and LG is driving toward an AI-powered mobility ecosystem. Guided by these shared goals, the path forward is clear.
With webOS at the core and trusted partners by our side, we are accelerating platform-driven growth in mobility. The future of the car won’t just be about transportation — it will be about creating experiences that connect, entertain and empower us wherever the road leads.
2025-09-23T15:09:00
(BPT) – With the colder months approaching and more time spent indoors, now is the perfect opportunity to refresh and refine your living spaces.
From painting cabinets to window frames, simple updates can create a warmer, more inviting atmosphere for the season and help protect and preserve the beauty of your home’s interior for years to come. If you’re considering selling your home, refreshing your living areas is also a great way to boost its value before putting the house on the market next spring.
Five Star Painting knows the power of an interior refresh. Consider its top eight interior enhancement projects, which can elevate your space and extend your home’s longevity while adding value this winter season.
Cabinet refacing: A smarter makeover
Ever looked around your kitchen and thought, “I wish it felt brand new, but I don’t want the hassle or expense of a full remodel”? That’s where cabinet refacing comes in.
Through its partnership with nuDoors, Five Star Painting offers homeowners a modern, efficient solution. Instead of tearing everything out, they replace just the visible parts — your cabinet doors, drawer fronts and any exposed side panels — with fresh, custom-made styles and finishes.
The existing cabinet boxes remain in place and are refinished to match, so everything blends seamlessly. The end result? A kitchen that looks brand new — without the mess, cost or downtime of a traditional remodel.
Cabinet painting and refinishing
Painting or refinishing your cabinets breathes new life into your kitchen. Cabinets take up the most kitchen space, so choosing a paint or stain color that works best for your space is critical. For example, if you have a small kitchen, avoid cool whites, which can make a small space look dingy, and opt for a warm white or ivory instead.
After the paint has dried, it’s essential to keep your cabinets clean. Avoid harsh chemicals. More often than not, your cabinets will need a gentle wipe-down with a damp microfiber cloth to remove light splatters and dust. For grease and grime, dish soap and warm water can keep your cabinets clean and the kitchen cozy.
Crown molding and trim painting
Add character and define your space by giving crown molding and trim a fresh coat of paint. This is a significant upgrade for winter because even a slight touch-up on your trim sharpens the look and helps seal edges against winter drafts. Plus, this simple painting project holds up beautifully during the chilly months.
Before painting, remember to prepare the surface by scraping or peeling paint with a putty knife, removing hardened caulk, filling in holes or gaps and sanding the surface smooth. Taking the time to do it right can help you avoid having to repaint to cover up mistakes.
Room painting
Painting one or multiple rooms can completely transform a space, whether repainting the same color or changing the shade entirely.
Focusing on one room — or even just one wall — can make the space more inviting and keep daily wear at bay longer. If you’re considering painting multiple rooms, it’s better to do so in one go so your home has a consistent glow. This can also be done as winter approaches.
Window painting
A crisp new coat around your window frames the view and helps block the chill when the temperature drops. When painting a window sash that opens and closes vertically, keep the window open until the paint is fully dry. For painting narrow pieces of trim that run perpendicular to the glass, use a 1-inch trim for a neat job.
Professional painting services
You can do any of the projects on your own, but a professional interior painting service is the easiest way to enliven your home’s mood. By hiring painting professionals like those at Five Star Painting, you can rest easy knowing that they use only high-quality paints from top-rated brands to guarantee a stunning finish that stands the test of time. Plus, the company’s two-year warranty ensures that the job isn’t done until it’s done right.
Weather this winter with confidence
Whether you’re staying for years to come or selling soon, these eight interior refresh projects can easily upgrade your home’s aesthetic, promote longevity and increase its value. To learn more, visit FiveStarPainting.com/interior-enhancements.
2025-09-23T09:51:00
(BPT) – With so many options available for household appliances today, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But when it comes to an everyday workhorse like your washing machine, you’ll want to consider how its design most benefits you and your family, how you do your chores and what you need most when it comes to performance, ease of use, convenience and capacity, among other features. The model you select can make all the difference.
Here are the five top things to consider when choosing your next washer.
1. Don’t fear heavy-duty loads
Does the washer deliver powerful cleaning that’s both effective and efficient? With the WT8600CW 5.5 cu. ft. Mega Capacity Top Load Washer with TurboWash™ Washer with Steam, ezDispense®, Wi-Fi Connectivity from LG Electronics, for example, you’ll experience powerful cleaning performance combined with user-friendly features.
Whether they’re handling everyday laundry or heavy-duty loads, LG’s top loading washers offer efficient cleaning with TurboWash3D™ technology, which uses a powerful jet spray plus a tub and motor that rotate independently and in opposite directions, creating a powerful water flow that causes garments to rub against each other throughout the cycle for enhanced washing performance. This feature is ideal for busy households seeking efficiency without compromising on cleanliness.
2. No sock left behind
Have you ever struggled to reach items at the bottom of the tub? Struggle no more. LG’s Mega Capacity Top Load Washer is designed to put everything within easy reach, without sacrificing capacity. Its EasyUnload™ angled washer front offers more comfortable, ergonomic reach that lets you lean in and grab every last sock, without sacrificing capacity. There’s also no need to dig out detergent and fabric softener when the ezDispense® Automatic Dispenser cleans up to 25 loads with 1 easy fill.
Even better, this model has a convenient SlamProof™ Glass Lid that automatically (and gently) closes every time, and can even firmly hold itself at certain angles, thanks to a smooth-operating hydraulic hinge. You’ll also love its flat front design and sleek controls with LED or LCD display that make it easy to get laundry day dialed in, along with a modern design that elevates any laundry space.
3. Wash smarter, not harder
Having a washer with built-in intelligence means taking the guesswork out of every laundry load. Intuitive electronic controls and built-in intelligence make it easy to customize your wash, or let AI Wash do it for you.
Equipped with LG ThinQ® technology, washers like the LG Mega Capacity Top Load Washer let you control and monitor your laundry remotely via your smartphone or using voice commands with Alexa and Google voice assistants. You can receive notifications, start or stop cycles and download specialized wash programs to enhance your laundry experience.
ThinQ UP™ appliances evolve with you through continual software updates for new downloadable features and enhancements sent wirelessly to the appliance, and ThinQ Care™ helps keep your appliance running smoothly by sending proactive usage, maintenance and diagnostic alerts to your smartphone.
4. No sink? No worries
Don’t let stains put you on the spot. If you need to treat stains quickly, don’t panic if you don’t have a sink right there. The LG Mega Capacity Top Load Washer model offers a convenient Water Faucet option you’ll wonder how you lived without. Just press the Faucet pad to turn on water in the tub while you treat and scrub. When you’re done, simply close the lid or press Faucet again, and the water will automatically drain.
5. Save time with fewer loads
Face it: Busy families need more capacity for washing. LG’s top-load washers can handle large loads, with capacities up to 5.5 cubic feet. Bigger loads mean reducing the number of cycles needed to be done, saving time for what matters most. This is perfect for busy families, or anyone looking to avoid being glued to the washer on laundry days.
Ready to find your next washer? You’ll feel confident knowing that LG has been ranked America’s Most Reliable and #1 Appliance Brand by OpenBrand MindShare. Visit LG.com to learn more.
2025-09-22T09:01:00
(BPT) – If you are pregnant, you already know how quickly joy can mix with physical strain. Sleepless nights, aching hips, swelling and postpartum soreness affect how you sleep, sit, stand and feed your baby. Many women turn to pregnancy pillows, supportive wraps or recovery garments hoping for relief — yet not all products deliver on their promises.
At the core of Momcozy’s philosophy is a simple but powerful principle: Mom First. As the global No. 1 wearable breast pump brand, Momcozy ensures every product originates from a deep understanding of mothers’ real needs. The brand’s cozy tech approach combines these insights with scientific rigor and expert collaboration, ensuring that innovations like the revolutionary Air 1 breast pump are designed with genuine care and precision.
Here’s what to consider when selecting products that truly support you throughout pregnancy and postpartum recovery.
Choose products inspired by real mothers’ experiences
During the third trimester, many women are advised to sleep on their side. However, the weight of the fetus often places pressure on the hips, back and bladder, leading to discomfort and frequent nighttime trips to the bathroom.
Research published this year by the National Library of Medicine indicates that more than half of pregnant women experience poor sleep quality in the final stages of pregnancy.
Guided by its Mom First ethos, Momcozy developed the PP110 Pregnancy Pillow to address these challenges. Launched in March 2025, its G-shape design and adjustable leg support help redistribute weight, relieve bladder pressure and improve sleep quality. Mothers who tested the pillow reported fewer interruptions and less morning stiffness.
Tip: Choose products shaped by authentic maternal feedback — not assumptions.
Select science-backed designs
Feeding and pumping equipment requires frequent cleaning. Because damp bottles and pump parts can harbor bacteria, many mothers find themselves caught in a relentless cycle of washing, boiling and doubting whether items are fully sanitized.
Momcozy’s Bottle Sterilizer was created to simplify this process. Anchored in the Cozy Tech philosophy, it uses high-temperature steam to eliminate 99.9% of common bacteria. A medical-grade HEPA filter also blocks dust, spores and other airborne contaminants from settling during the drying phase. It’s another example of how the brand transforms daily challenges into reliable solutions.
Tip: Look for products validated by research and testing — not just claims.
Trust expert-verified comfort
While many products promise comfort, independent expert validation helps distinguish truly effective designs from the rest.
Momcozy’s new Air 1 breast pump — the brand’s first fully transparent and lightest model to date — exemplifies the Mom First commitment. Developed through extensive engagement with mothers, its transparent chamber allows users to monitor nipple placement and milk collection, reducing common issues like improper flange fit and suction discomfort. International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs) have endorsed its ergonomic and efficient design.
This expert approval extends beyond breastfeeding products. This year, Momcozy’s Ergonest Maternity Support Belt was awarded the Innovation Award at Kind+Jugend 2025 for excellence in safety, design and functionality — a recognition that underscores the brand’s dedication to trusted quality.
Tip: Choose products endorsed by independent professionals — not just packaging promises.
Make choices that support you
Pregnancy and the postpartum period bring enough challenges without the added stress of product trial and error.
By choosing items inspired by real-world needs, grounded in science and endorsed by experts, you can devote more energy to what truly matters: recovering well and bonding with your baby.
Experience the Mom First difference at Momcozy’s Brand Day, where the brand honors its Cozy by You community. Discover how maternal insights drive meaningful innovations like the Air 1, and explore comfort-certified essentials designed for real motherhood at momcozy.com.
