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2018-03-20T16:01:00

(BPT) – As the weather starts to warm up, Americans will hit the road more often for destinations ranging from family outings to spring vacation destinations. Because cars are such an important part of our daily lives, Hankook Tire examined what drives Americans to keep up with car maintenance, as well as what matters when maintenance can do no more and it’s time to visit the dealership.

Leave it to me

Two-thirds (69 percent) of drivers perform their own car maintenance, according to the latest Hankook Tire Gauge survey. Among those who do so, the main motivator is to save money (54 percent). Others like doing it to save time (28 percent), because they prefer knowing exactly what’s going into their vehicles (26 percent), or it’s a fun task for some who simply enjoy it (22 percent). In fact, about one-third (35 percent) of drivers started taking responsibility for car maintenance as soon as they earned their licenses.

The air in the spare

When asked the most elaborate car maintenance they’ve performed without help from a mechanic, most Americans said that they have either changed the oil (21 percent) or changed a tire (21 percent). But being able to change your own tire won’t do much good if the spare doesn’t have any air in it! Twenty-nine percent of Americans never check their spare tire’s air pressure, which could be deflating if it’s flat too. Fortunately, checking the air in the spare is part of a regular maintenance routine for more than half of drivers (57 percent).

Remind me

Generally, Americans agree that they welcome a nudge to check their tire pressure, and 44 percent say that automatic tire pressure monitors ensure they check it regularly. Experts suggest checking your tire pressure once a month. Even new tires with minimal wear and tear lose air due to factors like temperature change, driving distance or carrying added weight in your vehicle. Now is a good time to check your air pressure, as temperature fluctuations reduce tire pressure by about 1 psi for every 10 degrees Fahrenheit the outside air temperature drops.

Purchasing power

Should the time come to purchase new tires, money talks. The Hankook Tire Gauge Index found that price influences nearly two-thirds (63 percent) of tire purchases, and similarly, 38 percent of drivers report that rebates, like Hankook Tire’s Great Catch rebate, also impact their purchase decision. When it comes to the brand, however, drivers maintain an open mind. While nearly half of drivers (43 percent) say they have a brand in mind when they enter the dealership, they are flexible on what they ultimately buy — only 16 percent of Americans go into the dealer set on a particular brand.

Price also impacts vehicle purchases (41 percent). When shopping for a new car, drivers focus on price more than twice that of safety (18 percent) or performance (15 percent). And women are more price-conscious than men, as 45 percent of women consider the price when buying a new car, as opposed to only 37 percent of men.

Whether you are driven by price or performance, regular maintenance and vehicle knowledge is key to avoiding unexpected bumps in the road.

2018-03-21T12:01:00

(BPT) – El Salvador, Central America’s smallest country, attracts a wide array of intrepid travelers who come to experience its vibrant culture and diverse outdoor activities. From its rich Maya history, to its volcanic beauty and generations-old artisan heritage, El Salvador provides plenty for travelers to explore.

El Salvador is incredibly easy to reach from the U.S. and offers everything from ecotourism to culinary adventures at a fraction of the price of more well-known Central American destinations. There are regular direct flights to El Salvador from major U.S. cities, including New York City, Washington, D.C., and Los Angeles, and there is no need to exchange money upon arrival, as the U.S. dollar is the national currency.

Here are five ways to make the most of a trip to El Salvador.

1. Kick back at the beach

There is no shortage of world-class beaches in El Salvador, with warm Pacific waters lapping on nearly 200 miles of coastline. Surfers flock to La Libertad for its renowned waves and international competitions. Those interested in learning to surf can find lessons for as low as $10. Along black sand beaches, travelers will find amazing seafood to enjoy while taking in magnificent ocean views.

2. Hike volcanoes and waterfalls

El Salvador is known as the “Land of Volcanoes” with 25 volcanoes visible to the naked eye. Many travelers combine a city tour of San Salvador with an easy volcano hike in El Boquerón National Park, just a short drive from the city. Local guides can navigate visitors up steeper volcanoes for half- and full-day trips. The country’s tallest volcano is Santa Ana Volcano in Cerro Verde National Park northwest of San Salvador where hikers will find moderate to difficult trails with a stunning turquoise crater lake at the top.

3. Get caffeinated on a coffee tour

El Salvador’s high altitude and tropical climate create the ideal conditions for growing coffee beans, and the country is known as one of the world’s top regions for specialty coffee production. Chances are that you have enjoyed java that originated in the mountainous region of El Salvador. A tour of El Carmen Coffee Estate gives visitors a closer look at the coffee-making process and provides the chance to taste some of the best coffee on earth straight from the source.

4. Get crafty with an artisanal immersion

Several of El Salvador’s small colonial towns are known for signature artisanal crafts that travelers can learn during their stay. Those that travel north from San Salvador to the quaint town of Suchitoto can make their way to the Arte Añil workshop and gallery to learn how to dye cloth with indigo as the Maya once did. Further north, the town of La Palma draws inspiration from the Maya to create the Arte Naíf drawing style. Visitors learn to paint with spontaneity without adhering to perfect proportions, creating bright and contrasting colored designs on locally harvested copinol seeds for a truly exotic souvenir.

5. Dig into the past with an archaeological site visit

Known as the “Pompeii of the Americas,” the UNESCO World Heritage Site Joya de Ceren provides a fascinating look at an ancient farming community that was buried in ash from a nearby volcano. A visit to the site and the nearby pyramids at San Andrés educates travelers on the lives of Central America’s original inhabitants who lived there as many as 1,000 years before Europeans arrived.

With easy flight options, low prices for world-class experiences, and the ability to hike a volcano in the morning and surf in the afternoon, it’s not hard to see why El Salvador has become a hot destination for 2018.

2018-03-22T09:01:01

(BPT) – The April 17 tax filing deadline is quickly approaching. While many are excited about the possibility of a tax refund, nearly 1 in 3 taxpayers waits until April to file their return. Whether filing online or meeting with a tax professional, H&R Block shares three tips to help make the final stretch of the tax season less daunting.

1. Get organized

Keeping good records is the foundation for everything else because you can’t deduct what you haven’t documented. Take the time to complete a paper chase and find all tax and financial documents and related information needed to file a tax return. It may be easier to use a customized tax preparation checklist to help you make sure you aren’t missing important documents. Missing tax documents can lead to missing out on tax benefits you are entitled to claim.

Consider starting with your previous year tax return, then track all income and receipts, and finally document each. After that, separate business-only bank accounts and credit cards to make it easier to keep good records and file accurate tax returns. Remember to secure paper and digital records in a safe place like MyBlock, and make sure you back them up too.

2. Don’t overlook credits and deductions

The tax refund is the single largest financial transaction many taxpayers will have in a year. The stakes can be high and mistakes can be costly, especially when it comes to life changes — getting married, having a baby, buying or selling a home, sending a child off to college or retiring. Not understanding how these life changes can impact your return causes many taxpayers to make mistakes and leave money on the table. In fact, the IRS announces annually that approximately $1 billion goes unclaimed in federal tax refunds.

Most taxpayers file their taxes using the standard deduction, but you may be eligible for a variety of deductions or credits that could possibly save you more, including:

* Education benefits: Federal tax credits can help offset the costs of higher education for yourself or your dependents — depending on your academic program, what year the student is in, etc. To qualify, you must pay for post-secondary tuition and fees for yourself, your spouse or your dependent.

* Earned Income Tax Credit for lower-income workers: Twenty percent of eligible taxpayers, particularly lower-income workers, do not claim the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). Keep in mind that eligibility may fluctuate based on financial, marital and parental status, which may cause taxpayers to be ineligible one year, but eligible the next. Also, people tend to overlook the EITC because they may not earn enough income to have to file a return. Remember that the EITC is a refundable credit, so even those who don’t need to file a return can still claim the credit.

* Itemizing deductions: Itemizing can save taxpayers hundreds of dollars, as only 1 in 3 taxpayers itemize, but millions more should. Owning a home is often the key that unlocks itemization, but some taxpayers with high state taxes and charitable contributions may also be able to itemize.

3. Avoid common filing pitfalls

Selecting the wrong filing status can affect which credits and deductions you are eligible for, the value of your standard deduction and your tax bracket. In addition, common clerical errors such as mixing up names, forgetting to include information reported on your W-2, 1099 or other forms, or even making mathematical errors can also affect your tax benefits.

Not filing at all is even worse — as the penalty for not filing a tax return is 10 times greater than the penalty for not paying in full. The best way to avoid this penalty, which could add up to 25 percent to your tax bill, is to file a completed tax return or apply for an extension. An extension to file is not an extension to pay any taxes you might owe. To avoid a penalty, you will need to estimate what you owe and pay at least 90 percent by April 17.

To ensure you get the maximum refund without delay this year, or if you find yourself filing incorrectly, visit hrblock.com for more information, to make an appointment with a tax professional or to start your own tax return online for free.

2018-03-22T10:01:01

(BPT) – Spring is in full swing, which means it’s time to reinvigorate your kitchen with a new look! When planning your refresh, consider these simple, stylish swaps that don’t require investing tons of time or budget.

Upgrade your kitchen fixtures

Faucets often serve as the centerpiece of the kitchen. Replacing an outdated model is an easy way to give your space a facelift. Choose a piece that’s as functional as it is fashionable such as the Delta Allentown Faucet, available at The Home Depot. This faucet offers an industrial, versatile design and tech-savvy appeal for every modern homeowner. Complete with TempSense Technology, the faucet will notify you when water has reached your desired temperature through coded LED light colors.

Liven up your cabinets

Small changes can make all the difference. Replacing outdated cabinet knobs and drawer pulls can give your space a fresh streamlined look with minimal effort. Dated accessories can weigh down the aesthetic of the entire room. Instead, replace with hardware in a bold bronze or sleek matte black finish.

Enhance simple walls

Play with textures to create a more intriguing space. Replace flat wall paint with a backsplash made from unique materials, such as faux-brick, salvaged wood or stainless-steel subway tile. A textured surface touting quality and distinction lends a design-forward aesthetic without breaking the bank.

Embrace the unexpected

Replace traditional décor with curated accents to elevate the space and delight the eye. Incorporate a plush patterned rug or paint cabinets with an on-trend hue of blue, gray and green, such as Behr’s Color of the Year titled, “In the Moment.” Most importantly, remember to let your personality shine by adding items that have special meaning. Whether it’s a set of vintage bronze candlesticks you found at a local antique shop or artwork purchased on vacation, unanticipated personal pieces often create storytelling moments and receive the very best of compliments.

For more design inspiration, visit DeltaFaucet.com/design-innovation/inspiredliving.

2018-03-22T12:01:00

(BPT) – Spring is officially here, bringing flowers, greenery and increased pest activity. Because termite evidence is more noticeable in warmer months, it is important to check for any warning signs every spring. Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to reduce the likelihood of a termite infestation in the first place.

Keep shrubs trimmed

Well-maintained shrubbery looks nice, but it also serves an important purpose: Trimming shrubs reduces the likelihood termites and pests will enter your home. Stray branches that touch a house’s exterior provide pests with direct access to potential entry points. By properly maintaining landscaping, you can make access more difficult for these unwelcome houseguests.

Modify your landscape

It’s important to make smart decisions when adding landscaping, because termites are more attracted to some materials than others. Instead of traditional mulch, opt for synthetic mulch or pea gravel. These alternatives are less attractive to termites than wood-based mulch.

Maintain home exteriors

Termites need water to survive. Controlling excess moisture can help reduce the risk of an infestation. Regularly maintaining home exteriors, such as wooden siding and windows, can help you detect and repair leaks early.

Monitor interior moisture

Many homeowners forget to think about moisture inside their homes, particularly in basements and crawlspaces. Properly ventilating these areas helps minimize the amount of moisture around floor joists and subflooring. Reducing moisture in interior spaces can help reduce the likelihood that termites will take up residence in your home.

If you suspect you may have a termite problem, the best solution is to call a pest professional such as Terminix. Termite warning signs include blisters in wood flooring, hollowed or damaged wood, and evidence of swarms such as discarded wings, mud tubes and droppings that resemble sawdust or coffee grounds. Early detection can prevent a small termite problem from becoming a widespread infestation.

2018-03-22T14:01:00

(BPT) – Let your soul experience one of the most stunning and pristine places on earth, Western Australia’s Kimberley. Its coastline is so unspoiled, dinosaur footprints still smatter the rocks. Its oceans are so untouched, whales nurse their young in its warm waters. Its indigenous culture is so ancient, no other can match it. The Kimberley is more than a remarkable region in Western Australia; it’s one of the most fascinating and least explored places in the world. As world travelers seek unexplored destinations, The Kimberley has been added to their bucket list of dream vacations. This is a place that commands explorers to indulge in its many wonders.

A last true wilderness

Both magical and rugged, Western Australia’s Kimberley is one of the few last wilderness areas, like Alaska, Galapagos, Antarctica and the Amazon, where you feel the rawness of the earth and the wonder of nature with an ancient story. Immediately, there is a deep intangible presence in the Kimberley that is at once powerful yet calming. Night-blooming flowers from the giant Boab trees make the air fragrant while the night sky glitters with millions of stars.

The gateway to the Kimberley is the small pearling town of Broome, home to some of the largest and most prized pearls, where camel rides on Cable Beach is part of everyday life and where nine sets of dinosaur footprints cast as massive fossils. The influence of the pearling industry, with its melting pot of cultures and cuisines, has helped to create the distinctive character and charm of Broome, which offers select beach resorts, a unique calendar of events and exquisite dining options, including locally caught fresh seafood.

Modern means of exploration

The best way to experience the Kimberley is through expedition cruising. A unique collection of companies operate boats that take passengers to the region’s most pristine beaches and reefs, to towering waterfalls so close you can feel the fresh mist on your face, through ancient gorges, and to 350-million-year-old rock formations. Through expedition cruising, you will likely place your footstep where no one before you has ever been.

In this remote setting, visitors can encounter the true icons in Western Australia’s North West, including the natural phenomenon of the Horizontal Falls, the majestic 260-foot-tall King George Falls, and the Rowley Shoals featuring coral atolls home to 700 tropical fish species and considered among the best dive spots in the world, where not more than 500 people visit in a year.

Adventure need not be rugged

Just because you’re exploring one of the last untouched wildernesses on the planet doesn’t mean you can’t indulge.

Both adventurous and luxurious, Kimberley cruises bring the savvy traveler to places few humans have seen while offering them the comforts of a delicious meal showcasing local flavors (or your own catch of the day), soft beds, and services that connect travelers with the people and the land.

Every cruise is different. Many have on-board naturalists and experts that guide excursions and open the wonders of the region to curious passengers. Some high-end cruises have a helicopter to take you to the top of the cliffs and give you an unrivaled view of this unforgettable world.

Before heading to the Kimberley, explore Western Australia’s capital city Perth, home to many extraordinary experiences, including one of the world’s largest inner city parks, stunning metro beaches, a lively food and wine scene, marine encounters, and the State’s oldest wine region. Perth is the fastest-growing (and sunniest!) city in Australia.

To find the cruise that’s right for you, check out the Kimberley Expedition Cruise Guide, an invaluable resource that showcases a number of companies offering world-class excursions throughout this stunning region, or visit Down Under Answers, Qantas Vacations and Southern World.

2018-03-23T09:01:00

(BPT) – Life moves pretty fast, especially on a weeknight when the commute is long or the kids have their evening homework and activities. On top of it all, everyone is turning to you for a hot meal.

For a simple solution to your dinnertime needs, there’s one option that reduces time spent in the kitchen: the frozen food aisle. Here are five reasons why you should take a moment to explore your grocer’s freezer section to keep your evenings running smoothly.

1. Save steps during meal prep

Food from the freezer section is specially made to save you time in the kitchen. Behind those glass doors are plenty of key ingredients, ready to add to the pot, oven or microwave for a hot dinner in minutes. Here, you’ll find your protein of choice is already portioned and seasoned, and vegetables are cleaned, peeled or pared. You can even pick up precooked whole grains, such as rice, quinoa and risotto, saving valuable cook time and cleanup.

2. Enjoy bold new flavors in minutes

The frozen food aisle is teeming with flavor-packed, restaurant-inspired entrees, appetizers and sides you can use to spice up your weekly menu. Options like SeaPak Selections Shrimp Wonton Soup and Thai Coconut Shrimp Soup are ready at the press of a button and go from freezer to table in just 6 minutes. These ultra-convenient solutions are a healthy and delicious choice that everyone will enjoy, no matter the time of day.

3. It lets you stock up

Frozen foods maintain their quality for far longer than their fresh counterparts. Next time you make your grocery list, stock up on your favorite frozen staples and mealtime essentials so you’re ready to roll whenever hunger strikes, even when life gets crazy.

4. Convenience at a nicer price

When it comes to saving money at the grocery store, nothing beats the affordable prices in the frozen food aisle. It’s a great place to look for deals on prepared proteins, like seafood, and snag a delicious meal for a fraction of what you might spend at a restaurant.

5. Locked-in freshness and flavor

Frozen options taste just as good — sometimes even better — than their non-frozen counterparts. Flash frozen at peak freshness, frozen foods lock in their nutrients and delicious flavor until you’re ready to heat them up. If your favorite fruit or veggie isn’t in season, no problem! A flavorful option awaits in your grocer’s freezer section.

While life can be hectic with the hustle and bustle of busy schedules, the frozen food aisle can help you make delicious meals in minutes. Be sure to take a little time to check out what’s new in the frozen section during your next shopping trip and discover the many tasty mealtime solutions that await.

2018-03-26T15:57:00

(BPT) – The snow has melted, flowers are beginning to bloom, and you wake to the sound of birds chirping: all signs that spring is here. Spring means time to give your lawn the TLC it needs, but most of us dread the thought of weekends spent occupied by yard work. Luckily, in 2018, getting that perfectly green grass and enviable garden does not have to be hard.

* Prevent disease and pests — Disease and pests can be stopped before they strike. At the beginning of the season, use your yard rake to remove any dead grass shoots. By removing this debris early you can prevent disease and pests while also giving your lawn sufficient time to recover.

* Simplify mowing — Cutting the grass no longer requires preparation and setup. With innovative options like the Greenworks 60-volt self-propelled lawn mower, you do not need to worry about gassing up your mower or finding the nearest outlet for the extension cord. The mower can run up to 60 minutes with a fully-charged battery, so it is ready to go when you are, and you never have to smell like gas again! The mower’s smart-cut technology adjusts the power based on the thickness of your grass, extending the run time and improving cutting performance.

* Water on time — Consistency in watering is an easy way to keep your grass green and lush. Maintain a schedule to prevent your grass from drying out and browning. Sprinklers and outdoor timers will ensure that your grass does not miss a watering session.

* Shape hedges — Anyone can create the perfect hedge shape. Now that your grass is healthy, freshly cut and weed-free, it is time to focus on the rest of your yard. Try a cordless, battery-powered product like the Greenworks 60-volt hedge trimmer. The lighter weight and strong power allow you to trim your hedges without wearing out your body. Whether your hedges are up high or running along your fence, no place is out of reach.

Spring is just beginning and now is the time to get a jump start on your lawn. To learn more about the tools that can make lawn care easier this spring, visit www.greenworkstools.com.

2018-03-28T09:01:01

(BPT) – Everyone wants the inside scoop on how to get the best deal. Ironically, consumers will do a bunch of research over a $500 smart phone and relatively little for the largest purchase of their lives, their homes.

Most home buyers focus on price and payments, however, factoring in a home’s energy consumption costs could save tens of thousands of dollars over years of ownership. Comparing the performance and construction quality of one home to another is often not apples to apples. Newly built homes tend to be more energy efficient than older homes, but total performance is also influenced by the builder and design, said CR Herro, a building scientist and vice president of environmental affairs for Meritage Homes.

Home Energy Rating Score

When buying a new or resale home, buyers can use a shopping tool to help them understand the anticipated costs of a home’s energy bills. The Home Energy Rating Score, or HERS, is the industry standard for measuring a home’s energy efficiency. It was created by the not-for-profit Residential Energy Services Network (RESNet), an independent consortium of building scientists and construction experts.

Think of HERS like miles-per-gallon fuel economy for your car, except that a lower HERS is better:

* According to the U.S. Department of Energy, a typical resale home in the U.S. rates a HERS 130 and costs approximately $200,000 in utilities over a 30-year mortgage.

* Utilities for a home that scores 100 would cost 30 percent less, saving $60,000 in operating cost.

* Utilities for a home that scores 65 would cost approximately half, saving $100,000 in operating cost over 30 years.

Some builders, such as Meritage Homes, design homes to capitalize on energy efficiency and can achieve HERS scores lower than the 2016 U.S. average of 62 by including high-efficiency heating, cooling, windows, lighting and insulation in all their homes.

How to know the score

“Knowing the HERS score of your home can be the difference between a European vacation every few years or a kiddie pool in the driveway,” said Herro. “A lower HERS score could also raise the value of your home because the rating is being added to home appraisal standards.” Proposed federal legislation also could provide mortgage borrowing advantages for homes with low HERS, he added.

More than 2 million homes in the U.S. have been HERS rated for energy efficiency, generating energy savings of $268 million in 2016 alone, according to RESNet. More homes are being rated as home builders increase their participation in the HERS program and post the ratings for the homes they build. To find the HERS for a home, a list of participating home builders and tips for improving the energy efficiency of your home, go online to: http://www.hersindex.com/knowthescore/.

2018-03-30T07:01:00

(BPT) – When it comes to business travel, more women are taking to the road and sky to get to their destinations. In fact, women account for 47 percent of all business travel worldwide, reports the Global Business Travel Association.

With female business travel on the rise, many brands are taking note of this growing consumer group. This year, Hertz is continuing its heritage of supporting the needs of female road warriors through award-winning customer service with its new “Her in Hertz” campaign.

Before your next trip, take note of these savvy travel tips and expert advice from frequent traveler Kristina Portillo, founder of BusinessTravelLife.com.

Plan ahead

“Productive business travel starts before I leave for the airport. I can save hours during my travel day by simply planning ahead and not wasting time. Many of my travel accessories never leave my luggage. I have two sets of chargers, headphones, toiletries, etc., so the ones in my bag stay in my bag. I also pack items I need during transit on top. I always travel with a few healthy snacks, so I don’t have to waste time finding snacks at airports.”

Choose reliable brands

“In addition to planning ahead, who you chose for your business travel is equally important. As a mom and frequent business traveler, I need brands that have earned my trust and provide dependable, consistent service. That is why I, and so many other women, choose Hertz, a six-time consecutive winner of the annual Women’s Choice Award.”

Carry-on only

“I save at least an hour by traveling with only a carry-on. If I were to check my bag, I would wait in line at the airport to check it (10 minutes), then wait for it to come to baggage claim (20 minutes) when I reach my destination, and then repeat when I fly home. Traveling with only a carry-on also significantly reduces my chances of luggage being lost.”

Join travel loyalty programs

“Travel loyalty programs reward travelers for their business. These programs come with perks that make travel more efficient and enjoyable. Travel programs also reward their members with upgrades and expedited services (aka less time spent waiting in line).”

Download and use travel apps

“Travel apps are a huge time saver. I use TripIt to organize my itinerary. I use OpenTable and TripAdvisor to find places to dine. And of course, I use airline, car rental and hotel apps during my trip. My airline app will allow me to check in online, serve as a mobile boarding pass and notify me of gate changes and delays. Many hotels now have apps that offer digital check-in and digital keys.

“The goal of a productive business trip is to complete my work before I get home. Therefore, I channel my inner Rihanna and ‘Work, work, work, work, work, work’ as much as possible during my trip. Once I get through security, I find a quiet place to work (preferably a lounge). If my flight has Wi-Fi, I work during my flight. Even without Wi-Fi, I clean out my inbox and reply to email (they will send once I connect to Wi-Fi). Once I get to my hotel, I do not turn on the TV unless I’m caught up on work. As we all know, watching TV is a major distraction and time suck. On the way home, I wrap up any reports and reply to necessary emails to close out my trip.”