Month: December 2019

2019-12-13T09:01:00

(BPT) – With the winter in full swing, ensuring your tires — the last line of defense between your vehicle and harsh conditions — are in working order may be the difference between an enjoyable or stressful travel season. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 17% of all vehicle collisions take place during winter conditions, many of which can be attributed to underinflated, over-worn or out-of-season tires.

“Being on the side of the road due to a preventable vehicle issue is both inconvenient and dangerous,” said Brandon Sturgis, product manager, BFGoodrich Tires. “Before winter arrives, make sure that your car is in its best condition to handle winter weather.”

Below are a few simple tips from BFGoodrich Tires to help ensure your vehicle and tires are better prepared for safe driving this winter.

Tire pressure will change with the weather

Many drivers neglect their tires until it’s too late and experience a tire issue, an inconvenience that only increases during the winter months. To avoid a winter accident caused by unsafe tires, drivers should proactively take measures to maintain their tires. An easy first step is to check the air pressure of all four tires at least monthly. This is especially important during the colder winter months as a drop in temperatures can cause tire pressures to decrease below a vehicle’s recommended inflation levels. To find the manufacturer’s recommended tire pressure, look at the decal in the driver’s door jamb or in the owner’s manual.

Checking your tread should be routine

Many drivers try squeezing as much life out of their tires as possible and run them even after the tread has worn below 2/32 of an inch — the minimum tread deemed safe under the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. If this is you, be sure to stay honest about checking your tread. To do so, find a penny and insert Abraham Lincoln headfirst into the lowest tread on your tire. If any portion of Abe’s head is covered, your tread depth is sufficient. If Honest Abe is still fully visible, your tread is below 2/32 of an inch and the ability to perform in wet and winter conditions is substantially reduced.

The importance of seasonal tires

Understanding your driving environment is as important as understanding which tires best suit your circumstances. Geography is the most intuitive factor playing into one’s driving environment, but certain locations create a more nuanced experience. Do you know which tires are best for your situation?

For example, all-terrain tires such as the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 are suitable year-round tires designed to give you superior grip both off and on the pavement thanks to innovative tread design, tough sidewalls and long-lasting durability.

If you drive in an environment that is regularly below freezing with snow and ice, winter tires may be your best choice. For those yet to treat their vehicle to winter tires during the cold months, consider the BFGoodrich Winter T/A KSI a good starting point. Offering extreme traction in winter conditions and reassuring steering control and durability, your next set of winter tires may keep you from becoming another winter driving collision statistic.

“Tires play a key role in your winter weather mobility. Knowing what kind of tires you have on your car and knowing their condition are part of being prepared,” says Sturgis.

2019-12-12T12:35:00

(BPT) – Winter’s not coming: It’s here. That means extra-chilly weather, as well as driving in snow, ice, rain, fog and sleet. In short, be prepared for much-tougher-than-normal driving conditions, such as super-slippery roads and a decrease in visibility.

The best way to prepare for winter driving is to do just that: prepare. “Be smart and make sure your vehicle is ready for the potentially hazardous weather conditions you’re most likely to face this winter,” said Alan Holtschneider, director of marketing for Yokohama Tire. “A little preparation can go a long way in keeping you and your family safe while driving.”

Holtschneider said the first place to winterize your vehicle is where the rubber meets the road, namely your tires. “Tires influence braking, steering, comfort, handling, safety and fuel efficiency. They are the only part of a vehicle that actually touches the road, so it’s important to have the proper tires on, especially during winter.”

If you live in a region where temperatures regularly fall below 45 degrees and winter weather brings snow, sleet and ice to your roads, then you’ll want a good set of winter tires. What makes a winter tire special — and important — are the tread design and tread compound that work well in cold, slippery conditions. Good examples are the Yokohama iceGUARD iG53 (designed for passenger cars) and iceGUARD G075 (for crossovers, SUVs and minivans). Both are specifically designed to maintain traction during unfavorable conditions by diverting snow and moisture away from the tires to improve stability and prevent sliding. If winter road conditions are a problem where you live, don’t leave home without your winter tires.

Checking your tires’ air pressure and tread depth is also important during the winter because tire pressure naturally drops in colder temperatures and a shallower tread depth will worsen the traction of your tires. Check tire pressure at least once a month — this takes about five minutes. Consult the vehicle’s owner’s manual or placard on the driver’s door to determine proper tire pressure. Tire pressure should be checked when the tires are cold.

To check your tire tread, all you need is a penny. Insert the penny into your tire tread upside down. If you can still see Lincoln’s head, your tires are worn and it’s time for them to be replaced. Tires should be replaced when the tread is worn down to 2/32 of an inch, the lowest legal limit. It’s best to replace them before they reach 2/32 for optimal performance, especially in bad weather.

Other winterizing tips include:

1. Check that your windshield wipers are functioning properly to maximize visibility.

2. Fill up on de-icing windshield washer fluid to make sure you can clear your windshield.

3. Avoid using cruise control as it can increase your chances of losing control of the car.

4. Keep a small shovel in your trunk in case you get stuck or need to clear snow behind your wheels for better traction.

5. Pack a winter preparedness kit with a blanket, flashlight, batteries, gloves, water, boots, snacks, a battery-powered cell phone charger and a first aid kit.

6. If you drive a pick-up truck, add weight to the bed to keep your rear wheels anchored to the road.

More winter driving tips can be found at https://www.yokohamatire.com/tires-101/basic-information/automotive-tips/winter-driving-tips.

2019-12-12T05:01:00

(BPT) – Wondering what to cook for an upcoming holiday gathering? A beautiful beef roast is a feast for the eyes and the stomach, sure to impress guests of all ages. With a few expert tips and tricks, you’ll be sure to serve a perfectly cooked roast packed full of flavor.

Roasting tips from the pros

No matter which cut of beef you select to serve, there are some tried-and-true tricks chefs use to get the juiciest, most delicious results. The pros from Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. and the Beef Checkoff are the experts on all things beef and offer these tips for the perfect holiday roast.

Step 1: Use tools of the trade

Before you start, consider investing in an ovenproof meat thermometer. This is particularly important when roasting larger cuts. Unlike an instant-read thermometer, an ovenproof meat thermometer stays in the roast while cooking. This helps you avoid opening the oven unnecessarily and poking multiple holes in the roast, causing you to lose some of the juices.

Step 2: Select your cut

When cooking for four people or fewer, it is best to purchase a steak. For larger parties, a traditional bone-in roast is a popular option. A good rule of thumb is to purchase a roast that has one rib for every two people. To save time in the store, you can even call your meat counter in advance to order the exact size roast you need.

Step 3: Preheat and prep

It’s important to set your oven to the appropriate temperature for your roast. For a bone-in Ribeye roast, 350 F is generally recommended, but make sure to check your recipe for specifics. While your oven preheats, season the roast according to your recipe, then sear. While it’s possible to develop a crust on your roast through slow roasting, you may get tastier results by searing it over high heat at either the beginning or the end of the roasting time. Most recipes will specify whether and when to brown the meat, but when in doubt, a quick sear before popping the roast into the oven won’t hurt.

Step 4: Go low and slow

When placing the roast in your roasting pan, preferably on a roasting rack, you want to place the beef on the rack fat-side-up and bone side down (if your cut has bones). Using a rack improves air circulation and promotes even cooking. Once your roast is in the pan, you’ll want to insert your ovenproof meat thermometer with the tip centered in the thickest part of the roast, avoiding the bone, if the cut you select has one. Cook as recommended, being sure not to overshoot your target temperature as it will continue to rise after pulling the roast from the oven.

Cooking times vary depending on both the cut of meat and your desired doneness. For example, if you’re cooking a bone-in Ribeye Roast for four to six people at 350 F, you can plan for a cook time as short as 1 hr 45 min for medium rare, targeting an internal temperature of 135 F, or as long as 2 hr 45 min for medium, with an internal temperature of 145 F. For specific roasting time guidelines for a bone-in Ribeye Roast, as well as other cuts, you can visit www.beefitswhatsfordinner.com.

Step 5: Let it rest

Once you pull the roast from the oven, transfer it to a carving board and cover it loosely with aluminum foil (this is called tenting) and let it rest. It is important to let your roast rest so the juices have time to re-absorb into the meat ensuring a tender, juicy roast. Larger roasts need more time to rest, often as long as 15–20 minutes. Those few extra minutes provide a great opportunity to make an au jus from the reserved beef drippings and plate side dishes.

Step 6: Carve and serve

The most important tool for properly carving your roast is a sharp knife. And, if you’re using a meat fork to help carve, try not to pierce the roast to hold it in place. If you want to avoid this risk altogether, you can use the back of the fork instead or simply opt for tongs. If you have a rib roast, cut each slice along the rib bone. And remember to always cut across the grain for maximum tenderness.

2019-12-12T00:01:00

(BPT) – A new year provides many new opportunities to live your best life. If you want to advance your career, expand your friendships and even find love, there’s no better time to use technology to reach your goals in 2020 and beyond.

Research shows online networking and dating is incredibly effective. In fact, about 40% of American couples now meet online, according to Quartz. The first non-holiday Sunday in January is called Dating Sunday because it’s the busiest day of the year for online dating. Over 18 million messages were sent on the Bumble dating app alone on Dating Sunday 2019.

Bumble is a unique app for dating, friendship and networking because it flips the traditional: Women always make the first move. They’ve built their platform around kindness, respect and equality, with zero tolerance for hate, aggression or bullying. Users can block and report anyone who makes them uncomfortable or anyone whose behavior goes against their guidelines.

“The first step in making meaningful connections through a dating app is having a great profile,” says Clare O’Connor, Editorial Director at Bumble. “Whether you’re new to online dating or your profile simply needs a refresh, a few simple things will help make it attractive while representing your true self.”

O’Connor offers these simple tips for a great online dating profile:

1. Make your first photo stand out
Showing off your smile, your eyes and your whole face (without sunglasses or a filter) makes a positive first impression. Make sure it’s only you in this first photo. It’s great to include photos with your friends too, but you want your potential matches to know just who you are the first time they see you online.

2. Keep your highlight reel real
Your photos are all about showcasing slices of your actual life, especially the slices you’d like to share with someone. If you’re adventurous, show that off by including that great pic of you rock climbing. If your dog is the center of your world, include a cute snap of you and the pup. If you adore cooking, an action shot in the kitchen is sure to get noticed.

3. Less is not more
Don’t leave your profile blank! This is the opportunity to showcase your personality and let your next potential match get to know a little bit about you. Everyone loves a funny, unique profile. Remember to keep it positive! For guys who are looking for a date, asking a question in your profile that a woman can answer as her first message to you is always a good idea.

4. Show off your most unique self
Give specific examples or anecdotes that show your matches what sets you apart. Lots of people are fun, outgoing, adventurous, love to travel or enjoy being active. If you like to cook, what’s your favorite dish to make? Have you been to a great concert recently? What’s your favorite local spot when you need to unwind?

5. Ask a trusted friend for advice
Your friends (both men and women) can help you see things you might miss. Ask them how they might describe you, or the things about you that stand out the most. Allow your closest confidantes to take a look at your camera roll and help select some great photos, too. They can provide good insight into what showcases your best features.

Once your new profile is ready to go, enjoy making new connections. When you find someone you’d like to get to know better, remember that video chat is the modern first date. You can chat, place voice calls and even schedule video chats within the Bumble app, so there’s no need to exchange personal contact info right away. For more tips and to learn more, visit bumble.com.

2019-12-11T13:09:13

(BPT) – A recent report by the Bureau of Labor Statistics revealed that U.S. employment is projected to grow by 8.4 million jobs from 2018 to 2028. At the same time, employers are battling an ultra-competitive job market, in which candidates are being wooed by increased pay and enhanced medical benefits.

Today’s smartest employers are thinking more creatively about how to attract talented workers and encourage them to stay. Many are partnering with large landlords to include next-level amenities in their workspaces.

Today’s employers are focused on:

1. Transportation

A well-located workplace is a major selling point for attracting potential employees and retaining existing ones. Employers with a central location, easily accessible by public transportation, already have an advantage. For example, The Legacy Town Center office in Plano, Texas, boasts transit drop-off and pick-up at the building.

For environmentally minded employees who bike to work, secure bike storage is a real plus. The office tower at 201 Spear St. in San Francisco anticipates the needs of the area’s environmentally conscious workforce with bike storage and EV car charging stations, plus easy access to light rail.

Accenture Tower in Chicago sits above Ogilvie Transportation Center, one of the main suburban train stations connecting downtown Chicago to the suburbs, providing direct access to city trains, buses and expressways. The first two levels of the property are composed of 80,000 square feet of retail space, with more than 45 stores and restaurants.

2. Wellness

Beyond providing competitive healthcare plans, employers are seeking new ways to encourage and support employees’ health-related activities — a focus that contributes to less absenteeism and greater productivity. For example, Park Place Village in Leawood, Kansas, has massage therapy on-site for all of its tenants.

Many major office owners are adding state-of-the-art fitness centers. 3001 Washington Blvd. in Arlington, Virginia, features workout studios offering barre, yoga and HIIT performance classes in its eight-story, LEED Gold-certified Class A office building. And at Accenture Tower, the building includes a two-level fitness center spanning 14,000 square feet, with a basketball court, group exercise classes and new tenant lounge with air hockey, shuffleboard and wine lockers.

3. Convenience

For employees with busy schedules, it can be tough to find enough time in the day to take care of necessary errands. Workers are especially drawn to locales that provide day-to-day services everyone needs without even having to walk outside.

Some office buildings go a step beyond. For businesses at RBC Plaza in Minneapolis, employees can use the U.S. Postal Service, on-site bank, a sundry shop and even a shoe repair/shoe shine service. But it doesn’t stop there. Other services offered in the building include a car wash and detailing service, and private wine lockers. And in the Carillon office tower in Charlotte, North Carolina, there’s an on-site daycare for parents.

4. Ambiance

Beyond location and service-based amenities, today’s employees are increasingly demanding a workplace with a beautiful atmosphere, which often includes access to outdoor spaces. Building designers are taking note, providing more open spaces, skylights and/or atriums for a lighter, more welcoming work environment.

For example, The McEwen Building in the Cool Springs submarket of Nashville, Tennessee, offers employees and visitors an outdoor sitting area complete with a fountain and plush landscaping, while 3003 Washington Blvd. in Arlington, Virginia, has a rooftop terrace with stunning views of Washington, D.C.

5. Employee engagement

With Generation Z workers about to enter the workforce, today’s employers also understand the power of creating engagement within their team, especially among young professionals. Next-level office amenities can increase employee satisfaction and deepen their connection to their employer.

For instance, RBC Plaza in Minneapolis offers a billiards lounge, as well as a cafe and coffee shop, while Preston Commons in Dallas, Texas, and 201 Spear St. in San Francisco both have on-site bars, giving office workers places to unwind and congregate after work.

KBS, one of the largest owners of office buildings in the nation, has partnered with many of America’s companies to support recruitment and retention by buying well-located offices and infusing them with state-of-the-art amenities. To learn more, visit kbs.com.

2019-12-11T12:46:11

(BPT) – The holidays are a time to gather for food, friends and festivities. While everything may seem merry and bright, if you have asthma or allergies, this is when you need to be cautious. A season full of tradition and good cheer can come with hidden allergy triggers if you’re not aware and prepared.

The experts at the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology share the most common hidden holiday allergies you should be aware of:

1. Candles and fires: Although many people light candles to enhance the holiday atmosphere, scented candles can quickly trigger allergy and asthma symptoms, including headaches, watery eyes and aggravated noses. Wood-burning fireplaces, while stunning during the holidays, are also a trigger due to smoke. Consider flameless candles and an electric fireplace, which have the calming appearance, but no scent or smoke to make you cough or wheeze.

2. Trees and wreaths: Fresh fir trees and wreaths are beautiful, but some people have contact skin allergies to a substance called terpene, found in the sap of trees. What’s more, some live trees still have mold spores and pollen on them, which can cause nasal allergies to flare. Take time to rinse off live trees before you bring them in. If you have an artificial tree and decorations that you use every year, clean them to remove dust and potential mold.

3. Hugs and kisses: You enjoy seeing your friends and relatives during the holidays, but you may want to reconsider all the hugs and kisses, which can easily spread germs. Flu shots are available now, and it’s not too late to get yours. If you have asthma, it’s particularly important to wash your hands thoroughly and regularly. If you have an egg allergy you may have been told in the past not to get the flu shot. But years of studies have shown the vaccine is safe and does not contain enough egg protein to cause an allergic reaction, even in people with severe egg allergy.

4. Eats and treats: Holidays are a time to gather to enjoy delicious meals and tasty treats. If you have food allergies, be vigilant about knowing what’s inside each item. Some people are sensitive to even trace amounts of certain foods, and this can be particularly concerning for baked goods prepared in commercial kitchens. Always ask before you eat something new and be an advocate for your children if they suffer from allergies. When in doubt, if you have food allergies, it’s best to turn down a holiday treat with unknown ingredients.

5. Dust and dander: If you are allergic to indoor allergens like dust, mold and dander, you probably diligently clean your home. But that doesn’t mean the host of the party you’re attending does the same. Many of these triggers are invisible, so even a home that appears clean can cause that dreaded runny nose, sneezing and itchy eyes for allergy sufferers. If you’re attending a party or traveling to see friends, consider packing allergy medicine just in case you start to feel symptoms from triggers tugging at your good time.

Before your social calendar fills up, consider hosting a holiday event yourself. Even though entertaining takes work, it adds a level of control so you don’t have to worry about allergy concerns. You get to cook with foods your family can safely eat and decorate with flameless candles and other allergy-friendly decor. Plus, you know your house is free of Fido’s fur or hidden dust bunnies. If people offer to bring food, make sure they know of any allergy concerns. Or consider putting them in charge of other items, such as holiday napkins or paper plates.

Have questions about an existing or potential allergy for you or a loved one? Allergists are the best trained medical professionals to treat allergies and asthma, and can help you live the life you want. So if you need guidance on treating your symptoms, use the allergist locator at acaai.org/locate-an-allergist to find an allergist in your area.

2019-12-11T08:31:00

(BPT) – Boost any egg scramble bowl with one superfood ingredient.

2019-12-11T08:15:00

(BPT) – Winter is here — it’s time to layer on the warm clothes and stock up on the cold and flu essentials that keep you healthy during the colder months. But as you focus on winter wellness, it’s important to remember how oral care affects your overall health.

“Your mouth is the gateway to your digestive and respiratory tracts, so some of the bacteria that accumulates in your mouth may cause illness if you don’t take care of your teeth and gums,” says ARM & HAMMER^TM Toothpaste expert Dr. Derek Wallin, DDS.

Dr. Wallin shares his expert tips for maintaining proper oral care throughout the winter months:

1) Stock up on the essentials

The end of the year often involves house guests and lots of quality time with loved ones. Whether your family and friends are staying for a day or two, a great way to take care of them is to make sure you are stocked up on health items. While you’re picking up extra soap or shampoo, don’t forget floss, toothbrushes and toothpaste — your guests will thank you!

2) Be proactive after treating yourself

Beware of what you eat and drink even after the holidays have passed. The carbohydrates in pies, cookies, rolls and biscuits contribute to an overall acidic environment in your mouth, making teeth soft. These plaque acids wear down enamel and cause teeth to lose vital minerals and leave you prone to cavities. I recommend ARM & HAMMER Toothpastes because they carry the natural ingredient baking soda, which rapidly neutralizes the acidity and restores a more natural, balanced pH in your mouth to keep your teeth strong.

3) Don’t sleep on oral care

It’s easy to let certain things fall by the wayside when it’s cold outside. You might want to stay cozy in bed for a lazy weekend or lose track of your routine with a packed calendar of festivities. But no matter how tired you are, remember to prioritize your oral care routine. Floss and brush your teeth before you fall asleep; you will thank yourself in the morning.

4) Remove plaque … like a BOSS

I take great pride in knowing how to remove plaque, and even greater pride when my patients know how to do it, too. Think about brushing your teeth like sweeping under a cabinet. Allow the brush bristles to sweep under the gum line and also allow your toothpaste to deeply penetrate those hard-to-reach areas. It’s all about combining proper technique with an effective toothpaste.

5) Add whitening power

Remember, dark-colored foods stain teeth. A few of these culprits include pumpkin-spiced lattes (or coffee in general), red wine, beets and dark-colored berries, like cherries and blueberries. An effective whitening toothpaste like ARM & HAMMER Advance White — formulated with refined dental grade baking soda and peroxide to brighten and target tough set-in stains — is a great trick to keep your teeth shining all year long.

Oral care is a big part of keeping yourself healthy in the winter, so follow these tips to stay well and maintain a clean, beautiful smile. Visit ArmandHammer.com for more information.