Month: April 2020

2020-04-30T05:01:00

(BPT) – –

2020-04-30T08:43:00

(BPT) – After the snow and ice has melted away each spring, drivers and homeowners around the country are left with their aftermath — annoying and destructive potholes.

Millions of potholes in the U.S. wreak havoc on vehicles as they try to navigate around them on damaged roads and bridges, in parking lots and on driveways all over the country, leading to nearly a half million insurance claims each year.

Potholes can cause your vehicle to have serious alignment problems, bend your wheel rims and wreck your tires, as well as put your shocks and struts through the wringer — all leading to costly repair bills.

The worst thing is that it’s impossible to avoid potholes entirely as you go about your business every day, even when you’re driving on your own property.

While you can’t do anything but hope for repairs to get started soon on the roads you travel regularly, there is something you can do about your own driveway. Why not avoid further damage by making repairs to your driveway yourself? You’ll not only prevent problems with your vehicles, but you’ll keep your property looking in better shape all year round.

Permanently fixing your own driveway’s potholes is not difficult or expensive, as long as you have the right materials and know-how, whether your driveway is concrete or asphalt.

Here are the materials and steps you’ll need to complete your driveway repair.

Safety warning: Before working with any cementitious or asphalt-based products, always wear eye protection and gloves.

Steps for repairing asphalt potholes

• Square the pothole edges as much as possible using a chisel, hammer and shovel.
• Pour QPR High Performance Permanent Pavement Repair into the hole about 2 to 3 inches above the surrounding asphalt.
• Consolidate and compact the blacktop repair with a tamper until a firm surface is achieved.
• A trick to further compact the repair material is to place a piece of plywood over the patch, and then slowly drive back and forth over the plywood in a vehicle several times.

To watch an easy-to-follow video on how to repair your asphalt potholes, check out QPRUSA.com.

Steps for repairing concrete potholes

• Square pothole edges as much as possible using a chisel, hammer and shovel.
• Mix QUIKRETE 5000 Concrete Mix as directed on the package.
• Remove any debris from the pothole and apply concrete bonding adhesive with a brush.
• Pour concrete mix into the hole about one inch above the surrounding concrete.
• Pull a 2-­by­-4 over the surface in a sawing motion before using a wood float to smooth the surface.
• Texture the surface with a stiff-bristled brush or broom.
• Allow pothole repair to set for 48 hours before driving on surface.

For more tips, information and directions, including helpful how-­to videos on repairing damaged concrete surfaces, visit QUIKRETE.com.

2020-04-29T13:31:00

(BPT) – This Cinco de Mayo, try these at-home margaritas from Cointreau.

2020-04-29T12:01:00

(BPT) – Electricity is always there for us. From keeping the lights on to running important “background” tasks like maintaining a steady Wi-Fi signal, we’re often unaware of how electricity touches all aspects of our lives. That is, until something happens, like a severe storm hits and the power goes out.

And during an extended power interruption, life becomes disruptive to homeowners, especially the elderly, families with young children and those who work from home. Unexpected events remind us that it’s easy to take the systems and routines in our lives for granted. Situations such as these remind us of the importance of being proactive and prepared.

So, what will you do if a storm hits or the electrical grid fails and the lights go out? How will you get through a prolonged power outage? If you don’t have an answer for that, don’t panic. You have plenty of time to get ready.

Hurricane season begins June 1 and runs through Nov. 30, so now is the perfect time to take preventative measures, especially those homeowners who live along the Gulf Coast and Eastern Seaboard. For tips, visit hurricanes.gov/prepare.

To help you prepare and keep your family safe and comfortable during a power outage, keep these important tips handy from the power experts at KOHLER Generators.

Trim back trees or branches: During a storm, these can break and fall on electrical lines leading to your home. Before you start trimming away overhanging branches, consult with your local power company to ensure everyone’s safety. Never, ever touch a downed electrical line.

Invest in battery-powered lighting: Sure, we all make use of the light that comes with our smartphone. But you don’t want to rely on that as your lighting source during a power outage, or you’ll drain the battery. Head to your local hardware store and pick up two or three flashlights, along with a battery-powered lantern as a hands-free way to illuminate dark rooms. Keep plenty of extra batteries on hand.

Extinguish candles: Don’t use kerosene lamps, candles or anything that requires an open flame for lighting. These can cause a fire hazard.

Keep it charged: To keep your computers and smart devices working throughout the outage, purchase battery packs and power banks. This backup will let you maintain a connection to information, updates and loved ones.

Stay in the know: Bad weather can hit with little to no warning. That’s why it’s a good idea to pick up a weather radio. When a severe storm approaches, you’ll be alerted to take shelter.

Get a back-up power source: Consider investing in an automatic standby generator to power your home. A standby unit has the ability to power all your major systems and appliances, including a refrigerator, lights, heating and cooling systems, Wi-Fi router, sump pump and home security system. In fact, having a permanently installed generator connected to your home’s electrical system can be a lifesaver. Much like a central air conditioner, an automatic standby generator is housed outside, and runs on natural gas or liquid propane.

Standby generators from Kohler kick in automatically, usually in a matter of seconds, so everything in your home is back up and running even when a storm interrupts your source of power. And it has the capacity to keep going, as long as the outage lasts, because its powerful, industrial engine can handle heavy loads and is protected by a corrosion-resistant housing. You’ll also love the quiet operation and the ability to monitor and control the unit with a tablet or smartphone.

“An automatic standby generator provides great peace of mind because you’ll always have safe, reliable power during an outage — no matter how long it may last,” said Ed Del Grande, a home improvement expert and author. “When the lights go out in your neighborhood, you’ll be an oasis for your family, friends and neighbors in need.”

If you’d like to learn more about KOHLER Generators and how an automatic standby generator can be an important part of storm readiness, visit KOHLERGenerators.com.

2020-04-29T15:31:00

(BPT) – While you may not be able to travel to your favorite beach destination this spring, you can experience Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, through virtual experiences that bring the area’s popular beaches, attractions, activities and more to you. And those same features can help you plan for (and dream about) a Myrtle Beach vacation in the future.

This favorite spring destination is known for its 60 miles of sandy beaches, gorgeous resorts, exciting attractions and delicious seafood restaurants. But that’s not all it has to offer, and this season families are invited to virtually experience the wide variety of attractions within the charming Atlantic seaboard town through specially created online opportunities.

“While a lot of us may be at home, that doesn’t mean we can’t still see the world,” advises Emily Weaver on Popsugar.com. “Thanks to the internet, we’re now able to virtually tour museums, landmarks, cities and more — no passport or packing required. Bon voyage!”

With the help of a little technology, your imagination can take you straight to South Carolina’s top destination for fun, sun and surf. Thanks to the efforts of caring, creative people throughout the city, you can now virtually:

1. Imagine yourself taking a relaxing, balmy walk down a sugar-sand beach through the Ocean Drive live beach camera.

2. Immerse yourself in the sights (and often sounds) of 10 Myrtle Beach resorts through live webcams that show off some of their most appealing features and scenery.

3. Take a fascinating backstage tour of the Alabama Theatre, which regularly hosts live professional entertainers from across the nation. Then watch specially created video footage showcasing the cast of the critically acclaimed Carolina Opry Theater, now in its 35th season after successfully staging more than 9,000 performances.

4. Laugh at the antics of a group of African penguins through the live penguin cam at Ripley’s Aquarium, and check out its other live footage starring aquatic animals such as sharks, stingrays, hermit crabs and jellies.

5. Enjoy Facebook Live-sponsored entertainment from popular area restaurant the Dead Dog Saloon (and even tip your favorite acts, if you choose).

6. Engage yourself in completing a Myrtle Beach crossword puzzle, coloring pages and specially designed virtual jigsaw puzzles.

7. Add fun and excitement to your home schooling through educational opportunities offered by a number of fascinating local attractions. For example, the Myrtle Beach Art Museum posts compelling (and free) art classes and tutorials for kids as young as age 2. Myrtle Beach State Park and Huntington Beach State Park are hosting Facebook Live events to share wildlife and nature information.

Ready to get started with your virtual trip to Myrtle Beach, one of the nation’s most popular vacation destinations? Find a complete list of virtual experiences at VisitMyrtleBeach.com/blog and get an overview of the entire area at VisitMyrtleBeach.com.

2020-04-29T10:33:00

(BPT) – With travel plans put on hold, your wanderlust is growing daily. Although you may not be able to visit the places on your bucket list, it doesn’t mean you can’t create moments of joy inspired by these locals through delicious foods and sensational beverages. The trendiest wine of 2020 is rosé, making it easy for you to enjoy the flavors of the world from the comfort of your own home.

Consider these ideas to create a “travel in a glass” theme using world-renowned rosé wines and delicious pairings. Find these varieties and more inspiration at wine.com/drinkrose.

Eat, drink and be merry in France

Stop and smell the rosé by creating a French-inspired escape at home. Imagine walking down a quaint street to a cozy cafe and enjoying a glass of M. Chapoutier Cotes du Rhone Belleruche Rosé. Aromas of ripe strawberries and citrus fill the air and awaken the senses as you sip each silky mouthful. Pair with a classic French cheese board featuring Camembert and goat cheese along with accompaniments for the perfect start to your French escape. The Belleruche portfolio of wines also offers a red and white, each reflecting true French character, bringing simple, effortless sophistication to any occasion.

Next, prepare for the main event with a glass of Mathilde Chapoutier Cotes de Provence Rosé in hand. The delicious strawberry, grapefruit and apricot notes offer a round texture ideal for pairing with “bistronomic” cuisine — French foods found at charming bistros across the country, such as sautéed chicken with tarragon and coq au vin (which can be made in a slow cooker!).

Salut to health and happiness in Italy

Can’t go to Italy? Where there’s a will, there’s a rosé! Enjoy an Italian staycation that tempts the palate by starting with a glass of Feudi di San Gregorio Ros’ Aura, made in Campania, Italy. With a lively flavor bursting with the essence of fresh berries, it’s ideal as an aperitif or paired with grilled vegetables, white meat or fish.

Another Italian standout is the IL Poggione Brancato Rosato from Tuscany, a satisfying complement to authentic Italian cuisine. Fresh on the palate, this rosé has a core of perfumed cherries, spices and flowers, offering a crisp, pleasant roundness that pairs well with linguine with clams or ribollita, a Tuscan bread soup. Finish your trip to Italy by satisfying a sweet tooth with traditional tiramisu or panna cotta.

Enjoy a taste of sun-kissed California

A visit to California is all about enjoying the beautiful climate, stunning scenery and enchanting surroundings. Be inspired and “rosé the day away” West Coast-style with Sanford Rosé of Pinot Noir, made in Santa Barbara, California. This salmon-colored wine has enticing aromas of blood orange, wild strawberry and rose petals with fruitful flavors framed nicely by bright acidity and lingering minerality. Embracing the day is reason enough to enjoy a glass (sunhat or sunglasses optional).

“I drink Sanford Rosé when the mood strikes me. It could be anytime really,” says John Terlato, owner and vintner of Sanford Winery. “I serve it with frisée salad or with a perfectly prepared grilled cheese sandwich on brioche bread with thin sliced tomatoes. It’s also delicious with salmon served cold with dill mayonnaise.”

Terlato shares this recipe to serve with Sanford Rosé of Pinot Noir for a taste of California no matter where you live:

Poached Salmon with Dill Mayonnaise
Serves 4

Ingredients:

• 1 to 1 1/2 pounds wild salmon fillets, pin bones removed
• 1/2 cup dry rosé wine
• 1/2 cup water
• shallot, peeled and thinly sliced
• 5 sprigs of fresh dill
• 1 sprig of fresh Italian parsley
• Salt and pepper
• 1 tablespoon dill mayonnaise (see below)
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Lemon slices to garnish

Directions:

1. Season salmon with salt and pepper.
2. In a sauté pan place the wine, water, shallot and herbs.
3. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Place salmon in pan, skin side down and cover.
5. Poach 5 to 10 minutes or until desired doneness is achieved.
6. Remove from pan and chill in refrigerator.
7. Serve with dill mayonnaise made by mixing your favorite mayonnaise with a splash of lemon juice and dash of dill. Garnish with lemon wedge and pepper to taste.

2020-04-29T09:01:01

(BPT) – Like many of us, parents across the U.S. are wondering when they can resume the new normal. When will schools and daycares reopen? When will parks, pools and activities resume? And when is it safe to take my child to the dentist again?

During these difficult and challenging times, and as the leader in children’s oral health, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry is developing new precautions and protocols to ensure our nation’s children continue to receive the highest standard of care in a safe and secure environment.

“Now more than ever, we want our patient families to understand that dental care for children is a medical necessity,” says Dr. Kevin Donly, president, AAPD. “Adopting good oral health habits early, including taking your child for their first dental visit by age 1, will set our children up for a lifetime of healthy habits. Conversely, delaying children’s oral care routines can cause tooth decay, aka ’mouth monsters,’ possibly resulting in compromised health, development and quality of life.”

As families prepare to resume their normally scheduled pediatric dental appointments, Donly shares the following advice for parents and caregivers:

On maintaining oral health:

• If you have a question or if your child may have a dental emergency, reach out to your pediatric dentist right away. If your pediatric dental office is closed, consider connecting via phone, email or social media. It is extremely important that families visit their pediatric dentist if needed and avoid the often-overloaded emergency rooms.
• During these uncertain times, don’t forget about the basics. Help your children brush for two minutes, twice a day. Parents can make a game out of it by setting a timer or playing a song that lasts for two minutes while you brush together. Brushing together can show your children how to brush, how often and for how long.
• While we continue to follow stay-at-home orders, beware of around-the-clock snacking as bacteria can linger on the teeth and increase risk of tooth decay. And don’t be fooled by “healthy” snacks such as organic fruit chews or granola bars that are laced with added sugars. Encourage your children to drink water instead of juice, and limit snacking to mouth-friendly options like cheese, fresh fruit or pretzels.

On preparing to see your pediatric dentist again:

• First and foremost, if your child is not feeling well or has had a fever in the 24 hours before your scheduled visit, please stay home and re-schedule your appointment. Similarly, if the parent or caregiver escorting your child to the dentist has a fever or feels ill, please re-schedule your visit.
• Plan to arrive for your appointment on time. If you arrive early, please wait in your car or outside the office (when possible); many pediatric dentists will be re-evaluating office waiting rooms to minimize potential risk.
• Consider wearing a homemade mask to cover your and your child’s (2 years and above) mouth and nose.
• Wash your hands and your child’s hands immediately following your dental visit.
• Share your feedback with us. During these challenging times, we want to communicate with our patient families often to ensure they are feeling safe and getting questions answered.

Understanding the transition to reopen pediatric dental offices will look different from community to community based on state and local government recommendations, the AAPD reassures its patient families the organization will be updating safety guidelines to adapt to the new normal. This might include rearranging offices/patient rooms to follow social distancing recommendations, updating sanitation protocols and ensuring ample protective equipment is available for patients when needed.

For more information about children’s oral health or to find a pediatric dentist in your area, visit mychildrensteeth.org.

2020-04-29T09:07:00

(BPT) – While many homeowners love the unique charm and beauty that can only be found in an older home, the truth is that older houses present challenges to keeping everyone safe, especially little ones. For any house where children are being raised, or where they may spend a lot of time, it’s a good idea to take stock of some potential hazards — before they cause a danger to any infant or child.

Test for lead

Many houses built decades ago may contain lead not only in the paint, but also in the water pipes. You can have both your water and paint tested for lead. If lead is present, speak with a licensed contractor about ways to remove lead safely to protect everyone in your home.

Examine windows — including window coverings

Older windows can pose a number of risks to young children. Never place furniture such as a crib or anything that a child could climb on underneath a window. Installing strong window guards over any windows that could pose a threat to your child, not just in their bedroom, can give you peace of mind.

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, corded window coverings are one of the top five hidden hazards in the home. Older, corded window coverings such as blinds may have looped pull cords or accessible inner cords that pose a serious strangulation risk to small children.

The Window Covering Safety Council (WCSC) urges parents and caregivers to check corded window coverings for potential cord hazards and to replace them with today’s safer products. Government safety officials and the WCSC recommend that only cordless window treatments be used in homes where infants and young children live or regularly spend time. Tasseled pull cords also need to be as short as possible, to be well out of reach of children.

A new U.S. Safety Standard requires that all stock products be cordless or have inaccessible cords. So if you need to replace older window coverings with new ones, look for the “Best for Kids” certified label. Products with the Best for Kids label have gone through third-party testing and are designed for use in homes with young kids.

Consider heat sources

For any older home, heat sources such as radiators can pose a risk of burns. Space heaters used in chilly houses can also be dangerous around young children. Safely cover, insulate — or simply don’t use — any heat sources that could harm a young child.

Uneven floors and walls

Some old houses have irregular walls, uneven floors and less than straight or well-designed staircases. This can create the following difficulties for childproofing your home.

• Installing baby gates. If a baby gate relies on pressure to secure it, uneven floors, walls or banisters can make it far from secure. Instead, get the kind of baby gate that needs to be installed using secure hardware — and hire an expert if you’re not confident of your skills to get the job done safely.
• Stabilizing large furniture. Uneven floors make it hard to keep furniture like dressers or bookcases safe from curious crawlers. Recent reports of dressers and shelves falling on toddlers are alarming for any parent, so it’s best to bolt or anchor furniture securely to prevent accidents. When the floor is uneven, you may need to use shims beneath the furniture to help you get it as close to the wall as possible. Earthquake proof furniture straps are an option if it’s tough to align the furniture tightly enough to anchor to the wall or floor using anchor brackets.

Any house, old or new, can contain potential hazards for kids of all ages. While it may seem overwhelming to anticipate every possible danger spot, there are plenty of resources available to help you be prepared. Visit WindowCoverings.org for useful information on product safety, parenting tips, childproofing and more.