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New year, better you: 5 achievable goals for your 2023 resolutions

2022-12-23T07:31:00

(BPT) – A new year is just around the corner, so it’s time to brainstorm resolutions and goals for 2023. If you’ve made resolutions in the past and haven’t stuck to them, you might be discouraged from even trying to make one for the coming year. It’s likely that the goals you picked weren’t attainable or sustainable for your life.

Instead of making lofty promises that are unachievable, start with small, modest changes that you can accomplish and build upon in years to come. Not sure where to start? Check out these five achievable goals for 2023.

1. Learn or resume a hobby

If you don’t have a hobby or have let it go by the wayside, dedicate some time this year to doing something you enjoy. Hobbies aren’t just activities we do for fun. They can have huge mental and physical health benefits.

According to VeryWell Mind, enjoyable activities can help you reduce stress, lower blood pressure and combat depression. You don’t have to engage in your hobbies every day to reap the benefits. One study showed that engaging in a physical leisure activity for 20 minutes a week helped people feel less fatigued.

Whether you get back into knitting or playing guitar or pick up a new hobby like painting or ballroom dancing, you’re carving out time for yourself that can take your mind off the stresses of everyday life.

2. Move your body

This year, make it a goal to get your body moving. That doesn’t mean you have to exercise every day for hours at a time. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, adults need 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity each week. That may sound like a lot, but it breaks down to 30 minutes a day, five days a week.

Take it slow if you’re new to working out or it’s been a while since you’ve exercised. You can even break up 30 minutes of daily activity into smaller chunks. For example, you can do 10 minutes of brisk walking or aerobic exercises three times a day or 15 minutes twice a day. By breaking up your movement goal into smaller chunks, you can naturally find breaks throughout your day to get moving.

3. Invest in your health

If you want to live a long healthy life, you need to invest in your health. Nicole Avena, PhD, Associate Professor of Neuroscience, Mount Sinai School of Medicine and Author of Why Diets Fail says, “In addition to a healthy and balanced diet and getting an adequate amount of exercise, it’s important to cover all your bases like adding daily vitamins to your health regimen. Each person’s dietary needs will vary slightly. While most people can get enough from diet alone, others may need to take a supplement, and nowadays, there are many vitamin options for men and women of all ages.”

To ensure that you receive essential nutrients, consider taking a daily multivitamin like vitafusion MultiVites which is an excellent source of 12 vitamins and minerals. Offering a selection of multivitamin gummies to support the consumer’s unique needs, vitafusion is America’s #1 adult gummy vitamin brand and the only gummy vitamin brand with a fusion of natural fruit flavors. To learn more, visit vitafusion.com.

4. Mindfulness

You’ve probably heard about mindfulness, but do you know what it is and its benefits? Simply put, mindfulness is being aware and fully present in your body, mind and environment. According to the National Institutes of Health, practicing mindfulness can have several positive impacts on your health and well-being, including reducing anxiety and depression, lowering blood pressure and improving sleep.

A popular way to practice mindfulness is meditation, but it’s not the only way. You can practice breathing or grounding exercises, go on a walk or take stock of how your body is feeling in the present moment. Mindfulness practices can be short or long, but to start, you can carve out five minutes a day in the morning or at night to get in touch with your awareness.

5. Improve your finances

A common New Year’s resolution is to be better about saving and spending. According to the American Psychological Association (APA), 72% of adults report feeling stressed about money at least some of the time. While there isn’t a one-size-fits-all plan for improving your financial well-being, there are simple ways to assess your finances and target areas for improvement.

In January, track all your income and expenses. You can do this by using an expense sheet, or you can download an app to make things easier. Once you know where your money is coming from and where it’s going, you can identify areas where you could be spending less and saving more and set financial goals for the year.

Small changes can add up quickly and turn into life-long habits. Using these five tips, you can start the year on the right foot and invest in yourself now and for years to come.

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Kitchen and home design trends poised for popularity in 2023

2022-12-22T23:01:00

(BPT) – House Beautiful’s Whole Home is back for its fifth year, loaded with modern conveniences and timeless charm. Located in the Buckhead neighborhood of Atlanta, this home marks the first time the project has featured renovating an existing property.

If you’re planning to build or renovate in 2023, you can find inspiration from this elevated modern Tudor that focuses on living better at home. Keeping that in mind, two of the most important spaces in a home for ease of modern living are the kitchen and the owner’s suite.

Kitchen: English vibes and upscale appliances

Indianapolis-based designer Whitney Parkinson took a traditional approach to the kitchen remodel, adding English flair with the high-end chef in mind. The space features warm woods, quartz countertops and antiqued mirror tile that make this brand new kitchen feel like it’s been there forever.

Featuring a number of award-winning Signature Kitchen Suite appliances, the kitchen and entertaining spaces are filled with technology and smart organization. The oversized eat-in kitchen features the first-of-its-kind 48-inch built-in French Door Refrigerator with a unique combination of precise preservation technology and features, including a dual compressor system with exceptional capacity and functionality in a sleek, innovative design.

Offering several unique design features, the refrigerator can elevate the overall aesthetic of any kitchen and is available in stainless steel and panel-ready options. Its purposeful design offers one of the most versatile and larger width interiors in the industry with a total capacity of 26 cubic feet, Lift and Go drawers, fully adjustable door bins and LED lighting that is hidden away and focused on the food. The WiFi-connected unit includes a Dual Ice Maker with slow-melting, spherical Craft Ice to elevate beverages of all kinds.

Parkinson also selected the Signature Kitchen Suite 48-inch Dual-Fuel Pro Range, the first range on the market with built-in sous vide functionality — in addition to induction and gas, all on the same cooking surface, along with two ovens below. Adjacent to the kitchen is a walk-in scullery and pantry, featuring the ultimate chef’s tool — the wall oven with Speed Cook, steam-combi, microwave, convection, sous vide and broil — and the advanced PowerSteam ENERGY STAR certified dishwasher, marrying high efficiency, high performance and high style.

Owner’s suite: Walk-in closets and laundry care

One of the primary suite’s walk-in closets features the stylish, unique LG STUDIO Styler clothing care system that refreshes, deodorizes and sanitizes clothing with the gentle power of steam. This appliance takes fabric care to the next level with increased capacity for up to five hangers along with a pants press in the door, and an exclusive black tinted mirror for a full-length reflection.

Also featured in the primary suite and upstairs laundry room is the ENERGY STAR certified LG STUDIO WashTower, a single-unit vertical laundry solution that takes up half the floor space without sacrificing capacity. The smart design features an industry-first Center Controlpanel that offers convenient access to controls (no step stool needed). Plus, its built-in intelligence takes out the guesswork thanks to AI technology that selects optimal washing and drying settings for each load to deliver the best in fabric care.

To explore these rooms and learn more about the appliances and other features, visit HouseBeautiful.com.

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How to Pick a Steak Based on Your Party Size

2022-12-22T13:11:00

(BPT) – Love to entertain, but never too sure about the best options to delight and satisfy your dinner guests? Here is an easy guide, courtesy of Organic Prairie — an independent co-op of organic family farms — to help you pick the perfect cuts of steak to prepare, and which ones are best suited for exactly the kind of gathering you’re planning — using the highest quality organic meat.

1. For an intimate gathering

If you’ve invited one other couple or just a friend or two over for a holiday dinner, tender, melt-in-your-mouth Filet Mignon is the perfect choice. It’s delicious and elegant, and you can serve each person their own filet, so everyone can choose exactly how they want their meat cooked. A little herbed butter is all you need to bring out the best flavor of this cut!

This type of steak usually steals the show, so you can prepare a simple side or two to accompany this dish. One suggestion is to warm up a crusty baguette and toss a festive salad with a few garnishes like toasted nuts, plus pomegranate arils, mandarin oranges or dried cranberries for a colorful, seasonal touch.

2. Now it’s a party

For a larger dinner party, such as 8–10 people, Ribeye Steaks are a great option to serve. Because this cut of meat has a higher fat content, ribeye steaks tend to have a little more flavor and can be easily seasoned using salt and pepper. Just be sure to rest the meat for about five minutes after cooking, so the steaks will retain their flavorful juices when you’re ready to serve. These steaks are easy to prepare and will be sure to impress with their rich flavor!

3. A New York state of mind

Similar to the ribeye, Premium New York Strip Steaks are a fantastic option to satisfy larger gatherings of 8–10 people, it just depends on which cut of meat you prefer. A New York Strip is a leaner cut of meat with less fat, and can be a bit tougher in texture than Ribeye. However, strip steaks are a delicious and popular cut of meat that pair well with sides such as baked potatoes and green salad for a classic meal everyone will love!

Pro tip: If you want to up your steak game, strip steaks are a great choice if you want to grill. Snow grilling, anyone? Firing up the grill — even in the winter — will bring a little extra “wow” to your next dinner party.

4. Steak for appetizers? Yes, please!

If you have a larger crowd and are looking for hearty and tasty appetizers for your next holiday gathering, Tenderloin Steak Tips are an easy, bite-sized offering to prepare. You can even use them to create steak kabobs: Alternate steak tips on skewers with colorful veggies — onions, bell peppers, Brussels sprouts and even pineapple! — to delight your guests.

Or you can slice up top sirloin steaks to make this delicious and easy recipe:

Garlic Steak Crostini

Servings: 20 pieces. Prep time: 25 minutes. Cook time: 15 minutes.

Ingredients

16 ounces Organic Prairie Top Sirloin Steaks
Juice of 1 lemon
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
1 to 2 baguettes, depending on size
4 tablespoons Organic Valley Salted Butter, softened
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons organic extra virgin olive oil
Sea salt
Black pepper
1/2 cup spinach leaves
2 ounces Organic Valley Blue Cheese Crumbles
Chives, diced

Directions

1. Pat steak dry with a paper towel and add to a shallow dish.
2. In small bowl, add lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce, and mix together. Pour over the top of the steaks.
3. Let rest for 15-20 minutes, until steaks are at room temperature.
4. Preheat oven to 425 degrees F.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Cut baguette into 1/2-inch slices on a diagonal. You’ll need 20 pieces total. Place on the prepared baking sheet.
7. In small bowl, add butter and garlic and stir to combine completely. Using butter knife, spread garlic butter onto each piece of bread and place back on baking sheet.
8. Heat olive oil in cast iron skillet over high heat.
9. Generously salt and pepper the steaks on each side.
10. Cook steaks in skillet about 2 minutes each side, searing them until brown on each side and red in the middle. Immediately transfer the skillet to the oven and bake 6-8 minutes, until the steak is 130-140 F for medium-rare (or cooked to your liking).
11. Add garlic bread to the oven and bake 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.
12. Remove steak from oven and let rest 5 minutes before cutting. Slice steak into 1/2-inch-thick strips.
13. Place 1-2 spinach leaves on top of garlic bread, add steak strip on top, top with crumbled blue cheese and chopped chives. Serve immediately.

5. For a fancier occasion

Finally, if you’re serving steak for a celebration — like a New Year’s Eve dinner — Beef Tenderloin Steak is known as one of the most tender cuts of beef, perfect for a fancier occasion. This juicy and flavorful steak lends well to pan searing and finishing in the oven. Pro tip: Plan on 6–8 ounces of meat per person when you’re planning to serve up steak as the main course. Depending on the number of sides, you can adjust the amount of steak per person. Serve with roasted vegetables, winter squash and comforting mashed or scalloped potatoes for a hearty celebration at year’s end.

Looking for recipe ideas and flavorful organic products to serve at your next party? Visit OrganicPrairie.com.

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Where is application fraud on the rise? Check out the ‘Treacherous 20’ cities

2022-12-22T13:48:08

(BPT) – Evictions have been front-page news during the pandemic. At the start of the pandemic, the National Low Income Housing Coalition estimated that without assistance, 30 to 40 million Americans would be in danger of eviction by the end of that year. It’s a heart-wrenching situation, which was largely avoided through widespread eviction moratoriums around the country.

But there is another side to the eviction crisis: Criminals actively trying to get into apartments they have no ability (nor intention) to pay for. Their modus operandi is to submit fake pay stubs and bank statements to convince landlords they have the means required to afford the rent.

One in eight paystubs or bank statements submitted to apartment owners are fake today. Fraudsters submitted more than 10 million fake financial documents last year. It is called application fraud, and experts estimate that this crime accounts for one in four of all evictions.

Snappt, a business with expertise in spotting fake financial documentation, has scanned several million pay stubs and bank statements. Based on a deep analysis of these documents, they have released their “Treacherous 20” list — the list of the top 20 major metropolitan areas by application fraud rate.

The Snappt Treacherous 20

The top 20 major metropolitan areas by application fraud rate:

1) Atlanta – 17.9%
2) Houston – 16.2%
3) Dallas/Fort Worth – 13.2%
4) Charlotte – 11.7%
5) Phoenix – 11.2%
6) Los Angeles – 10.8%
7) Tampa/St. Petersburg – 10.4%
8) Miami – 10.0%
9) St. Louis – 9.5%
10) Minneapolis/St. Paul – 9.2%
11) Chicago – 8.9%
12) Orlando – 8.5%
13) Las Vegas – 8.2%
14) Detroit – 8.0%
15) Philadelphia – 7.9%
16) Southern California Inland Empire (Riverside, Ontario) – 7.9%
17) Sacramento – 7.4%
18) Washington, DC – 6.6%
19) New York/New Jersey – 6.1%
20) Denver – 6.0%

Note that the eviction rates — which are often driven by application fraud — ran as high as one in nine for the Treacherous 20. The average eviction rate was 4.83%, nearly double the national average of 2.6%. In Atlanta, property managers are seeing fake paystubs or bank statements every fifth or sixth applicant. Houston and Dallas were not far behind.

Drivers of application fraud

There are many drivers of application fraud, but rent increases and unemployment stick out. Many of the Treacherous 20 show extreme movement along these drivers.

  • Increasing rent. Higher rents make it more difficult to qualify. This in turn causes more people to turn to application fraud. Annual rent increases as high as 29.5% show up on the list (Tampa/St. Petersburg). In fact, nearly half showed double-digit rent increases in 2022.
  • Unemployment. Unemployment makes it impossible to qualify for an apartment. This drives applicants to fraudulently alter bank statements and pay stubs. Unemployment rates were as high as 5.7% on the list, well above the national average of 3.8%. In fact, half of the metro areas on the list have unemployment rates at or above the national average.

A post-pandemic world

The pandemic was tough for everyone. While eviction moratoriums kept many renters safe, owners faced high losses. And, as application fraud soars, the risk to owners is getting even higher. Solutions like Snappt help protect landlords.

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Color – The Key to an Exterior Home Refresh

2022-12-22T08:01:00

(BPT) – From the paint on your front door to the pillows on your porch swing, your home’s exterior provides a canvas for colorfully expressing your style. But a big opportunity to leverage the power of color is often overlooked. Representing as much as 40% or even more of a home’s exterior, your home’s roof not only protects against the elements but can serve as a defining design element—particularly when color is considered.1

Today’s shingle colors go well beyond conventional shades of gray, brown and black. For example, new color palettes in the Owens Corning TruDefinition® Duration® Designer Shingle range include a rich, sensory blend of hues evoking nature’s elements, food and libations, and textiles ranging from leather to metallics. Paired with other exterior elements like paint, siding, landscaping and lighting, roof shingles can pull together a vibe reflecting diverse personal styles.

A good example of this versatility can be seen in Midnight Plum, the 2023 Shingle Color of the Year. Inviting and intriguing, the shingle blends inky blues with regal violet shades and elegant touches of silver to achieve a hue that is distinctive yet versatile. Before you say, “my home’s roof can’t do purple,” let’s look at three examples of how Midnight Plum complements different exterior styles.

Modern Farmhouse. A curated style board available at OwensCorning.com reinvents the familiarity of Farmhouse style. The design board sets shades of charcoals against a rolling green landscape, bringing an element of edginess to traditional design. A subtle hint of lilac softens the look and enhances the violet undertones in the shingle.

Traditional. Like coming home, the traditional style feels classic and welcoming. Set against the airy brightness of a pop of coral, Midnight Plum’s elegant purple tones bring an optimistic blush to the exterior. Combining clean, time-honored shades of blue and gray, Midnight Plum brings a current day accent to a look firmly grounded in tradition. Homeowners can find more ideas to inspire their own take on traditional style with a curated style board for traditional homes on the Owens Corning site.

California Bungalow. Location doesn’t limit this look named for the American Craftsman style that was nearly exclusive to California in the 1920s and ‘30s. The sloping roof of the bungalow provides a ready canvas for Midnight Plum to bring a cozy contrast to mellow neutrals and sweet purples. An inspiring style board shows how Midnight Plum complements the stone, tile and landscaping that make the California Bungalow style both elegant and homey.

Along with curated style boards, Owens Corning offers other color tools to help inspire your home’s exterior. For example, the Design EyeQ® visualization software allows you to upload a picture of your home and virtually “try on” new roof colors. And calling 1-800-GET-PINK allows you to order free color pairing brochures.

Spotlighting Style

While your home’s roof is an ideal focal point for a color refresh, other elements also support beautiful exteriors. Light fixtures, landscaping and even the color of your porch furniture can all complement a home’s style. Similar to fashion, exterior color trends are always evolving. With versatility in mind, Owens Corning shingles are infused with a dimensional blend of colors to coordinate easily with exterior updates.

While fashion and design trends can come and go, the ultimate vote of confidence when it comes to a home’s style comes from homeowners. Since 2018, Owens Corning has been awarded the Women’s Choice Award®, as America’s most recommended roofing material brand.

Explore and get inspired by a range of shingle and color pairings at www.roofingfashioncolors.com.

1 Roofing & Home Value Research, online survey of female homeowners and real estate professionals conducted by Repass Research, October 31 thru November 9, 2016.

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Half of Men Above Age 60 Experience Symptoms of Enlarged Prostate(1) – This Minimally Invasive Option May Help

2022-12-22T15:57:00

(BPT) – Sal Ciresi (left) and his wife Carol at Arches National Park in Utah*

As an anesthetist, Sal Ciresi spends his days in and out of the operating room and is unable to take breaks during procedures that can last hours. When urges of frequent urination began interfering with his work, he tried crossing his legs and limiting his water intake so he wouldn’t have to go as often.

Away from the operating room, Sal found himself strategizing about how far he could be from a bathroom at social events or while traveling with his grandkids. After more than three years with these symptoms of an enlarged prostate – also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) – the condition became unbearable and nearly prevented him from doing his work.

The prostate is a walnut-sized gland in the male pelvis and surrounding urethra.[2] As men age, the prostate can grow from the size of a walnut to about the size of a lemon.[1] An enlarged prostate becomes very common as men age and affects 50% of men by age 60.1 While non-cancerous, the condition can cause frustrating symptoms such as waking up several times a night to urinate, a weak or interrupted stream, feeling a sudden urge to go and lack of control over urination – which can disrupt daily activities.[3]

“I was in denial about my condition,” recalled Sal. “As someone who works in health care, I knew that treating an enlarged prostate could be an invasive process with treatment-associated risks. While I was eager to find relief, I wanted to avoid the risks of surgery.”

The best treatment option for each patient with enlarged prostate may depend on a range of factors, including the amount of discomfort, age, health, the size of the prostate and post-procedure expectations.[3] After receiving a diagnosis, Sal tried medication first for his symptoms but began experiencing side effects.[4] One day, he heard a radio commercial for Rezūm™ Water Vapor Therapy, a minimally invasive procedure to treat an enlarged prostate, not just the symptoms.[5] The in-office procedure uses water vapor to reduce the size of the prostate and provides lasting symptom relief, while preserving sexual function.[6] The procedure typically takes place during one doctor’s office visit and does not require general anesthesia.[6]

Sal scheduled a follow up appointment with his urologist, who evaluated him for Rezūm Therapy. Two weeks later, he had the minimally invasive procedure. Within a few weeks, Sal’s symptoms were finally under control.

“After trying medication without relief, I was excited about trying a different option with the Rezūm procedure,” said Sal. “While it was more involved than just taking a pill, I found the relief I was looking for and got rid of many of the daily limitations I was living with.”**

These days, Sal finds he is living a life where he feels more in control, without being on the constant search for a restroom or places to stop when traveling. To learn more about the symptoms of BPH and to speak with a doctor in your area about treatment options, including Rezūm Water Vapor Therapy, visit www.Rezum.com.

Most patients report relatively minor discomfort during the procedure. As a minimally invasive procedure, Rezūm Therapy has demonstrated fewer side effects compared to those typically seen with surgical therapies. While all cases are different, potential side effects associated with Rezūm Water Vapor Therapy may include, but are not limited to, painful or frequent urination, blood in the urine or semen, decrease in ejaculatory volume, urinary tract infection (UTI), inability to urinate or completely empty the bladder and urgent need to urinate. These side effects are typically mild to moderate and usually resolve within a few weeks, but there is a possibility some of these effects may continue for longer periods of time. Please talk with your doctor about the risks and benefits associated with Rezūm Therapy. A complete list of side effects associated with Rezūm Water Vapor Therapy is available here: https://www.rezum.com/what-is-rezum/risks.html.

Results from case studies are not necessarily predictive of results in other cases. Results in other cases may vary.

[1] Harvard Health. The growing problem of an enlarged prostate gland. Available at: https://www.health.harvard.edu/mens-health/the-growing-problem-of-an-enlarged-prostate-gland. Accessed October 2022.

[2] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. What is Prostate Cancer? Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/prostate/basic_info/what-is-prostate-cancer.htm#:~:text=The%20prostate%20is%20located%20just,up%20a%20part%20of%20semen. Accessed October 2022.

[3] Mayo Clinic. Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/benign-prostatic-hyperplasia/symptoms-causes/syc-20370087. Accessed October 2022.

[4] WebMD. Managing Sexual Concerns if You Have BPH. Available at: https://www.webmd.com/men/prostate-enlargement-bph/features/managing-sexual-concerns-if-you-have-bph. Accessed December 2022.

[5] Westwood J, Geraghty R, Jones P, et al. Rezum: a new transurethral water vapour therapy for benign prostatic hyperplasia. Ther Adv Urol. 2018 Nov;10(11):327–333.

[6] McVary KT, Gittelman MC, Goldberg KA, et al. Final 5-year outcomes of the multicenter randomized sham-controlled trial of Rezūm water vapor thermal therapy for treatment of moderate-to-severe lower urinary tract symptoms secondary to benign prostatic hyperplasia. J Urol. 2021 Sep;206(3):715-24.

*Image provided courtesy of Sal Ciresi

**Patient experience varies. Speak with your doctor as individual recovery varies. Experience may not be representative of all cases.

Caution: U.S. Federal law restricts this device to sale by or on the order of a physician.

All trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

©2022 Boston Scientific Corporation or its affiliates. All rights reserved. URO-1469603-AA DEC 2022

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How the gears shift between generations of drivers

2022-12-22T09:01:00

(BPT) – From younger drivers blasting music, to older drivers with their hands on “ten” and “two,” it’s no secret that with each new generation comes a shift in values, beliefs and opinions. Those generational differences shape everything from travel plans to spending habits.

With Gen Z being the latest generation to be of driving age, recent data from Hankook Tire reveals how different generations of drivers simply do things differently. Here is a look at four differences between younger drivers and those who have some miles behind them.

1. Younger generations steer toward saving a dollar or two.

High prices have younger drivers seeking opportunities to lower car care costs, even if that means doing some of the work themselves. Nearly half of Millennials and Gen Z said they would conduct vehicle maintenance themselves (48%) or switch service locations (45%) in order to save money.

In fact, Hankook found that Millennials are most likely to perform their own car maintenance to save money, whereas Boomers are least likely to do so. Older generations would rather take their cars into repair shops, regardless of cost.

2. Almost everyone will go the distance to save money on gas.

With the high cost of gas, 86% of people in the survey said they would be willing to drive up to 20 minutes to save at the pump. And though many surveys show that overall, younger generations drive less than older generations, they will drive further to save the extra buck. According to Hankook, about 1 in 5 Gen Z drivers (21%) and Millennial drivers (19%) are willing to drive more than 20 minutes to save on gas.

In addition to going the extra mile for gas, 11% of Gen Z responders and 18% of Millennials will turn to public transportation, walking, biking or ride share apps to save on driving costs.

3. EVs are the way of the future.

With gas prices top of mind, another difference between generations is how they feel about EVs and how likely they are to purchase one. While nearly half (46%) of Americans expect to purchase or lease an EV within the next five years, intent is even higher among Millennials (60%) and Gen X (44%) drivers. Only 30% of Boomers noted the same.

4. Younger generations are most likely to road trip.

While post-pandemic travel intent continues to trend upwards overall, there are still some generational differences in who is packing their bags — especially around the holidays. Hankook’s latest survey found 44% of Millennials plan to travel by car before the end of the year, compared to 29% of Boomers.

Part of the reason for less holiday travel could also be financially motivated — Deloitte’s research reveals older generations are shying away from travel in order to save money. In fact, 37% of those surveyed by Deloitte cited financial concerns as their top reason for not traveling this year.

In short, each generation packs different expectations when they get behind the wheel. Regardless of what those may be, it is clear that generational behaviors are going to have an outstanding impact on the road ahead.

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New year, new financial goals: 5 tips and tools to improve your financial health in 2023

2022-12-22T08:01:00

(BPT) – In no time, we’ll say goodbye to 2022 and begin a new year. This means everyone will have the chance to reflect on, restart and even reset their goals from the previous year. Many may be looking to start fresh on their financial habits.

However, you don’t have to wait for the new year to improve your finances. Check out these five tools available within your Chase Mobile Banking app to help you start the new year on a strong financial foot.

1. Create a budget

It’s never too early to think about your financial goals for the year ahead. Creating a budget is one of the best ways to define your goals and stay on track. To get started now, you can find, download and print a budget work sheet, or you can use a digital one like the one available on Chase.com/FinancialGoals.

Chase customers can also find the Budget tool on their app when they navigate through the Plan and Track feature to create and stick to a budget. This tool offers in-depth, customized views that help you track what you’ve bought to prevent overspending and you can find more information on chase.com/mobile.

2. Know where your money is going

It can be difficult to know what to cut back on if you don’t know how you’re spending your money. Start the year off right with an overarching view of your past spending to keep you on track for the year ahead.

Digital tools like Chase’s Snapshot feature provide daily insights into your spending, including which categories you’re spending in the most, to keep you aware of where your money is going.

3. Set savings goals

The new year is the perfect time to start fresh and reset your goals. Look at your expenses and set a savings goal for 2023. Consider using automated savings tools, like Chase Autosave, to set and reach a savings goal.

It works by making automatic transfers from your Chase checking account to your savings account, so you can save without thinking about it, and you can name your goal, start with any amount you choose, adjust the frequency and edit or pause when you need to. You can even start planning and saving now for next year’s holiday expenses.

4. Monitor your credit score

If you’re saving for a new car or hoping to leap into homeownership in 2023, your credit health will be key. However, it can be challenging to monitor your credit score without the proper tools. Credit Journey allows users to check their score without impacting their credit and be alerted to identity theft and fraud attempts.

Credit Journey allows you to manage your credit score with confidence. This digital tool not only tracks your score but also helps you learn how to build it. You can see your score update weekly, see what’s changed, view security notifications and access support 24/7. Best of all, it’s free for everyone to use — not just Chase customers.

5. Don’t spend it all at once

Bigger ticket items, like electronics or jewelry, can quickly add up. For larger purchases in the new year, consider using a payment plan to help you manage costs over time.

Many banks are now offering installment payment options right from their apps. For example, with My Chase Plan, eligible credit card holders can pay off their purchases over time in fixed monthly payments, so you can cover all the must-have items without breaking the bank.

Using these five tips, you can start your new year off right with solid financial tools to help you meet your financial goals. To learn more, visit Chase.com/Mobile.

Bank deposit accounts, such as checking and savings, are subject to approval. Chase Mobile® app is available for select mobile devices. Message and data rates may apply. Deposit products provided by JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. Member FDIC.

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5 Ways to Up Your Charcuterie Game This Holiday Season with Snack Factory Pretzel Crisps

2022-12-20T07:01:00

(BPT) – ‘Tis the season for charcuterie boards and holiday hosting — and Snack Factory® Pretzel Crisps, the connoisseurs of charcuterie, are here to help you be the host with the most!

From butter boards to rainbow boards, and everything in between, Snack Factory® Pretzel Crisps are at the heart of every charcuterie board trend (charcu-trend, if you will). That’s why this holiday season, the thin, crisp pretzel brand is declaring the next charcu-trend — Dip Boards.

Perfect for every palate and every guest, Dip Boards featuring Snack Factory® Pretzel Crisps are the most delicious company this holiday season. From Caramelized Onion dip and Pretzel Crisps Sea Salt + Black Pepper, to Spicy Feta and Pretzel Crisps Original, or Hummus and Pretzel Crisps Everything, Pretzel Crisps have never met a dip they can’t pair with.

Check out these five tips to create the perfect Dip Board and elevate your holiday party:

1. Don’t Be Afraid to Mingle: Who says a Dip Board needs to stick to one type of dip? Not us! From spicy to sweet, to sweet and savory, a Dip Board is the perfect opportunity to expand your palate. So, when building your Dip Board, try putting a Tzatziki dip alongside Pretzel Crisps Garlic Parmesan, next to a spicy Three-Cheese Queso with Pretzel Crisps Everything, and artichoke dip with Pretzel Crisps Original.

2. It’s All About the Base: We’ve all been there — indulging in your favorite dip, then bam it spills all over yourself, just when everyone is watching. Make sure to build a strong base for your Dip Board with Snack Factory® Pretzel Crisps — with a thin salty crunch but still sturdy enough to scoop and spread, they will save you from (most) awkward charcuterie board encounters.

3. Prep for the Restock in Advance: Let’s be honest — the food is the most delicious company at any holiday gathering. As a host, avoid having to constantly restock your Dip Board throughout the evening by preparing for the second — or third — round in advance. Have your extra dips, larger Snack Factory® Pretzel Crisp Party Size 14oz bags and serving spoons conveniently located near your board so you can quickly restock without a pause in conversation.

4. Let It Shine: The holidays are a time for friends, friends of friends, family, extended family, neighbors and the “who are yous” to gather. Let your Dip Board be a conversation starter by incorporating eye-popping colors, designs (anyone heard of a Dip Board tree?) and unexpected flavors. While it may not start the most riveting conversation, it’s a great way to fill in an awkward silence or two.

5. Perfect Pairings: There’s something magical about everything pairing perfectly. With so many flavor profiles possible on a Dip Board, why not take it up a notch and pair the flavors of your Dip Board with a festive cocktail (or mocktail)? Try a sweet Dip Board pairing chocolate chip cookie dough dip with White Crème Peppermint Pretzel Crisps and a dry glass of Sauvignon Blanc, or a spicy Dip Board with a Mulled Apple Cider for the ultimate taste bud experience.

To get in on the next charcu-trend, Snack Factory® Pretzel Crisps is unveiling a NEW Extendable Charcuterie Board for a limited-time only — a seven-foot-long board to enjoy all of the festive charcu-trends. For a chance to win the Snack Factory® Pretzel Crisps Extendable Charcuterie Board, consumers can follow @SnackFactory and tag their next party guests on the post HERE. Full rules and regulations for the sweepstakes can be found here.

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My Journey with Schizophrenia: Finding Support and Treatment

2022-12-21T08:01:00

(BPT) – Sponsored by Alkermes, Inc.

The story you are about to read may not be representative of all people living with schizophrenia. The opinions expressed here are those of Keira, a person living with schizophrenia, and are not a substitute for medical advice or judgement. Always talk to your doctor.

For most of my young adult life, I lived in a perpetual state of noise.

I often heard voices others couldn’t, avoided eye contact, experienced unstable moods, and saw increasingly vivid hallucinations. Sometimes I would talk and nothing I said would make sense. Looking back, I can see that those were my signs that I might be living with a mental health condition.

I remember I had a bad breakdown my senior year of high school and was hospitalized for the first time. During this experience, I wasn’t completely open and honest with the nurses and doctors about my symptoms because the voices in my head told me not to talk about them and I was scared.

For the next several years I experienced a repeated pattern of worsening symptoms, followed by hospitalization and treatment, and then a recovery period. When I was deep in my illness, I did not want to be seen or come in close contact with others, preferring to avoid people all together. After numerous hospitalizations, I finally decided to be more open and honest about what I was experiencing in order to get the help I needed.

I was formally diagnosed with schizophrenia, a serious mental health condition that affects about 1.1% of the U.S. population, by a healthcare provider.1 I learned from my doctor that symptoms typically begin in early adulthood and can include hallucinations, delusions, difficulty functioning normally, trouble focusing and behavior associated with psychosis.2,3 Most people living with schizophrenia require long-term treatment with medication, along with therapy, to manage their condition.4

The diagnosis — and the mixture of fear and relief that accompanied it — gave me the clarity I needed to share my experiences with my care team, evaluate treatment options and, with my doctor, make a decision that set me down a new path. I talked it over with my mom, my main support system and best friend, and together with my doctor decided that the 2-month (1064 mg) dose of ARISTADA® (aripiprazole lauroxil) was a good choice for my schizophrenia treatment journey. ARISTADA is a prescription medicine given by injection by a healthcare professional and used to treat schizophrenia in adults.5

Here is some important safety information about ARISTADA: It is not known if ARISTADA is safe and effective in patients under 18. It’s also important to know that elderly people with dementia-related psychosis are at increased risk of death when treated with antipsychotic medicines including ARISTADA. ARISTADA is not for the treatment of people who have lost touch with reality (psychosis) due to confusion and memory loss (dementia). The most common side effects of ARISTADA include restlessness or feeling like you need to move (akathisia). These are not all of the side effects associated with ARISTADA. For additional Important Safety Information, please see below.

Since starting on ARISTADA, I’ve noticed an improvement in my symptoms. This has just been my experience and your experience may be different. Talk to your healthcare team about what may be best for you. I do still have bad days every once in a while, but I have learned coping skills and how to better handle these difficult times.

I take my journey one day at a time. I focus on things that are important to me, like being a daughter, friend, teammate, and volunteer, having a social life and attending events, such as a recent pride festival.

I like that with my current schizophrenia treatment I don’t have to remember to take a pill every day. A nurse gives me my injection at home. I’m engaged in my treatment, attend therapy sessions, and interact with and support others living with schizophrenia. My choices and my support system make this life possible. No medication is right for everyone, this is only my personal experience, and treatment results may vary. It’s exciting to know that there are treatment options for people living with serious mental illnesses like schizophrenia. I encourage others to be open about their experiences, especially with their care team, so that they can discuss treatment goals and the pros and cons of available treatment options, and find the right support at the right time along their treatment journey.

This is intended as informational only and not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical and/or mental health condition.

Please read the Important Safety Information for ARISTADA below. Discuss all benefits and risks with a healthcare provider. See Prescribing Information and Medication Guide.

INDICATION and IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION for ARISTADA INITIO® (aripiprazole lauroxil) and ARISTADA® (aripiprazole lauroxil) extended-release injectable suspension, for intramuscular use

INDICATION

ARISTADA INITIO® (aripiprazole lauroxil) is a prescription medicine given as a one-time injection and is used in combination with oral aripiprazole to start ARISTADA® (aripiprazole lauroxil) treatment, or re-start ARISTADA treatment after a missed dose, when ARISTADA is used for the treatment of schizophrenia in adults.

ARISTADA is a prescription medicine given by injection by a healthcare professional and used to treat schizophrenia in adults.

It is not known if ARISTADA INITIO and/or ARISTADA are safe and effective in children under 18 years of age.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

Elderly people with dementia-related psychosis are at increased risk of death when treated with antipsychotic medicines including ARISTADA INITIO and ARISTADA. ARISTADA INITIO and ARISTADA are not for the treatment of people who have lost touch with reality (psychosis) due to confusion and memory loss (dementia).

Contraindication: Do not receive ARISTADA INITIO or ARISTADA if you are allergic to aripiprazole or any of the ingredients in ARISTADA. Allergic reactions to aripiprazole have ranged from rash, hives and itching to anaphylaxis, which may include difficulty breathing, tightness in the chest, and swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue.

ARISTADA INITIO and/or ARISTADA may cause serious side effects including:

  • Cerebrovascular problems (including stroke) in elderly people with dementia-related psychosis that can lead to death.
  • Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS), a serious condition that can lead to death. Call your healthcare provider or go to the nearest hospital emergency room right away if you have some or all of the following signs and symptoms of NMS
    • high fever
    • stiff muscles
    • confusion
    • sweating
    • changes in pulse, heart rate, and blood pressure
  • Uncontrolled body movements (tardive dyskinesia). ARISTADA INITIO and ARISTADA may cause movements that you cannot control in your face, tongue, or other body parts. Tardive dyskinesia may not go away, even if you stop receiving ARISTADA. Tardive dyskinesia may also start after you stop receiving ARISTADA.
  • Problems with your metabolism such as:
    • High blood sugar (hyperglycemia). Increases in blood sugar can happen in some people who receive ARISTADA INITIO and/or ARISTADA. Extremely high blood sugar can lead to coma or death. If you have diabetes or risk factors for diabetes (such as being overweight or a family history of diabetes), your healthcare provider should check your blood sugar before you receive ARISTADA INITIO and/or ARISTADA and during your treatment with ARISTADA.
      • Call your healthcare provider if you have any of these symptoms of high blood sugar:
        • feel very thirsty
        • need to urinate more than usual
        • feel very hungry
        • feel weak or tired
        • feel sick to your stomach
        • feel confused, or your breath smells fruity
    • Increased fat levels (cholesterol and triglycerides) in your blood
    • Weight gain. You and your healthcare provider should check your weight regularly.
  • Unusual and uncontrollable (compulsive) urges. Some people taking aripiprazole have had strong unusual urges such as gambling that cannot be controlled (compulsive gambling). Other compulsive urges include sexual urges, shopping, and eating or binge eating. If you or your family members notice that you are having unusual strong urges, talk to your healthcare provider.
  • Decreased blood pressure (orthostatic hypotension). You may feel lightheaded or faint when you rise too quickly from a sitting or lying position.
  • Falls. ARISTADA INITIO and ARISTADA may make you sleepy or dizzy when standing which may make you at risk for falls and related injuries.
  • Low white blood cell count
  • Seizures (convulsions)
  • Problems controlling your body temperature. Avoid becoming too hot or dehydrated. Do not exercise too much. In hot weather, stay inside in a cool place if possible. Stay out of the sun. Do not wear too much clothing or heavy clothing. Drink plenty of water.
  • Difficulty swallowing

The most common side effects of ARISTADA INITIO and ARISTADA include restlessness or feeling like you need to move (akathisia). These are not all the possible side effects of ARISTADA INITIO and ARISTADA. You should tell your healthcare provider about any side-effects you have.

Do not drive, operate hazardous machinery, or do other dangerous activities until you know how ARISTADA INITIO and ARISTADA affect you. ARISTADA INITIO and ARISTADA may affect your judgment, thinking or motor skills.

Before receiving ARISTADA INITIO and ARISTADA tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, including if you:

  • have not taken Abilify®, Abilify Maintena®, or any aripiprazole product before
  • have or had heart problems or a stroke
  • have diabetes or high blood sugar or a family history of diabetes or high blood sugar. Your healthcare provider should check your blood sugar before you receive ARISTADA INITIO and/or ARISTADA or during your treatment with ARISTADA
  • have or had low or high blood pressure
  • have or had seizures (convulsions)
  • have or had a low white blood cell count
  • have problems that may affect you receiving an injection in your buttocks or your arm
  • are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if ARISTADA INITIO and/or ARISTADA will harm your unborn baby. If you become pregnant while taking ARISTADA INITIO and/or ARISTADA, talk to your healthcare provider about registering with the National Pregnancy Registry for Atypical Antipsychotics. You can register by calling 1-866-961-2388, or visit http://womensmentalhealth.org/clinical-and-research-programs/pregnancyregistry/
  • are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. ARISTADA INITIO and/or ARISTADA can pass into your breast milk. It is not known if it may harm your baby. Talk to your healthcare provider about the best way to feed your baby if you receive ARISTADA INITIO and/or ARISTADA.

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. ARISTADA INITIO and ARISTADA and other medicines may affect each other causing possible serious side effects. Do not start or stop any medicines after you receive ARISTADA INITIO and ARISTADA without talking to your healthcare provider first.

If you have any questions about your health or medicines, talk to your healthcare provider. You are encouraged to report all side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch, or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

Please see full Prescribing Information for ARISTADA INITIO and ARISTADA, including Boxed Warning, and Medication Guides for ARISTADA INITIO and ARISTADA.

References:

1 Cloutier M, Aigbogun MS, Guerin A, et al. The Economic Burden of Schizophrenia in the United States in 2013. J Clin Psychiatry. 2016;77(6):764-771. doi:10.4088/JCP.15m10278

2 Schizophrenia. National Institute of Mental Health. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/sites/default/files/documents/health/publications/schizophrenia/schizophrenia.pdf. Revised 2021. Accessed November 15, 2022.

3 American Psychiatric Association. Schizophrenia Spectrum and Other Psychiatric Disorders. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. 5th ed. Washington, DC: American Psychiatric Publishing; 2013.

4 Living well with schizophrenia. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). https://www.samhsa.gov/seriousmental-illness/schizophrenia#tips. Updated September 27, 2022. Accessed October 11, 2022.

5 ARISTADA [prescribing information]. Waltham, MA: Alkermes, Inc.; 2021.

Alkermes® is a registered trademark Alkermes, Inc. ARISTADA® and ARISTADA INITIO® are registered trademarks of Alkermes Pharma IrelandLimited, used by Alkermes, Inc. under license. ©2022. Alkermes, Inc. All rights reserved. ARI-004823.