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Ready to get back to barbecue? Tips for choosing your next favorite grill

2023-05-11T06:05:00

(BPT) – There’s nothing like sunshine, a warm breeze and the smell of delicious food on the grill. If you’ve been anticipating getting back to grilling, wait no longer! According to the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association, May 27 is National Back to Barbecue Day — the perfect opportunity to celebrate everything you love about outdoor cooking. If you already have a grill, this is a great time to upgrade, so you can cook more dishes for bigger get-togethers, or to try a different kind of grill, letting you experiment with new techniques like using a smoker.

What kind of grill is best for you? It depends on your space, what you like to cook and how you like to prepare it. First, ask yourself the following questions:

How much time do you want to spend cooking? If you’ve got a busy schedule, you may prefer the convenience of gas or electric grills. However, if you love spending time perfecting the perfect outdoor meal, you may enjoy a charcoal grill, smoker or kamado grill.

How much space do you have? Do you host frequent large gatherings? Go big on your barbecue size to optimize these special occasions. For a big backyard, a larger grill with a kitchen island can create a focal point for entertaining. But a premium portable or compact grill is your best option if you live in a condo or apartment, or for a cabin or other vacation destination with limited space.

What do you love to cook? Many grills offer extra features for particular foods. Think rotisseries if you love roasted chicken, or side burners for soups and stews. Crave the ‘za? Consider a grill with ample space for pizza stones.

To help you discover your next favorite grill, here are the features of five major grill types to consider when making your choice.

Gas: If you want convenience and faster meal prep, a gas grill may be right for you. As with your kitchen stove, your food can be ready to cook in 10 minutes — and it’s easy to regulate cooking temperatures.

Charcoal: If you love being hands-on with the nuances of outdoor grilling, a charcoal grill may be the choice for you. Some say charcoal provides the best flavor experience. You can use your charcoal grill for classic low and slow cooking — and high heat searing.

Pellet: This a great option for people seeking optimal flavor. With available pellets in hickory, mesquite and oak, you can enjoy a truly flavorful cooking experience.

Electric: If simplicity appeals to you most, an electric grill may be your best bet. Designed to produce constant heat and operate without an open flame — without charcoal or propane — they’re especially suited for apartment or condo dwellers.

Kamado: For people who love cooking all styles and who keep grilling year-round, Kamado Grills’ excellent insulation works perfectly for both grilling and smoking. They’re very versatile, use wood and charcoal, and can also roast or bake.

Few products come in as wide an array of price ranges as grills, so almost anyone who wants a grill can find one that’s within their budget. But remember — a more premium grill offers many more features to enjoy and tends to last longer, providing a stronger return on your investment.

Ready to get out there and cook? Get back to barbecue with this delicious recipe for Grilled Chicken Fajitas from food writer Brad Prose, founder of Chiles and Smoke. All you need is two pounds of chicken wings, Mexican seasonings like chili powder, chipotle powder, ginger and limes for a tasty marinade (4-12 hours), then you can wow your friends and family by grilling or smoking these flavorful wings.

Explore recipes and plenty of grilling inspiration at WhyIGrill.org — or find your new grill by locating a retailer near you at HPBA.org/Resources/Store-Locator.

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5 ways men can focus on their bone health this May and beyond

2023-05-10T08:01:00

(BPT) – ADVERTISEMENT Sponsored by Radius Health.

When you hear about osteoporosis, what kind of patient do you picture? Chances are, you imagine a woman. However, you may be surprised to learn that while it’s commonly known as a women’s disease, men are also at risk of developing osteoporosis and experiencing serious injuries related to this condition.

According to the Bone Health & Osteoporosis Foundation (BHOF), osteoporosis in men is a serious risk: two million American men already have osteoporosis and about 12 million more are at risk. While many men may be concerned about developing prostate cancer, they’re actually more likely to break a bone because of osteoporosis. In fact, one in four men over 50 will break a bone due to osteoporosis.

Breaking a bone isn’t just painful. It can have serious health consequences. Each year, about 80,000 men will break a hip and compared to women, they’re more likely to die within a year of breaking a hip.

Whether you are a man or a woman, you can help maintain and improve your bone health through lifestyle choices and early intervention. In honor of Osteoporosis Awareness Month, here are five tips that both men and women can do to invest in their bone health to help prevent the risk of weak bones.

1. Eat foods for bone health

Eating the right foods is one of the easiest ways to strengthen bones. According to BHOF, calcium is especially important, as it’s the building block of your bones. Make sure you eat and drink your calcium daily by incorporating low-fat dairy, leafy greens, fish, fortified juices, milk and grains into your diet.

Of course, getting enough calcium isn’t useful on its own. You should talk to your doctor to ensure you’re getting enough vitamin D, which helps your body absorb calcium. While some foods contain vitamin D, taking a supplement can help raise your levels. Similarly, your doctor may recommend you start on a calcium supplement.

Finally, you’ll need protein to build and repair bones. According to Harvard Health, healthy protein sources include dairy products, fish, legumes, poultry, whole grains, nuts, seeds, corn, broccoli and asparagus.

2. Make exercise a part of your routine

Just like your muscles, your bones become stronger with exercise. Weight-bearing exercises, like hiking, jogging, tennis, dancing and climbing stairs, are excellent for strengthening bones.

Muscle-strengthening exercises are also important because your muscles and bones work in tandem. As your muscles grow stronger from exercise, they pull on your bones, encouraging them to get stronger to support the strain on your muscles. According to BHOF, lifting weights, resistance exercises with elastic bands, yoga and Pilates are great for improving strength, balance and flexibility, which can help prevent falls as you age.

3. Skip the cigarette

Smoking is detrimental to your overall health and specifically increases your risk of weakened bones. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), studies suggest tobacco use has been linked to decreased bone density and increased fracture risks.

Smoking also increases common risk factors that contribute to osteoporosis. For example, the NIH notes that smokers tend to be thinner, drink more, are less physically active and have poor diets compared to nonsmokers. All of these factors increase your risk of developing osteoporosis.

4. Decrease drinking

Drinking too much alcohol is associated with many health problems, including osteoporosis. According to NIH, excessive drinking throws off calcium balance and the production of vitamin D.

Alcohol can also affect your balance and gait, which is why people with alcoholism tend to fall more frequently. Heavy drinking has been linked to an increased risk of fractures, especially hip fractures. To maintain healthy bones and prevent falling, BHOF recommends limiting your alcohol consumption to 2-3 drinks per day.

5. Talk to your doctor

In addition to making healthy life choices, you should talk with your doctor about a bone density scan. This is especially important for men: unlike women, who are recommended to get a bone density scan after age 65, the NIH notes that men are often not diagnosed until a fracture occurs or the man complains of back pain.

Additionally, if you have osteoporosis and are at risk of a fracture, your doctor may also recommend medication.

Many patients with osteoporosis receive antiresorptive treatment, which slows down bone loss. It’s also critical to rebuild the bone lost by increasing bone mineral density—a measure of the amount of mineral in your bones.

TYMLOS® (abaloparatide) is a treatment option to increase bone density in men with osteoporosis who are at high risk for bone fracture, or who cannot use another osteoporosis treatment or other osteoporosis treatments did not work well. TYMLOS® is also approved to treat osteoporosis in postmenopausal women who are at high risk for bone fracture, or who cannot use another osteoporosis treatment or other osteoporosis treatments did not work well. To learn more about this treatment, visit Tymlos.com.

Using these five tips for men’s bone health, you can help protect your bones as you age and reduce your risk of life-altering fractures.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

What is the most important information I should know about TYMLOS?

TYMLOS may cause serious side effects including:

Possible bone cancer (osteosarcoma). During animal drug testing, TYMLOS caused some rats to develop a bone cancer called osteosarcoma. It is not known if people who take TYMLOS will have a higher chance of getting osteosarcoma.

  • Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have pain in your bones, pain in any areas of your body that does not go away, or any new or unusual lumps or swelling under your skin that is tender to touch.

Do not take TYMLOS:

  • if you had an allergic reaction to abaloparatide or any of the other ingredients in TYMLOS. The inactive ingredients in TYMLOS are phenol, sodium acetate trihydrate, acetic acid, and water for injection.

Before you take TYMLOS, tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, including if you:

  • have Paget’s disease of the bone or other bone disease.
  • have or have had any of the following: cancer in your bones; radiation therapy involving your bones; too much calcium in your blood; or an increase in your parathyroid hormone (hyperparathyroidism).
  • will have trouble injecting yourself with the TYMLOS pen and do not have someone who can help you.
  • are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, because TYMLOS is not for pregnant women, or if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if TYMLOS passes into your breast milk; you should not take TYMLOS and breastfeed.

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

What are the possible side effects of TYMLOS?

TYMLOS can cause serious side effects including:

  • Decrease in blood pressure when you change positions. Some people may feel dizzy, have a faster heartbeat, or feel lightheaded soon after the TYMLOS injection is given. These symptoms generally go away within a few hours. Take your injection of TYMLOS in a place where you can sit or lie down right away if you get these symptoms. If your symptoms get worse or do not go away, stop taking TYMLOS and call your healthcare provider.
  • Increased blood calcium (hypercalcemia). TYMLOS can cause some people to have a higher blood calcium level than normal. Your healthcare provider may check your blood calcium before you start and during your treatment with TYMLOS. Tell your healthcare provider if you have nausea, vomiting, constipation, low energy, or muscle weakness. These may be signs there is too much calcium in your blood.
  • Increased urine calcium (hypercalciuria). TYMLOS can cause some people to have higher levels of calcium in their urine than normal. Increased calcium may also cause you to develop kidney stones (urolithiasis) in your kidneys, bladder, or urinary tract. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get any symptoms of kidney stones which may include pain in your lower back or lower stomach area, pain when you urinate, or blood in your urine.

The most common side effects of TYMLOS in women with postmenopausal osteoporosis include:

  • dizziness, nausea, headache, fast heartbeat, feeling tired (fatigue), upper stomach pain, and spinning feeling (vertigo).

The most common side effects of TYMLOS in men with osteoporosis include:

  • redness at injection site, dizziness, joint pain, swelling at injection site, pain at injection site, bruising, abdominal bloating, diarrhea, nausea, abdominal pain, and bone pain.

These are not all the possible side effects of TYMLOS. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

How should I use TYMLOS?

  • Read the complete Instructions for Use provided with your medicine.
  • If you take more TYMLOS than prescribed you may experience symptoms such as muscle weakness, low energy, headache, nausea, dizziness (especially when getting up after sitting for a while), and a faster heartbeat. Stop taking TYMLOS and call your healthcare provider right away.
  • You should not use TYMLOS for more than 2 years over your lifetime.

What is TYMLOS?

TYMLOS is a prescription medicine used to:

  • Treat osteoporosis in postmenopausal women who are at high risk for bone fracture, or who cannot use another osteoporosis treatment or other osteoporosis treatments did not work well. TYMLOS can decrease the chance of having a fracture of the spine and other bones in postmenopausal women with thinning and weakening bones (osteoporosis).
  • Increase bone density in men with osteoporosis who are at high risk for bone fracture, or who cannot use another osteoporosis treatment or other osteoporosis treatments did not work well.

It is not known if TYMLOS is safe and effective for children and young adults 18 years and younger. TYMLOS should not be used in children and young adults whose bones are still growing.

Please read the full Prescribing Information, including Medication Guide.

ADVERTISEMENT Sponsored by Radius Health.

©2023 Radius Health, Inc. TYMLOS and Radius are registered trademarks of Radius Health, Inc. TYM-US-05447 05/23

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How design has helped the rebirth of a 100-year-old American brand

2023-05-10T11:01:00

(BPT) – When you think of the most important, influential companies in America, the first image that may pop into your head is their logo. This is common for long-lived brands spanning decades — or over a century — and even more so for well-designed, memorable logos that represent the company in a visually meaningful way. For example, when you hear the name “Westinghouse,” you probably imagine the distinctive brand logo designed by renowned graphic designer and art director Paul Rand (1914-1996) back in 1959. Throughout his illustrious career, Rand created numerous well-known logos for companies like IBM, UPS, ABC and NeXT.

Rand’s familiar logo is now undergoing a facelift thanks to acclaimed contemporary designer Paula Scher, who has reimagined the famous logo with a colorful approach that’s appealing to today’s consumers, while still paying homage to its original creator.

Brief history of an iconic American brand

George Westinghouse founded his company in 1886, and through a partnership with Nikola Tesla and the development of the AC power system, Westinghouse defeated Thomas Edison’s DC power in the “war of the currents.” For the next century Westinghouse achieved fascinating firsts in electrical innovation, including the first long-distance transmission of high-voltage AC power, the first commercial radio broadcast and the camera that captured the first steps on the moon during the Apollo 11 mission. Today, the Westinghouse logo can be found on products ranging from nuclear power plants and large industrial motors to televisions, light bulbs, generators and more.

The famous brand logo designed by Paul Rand is made from the letter “w” with three circles atop each peak and a bold line underneath. Not only is the design eye-catching and memorable, but it suggests the idea of electronic circuits connecting, representing the company’s foundation and continuing product line.

“The enduring legacy of this logo design is undeniable,” said Director of Brand Experience at Westinghouse Electric Corporation Kevin Drain. “And the longevity of this clear, clean, evocative image speaks to the power and passion behind Rand’s vision.”

Redesigning an iconic brand for the next generation

As the company planned to revitalize the brand, they sought one of the best designers in the country to help reimagine the logo for a modern audience.

Paula Scher was their top choice, as a highly influential graphic designer well known for her creative work for companies including Citibank, Tiffany’s, Microsoft, Adobe, Coca-Cola and the Walt Disney Company, just to name a few — plus venerable institutions such as the Museum of Modern Art, the Sundance Institute, the Metropolitan Opera and the New York Philharmonic. In 2001, Scher was awarded the profession’s highest honor by the American Institute of Graphic Arts, the AIGA Medal, to recognize her distinguished achievements in the field, and is one of the world’s most highly regarded designers today.

Using Paul Rand’s original Westinghouse brand manual as inspiration, Paula Scher created a visually compelling redesign for the new look of Westinghouse. The design incorporated bright colors, larger typeface and the circle element to appeal to a younger audience while still honoring the company’s legacy of technological innovation. This new design system is a powerful tool in perpetuating the generational legacy of the brand.

“The evolution of this logo is proof that great design will always be great,” added Drain. “If you have a classic design like Rand’s logo, why not keep it — especially when it’s been created to stand the test of time. Scher has taken the original design and modernized it brilliantly, bringing it into the 21st century.”

Check out the new look for the logo design by visiting Westinghouse.com.

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Go Natural with Home Decor

2023-05-09T13:53:00

(BPT) – Is it time to add style to your home’s décor? If you’re drawn to natural beauty and products that have a story, what can be better than pieces made by nature and crafted by hand? That’s why choosing items made from a Real American Hardwood® species like cypress is a meaningful way to add a personal touch. Here are five thoughtful ways to bring a slice of nature and history into your home.

The Center of Attention

Why would you not want to consider real wood décor items? That’s a question David O’Brien, owner of the Old Sinker Cypress Shop in Mandeville, Louisiana, asks often.

“People love to touch and hold wood, especially when it’s as gorgeous as cypress,” he explains. “It’s the real deal — it’s what so many manufacturers of wood-look products try to mimic.”

As the name implies, his shop specializes in creating a variety of items out of cypress. “We make display vases, charcuterie boards, curio boxes, incense holders, plate warmers, frames, framed prints, coffee tables, waterfall tables, benches, shelving, desks — anything you can imagine.”

Dine in Style

When it comes to investing in quality furniture, O’Brien says cypress is durable and can last forever when properly maintained.

“We produce a lot of live-edge furniture from cypress logs that are 300–400 years old, and that probably spent another century under water. Every board offers unique texture and color. And every finished item combines art and history.”

As for his favorite piece? O’Brien says it’s an 8-foot-by-3.5-foot dining table crafted from a single live-edge cypress slab. “It’s absolutely stunning and would be a showpiece in any home.”

Now Serving

Woodworker Adam Doucet of Nonc’s Shop in Sunset, Louisiana, crafts small novelty items like bowls, utensils and other household items. While he works with a variety of wood, he says working with cypress is a dream.

“I particularly enjoy creating with sinker cypress,” he explains. “Cypress is the dinosaur of the swamps in our area — next to the alligators, I suppose. Many trees were felled by ancient hurricanes and the logs are still sitting there, and that makes creating something out of them extra special. You can see the grain and hundreds of years of growth. The wood’s beauty is unlike anything else, and you never know what you’re going to uncover until you start working. Dark gray, olive and maroon tones — it’s always a surprise and the finished products are breathtaking.

The Host with the Most

When it’s time to entertain family and friends, a serving tray comes in extra handy for transporting drinks and snacks. And for New Orleans–based creator Scott Myers of Myers and Son Atelier, a cypress tray doubles as a conversation starter.

“Cypress has a lot of variation in color and grain; it’s downright gorgeous. I use a lot of reclaimed wood, typically from old houses. It’d be a shame to let the material go to waste, so I repurpose it for things like serving trays and other functional items. It’s really special to look at old wood that found new life, and to share that history with guests. It makes for great conversation.”

Light it Up

While Myers makes a number of items—including tables, mantles, and display pieces to name a few—cypress lamps are his favorite. And it’s the handmade aspect of creating beautiful wooden lamps and highlighting intricate details that inspired him to get into woodworking.

“For me, connections to actual people are important,” he adds. “I have a table that my grandmother made and I love the fact that it’s a unique item that her hands literally shaped. I think there is satisfaction in knowing that an item was created by someone’s hands and mind, rather than mass produced by the thousands in a factory. It doesn’t get more personal than that.”

For more ways to add a slice of nature and history to your home’s décor, visit www.cypressinfo.org.

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New home checklist: 5 things to check out before moving in

2023-05-09T10:11:00

(BPT) – Are you planning to move this summer? You’re not alone. According to Architectural Digest, most Americans move during the summer, between Memorial Day in May and Labor Day weekend in September, when the weather is pleasant, and children are out of school.

Moving in requires more than just packing your belongings and renting a moving truck. Before you arrive, there are several things you can do to make your new home move-in ready. Here are five tasks for your moving checklist before the big day.

1. Make repairs

Moving in is always stressful, but unexpected repairs can make it even more challenging when you’re focused on moving in your possessions. Before moving in, check for cosmetic and structural repairs, such as cracks in the walls, ceilings and floors, and leaks or mold.

You’ll also want to test the electrical outlets to ensure you can plug in and use all your appliances. An easy way to do this is to bring your phone charger and plug in your phone to test whether the outlet works. If you notice any issues, contact the seller so they can make the necessary repairs before you move in.

2. Schedule a deep clean

Cleaning your space is more difficult when working around furniture and unpacked boxes. As your move-in date approaches, schedule a day or two to deep-clean your new home.

Vacuum and mop the floors to pick up any dirt or dust left by the previous owners. Wipe down counters, cabinets and appliances and don’t forget to scrub the bathrooms and toilets.

You should also consider hiring professional cleaners to take this task off your plate. Schedule your deep clean for a day or two before your move-in date so you can enjoy your clean home as soon as you finish unpacking.

3. Check for smart devices

As you prepare to move in, stop by your new home and check for smart devices the previous owners may have installed. For example, your new abode may have a smart thermostat, smart lock, smart lightbulbs or a refrigerator with smart technology. Find and pair your phone with existing smart devices and make a note of any you’d like to keep before moving in.

One smart device that many homes have today that you may not think to look for is a smart garage door opener. Go to your garage and look up to see if your garage door opener has myQ technology. If there is a myQ logo plus a WiFi logo, or it says “powered by myQ” on your garage door opener, download the myQ app and follow the steps to connect your opener(s).

With the myQ app, homeowners are not limited to opening and closing the garage door within line of sight of the garage. You can control, secure and monitor the garage door from anywhere with your smartphone. This smart technology enhances the security of your garage and home with real-time alerts in case you leave the garage door open. Also, the app’s Guest Access feature provides a safer way to share access to your home without having to share keys or codes. And, myQ smart garage door openers work with Amazon Key and Walmart+ InHome for convenient and secure in-garage delivery of packages and groceries. To learn more, visit myQ.com.

4. Turn on the AC

Air conditioning during the summer is a must. To make sure you can cool down after a long day of moving, test the AC beforehand.

Without testing the AC, you risk going without cool air until you can fix it, dampening your enjoyment of your new home. Also, an AC unit with failing parts can result in a high electric bill.

Turn the AC on and be aware of leaks, strange noises or odors. Fix any AC issues before moving day so you can rest comfortably after a long, hard day of moving.

5. Set up utilities

Plan ahead and set up your utilities to make your transition from one home to another as smooth as possible. Your list of utilities should include electricity, water, gas, trash pickup and internet. Start the process three weeks before your move-in date so you don’t have to wait for service.

Depending on where you’re moving to, you may be able to call your current utility companies and inform them of your move. They can then start utility services the day you move in. However, if a utility company doesn’t serve your new area, you’ll need to cancel your plan and sign up with a provider that services your new location.

Don’t wait until the last minute to ensure your home is move-in ready! Using these five tips, moving will be a breeze, and you can quickly settle in and enjoy your new home.

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4 ways to keep your family fueled and healthy during busy sports season

2023-05-09T11:01:00

(BPT) – Being involved in sports is a great way to enjoy the warm weather, bond with your kids and create long-lasting memories. It’s also a great way to help keep your family healthy both physically and mentally!

Registered Dietitian and Nutritionist Dawn Jackson Blatner shares four tips that can keep families on top of their game as they’re shuffling back and forth from practices, games and tournaments!

1. Check your timing

When it comes to when to eat to best fuel for practices and games, this is a good rule of thumb:

– three to four hours before a game or practice, eat a “power plate” balanced meal

– one to two hours before a game or practice, have an energizing bite

This timing will help your kids have enough energizing fuel to play their best without feeling too full or weighed down.

2. Get supercharged with sleep

Sleep is the best way to recharge tired muscles and restore energy. One way to get a better night’s sleep is to shut off video games, the TV, computers and phones at least one hour before bed to get your kids more relaxed and ready to fall asleep.

3. Drink up to play your best

Drinking water before, during and after practice and games can help kids’ muscles stay healthy and energized and their mind stay focused. Be sure your kids always carry a water bottle so they can be sipping on the way to the field, while they are playing and on the way home.

4. Fuel with food

Offer nutrient-rich foods throughout the day to give kids plenty of energy to fuel increased activity. When choosing what to give your family before a game, it’s important that meals are packed with nutrition and taste good so kids actually want to eat them!

These delicious Pizza-Style Egg Bites from Eggland’s Best are an easy way to make sure everyone in your family is getting the nutrients they need to score big. Eggland’s Best eggs contain more than double the Omega-3s compared to ordinary eggs, which can help reduce muscle soreness and aid in recovery after strenuous exercise. They also have more than double the Vitamin B-12, which provides a natural energy boost to keep the whole family going on those busy days of sports activities!

Pizza-Style Egg Bites
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Yield: 12 egg bites

Ingredients

  • 10 Eggland’s Best Large Eggs
  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 cups frozen spinach or kale
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Sea salt and black pepper
  • 1/2 cup jarred no-added-sugar marinara sauce
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Optional: 12 pieces uncured turkey pepperoni

Preparation

1. Preheat oven to 350º F and prepare muffin tin with 12 liners.

2. In a skillet over medium heat, add oil, spinach and garlic and cook until heated through, about 5 minutes. Set aside and let cool.

3. In a large bowl, whisk Eggland’s Best Eggs with salt, pepper and cooled spinach.

4. Pour egg mixture evenly into the muffin liners, place in oven and cook for 15 minutes.

5. Remove from oven, top each muffin evenly with marinara, cheese and optional pepperoni.

6. Return to oven for another 5 minutes, until eggs are cooked and cheese is melted.

7. Eat immediately or store leftovers covered in fridge for up to four days or freezer up to three months.

Using these four tips, your family can enjoy your sports day to the max! To find more recipes to keep your little athletes fueled, visit EgglandsBest.com.

For families looking for a chance to win a trip to the Little League Baseball® World Series, look no further than the Eggland’s Best MVP (Most Valuable Plate) Sweepstakes! Fans can enter daily from now through June 30th for a chance to win a trip, plus other eggs-ceptional prizes! Visit EBFamilySweeps.com for Official Rules and how to enter.

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Leverage the new Inflation Reduction Act to go green and save big

2023-05-02T11:00:48

(BPT) – In August 2022, the U.S. government passed the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), a comprehensive energy policy bill that provides a record $370 billion for climate and energy initiatives. The act, focused on clean energy and climate change, has wide-reaching implications for individuals and families across the country.

Specifically for homeowners, the IRA comes with incentives to upgrade and install environmentally friendly equipment and appliances throughout their home. By taking advantage of the tax credit, homeowners can reduce their tax bill by up to $3,200 and offset some of the upfront costs of making energy-efficient home improvements.

The following tips help to break down how homeowners can leverage this new piece of legislation and its home energy incentive programs.

Dive In – Understand the two homeowner incentive programs – Tax Credits and Rebates. The IRA created these two initiatives to empower homeowners to install high-efficiency equipment. Additionally, in some cases, the qualifying equipment may be different.

  • Tax Credits – The IRA extended and enhanced a tax credit, the Energy-Efficient Home Improvement Credit (EEHIC). Previously this type of credit was the Non-Business Energy Property Credit, which was restructured and expanded as part of the new law.

Federal tax credits can be leveraged for the next 10 years, until December 31, 2032, and apply to the purchase and installation of highly efficient products, including HVAC equipment.

Homeowners can earn up to $2,000, or 30% of the cost of the product and installation, for heat pumps; $600 for highly efficient furnaces; and $600 for qualifying air conditioners. There is a yearly cap on the tax credits of up to $3,200, and the credit cap resets every year. So, a homeowner can replace one system, such as a heat pump, one year and other equipment the next.

  • Rebate Program – The High-Efficiency Electric Home Rebate Act (HEEHRA) Program provides point-of-sale consumer discounts to enable low- and moderate-income households across America to electrify their homes. The program covers up to 100% of electrification project costs (up to $14,000) for low-income households and 50% of costs (up to $7,000) for moderate-income households. Eligible homeowners can receive:
    • Up to $8,000 for all-electric heat pumps
    • Up to $4,000 for an electrical load service center upgrade
    • Up to $2,500 for electric wiring
    • Up to $14,000 maximum for all eligible measures

HEEHRA can stack with federal energy efficiency and electrification tax credits.

Now that we’ve covered the basics of the two incentive programs within the IRA, here is a quick checklist on how homeowners can best leverage the IRA:

  • Meet the necessary requirements: In order to qualify for the credit, homeowners must meet certain requirements, such as using products that adhere to specific energy efficiency standards. The amount of savings an individual can expect depends largely on the type of appliance. One must obtain a Manufacturer’s Certification Statement — a signed statement from the manufacturer certifying that the product or component qualifies for the tax credit. Rheem, an innovator in manufacturing HVAC equipment, has a number of heating and cooling devices which qualify for the tax credit.
  • Assess your current situation: Homeowners may benefit from the IRA’s tax credit for energy audits. Hiring a qualifying inspector and conducting a professional energy assessment of the home can help provide a roadmap and determine all the areas where savings can be leveraged.
  • Upgrade heating and cooling appliances: Natural gas prices are continuing to rise, making energy-efficient upgrades to products like heat pumps an efficient and cost-effective choice. For water heating, this tax credit gives homeowners equal to 30% of installation costs for qualified high-efficiency products, up to: $600 for gas-fired tankless and gas-fired tank type storage water heaters; and $2,000 for ultra-high-efficiency heat pump water heaters. Owners can also consider installing a geothermal heat pump in their homes which could entitle homeowners to a federal tax credit of up to 30% of the cost, including installation, with no upper limit.

Once homeowners take the necessary steps and feel empowered to make equipment changes, they can expect to see the following benefits:

  • Save money on federal income taxes: By taking advantage of the tax credit, homeowners can reduce their tax bill, providing big savings for their family.
  • Reduce energy bills: By making energy-efficient improvements to their homes, homeowners can reduce energy usage and lower their monthly utility bills.
  • Increase the value of a home: Energy-efficient upgrades can make homes more attractive to potential buyers, who may be willing to pay more for a home that is eco-friendly and has lower energy bills.

An increasing number of homeowners today are concerned about the impact they are having on the environment. Seeking home solutions that are energy efficient and lower emissions, while utilizing IRA incentives, makes it easier for homeowners to win on all fronts. In addition, when considering making the switch to energy-efficient products, leading manufacturers, such as Rheem, also provide details on a variety of other incentives that can be leveraged. By making energy-efficient home improvements, homeowners can save money while reducing their carbon footprint and contributing to a cleaner, more sustainable future.

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How to decide if a home remodel makes financial sense for you

2023-05-09T07:01:00

(BPT) – There comes a time when every homeowner looks around at their house and ponders a few upgrades. Sometimes, those ideas turn into full-on renovations as you reimagine your space to better meet your lifestyle. But before you start calling contractors, ask yourself: Does remodeling make financial sense?

Here are three tips to help you decide if a home renovation benefits your home and your finances.

Identify your wants vs. needs

How necessary are the improvements you want? Some home projects may end up costing you more than the value they provide. That doesn’t mean certain projects aren’t worthwhile.

“Home renovations come in all shapes and sizes. For some, it may be about the investment and increasing the home value, for a good few it might be about what looks the best, while others might not have a choice,” said Adam Fingerman, assistant vice president of equity lending at Navy Federal Credit Union. “Whatever the reason, it’s always a good idea to understand how a large renovation might impact your finances and the overall value of your home.”

Know your budget

Consider creating a chart with all of your cost estimates, and include columns for high-, medium- and low-cost options. Don’t forget supplies for do-it-yourself projects and always allocate a certain percentage for unexpected expenses.

Also be sure to get estimates from different contractors and compare them. Carefully check references and business licenses.

Explore financing options

Ideally, you’ve already established a home improvement savings plan. But if you’re planning to borrow, explore your financing options through your trusted bank or credit union.

“Think about the size of your project, whether or not you’ll have ongoing expenses, and your current finances,” said Fingerman.

For example, Navy Federal offers members various options for funding home improvement projects, such as home equity loans, home equity line of credit or personal expense loans. Members also have access to a wealth of information to help them make informed decisions about the right financing products for their home improvement goals.

Home renovations of any size — large or small — can be overwhelming. Consider these tips to help make it easier and more affordable in the long run.

Navy Federal Credit Union is federally insured by NCUA. Equal housing lender.

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Create lasting family memories in your kitchen

2023-05-08T09:01:00

(BPT) – In a world full of scrolling and streaming, families can still find time to gather around delicious food and beloved snacks. From lunchtime to snack time, family meals are the perfect occasion to hit pause on a busy day and start new traditions that infuse more family fun into everyday life.

Many memories are made in the kitchen, so what if you invited your family to roll up their sleeves and have a little fun? Here are three ways to include your little ones in the kitchen to create meaningful moments of family connection.

Turn Snack Time into Gametime

What if a little snack could turn into big family fun?

To remind families of the joy of old-school game night, Kellogg’s® Rice Krispies Treats® teamed up with multi-platinum artist, actor, philanthropist, and proud girl-dad Ludacris to create the limited-edition “Treat. Eat. Compete.” game set, complete with custom gameplay goodies and a new pack of Rice Krispies Treats® bars. With five unique games inspired by the iconic rapper and the beloved brand, “Treat. Eat. Compete” will get loved ones together in the spirit of competition and ooey-gooey snacks. Each game is centered around the iconic snack to make game time fun, easy and delicious for family members of all ages. Win or lose, everyone can end the games by enjoying a delicious Rice Krispies Treats bar!

Starting May 8, the game set can be purchased at ricekrispiestreats.com for $20 (including shipping) while supplies last. Proceeds will support Boys & Girls Clubs of America to help foster more safe places for kids nationwide to play, compete, and connect.*

For any fans who don’t get their hands on a “Treat. Eat. Compete.” game set, there are still endless ways to create new food traditions. Unwrap a Rice Krispies Treats® bar with your kiddos and get inspired with your own creations, contests and competitions or check out #treateatcompete on TikTok for inspiration!

Turn Mealtime Prep into Culinary Fun

Up for a culinary adventure? Make it fun for kids to participate in cooking meals by brainstorming new recipes and ingredients.

How it works:

Have each family member write down an ingredient on a piece of paper and put them into a bowl. (Make sure to have ingredients on hand when ready to play.) To add a bit of adventure to a mealtime, have a family member choose a slip of paper at random from the bowl. Work together as a family to come up with ideas for how to incorporate that ingredient into the meal.

Turn Dinnertime Dining into a Crafting Extravaganza

Edible arts and crafts can be fun for the whole family! An added bonus: Eating what you create helps cut down on food waste while also making clean-up a breeze.

A simple way to start:

1. Provide toppings and decorations for a snack canvas of your choosing.

2. Encourage kids to use the toppings to create fun designs on their food and show off for the rest of the table’s enjoyment.

3. Gradually introduce unique ingredients and flavors to inspire curiosity of new food experiences.

Or, keep it simple! Grab the ingredients to make a favorite ooey-gooey snack — Rice Krispies Treats® bars — and let the kiddos DIY, craft and create their own snacks by shaping them into different molds or mashing them with their favorite mix-ins. Grab the brand’s Original recipe and get inspired at https://www.ricekrispies.com/en_US/recipes/the-original-treats-recipe.html

Looking for more ways to get your family together over snack time? Head to TikTok and follow along with @ludacrisdtp, @ricekrispiestreats or #treateatcompete for all kinds of family fun-spiration. We can’t wait to see what your family makes in the kitchen!

*For each purchase of specially marked Kellogg’s® Rice Krispies Treat. Eat. Compete. Game Sets from May 8, 2023 to July 31, 2023, Kellogg’s will donate $20.00 to Boys & Girls Clubs of America. Kellogg’s guarantees a minimum donation of $100,000. Maximum donation of $150,000.

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Escape the everyday routine and make family memories this summer

2023-05-08T10:01:00

(BPT) – There’s a reason summer is a popular time to vacation. With the kids out of school, and the weather warming up, take advantage of the sunshine and your family’s more flexible schedule to share experiences and strengthen your family bonds.

This year will be an especially popular year for vacations. Do you crave an escape from your daily routine — 64% of people say they do — if even for a few days? In a recent study conducted by Mintel, in partnership with Kalahari Resorts & Conventions, nearly 62% of parents intend to take more family vacations in 2023 than they did in 2022, and 77% said their goal was to make memories and 74% to have fun.

Are you ready to start planning your vacation? Check out these three family vacation ideas that are perfect for having fun and making memories together this summer.

1. Explore a new city

Exploring a new city together can be a fun and exciting adventure for the whole family! Choose a destination and make a list of must-see spots and activities so you can plan accordingly. Your list should include restaurants for the foodies in your family, amusement parks and attractions for the thrill seekers, shops for the fashionistas and a spa visit for those who want to relax.

Don’t overload your itinerary! Remember, your family should come back from vacation feeling refreshed. Build in downtime in between events and outings, too. Quiet, relaxing moments together allow everyone to recharge for the next activity and allow you to reflect on the memories you’re making.

2. Take a road trip

A family road trip is the quintessential American vacation experience and for good reason. According to the Mintel study, 50% of parents prefer to drive and 72% of parents say it’s important to pick a destination they can drive to.

No two road trips are alike. Even if you’re taking the same route as others, when and where you decide to stop is completely up to your family, making each road trip a unique experience.

When planning a road trip, you can pick one or several destinations and plan for pit stops along the way. Also, the flexibility of a road trip means you can stop and explore a town or attraction on your route that piques your interest with minimal disruption to your planned itinerary.

The best part of a family road trip is that quality time is built into it. Spending time together in the car gives you plenty of opportunities to connect and talk about what you’re most excited to see and experience.

3. Stay at a resort

A family vacation at a resort is a great way to have fun while taking the stress out of trip planning. Instead of going out to several locations in one city, you can adventure, shop, eat and relax all in one place.

A destination like Kalahari Resorts & Conventions has something for everyone, all under one roof! Home to America’s largest indoor waterparks, kids of all ages will make memories and are sure to have fun at both the indoor and outdoor waterslides, pools and lazy rivers. Stop by the family entertainment center and play some games as a family or try an escape room. The resort’s signature dining options have dishes and drinks to delight everyone’s palate. There’s also a full-service spa experience for prime pampering in between activities. Don’t forget to stop at the unique retail shops to pick up souvenirs and gifts to commemorate your trip.

You can choose from one of four conveniently located resorts (Wisconsin Dells, WI; Sandusky, OH; Pocono Mountains, PA; and Round Rock, TX), pick a route and enjoy a road trip to your resort vacation. And no need to worry about the weather! Mintel found that 81% of parents say it is important to pick a location they can enjoy that is not dependent on the weather. That’s not a problem because it’s always sunny and 84 degrees inside Kalahari, so you can enjoy a true summer vacation no matter what it’s doing outside. To learn more, visit KalahariResorts.com.

Don’t let this summer slip by getting lost in your day-to-day routine Let these three ideas inspire your family vacation so you can start planning your trip to make memories and have fun together this summer.