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California’s Auto Liability Coverage Limits to Increase in 2025 to Better Financially Protect Drivers

2024-12-19T13:01:00

(BPT) – The state of California has not raised auto liability coverage limits for more than 50 years, but that is set to change beginning next year. The new legislation, introduced in 2022 to keep pace with rising medical and repair costs, will require higher liability coverage limits for drivers and will take effect on Jan. 1, 2025. As we approach the new year, Mercury Insurance wants to help consumers better understand what these new limits entail.

“With the increase in liability coverage limits, California drivers will be more likely to have the coverage they need to pay for an accident without going into debt,” said Justin Yoshizawa, Director of Product Management for Mercury Insurance. “However, some drivers may notice an increase in their premiums next year, which means now is a great time to get in touch with your insurance agent to review your policy and maximize savings with potential discounts.”

Here’s what California drivers should know about the mandate:

What are the new coverage limits?

Currently, California requires motorists to carry liability insurance with minimum limits of $15,000/$30,000 for Bodily Injury and $5,000 for Property Damage. Starting in 2025, this will increase to $30,000/$60,000 for Bodily Injury and $15,000 for Property Damage.

When will the new coverage limits take effect?

New liability coverage limits will go into effect on Jan. 1, 2025. Drivers who are impacted should see the change in their next policy renewal after that time.

Why is this change happening?

Despite being home to the most licensed drivers in the country, the state of California has not raised auto liability coverage limits for the past 56 years. During that time, the costs associated with getting into an accident — medical bills and repair costs — have risen significantly due to inflation. The changes are intended to provide California drivers with greater financial protection amid these rising costs if they were to get into an accident.

Will this affect insurance premium for drivers?

This will affect premiums for drivers who currently carry the minimum coverage and are bumped up to the new limits as a result of the mandate.

What do drivers need to do now?

No action is required on the part of drivers. All existing policies with lower limits will be renewed with the adjusted minimum limits on or after Jan. 1, 2025. However, it would be a good idea to reach out to your insurance agent to review coverages and potential discounts that may be offered.

“These new coverage limits will remain in place for the next 10 years, after which another increase will go into effect,” said Yoshizawa. “The good news is that California drivers will be more adequately insured to cover repairs or injuries following an accident.”

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Millions of Americans live with type 2 diabetes—A division 1 football family shares how they tackle the disease head-on

2024-12-19T07:01:00

(BPT) – The following story was prepared and sponsored by Novo Nordisk. Calvin, Patrice, and Cam Ward are paid spokespersons of Novo Nordisk.

Picture this—you’re a D1 starting quarterback preparing for your upcoming game. Football has been a part of your life for longer than you can remember, so going over your pre-game to-do list is second nature: organizing equipment, memorizing plays, watching film, and making sure schoolwork doesn’t fall to the wayside. These are typical bullets on a football player’s list and are top-of-mind daily. But there’s one more item on the list for Cam Ward: checking in with his parents, Patrice and Calvin, who live with type 2 diabetes, to make sure they’re staying healthy and on track to come to his next game. After all, they’ve never missed one.

The Wards are highlighting type 2 diabetes as a critical issue affecting far too many. More than 38 million Americans live with diabetes,1 with the vast majority (~90%-95%) having type 2 diabetes.2 Roughly 20% of people with diabetes remain undiagnosed.1 The Ward family’s story is a window into the power of community, family, and faith when managing type 2 diabetes.

A Family United by Faith, Football, and Firm Persistence

With deep-rooted faith, tight-knit family bonds, and dedication to football, the Ward family is a beacon of resilience and determination. Cam Ward, now a starting division 1 college quarterback, is not only a force on the field but also a supportive son, brother, and champion of his family’s health. Just as Cam is making his mark on the football field, his parents, Calvin and Patrice, are also making an impact in their community. They are just as active, organizing sports camps and fundraisers in their community and volunteering at their church. Together, Calvin and Patrice go the extra yard when it comes to managing their type 2 diabetes—from doing their best to prioritize healthy eating and staying active, even when on the road, to working with their healthcare professional. And Cam supports from the sidelines, checking in daily and making sure they stay on track. It’s clear the teamwork spirit is central to their family playbook.

“Our family does everything together,” said Cam. “Whether it’s traveling, watching sports, having family meals together, or going to church. We’re a team, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

Facing the Challenge Head-On

Patrice was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes 15 years ago. Despite initial uncertainties, she found strength in her family and faith, navigating her condition while staying active in her community. But the Ward family took another hit when Calvin received a type 2 diabetes diagnosis in 2019.

“Calvin’s diagnosis was shocking. When he was hospitalized, his blood sugar levels were so high that doctors struggled to get a reading,” said Patrice. The Wards now want to share their story to help inform and foster discussions about type 2 diabetes.

The Impact of Type 2 Diabetes

Two in five Americans will develop type 2 diabetes,3 and even when meeting A1C goals, adults living with type 2 diabetes are still at risk for major cardiovascular events such as stroke, heart attack, or cardiovascular death.4-5 For Black Americans like the Wards, the numbers are even more staggering: in the U.S., Black adults are nearly twice as likely as white adults to develop type 2 diabetes.6

“The unfortunate reality is that Black Americans are disproportionately impacted by common risk factors associated with type 2 diabetes,” said Dr. Michael Radin, Executive Medical Director at Novo Nordisk. “We must work together to address this concerning reality and improve this trend, using every opportunity to educate each other on the risks associated with type 2 diabetes.”

Tackling Type 2 Diabetes: A Treatment Plan that Works

For the Wards, finding a reliable type 2 diabetes management plan was the most crucial play. With guidance from their trusted healthcare professional, Patrice and Calvin have both, along with diet and exercise, lowered their A1C with Ozempic® (semaglutide) injection. Millions of people with type 2 diabetes have taken Ozempic® as part of their type 2 diabetes management plan.

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What is Ozempic®?

Ozempic® (semaglutide) injection 0.5 mg, 1 mg, or 2 mg is an injectable prescription medicine used:

  • along with diet and exercise to improve blood sugar (glucose) in adults with type 2 diabetes
  • to reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events such as heart attack, stroke, or death in adults with type 2 diabetes with known heart disease

It is not known if Ozempic® can be used in people who have had pancreatitis.
Ozempic® is not for use in people with type 1 diabetes.
It is not known if Ozempic® is safe and effective for use in children under 18 years of age.

Important Safety Information

Do not share your Ozempic® pen with other people, even if the needle has been changed. You may give other people a serious infection, or get a serious infection from them.

What is the most important information I should know about Ozempic®?

Ozempic® may cause serious side effects, including:

  • Possible thyroid tumors, including cancer. Tell your health care provider if you get a lump or swelling in your neck, hoarseness, trouble swallowing, or shortness of breath. These may be symptoms of thyroid cancer. In studies with rodents, Ozempic® and medicines that work like Ozempic® caused thyroid tumors, including thyroid cancer. It is not known if Ozempic® will cause thyroid tumors or a type of thyroid cancer called medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) in people
  • Do not use Ozempic® if you or any of your family have ever had MTC, or if you have an endocrine system condition called Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2)

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The Power of Community

Whether cheering on Cam at the football field or volunteering in their community, the Wards hope to empower others to prioritize and take control of their type 2 diabetes.

“From my own experience, I learned quickly that type 2 diabetes symptoms should not be ignored,” said Calvin. “When it comes to your health, it’s important to take control from the start and talk to your doctor about a treatment plan that works for you. My hope is that this story can help those, who may be ignoring their type 2 diabetes symptoms, avoid what I went through.”

A 2022 survey found that nearly 55% of men do not get regular health screenings.7 Taking care of your health means seeking help—by fostering open dialogue with healthcare professionals, friends, and family about type 2 diabetes, and exploring its risks, hereditary aspects, and associated complications.

“Though my story is unique to me, I want others with type 2 diabetes to see what’s possible with the power of community,” Patrice says. “I hope our story shows that supporting each other should be a fundamental part of your type 2 diabetes game plan.”

To learn more about the Ward family, type 2 diabetes, and Ozempic®, visit Real Ozempic® Stories on Ozempic.com.

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Important Safety Information (continued)

Do not use Ozempic® if:

  • you or any of your family have ever had MTC or if you have MEN 2
  • you are allergic to semaglutide or any of the ingredients in Ozempic®. See symptoms of serious allergic reaction in “What are the possible side effects of Ozempic®?”

Before using Ozempic®, tell your health care provider if you have any other medical conditions, including if you:

  • have or have had problems with your pancreas or kidneys.
  • have a history of diabetic retinopathy.
  • are scheduled to have surgery or other procedures that use anesthesia or deep sleepiness (deep sedation)
  • are pregnant or breastfeeding or plan to become pregnant or breastfeed. It is not known if Ozempic® will harm your unborn baby or passes into your breast milk. You should stop using Ozempic® 2 months before you plan to become pregnant

Tell your health care provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, herbal supplements, and other medicines to treat diabetes, including insulin or sulfonylureas.

What are the possible side effects of Ozempic®?

Ozempic® may cause serious side effects, including:

  • inflammation of your pancreas (pancreatitis). Stop using Ozempic® and call your health care provider right away if you have severe pain in your stomach area (abdomen) that will not go away, with or without vomiting. You may feel the pain from your abdomen to your back
  • changes in vision. Tell your health care provider if you have changes in vision during treatment with Ozempic®
  • low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). Your risk for getting low blood sugar may be higher if you use Ozempic® with another medicine that can cause low blood sugar, such as a sulfonylurea or insulin. Signs and symptoms of low blood sugar may include: dizziness or lightheadedness, blurred vision, anxiety, irritability or mood changes, sweating, slurred speech, hunger, confusion or drowsiness, shakiness, weakness, headache, fast heartbeat, and feeling jittery
  • kidney problems (kidney failure). In people who have kidney problems, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting may cause a loss of fluids (dehydration), which may cause kidney problems to get worse. It is important for you to drink fluids to help reduce your chance of dehydration
  • serious allergic reactions. Stop using Ozempic® and get medical help right away if you have any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat; problems breathing or swallowing; severe rash or itching; fainting or feeling dizzy; or very rapid heartbeat
  • gallbladder problems. Gallbladder problems have happened in some people who take Ozempic®. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get symptoms which may include: pain in your upper stomach (abdomen), fever, yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), or clay-colored stools
  • food or liquid getting into the lungs during surgery or other procedures that use anesthesia or deep sleepiness (deep sedation). Ozempic® may increase the chance of food getting into your lungs during surgery or other procedures. Tell all your healthcare providers that you are taking Ozempic® before you are scheduled to have surgery or other procedures

The most common side effects of Ozempic® may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach (abdominal) pain, and constipation.

Please click here for Prescribing Information and Medication Guide.

References

  1. CDC. National diabetes statistics report. Diabetes. Published 2024. Accessed September 2024. https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/php/data­ research/index.html.
  2. CDC. About Type 2 Diabetes. Diabetes. Published 2024. Accessed October 2024. https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/about/abouttype2­ diabetes.html
  3. CDC. 2 in 5 Americans Expected to Develop Diabetes. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Published 2022. Accessed October 2024. https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/communicationresources/2in5­ americans.html#:~:text=Graphic%20text%3A%202%20in%205,2%20diabetes%20in%20their%20lifetime.
  4. American Heart Association. Cardiovascular Disease and Diabetes. www.heart.org. Published 2021. https://www.heart.org/en/health topics/diabetes/diabetescomplicationsandrisks/cardiovasculardiseasediabetes
  5. Martín-Timón I, Sevillano-Collantes C, Segura-Galindo A, Del Cañizo-Gómez FJ. Type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease: Have all risk factors the same strength?. World J Diabetes. 2014;5(4):444-470. doi:10.4239/wjd.v5.i4.444
  6. Association of Modifiable Risk Factors in Young Adulthood With Racial Disparity in Incident Type 2 Diabetes During Middle Adulthood. Bancks MP, Kershaw K, Carson AP, GordonLarsen P, Schreiner PJ, Carnethon MR. JAMA. 2017 Dec 26;318(24):24572465. doi: 10.1001/jama.2017.19546. PMID: 29279935.
  7. Cleveland Clinic. Cleveland Clinic Survey Reveals Men’s Top Health Concerns as They Age. Accessed September 2024. https://newsroom.clevelandclinic.org/2022/09/07/clevelandclinicsurveyrevealsmenstophealthconcernsastheyage

Novo Nordisk is a registered trademark of Novo Nordisk A/S.

© 2024 Novo Nordisk All rights reserved. US24OZM00789 December 2024

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6 creative ways to save on healthcare using your Medicare Advantage OTC allowance

2024-12-19T11:35:00

(BPT) – Did you know that if you’re on a Medicare Advantage plan, you most likely have an over-the-counter (OTC) allowance to help offset the costs of everyday healthcare items? Millions of Medicare Advantage beneficiaries have access to this key benefit, but most don’t use it. According to a study by The Consumer Healthcare Products Association, 70% of OTC benefits are never used, leaving billions of dollars on the table. They also found that on average, every dollar spent on OTC medicines saves the U.S. healthcare system $7.33, resulting in an overall annual savings of $167.1 billion. It is time to double-check your health care plan and make sure you’re taking advantage of all your benefits and supporting your everyday care routines.

How Medicare Advantage OTC plans can help you save

Medicare Advantage enrollment has been on a steady climb for the past two decades. In fact, this year, over half of the eligible Medicare population (ages 65 and older) are enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan.

Most Medicare Advantage plans offer OTC allowance benefits, providing an average of $400 in annual allowances per beneficiary to help with practicing everyday self-care. These can be used to pay for certain non-prescription items, including health and wellness products.

However, OTC allowances are a use-it-or-lose-it benefit under many plans. The allowance may not roll over into the new plan cycle, whether it’s on a monthly, quarterly or annual basis — it’s crucial to make the most of them while they last.

Check with your provider to understand how often you receive a new OTC allowance balance, so you don’t miss out. From OTC medications to dental care and skincare products, many of your favorite items may be eligible to purchase with your OTC allowance.

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Not sure how to spend your benefits? Kenvue, the world’s largest pure-play consumer health company by revenue with 135+ years of experience, is working to help beneficiaries understand and get the most from their OTC allowance to practice everyday self-care. Check out these six suggestions for ways to use this benefit.

1. Pain and arthritis

Do you regularly buy medications for your pain and arthritis symptoms? The next time you head to the pharmacy, use your allowance to purchase pain medication like TYLENOL® 8-Hour Arthritis Pain Relief to relieve your minor arthritis pain.

2. Cold, cough and flu

Although you can get the cold, flu or a bad cough any time of year, these conditions tend to be more prevalent during the colder months. Now is a perfect time to be prepared with products to relieve your cold, cough and flu symptoms. Make sure to have products like SUDAFED® and TYLENOL® Cold & Flu on hand so you don’t have to run to the store when you’re already feeling ill.

3. Digestive health

Whether you regularly suffer from stomach issues, get occasional heartburn, or want to be proactive about your gut health, hit up your local drugstore for digestive health products. For example, pick up a bottle of PEPCID® Complete to help reduce stomach acid levels and keep heartburn at bay after a hefty meal.

4. Skincare

Are you ready to revamp your skincare routine? Use your OTC allowance to take care of your skin with quality products like Aveeno® Eczema Therapy.

Don’t forget to pick up eligible suncare products as well! You need to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays all year round — not just during the summer. Get in the habit of incorporating SPF items like Neutrogena’s® line of suncare products, including outdoor essentials like Sport Active Defense SPF 30, Ultra Sheer Lotion SPF 70 and Beach Defense Spray SPF 70, into your skincare routine.

5. Dental care

Impress your dentist and invest in your oral health with OTC-eligible dental care items. For example, LISTERINE® products including LISTERINE® Cool Mint are great for keeping that smile fresh and healthy.

6. First aid

Have you ever had a cut or scrape and found out you’re out of bandages? Avoid this frustrating scenario by restocking your medicine cabinet with must-have items from BAND-AID® Brand such as BAND-AID® Brand Pro Heal™, which provide 60% better healing† and are designed to help prevent the appearance of scars**.

Note: Before buying any of these products, be sure to read your plan for product eligibility and allowance usage as plans do vary. Contact your provider for the different methods with which you can spend your allowance, which typically include:

  • Catalog, online, phone or mail order through your provider
  • Submitting receipts for reimbursement to your provider, or
  • Using an OTC debit card at retailers

Don’t wait to invest in your everyday health

Make the most of your Medicare Advantage OTC benefits to improve your everyday care. To learn more about these and other OTC-eligible products, visit kenvuebrands.com/us/medadvantage.

†Based on a 7-day average of percentage of subjects showing improvement of general wound appearance compared to standard of care

**Hydrocolloids create an optimal moist healing environment

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5 sous vide recipes that are sure to impress holiday guests

2024-12-19T10:35:00

(BPT) – The holiday season is the time for hosts and home chefs to shine. Of course, cooking a holiday feast for friends and family is time-consuming, and with so many moving parts, accidents do happen. However, for this year’s feasts, you can perfectly cook your holiday dishes and save time using sous vide, the preferred cooking method by Michelin-starred chefs from around the world.

What is sous vide?

Sous vide (pronounced sue-veed) is French for “under vacuum.” The cooking technique involves vacuum sealing food in a pouch and submerging it in water to slow-cook at a constant, precise temperature.

“Sous vide has been the go-to method in some of the world’s best restaurants for years — and for good reason: it brings food to the precise temperature chefs look for and delivers perfect doneness, edge-to-edge, every time,” said Signature Kitchen Suite’s Executive Chef Nick Ritchie.

Are you ready to take your holiday meals to the next level? Try one (or all) of the following sous vide holiday recipes.

1. Seared sous vide scallops

Cooking scallops can be daunting. When preparing in a pan, you run the risk of overcooking them — resulting in a chewy, rubbery texture — or undercooking them, leaving the scallops raw in the middle. However, when you sous vide scallops, you can rest easy knowing they’ll be cooked evenly.

Chef Ritchie’s recipe uses the sous vide method to infuse scallops with tarragon, lemon, olive oil and salt. After 20 minutes in the bath, you’ll quickly sear them for about 60 seconds on each side. When done, you’ll have four perfectly cooked tender scallops that will melt in your mouth. You can serve them on their own as appetizers or on a bed of risotto as the main dish.

2. Sous vide poached egg salad

For a filling and protein-forward meal for lunch or dinner, mix up a batch of sous vide poached egg salad. If you’ve never poached an egg before, no worries. A sous vide bath will ensure you have perfectly poached eggs every time.

Chef Ritchie’s mix of eggs, lettuce, radicchio, goat cheese and walnuts is well complemented by a warm bacon dressing. In addition to savory bacon, the dressing features aromatic garlic and thyme, as well as grapes!

3. Sous vide fennel-spiced pork loin chops

Pork chops are a great addition to any holiday meal, especially when they’re well seasoned. Chef Ritchie’s recipe for pork loin chops incorporates the licorice-like taste of fennel, the citrusy pepperiness of coriander and the earthy quality of rosemary.

By sous videing the pork loins, you don’t have to worry about serving a dry piece of meat. Your guests will enjoy tender, moist and juicy pork chops that are great on their own but also pair well with sous vide braised cabbage and glazed apples.

4. Sous vide poached winter fruit

Want to make a dessert that looks impressive but is incredibly easy to prepare? Try Chef Ritchie’s recipe for sous vide poached winter fruit. While this recipe calls for persimmons, it works well with most fruits, including apples, pears, quince, peaches and apricots.

You can poach fruits the traditional way on a stove, but when you sous vide fruits, the process brings out and enhances the fruit’s powerful and rich flavor. It also preserves fruit’s freshness and offers a longer shelf life, so you can enjoy this delicious dessert well into the new year.

5. Sous vide honey-thyme glazed turnips

Turnips aren’t usually the star of the show. However, this sous vide honey-thyme glazed turnip recipe may inspire you to make more meals with the humble root vegetable.

Chef Ritchie’s instructions are very simple. You’ll seal the prepared turnips in a sous vide pouch with butter, seasoning and honey. After an hour in the sous vide, you’ll pour the pouch contents onto a pan to quickly saute the turnips and reduce the glaze. Once garnished, you’ll have a lovely plate of tasty tender turnips.

Your secret weapon this holiday season and beyond

You can sous vide this holiday season and year-round with the right appliances. Luxury kitchen appliance brand Signature Kitchen Suite features the first and only built-in sous vide right on the cooktop along with gas and induction. Get professional-level results every time and capture the full, true flavors of foods. It’s the ultimate gift that meets all your hosting needs in one appliance.

To learn more about Signature Kitchen Suite and to find more recipes, visit SignatureKitchenSuite.com/en-us/.

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4 must-have laptops for everyone on your list

2024-12-19T11:01:00

(BPT) – The last days of holiday shopping are here! You’ve made your wish list, and now you’re checking it twice to ensure your friends and family (and, on occasion, yourself) receive the best gifts possible. If you haven’t wrapped up your shopping yet and are on the hunt for a gift that’s fun and functional, look no further than the latest cutting-edge laptops as the ultimate choice for anyone on your list.

AI-powered laptops are a wonderful gift that someone can use every day for work, school and play. When looking for reliable laptops, choose those powered by the Snapdragon X Series. Snapdragon X Elite and Snapdragon X Plus will blow your expectations away, enabling you to enter the new year with reliable and powerful tech.

Before you hit the stores or check out your options online, take a moment to review these top four laptops for the 2024 holiday season.

1. Dell Inspiron 14 Plus

Finding a mainstream laptop that you can count on for day-to-day multitasking and casual gaming may sound like a tall order. However, the Dell Inspiron 14 Plus laptop delivers all of this and more. Its slim and light yet robust aluminum design is perfect for high school and college students who need a durable and transportable device at home and on campus.

The Inspiron 14 Plus powered by Snapdragon X Plus simplifies your every day, allowing you to fly through your to-do list thanks to Copilot+. You’ll get tasks faster and find time to do what matters most with your personal AI assistant. Don’t worry about your laptop overheating from running multiple applications or gaming — this laptop is designed with advanced thermal cooling to keep heat in check, allowing you to use it on your lap comfortably for extended periods.

This laptop is a budget-friendly option for users who desire responsive performance and exceptional battery life virtually anywhere. So, whether you’re online shopping, planning your next vacation or kick-starting research for your next class project, you can do it all and do it quickly with the help of AI.

2. Lenovo Yoga Slim 7x

Bring your imagination to life with this creative sidekick that knows what you need before you do. The Lenovo Yoga Slim 7x boasts fast processing speed, multi-day battery life and a beautiful 14.5-inch OLED high-resolution display, perfect for the creatives in your life. Best of all, it offers premium performance for all your needs.

Powered by Snapdragon X Elite, this laptop is crafted to elevate your artistry with a battery that allows you to create untethered for days at a time. The processor allows users access to features like text-to-image, advanced photo and video editing functionalities, text creation and editing feedback, and other functions that free up time to work on new creative endeavors.

Also, the built-in AI allows digital artists and designers to spend less time editing, rendering, and processing and more time creating their work to share with the world as they roam the globe.

3. Acer Swift 14 AI

The Acer Swift 14 AI laptop is like an all-terrain vehicle built for the future. Its built-in AI seamlessly integrates into your everyday PC tasks to save you time and boost productivity. This laptop is perfect for the person on your list who needs a laptop refresh with the capability to do it all.

Like other Snapdragon X Series laptops, it offers exceptional performance and is built to handle users’ most demanding tasks with ease. Whether they use generative AI tools, need to tackle intense workloads or require multitasking that doesn’t quit, this laptop stands ready to meet and exceed the challenge.

The Acer Swift 14 AI also delivers stellar connectivity. Thanks to Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4 connectivity, along with various port options with two USB Type-C ports (supporting USB 4 and USB charging), two USB Type-A 3.2 ports and HDMI 2.1, you’ll never have to worry about keeping adapters on hand. Not to mention, the multi-day battery life and affordable price point make it an attractive choice as a present to others or yourself!

4. HP Omnibook X

Remote and hybrid work is no longer an exclusive privilege for some employees. It’s become an expected and widely adopted work style. If you work from home, on the road and in the office, you’ll need a laptop like the HP OmniBook X.

This laptop’s long-lasting battery life, premium design, powerful performance and AI are a must-have for digital nomads. The built-in AI is particularly useful for those seeking a more personalized experience. Every time you use this laptop, the more personalized it becomes.

Those who need an ultrapowerful, ultraportable and ultra-responsive laptop for marathon use will appreciate this laptop this holiday season and beyond.

You can’t go wrong by picking any of these four options. They’re powerful, portable and offer AI capabilities to keep everyone on your list creative and productive. You can purchase any of these laptops online and in person at your local Best Buy.

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5 simple tips to turn leftovers into new tasty meals

2024-12-19T08:01:00

(BPT) – A holiday gathering wouldn’t be complete without a feast. Sharing a meal with friends and family encourages conversation and bonding, not to mention the opportunity to show off your culinary skills. However, it’s important to keep in mind that large holiday meals can easily produce food waste.

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Americans waste approximately 30%-40% of the food supply. When cooking for a large group — like a holiday feast — it’s easy to overprepare and end up with more leftovers than you know what to do with.

This holiday season, don’t worry about wasting food. KitchenAid — the #1 mixer brand in the world* — is here to help you turn your holiday leftovers into new tasty meals. Try these five creative tips that can transform the dreaded leftovers into delicious dishes.

1. A hot meal to warm your bones

Gather leftover vegetables, meats and bones and throw them into a Dutch Oven. In no time, you’ll have warm soup or stew to enjoy on those cold winter days. You can also make stock that you can freeze and use in dishes in the new year!

2. Easy and hearty handhelds

Leftover turkey and ham make for a great protein base for quick meals. Whether you have sandwiches, tacos or wraps on the menu, repurposing your holiday protein can be quick, easy, and delicious.

Just choose your favorite or mix and match! If you have leftover cranberry sauce or roasted sweet potatoes, these can also be great additions.

3. Taters for breakfast

Do you have loads of leftover mashed or sweet potatoes? Use these tasty spuds to create savory twists of breakfast staples like pancakes and waffles.

Grab your favorite recipe and use your KitchenAid Artisan Series 5 Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer to incorporate these sweet or mashed potatoes into the batter. After cooking, consider topping with chives or even cranberry sauce.

4. Whip up a decadent dessert

Eggnog on its own is a decadent seasonal treat. If you have leftover cartons of eggnog after your family get-together, use your mixer to transform that eggnog into whipped cream.

This eggnog whipped cream will add a rich, creamy and spiced flavor to leftover pie slices — especially pumpkin pies. Also, consider blending eggnog into frosting to top any leftover holiday cookies.

5. Layer leftovers into a casserole

Casseroles are the perfect format for leftovers. Simply layer meat, gravy and veggies into an oven-safe dish, refrigerate and reheat the next day. You can even simplify the process by creating the casserole when you clean up after a holiday gathering.

Bonus! To make these and other dishes with ease, gift yourself The KitchenAid 2024 Design Series Stand Mixer in Evergreen. It’s the perfect holiday appliance that makes cooking and baking simple and serves as an eye-catching kitchen decoration that you can appreciate year-round.

Follow these five holiday tips that will help you reduce your food waste and hopefully inspire you to create leftover dishes in the new year. To learn more, visit KitchenAid.com.

*Source Euromonitor International Limited; based on custom research conducted October 2023 for value sales (in USD) in 2023 through all retail channels.

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How to stay strong for surgery

2024-12-18T15:11:00

(BPT) – By Michael J. Sutherland, MD, MBA, FACS

Every year, more than 15 million Americans undergo surgery. For many, the prospect of having surgery can feel overwhelming, prompting worries and unease about recovery. But the process of having surgery doesn’t have to be daunting — and simple steps and habits can make a significant difference in outcomes.

At the American College of Surgeons, the largest professional association of surgeons in the world, we have a free resource, Strong for Surgery (www.facs.org/for-patients/preparing-for-surgery/strong-for-surgery/), that provides patients with practical tips to navigate their surgical journey. While there is no “one-size-fits-all” approach to preparing for and recovering from surgery, practicing healthy daily habits and having candid conversations with your care team about your goals can greatly improve your results.

Eat to Heal

Good nutrition will help at every step along your surgical journey. Eating well begins by planning a nutritious meal that includes a balance of protein-rich foods, whole grains, healthy fats, fruits and vegetables — all of which play a role in nourishing the body with enough calories, protein, vitamins and minerals. We recommend eating at least three times a day, and increasing fiber intake, if tolerated. Aim to include protein-rich foods with each meal, such as lean meat, fish, poultry, beans, eggs, cheese, nuts, tofu, milk, cottage cheese and yogurt. If you cannot meet your requirements with meals, consider supplementing your diet with healthy snacks, additional proteins or vitamins. Make sure to stay hydrated, and drink sufficient water each day.

Before surgery, many patients are required to temporarily stop eating and drinking. Your care team will advise on when it is safe to resume eating and drinking. Be sure to follow their recommendations both before and after surgery and ask any questions.

Engage in Healthy Habits

Generally, the more fit and active you are before surgery, the better you will function after surgery. Your care team can work with you before your surgery to improve your fitness, which can facilitate your recovery and help you maintain your strength. Often called “prehabilitation,” your doctor may recommend exercises or refer you to specialized physical therapists who can design a therapy and exercise plan to target any physical limitations that you may be experiencing.

Other risk factors, such as smoking, obesity and high blood pressure, are also important to manage before and after surgery. Smoking can increase the risk of complications after surgery, making it harder for you to recover from anesthesia and increasing the risk of infection. If you currently smoke, ask your surgeon about ways you can quit smoking. There are many effective options to help people quit smoking, including medications and tailored programs that offer empathetic and personalized support.

Be Empowered to Ask Questions

There are many considerations when making plans to have surgery.

Our Strong for Surgery guide and Geriatric Surgery Patient checklist (www.facs.org/gsvpatient) include printable handouts that you can download and print for free to help you prepare your questions before an appointment, prepare your list of medicines and supplements, and keep track of your notes during appointments.

Together, these small steps can make a big difference in surgical outcomes — and optimize your chances to stay healthy and strong before and after surgery.

Text adapted from the Strong for Surgery guide of the American College of Surgeons (www.facs.org/for-patients/preparing-for-surgery/strong-for-surgery/).

Michael J. Sutherland, MD, MBA, FACS, is a trauma and general surgeon and the Senior Vice President for Member Services at the American College of Surgeons.

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How to help your kids build healthy money habits in 2025

2024-12-18T17:01:00

(BPT) – As you look ahead to the new year, you may think about ways to help your kids succeed in life as they navigate their way through school — whether that means elementary school, high school or college — and eventually into adulthood. While money can be a tricky topic to navigate, especially if it was a taboo topic when you were younger, start the conversation to help them benefit from your experiences. Finding tools together that can help kids learn how to best manage their own finances as they grow and mature will help set them up for financial success in the years to come.

To help you get started, here are tips that make it easier for kids of all ages to learn how to save, budget and begin managing their finances more independently.

1. Start the conversation

Even when kids are in elementary school, start talking about money in a realistic way so they can understand how it’s used to support your lifestyle. Begin the conversation in an age-appropriate way that highlights ideas such as knowing the difference between needs and wants, saving for something special and tracking the money you earn as well as the money you spend. For example, young children can understand the idea of saving up money from their allowance or lemonade stand to buy something they want in the future.

2. Take notes and use tools

As your kids get older, explain the budgeting basics — even as simple as listing what you earn and what you spend, so you can ensure you won’t spend more than you have. Any leftover money is best put in savings first, then they can consider working toward items or experiences they might want to buy. There are many budgeting resources out there, so you can find the one that works for you, including budget worksheets to track spending. The Snapshot feature in the Chase Mobile app provides a daily digest of spending, highlighting top categories to help them plan accordingly.

3. Get organized and go digital

Financial confidence starts with getting organized. You can find easy-to-use budgeting tools that work for kids and parents both, with different levels of parental oversight and management suitable for different age groups.

For example, accounts like Chase First Banking are designed with students ages 6-12 in mind (and available for kids 6-17) with parents having full ownership. The account gives kids tools, tips and safety features to help them learn money basics — all with no monthly service fee.

Students ages 13-17 can opt for Chase High School CheckingSM — a checking account co-owned with a parent to provide oversight and monitoring — which offers tools and resources for students to learn how to manage their money with confidence, all with no monthly service fee. This is ideal for kids with jobs who need direct deposit, and they can pay friends with Zelle. This checking account helps high school students with these firsthand digital transactions and account balances which can help with budgeting and saving.

Mom and elementary school age daughter using an app on a tabet that is connected to a banking account.

Chase College CheckingSM is available to students ages 17-24 in college, university, community college, or a vocation or technical school, providing access to digital banking tools to help them stay on top of their finances throughout the semester. Chase College Checking gives students the tools and resources to manage their money independently, with no monthly service fee for up to five years while in school.

College student using an app on her phone to deposit a check while sitting on a couch in her dorm room.

4. Plan for the future

According to Bankrate, 59% of Americans are uncomfortable with the amount of emergency savings they have, and 27% have no emergency fund at all. It’s important for kids of all ages to know that unexpected events in life can happen, and planning ahead may help reduce stress and better cope with whatever may occur. For this reason, building an emergency fund or saving for a rainy day is a crucial skill to learn. Features like AutoSave will help them set, track and meet savings goals to help them prepare for the future.

Throughout their formative years, your kids can start learning and practicing vital money skills that will stay with them for life, as well as how to use financial tools so they will be able to stay on top of their finances and achieve their goals.

Learn more about all the options available to get your kids started on the right financial footing at Chase.com/studentbanking.

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.

Zelle and the Zelle related marks are wholly owned by Early Warning Services, LLC and are used herein under license.

Deposit products provided by JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. Member FDIC.

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2 crucial New Year’s tasks to help protect your home and belongings

2024-12-18T19:01:00

(BPT) – The beginning of a new year is a time when many people take stock of their lives, addressing important tasks like getting wellness exams or scheduling home maintenance. To help protect your home and property, these two steps should be at the top of your list: Getting an annual insurance check, and taking a home inventory. These steps can help you have peace of mind that you’ve got the coverage you need, should the unthinkable happen.

Here’s why it’s so important to do these tasks on an annual basis, from the experts at State Farm Insurance.

Annual insurance checks

Scheduling an annual insurance conversation with your insurance agent gives you the opportunity to ask questions about your home coverage, as well as ensure that all your vehicles are adequately covered — and new drivers are added to your coverage.

During your annual check, your agent can help you estimate the replacement cost of your home. While the amount of coverage you select is ultimately your choice, your agent can explain your options so you’ll make an informed decision based on the amount of coverage to rebuild if necessary. This is also a good time to ensure that you’ve told your agent about changes to your home that may impact your coverage needs, such as additions or remodeling.

It’s critical to understand the difference between the market value of your home and the replacement cost:

  • Market value: the amount a buyer would pay for your home, including the land, regardless of how much it would cost to rebuild the home.
  • Replacement cost: the rebuilding cost necessary to replace your entire home.

Insurance agents recommend purchasing an amount of coverage at least equal to the estimated replacement cost, but the choice is yours. To determine the most accurate current replacement cost for your home, you could ask if a replacement cost estimate is available during a home appraisal, or consult a local builders association or reputable builder for an estimate. Building contractors or professional replacement cost appraisers are good sources for determining the estimated replacement cost of your home.

When you upgrade or improve your home, you may need to increase your home’s estimated replacement cost, which is another good reason to reevaluate this regularly. Replacement cost estimates are also influenced by labor and materials costs that are subject to change, so keeping up with the current market conditions in your area and changing your home insurance coverage amount accordingly will help you maintain coverage that’s at least equal to 100% of your estimated replacement cost.

Since it’s impossible to predict what the exact cost will be to replace your home in the future, assessing this amount annually means you’ll be more likely to have enough coverage to account for unforeseen circumstances.

Why a home inventory is crucial

Before scheduling your annual insurance check, take a complete home inventory so your records are up to date. It’s easy to be unaware of how many belongings accumulate in your home over time, which is why it’s key for homeowners to conduct a home and personal property inventory before a catastrophe or unexpected damage might occur. A home inventory is an excellent way to make sure you will be able to replace things in your home including furniture, home essentials, clothing and more.

Whether you live in an apartment or a house, a home inventory is an excellent way to help you make the best homeowners or renters insurance decisions. This will also expedite insurance claims in the event of theft, damage or loss. While it may sound daunting, there are three ways to make your inventory, so choose the method that seems easiest to you.

  • Written inventory: List your belongings, including item descriptions (make, model and serial number, if applicable), value and purchase date. Create your list using a spreadsheet, or fill out a home inventory checklist that’s ready to go, like a checklist from State Farm Insurance. Gather documents like receipts or photos that support your inventory.
  • Digital inventory: If you have a smart phone, there are downloadable apps, some of them free, to help you make a digital inventory. Home inventory apps let you record a photo of each item along with its description, value and purchase date.
  • Visual record: You can use a visual record of your possessions to show proof of ownership with a video walk-through of your home, or through a series of photographs.

Another option is combining a couple of these methods, if that works best for you. Making an accurate, up-to-date record of your insurable assets will help you determine the right amount of insurance coverage you need.

For additional tips and to help you get started, check out the blog “How to Create a Home Inventory” at StateFarm.com/simple-insights.

This content sponsored by State Farm

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From Uncertainty to Strength: Navigating Life with Cervical Cancer

2024-12-18T09:01:00

(BPT) – Sponsored by Pfizer Inc. and Genmab A/S

It never occurred to Courtney that the difficulties she was having with sleeping and breathing could be cancer. Then, she was rushed to the emergency room and a CT scan revealed masses. Courtney, a 44-year-old pharmacy technician from Wilmington, North Carolina, was shocked to be diagnosed with Stage 3 cervical cancer.

“It was all just kind of a whirlwind, like, ‘Oh my God. This is really happening,'” said Courtney. “Other than being screened for cervical cancer at my gynecologist, I knew hardly anything about it.”

The American Cancer Society estimates that in 2024, there will be 13,820 new cases of cervical cancer diagnosed.i These numbers have improved since the mid-1970s due to advancements in vaccination and screening practices but, despite this progress, it’s projected that this year about 4,360 women will die from the disease.i This underscores the need for more treatment options.

Following her initial diagnosis, Courtney began a treatment regimen, undergoing a hysterectomy and trying numerous therapies. When she progressed after first-line treatment, she was diagnosed with recurrent cervical cancer. “That was really scary. It was a very hard Thanksgiving that year.”

When cervical cancer comes back (recurs) or spreads (metastasizes), treatment options are limited, and survival rates are as low as 19.4%.ii The outlook can feel bleak for patients and their loved ones. That’s why for patients, particularly those like Courtney who are facing a challenging prognosis, having an open discussion with healthcare providers and ensuring full understanding of treatment options is critical. By staying informed and exploring all options, patients can take an active role in their care and overall treatment journey.

Courtney recalls taking to the internet, researching potential treatment options in between appointments. “TIVDAK® (tisotumab vedotin-tftv) for injection came up, and I wanted to learn everything about it. I was excited to try something else, that could possibly work for me.”

After much consideration, Courtney and her medical team chose TIVDAK as her next treatment option. TIVDAK is a prescription medicine used to treat adults with cervical cancer that has returned or has spread to other parts of the body, and who have received chemotherapy that did not work or is no longer working. It is an antibody-drug conjugate (ADC), which attacks cells that have a special protein, called Tissue Factor. The special protein, Tissue Factor, is also present on some normal cells. So TIVDAK can still harm normal cells, which can cause side effects. In a clinical trial of 502 adult patients with cervical cancer that has returned or spread and who have received chemotherapy that did not or is no longer working, the patients in the TIVDAK group had a median overall survival of 11.5 months, versus 9.5 months for those treated with chemotherapy.

Eye problems are common with TIVDAK and can be severe. TIVDAK can cause changes to the surface of your eye that can lead to dry eyes, eye redness, eye irritation, corneal ulcers, blurred vision, and severe vision loss. Tell your healthcare provider if you develop new or worsening vision changes or eye problems during treatment. Serious side effects of TIVDAK may include eye problems, nerve problems (peripheral neuropathy), bleeding problems (hemorrhage), lung problems, and severe skin reactions. These are not all of the side effects of TIVDAK. Please see below for more Important Safety Information and click here for the full Prescribing Information with Medication Guide.

“[Since starting TIVDAK], I feel positive. I feel hopeful,” Courtney says. “It was a really great option for me. I’m still on therapy.” While these were Courtney’s experiences at the time of publishing, TIVDAK will not work for everyone, and individual results may vary.

Having a support system was crucial for Courtney as she navigated treatment. In addition to feeling bolstered by her healthcare providers, husband, family and work colleagues, Courtney also found support in online patient and caregiver communities.

“It’s been amazing the support that comes around you – sometimes from people you didn’t even expect. It’s been surprising and very encouraging. There are people working every day to help people just like me. I’m so thankful for that.”

If you or a loved one has previously treated recurrent or metastatic cervical cancer, speak with your healthcare provider about whether TIVDAK could be part of your treatment plan.

What is TIVDAK?

TIVDAK is a prescription medicine used to treat adults with cervical cancer:

  • that has returned or has spread to other parts of the body, and
  • who have received chemotherapy that did not work or is no longer working.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

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

Eye problems are common with TIVDAK and can be severe. TIVDAK can cause changes to the surface of your eye that can lead to dry eyes, eye redness, eye irritation, corneal ulcers, blurred vision, and severe vision loss. Tell your healthcare provider if you develop new or worsening vision changes or eye problems during treatment.

Your healthcare provider will send you to an eye specialist to check your eyes before you start treatment with TIVDAK, before each infusion for your first 9 infusions of TIVDAK, and as needed for any new or worsening signs or symptoms of eye problems. Your healthcare provider will ask if you have any signs or symptoms of eye problems before each infusion. You will be referred to an eye specialist for any new or worsening signs or symptoms of eye problems.

Your healthcare provider will prescribe 3 different types of eye drops before you start treatment with TIVDAK. Bring the eye drops with you to each infusion and use them as directed by your healthcare provider to reduce your risk of eye problems:

  • Use 1 drop of steroid eye drops in each eye before each infusion and continue to use your eye drops
  • 3 times a day for 3 days after each infusion
  • Use vasoconstrictor eye drops right before each infusion
  • Use lubricating eye drops throughout treatment and for 30 days after your last dose of TIVDAK

Do not wear contact lenses throughout your treatment with TIVDAK unless you are told to use them by your eye specialist.

What are the possible side effects of TIVDAK?

Serious side effects of TIVDAK may include:

Eye problems. See “What is the most important information I should know about TIVDAK?“

Nerve problems (peripheral neuropathy) are common with TIVDAK and can be serious. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have new or worsening numbness or tingling in your hands or feet or muscle weakness.

Bleeding problems (hemorrhage) are common with TIVDAK and can be serious. Tell your healthcare provider or get medical help right away if you have signs or symptoms of bleeding during treatment with TIVDAK, including blood in your stools or black stools (looks like tar), blood in your urine, cough up or vomit blood, unusual vaginal bleeding, or any unusual or heavy bleeding.

Lung problems. TIVDAK may cause severe or life-threatening inflammation of the lungs that can lead to death. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have new or worsening symptoms, including trouble breathing, shortness of breath, or cough.

Severe skin reactions. TIVDAK may cause severe or life-threatening skin reactions that can lead to death. Tell your healthcare provider or get medical help right away if you have signs or symptoms of a severe skin reaction during treatment with TIVDAK, including:

  • Skin reactions that look like rings (target lesions)
  • Rash or itching that continues to get worse
  • Blistering or peeling of the skin
  • Painful sores or ulcers in your mouth, nose, throat, or genital area
  • Fever or flu-like symptoms
  • Swollen lymph nodes

The most common side effects of TIVDAK include:

  • Decreased red blood cell counts
  • Numbness or tingling in your hands or feet
  • Eye problems (conjunctival disorders)
  • Nausea
  • Tiredness
  • Changes in liver function blood tests
  • Nosebleed
  • Hair loss (alopecia)
  • Bleeding (hemorrhage)

Your healthcare provider may decrease your dose of TIVDAK, temporarily stop, or completely stop treatment if you have side effects.

What should I tell my healthcare provider before receiving TIVDAK?

Tell your healthcare provider about all your medical conditions, including if you:

  • have a history of vision or eye problems
  • have numbness or tingling in your hands or feet
  • have bleeding problems
  • have liver problems
  • are pregnant or plan to become pregnant; TIVDAK can harm your unborn baby. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant during treatment with TIVDAK
  • are breastfeeding (nursing) or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if TIVDAK passes into your breast milk. Do not breastfeed during treatment and for at least 3 weeks after the last dose of TIVDAK

Females who can become pregnant:

    • Your healthcare provider should do a pregnancy test before you start treatment with TIVDAK
    • Use an effective method of birth control during your treatment and for at least 2 months after the last dose of TIVDAK

Males with female partners who can become pregnant:

    • Use effective birth control during treatment and for 4 months after the last dose of TIVDAK

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Taking TIVDAK with certain other medicines may cause side effects.

These are not all of the possible side effects of TIVDAK. Discuss side effects with your healthcare provider. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Please see the full Prescribing Information with Medication Guide about TIVDAK including an IMPORTANT WARNING here.

The patient featured in this article is receiving or has received TIVDAK. The patient was compensated by Pfizer/Genmab to share their story. These were their experiences at the time they were interviewed. TIVDAK will not work for everyone. Individual results may vary.

Courtney was compensated for her participation.

Content sponsored and provided by Pfizer and Genmab. Courtney partnered with Pfizer and Genmab to share her experience with recurrent/metastatic cervical cancer.

i American Cancer Society. (n.d.). Key statistics for cervical cancer. Retrieved September 6, 2024, from https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/cervical-cancer/about/key-statistics.html.

ii National Cancer Institute SEER Program. “Cervical Cancer Statistics.” seer.cancer.gov. Retrieved September 6, 2024, from https://seer.cancer.gov/statistics/.