Category: Brandpoint Lifestyle

2024-02-16T15:47:00

(BPT) – Do you want to save money and electricity while modernizing your home? This Presidents Day, you can do both by taking advantage of LG’s deals now through Feb. 28.

LG is committed to providing energy-efficient solutions that are stylish and dependable for a cleaner, greener home. From thoughtful appliance features to groundbreaking technology, the company considers your wallet and the planet every step of the way. Check out these Presidents Day deals on top-rated kitchen and laundry appliances that will make your life easier and help you go green.

Keep your wardrobe fresh with an LG washer/dryer

Laundry has never been easier, thanks to LG’s washer/dryer units! The ENERGY STAR^®-certified appliances use ventless inverter HeatPump™ technology, so you can enjoy quiet operation, greater energy efficiency and advanced fabric care.

Take back your time by bringing home an LG WashCombo All-in-One, now $1,000 off. The innovative 2-in-1 appliance washes and dries laundry in under two hours. Once you push start, you can go about your day without pausing a project or show to flip laundry. Built-in AI takes the guesswork out of fabric care, automatically detecting fabric texture and load size and selecting the right wash motions, temperatures and dry motions level.

If you want separate washer and dryer appliances in a single-unit design, consider LG WashTower and save $900. The front-load washer and dryer takes up half the space of a traditional washer and dryer setup. With the saved space, you can add a sink, folding table or organizational storage to reinvent how you do laundry. Plus, unlike conventional stacked pairs, LG’s exclusive Center Control^® panel is easy to reach.

Control and monitor both appliances via the ThinQ^® app. In the app, you’ll discover ThinQ Care™, which sends usage, maintenance and diagnostic alerts straight to your phone to keep your appliances running smoothly. Meanwhile, ThinQ^® UP updates your appliances’ software, adding new features without additional purchases.

Test your culinary skills with LG cooking appliances

Are you ready to take your cooking to the next level? Impress friends and family by cooking delicious meals on an LG Smart Induction cooking appliance. The energy-efficient induction technology transfers heat directly to your cookware instead of the cooktop surface for fast heating, quick and even cooking and precise temperature control.

This Presidents Day, check out LG’s LSIL6334FE Smart Induction Slide-in Range with ProBake Convection^® and Air Fry. As the first EnergyStar-certified cooking model in the U.S., you can quickly and confidently prepare meals using energy-efficient induction. Also, the LG ProBake Convection^® oven automatically selects the lower speed for delicate baking or the higher speed for air frying and roasting.

Want even more convenience and cooking options? Look no further than LG’s LSIL6336FE Smart Induction Slide-in Range, now $500 off. You can turn out perfect batches of cookies, air fry hot wings and air sous vide meat, fish and vegetables. Also, the InstaView^® Window lets you keep track of your creations without interrupting the cooking process. Just knock twice, take a peek and rest easy.

Like its laundry counterparts, the cooktop and oven are compatible with the ThinQ app, so you can control, maintain and check your kitchen appliances from anywhere.

Bundle and save even more!

You can save up to $500 this Presidents Day when you bundle two or more eligible LG appliances. Some kitchen appliances may even qualify for a $100 instant saving per item on up to four products on installation and/or haul away.

Make this Presidents Day one to remember with savings on top-tier home appliances that offer convenience and energy efficiency. To find more Presidents Day deals, visit LG.com/US/Promotions.

2024-02-16T07:05:00

(BPT) – Whether you’re looking to expand your protein options during Lent or want to try new twists on your seafood favorites, Morey’s Fine Fish & Seafood offers plenty of easy-to-prepare, delicious frozen options that your whole family is sure to enjoy. Look for products from Morey’s for convenient and affordable ways to satisfy your inner “seafoodie” this season and all year long.

Embrace the latest flavor craze: Sweet chili

Did you know almost half of consumers (46%) say they love or like the flavor of sweet chili and, according to Datassential, 42% say that sweet chili is their most preferred Asian-style sauce? Morey’s has found a perfect pairing with Tilapia Sweet Chili, a restaurant-quality entree that features ASC-certified tilapia, frozen at the peak of freshness, along with that beloved sweet and spicy sauce.

To take this new product one step further, try this recipe that highlights Morey’s Tilapia Sweet Chili by combining it with fresh veggies and your favorite Asian-style noodles.

Tilapia Asian Noodle Bowl

This noodle bowl is packed with savory flavors thanks to ingredients like fresh ginger, sesame, cilantro, and the sweet and spicy marinade featuring notes of honey, soy, peppers and garlic. Snap peas, bell peppers, cabbage and green onions add pops of color and freshness when tossed with flaky Tilapia Sweet Chili and deliciously springy udon noodles. The veggie- and flavor-packed dish makes an easy weeknight dinner, plus you can enjoy leftovers — warm or cold — for lunch!

Prep time: 15 minutes; Cook time 15–20 minutes; Serves 2

Ingredients

1 package Morey’s Tilapia Sweet Chili, prepared according to package directions
6 ounces cooked udon noodles or other favorite Asian-style noodle
2 tablespoons coconut, avocado or olive oil
1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup snap peas, sliced in half lengthwise
1/2 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
1/2 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
2/3 cup plus 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
2 tablespoons water
1 cup red cabbage, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 green onions, sliced
2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped
1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Lime wedges

Instructions

Cook fish: Prepare Tilapia Sweet Chili fillets according to package directions.

Prepare vegetables: While the tilapia is cooking, heat oil in saute pan over medium heat. Add minced ginger and garlic and cook 1 minute. Add snap peas and bell peppers and cook 2-3 minutes, until softened. Stir in 1 tablespoon sweet chili sauce. Remove vegetables and set aside. Add 2 tablespoons water, 1 tablespoon sweet chili sauce and red cabbage, cooking until red cabbage is wilted, then remove cabbage and set aside.

To serve: Add remaining 2/3 cup sweet chili sauce, soy sauce and cooked noodles to pan. Toss to coat and heat through until noodles start to caramelize. Divide noodles on two plates, arrange cooked tilapia on top and add vegetables on the side. Garnish with green onions, cilantro, sesame seeds, squeeze of lime and extra sweet chili sauce.

Dive into a lemony fresh fan favorite

If salmon is one of your favorite varieties of fish, you’ll love Morey’s Wild Salmon Lemon Herb, which is full of fresh flavors that are just perfect for spring. This chef-inspired wild salmon dish is prepared in a citrus-style marinade that is sure to wake up your taste buds. It’s so easy to prepare that you’ll gladly — and quickly — put it together in your own kitchen rather than going out to eat, any night of the week.

Morey’s Fine Fish & Seafood offers a variety of better-for-you, premium seafood options that are easy to prepare and bold in flavor, including fillets paired with chef-inspired marinades and more. Their responsibly sourced, premium-quality seafood is the perfect way to create a five-star dinner at home for all your family and friends this Lent — and all year long.

You can find these and other products at retailers near you, and at Moreys.com.

2024-02-15T07:01:01

(BPT) – Do you remember how challenging school could be? As a parent, it’s easy to forget that studying and homework aren’t always easy. Your child needs your support and guidance to help stay on task with studies and achieve at the highest level.

Don’t know where to start? Check out these top five tips to help support your student’s educational journey so they can thrive academically this year.

1. Get organized

Messy and cluttered school supplies are a recipe for frustration. Encourage your student to keep notes and handouts organized to quickly and easily locate what is needed for any assignment. Encourage your student to pick out notebooks, folders and binders in favorite colors and designs. Let your student label or decorate front covers and assign a subject to each.

Take organization to the next level with a digital tool like the Five Star^® Study App. Using the app and Five Star compatible notebooks, folders and academic planners, your student can scan handwritten notes and handouts to access study materials anytime, anywhere!

Once digitized, your student can add, revise and arrange notes as needed, organizing materials into digital folders that correspond with physical notebook colors. The free app provides your child with the best of physical and digital studying and even turns notes and handouts into digital flashcards.

2. Create a consistent study routine

It may sound simple, but establishing a consistent study routine can go a long way to help your student succeed in school. Creating a routine develops time management and prioritization skills for tasks and projects.

Guide your student to set a time each day for homework and studying, for example right after school, before or after dinner or extracurriculars. If a certain time isn’t working, suggest a change to find a time and rhythm that works best.

No matter what time of day they choose, consistency is the most important aspect of a study routine. After a couple of weeks, the study routine will become a habit that provides consistency and stability so your child can focus on tasks with minimal distractions.

3. Set realistic goals

A large project or study packet can be overwhelming and discouraging for anyone, let alone a young scholar. Expecting to finish a large assignment or study for a big test in one sitting can seem daunting and cause undue anxiety.

Help your child avoid panic and stress by helping set realistic and achievable study goals. Demonstrate how to break down big assignments into smaller tasks, and even create a task list to check off as each one is completed.

Using a tool like the Five Star Study App, your child can set reminders for different tasks, tackle them at a steady pace, and meet deadlines, building a sense of accomplishment. More importantly, this practice fosters a growth mindset and builds perseverance.

4. Encourage handwritten notes

Typing notes may be more convenient, but handwritten notes can give your child an academic edge. Many research studies suggest that writing on paper improves recall and allows notetakers to better understand complicated concepts.

You don’t have to sacrifice the power of paper for the convenience of digital. Your student can have the best of both worlds, thanks to the Five Star brand. Students can scan handwritten notes from compatible Five Star school supplies into the study app. To learn more about the Five Star Study App, visit FiveStarBuiltStrong.com.

5. Take regular breaks

Nonstop studying can quickly lead to burnout and less productivity. During study sessions, invite your child to take a break. Take a walk together, do some quick stretches, or simply ask them to step away from the study area and go outside to get some fresh air. When returning to study, your student will feel refreshed and ready to tackle the remaining assignments.

Every child is different, so collaborate with your students to find the best strategies that fit their learning style. However your child decides to study, your support is the most important tool in their arsenal. Using these five tips and fostering a positive attitude toward learning, you can help set up your child for academic success in 2024.

2024-02-13T09:01:00

(BPT) – Seven in 10 American drivers are unaware of a vital piece of information. All-season tires aren’t built to drive in all four seasons.

It sounds counterintuitive, but it’s true: The tires used by most Americans harden when temps fall below 45 degrees, rendering them less responsive to the road when it’s cold or snowy. In fact, nearly three-fourths of North American all-season tire drivers say they feel unsafe on the road at least a few times each winter.

What’s the solution?

Thankfully, there’s a remedy: all-weather tires.

The name is so similar that only 30% of U.S. drivers are able to distinguish them from all-season tires. But there’s an easy way to think about it: all-weather tires are made for all types of weather, whereas all-season tires are three-season tires in most parts of the United States and Canada.

How can consumers tell the difference? All-weather tires are certified with the three-peak mountain snowflake symbol on their sidewalls. That signifies they’re meant for use in winter conditions.

What sets all-weather tires apart?

All-weather tires remain soft in the wintry months, and their tread patterns are designed to carve through snow and slush. At the same time, they perform well in spring rain and summer heat. While there’s nothing safer in extreme winter than a dedicated winter tire, all-weather tires are a compromise option for drivers who live in areas with moderate or unpredictable winter weather.

If snow, ice and frigid weather stay for a few months, it’s best to swap to a set of winter tires. But for drivers who visit winter or have winter visit them, an all-weather tire is an appealing solution.

All-weather tires have been around for nearly a quarter century; Nokian Tyres introduced the all-weather passenger tire to North America in 1999. The company, which also invented the winter tire in the 1930s, just debuted its sixth-generation all-weather tire this winter — the Nokian Tyres Remedy WRG5.

Like many all-weather tires, the Remedy WRG5 is tested around the globe — in this case, at Nokian Tyres’ Arctic test facility in northern Finland and its new test track in the Spanish desert. The inside of the tire has snow claws that carve into wintry surfaces, while the outside of the tire channels away moisture like an all-season tire.

Who should consider all-weather tires?

Drivers who live in the Sun Belt can usually get away with all-season tires year-round. But anyone who visits winter, or sees winter visit them, should consider an all-weather tire — especially if they don’t plan to swap to dedicated winter tires this time of year.

What drivers don’t know about four-season driving can hurt them. All-weather tires offer an appealing remedy. Learn more about all-weather tires at NokianTires.com/Remedy.

2024-02-13T08:01:00

(BPT) – As cold weather moves across much of this country, winter coats, shoes and socks are a necessity that most of us may take for granted. But with 40 million people living in poverty according to the U.S. Census Bureau, many do not have the means for or access to the essentials they need to make it safely through the season staying warm and dry.

That’s why as part of Subaru Loves to Help® month the automaker is partnering with Operation Warm®, a national nonprofit that produces those necessary items and organizes gifting programs with beneficiary organizations for children in urgent need. In a free shopping experience, volunteers from Subaru retailers and community organizations help kids select brand-new essential clothing in their size and in colors that they love.

This winter wear will keep them cozy, which is a basic need they may be living without. The fact that the items are new and personally selected by the wearer can also have a significant impact on a child’s emotional well-being. According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) 2023 Annual Homeless Assessment Report, roughly 653,100 people were experiencing homelessness during a single night in 2023, a record high since data collection began in 2007 and a 12% increase over the year before. Nearly three of every 10 people (28%) experiencing homelessness did so as part of a family with children.

“For too many children, going without a coat, shoes or even socks can mean the difference between going to school, participating in activities and feeling confident in themselves,” said Alan Bethke, senior vice president of marketing, Subaru of America, Inc. “By pairing our own commitment to be ‘More Than a Car Company,’ with Operation Warm’s mission of being ‘More Than a Coat’ we’re providing children in urgent need with the opportunity to select and own the brand-new necessities they need to thrive.”

In partnership with Operation Warm, more than 600 Subaru retailers around the country have been matched with a local beneficiary organization that serves children in need in their local community. Through gifting and drop-off events, Subaru will help provide more than 150,000 children with brand-new coats, shoes and socks. These special events are tailored to address the unique preferences and essential needs of each child through a variety of coat, shoe and sock options donated by the Subaru retailer.

Picking out something new that is theirs to keep is important for a child’s self-esteem. Choosing a new coat can provide:

• Improved social interactions and confidence. New winter coats are a fact of life for many kids. For those experiencing homelessness and other urgent need situations, new clothing can provide a sense of normalcy and belonging.
• A symbol of care and respect. The ability to choose their own winter wear shows a child that their preferences matter. That they matter.
• Reduced anxiety and stress. There’s no worry that a child won’t have a beautiful new coat to keep them warm on the playground at school, which eases stress on kids and their caregivers.
• Hope and optimism. Knowing that someone cares is a powerful force in this world.

“Coats, shoes and socks provide so much more than just physical warmth, and programs like this are giving kids in urgent need the relief and confidence to socialize and succeed,” said Grace Sica, executive director of Operation Warm. “Teaming up with Subaru, who clearly shares our values of community connection, allows us to bring warmth and confidence to even more children around the country than ever before.”

That’s why Subaru has signed on to be the largest automotive partner of Operation Warm. It’s part of their Subaru Love Promise vision, in which the automaker commits to be a positive force in the local communities where they live and work, going beyond donations to include actions that set an example for others to follow.

Through this partnership, Subaru and Operation Warm will be addressing the immediate needs of more than 150,000 children by the end of February, but the impact will have much longer-lasting effects. And that can make everyone feel a little warmer.

2024-02-12T02:01:00

(BPT) – For some, skiing isn’t just a sport. It’s a way of life. This is especially true for Holly Reitsema, who was raised in a family of freestyle skiers. Not only is she a competitive freestyle skiing athlete, but she also coaches at the prestigious Woodward Copper snowboard and ski training camp.

“I’ve been skiing since I was 3 years old. I ski over 200 days a year and it’s my livelihood,” said Reitsema.

Everything changed for Reitsema when she tore her anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) when she hit a jump while skiing. “Midair, I felt off-axis and shoulder heavy, so I knew I was about to fall. I then did the worst thing possible and fought my fall, so my body was twisted when I landed.”

Not an uncommon story

Skiers like Reitsema are well acquainted with ACL injuries. According to Miach Orthopaedics, about 400,000 ACL injuries occur each year in the U.S. Of those injuries, 20,000 happen while skiing. Even with gear maintenance, proper warmup and strengthening exercises, ACL tears still happen to skiers of all levels and ages.

Unlike many other ligaments in the body, the ACL cannot heal on its own and often requires ACL reconstruction (ACLR) surgery. During ACLR, an orthopedic surgeon removes the torn ACL and replaces it with a graft from another part of the body or a deceased donor.

Although ACL reconstruction is effective, the procedure has drawbacks. When a graft is taken from the knee, many patients experience long-term knee pain. And when a graft is taken from the hamstring, patients may have persistent weakness in that muscle. Regardless of the graft type, many people cannot return to the same level of daily activities or sports.

Reitsema’s father had ACLR years previously with a patellar tendon graft, and she saw how the injury changed him. Hesitation, pain and multiple operations held him back from his prior feats, and this was not something Reitsema nor her father wanted.

“My local orthopedic surgeon initially suggested I get ACL reconstruction with a patellar tendon graft,” said Reitsema. “I was very hesitant because I wasn’t experiencing pain from the ACL tear, but the doctor said I would have pain after getting the graft. I was concerned that I wouldn’t be able to return to skiing or coaching. Something just didn’t feel right about the patellar tendon graft procedure to me.”

A novel treatment for ACL injuries

Luckily for Reitsema, she was an excellent candidate for a novel ACL tear treatment. The BEAR Implant is the first medical advancement that enables the ACL to heal on its own. The implant works by using your own blood to heal the torn ends of your ACL back together, restoring its natural anatomy and function.

During the procedure, the orthopedic surgeon adds your own blood to the BEAR Implant and attaches it between the torn ends of your ACL. The implant holds and protects the blood to allow clot formation. Over time, the BEAR Implant — made of collagen — is resorbed by your body and replaced with native ACL tissue.

“I think the BEAR Implant has the potential to change the entire paradigm around ACL injuries,” said Dr. Alex Meininger, an orthopedic surgeon at Steamboat Orthopaedic and Spine Institute in Steamboat Springs, Colorado. “Previously, we as surgeons thought an ACL tear was incompatible with healing and the stump of native ACL tissue unsalvageable. The regenerative medicine potential of the BEAR Implant has turned that notion on its head.”

After speaking with Reitsema, Meininger felt that she was a great fit for the BEAR Implant. After the procedure and diligent rehab, Reitsema’s ACL healed, and she was able to return to skiing and coaching.

“After hitting the slopes for the first time, I was so proud that my knee didn’t tire out,” said Reitsema. “Since skiing and coaching again, I have been building my stamina and am more self-aware of my energy levels. These days, once I properly warm up, I feel like I did before I got injured. Being able to hit a rail and demonstrate tricks for my students while coaching is an extreme accomplishment for me.”

Reitsema’s story isn’t the only success of this innovative treatment. To date, over 300 patients with snow-related injuries have been treated with the BEAR Implant. To learn more about the procedure and read safety information, visit BEARImplant.com/Snow.

2024-02-08T14:45:00

(BPT) – Lunar New Year is fast approaching on February 10, and this year is the Year of the Dragon. This is one of the most popular and recognized signs on the Chinese zodiac, symbolizing luck, strength and health. According to celebrity astrologer Laura Lau, best-selling author of the “Handbook of Chinese Horoscopes,” in traditional Chinese culture, it’s a time to celebrate traditional customs, enjoy delectable cuisine and make wishes for a prosperous year ahead.

“Lunar New Year is the perfect time to immerse yourself in the vibrance of Chinese food and culture,” states Steven Montes, general manager, USA, for Lee Kum Kee, the revered, centuries-old Asian sauce and condiment maker known for their expertise in Asian cuisine. Lee Kum Kee teamed up this year with Laura to harness the power of the dragon and share how to bring good fortunes and great flavors to every home.

So, let your inner dragon roar, get ready to ignite your luck and welcome positive vibes with these eight tips, courtesy of the celebrity astrologer and Lee Kum Kee:

1. Settle the Past for a Fresh Start

Tie up loose ends in your personal and professional life. In Asian tradition, this is a time to settle debts and finish any business related to last year, so that one can start truly fresh.

2. Feng Shui Your Home

Whether you call it decluttering or good feng shui, look to make your home, especially the front door/entrance, Lunar New Year-ready. Entrances are especially important because they are the ways good luck can enter a home. Make sure to remove any obstacles to your home, clear away shoes and other items that may have stayed past their welcome. Also, give the area a good cleaning, both inside and outside of the door, to symbolize a clear entry point for good luck and new energy.

3. Welcome the New Year with Vibrant Front Door Décor

Decorate your front door to celebrate the new year and symbolize a new and prosperous start to the year. The traditional colors of red and gold are the luckiest, along with pink and orange.

4. Feast on Noodles

Celebrate the Lunar New Year with foods with good symbolism. Noodles are always on the Lunar New Year table. The long shape of the noodle represents a long life. There are so many types of noodles that can be integrated into the meal, from egg noodles to bean thread, to even veggie zoodles. If you’re entertaining, make a vegetable lo mein for the table and also have a spicy noodle option, complete with a variety of chili sauces so family and friends can tailor to their level of spice. You can’t go wrong with Chili Crisp Sauce or hot Chili Garlic Sauce from authentic and revered Chinese brands, like Lee Kum Kee, that I grew up with. Long green beans are another nice option to bring a longevity dish to the table.

5. Embrace Tradition with Flavorful Appetizers

The Lunar New Year celebration period traditionally lasts two weeks, giving people the time to celebrate with family, friends and coworkers. This is a great time to reconnect with people, especially over traditional foods including Hoisin Shrimp or Lucky New Year Dumplings. Opt for a variety of appetizers instead of a heavy meal to allow your guests to explore new dishes. Individuals who are not as adventurous can simply incorporate traditional Chinese sauces for a tasty spin on sliders, warm salads and cold noodle dishes. Be prepared to make something quick, but special, for unexpected guests.

6. Welcome Health and Longevity with Fruit on Your Table

Health and longevity are a traditional new year wish for every family. Adorn a table with a heaping bowl of oranges and tangerines to symbolize wealth, as well as a lot of apples, which symbolize peace. These are simple ways to bring wishes to the table and good routines to your snacking as well.

7. Set Clear Goals

The Year of the Dragon symbolizes energy and favors the bold. Take this two-week period to reflect on the past year and make clear goals for the future. In the traditional Chinese culture, at this time of year we make wishes, rather than resolutions. While we always work to make our own luck, this is a way of sharing our dreams with the dragon and manifesting our goals into reality.

8. Simplify Mealtime

Lunar New Year, also referred to as the Spring Festival, marks the end of winter. To keep the celebration focused on newness and life, it’s important to keep mealtime simple, yet delicious. One of my favorite Chinese dishes to make is Scallion Pancakes; it’s versatile and makes for great leftovers. Whether you choose to enjoy it plain, add dipping sauces like hoisin or with garlic and ginger oils, or fill with Chinese BBQ short ribs, chopped lettuce and Lee Kum Kee Sriracha Mayo, they are always a hit.

“Lunar New Year is truly one of my favorite times of the year – for many reasons, but especially for the food. Combining traditional ingredients and big, bold flavors are perfect for the Year of the Dragon,” comments Lau. “Looking back on how I always helped my mother prepare our house for the new year, I get excited about passing these lessons on to not only my son but also others to help inspire a year filled with good food and good fortune!”

For more information on Lee Kum Kee, the company’s full assortment of Asian sauces and condiments, recipes and more, visit www.LKK.com.

2024-02-09T08:01:00

(BPT) – When you think about eating a heart-healthy diet, do you picture beef? Beef may not be a food that immediately comes to mind when you think heart health. However, lean beef is a nutrient-rich and flavorful food that supports a heart-healthy diet and lifestyle.

Numerous research studies have shown that incorporating lean beef into a heart-healthy diet pattern can help maintain healthy cholesterol and blood pressure levels. In fact, research from Penn State University found that people who participated in the Beef in an Optimal Lean Diet (BOLD) Study — who ate 4 to 5 ounces of lean beef each day as a part of a heart-healthy diet including vegetables, fruits, whole grains and low and non-fat dairy — maintained healthy blood cholesterol levels.

People are more likely to maintain a healthy diet if it is satisfying and enjoyable, says Shalene H. McNeill, Ph.D., RDN, executive director of Nutrition Science, Health and Wellness at National Cattlemen’s Beef Association — a contractor to the Beef Checkoff. “The good news is you don’t have to give up your favorite foods like beef. It’s all about balance.”

In honor of American Hearth Month, McNeill has offered her top three tips and recipes for incorporating beef into your diet so you can support your heart health and your taste buds too.

1. Choose lean cuts

When shopping for beef, opt for the leanest cuts available. A good rule of thumb is to look for “round” or “loin,” like sirloin, tenderloin or eye round roast. These cuts typically have a lower fat content, making them heart-friendlier options that are equally tasty.

2. Employ heart-healthy cooking methods

The way we prepare our meals can significantly impact its nutritional value. Before cooking beef, trim any visible fat which also helps cut calories. Cooking techniques such as broiling, roasting or grilling are considered lower fat cooking methods because they don’t require added fat for flavor.

3. Pair beef with fiber-rich sides

What you eat with beef is just as important as how you choose and prepare. Pair your main beef dish with other healthy foods like fiber-rich vegetables, fruits and whole grains for a well-rounded, tasty meal.

For example, toss a salad of spinach or your favorite crunchy greens or roasted colorful vegetables as a side for your sirloin steak. Or, slow roast an eye of round with peppers and carrots.

Need inspiration? Check out these three beef recipes that are Heart-Check certified by the American Heart Association.

Spicy Korean Beef & Cucumber Appetizers

Enjoy the spicy taste of Korean red chili sauce, savory herbed cream cheese and a delicious strip steak. Top with cucumber slices for a refreshing taste and satisfying crunch.

Roasted Sun-Dried Tomato Beef Tri-Tip with Peppers and Sweet Potatoes

This beef tri-tip roast is incredibly tender and flavorful on its own, but its taste is further enhanced when covered in a sauce of Italian dressing and sun-dried tomatoes. When you smell it roasting on top of a bed of sweet potatoes and red bell peppers, you’ll be counting down the minutes until the dish comes out of the oven!

Beef Confetti Taco Salad

You don’t have to wait until Taco Tuesday to eat this beef taco salad. Use your favorite taco ingredients like salsa, cheese, tomato, salad greens, bell peppers and onions and, of course, cooked ground beef, and savor the taste of a deconstructed taco. No taco shell needed!

Using these three tips, you can continue to enjoy the delicious taste of beef while supporting your heart health. For more heart-healthy recipes Heart-Check certified by the American Heart Association, visit BeefItsWhatsforDinner.com.

2024-02-08T08:01:00

(BPT) – A rising travel trend for 2024 is quickly becoming trips to destination “dupes.” These sometimes-unexpected locales are often cost-effective, yet experience-rich alternatives to their tourist-packed counterparts; and many of them happen to be right in our backyards! Ahead of spring and summer travel, there’s never been a better time to stay ahead of the trend and lock in your next vacation. Not only will this give you something to look forward to, but you can also tap into travel offers to help you (and maybe even a plus-one) make more out of upcoming trips.

For example, from now until March 11, 2024, Southwest Rapid Rewards^® Plus, Premier, and Priority Credit Cards from Chase are offering new Cardmembers the opportunity to earn the coveted Companion Pass^®, plus earn 30,000 Rapid Rewards^® points, after spending $4,000 within the first 3 months from account opening. With the Companion Pass, new Cardmembers can bring a travel partner along for free on as many flights as they’d like through February 28, 2025 (not including taxes and fees from $5.60 one-way) — so you can take your best friend, partner, child, or whomever you choose to explore more dupes along with you.

Seeking a bustling and historic cityscape?

While your first thought might be London, Athens, or New York City, you might also consider a weekend trip to Chicago. With its robust history, sweeping skylines, lively theater scene, and one of the oldest and largest museums in the world, Chicago has plenty to offer any traveler open to exploring its rich history.

Be sure to also visit the iconic Bean art installation in Millennium Park or enjoy a relaxing architectural river cruise. You can also experience the city atop one of the many fantastic observation decks and upgrade your camera roll with unparalleled panoramic views. What’s more, Chicago is one of the most walkable cities in the country (take a day to stroll through Grant Park!) but it also hosts a bustling infrastructure of transportation options to help you cover more ground. If you use the right travel card when making your way through the city, you can even earn points to use toward your next vacation. The Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus, Premier, and Priority Credit Cards, for example, offer Cardmembers the ability to earn 2X points per $1 spent on local transit and commuting purchases, including rideshare.

Looking to live out your outdoor adventure?

If you’re looking to immerse yourself in the outdoors, Australia or Iceland might be on your travel bucket list. But did you know Denver also offers a host of memorable experiences in the great outdoors, all year round? Colorado’s unique climate means you can hit the slopes any season, so you’ll want to get your gear ready for skiing, hiking, and biking in the Rocky Mountains. You can also enjoy soaking in Eldorado hot springs, strolling through Denver’s lush 23-acre botanic gardens, rollerblading around Washington Park, or climbing the impressive 2,000 ft. Manitou Incline. Rent a car to take a scenic drive around Lookout Mountain for the best views of the city (Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmembers earn 2X the points per $1 spent on Rapid Rewards car rental partner purchases for use toward their next adventure!).

Searching for the site of your next “friendcation?”

The number one concern when traveling with friends is making sure there’s something for everyone. Though trips to Porto, Dublin, or Mykonos might be top of mind, Orlando, Florida, is jam-packed with activities to keep your full friend group happy the entire trip. Not only that, but you can also count on reliably warm weather year-round — and even if it rains, there’s still plenty to do both indoors and outdoors. If you’re looking for a daytime activity for your sportier friends, Orlando boasts some of the country’s best golf courses, with several expert-level play courses across the city. Alternatively, if you’re interested in a more adrenaline-filled experience, check out any number of the city’s adventure parks, like Orlando Tree Trek Adventure Park, for some friendly competition along their ropes course or racing down their zip lines. You’ll also have access to spend the day exploring local attractions, from the Kennedy Space Center to the wildlife-teeming Everglades, giving you more opportunities to make memories you’ll be talking about for years to come.

Lights, camera, action! Explore the true heart of cinema

Thinking of traveling to LA to see the Hollywood Walk of Fame? Instead, witness the magic of television come to life in Burbank, CA. Known as the ‘Media Capital of the World,’ Burbank is home to some of the most famous media companies and major movie studios. While in Burbank, experience exciting backlot tours of the places where your favorite movies and TV shows are filmed. It’s also just a short ride away from Los Angeles and Hollywood, so you can use the city as your tourist-light home base while exploring the sights in these California hot spots.

With spring approaching and some great travel offers already available, it’s the perfect time to consider a travel dupe for an upcoming vacation. Plus, when selecting a travel credit card, like the Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus, Premier, and Priority Credit Cards, you can earn points toward future travel and access travel benefits like the Companion Pass; or access to 2 EarlyBird Check-In^® per year on the Premier, and Plus Cards and 4 Upgraded Boardings per year on the Priority Card, when available. Your next adventure is just a short flight away.

*Accounts subject to credit approval. Restrictions and limitations apply. Cards are issued by JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. All Rapid Rewards rules and regulations apply and can be found at Southwest.com/rrterms.

2024-02-08T14:15:00

(BPT) – The aftermath of the back-to-back holiday season can hit people hard. While January doesn’t bring much in the way of nice weather or celebrations, it instead inches us closer to Valentine’s Day. Though historically a day to focus on love and partnership, over the last decade it has transformed into a time to honor and celebrate all bonds, including relationships with our children, grandchildren and even friends thanks in large part to social media. In fact, recent data shows that Galentine’s Day has almost as many mentions on social media annually as Valentine’s Day.

There are many ways to spread joy this February—having a girls night in for Galentine’s Day, sending a gift to your long-distance partner, or simply planning a fun or romantic date night. Planning for a day or evening out just got a whole lot easier on the wallet too, because an AARP membership can unlock a plethora of discounts to aid in your efforts. Here are a few ways to celebrate love and friendship while utilizing your AARP member benefits:

1. Cuddle Up for a Cozy Night In

Looking for something low key? Grab your favorite snacks and a cozy blanket and cuddle up with your honey to binge your next favorite show on Paramount+. AARP members can save 10% on any plan—choose from over 45,000 episodes, blockbuster movies, live sports, and more all in one place.

If you’re having friends over for Galentine’s Day drinks, show off your inner sommelier by offering a selection of options from Naked Wines. Don’t forget that AARP members receive $120 off and complimentary shipping on the first personalized wine order of $179.99 or more. Plus, members earn an additional $5 per month in wine credits.

2. Go All-in for a Classic Date Night

Keep it classic this Valentine’s Day by making a reservation for two at Bonefish Grill. AARP members save 10% on food and nonalcoholic beverages, so it’s the perfect time to enjoy that delicious surf n’ turf meal you’ve been eyeing.

“When planning an evening out for a special occasion, you shouldn’t have to make tremendous sacrifices because of budget restrictions. At AARP, we make it a priority to ensure that members can enjoy savings at restaurants around the country that fit both their budget and dining interests,” said Jason Mugg, Senior Vice President, Lifestyle & Emerging Businesses, AARP Services. “While Bonefish Grill is certainly a fan favorite, AARP members have dozens of options for dining out and the list continues to grow.”

3. Special Delivery: Brightening Someone’s Day with Blooms or Basket

Sometimes life gets in the way of holidays, and Valentine’s Day is no exception. If you and your partner will be apart this year, show how much you love and miss them by sending a beautiful bouquet or a heart-shaped succulent from FTD. AARP members automatically save 25% sitewide and 30% off select items with promo code AARP30. If you’re looking for another way to say you care, send relaxation right to their door with a spa gift basket or a food basket that has meat, cheese and brownie bites—you’ll thank us later!

4. Take a Valentine’s Day Getaway

If it’s a stress-free getaway that will make you happiest this February—but you don’t want to break the bank—book a quick trip through the AARP Travel Center Powered by Expedia, where AARP members get exclusive deals, seasonal offers, and special savings. Or book yourself a romantic staycation and stay closer to home—from DoubleTree to Waldorf Astoria, AARP members can take advantage of savings up to 10% off the best available rate at any Hilton property and get late checkout until 2 p.m. when available, or save 10% at Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, which has thousands of pet-friendly properties worldwide, so you can even bring your four-legged valentine with you.

If your getaway is close enough to drive, you can save wear and tear on your own car and treat yourself by renting from Avis or Budget. AARP members save up to 30% off base rates or up to 35% when selecting Pay Now, and receive a 3% credit to apply to rentals within 12 months. Plus, you get an upgrade on compact through full-size car class bookings (based on availability), an additional driver at no cost, and more. So pack your bags, put together a playlist, and hit the road to your destination.

To learn more about the benefits and discounts for AARP members to help you prepare for Valentine’s Day, please visit aarp.org/save.

AARP member benefits are provided by third parties. AARP receives a royalty fee for the use of its intellectual property. These fees are used for the general purposes of AARP. Provider offers are subject to change and may have restrictions.