Category: Brandpoint Lifestyle

2023-12-21T15:01:00

(BPT) – The holidays are a time of joy and celebration, but this year may be less cheery for some families. This holiday season, more than 4,000 children will receive a devastating diagnosis. To help raise their spirits, Make-A-Wish and Teleflora — the world’s leading floral delivery service — have banded together to make these children’s dreams come true.

Teleflora hosted a Wish Tree activation at Westfield Century City to raise funds for Make-A-Wish, supporting the nonprofit’s mission of creating life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses. During the event, participants wrote their holiday wish on a Make-A-Wish star ornament and placed it on the Teleflora Wish Tree. Each wish shared contributed $5 toward Teleflora’s total campaign donation and was doubled to $10 when shared on social media using #WishOutLoud.

A holiday of wishes

The Wish Tree event isn’t the only way Teleflora is helping Wish Kids this holiday season. The floral delivery service has also launched “A Holiday Wish,” an ad that follows a little girl gloomily spending the holidays in the hospital.

The ad explores her interaction with a kind nurse who brings joy to her and all her fellow children in the hospital. The nurse is later surprised by the girl’s parents, who leave a Teleflora holiday bouquet on his desk with a note that reads, “Thank you for being there for our daughter.”

“At Teleflora, we believe in the power of humanity and its potential to deliver hope and drive change,” said Danielle Mason, vice president of marketing, Teleflora. “With this campaign, wishes are the currency to help deliver life-changing holiday moments. Through a simple gesture, everyone can join us in delivering hope and healing to wish children and their families in an engaging and accessible way.”

Help spread holiday cheer

In the spirit of granting wishes, Teleflora is encouraging America to #WishOutLoud now through Dec. 31. You can get involved by shopping for Teleflora Bouquets. The company will donate 15% of the purchase price from all sales of its Send a Hug^® North Pole Penguin Bouquet and Teleflora’s Send a Hug^® Warm Wisher Tree to Make-A-Wish.

Teleflora bouquets are beautifully curated arrangements always made by hand and delivered to your doorstep by a local florist. Each bouquet comes complete with a festive keepsake container that can be incorporated into home décor for years to come.

In addition to buying a beautiful bouquet for your home or as a last-minute gift for a loved one, you can support Wish Kids by joining Teleflora’s social media movement. Share your holiday wish on Instagram or Facebook on a @Teleflora #WishOutLoud post. For each comment, Teleflora will donate $5. For each new post created sharing a wish with #WishOutLoud, Teleflora will donate $10, up to $250,000.

“A child’s joy is a light of hope for all of us, especially during the holiday season,” said Leslie Motter, president and CEO of Make-A-Wish America. “For children with critical illnesses, a wish can create a turning point in their treatment and recovery, making a meaningful impact in their lives and the lives of their families. We’re grateful to Teleflora for helping us deliver more hope to communities nationwide.”

To learn about Teleflora and how you can participate in making children’s wishes come true this holiday season, visit Teleflora.com/Wish.

2023-12-21T09:01:00

(BPT) – The holiday season is all about celebrating with family and friends. But unfortunately, making the most of this festive time of year can also come at a cost. That becomes clear in January when the credit card bills show up — including bills for higher phone plan usage.

To help avoid the pain of post-holiday sticker shock, finance expert and author of New York Times bestseller “Zero Debt: The Ultimate Guide to Financial Freedom” Lynnette Khalfani-Cox — also known as The Money Coach — offers her money-saving tips for enjoying the holidays without breaking the bank.

“Shopping smart now makes all the difference when January rolls around,” says Khalfani-Cox. “So make the most of the deals and offers that might only be available around the holidays, and your bank account will thank you!”

Here are her tips for making sure your holiday mood doesn’t come to a halt when the January bills come due.

1. Make your list — and check it twice

Setting a budget for holiday shopping and making a list of who you’re shopping for — then sticking to it — is the smartest way to be sure you don’t end up with unexpectedly high bills next month. Where possible, consider going in for group gifts, or choose gift cards for picky gift recipients so you can control exactly what you’re spending — and that they’ll love what they get.

“Keep a running list of what you’re spending, whether you shop online or in person, to stay on track,” advises Khalfani-Cox. “It’s all too easy to overspend when you’re not writing down every purchase.”

2. Dive into deals to make the holidays bright

Comparison shopping is the name of the game when it comes to finding the best deals for everything from gifts to holiday hosting must-haves. And that doesn’t stop at items to check off your holiday list. While you’re comparison gift shopping, check out the latest discounted deals from phone providers like Straight Talk Wireless, a no-contract carrier from Verizon. In fact, Straight Talk is now offering 6 months of free service with the purchase of the Samsung Galaxy A13 and one month of the Straight Talk Silver. This deal can help you stay connected with far-flung family and friends throughout the holiday season and beyond, for a lot less. Plus, it’s available exclusively through Walmart, so you can get all your other holiday shopping done, too.

3. Maximize rewards and loyalty programs — smartly

If you frequently shop from one store or brand, or if your credit cards offer cash back rewards for purchases, first make sure it’s something you really want to buy before signing on. Loyalty programs are great and can save you money, as long as it’s something you know will make a great gift for someone on your list.

“Choose programs and memberships that don’t cost anything up front,” Khalfani-Cox advises, “so you’ll be a lot merrier when you take advantage of the savings!”

4. Always read the fine print

No matter what you’re purchasing — but especially for high-priced or tech products — look out for hidden fees or costs. Read carefully to know what you’re signing up for, whether that’s a protection plan or autopay you may not need or want, and what the store’s policies are.

“When you’re spending your hard-earned money, you’ll want to be sure you know the store’s policies for returning items, or if they offer a price-match guarantee if you see the same item for less somewhere else,” says Khalfani-Cox.

5. Gift experiences or home-made items

If you’re looking to save money, consider gifting some people on your list a special homemade lunch at your home, a visit to a favorite local attraction together or home-baked goodies. For some gift recipients who are tough to shop for — or who don’t really want more “things” — a shared experience or heart-felt homemade present can be much more meaningful.

“The joy of the holiday season shouldn’t come with mounting bills,” Khalfani-Cox says. “With these tips, you can celebrate the spirit of the season with your loved ones — with less financial stress.”

2023-12-20T13:21:00

(BPT) – Sponsored by Novavax, Inc.

It’s been more than three years since the beginning of the pandemic, yet COVID-19 is far from over and hospitalizations continue to be reported, as of October 2023, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).[1]

Unfortunately, the impact and burden of disease has disproportionately affected Hispanic/Latino communities[2] — including Hispanic communities being disproportionately represented in COVID-19 infection and death rates.[3] Despite this higher risk of COVID-19, Hispanic Americans reported greater hesitancy and resistance toward the COVID-19 vaccine especially in the early pandemic.[4]

“Vaccine mistrust and misinformation[5],[6] has hit our communities much more significantly than previously understood, affecting vaccine uptake[4] and risking a devastating impact on individuals’ and their families’ health,” explained Jose Torradas, MD, Emergency Medicine Physician and Co-Founder of Medicos Unidos, Inc. and paid spokesperson for Novavax.

Added Dr. Torradas, “We must stay vigilant against COVID-19 by encouraging everyone who is eligible to consider receiving an updated COVID-19 vaccine as well as stopping the spread of misinformation by helping connect individuals with trusted healthcare information and providers if they have vaccine questions or concerns.”

Understanding the Risks of COVID-19 & Protecting Yourself

Everyone can take action to put their best foot forward heading into this fall and winter season by getting vaccinated to help protect themselves and their loved ones — yet a recent poll conducted in September 2023 found that only 54% of Hispanic adults currently plan to get the new COVID-19 vaccine.[7]

It’s important that all individuals stay up to date with their COVID-19 vaccination[8] — and the time to consider vaccination is now, with updated vaccines arriving in pharmacies and doctors’ offices. These updated COVID-19 vaccine options have been developed to help protect against subvariants of the COVID-19 virus.[9]

According to the CDC, older adults and people with weakened immune systems are at the highest risk for severe COVID-19 illness, as well as individuals who are immunocompromised and those with underlying medical conditions.[9],[10]

“Collaboration and engagement at the community level are critical to empowering individuals and families with the necessary information to take control of their health, and the greatest need is often most concentrated in communities of color[11] and requires tailored, culturally relevant efforts to reach out and encourage vaccination,” said Silvia Taylor, EVP, Chief Corporate Affairs and Advocacy Officer at Novavax, a global leader in vaccine development and research that is working to make safe and effective vaccines available to help protect those who need them around the world.

Taking Action: Equitable Access to Vaccines & Trusted Information

Perhaps one of the most inescapable learnings of the past three years is the reality that everyone is in this together.

“As the nation continues to battle the pandemic, we advocate for all in the Hispanic and Latino communities to have easy and effective access to the COVID-19 vaccines and the facts,” explained Dr. Torradas.

What You Can Do

“It’s important to get the facts and know your risks,” emphasized Taylor. “If you have questions, speak with your doctor or pharmacist about your options, because protecting one of us can help protect all of us.”

For more information about the science making these vaccines possible, visit Novavax’s ChoosetoProtect.com.

To learn more about the latest authorized COVID-19 vaccine options and find a vaccination site near you, visit vaccines.gov.

2023-12-20T13:01:00

(BPT) – The holiday season can be a stressful time for many people. Travel, family gatherings, reminders of personal loss and much more can lead to high stress and anxiety levels, excessive eating and excessive consumption of alcohol or caffeine. Over time, these stressors can lead to health issues such as heart arrhythmias, which impact millions of people in the U.S. today.

One of the most common types of heart arrhythmias is paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT), commonly referred to as SVT. About 2 million Americans are living with SVT or PSVT, with approximately 300,000 new patients diagnosed each year. While anyone can develop SVT, it’s more common among women than men, accounting for 65% of SVT diagnoses.

Symptoms and diagnosis

A normal resting heart rate is between 60 and 100 beats per minute. However, people with SVT have debilitating and sudden episodes of extremely rapid heart rate, often exceeding 150 to 200 beats per minute. These attacks can start and stop without warning and last from seconds to hours.

Symptoms of SVT can be scary for patients and those who care about them. Rapid heart rate associated with SVT often causes severe palpitations, shortness of breath, chest discomfort, dizziness, lightheadedness and distress. SVT symptoms often force patients to limit their daily activities, impacting their quality of life.

Diagnosing SVT can be frustrating. For some patients, it can take years to be diagnosed, which can breed doubt of the health care system and no treatment plan. Also, there is a significant unmet need for patients experiencing the physical, emotional and psychological burden of highly symptomatic episodic attacks associated with SVT.

Taking care of your heart health

While there’s no way to completely prevent symptomatic SVT episodes, you can take steps to manage your heart condition. During the holiday season and to kick off the new year in good heart health, it is important to consider the following tips from Dr. James Ip, cardiologist at a premier medical institution in NYC, to help manage potential heart arrhythmias, including SVT.

1. If you experience any severe chest pain, shortness of breath, light-headedness or fainting, call 911 and/or seek emergency assistance.
2. If you are not in distress, lay down and try to stop the arrhythmia yourself by performing a breathing exercise or vagal maneuver such as the Valsalva maneuver (bearing down like forcing a bowel movement) or splashing cold water on your face. If this does not work, seek medical care if your symptoms persist.
3. Consider obtaining a device that can generate an electrocardiogram (ECG) (such as a KardiaMobile, Apple Watch, Fitbit, Samsung Galaxy Watch, etc.) to record your rhythm during your tachycardia episodes and share this information with your doctor.

Talk to your doctor about treatment options

Medical providers are displeased by the lack of effective treatment options for SVT. Today, treatment often requires a prolonged, unpleasant and costly trip to the emergency room. For some patients, an invasive catheter ablation procedure may be required that may not alleviate all episodes. Therefore, the medical community understands there is a need to identify a potential novel treatment approach.

Take proactive steps to protect your heart health during the holidays and beyond. If you believe you’re experiencing SVT or similar cardiovascular symptoms, talk to your doctor about your concerns and potential treatment options. To learn more about SVT, visit OutsmartPSVT.com.

2023-12-20T07:01:00

(BPT) – If you’ve heard the buzz about eating “plant-based” diets or being a “flexitarian,” you’re not alone. According to a OnePoll survey, 47% of Americans (ages 24-49) identify as flexitarian, meaning they eat mostly plant foods including vegetables, legumes, and fruit but are not strictly vegetarian or vegan.

Why try a flexitarian diet?

A flexitarian diet could mean better health for yourself and the planet, without entirely omitting animal foods. Higher in antioxidants, fiber, and phytochemicals from plant foods, vegetarian diets (which closely resemble flexitarian eating) may help lower risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers, and may aid in weight management. As for the planet, in a review of 14 varied plant-based diets, research showed that a flexitarian eating style may help lower greenhouse gas emissions.

Keep in mind that not all earth-friendly foods are better for your health and that reading ingredient labels is important. A company serving up flexitarian options that are both better for the planet and your health is GOOD PLANeT Foods. Their newest product, Olive Oil Cheese, is the only dairy-free cheese made with superfood olive oil to support heart health. CEO of GOOD PLANeT Foods, Bart Adlam, explains, “We created the first ever Olive Oil Cheese to make it easier for flexitarians who are aiming to eat more plant-based foods while still enjoying the goodness of cheese. Our Olive Oil Cheeses are dairy-free, and full of all the deliciousness, joy, and have the same melt of your favorite cheeses.”

How should you start your flexitarian journey?

Below, registered dietitian Bianca Tamburello, RDN, shares five tips for starting a flexitarian way of eating to incorporate more plant foods into your diet.

1. Start with whole plant proteins including beans, lentils, legumes, and tofu.

Eating more plant proteins is the cornerstone to adopting a flexitarian way of life. Cut back on animal-based foods slowly by eating meals with half meat and half plant proteins. For example, make taco meat with half ground beef and half beans. Later, transition to multiple meat-free meals per week where your main protein is plant-based, like beans, lentils, and legumes. Try these wholesome proteins in stews, stir fries, pasta dishes, crockpot recipes, sandwiches, and burgers.

2. Choose plant-based alternatives with health benefits!

Tamburello recommends looking for plant-based foods with health-promoting ingredients, like GOOD PLANeT’s Olive Oil Cheese. The Olive Oil Cheese is the only dairy-free cheese made with heart-healthy olive oil (most vegan cheeses are made with coconut oil). She explains, “The swap to olive oil in vegan cheese makes it higher in healthy unsaturated fats and lower in saturated fat. Research shows that olive oil is linked to numerous health benefits including less inflammation and better heart health.” GOOD PLANeT’s Olive Oil Cheese melts perfectly for pizzas, pastas, burgers, paninis, and quesadillas.

3. Look for convenient vegetables and fruits for easy meals.

High in fiber, vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients, eating more vegetables and fruit is an important part of a plant-based diet. In fact, the Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends that you aim to fill half your plate with veggies or fruit at meals. Cut back on cooking and prep time by choosing convenient produce like frozen, pre-cut, and steam-in-bag. These options are just as nutritious as fresh and can help you effectively boost your fruit and veggie intake. Keep frozen cauliflower rice and stir fry medleys in your freezer for a delicious veggie base in minutes and frozen fruit for snacking, smoothies, and bowls.

4. Don’t forget nuts and seeds.

Tamburello shares, “Nuts and seeds are small but mighty, offering up healthy unsaturated fats, fiber, plant protein, and important vitamins and minerals.” Being nutrient-dense, these important plant foods pack high levels of nutrients per serving. Enjoy one to two ounces of nuts and seeds per day in trail mixes or sprinkle as a topper on oatmeal, smoothie bowls, yogurt, and salads.

5. Prioritize plant foods high in vitamin B12 and iron.

Iron and vitamin B12 are two nutrients that are important for regular body functions. Vitamin B12 and iron are more abundant in animal products, which puts strict vegans or vegetarians at risk of being low in these important nutrients. Prioritize plant foods high in iron (legumes, beans, nuts, and leafy greens) and vitamin B12 (fortified cereals and nutritional yeast) and enjoy them regularly to keep vitamin B12 and iron levels high.

For recipes and more information for GOOD PLANeT Foods Olive Oil Cheese, see here.

2023-12-20T05:01:00

(BPT) – Any family can experience financial hurdles, but military families may face unique challenges that set them apart from their civilian counterparts. From being remotely stationed with limited access to good paying jobs and childcare, to frequent moves that can make establishing consistent savings habits hard, military families’ everyday realities can make financial security difficult in both the near and long-term.

Veteran Jeff Felton, a former Air Force Officer and Investment Advisory Representative at Prudential Financial, understands personally the financial hurdles military families can face. When he was exiting military service and deciding on a civilian career, Felton says he saw becoming a financial advisor as an opportunity to help himself and others gain financial confidence.

To help military families build financial habits today that will aid in securing their future, Felton offers the following tips.

1. Develop a savings habit, no matter how much

A common piece of financial advice is to save 10%-30% of your paycheck, but for families on a tight or single-earner budget, that may not be feasible. Felton says that shouldn’t be discouraging and suggests developing a simple savings habit. After ensuring family necessities are covered, set aside as much as you can each paycheck to begin building an emergency fund. The bigger the fund, the better (3 to 6 months’ worth of expenses is ideal), but any amount can serve as a buffer against borrowing or going into debt when unplanned events, such as an emergency car repair or appliance replacement, happen.

2. Start saving for retirement today and be flexible

“If you haven’t already, it’s critical that you start saving now,” says Felton. Working military spouses can have funds moved to a retirement account via payroll deduction and check to see if their employer offers a matching contribution benefit. Aim to have 10% of your salary allocated to your retirement savings account. If that’s not immediately possible for your family, start small and increase your contribution as you receive pay raises.

After 20 years of service, members of the military may be able to switch to a more self-directed savings plan, such as a Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), a retirement savings and investment account for federal employees and uniformed service members. The plan offers a mutual fund option that allows participants greater investment flexibility.

3. Develop post-service skills

Plan for a future after the military by developing post-service skills for jobs with higher salaries. “The military provides many transferable skills to help you join the civilian workforce, and you can hone those skills and develop new ones by taking advantage of military educational resources such as Community College of the Air Force or American Military University,” says Felton.

To assist in covering the costs of higher education, GI Bill benefits can help military members pay for college, graduate school and training programs. Military spouses and children may also qualify for credits that can help offset training or higher education costs.

A resource for military families

Families can tap into programs for financial education and other money-smart resources. For example, Prudential Financial has partnered with Twelve Million Plus, a digital community from the company Instant Teams Marketplace, which provides a host of curated and local resources for the more than 12 million spouses of active and retired U.S. military members.

Through the partnership, Twelve Million Plus members have access to a range of resources to aid in improving their financial well-being, including the ability to connect online with an advisor and access to Prudential Stages for Retirement, the company’s online planning platform that helps people navigate more confidently through pivotal life stages.

Launched in January 2023, Prudential Stages for Retirement is a free tool that helps individuals benchmark their retirement readiness using a personalized retirement confidence score and provides access to tools that track how certain actions, like changing goals or their target retirement date, can affect their score. Twelve Million Plus members will also have access to Prudential’s financial education through online articles and videos as well as live seminars on different topics.

“Today, there are a lot more ways for military families to connect to financial tools and professional advice,” says Felton. “This partnership offers those resources in a supportive online community with people who understand each other’s challenges.”

2023-12-19T15:57:00

(BPT) – Down fill material has been around for hundreds of years, providing us warmth and comfort. It is the gold standard for premium insulation among many outdoor enthusiasts and outerwear shoppers.

Now, there’s more reason than ever for down to hold this top position. According to a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), down material is up to 97% more eco-friendly than polyester fill. Three new videos released by the International Down and Feather Bureau (IDFB) based on the LCA, highlight the key elements of down’s environmental superiority.

Understanding the life cycle of a product

To understand the vast differences of environmental impact between polyester fill and down, it’s necessary to look at the origins of each material.

Long Trail Sustainability, an independent third-party firm specializing in LCAs and sustainability reports, was commissioned by IDFB to conduct this research to systematically study the potential environmental impacts of both products. They assessed the raw materials and manufacturing processes required by each, and the results were unequivocal — down fill material has an 85%–97% lower impact on the environment across five categories: human health, ecosystems, resources, cumulative energy demand and climate change.

Why is down environmentally superior?

Down is a natural byproduct from the food and agriculture industry. Polyester fill, on the other hand, starts with the extraction of crude oil, proceeds to refinement, then polymerization and finally extrusion. This involved process means polyester burns through far more energy and resources during its production, leading to a climate change impact that’s 18 times higher than down.

Then there’s biodegradability to consider. Polyester, as an oil-based plastic, simply doesn’t break down like natural fibers. It remains in landfills for decades or even centuries, frequently leeching harmful substances into the groundwater. As a result, polyester leaves an immeasurable scar on the planet. Meanwhile, down is about as biodegradable as a material gets. It can decompose in just a few months under the right composting conditions. Better still, because down is composed entirely of the protein keratin, it doesn’t release harmful byproducts during the decomposition process.

Down feels good, is good

Let’s take a down jacket, for example. Its warmth, lightness and compressibility have made it a tried-and-true companion for cold-weather adventurers for generations. It’s kept countless outdoor enthusiasts safe and warm while they explore the most amazing sights this world has to offer.

With the newly released videos and additional resources that can be found here, down’s eco-friendly qualities are taking center stage along with the comfort, durability and warmth which remain among the top reasons consumers choose down products.

Now, in a stroke of poetic symmetry, down’s relationship with people and the environment is coming full circle. By choosing down over polyester, consumers can feel good knowing that what is keeping them warm is also helping to sustain the natural beauty of this world for generations to come. That’s a whole new level of comfort to get wrapped up in.

2023-12-19T13:31:00

(BPT) – Do you have favorite recipes or family traditions that you enjoy during the holiday season? Whether it’s toasting warm drinks, savoring satisfying sweet breads or baking delicious desserts, there’s a good chance some of those traditions feature California walnuts.

A powerhouse of important nutrients and highly versatile, walnuts are the perfect ingredient to add an extra touch of holiday cheer to your culinary creations — from appetizers to main courses, and everything in between. Walnuts are an appealing and adaptable ingredient, and their versatility can make them the unsung holiday hero of the kitchen.

Walnuts are well known for their buttery richness and pleasing texture, elevating many traditional dishes and baked goods that you enjoy during the holiday season. Add a bag of walnuts to your holiday shopping list and unlock endless possibilities to incorporate them into seasonal dishes, allowing you to experiment with a variety of scrumptious flavors.

Festive walnut recipe inspiration

Looking for something new to try that features some classic cool-season flavors? In partnership with California Walnuts, this recipe from Ambitious Kitchen features walnuts, warm spices and sweet butternut squash in a loaf that is ideal for the chillier months. Topped with a decadent walnut streusel, this treat will become a favorite for all ages. Enjoy it for brunch, as a snack, or while entertaining guests throughout the holiday season.

Maple Walnut Butternut Squash Bread with Cinnamon Walnut Streusel

Ingredients

For the butternut squash:

1 small to medium butternut squash
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil or melted butter
1 tablespoon packed brown sugar or coconut sugar
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Wet ingredients:

1/2 cup salted butter
1/2 cup pure maple syrup
2 large eggs, at room temperature
1/4 cup whole milk or plain Greek yogurt
2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Dry ingredients:

1 cup all purpose flour or white whole wheat flour
3/4 cup oat flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
2 teaspoons cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon allspice
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

Mix-ins:

1/3 cup chopped walnuts

For the streusel:

1/2 cup all purpose flour
1/4 cup chopped walnut pieces
1/4 cup packed dark brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon kosher salt
3 tablespoons salted butter, melted

Instructions

Step 1. Preheat the oven to 400 F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.

Step 2. Prep the butternut squash: Use a sharp knife to cut both ends off the butternut squash. You’ll cut about 1/2 inch off each end so that there is no stem or root. You’ll be left with butternut squash that is flat on both sides so that it’s easier to prop up. Next, place the butternut squash upright or vertically with the larger side down on a wooden cutting board that’s very secured to your counter. Cut the butternut squash vertically down the middle with a sharp chef’s knife. Then use a spoon to scoop out the seed of the cut butternut squash. Set aside to roast for later or discard them.

Step 3. Roast the squash: Place the squash on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil then sprinkle with cinnamon and brown sugar and rub into the squash. Flip the squash over so that it’s skin side up and roast for 45 minutes to 1 hour until squash is very fork tender. Allow squash to cool for at least 10 minutes before handling.

Step 4. Reduce temperature in the oven to 350 F. Line an 8-1/2 by 4-1/2 inch loaf pan with parchment paper and grease with nonstick cooking spray. Set aside.

Step 5. Make your streusel topping while squash cooks or while it is cooling: In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, walnuts, brown sugar, cinnamon and salt. Add in the melted butter and stir together with a fork until it begins to form into crumbles and resembles clumps of wet sand. You may need to use your hands/fingers to form into nice thick crumbs. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place in the fridge until ready to use.

Step 6. Brown your butter: Place a medium pan over medium heat and add in 1/2 cup butter. The butter will begin to melt, crackle and then eventually foam. Make sure you stir constantly during this process. After about 5 minutes, the butter will begin to brown and turn a nice golden amber color on the bottom of the saucepan; this usually happens right when it foams. Continue to whisk and remove from heat as soon as the butter begins to brown and give off a nutty aroma. Set aside until cool enough to touch, about 5 to 10 minutes.

Step 7. Mix wet ingredients: Scoop about half of the cooled roasted butternut squash out onto a plate or into a large bowl and mash it with a fork (reserve the other half of squash for enjoying or freeze in an ice cream tray and mix into smoothies later). This should measure about 1 heaping cup mashed butternut squash. In the same bowl with the mashed butternut squash, add the pure maple syrup, eggs, yogurt and vanilla extract. Whisk together until smooth and well combined.

Step 8. Add in the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients: flour, oat flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, allspice and salt. Mix until just combined, then add in the cooled brown butter and stir again until butter is well-incorporated into the batter. Finally, gently fold the walnuts into the batter.

Step 9. Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Sprinkle the streusel evenly over the top of the batter.

Step 10. Bake the bread for 50-65 minutes or until the tester comes out clean. Allow bread to cool for at least an hour before removing from the pan and slicing into. Consider serving with honey butter or butter and sea salt.

Have leftover walnuts?

For optimal freshness, keep California walnuts in an air-tight container in the fridge or freezer instead of the pantry. The deli drawer right next to your cheese is a great option. Then they are fresh and ready for your next snack, charcuterie board or recipe.

For even more holiday inspiration with California walnuts, visit Walnuts.org. You can easily sort by course, dietary consideration, main ingredient, cooking method and more to find the right recipe to tantalize your taste buds. Enjoy all the flavors of the season using your favorite ingredients!

2023-12-19T11:13:00

(BPT) – Are you planning to buy a car in 2024? Now is the time to do your homework and start shopping around so you can pick a vehicle that fits your needs without hurting your wallet.

For decades, most people followed a simple formula when they were ready to purchase a new vehicle — dealership, negotiate and purchase, drive off the lot. Today, there are a myriad of options available in the ever-evolving auto landscape that can leave drivers with a lot of questions.

Chase Auto wants to simplify car shopping, whether you’re a first-time or experienced car buyer. Here are the most important aspects of car buying that you should keep in mind when buying a car in 2024.

1. Set a realistic budget

Before you begin shopping, set a budget that you can stick to. Knowing how much you can afford, especially if you plan to pay for the car over time, will help you avoid stretching your finances.

When setting your budget, don’t just look at a car’s sticker price. Other auto expenses, like insurance, maintenance and fuel, can quickly add up. If you need help figuring out what you can realistically afford, use online tools like Chase’s Auto Loan Calculator to estimate your monthly payments. You can also use a tool like Autosave, which allows you to automate transfers from your Chase checking to Chase savings, to create a car fund for your future purchase.

2. Shop for deals

When buying a car, timing is everything. If you can, wait until the end of the month, end of the model year or end of the calendar year when dealers are trying to meet quotas or clear out inventory for new models. Your patience may help you get your ideal car at a great price.

Don’t forget to look for holiday sales! Christmas, New Year’s, Presidents Day, Memorial Day, July Fourth and Labor Day may yield great savings on this year’s and next year’s models.

Make sure you are considering multiple vehicles and shopping around at several dealerships to get the best price.

3. Take it for a spin

Once you’ve narrowed down the vehicles you’re most excited about, schedule test drives to see how it looks and feels, and to make sure it fits your needs.

Schedule test drives of different vehicles within the same day or week so your impression of each is fresh in your memory. Keep your daily driving conditions in mind and try to simulate them during your test. For example, if you’re a parent, bring a car seat to see how it fits.

After your test drive, make sure to ask about the warranties, fuel and maintenance requirements, extended test drives and the possibility of bringing the car to your own mechanic for a second opinion if buying pre-owned.

4. Weigh your financing options

Will you take out an auto loan or lease your car? Both financing options have their benefits. At the end of the day, it all comes down to which best fits your budget and lifestyle.

If you purchase your car using a loan, you don’t have to worry about mileage limits, and you’re free to customize the car. Once you pay it off, you own it outright. At Chase Auto, you can get pre-qualified for financing before even heading into the dealership. On the other hand, leasing typically has lower upfront costs than a loan payment. After the lease term, you can return, purchase or trade in your vehicle.

5. Consider electric

More and more major manufacturers are offering electric vehicles (EVs), so it’s a good idea to consider whether an EV fits your lifestyle. Cost, maintenance, range, and charging logistics are some key factors to think through.

Although the sticker price of an EV may be higher than that of a traditional gas vehicle, there are options to help offset the cost, such as federal and local tax incentives. Also, it typically costs less to charge your vehicle than to fill up a tank with gas[1]. It may be worth it to pay more upfront for possible long-term savings.

EVs typically require less maintenance than traditional cars. Also, EV batteries tend to be covered by 8- to 10-year warranties[2], outlasting the time most people own their cars. That said, EV tires degrade faster due to the weight of the battery, so keep that in mind when calculating the long-term costs of ownership.

Finally, consider how far you drive your car and if charging stations are nearby. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the range of an EV with a fully charged battery could be between 110 to 300 miles[3], but that number depends on the make and model as well as other factors like weather, traffic conditions and driving style. Also, when it comes to charging infrastructure, some cities and states may have more charging stations than others. Make sure to plan your trip ahead of time and map your route.

Ultimately, it is best to stay open to different options on the market. Research different vehicle options and financing programs, and make sure to shop at several dealerships so you can get a vehicle that’s a fit for you, your family and your budget in 2024.

To learn more about car shopping and financing, visit autofinance.chase.com.

JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. Member FDIC

This article is for educational purposes only and provides general auto information. The material is not intended to provide legal, tax, or financial advice or to indicate the availability or suitability of any JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. product or service. Outlooks and past performance are not guarantees of future results. Chase is not responsible for, and does not provide or endorse third party products, services or other content. For specific advice about your circumstances, you may wish to consult a qualified professional.

2023-12-19T10:21:00

(BPT) – Gift-giving and the holidays are practically synonymous, but you’ve likely forgotten to get a gift for someone special. Can you guess who? You! LG Electronics USA is here to help you pick out a present that will bring you joy during the holidays and beyond. Check out these nine appliances that will bring cheer, convenience and comfort to your daily life.

1. Smart induction slide-in electric range oven

Upgrade your cooking experience with the Smart Induction Slide-in Range with InstaView^®, ProBake Convection^®, Air Fry and Air Sous Vide. The all-in-one range transfers heat directly to your cookware for faster and safer heating, even cooking and precision temperature control.

Equipped with an InstaView Window, you can see inside without opening the door, keeping the heat inside where it belongs. Cleaning is a breeze with the EasyClean Oven feature that cleans the oven without chemicals or high heat in just 10 minutes!

2. Smart combination wall oven

Cook like a pro and maximize your kitchen space with the Smart Combination Wall Oven with InstaView^®, True Convection, Air Fry, and Steam Sous Vide. The versatile appliance uses TurboCook and Infrared Heating™ to cook up to four times faster than other wall ovens.

You can easily monitor the internal temperature of a dish by simply inserting the built-in Temperature Probe. Once it has reached the desired temperature, the oven turns off automatically. Other features include an EasyClean Oven, Backlit LED SmoothTouch^® Glass Controls and a PrintProof^® Finish.

3. Smart top control dishwasher

Dishwashing will be easier than ever before with the Smart Top Control Dishwasher with 1-Hour Wash & Dry, QuadWash^® Pro, TrueSteam^® and Dynamic Heat Dry. The ultimate one-hour wash and dry cycle uses LG’s exclusive QuadWash^® Pro and Dynamic Heat Dry™ technologies.

Experience efficient, pro-level cleaning with high-pressure jets that offer 38% more cleaning power than similar models. You won’t have to worry about food residue because TrueSteam^® technology penetrates deeply to take care of any leftover scum, leaving 60% fewer water spots. Like all LG dishwashers, it’s certified by the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF).

4. Smart French door refrigerator

Keep your food fresh and organized in the stylish 26 cu. ft. Smart InstaView^® Counter-Depth MAX™ French Door Refrigerator. The standard-capacity refrigerator offers a sleek, counter-depth design with 25% more space.

The refrigerator also uses linear cooling, a three-layer air filter and the ThinQ app, which automatically connects to your smartphone to notify you about usage, maintenance suggestions and early diagnosis for repairs. Let this fridge bring convenience and style to your kitchen!

5. Smart front-load washer

Transform your laundry routine using LG’s 5.0 / 4.5. cu. ft. Mega Capacity Smart Front Load Energy Star Washer with TurboWash™ 360° and AI DD^® Built-In Intelligence. Its TurboWash™ 360° features five powerful jets that clean big loads in just under 30 minutes. Also, you can clean 18 loads with one easy fill of detergent.

Built-in AI technology gets smarter with every wash, taking the guesswork out of laundry. Meanwhile, Smart Pairing™ can tell the dryer to select a compatible drying cycle. Say goodbye to allergens. The washer reduces dust, pollen and pet dander in fabrics by more than 95% and is certified asthma and allergy friendly by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA). Even if you don’t enjoy laundry, you’ll be thankful for how easy this washer makes this necessary household chore.

6. Single-battery cordless stick vacuum

Are you ready for hassle-free cleaning? LG’s CordZero™ Cordless Stick Vacuum Single Battery should be your go-to appliance this season. The LG Smart Inverter Motor™ offers powerful suction, backed by a 10-year limited warranty for lasting peace of mind. With an 80-minute runtime, a portable charging stand and easy maintenance thanks to the ThinQ App, you’ll easily handle everyday cleanups.

7. All-in-one cordless stick vacuum/mop

Take cleaning to the next level with the CordZero™ All in One Auto Empty Cordless Stick Vacuum with Auto Empty & Power Mop. The appliance comes with a vacuum to wet mop technology so you can clean any surface.

The stick vacuum quickly transforms into a hand vacuum with a telescopic wand. When you’re done, dock the appliance and watch as the docking tower cleans it of dust and debris. Kompressor technology easily compresses dirt and dust with 2.4 times more bin capacity. Comes with two batteries, so you can tackle long cleaning projects.

8. Smart steam closet

Freshen your wardrobe with the gentle power of steam using the LG Styler^® Smart Wi-Fi Enabled Steam Closet with TrueSteam^® Technology and Exclusive Moving Hangers. Its TrueSteam^® technology lets you care for hard-to-wash items without chemicals, so you can continue to wear them again and again with little to no hassle.

Certified by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA), the steam closet helps remove airborne allergens while deodorizing and freshening items. The innovative appliance is ThinQ compatible, sending proactive alerts right to your smartphone to keep your steam closet running smoothly. No need to call an electrician or plumber for installation. The sleek, simple design can be plugged in anywhere!

9. Air purifier

Breathe easier with an air purifier like the LG PuriCare™ AeroTower™ Air Purifying Fan. This must-have appliance uses an Advanced True HEPA filter to capture 99.97% of fine dust and allergens as small as 0.3 microns. Smells will be a thing of the past thanks to the deodorizing filter that reduces odor and harmful organic compounds. Not to mention LG’s exclusive UVnano™ LED technology kills 99.9% of bacteria on the fan blades, so you can breathe healthier air. Plus, three airflow options and a fan will keep you cool year-round.

This holiday season, don’t settle for the ordinary! Invest in these essential home appliances to upgrade your everyday life with comfort, convenience and efficiency. To learn more about these and other appliances, visit LG.com/US.