Category: Brandpoint Lifestyle

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.

2023-12-18T05:01:00

(BPT) – Childproofing your home isn’t just for babies. As kids grow, so does their ability to find new things to explore, some of which can be safety hazards hidden in plain sight. Be sure you know how to spot these hazards and the safety tips to help keep little ones safe throughout the years.

Read on about important safety measures you can take to childproof your home, based on the age and development of your child.

Newborn

Begin childproofing before your child is on the move. Installing safety products helps parents be ready before the baby starts crawling (which happens overnight!) and teaches children what is off-limits.

Begin childproofing your home by doing the following and consider these safety tips:

• Never place a crib, playpen, bed or any type of low-standing furniture near a window. In exploring their surroundings, young children can accidentally fall through an open window or window screen, or become entangled in a nearby window covering cord.
• Dangling or accessible cords on window coverings can pose a ‎strangulation hazard to infants and young children.‎ Replace all corded window coverings with cordless products. It’s easy to know which are cordless — look for the Best for Kids label on products available at all major U.S. retailers. Visit windowcoverings.org for more information.
• Keep baby’s crib free of pillows, bumpers, stuffed animals and blankets as they can be a suffocation hazard.
• Place baby monitors and their electrical cords at least three feet away from the crib.
• Anchor TVs and tip-over furniture to the wall, such as dressers and bookcases.
• Anchor the changing pad to dresser with the safety latch provided.

Crawler

Crawling and cruising children will grab on to almost any surface and may pick up any item within reach. They explore by putting things in their mouths as well. This is a very curious time for children which requires additional supervision.

• Be sure all the items from the newborn section have been completed.
• Cover electrical outlets lower than counter height.
• Keep household cleaners and medicines out of reach. Install child locks on cabinets.
• If you still have corded window coverings, for safety’s sake, replace them with safer cordless options.
• Turn pot handles inward on the stove and use back burners.
• Install safety gates at the top and bottom of stairs.
• Never leave your baby alone in the bath; keep one hand on the child at all times.
• Avoid toys with small parts when shopping for children under age three (3) and children who mouth toys. Test the size of toys and other objects around the home with a Small Parts Tester.

Toddler

Be prepared to give lots of clear reminders about safety, as young children don’t always understand safety concerns. Make sure that the steps in the previous stages have been completed, and work on the following.

• Store toys in an easily accessible place. Choose a toybox without a lid which can fall on little fingers or trap little ones inside.
• Adjust your water heater temperature to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Curious hands can turn on water sooner than you think and can cause serious burns.
• Place hot foods and liquids on the center of tables and countertops, not on edges or placemats.
• Secure doors that lead to stairways, driveways and storage areas.
• Never leave a child alone in a bathtub, wading pool or other body of water.
• Store dangerous tools and gardening equipment in a locked shed or cabinet.
• Keep all button batteries out of reach. If swallowed, button batteries can cause injury or death.

Early Elementary Age

“Big kids” can understand why some items and actions are dangerous, but still need safety precautions and guidance, as their impulses often push them to do what they know is forbidden or exciting. Make sure certain hazards are contained and they have a good understanding of safety do’s and don’ts.

• Teach your child the right way to use simple kitchen tools and appliances.
• Keep matches and lighters up high and out of reach.
• Teach children how to respond to the sound of a smoke alarm at home. Make an escape plan and practice it with your kids.
• Teach them how to dial 911 in case of emergency.
• Teach kids to never play in your parked car.

No matter the age of your kids, your family deserves to feel safe at home. For more tips on childproofing your home, visit The Window Covering Safety Council.

2023-12-18T08:07:00

(BPT) – According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, nearly 740,000 people were injured in large-truck crashes from 2016 to 2020, exceeding the previous five-year total by nearly 44%.

To make matters worse, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported 5,788 fatalities resulting from large-truck accidents in 2021.

Drivers of large trucks are often blamed for these alarming metrics due to the sheer size of commercial trucks. However, crash data and analysis indicate that other parties are more commonly at fault.

“Research from the American Trucking Association has revealed that passenger vehicle drivers are at fault in nearly 75% of all fatal car-truck crashes,” says Cliff Johnson, trucking business segment consultant, Acuity Insurance. “This showcases just how important it is for motorists to know how to safely share the road with truck drivers.”

As Johnson indicates, drivers of passenger vehicles can play a pivotal role in mitigating truck collisions. The following tips represent best practices that can help motorists improve roadway safety and reduce future crash totals:

1. How to Pass a Truck

It can take nearly the distance of two football fields for a truck that’s traveling at 65 miles per hour to come to a complete stop. If you need to pass a truck, try to do so on the left-hand side. After confirming that you have enough space to completely pass the truck, use your directional signals and ensure you can see the entire front of the vehicle in your rearview mirror before moving back into the trucker’s lane.

2. Avoid Driving in No-Zones

If you can’t see a truck driver in either of the truck’s side mirrors, you are in the driver’s blind spot. Steering clear of the following areas can ensure your vehicle is always visible:

• Up to 20 feet in front of the hood
• Up to 200 feet behind the trailer
• The area from the driver’s door to the trailer bulkhead
• The passenger side from the front bumper to the back of the trailer up to three lanes wide

3. Keep Your Distance

Driving too close to a large truck can prevent you from having enough time to react to roadway hazards, which can result in serious rear-end crashes. When traveling at highway speeds, keep enough distance to see mirrors on both sides of the truck. In slower traffic areas, you should always be far enough away to at least see the truck’s driver-side mirror.

4. Provide Space on Turns

Due to their width and size, large trucks require significantly more space than a passenger vehicle when making turns. As truck drivers often swing wide to complete right- or left-hand turns to avoid contact with a curb, median or sidewalk, never drive along the side of a truck when it’s turning — even if there appears to be space. Also, be sure your vehicle is positioned behind the intersection’s stop line to ensure trucks have enough room to maneuver through crossroads or intersections.

“Keeping our roads safe is a responsibility we all share,” Johnson says. “That’s why mutual respect and awareness are essential to reducing accidents.”

While these safety tips can help you avoid roadway collisions, accidents still happen. Contact an independent insurance agent to ensure your vehicle and financial future are adequately protected from the effects of roadway mishaps.

2023-12-15T14:11:00

(BPT) – Are you planning holiday travel or looking forward to vacations in 2024? As you make your packing list and check it twice, don’t forget about cybersecurity.

While fraudsters work year-round, holiday travels provide many opportunities for them to steal personal information and dampen your holiday festivities. However, with a little preparation, you can protect yourself and your devices so you can focus on celebrating the season with your loved ones. So, as you gear up to travel over the river, through the woods, and into the skies this holiday season, use the following tips to safeguard your information.

1. Get smart before you leave home

Keep the season jolly and bright by locking cellphones, tablets, laptops and all other devices. Create strong, unique passwords that combine at least eight numbers, letters and special characters.

Don’t forget to get your devices travel-ready by updating all operating systems and apps. This helps ensure your devices are protected from any known vulnerabilities. For an added layer of security, protect your smartphones and laptops with security software like Norton 360.

2. BYOC: Bring Your Own Charger

Even something as innocuous as charging your device in a public area poses a security risk. For example, hackers may have tampered with a USB port at a public charging station, a tactic known as “juice jacking,” which allows them to access your personal information once you plug in.

This holiday, gift yourself a portable charger and a new power cord to keep your data safe. Don’t access or enter any private information and power off your devices when charging.

3. Stay clear of public Wi-Fi and opt for a VPN

Free public networks at airports, hotels, coffee shops, and even airplanes are incredibly convenient. However, they can also make you an easy target for hackers looking to dampen your holiday cheer. Your personal data and passwords — including sent emails, banking information and credit card details — will be exposed, leaving you vulnerable to identity theft.

Protect your identity and other sensitive information by using a virtual private network (VPN). A VPN allows you to hide your online activity so cybercriminals can’t see your location or activity. Also, be sure to disable automatic Wi-Fi connections to prevent your device from unknowingly connecting to unsecured networks.

4. Beat the Bluetooth bandits

Bluetooth-connected headphones, game consoles, or other devices are a great way to pass the time during long layovers, flights or road trips to grandma’s house for the holidays. However, those connections are also vulnerable to hacker attacks like BlueSnarfing, BlueJacking or eavesdropping.

When not in use, turn off Bluetooth and avoid keeping your device in discoverable mode, which makes it visible to others. Secure your connection by using PINS, passkeys or other secure pairing methods. Disable automatic pairing to prevent unauthorized devices from connecting to you.

5. Hold off on sharing

The holidays may be a season for sharing, but don’t share information that can compromise your safety. Broadcasting your travel plans or location on social media can be a risk to your physical safety. Also, sharing your vacation information exposes you to threats like identity theft, phishing and other online scams.

Wait until you return from your trip to post photos to prevent bad actors from accessing your geotag data. If you post to social media while traveling, turn off location services and avoid ‘check-ins’ that reveal your location.

Never post photos of tickets, boarding passes or passports even after you’ve returned home from your holiday adventures. If you do post travel documents, make sure you cover up the barcodes and primary info.

During the holidays and beyond, vacation with peace of mind so you can focus on the spirit of the season. Using these top five tips, you can stay cyber savvy and focus on spending time with those you love most this season.

You can make your travels even more secure by getting comprehensive Cyber Safety protection like Norton 360 with LifeLock Select, which offers antivirus, malware, ransomware, hacking protection, a password manager, privacy monitoring, parental controls, and a VPN to help keep your internet browsing private. LifeLock monitors possible threats and helps you recover should your identity be stolen. To learn more about how you can be Cyber Safe this travel season, visit US.Norton.com.

2023-12-15T11:45:00

(BPT) – The holiday season is upon us, and with it comes the flurry of festivities — parties and family gatherings bring joy and merriment but it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the task of entertaining, especially if you’re in charge of cooking.

Luckily this year, Sun-Maid is here to help you pull off the holidays and make decking the halls easier than ever. The secret ingredient? Raisins.

From bite-sized appetizers to delicious entrees and decadent desserts, these dried fruits are a versatile addition that will add the perfect hint of sweetness to any holiday dish. Rediscover the magic of holiday entertaining with these five recipes from Sun-Maid that are as simple as they are scrumptious and, most importantly, let the season be sweet and stress-free!

1. Raisin Puff Pastry Tarte Soleil

If there’s one appetizer that will seriously impress your guests, it’s the French-inspired tarte soleil: A pull-apart puff pastry with a twisted design. This version takes a savory route with artichoke hearts, feta cheese and spinach, while adding natural sweetness with Sun-Maid Raisins. The flaky puff pastry is topped with a homemade gremolata for a vibrant and fresh taste.

2. Pesto Raisin Orzo

This four-ingredient, easy-to-make side dish requires minimum prep time and is a sweet-and-savory addition to any holiday meal. Plus, it makes enough to please a crowd. Simply cook the orzo, mix in pesto, raisins and feta cheese, and you’re done in less than 15 minutes.

3. Pinwheel Cookies

If you’re looking for a new cookie to add to your holiday repertoire, this is an easy one that looks as delicious as it tastes. The pinwheel filling includes the natural, nutty sweetness of raisins and toasted walnuts — and they only take 15 minutes in the oven!

4. Holiday Cinnamon Spiced Popcorn

This is a fun and festive snack that’s perfect for party favors or a unique addition to your next cookie exchange gathering. Don’t forget to sprinkle in raisins at the end for added sweetness.

5. “Forget Fruitcake” Cookies

Created by celebrity pastry chef, TV host and recipe matchmaker Duff Goldman, this slightly more elaborate dessert is sure to wow your loved ones. Since there are a few extra steps in this one, Chef Duff advises prepping the ingredients and dough ahead of time for stress-free baking.

Bid farewell to holiday headaches and let these tasty treats and dishes inspire your time in the kitchen during the holidays and beyond. For full recipes and more innovative ideas, visit www.sunmaid.com/pullofftheholidays.

2023-12-14T10:17:00

(BPT) – Are you ready to boost your gut health while enjoying a tasty, tangy drink? Try kombucha!

Kombucha has become an incredibly popular beverage, and it’s not hard to see why. The fermented tea has naturally occurring probiotics and beneficial bacteria that can improve digestion, enhance immune function and even increase energy levels.

If you want to reap the health benefits of this versatile, but often overlooked drink, check out these five fun and easy ways to add kombucha into your daily routine.

1. Straight up

The simplest way to enjoy kombucha is straight on its own. Many grocery stores now carry single-serve bottles or refillable growlers in a variety of flavors. Enjoy a bottle or glass with your meals, post-workout or any time you want!

For those on the go, it can be inconvenient to carry a bottle everywhere. You can drink kombucha any time of day, wherever you roam, by keeping a few stick packs of AdvoCare Harmony™ on hand. Harmony is a portable, powdered kombucha that allows you to enjoy a glass of delicious pomegranate lemonade kombucha wherever, whenever without some of the tanginess found in other products.

2. Mix up a mocktail

Spice up your social gatherings with kombucha mocktails. Simply mix kombucha with freshly squeezed juice, sparkling water or ginger beer as your base, add flavored simple syrup for a bit of sweetness and garnish with herbs and fruit slices. Serve on its own or over ice.

If you need ideas, just pick your favorite cocktail recipe and substitute alcohol for kombucha. For example, you can make a Kombucha Sunrise with orange juice and grenadine. Your guests will love this fun twist on classic drinks.

3. Serve up a smoothie

Want to upgrade your morning routine? Blend kombucha with your favorite fruits, vegetables and yogurt to start your day with a probiotic punch. From a tropical paradise to berry blast concoctions, you’ll enjoy this unique, gut-friendly twist on your regular smoothie.

For added convenience and nutrients, make the smoothie using a Harmony stick pack. The 1 billion CFU of probiotics with added prebiotic and postbiotic, vitamins A, C, E, Zinc and Selenium will help you start your day on the right foot.

4. Stir up a salad dressing

Tired of traditional salad dressings? Give your salads a boost of flavor with a tangy kombucha vinaigrette. Mix kombucha with olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey and your favorite herbs and spices to create a zesty dressing. Drizzle kombucha vinaigrette over your favorite greens to elevate your lunch or dinner and easily incorporate more probiotics into your diet.

5. Sip a refreshing kombucha iced tea

Because kombucha is a fermented tea, it effortlessly combines with other iced teas to create a refreshing, health-conscious drink you can enjoy on a warm, sunny day.

Blend your preferred kombucha flavor with your favorite iced tea in a tall glass with ice. Feel free to add garnishes like citrus slices or herbs. It’s a cooling, hydrating alternative to traditional, sugary iced teas. Also, the added probiotics support your digestive health!

Try any (or all) of these five fantastic ways to incorporate kombucha into your regular diet. You’ll enjoy the taste, and your stomach will thank you! To learn more about the benefits of kombucha and more fun ways to add it to your regular routine, visit Advocare.com/Harmony.

2023-12-14T20:01:00

(BPT) – Are you interested in finding more sustainable options when it comes to the products and processes you use in your home every day? Using more environmentally friendly and sustainable products is top of mind for many households, and the bathroom is one place where even a few small choices can make a big impact.

To transform your bathroom into an oasis of sustainability, here are some simple swaps and practices you can try.

1. Start with your seat

Did you know there’s a toilet seat made from 100% recycled material? The Mayfair Greenleaf toilet seat by Bemis is the only seat and lid on the market created entirely from post-industrial recycled plastic, while also offering durability and style. On top of its modern design, its patented Stay•Tite installation system ensures a secure, shift-free fit, along with slow close hinges that eliminate the jarring sound of slamming. All of these elements make it a great choice you can feel good about incorporating into your home.

Mayfair by Bemis Greenleaf toilet seat is available in a classic white finish and elongated design, making green living accessible to every bathroom. You can find it on HomeDepot.com, Amazon.com and ToiletSeats.com.

2. Find better paper

One of the ways you can make your bathroom much more sustainable is through your choice of toilet paper. Instead of selecting paper made from virgin wood pulp, you can save more trees by looking for paper products that are made from recycled paper or bamboo fibers. Today’s marketplace offers more options than ever before, so it’s worth shopping around and trying different products to find one you like best.

3. Use water smartly

If water conservation is a top concern for you, several approaches can help reduce how much water is being used — and your monthly water bills, too. Here are some easy ways to reduce water use in your bathroom:

• Choose showers over baths. Showers use less water, especially when you keep them shorter. You can also opt for a lower-flow shower head to further reduce water waste.
• Need to run water to heat it up? Consider putting a bucket in the bathtub to collect some of this water for later use in cleaning or for watering plants.
• Catch leaks early. Having a plumber stop by to check for leaks before anything catastrophic happens will not only prevent expensive water damage down the road, but can also reduce water waste. Or start by simply updating small things like your toilet flapper if it hasn’t been replaced for a while, as leaks in the toilet tank begin gradually.
• Aerate your water. Most bathroom faucets come with an aerator today, but if yours doesn’t have one, or if it’s not working well, they are easy to install or replace yourself.

4. Launder towels in cold water

Laundry detergents have come a long way, and most of them will work just as effectively in cold water today. According to the American Cleaning Institute, 90% of the energy used by a washing machine goes toward just heating up the water, so you can wash your washrags, bath and hand towels in cold water to help save a lot of energy. If you’re concerned about sanitizing your towels sufficiently, consider adding laundry sanitizer to your loads.

5. Warm up your floor

An increasingly popular way to reduce energy consumption is by installing in-floor radiant heating, which is very energy efficient as well as long-lasting. While it feels super luxurious to step out of the shower onto a heated floor, it’s actually much more thrifty, because in-floor heating is far more efficient than forced-air heating.

Prioritizing the environment begins with simple changes throughout your home. Using these tips, you can start making a positive impact with small, everyday choices you can feel good about.

2023-12-14T08:01:00

(BPT) – Eleven-year-old Quinn has faced the fears and anxieties that come with a critical illness diagnosis. At 11 days old, she was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis. However, Quinn’s condition has not dimmed her passion for life. Her desire for excitement and adventure keeps her going despite her challenges.

When Quinn was asked, “If you could have one wish, what would it be?” she did not hesitate. She said she wished to go on a tropical vacation with her family.

In partnership with Make-A-Wish^® New Jersey, Subaru of Cherry Hill made Quinn’s wish come true by hosting a send-off party for Quinn. She thought she was going to look at cars with her family at Subaru of Cherry Hill but was surprised by family, friends and community members.

The party included all her favorite things, a Kona Ice truck and fire dancer, plus exciting gifts for her trip. After an exciting limo ride to the airport, Quinn spent a week in the sun, experiencing the local culture and seeking thrills on a zipline. Her trip allowed her to relax, recharge and make lifelong memories with her family.

“We know how physically and emotionally difficult medical treatments can be for children and their families,” said John Daqui, general sales manager at Subaru of Cherry Hill. “As a supporter of Make-A-Wish New Jersey, we hope to provide local children like Quinn with strength and positivity to fight against a critical illness.”

Transforming lives, one wish at a time

Quinn is just one example of the many children across the U.S. whose wish has been granted thanks to the partnership between Subaru and Make-A-Wish. According to Make-A-Wish, about 27,000 children are diagnosed with a critical illness each year.

Through the annual Subaru Share the Love^® Event, more than 600 Subaru retailers across the country partner with Make-A-Wish to support children and families impacted by a critical illness. Since 2011, the automaker and its retailers have donated more than $32 million, helping grant more than 3,300 wishes in the U.S.

“We are humbled and thankful for the ongoing support from Subaru of Cherry Hill,” said Michael Dominick, assistant vice president of marketing and communications for Make-A-Wish New Jersey. “A wish can be a game-changer for children like Quinn, courageously facing a critical illness. It can restore hope when hope is needed most and serve as a catalyst for renewed strength for entire families.”

Quinn’s wish isn’t the only one Subaru will help grant this year. Now through Jan. 2, 2024, Subaru will donate $250 to the customer’s choice of charities for every new Subaru vehicle purchased or leased at any participating Subaru retailer, and Make-A-Wish is one of the benefitting organizations.

Retailers can select up to two hometown charities in their local communities to receive at least an additional $50 for each new vehicle sold or leased. Also, participating Subaru retailers will donate $5 to their registered hometown charities for every Subaru vehicle routine service visit during the campaign period.

To learn more about the automaker’s long-standing partnership with Make-A-Wish and how you and other customers can bring joy back into the lives of children with critical illnesses like Quinn, visit Wish.org/Subaru.