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Spring Lawn Equipment: Get Ready for Backyarding in High Style This Year

(NAPSI)—Backyarding is the new trend that’s emerged during the pandemic. Our backyards are where we eat, work, play, relax and socialize, and the green spaces around our homes have proven to be vibrant places for connection and vital to maintaining mental health.So how do you get ready for lots of springtime backyarding? You organize your yard and ready your landscaping. “Take some time to plan out your yard with your family. Once you know the purpose you want it to serve, it’s time to start working with it,” said Kris Kiser, President and CEO of the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI), an international trade association representing outdoor power equipment, small engine, utility vehicle, golf car and personal transport vehicle manufacturers and suppliers. “A well-cared for lawn and landscape provides the canvas for a year-round backyarding lifestyle. You’ll want to get out there with your outdoor power equipment, like your lawn mower and trimmers, as soon as spring arrives, and you want to do it safely,” said Kiser. He offered the following tips to get lawn equipment ready for spring: Refresh your knowledge. Read your equipment owner’s manuals and follow all manufacturer’s guidelines. If you find a manual online, save a digital copy for future reference.Look over equipment. Lots can happen in a garage or storage shed over the winter. Check the air filter, oil level and gasoline tank. Watch for loose belts and missing or damaged parts. Replace any parts needed or take your equipment to a qualified service representative. Check to be sure that you have the appropriate batteries if needed.Drain fuel tanks. If you didn’t empty the gasoline tank before storing equipment, drain it now. Fuel should never sit in outdoor power equipment for more than 30 days. Untreated gasoline (without a fuel stabilizer) will deteriorate, which may cause starting or running problems or damage the fuel system.Protect your power. Use only E10 or less fuel in gasoline-powered outdoor power equipment. Most manufacturers recommend a fuel stabilizer be used, especially if you don’t use up all the fuel in the tank right away. Any fuel containing more than 10 percent ethanol can damage small engine equipment not designed for it.Store fuel safely. Label fuel cans with the date of purchase and ethanol content of the fuel. If you don’t know the date of purchase, dispose safely of the fuel and buy fresh gasoline. Always store fuel out of the reach of children or pets and in approved containers.Don’t mix up your battery packs. For battery-powered equipment, use only the charger specified by the manufacturer. A charger that is suitable for one type of battery pack may create a risk of fire when used with another. Follow all charging instructions and do not charge the battery pack or tool outside the temperature range specified in the instructions.Stash batteries safely. When the battery pack is not in use, keep it away from other metal objects, like paper clips, coins, keys, nails, screws or other small metal objects, that can make a connection from one terminal to another. Shorting the battery terminals together may cause burns or a fire.Tidy up. Clean equipment will run more efficiently and last longer. Clean equipment and store it in a dry place. Remove dirt, oil or grass. Never store equipment in a place that is damp or wet.For further information on safe fueling, go to www.LookBeforeYouPump.com.

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Recent Headlines

Friday 03/05/2021

3 major benefits of the Extra Help program

Posted: March 05, 2021

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(BPT) - Maintaining your quality of life can become more challenging as you age. In addition to routine living expenses, your medical bills may begin to pile up, consuming more and more of your limited income.

Companies call for projects that will connect neighbors and uplift communities across the U.S.

Posted: March 05, 2021

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(BPT) - H&R Block and Nextdoor, like-minded companies with deep commitments to neighborhood connections, have once again teamed up to bring much-needed improvement projects to communities across the country. Individuals are encouraged to submit project ideas that build connections between neighbors while also uplifting small businesses. Project nominations are being accepted through March 31. Nextdoor and H&R Block will select and bring to life select submissions in 2021.

Spring Lawn Equipment: Get Ready for Backyarding in High Style This Year

Posted: March 05, 2021

Advertorial

(NAPSI)—Backyarding is the new trend that’s emerged during the pandemic. Our backyards are where we eat, work, play, relax and socialize, and the green spaces around our homes have proven to be vibrant places for connection and vital to maintaining mental health.

So how do you get ready for lots of springtime backyarding? You organize your yard and ready your landscaping.

“Take some time to plan out your yard with your family. Once you know the purpose you want it to serve, it’s time to start working with it,” said Kris Kiser, President and CEO of the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI), an international trade association representing outdoor power equipment, small engine, utility vehicle, golf car and personal transport vehicle manufacturers and suppliers.

“A well-cared for lawn and landscape provides the canvas for a year-round backyarding lifestyle. You’ll want to get out there with your outdoor power equipment, like your lawn mower and trimmers, as soon as spring arrives, and you want to do it safely,” said Kiser.

He offered the following tips to get lawn equipment ready for spring:

Refresh your knowledge. Read your equipment owner’s manuals and follow all manufacturer’s guidelines. If you find a manual online, save a digital copy for future reference.

Look over equipment. Lots can happen in a garage or storage shed over the winter. Check the air filter, oil level and gasoline tank. Watch for loose belts and missing or damaged parts. Replace any parts needed or take your equipment to a qualified service representative. Check to be sure that you have the appropriate batteries if needed.

Drain fuel tanks. If you didn’t empty the gasoline tank before storing equipment, drain it now. Fuel should never sit in outdoor power equipment for more than 30 days. Untreated gasoline (without a fuel stabilizer) will deteriorate, which may cause starting or running problems or damage the fuel system.

Protect your power. Use only E10 or less fuel in gasoline-powered outdoor power equipment. Most manufacturers recommend a fuel stabilizer be used, especially if you don’t use up all the fuel in the tank right away. Any fuel containing more than 10 percent ethanol can damage small engine equipment not designed for it.

Store fuel safely. Label fuel cans with the date of purchase and ethanol content of the fuel. If you don’t know the date of purchase, dispose safely of the fuel and buy fresh gasoline. Always store fuel out of the reach of children or pets and in approved containers.

Don’t mix up your battery packs. For battery-powered equipment, use only the charger specified by the manufacturer. A charger that is suitable for one type of battery pack may create a risk of fire when used with another. Follow all charging instructions and do not charge the battery pack or tool outside the temperature range specified in the instructions.

Stash batteries safely. When the battery pack is not in use, keep it away from other metal objects, like paper clips, coins, keys, nails, screws or other small metal objects, that can make a connection from one terminal to another. Shorting the battery terminals together may cause burns or a fire.

Tidy up. Clean equipment will run more efficiently and last longer. Clean equipment and store it in a dry place. Remove dirt, oil or grass. Never store equipment in a place that is damp or wet.

For further information on safe fueling, go to www.LookBeforeYouPump.com.

Beat the winter woes with 5 expert body care tips

Posted: March 05, 2021

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(BPT) - The winter months can be especially tough on your skin — from your head down to your toes. Between the brutal frigid temps outside to the heated indoor air, there’s no escaping the conditions that can dry out your skin.

Want a better career? STEM online programs can help you get there

Posted: March 05, 2021

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(BPT) - As the job market increasingly calls for STEM professionals (science, technology, engineering and math), more online programs are emerging that can help students study for such careers.

4 Tips for Reducing Your Plastic Footprint at Home

Posted: March 05, 2021

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(StatePoint) Plastic contributes to climate change and is a major pollutant, harming wildlife and people. With Earth Day around the corner, here are a few tips for reducing your plastic footprint at home that will also contribute to a healthier planet.

Ready, Set…Refresh! Quick Tips to Revitalize Your Most-Used Spaces

Posted: March 05, 2021

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(StatePoint) Have the cold winter months left your home feeling a bit dirty, drab or disorganized? Are you feeling the urge to purge? Then it’s time for some spring cleaning. With a few simple tips and tricks, your home—and mood—can be refreshed and revitalized.

Thursday 03/04/2021

4 foods that can boost your immune system

Updated: March 06, 2021 - 2:31 am

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(BPT) - Your family’s health is of the utmost importance. And while you can't always control what germs you come in contact with, you can control the steps you take to fight them off.

more headlines »

Thursday 03/04/2021

How to choose the vehicle you need and the driving experience you want

Updated: March 06, 2021 - 2:31 am

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(BPT) - The pandemic changed travel habits considerably and forced everyone to reconsider how they get around safely.

Tankless water heaters poised as top 2021 home improvement trend

Updated: March 06, 2021 - 2:31 am

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(BPT) - You're likely thinking of improvements from a new perspective after spending more time at home or renovation ideas after recently purchasing a home. Because spaces are being utilized in different ways and utilities are getting used more frequently, you want smart upgrades that make life easier and more convenient. That's why tankless water heaters are gaining popularity: These modern systems make your home more comfortable, save space, lower costs and provide eco-friendly benefits.

Spring awakening: 5 expert tips to renew your lawn

Updated: March 06, 2021 - 2:31 am

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(BPT) - As a homeowner, now is the perfect time to start thinking about lawn care again. Spring is your first — and best — opportunity to get your outdoor living space in top shape for the warmer months ahead. And depending on where you live in the U.S., that window begins whenever the soil starts warming.

Optimal organization tips for your home office

Updated: March 06, 2021 - 2:31 am

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(BPT) - Sponsored by Office Depot

For Rare Cancer Patients, More Treatment Options Are Needed

Updated: March 06, 2021 - 2:31 am

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(BPT) - For someone with cancer, the right treatment option can mean the difference between life and death. While cancer research has made immense strides in the past decade and even the past few years, there is still much work to be done, especially for patients with rare cancers like Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia (WM).

Oral Care Tips for Parents by the Ages

Posted: March 04, 2021

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(StatePoint) Proper oral care is essential to overall wellness. Here are a few tips and strategies for each stage of your child’s development:

Wednesday 03/03/2021

An IRS Incentive To Save For Retirement

Updated: March 05, 2021 - 2:30 am

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(NAPSI)—Saving for retirement can be difficult in the best of times but even harder during the pandemic and challenging economy. One thing that can make it easier is the Saver’s Credit, a tax credit made available by the IRS to eligible taxpayers. The Saver’s Credit could reduce your federal income taxes when you save for retirement through a qualified retirement plan, such as a 401(k) plan or an Individual Retirement Account (IRA).

The 20th Annual Transamerica Retirement Survey found that just 45 percent of full-time workers and only 32 percent of part-time workers are aware of the Saver’s Credit. “People who are saving for retirement may be able to claim the Saver’s Credit and reduce their federal taxes,” says Catherine Collinson, CEO and president of nonprofit Transamerica Center for Retirement Studies®. “The Saver’s Credit is in addition to benefiting from the tax-advantaged treatment of saving for retirement. Many people could be confusing these two incentives, simply because the idea of a double tax benefit sounds too good to be true.”

What Is the Saver’s Credit?

It is a non-refundable tax credit for contributions an eligible taxpayer makes to a 401(k), 403(b) or similar employer-sponsored retirement plan, a traditional or Roth IRA, or an ABLE account. The maximum credit is $1,000 for single filers or individuals and $2,000 for married couples filing jointly.

Tips for Claiming the Saver’s Credit:

1.Check Your Eligibility

To be eligible, the maximum Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) for single filers is $32,500 in 2020 and $33,000 in 2021. For the head of a household, the AGI maximum is $48,750 in 2020 and $49,500 in 2021. For those who are married filing jointly, the AGI maximum is $65,000 in 2020 and $66,000 in 2021.

You must be 18 years or older by January 1 and cannot be a full-time student or be claimed as a dependent on another person’s tax return. The IRS offers a quiz to easily determine if you qualify for the Saver’s Credit.

2.Save for Retirement

To claim the Saver’s Credit for 2020, you must have contributed to a 401(k), a 403(b) or similar employer-sponsored retirement plan or an ABLE account during 2020. Contributions to traditional or Roth IRAs are also eligible for the credit. You have until April 15, 2021 to make an IRA contribution for tax year 2020. Rollover contributions are not eligible for the credit.

3.File Your Tax Return and Claim the Saver’s Credit

Let the IRS help you file your taxes. It has nine Free File partners that offer online tax preparation tools for free to taxpayers with an AGI of $72,000 or less. Learn more at www.irs.gov/FreeFile.

•On your federal tax returns, you claim the Saver’s Credit by subtracting it from your total federal income taxes, it is a dollar-for-dollar reduction in your taxes.

•If you are using an online tax preparation tool, be sure to answer questions about the Saver’s Credit, also referred to as the “Retirement Savings Contributions Credit,” or “Credit for Qualified Retirement Savings Contributions.”

•If you are preparing your tax return manually, complete Form 8880, Credit for Qualified Retirement Savings Contributions, to determine your exact credit rate and amount. Then transfer the amount to the designated line on Schedule 3. Information from Schedule 3 is then used on Forms 1040, 1040-SR, and 1040-NR.

•If you are using a professional tax preparer, be sure to ask about the Saver’s Credit.

“Consistently saving for retirement is fundamental to helping achieve financial security in retirement,” says Collinson. “Another way to help you boost your retirement savings is to directly deposit any tax refund into an IRA. Saving more now could help you reap more later.”

This important tax credit may help reduce what you owe in federal taxes or increase your refund. With so many people’s income being reduced since the pandemic, more Americans may be eligible to claim this credit. Help spread the word about the Saver’s Credit by telling family, friends, and colleagues.

For more details and resources on the Saver’s Credit in English and Spanish, visit Transamerica Center for Retirement Studies at www.transamericacenter.org/SaversCredit.

Transamerica Center for Retirement Studies is a division of Transamerica Institute®, a nonprofit, private foundation.

Teachers Learning Remotely

Updated: March 05, 2021 - 2:30 am

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(NAPSI)—If you are among the nearly four million teachers in America, according to National Center for Education estimates, here are no-cost digital resources that can support your teaching during these challenging times.

Educating Educators Digitally

School personnel can now sign up for a new series of six no-cost digital professional learning courses empowering educators with new strategies to support students’ success in school and beyond. The professional learning series for educators presents schools, particularly those from under-resourced communities, the access and materials needed to transform teaching during COVID-19 and beyond.

The first in the planned series of six professional learning modules supports teachers by focusing on student-centered approaches to foster innovative, relevant, and engaging STEM instruction. The module begins to redefine STEM by highlighting interdisciplinary learning, focusing on design principles and real-world connections, and rethinking skill building. Other modules focus on helping educators develop student-centered approaches, creating meaningful engagement strategies, promoting inquiry-based learning, and developing students’ critical thinking skills.

Users can access lessons that are digestible and immediately actionable, with each module designed so educators can put it into practice immediately. Lesson guides and supports let the series walk alongside the teacher and ensure fidelity of implementation.

The digital modules are designed as examples of how to bring the real world into the classroom. As teachers work to make learning relevant, it’s important to hold up these models as exemplars of the importance of their work.

Great teachers are always looking for ways to ground themselves in frameworks that let them reflect and improve their practice. All of the modules in the TGR EDU: Explore initiative, created in partnership with Discovery Education, are grounded in the use of inquiry as a way to engage and have students own their learning. The digital learning modules have real people attached to each of the lessons, providing instruction and coaching in effective practice so that teachers can expand their expertise and meaningfully engage all learners.

Learn More

For further information, visit www.tgreduexplore.org.

• Dr. Bihr is Vice President of Programs and Education at TGR Foundation, A Tiger Woods Charity, a nonprofit that empowers underserved students through education. To enhance classroom experiences around the world, TGR Foundation works closely with educators, taking their instructional skills to the next level with professional development learning modules, training videos and real-time digital workshops designed to improve the classroom teaching and learning experience. TGR EDU: Explore is a joint initiative with Discovery Education to deliver award-winning curriculum, family resources, and professional development to educators, students, and families nationwide.

Manejo de la enfermedad renal crónica: tome control de su salud

Updated: March 05, 2021 - 2:30 am

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(NAPSI)—La enfermedad renal crónica (ERC) es una afección grave que afecta al 15% de los adultos en los Estados Unidos, es decir, a unas 37 millones de personas. La enfermedad renal puede empeorar con el tiempo y causar insuficiencia renal y otras complicaciones graves.

Twice-Baked California Sweetpotatoes

Updated: March 06, 2021 - 2:31 am

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(NAPSI)—Trying to incorporate more healthy foods into your cooking repertoire? Think California Sweetpotatoes. Nutritious and delicious, California Sweetpotatoes are filled with plenty of vitamins and minerals, loaded with fiber and are heart healthy to boot.

There are endless ways, classic and creative, to enjoy California Sweetpotatoes. Take these Twice-Baked Sweetpotatoes, for example. They make an excellent side or even main dish—hello Meatless Monday—and, since California Sweetpotatoes are available year-round, you can switch things up with seasonal ingredients.

If you like getting creative in the kitchen, you’ll love using California Sweetpotatoes as a canvas for just about anything—savory and sweet.

Twice-Baked California Sweetpotatoes

Serves 4

4yellow/white-fleshed sweetpotatoes, about 12 oz each

1/3c sour cream

3T butter, room temperature, plus 1 T melted butter

1/2 c shredded Jack or mozzarella cheese

1/4c chopped fresh chives, divided

Salt and pepper to taste

1large egg, lightly beaten

1/4t paprika

Preheat oven to 400°F. Pierce sweetpotatoes with a fork, arrange on a rimmed baking sheet and bake until tender, about 1 hour (see note). Set aside until cool enough to handle, about 10 minutes. Cut 1/3 off top of each sweetpotato. Scoop flesh (including from tops) into a large bowl, leaving about 1/4-in on skins. Add sour cream and room temperature butter and mash. Stir in cheese, 3/4 of chives and salt and pepper to taste. Stir in egg. Fill sweetpotato shells with sweetpotato mixture, using a spoon or spatula to leave a textured surface. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with paprika. Return to baking sheet and bake until browned on top, 20 to 25 minutes. Sprinkle with remaining chives and serve.

Note: If you love baked sweetpotatoes but not how long they take to make, try this trick: microwave them on high for four minutes, then bake at 400°F until tender, 10 to 20 minutes. Or omit the oven altogether and simply microwave your sweetpotatoes until tender, six to eight minutes depending on their size.

For more recipes and information, visit www.casweetpotatoes.com.

Editor’s Note: This story can be useful to anyone and of particular interest to readers in the states of California, Arizona, Oregon, Washington, Nevada, Utah and Idaho.

Managing Chronic Kidney Disease: Take Charge Of Your Health

Updated: March 05, 2021 - 2:30 am

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(NAPSI)—Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a serious condition, affecting 15% of U.S. adults—an estimated 37 million Americans. Kidney disease can get worse over time and may lead to kidney failure and other serious complications.

Early-stage CKD has few or no symptoms. In fact, many people with CKD don’t know they have the disease. Ask your doctor if you are at risk and get tested. Early diagnosis can make a big difference.

Managing CKD may be challenging, but it is key to preventing or delaying serious health problems such as heart disease. The earlier you get involved in your kidney care, the better your chances of slowing disease progression and living longer and healthier.

Take an active role in managing your kidney disease by following these healthy lifestyle tips.

•Meet regularly with your health care team. Stay connected with your doctor, either in person or via telehealth. Meet with your health care team for help managing CKD, keep appointments even if you feel OK and create a care plan. Ask your doctor to explain test results and bring a list of questions or concerns to appointments.

•Manage blood pressure. Work with your health care team to develop a plan to meet your blood pressure goals. Steps to meet those goals may include eating heart-healthy and low-sodium meals and being active.

•Monitor blood glucose levels. Check your blood glucose level regularly if you have diabetes. Use the results to guide decisions about food, physical activity and medicines.

•Take medicines as prescribed. Your pharmacist and doctor need to know about all the medicines you take, including over-the-counter medicines. Tell your doctor about any side effects before stopping or changing how you take your medicine.

•Avoid nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and naproxen. NSAIDs are sold under many different brand names, so ask your pharmacist or doctor if the medicines are safe for you to use.

•Stay up to date on vaccinations. The COVID-19 vaccine is especially important for people who may be more likely to get very sick from COVID-19, including people with certain medical conditions such as kidney disease.

•Aim for a healthy weight. If you are overweight or have obesity, work with your health care team to create a weight-loss plan.

•Develop a healthy meal plan. Create a meal plan that contains kidney-healthy foods and beverages. Ask your doctor about finding a registered dietitian who can help.

•Find ways to reduce stress and make physical activity part of your routine. Consider healthy, stress-reducing activities and get at least 30 minutes of physical activity daily.

•Get enough sleep. Aim for 7 to 8 hours of sleep per night. Try establishing a bedtime routine if you have trouble sleeping.

•Quit smoking. Smoking cigarettes can make kidney damage worse.

If you have financial or resource challenges that make it difficult to start or maintain these behaviors—such as difficulty paying for medicines, providing enough food for you and your family or finding a safe place for physical activity—ask your health care team about support programs that may be available to help.

The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) spearheads research to help improve kidney disease management and treatment. “It’s important to educate patients and their health care providers about ways to treat and manage chronic kidney disease,” said NIDDK Director Dr. Griffin P. Rodgers. “People should know their risk factors, like underlying health conditions. And they should know that, if diagnosed, chronic kidney disease is manageable. Staying engaged and managing the disease’s progression protects the kidneys.”

For more information on managing CKD, visit the NIDDK website at www.niddk.nih.gov.

Aging in the Research Triangle: Keeping your brain healthy

Updated: March 06, 2021 - 2:31 am

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(BPT) - With people being more active and healthier than ever at any age, today's retirement isn't about slowing down. It's about having the time for growth, discovery and expanding horizons. For retirees, or those looking ahead to retirement, one place to find all of the above is in North Carolina's Research Triangle.

Understanding Key Differences Between COVID-19 PCR and Antigen Tests [Infographic]

Updated: March 05, 2021 - 2:30 am

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(BPT) - With the COVID-19 pandemic still affecting every aspect of life, continued testing is crucial to reopening our businesses and entertainment facilities. Having accurate and reliable tests has remained critical to understanding infection rates and spread, and understanding the differences between different types of tests is key to making appropriate testing choices.

Consejos del médico sobre la vacuna de la COVID-19

Updated: March 06, 2021 - 2:31 am

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(StatePoint) Más de 500,000 estadounidenses han fallecido de COVID-19 y ha habido más de 28 millones de casos en todo el país. Los médicos dicen que es fundamental que los estadounidenses se vacunen cuando sea su turno y que continúen tomando precauciones contra la infección.

The Question Every Small Business Owner Needs to Ask

Updated: March 05, 2021 - 2:30 am

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(BPT) - Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been in the small business game awhile, right now, you’re likely filled with questions. Like, “Is this the right time to turn my passion into a business?” Or, “How am I going to survive if the economy doesn’t bounce back?” Without a doubt, both are important questions, regardless of the pandemic.

Agricultural legacies: 4 tips for succession planning

Updated: March 06, 2021 - 2:31 am

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(BPT) - Kory Hagen, who runs a 1,000-acre corn farm in Iowa, had to take over the family business in his early 20s when his father suffered a stroke. Unexpected tragedies, like Hagen’s, can be challenging but proper planning can ease the burden of passing down a business from one generation to the next.

How One Woman Fought Treatment-Resistant Depression

Updated: March 06, 2021 - 2:31 am

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(BPT) - For years before her diagnosis, Nicole thought her daily routine was normal. Habits like sleeping for 18 hours a day, missing school and struggling to maintain friendships just seemed like hallmarks of an “angsty” personality, as many in her life had labeled her. “It wasn’t until my mom became worried about me and started taking me to doctors and psychiatrists that I began to realize I wasn’t actually totally fine,” she said.

More than 9 in 10 infants have Newborn Gut Deficiency

Updated: March 06, 2021 - 2:31 am

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(BPT) - Nothing is more important than the health and happiness of your baby, and when something is wrong, it's natural to be concerned. From short-term conditions like diaper rash, colic, eczema, and sleep issues, to more long-term conditions such as allergies and Type 1 diabetes, you may be surprised that many common baby problems may be connected to your baby's gut microbiome.

On-Trend Kitchen and Bath Upgrades

Updated: March 05, 2021 - 2:30 am

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(Family Features) Kitchens and bathrooms remain among the top picks for homeowners looking to upgrade because their functional contributions to the household can’t be overstated and they typically provide high return on investment.

Productive Paint Projects

Updated: March 05, 2021 - 2:30 am

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(Family Features) With many homeowners seeking to renovate or reshape the look of their homes, one common project stands above many others: painting.

How to Raise a Healthy Eater at Every Stage of Childhood

Updated: March 05, 2021 - 2:30 am

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(Family Features) Daily food choices can have a profound impact on overall health and well-being. Not only do healthy dietary patterns help maintain good health, they also reduce the risk of chronic diseases throughout all stages of life.

How to Advocate for Climate Change

Updated: March 05, 2021 - 2:30 am

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Empower yourself to help save the planet

My Heart Can't Wait: Understanding Racial Disparities in AFib

Updated: March 05, 2021 - 2:30 am

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(Family Features) The facts are troubling: Black Americans are more likely to have a number of serious illnesses, including diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease. And, members of the Black community are 30% more likely to die from heart disease and twice as likely to have a stroke compared to other ethnic and racial groups.

6 Things to Know About GMOs

Updated: March 05, 2021 - 2:30 am

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(Family Features) You may have heard of “GMO” foods before, but what you may not know is the science and purpose behind them.

Proactive Health Tips to Help Navigate Year 2 of the Pandemic

Updated: March 05, 2021 - 2:30 am

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(Family Features) After months of unfamiliar restrictions and guidelines, pandemic fatigue is affecting how some Americans protect their health. However, experts warn that diligence is still extremely important because new mutations and variants of the virus that causes COVID-19 are being discovered. The typical cold and flu season also brings added threats to people’s health and wellness.

How to Plan for a Future Vacation

Updated: March 05, 2021 - 2:30 am

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(Family Features) After a long year stuck at home, many people are dreaming about when they can travel once again. While counting down the days may feel like torture, planning and booking a vacation for later this year can give you something to look forward to.

Build Simple Breakfasts to Fuel Your Family

Updated: March 05, 2021 - 2:30 am

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5 tips to start your day with nutritious noshes

Support Immune Systems with Hearty, Wholesome Dishes

Updated: March 05, 2021 - 2:30 am

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(Family Features) If feeding your family wholesome meals is a daily goal, keep in mind you can serve up tasty foods that also feed your immune system by including ingredients like mushrooms. With their earthy flavor, mushrooms – like many other fruits and vegetables – can also play a positive role in supporting a healthy immune system.

Lucky Shamrock Cookies

Updated: March 05, 2021 - 2:30 am

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(Culinary.net) It’s your lucky day because you don’t have to search for the pot of gold under the rainbow for this winning recipe. Throw out the old Irish classics and sweeten things up this year with some mint chocolate chip fun.

Kitchen Staples Helpful for Heart Health

Updated: March 05, 2021 - 2:30 am

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(Family Features) Taking care of your heart health requires a commitment to the right routines and smart decisions, such as adopting a heart healthy diet. Foods you might already have in your kitchen can offer powerful vitamins, minerals and beneficial plant compounds that may help contribute to heart health.

A Straightforward Weekend Breakfast

Updated: March 05, 2021 - 2:30 am

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(Culinary.net) There are no alarms set and you are cuddled up in bed after a good night’s sleep. It’s late morning and there is nowhere to go, no rushing around to do. No school bus, no work to be done, just relaxing at home with loved ones. However, breakfast is calling your name.

Better-for-You Family Breakfasts

Updated: March 05, 2021 - 2:30 am

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(Family Features) Making sure your family members get a nutritious start to the day is an important job, and by focusing on a few wholesome ingredients, such as real milk, simple and healthful dishes can quickly become family favorites.

Give Spring Salads a Fresh Spin

Updated: March 05, 2021 - 2:30 am

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(Family Features) With spring and warmer weather comes salad season, offering a perfect canvas for creating refreshing meals and appetizers centered around tasty greens, juicy tomatoes and crave-worthy dressings. Give your salads an update by avoiding the same tired mixes and instead create tasty meals fit for the season.

Lucky Mint Brownie Perfection

Updated: March 05, 2021 - 2:30 am

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(Culinary.net) How lucky you must be to come across this recipe just in time for St. Patrick’s Day. This one is a twisted combination of mint and sweet chocolate that’s sure to have almost anyone’s taste buds screaming “yum.” This dessert might just be the pot of gold at the end of your rainbow this year.

Smart Clicks: How to shop online like a pro

Updated: March 05, 2021 - 2:30 am

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How to shop online like a pro

Clever Storage Ideas for Small Spaces

Updated: March 05, 2021 - 2:30 am

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(Family Features) No matter how cramped and cluttered your living space may be, you can almost always find a spot or two for extra storage. It’s often just a matter of getting creative and utilizing a few clever solutions.

Simple Self-Care Tips You'll Love

Updated: March 05, 2021 - 2:30 am

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(Family Features) When easing into a new year, many experts encourage more self-care. From paying more attention to your mental health to pampering yourself from head to toe, now is the perfect time to start showing yourself a little extra love.

5 Tips for Organizing Your Home Office

Updated: March 05, 2021 - 2:30 am

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(Family Features) When temperatures creep up again, it signals time for an annual tradition: spring cleaning. While big projects like windows are hard to overlook, don’t forget smaller areas that need attention, too, such as your home office.

Plan an Angler's Adventure Like a Pro

Updated: March 06, 2021 - 2:31 am

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(Family Features) Fishing is a treasured pastime for Americans from coast to coast, but the experience can be as individual as the person reeling them in. A successful angling excursion begins with thoughtful planning and all the right gear.

Expert Tips for Welcoming a Kitten

Updated: March 06, 2021 - 2:31 am

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(Family Features) Fostering kittens and cats has risen in popularity during these unprecedented times, and many pet lovers are becoming fosters to help overcrowded animal shelters. Fostering a kitten can be a fun and exciting time, but it may also come with a learning curve.

Tuesday 03/02/2021

Si es dueño de una empresa, sólo le quedan días para solicitar un Préstamo de Protección de Pago

Updated: March 04, 2021 - 2:30 am

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(BPT) - Por Jennifer Roberts, Directora Ejecutiva de Chase Business Banking; y Sean 'Diddy' Combs, fundador de Our Fair Share, empresario y magnate de los medios de comunicación

From amore to l’amour: Discover your language of love

Updated: March 06, 2021 - 2:31 am

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(BPT) - No topic gets the heart pumping like love. And despite plenty of advice from experts, not everyone shows affection in the same way. Why not try to communicate with your paramour like you never have before? Instead of saying “I love you,” say “je t’aime” or “ich liebe dich” instead — show your special someone that you love them in another language!

If you own a business, you’ve only got days left to apply for a Paycheck Protection loan

Updated: March 06, 2021 - 2:31 am

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(BPT) - by Jennifer Roberts, CEO, Chase Business Banking and Sean 'Diddy’ Combs, Founder, Our Fair Share, entrepreneur and media mogul

Top 3 Easy Weight Loss Tips to Keep Your Resolutions on Track

Updated: March 06, 2021 - 2:31 am

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(BPT) - Roughly 48 percent of people made a New Year’s resolution to lose weight. However, the high hopes of weight loss tend to dwindle after January. How to keep high hopes going? Simplicity — the key for those looking to stick to their healthy habits all year long. Dr. Mike Roussell, PhD, nutrition advisor to Men’s Health, shares his top three weight loss tips to carry healthy resolutions through 2021 and beyond.

Brighten and boost your outdoor space with ease by planting petunias and pansies

Updated: March 06, 2021 - 2:31 am

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Top 5 paycheck-stretching hacks for 2021

Updated: March 06, 2021 - 2:31 am

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(BPT) - Feel like your paycheck is gone before your next payday? You're not alone. A 2020 survey, “Getting Paid in America,” revealed that 2 out of 3 Americans are living paycheck to paycheck.

Veggie-full foods for picky eaters

Updated: March 06, 2021 - 2:31 am

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(BPT) - It seems like every family has at least one — a child who is somewhat selective about what they're willing to eat. As a parent, you may despair about making sure your children are getting enough healthy vegetables in their daily diet. But don’t give up just yet. It is possible to use vegetables in creative ways that even your most critical eater will find hard to resist.

3 ways to help your loved one age in place

Updated: March 06, 2021 - 2:31 am

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(BPT) - In what seemed like an instant, the COVID-19 pandemic turned the world upside down. In addition to completely changing the way we work, shop and interact with others — just to name a few — it’s also forcing seniors to rethink their living arrangements and plans for the future, and changing the way we care for our elderly parents.

Exploring the patient-caregiver relationship: The story of a family's journey navigating a cancer diagnosis

Updated: March 06, 2021 - 2:31 am

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(BPT) - When faced with a cancer diagnosis, life often changes drastically, with each person experiencing the impact differently. One change that can cause great uncertainty is an unexpected shift in relationships, especially with family or those closest to the patient. For some, the established family dynamic can quickly shift into a relationship of patient and caregiver.

5 steps to help stop the rise in deaths from heart attack and stroke

Updated: March 06, 2021 - 2:31 am

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(BPT) - Permission granted by ShantaQuilette Carter-Williams.

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