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TV tip-overs a hazard for young children

1/25/2013

(BPT) - Many homes have new TVs decorating the living room, bedroom, den and even the kitchen. These TVs often feature the latest wide, flat screens, which give viewers great definition and clarity. But while they provide a beautiful viewing experience, flat screen TVs are top-heavy on a narrow base, and they can easily be pulled off an entertainment center or other piece of furniture.

Many families might be surprised to know that every three weeks a child dies from a television tipping over. And nearly 13,000 more children are injured in the U.S. each year. Alarmingly, over the last 10 years there has been a 31 percent increase in TV tip-over-related injuries.

A recent report by Safe Kids Worldwide and SANUS revealed that young children are at greatest risk of TV tip-overs. The study, A Report to the Nation on Home Safety: The Dangers of TV Tip-Overs, includes data from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and new findings from Safe Kids Worldwide primary research.

The research shows that seven out of 10 children injured by TV tip-overs are 5 years old or younger. Sadly, this age group also accounts for nine out of 10 serious injuries requiring hospitalization.

“Every 45 minutes, or less than the length of a Sesame Street episode, a child visits the emergency room because of a TV tipping over,” says Kate Carr, president and CEO of Safe Kids Worldwide. “Dramas and tragedies should be on TV, not caused by them.”

It’s not just the newer flat screens that may cause a trip to the emergency room. Large and heavy old-style cathode ray tube (CRT) TVs placed on dressers or high furniture can also tip over if children climb the drawers to reach a remote control, a piece of candy, a video game, or anything else that attracts their attention.

According to the research, three out of four parents reported they don’t secure their TV to the wall, either because they are not aware that securing a TV is an important safety measure, or they have concerns about damaging the wall or installing the TV incorrectly.

What can parents do to ensure that their children stay safe?

* Check your TV. Assess the stability of the TVs in your home. Remember, a curious, determined child can topple a TV. Children playing with friends or pets could knock a TV over, while other kids might be tempted to climb up to reach items placed on or near a TV, such as remote controls or candy.

* Secure your TV. Securing your TV to the wall is a safe solution. Much like child-proofing with a toddler gate or electrical socket cover, TV mounts and furniture straps are necessary precautions for keeping your family safe.

“You wouldn’t think to bring a baby home from the hospital without a car seat, or have your child ride a bike without a helmet,” says Carr. “Mounting your TV will protect your TV, and most important, your child.”

To learn more, visit www.safekids.org.

Diabetic nerve pain is different than a muscle ache or sprained ankle

2/1/2013

(BPT) - The prevalence of diabetes continues to increase significantly, and is expected to affect 53.1 million Americans by 2025, an increase of 64 percent from 2010. One of the most common complications of diabetes is diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN), a form of nerve damage. More than one in five people with diabetes experiences painful DPN, also known as diabetic nerve pain, as a direct result of this nerve damage. But despite its prevalence, there are many people who go untreated and do not realize the pain they are feeling is related to their diabetes.

Dorothy is one of the millions of Americans who has diabetic nerve pain. Dorothy was a nurse in the obstetrics and gynecology department of her local hospital for more than 30 years, but her diabetic nerve pain made it difficult for her to continue working with patients. “I had so much pain that I had to get off my feet and moved into a desk role instead of regularly seeing patients, which was a tough sacrifice to make,” she says. “Driving also became difficult for me since the diabetic nerve pain made my feet numb and I couldn’t feel the accelerator. Now, I have hand controls in my car, which enables me to drive and have some independence.”

Diabetic nerve pain can include the following common symptoms: burning or shooting pain, pins and needles, stabbing or jabbing pain, painful tingling, numbness or insensitivity to pain or temperature, and extreme sensitivity to touch, even light touch. These symptoms may go unmentioned during a doctor visit since many people are unaware of the connection of this pain to their diabetes.

For most people like Dorothy, diabetic nerve pain affects the feet, and is sometimes referred to as a sock pattern, as symptoms may be felt at the tips of the toes and then move along through the feet. It can also progress to other extremities, including people’s fingers and hands. “At first, my feet just felt numb. I had a burning and tingling sensation that progressed to a horrible, stabbing pain. It got so bad I felt like I was walking on glass and I couldn't even stand to have sheets over my feet at night,” Dorothy says.

Even as someone who worked in the medical profession for so many years, Dorothy did not realize that the pain she was feeling was different from other types of pain, such as a muscle ache or sprained ankle. She assumed her pain was a result of her working on her feet on a daily basis for so many years. It wasn’t until eight years later, after cycling through a number of doctors, that Dorothy received the correct diagnosis of diabetic nerve pain. “After talking to my doctor, I found a treatment that’s helped me manage my diabetic nerve pain,” says Dorothy.

The pain Dorothy felt may be similar to the experiences of many other Americans who also have diabetic nerve pain. According to results from an online survey of people living with Type I and II diabetes who experienced symptoms of diabetic nerve pain and characterized their pain as seven or higher on a scale of zero to 10, their pain is frequent and intense. Of those, 67 percent reported experiencing symptoms most or all of the time and nearly half said their symptoms were always painful.

Nerve damage due to diabetes is not reversible, but it is important for people to know there are management plans available for diabetic nerve pain. If you think you might have diabetic nerve pain, now’s the time to schedule an appointment with your doctor. Make sure your doctor knows that your pain is the reason for your visit. For more information about diabetic nerve pain, visit www.DiabetesPainHelp.com.

Play day: How time-pressed families can find more time for fun

4/18/2013

(BPT) - It waits for no one, flies by and can’t be bottled, but it’s the one thing everyone would like more of: time. In today’s busy, hectic society it’s harder for families to find time together for fun, yet spending quality time together is key to the emotional health of the family unit and of individual family members.

The average American spends nearly eight hours a weekday working and more than two hours on housework, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics American Time Use Survey. Add in the hours needed for sleeping and eating, and finding time for fun can take a backseat to other considerations.

Here are some ideas for how you and your family can take back time from your busy day and spend it with each other:

* Improve chore efficiencies – Housework is a necessity, but you don’t have to allow it to take up a lot of time. Working as a team and sharing duties is one way to ensure cleaning gets done quickly. Another smart time-saving technique is to streamline housework with the right tools. For example, the BISSELL CleanView Vacuum with OnePass Technology helps you spend less time vacuuming and more time enjoying a clean house. Powerful suction and an innovative brush design help pick up dirt on the first pass, meaning you spend less time going over the same spot of carpet. Learn more at www.bissell.com.

* Ease off on the electronics – The average American watches 34 hours of TV per week, according to one Nielsen report. Use of mobile devices is also increasing, and many families may find they spend more time with some kind of screen than they do with each other during the day. Reducing your family’s screen time could open up hours to enjoy doing things together. Consider family-friendly policies when it comes to use of electronics, such as no mobile devices at the dinner table, no TV with breakfast and no texting the family member in the next room.

* Meet over meals – Sitting down as a family for dinner is a great goal, but not easy for everyone. Shoot for one or two nights a week when you do this, rather than setting a possibly unachievable – and frustrating – goal of every night. Enhance the time spent preparing meals by involving kids in meal prep. This teaches children life skills such as math and measuring, meal-planning and nutrition. It also gives parents the opportunity to share more time with children as they prepare the family meal together.

* Schedule down – Take a look at your family’s schedule. Busy, isn’t it? Now look again. Are you all doing too much? Are you doing things that don’t really bring you individual enjoyment, let alone family fun? As a family, discuss what’s important in your schedules and what you can live without. Allow each family member reasonable time to pursue individual activities, but also eliminate extraneous ones. Reassign that time to family pursuits.

Spending time together as a family provides numerous benefits – from a greater sense of stability for children to improved mental health for adults. With some creativity and the right tools, it’s possible to find more time to spend together with the people who are most important to you.

Preserving our planet: How to celebrate the environment every day

3/27/2013

(BPT) - Greenhouse gases are at an all-time high. Although some gases are naturally present in the atmosphere, such as water vapor, ozone, methane, carbon dioxide and nitrous oxide, human activities have created a new set of greenhouse gases (GHG) that are negatively affecting the ozone layer. GHGs are making it easier for the sun’s harmful UV rays to pass through, which has resulted in global warming.

The United States is among the world’s worst offenders when it comes to GHG emissions per capita, according to the United Nations Statistics Division. In 2008, the U.S. emitted 22.22 GHG per capita, which was a 13.3 percent increase from 1990.

One thing Americans can do to change is to support environmentally friendly mandates and legislation that are specifically targeted at large businesses and manufactures, since they tend to be the largest producers of GHG. Some companies are already striving to reduce their environmental footprint.

For example, The American Trucking Association (ATA) has a sustainability initiative called “Trucks Deliver a Cleaner Tomorrow,” that focuses on reducing fuel consumption and finding innovative ways to reduce carbon monoxide emissions. The organization’s goal is to reduce fuel consumption by 86 billion gallons and carbon monoxide emissions by 900 million tons for all vehicles by 2018, according to Bill Graves, ATA’s CEO and president.

Other companies like ECORE, a recycled flooring manufacturer, are producing products in an environmentally friendly way. “We are committed to operating our business and facilities in a manner that uses resources wisely,” says Arthur Dodge III, ECORE chairman and CEO. “We have developed energy-efficient manufacturing processes that use minimal water and little or no heat, and we reuse our scrap to minimize waste.”

ECORE’s state-of-the-art equipment and manufacturing processes also improve the quality of its products and increase energy efficiency. By incorporating these proprietary methods, ECORE uses 40 percent less energy than standard industry procedures. The amount of natural gas conserved each year could service 120 average American homes.

The second thing Americans businesses can do to be more eco-friendly is to strive to implement their own green practices, such as recycling paper and using energy efficient light bulbs. The U.S. Small Business Administration has even developed a Small Business Guide to Energy Efficiency that offers tips, advice, and resources on how to help companies do this.

The third thing Americans can do to make the earth a better place is to be more conscious of their own impact on the environment. There are many simple things people can do every day in order to be conscientious consumers, according to Green America, a non-profit organization founded in 1982 to harness economic power to create a socially just and environmentally sustainable society. Aside from buying green products and recycling, Green America offers easy, sustainable tips, such as how to make nontoxic cleaners to air drying your clothes and how to choose energy efficient appliances over conventional models. “Going green” doesn’t have to be a daunting task, and simple changes can have a positive impact.

To learn more about ECORE and its mission to create solutions that are both environmentally friendly and sustainable, visit www.ecoreintl.com.

Tips and tools to prepare for power outages

4/17/2013

(BPT) - Storms have been packing big punches in recent years. While the debate about the cause might rage on, so do the natural elements that wreak havoc on private homes and public infrastructure. As has been seen in recent years, the aging of the American power grid has resulted in extended power outages – and that increasingly seems that this will be the new norm. However, going without power for long periods of time is non-negotiable for many Americans.

Waiting out a power failure is only an option for so long – and for many people, it’s not an option at all. When power goes out, preparedness goes a long way. As a new season of storms looms on the horizon, consider these tips to keep your household both safe and functional, whatever the weather.

* Generate your own power. A portable generator can provide safety and comfort in both long- and shorter-term power outages. As an alternative energy source, it gives you the option to keep your household running far more smoothly than it would with no power at all. Models like the Powerhorse Portable Generator from Northern Tool + Equipment will power your refrigerator, fans, space heaters, room air conditioners, lights, TVs and more during an outage, with surprisingly quiet and easy operation.

* Invert for an alternative power source. Inverters are another handy, portable option for added power. They convert power from sources like batteries into AC current, which can be used to power a wide array of necessities, from medical devices to phone chargers and beyond. The NPower Portable Digital Inverter features high surge capacity, overload and high-temperature shutdown, and even a USB port.

* Be charged up. If you plan on using an inverter, be sure to keep batteries charged during stormy seasons. Having battery chargers on hand will help you be prepared to get through the aftermath of a power-disrupting storm.

* Keep your home supplied. A stock of candles, batteries, flashlights, first aid supplies, prescription medicines and other helpful items like duct tape and a digital thermometer will serve you well in a short-term outage, but will also be essential if it lasts longer.

* Remember food and water safety. Because tap water might become unsafe to drink, a stock of bottled water is a critical supply. If power is out for more than two hours, it’s time to start thinking about food safety. Remember that meat, poultry, fish, and eggs need to be refrigerated at or below 40 F, and that frozen food has to be kept at or below 0 F to remain safe to eat, according to the USDA.

When storms strike, it can result in chaos, no matter where you live. By taking steps to prepare ahead of time, you’ll be able to cope with power outages and get life back to normal sooner than you might have expected. For more ideas and information, visit the Centers for Disease Control Emergency Preparedness page and www.northerntool.com.

Tips for a bigger tax refund

2/1/2013

(BPT) - If you typically dread income tax time, remember this: Three out of four taxpayers receive a federal refund, and the average direct-deposited refund last year was $2,923.

You have almost as many tax savings opportunities as last year, thanks to the fiscal cliff-averting tax changes passed in early January. In addition to extending the lower Bush-era income tax rates for nearly all taxpayers, the American Tax Relief Act made permanent or extended dozens of tax breaks.

"This year’s tax law changes included thousands of dollars in tax benefits for working families, college students and homeowners in particular," says Jessi Dolmage, TaxACT spokesperson.

When you’re ready to file your 2012 federal tax return, due April 15, 2013, watch for these key tax benefits:

Families

* The child tax credit is worth up to $1,000 per eligible child, and is refundable for taxpayers with an earned income of more than $3,000.

* Parents who work or attend school and pay for child care may qualify for the child and dependent care credit. The maximum amount is $3,000 per qualifying dependent or $6,000 for two or more qualifying dependents under the age of 13.

* The earned income credit is for working taxpayers with low to moderate income. The refundable credit amount is based on filing status, number of qualifying children and income level. Families with three or more qualifying children could qualify for up to $5,891.

* The refundability of the adoption credit has expired, but the credit is still available and worth up to $12,650 in qualified expenses for 2012.

College and education

* You could deduct up to $4,000 for tuition and fees paid in 2012.

* Paying off student loans? You may be able to deduct up to $2,500 in interest paid during 2012.

* The American Opportunity Credit is worth up to $2,500 per student for post-secondary tuition, fees and course materials.

* Contributing to a Coverdell Education Savings Account? You can exempt a maximum of $2,000 per student in annual contributions.

Homeowners

* If itemizing your deductions, you may be able deduct mortgage insurance premiums paid during 2012.

* The nonbusiness energy property credit for qualified energy-efficient home improvements (insulation, exterior windows and doors, central air conditioners, water heaters and other improvements) was extended for 2012 and 2013. If you've claimed this credit on previous year tax returns after 2005, you must subtract the collective amount from the $500 available for 2012.

Employees

* Grade K-12 educators can deduct $250 in out-of-pocket expenses for classroom supplies.

* You may be able to exempt employer-provided mass transit and parking benefits from your gross income.

* If you itemize and have paid for work-related education, there’s a deduction for your costs paid minus any employer reimbursed amount.

Hundreds more tax benefits are up for grabs on this year’s federal returns due April 15.

When you’re ready to do your taxes, use these tips to make tax time easier and faster.

1. Gather all your tax forms (W-2, 1099, 1098, etc.), receipts and a copy of last year’s return first. Use TaxACT's free return checklist at www.taxact.com/checklist.

2. Don’t spend too much on tax preparation. Online and downloadable software has all the guidance, forms and tools the vast majority of taxpayers need to do their own taxes. Some of the solutions are even free. “All taxpayers can file their federal tax returns free with TaxACT Free Federal Edition,” says Dolmage. "TaxACT includes all e-fileable forms for simple and complex tax returns, and there’s instant and personalized help available every step of the way."

3. According to the IRS, more than nine out of 10 refunds were issued in fewer than 21 days last year. You should expect the same this year. For the fastest possible refund, e-file and choose direct deposit. You can track your federal refund with “Where’s My Refund” at www.irs.gov.

4. File your return by the deadline. If you need an automatic six-month extension, e-file Form 4868 and pay any taxes owed by the April 15 deadline to avoid late-filing penalties and interest fees. Finally, don’t procrastinate. Rushing can lead to costly errors.

For more information about tax deductions and credits available on 2012 tax returns, visit www.irs.gov and www.taxact.com/taxinfo. Visit www.taxact.com to file your IRS taxes free with TaxACT Free Federal Edition.

Boomers: Your credit profiles matter more now than ever

4/9/2013

(BPT) - Maintaining a good credit profile is important at all stages of life, even for baby boomers who may have paid off their mortgages and don’t anticipate the need for more big-ticket loans. But it’s important to remember credit scores are used for more than just borrowing money, and you never know when an opportunity or emergency might pop up where credit is needed.

To be sure, maintaining good credit can benefit everyone from vacation home shoppers to those seeking college tuition loans, and it can help you acquire financing in the event that you’d rather use credit than cash.

What can baby boomers do to maintain good credit scores or improve lower scores?

According to Barrett Burns, president and CEO of VantageScore Solutions, a credit score model developer, it’s a good idea to first check that you even have credit history.

“It’s actually quite common to have little or no credit history, especially if there’s a primary person who handles family financial decisions,” says Burns. “This can leave the other spouse without any credit history. Adding the spouse’s name to the utility bills, mortgage payments and credit card accounts can help them build credit history, which results in a credit score.”

Once a credit history is established, keep these tips in mind:

* Keep credit accounts active. As children leave the household and retirement looms on the horizon, many baby boomers seek to simplify their finances. What you might not realize is that closing old credit accounts with a positive credit history could negatively affect your credit score, especially if this process is done all at once. Keep the older accounts open, and use them for small purchases.

* Encourage financial independence. It’s a common trend for the baby boomer generation to assist their children and grandchildren financially, even helping purchase large-ticket items like tuition, homes and vehicles. Co-signing for a loan affects these generous baby boomers’ credit accounts as well as their childrens’, and the behavior of either can affect the credit scores of both. Before co-signing, consider the length of the loan’s terms and have confidence that payment obligations will always be met.

* Know how to protect your score, even in disasters. Natural disasters can happen at any time, and in any location. Baby boomers who are affected by a natural disaster can ask lenders to flag their accounts while they get their lives sorted out after the disaster. When lenders flag an account in this manner, the account is no longer used when your credit score is calculated. This can have both positive and negative effects. If you flag an account that has always been paid on time and managed wisely, then that account is likely normally having a positive impact to your score. When it’s flagged for a natural disaster then you lose that positive impact, and potentially risk lowering your credit score while it remains flagged. On the other hand, if the account has blemishes, those negative elements will be ignored while the account is flagged, temporarily boosting your score. Unlike other credit scoring models, the VantageScore model will include the flagged accounts if doing so will have a positive influence on the consumer’s score. This way a consumer can continue to benefit from the positive impact that account might provide for them.

* Review your credit files and your score. By checking to make sure your credit files are accurate and knowing your credit scores, you can make changes to your credit habits, improve your scores, or continue down the path of being a good credit manager. Every boomer should get a copy of his or her credit report annually from each of the national credit reporting companies (Equifax, Experian and TransUnion) at www.annualcreditreport.com and review them to be sure they are complete and accurate.

To test your knowledge about credit scores and find ways to make improvements in your credit history, visit www.CreditScoreQuiz.org, which was created by VantageScore Solutions along with its partner, Consumer Federation of America. The online quiz is also available in Spanish at www.creditscorequiz.org/Espanol.

You never know when you may need to have your credit score pulled so it’s a good idea to continue practicing good credit management habits even if you own your home and your car outright and don’t anticipate applying for a loan at any time in the future. For more information about credit scores, visit www.yourVantageScore.com.

Trash vs. treasure: Expert tips when hunting for authentic garage sale finds

2/4/2013

(BPT) - Collecting relics isn’t a hobby just for Grandma and Grandpa any more. With the explosive popularity of TV shows centered around unearthing historic memorabilia and valuable pieces of Americana, searching for knickknacks and artifacts that make one-of-a-kind home decor is now a popular pastime for people of all ages. But how do you know the difference between what’s really treasure and what’s simply trash?

Larry Singleton, decor manager at Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc., is an expert when it comes to collecting historic relics. Singleton and his family have been collecting for more than 40 years, providing real American artifacts, memorabilia and signage to the more than 600 Cracker Barrel Old Country Store locations nationwide. He offers these insightful tips for the next time you’re on the hunt at a garage sale, flea market or thrift store:

1. Research and learn

Research and learn as much as you can before you shop. Watch TV shows, search on the Internet, visit local collector’s stores. Discovering what’s valuable and knowing what’s currently in-demand helps guide you in making that “big discovery.” It’s important to be willing to invest the time and never be afraid to ask questions.

2. Know your interests

If you have an interest in a particular type of item – such as vintage advertisements, folk art or children’s toys – familiarize yourself with what makes a piece authentic and what might indicate a reproduction. Plus when you have a personal interest in the item you’re seeking, the hunt becomes that much more fun.

3. Keep a smartphone close

A smartphone can be a treasure hunter’s best friend because you can conduct research quickly while on location. You can also research similar items to compare prices and see if the price is reasonable or inflated.

4. Know an expert

Keep an expert’s number on hand – every collector runs into questions and having a knowledgeable contact you can call or to whom you can send a picture is invaluable. Good resources include community associations, historical societies and friends or family members.

5. Network

One of the best ways to learn about items as well as where to find them is to talk to likeminded people. Treasure hunters and collectors love to share info on what they collect, buy and sell. Use this information (and camaraderie) to your advantage.

6. Know the story

While some items might have plenty of monetary value, other historic relics might be valuable simply because of the story they tell. Seeking historic artifacts and memorabilia provides a piece of decor that is more than just pretty; it’s a conversation piece when guests visit your home.

These expert tips are what Singleton follows to find the authentic memorabilia that decorates all Cracker Barrel locations. Each store has about 1,000 artifacts displayed, giving patrons a taste of American history. You, too, can create an interior space that pairs modern comfort with the panache that only unique historic relics can bring to a home’s decor. Start your own treasure hunt today.

Nursing home admissions avoided with simplified prescription packaging

1/30/2013

(BPT) - Numerous factors impact a senior’s ability to live independently, such as health and memory problems, mobility issues, and care coordination concerns. Often overlooked is the fact that one quarter of all nursing home admissions are the result of poor medication adherence.

Representing a loss of independence, being placed in a nursing home is a difficult milestone for both seniors and their families. It is also costly for seniors, their families and the health care system. The cost of a single room in a nursing home averages more than $200 per day and close to $200 billion for all Americans annually. About 62 percent of this cost in the United States is assumed by public, taxpayer-financed sources such as Medicaid and Medicare.

Almost half of seniors aged 65 and older take at least five different prescription drugs regularly, and one in four take between 10 and 19 pills each day according to data compiled by Kelton Research. In addition, more than half of seniors admit to not taking their medications as directed, and the adherence rate decreases as the number of daily medications prescribed increases.

“For seniors, taking one pill a day is manageable, however the complexity of taking multiple medications each with its own set of instructions, represents a real challenge that impacts their health and independence, says Ian Salditch, CEO of Medicine-On-Time. “However, the difficulties associated with taking multiple medications can effectively be addressed through customized prescription packaging.”

Salditch’s company developed Medicine-On-Time, where local pharmacists sort and organize medications into personalized pill cups labeled with the day, date and time to take them. Pharmacists provide all the pill cups to the patient organized into colorful calendar cards. It’s convenient, easy-to-use and, most importantly, proven effective to help people maintain independence and enjoy better health. A study released in the American Journal of Geriatric Pharmacotherapy found that seniors using Medicine-On-Time were 66 percent less likely to be admitted to a nursing home.

“It is an all too familiar process - adult children sorting their parents’ medications into pill boxes,” Salditch says. “Medicine-On-Time puts this process in the hands of licensed pharmacists and in doing so helps to ensure safety and accuracy, helping seniors maintain their independence and their quality of life.”Believe it or not, research conducted by Prince Market Research shows that seniors fear moving into a nursing home and losing their independence more than they fear death. The same study found that baby boomer children of seniors also fear for their parents, particularly their parents' emotional and physical well-being should they have to enter a nursing home.

Free trials and a tool to find the closest pharmacy offering the Medicine-On-Time service can be found at sortmymeds.com. Additional information on Medicine-On-Time can be found at www.Medicine-On-Time.com.

Five common credit report errors to watch out for

3/22/2013

(BPT) - Everyone makes money mistakes. Some are harmless – like writing last year’s date on checks or buying a big-screen TV the day before they go on sale. Others can be downright harmful, especially when they could mean the difference between getting a good interest rate and paying thousands more in interest over the life of a loan.

Although uncommon, errors can occur in your credit report. Ensuring everything is being reported accurately is key to unlocking the benefits of a positive credit history. A strong, accurate credit report will help you get the credit you want at the best rates available. The federal Fair Credit Reporting Act requires credit reporting agencies to notify lenders when you believe something is being reported incorrectly so that the information can be updated in the lender’s records as well as in your credit report.

In order to find errors, you should check your credit report regularly. Websites like freecreditscore.com can help. By enrolling in freecreditscore.com, subscribers receive unlimited access to their credit report and score, and the chance to get credit score alerts, identity protection alerts and fraud resolution support. A mobile app allows users to monitor their credit on the go, and monthly reports and statements can help consumers stay on top of their credit and be aware of changes quickly.

When you review your credit report, check for these five issues:

1. Identification that doesn’t belong to you – Your credit report lists information that is reported by lenders as belonging to you. Look for variations in name spelling, names you’ve never used, different street numbers or Social Security numbers. They may just reflect typos in a lender’s records. But, they also could be a sign of identity theft. In either case, once found, the credit reporting company can help you correct the information or assist with fraud recovery.

2. Accounts that don’t belong to you – Like variations in identity information, an unrecognized account may be a sign of fraud that requires immediate action. Know that accounts may be reported under a name you don’t recognize. For example, a retail account may be reported under the name of the lender that actually manages the account for the store. If so, it would be no cause for concern, but it’s best to monitor your report for extra peace of mind.

3. Incorrect payment status – Late payments hurt credit scores more than anything else. If an account is reported as late but you made the payment on time, you can contact the credit reporting agency to help get the information updated.

4. Public records that don’t belong to you – Your credit report can include civil judgments, tax liens and bankruptcy public records. If your credit shows a lien against you for a home you don’t own, or you have never declared bankruptcy but your report shows a court record or account as included in bankruptcy, your credit can be affected.

5. Inquiries you didn’t make – Your credit report contains a list of creditors who have asked for it. Each entry on the list is called an inquiry. If you see inquiries you don’t recognize, it could be a sign of fraud.

Your credit report likely won’t have any errors, but if it does, one thing is certain: they can adversely affect your credit score, thereby hindering your ability to secure credit at favorable terms. The best way to spot credit report errors is to stay on top of your credit and to review your report regularly.

Tips to navigate the real estate landscape and find the perfect home

5/1/2013

(BPT) - For most Americans your home is the biggest ticket item you will ever purchase. It’s no wonder that people can take months, and sometimes even years, to find the perfect home. When you walk into a house that’s on the market, many times the homeowner or real estate agent has “staged” it to ensure that you focus on the home’s greatest assets and overlook its flaws. Your job is to look past all that to see if this house is right for you.

Annette Lawrence, academic director of design programs, at The Art Institute of Ohio - Cincinnati, and Marissa Alexander, interior design program coordinator at The Art Institutes International Minnesota, offer these tips to navigate the real estate landscape.

Before you ever step out of your current home, make a list says Alexander. Your list should include one column for “must haves” and another for “wants.” “The wants you can compromise on,” advises Alexander. If you know what you are looking for and what you can’t live without, it’s a lot easier to find it.

Many people get caught up on the basic aesthetics of a home. “The paint is not a big deal,” says Lawrence. “Countertops are not a reason to choose a home or cross it off your list.” The shag carpeting can be ripped out and replaced. These are all easy fixes.

You should beware of the fixes that can break the bank. Will the roof need to be replaced? What about other big-ticket items like the heating and cooling system? Does the perimeter of the house slope toward it? That could mean flooding during a heavy rain. And what about the structural integrity of the foundation? A good inspector will spot the red flags and could keep you from making a costly mistake. That inspector will also check the chimney, the insulation in the attic and the gutters and spouts.

And there are things you can check on before you call in an inspector. “If you want to know whether a floor is warping, just take a ball and roll it across the room,” says Alexander. If it doesn’t roll straight across, it could signal issues with the foundation.

Figure out what kind of layout you want for your house. “Ask yourself what kind of floor plan you like,” says Lawrence. “Those are the kinds of things that are costly to change.” If the floor plan is right for you, the cosmetics will be a fairly easy and inexpensive fix.

While you may think that this home purchase will be one of many, you should consider the possibility that this could be your home for decades to come. That’s why Lawrence is a big proponent of finding a home that allows you to “age in place.” She suggests you find a home with a first floor master bedroom and laundry room. Also consider how many steps there are from the driveway into the home. Are the hallways and doorways wide enough for a wheelchair or a walker?

Even if you do not think you’ll need these accommodations, consider your home’s “visitability.” If you have elderly relatives or friends with disabilities, are they going to be able to come to your new home? “My grandmother was one of my most frequent guests,” explains Lawrence. “I had low lighting and had painted the walls dark colors. Consequently, she couldn’t see too well when visiting.”

Three tips to make your hospital stay safer

3/1/2013

(BPT) - Each year, millions of Americans seek hospital care to treat a wide range of medical problems – from accidental injuries to chronic or life-threatening illnesses. While the majority of patients have positive outcomes, it is imperative to remember patient safety should be a top priority for everyone.

In fact, the World Health Organization (WHO) notes patient safety is a serious global public health issue. Even in developed countries such as the United States, as many as one in 10 patients may be harmed while hospitalized. Injury rates are even higher in developing countries, making patient safety a high priority around the world.

You can take steps to help ensure your safety whether in the hospital for a planned or unexpected circumstance. Here are three things to keep in mind to make your hospital stay as safe as possible:

Reduce infection risks:

Hospital infections are a top concern, especially for surgical patients. According to WHO, hand hygiene is the single most important measure to reduce health-care-related infections. Patients should keep hand sanitizer at their bedside and use it often. Additionally, the National Patient Safety Foundation (NPSF) recommends:

* Reminding your care team about hand-washing before any direct interaction.

* Keeping an eye on intravenous catheters and wound dressings, and notifying your health care provider right away if something looks wrong.

* Taking charge of health problems such as diabetes, excess weight and smoking, which can increase infection risk in the hospital.

* Following doctors’ directions about breathing treatments to avoid lung infections.

Understand anesthesia:

Over the past century, anesthesiologists have advanced patient safety through innovative research, science and technology advancements. Whether in the operating room, procedure room, intensive care unit or pain clinic, anesthesiologists are committed to patient safety. Today, anesthesia-related fatalities only occur in less than one in every 200,000 procedures.

To help ensure the highest quality and safest care, anesthesiologists lead Anesthesia Care Teams to supervise non-physician providers during the administration of anesthesia to make critical life decisions when there are only seconds to make them. According to the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA), anesthesiologists have more than 10,000 hours of related medical training and education to diagnose, treat and respond to any medical complications that may occur.

In addition to making sure a physician supervises your anesthesia care, it is important to follow all pre-operative instructions from your doctors and get plenty of rest before surgery. Also, be sure your anesthesiologist is aware of your prior anesthesia history and any medications you take. For more information about anesthesia and preparing for surgery, please visit LifelinetoModernMedicine.com.

Be aware of setbacks:

While unpredictable progress in recovery is not unusual, it’s important to minimize the risk of avoidable setbacks such as falls and readmissions.

Tumbles are a major concern for the elderly, but even younger patients are at risk of falling in the hospital. NPSF often points to research indicating more than 500,000 falls occur in U.S. hospitals each year, causing 150,000 injuries. Muscle weakness, medication-related impairment and age can increase a patient’s risk of falling. Follow your physician’s directions and the hospital’s procedures for surer footing.

Before you leave the hospital, make sure you understand the doctor’s after-care instructions to reduce your risk of readmission. Bring any questions or suspicions of complications to follow-up appointments to help your physician assess your recovery.

Health care is incredibly intricate and complex, and while medical science has made great strides for patient safety, patients need to play an active role in their care. With diligent research and advocacy for their own health, patients’ collaboration with their care team can make them informed and, most importantly, safe.

Laser spine surgery helps seniors find relief from lumbar spinal stenosis

4/24/2013

(BPT) - Two recent clinical studies bring good news to the aging population. If you have lower back pain, burning pain or numbness in your legs you are probably one of the many people suffering with Lumbar Spinal Stenosis (LSS) – a condition affecting a vast majority of the over-60 age group – and this good news applies to you.

The condition is most often part of normal deterioration due to aging but can also be caused by osteoarthritis, bone spurs, bulging or herniated discs, or injury or trauma to the spine. It can be hereditary, too.

“It’s possible to have spinal stenosis while experiencing no symptoms at all, or the symptoms can appear slowly and then gradually worsen over time,” says Dr. Michael Perry, medical director of Laser Spine Institute.

The condition has been treated for years with invasive surgery which can be risky – especially for seniors – and not always successful.

The studies by Laser Spine Institute, published in the “Journal of Spine” in January 2013 and the “Journal of Orthopaedics” in March 2013, showed that minimally invasive surgeries are more successful than open back surgery at treating patients with LSS. The studies used real-life cases to prove that doing the procedure in an outpatient setting is a safe and effective option to treat even severe LSS conditions. The studies also found that minimally invasive surgery results in fewer risks, including lower complication rates, lesser rate of blood loss and a quicker recovery time.

What is spinal stenosis?

Spinal stenosis occurs in the spinal column, where the spinal cord, nerve roots and vertebrae are located. Over time, the spinal canal may become constricted or narrowed. This puts pressure on the spinal cord and spinal nerve roots, causing pain, numbness or weakness in the legs. The lumbar region is the lower part of the spine, and is the most common area where spinal stenosis happens.

Dr. Perry provides some guidance on how to maintain a healthier spine and possibly prevent the onset of conditions like spinal stenosis. Some of his recommendations include exercising and stretching regularly, maintaining a healthy weight, using proper posture and lifting techniques, as well as ensuring correct body postures are used while sleeping and driving. Additionally, adequate rest, anti-inflammatory drugs and physical therapy may ease your symptoms.

If you’ve tried all these and still have severe, limiting pain that is interfering with daily activities, it may be time to explore surgery.

Surgical options for spinal stenosis

In the past, a surgeon typically performed open back surgery, called a laminectomy (or decompression), which removes the bone, bone spurs and ligaments that are compressing the nerves. The doctor makes a single, large incision to access your spine.

According to the American Association of Orthopaedic Surgeons, elderly patients, those with multiple medical problems and others, have higher rates of complications from this type of surgery. There could be nerve injury, blood clots, return of symptoms and more. A several-day hospital stay is usually required.

Additionally, a 2010 study published by the American Medical Association found that these invasive surgeries resulted in a high rate of life-threatening complications, and patients were often re-hospitalized within 30 days.

A less invasive surgery is gaining popularity. Minimally invasive spine surgery using endoscopic techniques – sometimes as outpatient surgery – is becoming more common. In this procedure, small incisions are used and recovery is often quicker, with less injury to the surrounding soft tissues. Dr. Perry says that most surgeons and medical practices are moving toward these minimally invasive techniques because patients are requesting them.

“Patients are concerned about the more invasive surgery, both its risks and potential outcomes,” he says. “At Laser Spine Institute, we make smaller incisions, have a lower infection rate and a quicker recovery. Our surgical complications are generally very low compared to open back surgery. Our surgeons have been regularly performing these procedures for eight years and are very familiar with the technique.”

The surgeons at Laser Spine Institute are industry leaders in this type of procedure. Laser Spine Institute has regional surgical centers in Tampa, Fla., Scottsdale, Ariz., Philadelphia and Oklahoma City. For a free MRI review and information about Laser Spine Institute procedures, visit www.LaserSpineInstitute.com, or call toll free (866) 249-1627.

Insurance fraud: A $40 billion battle

3/5/2013

(BPT) - The last thing anyone wants is for his or her insurance rates to increase. Most policyholders would be surprised to know it’s the last thing their insurance company wants to happen, too. That's why most major carriers have a department of investigators dedicated to stopping one of the primary causes of rate hikes: insurance fraud. In fact, fraudulent insurance claims are the second most costly white-collar crime in America – to the tune of $40 billion annually.

“Each year the average U.S. family is hit with $400 to $700 in increased premiums due to phony insurance payouts,” says Dan Bales, national director of special investigations for Mercury Insurance, which established a Special Investigations Unit in 1978 to help fight insurance fraud. “The goal of the SIU is to limit these payments and catch the criminals responsible.

“Think of us as the CSI of the insurance industry. We square off against mobsters, organized crime, dirty lawyers and doctors, white-collar con artists and even the occasional celebrity to help keep down costs for our policyholders.”

Insurance fraud is a game of numbers. Insurance rates are calculated using statistics and mathematics to project risk. So, by lowering the probability for costly insurance scams, insurance companies have financial flexibility to offer customers low rates.

Making the SIU’s job tougher is the fact that the culprits behind these scams aren’t run-of-the-mill criminals. “Today’s scammers are technologically savvy and have access to sophisticated equipment,” says Bales, who’s been involved in more than 35,000 claims investigations during his 27-year career at Mercury. “They routinely produce, among other things, fake medical records, duplicate checks, and false identifications and business licenses. To maintain an advantage, our SIU is constantly working to stay ahead of the technological curve.

“I don’t want to give away any industry secrets, but on any given day, the average person is caught on camera 12 to 16 times. This allows us to pull footage or images from ATMs, intersection cams, private businesses, homes, cell phones and even social media to catch criminals in the act.”

One question Bales hears quite often is, how can consumers help fight fraud? “We have a saying: If you’re not looking for insurance fraud, you won’t find it. So, I always tell people to document suspicious activity and incidents. When it comes to cracking these cases, the devil is in the details.”

There are several common schemes of which consumers should be aware. Staged auto accidents, adding damage to vehicles after a loss and switching drivers on accident reports are a few of the most prevalent scams.

Bales says regardless of the insurance provider, when suspicious activity is observed, the witness should alert the SIU and law enforcement by calling 1-800-TEL-NICB or by texting the keyword “fraud” to TIP411.

Here are some of his other tips:

* If you’re involved in an auto accident, always call the police and document unusual circumstances or activities.

* Obtain detailed bills for collision repairs, home/property repairs and medical services.

* Never sign blank insurance claims forms.

* Watch for double-billing or unexplained charges for any service received as part of an insurance claim.

* Be aware that there are crime rings that specialize in “slip and fall” schemes, which involve fake injuries and false claims.

* Always gather as much information as possible at the scene of an accident.

Moving? Tips to make the most of your DIY move

5/21/2013

(BPT) - New jobs, first jobs, relationships and looking for a change in weather – these are just a few reasons people have for moving. Most families move during the warmer months, and many choose to move to warmer locations.

“Atlanta is still the top location to move to, and six other warm weather destinations help round out the top 10 moving destination list,” says Don Mikes, senior vice president of truck rental for Penske. “We’re seeing patterns in our 2012 consumer truck rentals of people moving south for more warmth and sunshine.”

Penske’s top 10 moving destinations for 2012 were:

1. Atlanta

2. Dallas/Fort Worth

3. Phoenix

4. Orlando, Fla.

5. Chicago

6. Houston

7. Denver

8. Seattle

9. Charlotte, N.C.

10. Sarasota, Fla.

If you're planning a move to any state this year, Penske, which has been renting out moving trucks to do-it-yourselfers for more than 40 years, offers some advice:

* For long-distance moves, a moving truck is a must. But even if you're just moving across town, renting a moving truck makes sense. Making multiple trips can be exhausting - not to mention the gas you'll use and the greenhouse gases your vehicle will emit on multiple trips. Reserve your truck at least two weeks in advance of moving day – Penske guarantees a truck for every reservation. A 12- or 16-foot truck works for moving a few large items or the contents of a small condo or apartment. For guidance on larger moves and which truck to choose, visit www.PenskeTruckRental.com.

* Pack in increments. Start early to avoid the stress of last-minute rushing. It's OK to leave a box open in case you need something you've packed inside it; it's much easier to tape a box shut on moving day than it is to pack at the last moment.

* Buy sturdy boxes in a variety of sizes, along with foam and bubble wrap to protect fragile items. You'll also need a good supply of packing tape and markers for sealing and labeling boxes.

* Make sure you have moving blankets and hand trucks on moving day to make the process easier.

* Purge before packing. It's much easier to throw away, donate, sell or give away items that you don't need than it is to pack them and move them. As a rule of thumb, if you haven't used something in the past 12 months – or it's still packed in a box from the last time you moved – you can probably get rid of it.

* Label boxes as you pack. First, list the room that the contents belong in, and, if necessary, a few details such as "glass," "fragile" or "dishes." As you load the truck, try to keep boxes from each room grouped together.

* Load the heaviest items onto the truck first to create a sturdy base, then start stacking on top.

* Moving trucks are taller, wider and heavier than the passenger vehicles you are used to driving. They require more distance to stop. Be extra careful driving your moving truck, especially after it's loaded. Be aware of low-hanging tree branches and building overhangs, and use caution when cornering. Park only in well-lit areas and keep the rear door padlocked and the passenger compartment doors locked.

Finally, create a travel bag for moving day and keep important paperwork, credit cards, identification, a change of clothes, beverages and snacks close at hand. You can find more moving tips at www.PenskeTruckRental.com.

Considering self-employment? Career fields with double-digit growth

1/30/2013

(BPT) - Americans were born to make lemonade. If you have any doubt about the resiliency of U.S. workers, consider the many reports that indicate millions of Americans are turning life’s lemon of layoffs into an opportunity to work for themselves. With unemployment rates still high, many people are looking to self-employment to create stable, rewarding careers for themselves.

Self-employment offers many advantages, including more flexible work schedules, less job uncertainty and the satisfaction of working for yourself. If you’re considering a career change to self-employment and want to start your own business, insurance may be the field for you. It’s one of four fields, including child care, accounting and financial planning, that the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts will see double-digit growth in the next few years.

Opportunities in the insurance industry for sales agents will grow 22 percent between now and 2020, according to the BLS’s Occupational Outlook Handbook. Agents help clients understand their insurance needs and choose policies that best fit those needs and protect the things that are most important: homes, automobiles, businesses and above all else, lives.

The insurance field offers quick entry, even for those with only a high school diploma, and profitability can be even more accessible for those who pursue professional training. Companies like Farmers Insurance, which is expanding into eastern states from its base in California, offer self-employment opportunities for those who wish to run their own agencies. Farmers provides training and can even assist with start-up financing at attractive terms. Along with all the benefits of self-employment, including a more flexible work schedule and the potential to work at home, agents who align themselves with an established company like Farmers can enjoy the benefit of working with a well-recognized brand.

While it may be difficult to predict what the country’s overall unemployment rate will be, there is still plenty of good news for career changers looking for fields that offer growth potential. Choosing a career in insurance, financial planning or another industry that anticipates double-digit growth in the next decade can help many career-changers achieve their dream of becoming successful entrepreneurs and help them make lemonade out of life’s lemons.

New generation of American workers seek to combine personal and professional interests

5/20/2013

(BPT) - As college students graduate and begin the job search, their career decisions won’t be driven by the same factors that drove their parents’ decisions. While baby boomers tended to focus on the vertical climb to find job happiness, today’s graduates and professionals want meaningful and challenging work that satisfies them personally.

Despite the turbulent economy, 68 percent of working Americans would be willing to take a salary cut to work in a job that allowed them to apply their personal interests to the workplace, a recent survey released by Philips North America found. Almost one quarter of workers would take a pay cut of 25 percent or more.

“Today’s professionals expect more from their careers than just a paycheck,” says Tanveer Naseer, a leadership coach who helps companies guide organizational growth and development. “They’re looking for challenge, impact and an employer who is committed to helping them achieve their goals.”

This new set of demands from employees is driving change in corporations throughout America. Philips, for example, which employs 116,000 people globally, is looking for more ways to help its employees apply their personal interests and ideas to their work.

“We’ve found that employees want a company that supports and rewards what matters to them personally,” says Dana Stocks, Philips North America Chief Human Resources Officer. “Recognizing our employees are people with real passions leads to better product innovation, ultimately improving people’s lives and the communities they live in.”

So how do graduates or professionals entering the job market find employers and roles that are a good fit and will deliver job satisfaction? Here are a few tips:

1. Look for a job that allows you to leverage personal interests in your work. Most Americans, regardless of their career stage, believe that applying personal interests in a career would make them happier. Naseer says people often find jobs that play to their strengths – but an employee’s strengths may not align with his interests. This disconnect can result in employees feeling overworked and underutilized as they’re building skills for which they have no passion.

2. Use your resume as a tool to reflect yourself as a person, not just a potential employee. Social resumes provide the opportunity for job seekers to express themselves beyond educational credentials and a laundry list of responsibilities they’ve taken on in the workplace. Your employer isn’t hiring the resume; they are hiring you as a person. Use your resume to help them feel connected to you as a person. Include assets such as video interviews on relevant topics, thought leadership presentations, or links to blogs and social media sites that you maintain.

3. Know yourself first, and submit your application second. Many job seekers apply to too many jobs without truly understanding their qualification levels or fit for each. Take the time to understand yourself, your story, the intersection of your personal and professional passions, and formulate a short list of jobs that align. By focusing on the quality versus the quantity of your applications, you have a better chance of making the “right” career choice vs. the “right now” career choice.

When job seekers find the right roles that allow them to pursue their individual aspirations within the context of their professional careers, it’s a win for both the individual and the organization.

Be at the Navy's Hub: operate state-of-the-art nuclear powered vessels

3/7/2013

(BPT) - Maintain equipment used to detect enemy planes and ships. Control steam generators. Operate nuclear propulsion plant machinery. These are just a few of the tasks Sailors aboard Navy aircraft carriers and submarines fulfill in both peace and wartime roles around the world. These Sailors are responsible for operating, controlling and maintaining state-of-the-art nuclear components that power the fleet; the core of the Navy’s ability to operate forward and maintain readiness.

Today’s Sailors continue to make history. They take on tremendous roles and responsibilities such as working to build the Gerald R. Ford, a new class of carriers expected to be delivered in 2015. Aircraft carriers are the centerpiece of the Navy, and the Gerald R. Ford class builds upon the branch’s legacy of aircraft carrier innovation stretching back to the first aircraft carrier, USS Langley (CV 1) and continuing to the present day. The introduction of jet aircraft, angled decks and nuclear power were all innovations that kept the fleet relevant for Cold War needs. Gerald R. Ford continues the aircraft carrier history of modernization and adaptability that will enable her to serve our country for decades to come. Sailors in the nuclear community are involved in maritime security, sea control, deterrence, humanitarian assistance, forward presence and power projection. Submarines and their crews provide attack, surveillance, research and nuclear deterrence roles.

Sailors interested in joining an elite group of professionals who design, build, operate, maintain and manage the Navy’s nuclear-powered ships and submarines can join the Nuclear Officers in the Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program. These officers oversee the nuclear reactors that power the Navy’s vessels, as well as the facilities that support the program’s ongoing training, operations and technology.

The Navy has four specialized Nuclear Officer career paths available for Sailors who are a graduate or student of an accredited college or university in the United States or in a U.S. territory pursuing a bachelor’s or master’s degree (in the preferred fields of mathematics, engineering, physics, chemistry or other technical areas). They must also have completed or be enrolled in a college curriculum that includes a minimum of one year each of calculus-based physics and mathematics through integral calculus. These career paths are:

* Submarine Officer – This position oversees the specialized personnel, departments and missions of Navy attack, ballistic missile and guided missile submarines – taking charge of all that goes into driving, powering, arming, operating and ultimately commanding these stealth vessels.

* Surface Warfare Officer – These specialists oversee the propulsion systems and personnel aboard multibillion dollar, megaton, nuclear-powered aircraft carriers – managing the operational intricacies of the most capable ships on earth.

* Naval Reactors Engineer – These technical experts are responsible for researching, designing and maintaining Naval nuclear reactors across the Navy Fleet – supporting all the activities involved with ongoing operations and personnel training.

* Naval Nuclear Power School Instructor – Be one of the select few who learn and then teach the fundamentals of nuclear propulsion – guiding Navy understudies through a comprehensive curriculum, encompassing everything from science to math, electrical engineering to reactor dynamics.

Other nuclear power careers are available for Sailors with a high school diploma or GED. These Nuclear Operations personnel operate, control and maintain the state-of-the-art components that power Navy aircraft carriers and submarines, doing anything from operating nuclear propulsion plant machinery to controlling auxiliary equipment that supports Naval reactors to maintaining the electronic equipment used to send and receive messages, detect enemy planes and ships and determine target distance.

Jobs available for nuclear-trained specialists include:

* Machinist’s Mate (MM) – These specialists work on the mechanical side of everything related to propulsion and power-generating systems.

* Electrician’s Mate (EM) – EM’s work on the electrical side of everything related to propulsion and power-generating systems.

* Electronics Technician (ET) – An ET works with the electronic equipment related to maintaining reactor safety and control.

Visit navy.com to learn more about Nuclear Operations career opportunities and the background required to serve.

Tips to select the right camp for your child

4/26/2013

(BPT) - Soccer camps, wilderness camps, chess camps, language camps – whatever interests your child, there’s a camp for him or her.

Whether you’re looking for a local day camp or an overnight experience far from home, the key to finding the right camp involves research. That means not only learning about all the options, but carefully screening camps to ensure your child will be safe and have a fun and memorable time.

Not all camps need to be licensed by a local or state government agency, nor do all seek certification through the American Camp Association. And with the wide variety of camps from which to choose, there is no standard set of regulations across the country, according to FindLaw.com, the nation’s leading website for free legal information.

"Because the commitment to quality and safety can vary dramatically from camp to camp, it's really important for parents to do their homework to make sure they're getting the best fit for their child and themselves," says Adam Orlow, a personal injury attorney with The Orlow Firm in New York.

If you’re looking for a camp to enhance your child’s skills, or simply to give him or her a little adventure, here are tips from FindLaw.com on what to consider when researching summer camps:

Get references – Ask the camp for two to three references of parents who live near you. Don’t hesitate to contact those parents to learn about their child’s experience at the camp. In addition, peruse online reviews.

Check the camp’s hiring procedures – Camps should readily share their protocol for staff background checks, which should include criminal background checks and personal references. In addition, make sure the camp offers its staff training on appropriate communication and discipline.

Visit the camp – If possible, visit the camp to inspect the facilities and equipment, review safety policies and meet the staff. For example, if the camp offers horseback riding, are campers wearing helmets? If a camp offers kayaking and canoeing, are life-vests stocked and well maintained?

Read all of the camp’s registration forms – Pay special attention to cancellation policies, disciplinary rules, and how staff handles cases of homesickness.

Ask about emergency procedures – Findings from an American Camp Association study indicate that few camps systematically review their health and injury records to make improvements toward preventing or reducing injuries and illnesses. With that in mind, ask the camp about policies and procedures for handling medical emergencies, especially if you’re sending your child to a sports camp.

Ask the camp about insurance – All camps should have insurance, and if you come across a camp that does not, you might want to consider other options.

Check the staff’s expertise – If a camp promotes itself as a source for your child to enhance his or her skills, carefully check the staff bios to make sure they have the proper training and background.

What are the camp’s policies toward visitors – How does the camp monitor visitors such as vendors and support staff? What does the camp do to secure its property throughout the day and night?

To learn more about everyday legal matters, visit FindLaw.com.

Save money and do a world of good with reusable containers

5/15/2013

(BPT) - Even as the country moves out of the great recession, many Americans are still in a money-saving mode – looking to conserve wherever possible.

Good news. There are simple ways to save money especially if you go back to the time-honored concept of BYO – “bringing your own” container of coffee, lunch or water as part of your daily routine. This can do a world of good not only for your pocketbook, but also for the environment, and even your health. Here are some tips to get you started:

* Bring your own coffee or tea

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, Americans throw away 25 billion foam cups each year. And 500 years from now, those cups will still be sitting in a landfill. Despite the convenience of foam cups, small changes such as bringing coffee or tea in a reusable container can have both an environmental and economic impact.

For example, Genuine Thermos(R) Brand makes a vacuum insulated commuter bottle that will keep a beverage hot for eight hours or cold for 12 hours. Not only is this great for a day at the office or running errands around town, it saves the cost of purchasing beverages day in and day out. If you still like an occasional custom-made coffee or chai latte, some retailers will fill your own bottle.

* Bring your own lunch

Many grownups still have fond memories of a school lunchbox featuring their favorite TV or movie character. Bringing your own lunch in an insulated lunch carrier is a good way to keep your favorite foods fresh and tasty, and a smart way to save money. According to a report in Time magazine, bringing your lunch to work can cut your weekly costs by 80 percent.

To keep foods fresh while on the go, insulated reusable containers are an ideal option. They come in all shapes and sizes to keep snacks or lunch foods hot or cold for hours, saving you the cost of going out and making it easier to stay away from unhealthy temptations.

* Keep yourself hydrated

As you get in the habit of bringing your own reusable portable container, don’t neglect the one thing every human needs for basic good health – water – to help you hydrate throughout the day. According to the Mayo Clinic, water makes up about 60 percent of your body weight. Lack of appropriate water intake can lead to dehydration, draining your energy and making you feel tired.

The Institute of Medicine determined that adequate water intake for men is roughly 104 ounces and is roughly 72 ounces for women. Instead of purchasing bottled water in containers that will also end up in landfills, bring plenty of your own water in a portable, reusable container. One easy option for quenching thirst while on the go is the 24 oz. Hydration Bottle with Meter that is made of BPA-free Eastman(TM) Tritan and has a rotating meter built into the lid to help keep track of your daily water consumption.

Embracing the bring-your-own mentality can make a world of difference economically and environmentally. So, take the first step to “bringing your own” on May 23, which is the inaugural National Fill Your Thermos Brand Bottle Day, and celebrate the doing-good and money-saving power of the reusable container.

Be a real life hero: Taking on the most impossible missions and doing whatever it takes to keep America safe

1/24/2013

(BPT) - When the Navy needs to complete seemingly impossible missions or track elusive targets, the job is often assigned to Naval Special Warfare (NSW) or Naval Special Operations (NSO) teams. These elite men and women work with dedication and intense courage in locations all over the world, and in every possible climate, to neutralize potential threats.

Although the young men and women interested in pursuing a career in the NSW/NSO community do not need to have a college degree to excel in these challenging environments, they do need to be specially trained to work closely and efficiently with other special forces to ensure the successful completion of missions around the globe. The training these individuals go through is truly life-altering: training can include advanced swimming and lifesaving techniques, diver and parachute training, maritime navigation and helicopter operations. Some of the careers individuals can excel in include:

* Aviation Rescue Swimmers (AIRR)

The motto of the Aviation Rescue Swimmer community is "So Others May Live." The responsibilities vary from rescue and recovery to surveillance and operational support for Sailors who serve as part of this top emergency response unit. AIRRs are typically attached to an aircraft for their tasks, which can include saving pilots of downed aircraft, coming to the aid of civilians during natural disasters, rappelling to reach survivors at a remote crash site, collaborating with other forces on joint rescue missions, jumping out of a helicopter to pluck crewmembers out of frigid waters and conducting surveillance in anti-submarine warfare and drug interdiction operations.

Intense training is required for these Sailors. This includes nearly two years of training in advanced swimming and lifesaving techniques, as well as training in water and land survival, flight safety, search and rescue, Naval aviation and more. The training is as true to life as possible because work environments can be different for every situation.

* Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technician (EOD)

EODs are brought in to deal with disposal of chemical, biological and nuclear weapons. They clear IEDs, parachute out of aircraft, dive beneath ships - protecting others by handling situations with steady hands and even steadier nerves. They also investigate and demolish underwater obstructions, prepare coastal regions for amphibious landings and provide intelligence about potential threats, both in the United States and abroad. This work has EODs located all around the world, and missions could be by air, land or sea.

Training involves 51 rigorous weeks, including various levels of EOD preparation, diver training and parachute training. Duties of EODs may include demolition of hazardous munitions, pyrotechnics and outdated explosives, locating and identifying underwater foreign and domestic ordinances, performing parachute and helicopter insertion operations in support of missions, supporting military and civilian law enforcement agencies, and executing underwater mine countermeasure operations to clear waterways in support of the Fleet.

* Special Warfare Combatant-Craft Crewman (SWCC)

Named the “Quiet Professionals,” SWCC provide critical mission support to Navy SEALs. They operate state-of-the-art, high-performance boats. They protect global waters from enemy combatants. This elite team carries out military actions that are beyond the capability of standard forces. These Sailors secure the freedom of global waters via the riverine and littoral environments by operating independently among small units or while integrated with other U.S. Special Operations forces or within U.S. Navy carrier and expeditionary strike groups.

SWCC perform direct action raids against enemy shipping and waterborne traffic, as well as provide rapid mobility in shallow water areas where larger ships cannot operate. They maintain ammunition, weapons, combat vehicles and other equipment associated with SWCC and other special operations missions.

Training for SWCC is as intense as all other NSW/NSO ratings, but Sailors interested in this opportunity may receive specialized training in areas including maritime navigation, radio communications, boat/propulsion systems engineering and parachute and helicopter operations.

The Navy is A Global Force for Good with many exciting and challenging career opportunities available. Visit navy.com to learn more about some of these opportunities, and the background required to serve.

Financial planning insights for the LGBT community

4/19/2013

(BPT) - Over the last decade, many companies have paid increasing attention to the buying power and consumer habits of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) market. But until recently, little attention has been focused on the financial experience of LGBT individuals.

The groundbreaking “LGBT Financial Experience 2012-2013 Research Study” by Prudential Financial takes an in-depth look at the financial challenges and concerns of LGBT Americans, and provides eye-opening insights for individuals seeking financial services that will address their own circumstances.

“This is an important baseline study that provides a snapshot of the financial lives and experience of LGBT Americans today,” says Debra Abbott-Walker, manager of Agency Recruiting for Prudential in White Plains, N.Y. “We hope that its insights will enable both Prudential and the financial services industry as a whole to better serve people of all orientations and backgrounds.”

Abbott-Walker, an experienced financial services industry professional, says she finds the study compelling from both a professional and personal standpoint. Abbott-Walker, a lesbian and married mother of two, has extensive experience in marketing and selling financial services and insurance products to members of the LGBT community.

“The study concludes that financial health and decision-making vary significantly by gender, generation, ethnicity, state of residence and relationship status,” says Abbott-Walker. “The research also highlights financial concerns and challenges related to the legal status of LGBT relationships that are unique to the community.”

Measuring the financial confidence index

The study finds that LGBT Americans earn a Prudential Financial Confidence Index score of 48 out of 100, right in the middle. While income levels span the economic spectrum, as a whole the LGBT community is largely in the middle class.

“Overall, we found the LGBT community solidly in the middle when it comes to their financial attitudes and actions. Attitudes toward investing, savings, home ownership and debt are more moderate, compared to Prudential’s general population research,” says Abbott-Walker.

The LGBT community as a whole shares common struggles yet retains distinct traits, outlooks and characteristics. For example, lesbian couples are far more likely to have children than gay men. The bisexual community is comprised of both opposite-sex and same-sex couples, while transgender people often face increased economic discrimination. With that in mind, LGBT individuals seeking financial planning advice should avoid a “one size fits all” approach.

Tips for meeting with a financial professional:

1. Discuss the benefits of a will or trust. Without a will, the intestacy laws of your state will govern distribution, and assets will not pass to an unrelated or unmarried partner. A trust is a good idea for LGBT couples whose families may not support their relationships, increasing the odds that a will may be contested.

2. Make beneficiary designations. LGBT couples may wish to list each other as beneficiaries on life insurance, 401(k) plans and IRA accounts. On non-retirement accounts, consider establishing “transfer-on-death” or “payable-on-death” provisions where state law permits such transfers.

3. Establish a durable power of attorney. These documents are important for same-sex couples who are not afforded the same range of privileges and access to each other’s financial information as opposite-sex married couples.

4. Consider a health care proxy and living will. These documents are important because same-sex couples are often denied “next of kin” status by hospitals and other medical care providers.

5. Understand the limitations of Social Security benefits. LGBT couples can have difficulty accessing the Social Security benefits of their partners, even when their home states recognize their marriages. Your retirement savings strategy will need to take this reality into account.

A timely opportunity

The Prudential research study uncovers a wealth of information that can positively impact the lives and financial futures of the LGBT community. For more insights on this topic, visit www.prudential.com/lgbt.

A borrower's guide to impressing a mortgage lender

3/5/2013

(BPT) - Who doesn’t like to make a good impression? Whether it’s a first date, meeting the future in-laws for the first time or interviewing for a job, making a good first impression can pave the way for some of life’s happiest experiences. That’s especially true for home-buyers, whose ability to secure their dream home depends on first impressing a mortgage lender.

In many areas of the country a seller’s market is emerging, with lower inventory of desirable homes and rising prices, according to the National Association of Realtors. That means increased competition for buyers, and more sellers giving preference to buyers who approach the bargaining table with their finances in order. Real estate experts and finance pros alike agree: It pays to get pre-approved for a mortgage when you’re in the market to buy a home.

Gone are the days of easy approvals, no-money down mortgages and sub-prime borrowing, thanks to the Great Recession. Borrowers today need to show sound financial management skills and good credit in order to secure the best financing deals. If you’re in the market for a mortgage this spring, here are some steps you can take to impress potential lenders:

* Examine your credit – Your credit status is key to securing a mortgage. The higher your score, the better your chances of securing a mortgage for the amount you need at the terms you want. You should monitor your credit year-round, and take a critical look at things when you know you’re going to be house-shopping. Pay all your bills on time, pay down credit card balances and keep an eye on your ratio of credit available to credit used. Websites like freecreditscore.com can help you understand your credit and make informed financial decisions. You can track your credit score and report over time, and see how your financial behaviors impact your credit.

* Stay at your current job – Long gone are the days when lenders signed off on mortgages without adequate proof of employment and income. Any mortgage company you apply to will want to see that you have a reliable work history and income. If you know you’ll be buying a house this year, now is not the time to switch jobs. If you know you’ll need to change jobs in 2013, consider putting off a house purchase, especially if you may need to relocate for a new job.

* Cap other spending – Excessive spending in the months leading up to your mortgage application may make a lender question your ability to manage debt. When you know you will be applying for a home loan, reduce other spending. Avoid large credit purchases if possible. If you must use credit for a purchase, consider how it will impact your credit. Freecreditscore.com has a patented Score Planner that lets anyone visiting the website see how their financial behaviors can affect their credit score.

* Save up a substantial down payment – It’s harder than ever to get a no-money-down mortgage. Many lenders have stopped offering them at all. To maximize your chances of getting a good mortgage deal, you’ll need about 20 percent of the purchase price for a cash down payment. Beyond helping you secure financing, there are other very good reasons to save for a down payment. First, it will help you get into the habit of saving for a goal. And, when you do buy a house, the down payment helps ensure you have instant equity – and ultimately reduces your monthly payment.

Securing financing before you go home shopping can help you make the most of your opportunities, and helps you move quickly when you find a house you want. By taking a few steps to impress potential lenders, you can make your mortgage application process a successful one – and secure the keys to your dream home.

Organ donation: gift of a second chance at life

5/3/2013

(BPT) - While organ transplantation is a remarkable story in the history of medicine, the need for organs is vastly greater than the number available for transplantation.

Any way you figure it, the math doesn’t add up to a promising picture. In 2012, there were more than 115,000 people in the U.S. awaiting an organ transplant – enough to overflow the country’s largest football stadium. Each year, more than 28,000 Americans receive a donated organ, but sadly, more than 6,500 people die each year waiting for an organ.

While many are on the waiting list for years, their number increases at the rate of more than 50,000 people a year, nearly one new person every 10 minutes. Day after day the list and the problem grow. It is, however, a problem with a solution – one that depends a lot on education and selflessness.

Professional snowboarder Chris Klug knows first-hand what the waiting game is like. After being diagnosed with PSC (Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis), a rare degenerative bile duct condition, Klug learned that he needed a liver transplant. He spent several years on the waiting list, eagerly anticipating the call that a donor organ had become available.

After a successful surgery and aggressive rehabilitation regimen, Klug won the bronze medal in snowboarding in front of the home crowd in Salt Lake City – just a year and a half after his transplant.

“I'm so blessed to be here today,” Klug says. “I will forever be grateful for my second chance. Every day I thank God and I thank my donor and his family for the decision to donate.”

A new survey released by Astellas Pharma US, Inc. shows that while 60 percent of people are familiar with their state’s organ donor registry and 57 percent would be willing to donate their organs after they pass away, only 43 percent are actually registered as organ donors and 48 percent don’t know how to register.

“We are very encouraged by the number of Americans who view organ donation positively and are willing to donate,” says David Fleming, president and CEO of Donate Life America. “However, knowing the large number of people awaiting a transplant, we are committed to continuing to educate all Americans on the importance of registering in their state, and ensuring they know.”

Registering to become a donor is a simple process that can be completed online or through many local departments of motor vehicles. Transplantation gives hope to thousands of people with organ failure and provides many others with active and renewed lives. Register today to become an organ donor at donatelife.net/register-now.

Busted: The top 4 most common pet myths

4/5/2013

(BPT) - It’s no secret that Americans love their pets. When it comes to U.S. pet ownership, 39 percent of households own at least one dog, and 33 percent own at least one cat, according to the Humane Society of the United States. Furry family members bring joy and excitement to a household, and providing the best care possible helps ensure pets have a long, healthy life.

Unfortunately, with so much information available, it’s easy to become confused about what’s really best for them. To cut through the clutter, Dr. Ashley Gallagher, veterinarian at Friendship Hospital For Animals and petMD contributor, sheds some light on some of the most common pet myths.

Myth 1: If cats have nine lives, what do dogs have?

Cats’ curious nature and quick reaction times are likely the basis of the nine lives reputation, but in reality owners need to remember that both cats and dogs only have one life. That is why it’s important to schedule regular veterinary visits to ensure your pet has a long, healthy and happy one. Going to the veterinarian shouldn't only be reserved for times when your pet is sick. Your pet needs annual wellness check-ups, vaccines, dental exams and nutritional consultations, just like humans do.

Myth 2: Table scraps are OK.

Did you know that one ounce of cheddar cheese for a 20-pound dog is like a human eating more than one and a half chocolate bars? That same piece of cheese for a 10-pound cat is like eating almost three full chocolate bars! Table scraps are basically empty calories for cats and dogs. They need precisely balanced nutrition for their specific life stage and special needs to remain healthy. A food like Hill’s Science Diet is great because it gives them exactly what they need without any excess nutrients that might be harmful.

Myth 3: Dogs wag their tail when they are happy.

Dogs wag their tail for many reasons; the most common is that they are either happy or nervous. Cats will also wag or flick their tail when they are upset or thinking. Pets communicate via complex body language rather than vocal expression like humans. Learning to read what your pet is telling you will go a long way in helping to build a fulfilling relationship. Ask your veterinarian for advice if you feel stuck learning your pet’s body language cues.

Myth 4: Letting my dog out in the yard is enough exercise.

Dogs and cats both need plenty of physical activity and mental stimulation to stay healthy. If you just leave your dog out in the yard alone they might not get much of either. It’s important to take them for walks, play fetch or simply run around together. Not only will it make for a happier, healthier dog, but it will also help to strengthen your relationship. Cats should be kept indoors for their safety, but there are plenty of toys that work their brains and their bodies at the same time. Visit your local pet store to find some toys that fit the bill.

Each pet is unique, so ongoing care, including precisely balanced nutrition, regular wellness visits to the vet and daily play periods are all good things that keep your pet healthy and living well for many years to come.

Ask the Pharmacist: Poison prevention starts at home

3/18/2013

(BPT) - It’s a serious problem with a simple solution. Nearly 1 million children under the age of 5 are exposed to potentially poisonous medicines and household chemicals, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). There is no better time than now to learn more about preventing accidental and unintentional poisonings.

“Parents know to keep household cleaners and other chemicals out of a child’s reach, but in my experience as a pharmacist, I’ve seen that they don’t always think about prescriptions, over-the-counter medications and vitamins,” says Paul Reyes, Express Scripts pharmacist and host of Ask the Pharmacist radio series.

The CDC reports that more than 60,000 young children end up in the emergency room each year from wrongly ingesting medicines; but it’s not only parents who need to be aware of the risks. Many of these incidents occur outside of the child’s home. In fact, in 23 percent of the cases in which a child under 5 mistakenly ingests an oral prescription drug, the medication belonged to someone who did not live with the child.

“Medications can keep us healthy, but can be extremely dangerous if taken by the wrong person or in the wrong amount,” says Reyes. “Add in a child’s insatiable curiosity, and you have the ingredients for a very serious and dangerous situation.”

Reyes offers these tips for preventing accidental and unintentional poisonings, and what to do if you suspect your child or teen has ingested a potentially poisonous substance:

* Be cautious of colors: Medications are colorful and attractive to children, and can be mistaken for candy. For example, Tums look like SweeTarts, and Advil and Ecotrin resemble Skittles or M&M’s. Parents should not encourage children to take their medicine by comparing it to candy, as this may lead to improper use.

* Lock it up: Don’t leave your next dose out on the counter where a child can reach it. Lock up all medicines and vitamins in a cool, dry place. Tightly secure caps and keep medicines in their original labeled containers so if there is an emergency, you can tell medical personnel exactly what the child ingested.

* When not to share: Be sure to remind children that they should never share their medication. When playing “doctor,” friends and younger siblings of those taking a medication are often the recipients; this can lead to accidental poisoning.

* Know your numbers: If the child has collapsed or is not breathing, dial 911 immediately. If the child is awake and alert, call the Poison Hotline at 800-222-1222 and follow the operator’s instructions. If possible, have available the victim's age and weight, the container or bottle of the poison, the time of the poison exposure and the address where the poisoning occurred.

* Know the signs: Reactions to ingested medications or household products may vary. Look for signs such as vomiting, drowsiness and any residue odor in the child's mouth and teeth. But know that some products cause no immediate symptoms, so if you suspect that your child has ingested a potentially hazardous substance, call the poison hotline immediately.

* Keep calm: It’s important to remain calm so you can effectively communicate with emergency personnel. If the child ingested medicine, do not give anything to the child by mouth until advised by the poison control center. If chemicals or household products have been swallowed, call the poison control center immediately or follow the first aid instructions on the label.

For more information and additional tips on preventing prescription drug abuse at home, visit lab.express-scripts.com.

Learn how to be healthy, active and live well with diabetes

1/31/2013

(BPT) - Whether you are at risk for, have been recently diagnosed with, or are living with diabetes, it is essential to make sure you have the information necessary to manage your disease. It can also be overwhelming caring for someone with diabetes. The American Diabetes Association strives to make it easier and the organization’s EXPOs are a great place to start.

EXPO is one way the American Diabetes Association helps fight diabetes on a community level by providing free access to cooking demonstrations, diabetes information and educational presentations. At EXPO, local community health organizations are brought together so that attendees may benefit from a variety of screenings such as blood pressure, blood glucose and cholesterol. The resources found at EXPO can help to Stop Diabetes (R) in its tracks.

There is a lot that goes into making EXPOs successful and one of those things is its volunteers. Roberta Pondexter has been volunteering at EXPO Chicago for the past three years. “I wanted to volunteer with an organization that hit close to home. My dad was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes six years ago. My family was initially scared and we wanted to learn more about this disease that affects so many,” says Pondexter.

This year Roberta will be an EXPO captain, managing other volunteers throughout the day. “My favorite part of EXPO is working the Healthy Lifestyle Stage,” she says. “Not only do I get to meet celebrity chefs who have been affected by diabetes, but I get to learn about easy and healthy recipes that I can make for my dad.”

The Association’s EXPO began in 1995 in Phoenix and has expanded to 11 cities around the country. In 2012, EXPO provided free diabetes information and support to nearly 55,000 individuals.

For more information about diabetes or to find an EXPOin your area, call 1-800-DIABETES (1-800-342-2383), or visit diabetes.org/EXPO.

The 2013 schedule for the American Diabetes Association EXPO is:

* Denver (Feb. 9)

* Salt Lake City (March 2)

* New York City (March 9)

* Chicago (April 13)

* Seattle (April 13)

* Los Angeles (May 4)

* Portland, Ore. (May 4)

* San Antonio (May 18)

* Northwest Arkansas (Aug. 3)

* Minneapolis (Oct. 12)

* Pittsburgh (Nov. 9)

2013 tax season tips

3/25/2013

(BPT) - It’s tax season and, as always, there are many new rules that can create traps for the unwary. But with a few tips and tricks, you can help minimize your taxes and maximize your overall long-term financial position.

Consider the following five tax tips from Robert Fishbein, vice president and corporate counsel, Prudential Financial, who has more than 25 years of experience in tax law.

1. Last minute retirement funding - You can still make a $5,000 2012 contribution to your traditional or Roth IRA, or $6,000 if you attained age 50 during or before 2012. If self employed, you can likely contribute a larger amount to a SEP IRA. The contribution must be made on or before the due date of your tax return, and you should indicate it relates to the 2012 tax year.

2. Understand the new cost basis rules – In 2011 financial institutions started tracking and tax reporting investments in stock and gain when sold. For 2012 the new rules applied to mutual funds, dividend reinvestment plans (DRIPs) and exchange traded funds (ETFs). You can choose the method to determine cost basis or default to the approach used by the financial institution. On a go-forward basis, then, the IRS will know the amount of investment gain you need to include on your tax return. For investments that predate these rules you remain responsible for tracking and reporting cost basis and gain.

3. Beware the Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT) – The American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2013 (ATRA) is said to have “fixed” the AMT. More precisely, it permanently adjusted the AMT exemption amount for inflation. The AMT exemption acts as a shield from the tax, and the adjustment precludes being subject to the tax merely because income has increased with inflation. Don’t be misled, though, and think the AMT has gone away. The AMT is alive and well and you need to calculate your regular tax liability and your AMT liability and pay the higher amount.

4. Use the reinstated rules – ATRA restored retroactively certain provisions for the 2012 and 2013 tax years, including the ability to deduct the larger of your state income tax or sales tax and to exclude from income IRA required distributions that are paid directly to a charity. Make sure you understand how you might benefit from these various reinstated rules.

5. Plan for higher tax rates – In 2013 several new changes will increase the burden for taxpayers. The expiration of a 2 percent reduction in payroll tax means a $2,000 tax increase for $100,000 of wages. The highest rate on ordinary income increased from 35 percent to 39.6 percent and on capital gains from 15 percent to 20 percent, and limitations on itemized deductions and personal exemptions can add around 2 percent more to your tax rate. Also, the health care law enacted in 2010 introduced a .9 percent increase in Medicare tax on wages and a 3.8 percent tax on investment income for high income taxpayers.

Regardless of your income level, it is likely you will pay more in taxes this year. You should consider whether to adjust your withholding or estimated tax payments so you are not subject to interest and penalties. You should also understand that the increased taxes make planning for 2013 and beyond more important than ever.

Season's cleanings - tips to keep your home clean and clutter free

3/14/2013

(BPT) - After a long winter, spring is finally in sight. Before the season is in full bloom and outdoor chores pile up, take advantage of spring showers to tackle the indoors first with easy home cleaning and organizing projects. To get your home in tip-top shape, start by breaking down your to-do list room by room, so you can create an easily achievable goal that will leave your house looking fabulous and you feeling refreshed.

Restore beauty in the bath

The bathroom may be one of the smallest rooms in the house, but it can also be the one with the biggest mess. Vanities often become a magnet for clutter. Everything, from towels to toiletries, curling irons to cotton balls, can take over this space and make cleaning a nuisance. Start by reducing your items. Marry any of your multiple containers of the same product into one container. Then, recycle the empty containers to create more space.

Once your cleaning is complete, add drawer organizers, baskets and other accessories to neatly store all necessities. Then add towel bars – such as the new Moen Ashville 18-inch towel bar available in a brushed nickel finish at The Home Depot – robe hooks and shelves as they are easy, inexpensive and decorative additions to help prevent items from ending up on the floor or countertop.

Clean and clever kitchens

Next, move to the kitchen, a favorite gathering place ... and one of the dirtiest rooms in the house. Begin by sorting through cupboards to weed out any unused products, such as specialized appliances, expired pantry foods and containers with missing lids. If it’s broken or hasn’t been used in a year, it’s time to get rid of it. You’ll instantly achieve valuable cabinet storage – as well as eliminate objects that collect dust and bacteria.

Now, start from the top and give your kitchen a thorough cleaning – including tops of cabinets and appliances – and finish with a good scrubbing of the floors. Finally, focus on updating the germiest area of the kitchen – the sink. There are typically more than 500,000 bacteria per square inch in the sink drain alone, according to Health Magazine. And that doesn’t include regularly touched items, such as your sponge and faucet.

Help inhibit the growth of stain- and odor-causing bacteria, mold and mildew with the new Moen Walden single-handle kitchen faucet featuring Microban antimicrobial protection. Microban technology is built into the faucet finish, so it works continuously, even between cleanings, and won’t wash off or wear away - which can help keep the faucet cleaner, longer.

“By featuring Microban antimicrobial technology on our faucet finish, we hope to help homeowners spend more time enjoying their home ... and less time cleaning and worrying about stains and odors,” says Andrea Conroy, director of retail marketing for Moen.

Refreshed laundry room

The laundry room, since it is often located near the frequently used garage entry, can become a catch-all for everything from cleaners to coats, and shoes to shop vacs. Free yourself of this clutter by organizing and giving everything its proper place. Items often get stashed on the horizontal surfaces – such as the floor or on top of the washer and dryer – so look to the vertical surfaces of the room to create new, more appropriate places.

Adding wall cabinets is an ideal place to add storage (and keep things neatly hidden). Wall hooks dedicated to each family member can neatly hold coats, scarves and bags. Installing shelves in the coat closet can provide additional room on top and below the garment bar. Over-the-door storage racks can house frequently used items, such as brooms or shoes.

With a few upgrades and organization to key rooms, your home will look its best and the new-found organization will energize your spirit just in time to enjoy the spring season.

For more information about Moen products, visit moen.com or call 800-BUY-MOEN.

Don't duplicate the stress: think taxes year-round

3/5/2013

(BPT) - Now that the April 15 tax filing deadline has passed, so too has the stress associated with filing taxes for most people. This year, resolve to think about taxes early and often so you don’t get caught in a last-minute panic.

Not only does this advance preparation help reduce anxiety, but it also positions you for a bigger return in the future. A little ongoing effort could mean more money and less chaos when taxes are due next year.

Follow these tips for a hassle-free filing next year:

1. Think taxes year-round. Don’t wait until you’re ready to file your taxes again to start collecting and organizing the supporting documents you’ll need to complete your return. Avoid the scramble by capturing and uploading digital image copies of important receipts when they come in, such as each time you pay the babysitter or have a tax-deductible transaction, fill a prescription at the pharmacy or make a charitable contribution such as dropping off a clothing donation to your local thrift store.

2. Securely store documents online.Avoid the mess of a mound of paperwork by storing – and organizing – all of your tax-related documents online. A secure service such as the Master Lock Vault (www.masterlockvault.com) ensures you’ll have easy access to all of your files wherever you are and that none of your paper documents will ever be lost, misplaced, stolen or damaged. Not only can you upload PDF forms, you also can upload photos from your phone of important receipts and expenses for your records. All data is instantly synchronized between the website and the app. As a bonus, you can securely store log-in information for your bank accounts and tax filing site in the Vault so you’ll never have to worry about forgetting your username or password.

3. Adjust your withholdings. While getting a large return at tax time sounds great to most people, it can sometimes mean that you are withholding too much money from each paycheck – funds that you could be spending or investing earlier in the year. Use an online tax withholding calculator, such as the one offered by the Internal Revenue Service (www.irs.gov), to ensure you’re claiming the correct number on your W-4 form and withholding the correct amount.

4. Educate yourself on new credits and deductions. If you wait to educate yourself on potential tax credits and deductions, you might miss your window of opportunity to take advantage of them and save yourself some money when it comes time to file taxes again. The IRS offers a list of credits and deductions for both individuals and businesses on its website.

5. Call for help.Sometimes, outside advice is necessary, particularly if the new year will bring a life changing event, such as a marriage, birth or buying a home. Scheduling a meeting with a tax advisor now will mean you have a strategic plan in place for managing your taxes year-round.

For more advice and to start taking advantage of these tools, visit www.masterlockvault.com.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Master Lock is not a legal, tax or accounting advisor, and the information in this press release should not be construed as legal, tax or accounting advice. Master Lock recommends that consumers consult a professional advisor for advice concerning specific tax or other matters.

Snacking on the go: perfectly portioned snacks made simple and stylish

3/26/2013

(BPT) - In today’s busy world, snacking on the go is a fact of life. However, delicious and balanced snacks don’t need to be boring; or become bruised and forgotten items at the bottom of your purse. Here are some creative ways to spice up your snack routine and help you savor perfectly portioned and portable snacks to help maintain a balanced diet.

Remember this rule of thumb.

Sometimes it’s tough to remember portion sizes for snacks when you’re busy at home or at the office. The best tool to use when portioning your snacks is actually always with you – your hand.

* The size of your thumb = a serving of cheese

* Two thumbs = a serving of your favorite nut butter

* A handful = the number of nuts you should eat

* A balled fist = a serving of fruits or veggies

Add pop – and protection – to grapes.

A simple way to make grapes a grab-and-go snack is by putting them in your freezer overnight. Fill up a serving’s worth of frozen grapes before heading out the door in the morning and enjoy at your leisure – no refrigerator necessary. If you nibble on them while they’re still frozen they have a refreshing popsicle-like taste. By afternoon, the grapes will be thawed, but not bruised.

Make it easy to grab your favorite treat and go.

Carrying snacks in your purse can be dangerous for the other contents inside, for example, a smashed banana gets everywhere. Consider using a carrying case to keep your treats away from your phone and wallet. One option is to use a lipstick case, to bring chocolate with you when you’re out and about.

“I love a little chocolate every day, so it’s really helpful to have a custom carrying case that fits just the right amount for me to enjoy on the go,” says chocolate-lover and do-it-yourself expert Brittany Bailey of the Pretty Handy Girl blog. “Four or five HERSHEY’S KISSES Chocolates fit perfectly in the case and are just 100 calories, or about 20 to 25 calories per piece. They are individually wrapped, so I can savor a moment of happiness or share with someone else.”

In addition to a lipstick case, you can try converting a travel soap box or other container into your own DIY carrying case and add your own personal touch with stickers, decorative tape or rhinestones. It’s a fun and simple way to take your favorite treats with you wherever you go.

Create your own 100-calorie pack.

Looking for something new to snack on, but don’t want to pay extra for pre-packaged convenience? Try measuring granola, nuts, cereal or dried fruit ahead of time and packing them in small plastic bags to create your own individual snack packs. Don’t forget to label them so that reusing the bags is easy. Making these easy grab-and-go snacks will help you keep track of your snacks, even when you’re at home, and these small bites will help keep you satisfied between meals.

Want more ideas on living a balanced lifestyle? Check out www.themoderationnation.com for insights, recipes and tips from lifestyle experts and more.

How to take advantage of home improvement tax rebates before time runs out

3/20/2013

(BPT) - When U.S. lawmakers made a deal to keep the country from going off the “fiscal cliff” at the end of 2012, they reinstated a tax break of up to $500 to help homeowners earn money back for energy efficient home improvements. The tax credit included in the American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012 is the first home improvement incentive since 2011, making this remodeling season an opportune time to upgrade your home’s energy efficiency and curb appeal before time runs out on Dec. 31, 2013.

While many of the products eligible for the new tax credit are the unsung heroes of home energy savings – heaters, water pumps, air conditioners – energy efficient replacement windows and doors are included, helping to save energy while also infusing new life into a dull home exterior. Pairing the latest energy efficient technology with stylish design, many window and door manufacturers are geared up with qualifying products that can fulfill any homeowner’s unique style needs.

“For anyone who regrets missing their chance to receive a tax credit for energy efficient home improvements, this is an incredible opportunity,” says Chris Pickering, vice president of marketing for Ply Gem Windows. “Old and outdated windows and doors are not only an eyesore, they can cost homeowners energy through leaks, cracks and poorly insulated glass every month.”

Since 2006, there have been a number of versions of the energy efficient tax credit for homeowners. The current extension covers all purchases made in 2013 and retroactively gives credit for 2012 purchases. The credit is 10 percent of the cost of building materials and select energy efficient heating and cooling devices, insulation and roofing for primary residence, up to $500. Installation fees do not apply.

Some categories like windows are capped at $200, but can be combined with other purchases to make up the full amount. For example, if you buy qualifying windows for $2,000, roofing for $2,000 and a water heater for $1,000, you will receive the entire $500 credit.

However, there are a few rules. The total amount of savings allowed per household is cumulative since the program began in 2006. So, if you’ve already received $500 or more in total credits since 2006, you are not eligible to earn more credit. But, if you’ve received less than $500, you can still add new credits, up to the full amount.

Windows and doors that are eligible for the tax credit must be ENERGY STAR qualified in the region where they are being installed. Look to products like the Ply Gem Windows Mira Premium Series, which can be configured to meet ENERGY STAR requirements in every U.S. climate zone and are available in 38 colors, with multiple shapes and grille patterns.

According to ENERGY STAR’s website, all of the windows, doors and skylights in your home do not need to be replaced to qualify. Also, new windows and doors that were not there previously, like ones in an addition, qualify for the tax credit.

The tax credit will be given, dollar-for-dollar, in the following year’s tax returns, so be sure to keep your receipts. To find ENERGY STAR rated window and door products for your climate zone, visit www.plygemwindows.com and consult with your local dealer or contractor to ensure the products you are purchasing qualify for the tax credit.

Medical device innovations lead to extraordinary advances

3/11/2013

From custom prosthetics to minimally invasive surgery, innovations in medical devices are leading to some astonishing advances. One example: an artificial heart that uses plastic tubes instead of heart valves to move blood in and out of two plastic ventricles. Implanted in more than 1,000 patients, this plastic heart has extended lives by more than 270 years. And now U.S. regulators are reviewing an accompanying mobile power supply carried in a backpack, so suitable patients could leave the hospital and live at home.

It’s a remarkable development – and it’s just one of many in the works, often made possible by specialized plastics. Here are some others on the horizon:

Vaccination patches: Researchers are developing a plastic skin patch that could replace many painful injections. The patch contains plastic “micro-needles” that dissolve into the skin, painlessly delivering vaccinations for a variety of diseases, including the flu. Patients might even be able to administer the vaccine themselves.

Resorbable heart stent: A plastic heart stent can open a clogged artery to restore blood flow to the heart – and then slowly dissolve into the body. This resorbable plastic could eliminate the need for another invasive procedure to remove the stent, as well as reduce the likelihood of blood clots and scarring.

3-D body part printing: Researchers are using a layered assembly manufacturing technique – called “3-D printing” – to create medical devices and implants using plastics. For example, a type of plastic and living cells are combined into a material used to make 3-D printed implants to replace human ear cartilage. The combination of materials makes the body more likely to respond favorably to the implant, according to researchers.

Polycarbonate medical devices: An extremely tough, clear plastic, polycarbonate now is being used to make transparent surgical tools, such as cannulas (small tubes inserted into the body) that enable arthroscopic surgery. Since polycarbonate is clear, surgeons gain better visibility of sutures and surgical knots during the procedure.

Bacteria-resistant plastics: Several newly discovered plastics might contribute to reduced infections. These plastics have “nonstick” surfaces that bacteria aren’t attracted to, which could help prevent contamination from bacteria-laden “biofilms.” The plastics could be used to make catheters or medical equipment to help ward off preventable disease.

Self-healing prosthetics: Researchers are developing a new plastic “skin” that recognizes when it’s been damaged and responds by healing itself. The plastic skin mimics the flexibility and sensitivity of human skin – it becomes electrically conducive by adding a bit of nickel. The plastic skin can restore its mechanical and electrical properties after being cut and that cycle can be repeated over and over again. Among other applications, researchers hope the self-healing plastic may be used to manufacture lifelike prosthetic limbs that heal themselves after injury – much the way human skin does.

Lifesaving plastic foam: A novel use of polyurethane plastic foam is being explored to stabilize trauma patients with internal injuries on the battlefield. The U.S. government is studying the use of polyurethane foam to fill injured body cavities following severe internal injury from combat. The foam expands inside the body, conforming to the shape of injured tissue and reducing blood loss, before the surgeon removes the foam in one piece. Based on recent tests, researchers estimate that this technology could significantly boost survival rates.

Printing human ears, delivering painless vaccines, self-healing artificial skin, see-through medical devices; while these innovations may sound futuristic, some already exist – and others may hold the potential to improve medical care for people around the world.

Water cooperation case study [Infographic]

3/20/2013

The world’s most precious finite resource is not oil, but water – essential to life, human and economic development, and geopolitical stability. According to the United Nations, nearly 1 billion of the Earth’s 7 billion-plus people do not have access to clean water. This integrated water management model demonstrates how dwindling water supplies can be managed more efficiently through public-private collaborations.

Technology can turn $25 into a family giving tradition

5/7/2013

Technology has been connecting families for generations. The invention of the phone let us hear voices of loved ones far away, and the creation of the Internet helped us to see them. Today, those same technologies that we’ve used to bring our families closer together are helping us to connect with and support families who are worlds apart. In doing so, the very concept and experience of “gifting” and philanthropy is being transformed.

For example, lending may not have fit into the philanthropy category in the past. Now, however, lending lets people go beyond traditional giving by using new technologies. The concept has grown dramatically through organizations like Kiva, which enables anyone with an Internet connection and $25 to make a micro-loan to one of thousands of low-income entrepreneurs in more than 65 countries, including the United States. Just go to www.kiva.org to find a borrower to whom you can lend $25 – it might be a mother in Uganda selling solar lights to pay for her children’s school supplies, a woman in Mongolia providing yogurt to local schools to help support her family, or a mom in Kenya using her dairy cow profits to help further her schooling.

You have an opportunity to make a big difference for women, families and communities – beyond traditional giving.

Since 2005, the nonprofit Kiva has been dedicated to alleviating poverty by connecting people through microlending. It has connected more than 900,000 lenders to more than 800,000 women around the world.

Millions of women globally work hard to shape future generations. Many of them do it, however, with close to nothing. Women make up the vast majority of the world’s poor. With limited resources, their potential is too often squandered – not only their potential to provide for their families, but also to achieve their dreams, educate their children, model gender equality and more. Consider these eye-opening statistics from Kiva:

* More than 1 billion people live in extreme poverty, and 75 percent of them are women and girls.

* Seventy-six million primary school-age children aren’t in school, and 60 percent of them are girls.

* Fifty percent of pregnant women in developing countries lack proper maternal care, resulting in more than 300,000 maternal deaths per year.

But when a woman contributes to her family’s income, at least 80 percent of her earnings go toward supporting her family’s needs and nurturing her children’s potential. A child born to a mother who can read is 50 percent more likely to survive past the age of five. Each year of additional schooling increases individual earnings by 10 percent.

And, by partnering with organizations that offer maternal health and education services on top of the loans, Kiva helps lenders make an even bigger impact on the lives of women and families.

You can send the special woman in your life a Kiva Card - $25 to lend to any borrower they choose. It’s the perfect way for her to connect with causes and places she cares about as she chooses borrowers she would like to support with your gift. Together, Kiva lenders have helped fund more than $420 million in loans. When the borrower repays a loan – and Kiva’s repayment rate is a 98.9 percent – your gift card recipient can choose a new borrower, so the cycle of support continues. Visit kiva.org/gifts to find out more about Kiva Cards.

Lending to caretakers – women in particular – has an incredible ripple effect that touches lives across families, communities and the world. Giving women the tools they need to create a brighter future is truly “the gift that keeps on giving.”

Sometimes, lending time is just as important as lending a dollar. To make volunteering more effective, it’s important to match people with the right skills to the right job. The website VolunteerMatch has emerged as a way for volunteers to find positions that match their skills and expertise, and for charities to recruit volunteers. There is no shortage of charities making change in the lives of women and families that can benefit from your volunteerism.

Whether you choose to give your time or money, or make a life-changing loan, it’s easier than ever to find ways to help others. Visit www.kiva.org to make a loan or give a woman you love a Kiva Card, giving her a gift that helps families around the world.

Living with chronic pain? Find the right help

1/21/2013

(BPT) - When a person is in pain, he or she will seek options to attempt to reduce or eliminate the pain. For minor pains like headaches, muscle aches and small wounds, often over-the-counter drugs can help reduce suffering. But people with chronic pain may have to search for other solutions.

More than 100 million Americans suffer from chronic pain, at a cost of $600 billion a year in medical treatments and lost productivity, according to a 2011 Institute of Medicine report. As of Jan. 1, 2013, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) started paying providers without formal training in pain medicine to diagnose and treat chronic pain.

The American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) advises against receiving care from providers without training in treating chronic pain because patient safety can be seriously compromised. In addition to jeopardizing patient safety, untrained providers lower the quality of health care and can increase the risk for fraud and prescription drug abuse. Untrained providers lack the sufficient education and training needed to properly prescribe opioids, according to the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP).

Clifton Phillips, 44, of Bowie, Md., has pain throughout his body. He suffers from osteoarthritis, migraine headaches, a herniated disc and a pinched nerve in his lower back, which causes discomfort and burning in his foot. For three years Phillips worked through the pain before he sought help from an orthopedic doctor who prescribed opioid pain medications for him. However, Phillips soon became dependent upon the medication and suffered significant side effects.

Treatment of chronic pain is complex and can be associated with significant complications. This is due to the potential for severe side effects from some of the medications used to treat pain and the anatomy and delicate structure of the spine and nerves upon which many chronic pain interventions are performed. Knowing that he couldn’t sustain a successful lifestyle while taking the highly addictive opioid meds, Phillips looked for alternative treatment options through his neurologist who referred him to a highly trained anesthesiologist pain medicine physician.

“I encourage others suffering from chronic pain to do your due diligence, research your options and don’t be afraid to ask questions about treatments,” Phillips says. “I feel safe knowing a physician who specializes in pain not only safely administers my pain treatments, but also is able to diagnose and work with me to develop a customized and effective pain treatment plan.”

Specialized pain physicians have the education and training to accurately diagnose, evaluate and treat chronic pain patients using a comprehensive approach including medications and pain procedures. Treatments can range from medical management, physical therapy and psychological therapy, to interventional therapies and other alternative medical treatments. These therapies can be risky and require the skill of anesthesiologists or other physicians who possess the training and knowledge to provide safe, competent and appropriate care. These physicians complete a one-year multidisciplinary pain fellowship in addition to their post-doctoral training, according to ASA. A pain physician, like an anesthesiologist, is a patient’s best solution to finding a well-trained provider to treat chronic pain conditions, similar to what Phillips was experiencing.

Dr. John F. Dombrowski, an anesthesiologist pain medicine physician and executive director at the Washington Pain Center in Washington, D.C., began giving Phillips steroid injection therapy for a month. Today, Phillips is completely off opioid pain medications and reports the burning in his foot subsided, making him a happier person.

“I look forward to being more spontaneous and enjoying my life – I believe with these treatments, this could become a reality,” he says.

To learn more about pain treatment, visit physician-paincare.com.

To comfort a cold or flu, home remedies make a world of difference

2/5/2013

(BPT) - For generations, families have passed down home-spun remedies that can help loved ones feel that even during those sniffles and sneezes, they’re cared for. Having a bowl of grandma’s famous soup or your aunt’s special healing concoction can help your body heal and set your mind at ease. Recently, a group of Latina mom bloggers shared their families’ home remedies that bring comfort to loved ones.

“Home remedies come from the heart – and what could be more comforting than that?” asks blogger Ana Flores, of SpanglishBaby.com. “The little gestures matter, whether it’s making a bowl of soup for someone, wrapping them in a warm blanket or giving them a pack of Kleenex brand facial tissue to help with the sniffles.”

Ana shared a few examples of home remedies other moms shared in their blogs:

* Lilian Hurn of SuperBaratisimoGratis.com says that her grandmother had a wealth of advice and practices that helped her ailing family members. To reduce nasal congestion and calm a sore throat, her grandmother put thinly sliced ginger into boiling water, let it steep and then had her family members drink the liquid throughout the day.

* Dania Santana of LaFamiliaCool.com says her mother and grandmother’s cold season cure-all is simple, effective and lasts up to three weeks in the refrigerator. The concoction was made by mixing together aloe vera pulp, lemon juice, horseradish and honey in a blender and then judiciously serving it to sick loved ones.

* Jessica Escobar of JustJessATX.com says that her mom always recommended drinking chamomile (manzanilla) tea – for just about any ailment. She also makes “sopita” (soup) with a kid-friendly twist – using star-shaped pasta instead of rice. Jessica browns a small portion of chicken, adds water, a little bouillon, as well as the stars, and lets her “sopita” simmer for an easy, comforting treat.

“While these home remedies are not scientifically proven, they do demonstrate the need moms have had for generations to comfort their loved ones,” adds Flores. “Everyone can use a bit of comfort, and small gestures can make a big difference.”

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has some tips of its own to help you through this year’s tough cold and flu season:

* Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Immediately throw the used tissue in the garbage.

* Make sure your workplace has an adequate supply of tissues, soap, paper towels, alcohol-based sanitizing hand rubs and disposable wipes.

* Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth to minimize the spread of germs.

* Stay home when you’re sick.

To show someone how much you care, pick up specially-marked bundle packs of Kleenex brand facial tissue and locate the special code on the package. Enter the code at Kleenex.com to send a Care Pack, which includes hand sanitizer, tissues and more, to someone who needs a little extra comfort when they’re feeling under the weather. To learn more, visit the Spanish-language Kleenex “Softness Worth Sharing” website www.es.kleenex.com/suavidad. While supplies last. Some restrictions apply.

Getting girls excited about science and math

4/22/2013

(BPT) - “My research experiences have shown me that, in spite of what statistics say about women in science, any girl with a passion for exploring unanswered questions can and should be persistent in pursuing that work,” says Sara Volz, 17. “Being female should not hold anyone back from science or engineering.”

Volz won the grand prize and $100,000 in the 2013 Intel Science Talent Search, the nation’s oldest and most prestigious high school science research competition, for her research of algae biofuels. The competition inspires students to tackle some of the world’s biggest challenges, from cancer treatments to natural disaster solutions. This year, nearly half of the 40 finalists were female.

According to the Department of Commerce, women currently hold fewer than 25 percent of jobs in science, technology, engineering and math fields, but job opportunities in those areas are expected to grow almost twice as much as other occupations by 2018.

Parents of girls currently in junior high or high school can encourage their daughters to stay interested in science and math by supporting their education in the subjects, both in the classroom and in extracurricular activities. To help inspire girls to pursue science, female Intel Science Talent Search finalists share their experiences on how they stayed involved:

* Develop a science network. A support team of like-minded classmates and friends can strengthen a girl’s interest and success in science and engineering subjects.

* Find a mentor. Teachers, neighbors, parents of friends and even business leaders in your community make great mentors in science and math. They help girls visualize the exciting path ahead of them.

* Get your hands dirty. You can only learn so much about science by reading a textbook. Immerse yourself in hands-on experiences, in the laboratory or out in the field. Actually doing science is what makes science so fun.

* Embrace your unique perspective. Research has found that men and women approach problems from different angles, which gives girls interested in science the ability to provide new and creative suggestions.

* Prepare to be surprised. Science is fun. Girls can learn and explore cutting-edge territory and be involved in researching breakthroughs in science. These breakthroughs, from medical treatments to environmental solutions, can lead to changing the world.

* Don’t give up. Stereotypes exist, but they shouldn’t prevent a girl from doing something she loves. Instead, embrace the challenge of going against socially-constructed limits and wow everyone.

As the 19 female finalists in the 2013 Intel Science Talent Search prove, girls can succeed in the fields of science and math and enjoy what they’re learning, as well. Those who explore and study these subjects have excellent future career potential and will embark on a journey of discovery in their learning.

Money advice for expectant and new parents

2/5/2013

(BPT) - Have you ever heard the saying that “babies don’t come with owner’s manuals”? It’s true that no matter how many books you read, classes you take, or experienced parents you talk to, you can never be completely prepared for the challenges and joys of parenthood. You can, however, prepare yourself for the costs of a new baby – by looking after your finances before your bundle arrives.

New parents don’t always prepare for the expenses associated with having a baby. One survey by Redbook Magazine and VISA found that less than 50 percent of expectant parents create a new budget that includes baby expenses. And while 76 percent of parents-to-be felt financially prepared for a baby, after the tyke arrived, 41 percent of new parents said they weren’t as prepared as they had thought.

Taking steps like clipping coupons and buying secondhand clothes can help new parents save cash, but other important financial considerations – such as protecting their credit scores – require advanced planning. Here are some tips to help expectant and new parents to look after their finances:

Before the baby arrives

* Review your health insurance and what it covers. The full costs of pre-natal care, maternal care and delivery are not always covered by all insurance plans. As soon as you know you are pregnant – or when you make the decision to conceive – contact your insurer and ask for a detailed explanation of benefits. The Redbook survey found that unexpected hospital costs – things that couples thought their insurance would cover – cost one in four new parents more than $2,000 from their own pockets. Knowing what’s covered, and what’s not, can help you determine how much cash to set aside for hospital expenses.

* Review your credit. One way or another, you will be spending money – a lot of it – when the new baby arrives. Whether you need to tap credit to buy nursery furniture or need a good credit score so you can get a better auto policy that costs less, it’s important to understand this aspect of your financial well-being. Enrolling in a product such as freecreditscore.com can help you understand your credit score and status, which can help you make informed decisions about how you will use credit during this potentially financially challenging time.

* Create a spending plan. Your overall spending plan should not only include a budget for day-to-day costs like diapers, but a long-term plan for larger expenses such as nursery furniture, day care, and college savings. It’s important to estimate not only how much you’ll spend but when you’ll spend it, too. For example, your short-term budget may include the cost of a crib – an item you will need immediately – but you may be able to postpone other furniture purchases like a dresser or changing table.

When you’re new parents

* Buy wisely and frugally. From clipping coupons to buying off-brand names or purchasing from second-hand stores, it’s possible to equip your baby with everything he or she needs at a fraction of the cost of buying brand new, brand-name retail products. It’s normal to feel pressured to buy new, top-of-the-line luxury items for your baby, but used items and off-brand products can be just as good. Check out online ratings for a used item’s durability before you buy it, and see what other consumers have to say about cheaper brands of diapers, baby wipes and clothing.

* Continue to keep an eye on your credit; it’s a key element of your financial health. Good credit directly affects your ability to buy that bigger house you need as Junior starts to grow, get an auto loan for a minivan, or secure a new job in some cases. The Internet can help. For example, freecreditscore.com offers a Score Planner that lets members and nonmembers see for free how their financial behaviors can affect their credit scores.

While nothing can really prepare you for the agony of sleepless nights with a newborn or the joys of seeing your baby take his or her first steps, it is possible to prepare for the financial responsibilities associated with becoming a parent.

Free birth control gives women more choice

4/10/2013

(BPT) - Thanks to the Affordable Care Act (ACA) also known as “Obama Care,” an estimated 47 million women are gaining access to all FDA-approved methods of birth control free of charge. This new law provides access to birth control methods that may have been too expensive for many women with private health insurance plans before the ACA provisions took effect last year. The result is that these women will now have more options to choose from as they decide what method works best for them.

Awareness of the new birth control coverage is low, according to a recent survey by Phoenix Marketing International. The survey found that more than half of women aged 18 to 45 were unaware that birth control will be covered at no cost under the ACA for those with private insurance. Yet of those women who were aware, nearly one quarter said they were not sure what birth control methods will be included under the ACA. Further, only one in 10 women surveyed said she had requested information from her doctor or health insurance company regarding what’s covered, such as a list of birth control options.

Cost can impact a woman’s birth control choice. As more private insurance plans adopt the new ACA provisions, OB/GYN physicians across the country are helping patients find out whether their particular plans now provide free birth control.

For instance, Dr. Gerard Reilly, at Seven Hills Women's Health Centers in Cincinnati, offers a range of birth control methods to his patients. But some options have been out of reach financially for patients with high-deductible insurance plans. As an example, Dr. Reilly offers the Essure(R) procedure for women whose families are complete and are seeking a highly effective permanent birth control solution. Essure is a minimally invasive procedure that can be performed in a physician’s office. However, some patients have been hesitant to get the procedure due to high out-of-pocket costs.

To address this issue, Dr. Reilly’s team has been contacting patients’ private insurance companies to verify whether they are eligible for free birth control under the ACA. As it turns out, several patients are now covered and are able to get the Essure procedure without a co-pay or a deductible. Patients who learn this news often decide to schedule their Essure procedure with Dr. Reilly.

Besides birth control, the ACA provides coverage for many women’s preventative services, including annual well-woman visits, mammograms, screenings for cervical cancer and prenatal care.

Women are encouraged to contact their health insurance plans directly to learn whether preventive services are covered with no cost-sharing.

Preventing medication fraud and abuse starts at home

2/25/2013

(BPT) - Prescription drug abuse has reached epidemic proportions across the United States. More than 6 million Americans abuse prescription drugs and much of the abuse begins at home, according to a national survey on drug use and health. In fact, more than 70 percent of those who illegally use prescription pain relievers obtained them through friends or family, including surreptitiously raiding the home medicine cabinet. However, a recent study revealed that only 19 percent of parents are concerned about the misuse of narcotic pain medicines in their own families, showing that many do not recognize the severity of the problem.

The most commonly abused prescription drugs are opioids or narcotic pain medications. When used along with other prescription medications like benzodiazepines and muscle relaxers, they deliver a cocaine-like high. Abuse accounts for 84 percent of patient-related prescription drug fraud, according to research by Express Scripts, the nation’s largest pharmacy benefit manager.

“Narcotic pain killers can be essential in the treatment of a variety of serious medical conditions; unfortunately they can also ruin lives when used improperly or abused,” says Jo-Ellen Abou Nader, senior director of Express Scripts’ Fraud, Waste and Abuse program. “Ending the national epidemic of prescription drug abuse demands constant vigilance and this includes proper storage and disposal of these medications.”

Abou Nader offers some simple do’s and don’ts you can follow at home to reduce the risk of drug fraud and abuse:

Do:

* Keep drugs out of reach: Be sure to store your medications in a locked area out of children’s reach. Ask your pharmacist if they can provide medication bottles with child-resistant caps.

* Keep track of your treatments: Keep a list of the medications in your home, especially those prone to abuse. Periodically count the medications remaining in the container and make sure that it’s the correct amount according to the prescribed dosage.

* Dispose properly: If specific disposal instructions are provided on the label, follow them. Otherwise, remove the medication from their original containers or vials, mix them with an undesirable substance such as used coffee grounds, kitty litter or saw dust and place them in a sealable bag that can be disposed in the trash. Also, people should take advantage of the next DEA Drug Take-Back Day on April 27.

Don’t:

* Make it easy: Don’t store narcotics or potentially addictive drugs in a medicine cabinet. If that is the only option, add a lock to the cabinet and hide the key.

* Save for next time: Once your condition has been treated and your prescription regimen complete, properly dispose of the drugs. Never keep extra medication for potential use in the future.

* Share your medicine: The specific drug and dosage was selected specifically for the person it was prescribed for and could lead to dangerous drug interactions and serious side effects if used by someone else.

By following these simple steps you can help protect your family and friends against the nation’s costly problem of prescription drug fraud and abuse. For more resources and information about prescription fraud and abuse, visit Express Scripts’ Healthcare Insights blog at lab.express-scripts.com.

A 'not-so-rare' story in the journey of a rare disease diagnosis

4/4/2013

(BPT) - In the year 2000, Lisa Wollman, a young, vibrant woman in the prime of her life, was pregnant with her second child, and like many expectant mothers, was experiencing changes in her mood and body. However, she knew something was not quite right. Lisa started experiencing anxiety and insomnia, which had not occurred during her first pregnancy. After visiting multiple doctors, Lisa was told her symptoms would subside post-pregnancy, however several weeks after giving birth, she began experiencing other unusual symptoms, including excessive facial hair growth, acne and depression. These signs and symptoms prompted further doctor visits ultimately leading to the diagnosis of Cushing’s disease, which affects approximately one to two people per million annually.

Cushing’s disease is a rare but serious, debilitating endocrine disorder caused by the presence of a non-cancerous pituitary tumor in the brain which ultimately leads to excess cortisol in the body. Cortisol is a vital hormone that regulates metabolism, maintains cardiovascular function and helps the body respond to stress. The excess cortisol circulating in the body can lead to many unwanted physical and emotional effects, including those Lisa experienced, as well as symptoms such as high blood pressure, irritability, high cholesterol, rapid uncontrollable weight gain, central obesity, a round, red full face and striae (purple stretch marks), among others. Symptoms can vary from person to person.

During the journey to diagnosis for many Cushing’s disease patients, doctors may look at, and treat, individual symptoms, resulting in a missed or delayed diagnosis of Cushing’s disease. In fact, the average time to diagnosis is six years from the time the patient first notices symptoms. In Lisa’s case, it took about eight months of proactively advocating for testing and visiting doctors before learning that she had Cushing’s disease.

“Each specialist just looked into select symptoms based on their area of expertise and no one was willing to look at the full picture in order to consider a complete diagnosis,” said Lisa. “It wasn’t until I gained enough weight, lost enough sleep, and started to look like a football player that I was pushed by my father and my psychiatrist to get my own cortisol tested.”

Following her diagnosis, Lisa faced the emotional effects and social stresses of having a rare disease, and felt as though she was viewed differently in both her personal and professional life. Fortunately, Lisa connected with a Cushing’s disease support group, and found comfort in sharing her personal story and learning from others with similar Cushing’s disease journeys.

“When I was sick, I found that talking to other people who had been through what I went through was very, very helpful, and at times life-saving,” Lisa said. “I encourage people with Cushing’s disease to talk to each other about their experiences, because otherwise there’s a feeling of isolation and the sense that you’re suffering alone.”

In recognition of patients living with Cushing’s disease, people across the globe celebrate Cushing’s Disease Awareness Day on April 8 - the birthday of Dr. Harvey Cushing, who was the first person to describe the disease. Spreading awareness can help educate and unify the community in support of this underserved disease.

To help support Cushing’s disease patients worldwide, tell your family and friends about Cushing’s Disease Awareness Day and pass along educational resources like CushingsDisease.com. For more information about Cushing’s disease, please visit, CushingsDisease.com.

Knowing your health heritage: the familial link of diseases

3/22/2013

(BPT) - Family members can have many things in common, including physical characteristics and personality traits. While some traits are obvious, like having red hair or blue eyes, some shared traits are not as obvious, such as the risk for developing a common medical condition, like high cholesterol, or a rare disease.

A rare disease is one that affects fewer than 200,000 people, and about 30 million Americans have one of 7,000 known rare diseases. Because about 80 percent of rare diseases are genetic in origin, knowing one’s family history is an essential part of the recognition and diagnosis of these conditions.

Unfortunately, it’s not uncommon for family members of someone diagnosed with a rare disease to go untested, which could delay getting an accurate diagnosis and potentially appropriate medical attention. Families should keep an open line of communication about diseases that may be genetic and if appropriate, encourage their relatives to seek evaluation by a knowledgeable medical professional. Nikia, 32, who is living with a rare swelling disease called hereditary angioedema (HAE), knows firsthand the importance of familial testing.

HAE is a genetic disease that affects about 6,000 people in the United States. The disease causes repeated swelling attacks that can occur anywhere in the body, including arms, legs, hands, feet, stomach, genitals, face and throat. HAE attacks can be unpredictable, painful, debilitating and disfiguring. The average HAE patient endures about 10 years of repeated misdiagnoses before the disease is accurately identified. Along with a blood testing, a comprehensive family history can help accurately diagnosis HAE. Often, people who are diagnosed with HAE report having relatives who suffered their whole lives from severe stomach aches or unexplained episodes of swelling, or even relatives who died unexpectedly due to throat swelling, who likely had HAE but were never accurately diagnosed.

Nikia was first diagnosed with HAE when she was just 5 years old, after experiencing severe swelling all over her body. Nikia’s mother had also suffered from bouts of unexplained swelling throughout her life, but because her attacks were less severe and only occurred in her feet, she never sought medical attention. It was Nikia’s cousin who eventually encouraged her mother to get tested for HAE, and three years after Nikia was diagnosed, her mother’s testing indicated that she also had HAE. Because of her cousin’s persistence, Nikia’s mother was finally able to understand the cause of her own unexplained swelling episodes and received medical attention that helped her manage her attacks.

Understanding the likelihood that she could pass HAE on to her children, Nikia had both of her children evaluated for the disease. Although her daughter was not diagnosed with the condition, her son eventually was. When Nikia’s son was about 3 years old, he was frequently being sent home from school for nausea and vomiting. Nikia, who had experienced similar symptoms as a child, recognized the likelihood that it could be due to HAE. Testing confirmed that her son did, indeed, have the disease.

“When my son was diagnosed with HAE, I wasn’t afraid or sad,” says Nikia. “It gave me the spirit to further educate myself and other health care providers so that they could potentially help someone else by getting an earlier diagnosis. I learned as much as I could about the HAE landscape so that I could be the best advocate for my son.

Today, Nikia dedicates much of her time to staying up to speed on new information or medical advances in HAE and spreading awareness of the disease amongst her family, friends and community. She shares the new information she learns with her extended family and encourages members of her family to get evaluated for the condition. To date, she has prompted two cousins to undergo testing for HAE. It is her hope that her loved ones will also spread knowledge about the disease so that others may be properly diagnosed without having to endure years of untold suffering.

“Even though some of my family members have been tested for HAE and the results came back negative, they are now educated about this disease and can help raise awareness among others,” says Nikia.

To learn more about HAE and to access helpful tools for families impacted by HAE, visit www.HAEandMe.com, an online resource for people with HAE, their friends and family members that offers tips and advice for people of all ages. To find a health care professional, visit www.HAEA.org, the official website of the U.S. Hereditary Angioedema Association.

Tips for managing your credit while traveling

3/6/2013

(BPT) - When it comes to the excesses and indulgences of vacation, you might like to think that “what happens in Vegas (or wherever you travel) stays in Vegas.” Unfortunately, poor spending and credit choices made on vacation definitely come home with you, so it’s important to take steps to protect your credit – both before and while you travel.

If your spring and summer plans include vacation, keep these financial considerations in mind:

Prepping for your trip

Planning ahead is one of the best ways to save money on travel. Book air tickets, lodging reservations and rental cars well in advance; prices rarely go down as your travel date approaches. Booking in advance also allows you extra time to shop around for the best possible deals.

Comparison price everything – from airfare to attraction tickets – online. Remember to include Web coupon sites in your search, not just popular travel sites. Online review sites can also help you learn more about lodging and attraction options in far-away destinations.

Shopping around can also help you decide if you’re traveling at the best time for you, or if you have some flexibility to travel when prices are lower.

While using a credit card to book online is a smart move – credit cards offer consumer protections that cash and debit cards don’t – be sure to pay off the purchases right away. If you know you won’t be able to pay off the travel costs immediately, review your credit standing. Consider how credit purchases for travel might impact your credit score. Websites like freecreditscore.com can help you understand the impact certain credit decisions may have on your overall finances. Freecreditscore.com has a patented Score Planner that lets you see how financial behaviors can affect your credit score.

Prepare for your travel plans by saving money toward that goal. Some banks have revived the tradition of a vacation club savings account, but you can set aside money in any interest-bearing account to fund your travel plans.

While traveling

If you planned ahead, booked in advance and did your homework to find the best deals on airfare and lodging, you’ve made a good start. It’s important to continue making good financial choices while on the road. Take steps to protect your cash, credit and identity while traveling.

Some cash will likely be required on your trip. Never carry all your cash in one place; instead, split it up between multiple bags, or have a traveling companion carry some of your cash. When you arrive at your destination, store cash in the hotel safe and only take out what you think you will need for the day’s activities.

When using your credit card on the road, never let it out of your sight. Be aware of “shoulder surfers” who may stand behind you in a ticket line and use a smartphone to snap a picture of your card. Carry just one card for use and store a backup in the hotel safe in case of emergencies. Leave unnecessary cards and identification – such as your Social Security card or wholesale club card – at home.

Never use a public Wi-Fi connection – such as the ones found in airports or hotels – to access your online financial accounts. Enterprising crooks have been known to use special devices to hack account information from unsuspecting travelers.

Once you’re back home, take another look at your credit and keep a close eye on financial statements and credit accounts for a few months. Catching fraud early may help mitigate its financial impact.

Outdoor gear that performs year-round

2/20/2013

(BPT) - Rugged camping gear is no longer just for adventurers and niche outdoor sports. High-tech or activity-specific outdoor products are gaining popularity because they also come in handy every day and around the house.

“As it turns out, the durability and dependability of gear needed on remote hikes or climbs has many outdoor lovers reaching for those same items around the home,” says gifts.com editor Dan Tower, who specializes in sharing gift ideas catered to specific occasions and recipients.

Tower identified the following durable gear, as camping season approaches, for its versatility across a variety of settings.

Water, water everywhere

It wasn’t long ago that water bottles were strictly for camping. Now people enjoy having water within arm’s reach at all times. Whether it’s a need to stay hydrated or just the eco-sensible peace of mind gained by avoiding single use containers, a go-to water bottle has become a ubiquitous personal accessory.

Liberty Bottleworks make gorgeous, 100 percent BPA-free water bottles showcasing artwork sourced from emerging graphic artists. Arguably though, the best part is the bottles are the only American-made metal water bottles available, with production in Yakima, Wash. Plus, they’re made from 100 percent recycled aluminum that’s tough enough to pack for the jungle or urban jungle.

Let there be light

A headlamp may seem exclusive to adrenaline-pumping activities like rock climbing, caving and hiking at night, but this hands-free lighting source can be incredibly beneficial in a power outage, when changing a tire at night or more common activities like an evening bike ride.

The Energizer Micro Sport Headlight from Energizer is a new headlamp that offers a helpful, hands-free lighting source. While biking and running enthusiasts will especially appreciate its lightweight and slim profile, the headlight is similarly tailored for everyday activities like taking the dog for an evening walk. With a white spot light in the front and a red flashing light in the back, streets and sidewalks will be clearly illuminated, but more importantly, others will be able to see you.

Be my guest

The Pakmat Airbed is another great outdoor must-have that comes in handy all year. One of its most attractive attributes is that, when not in use, it is stored in a small canister. This benefit is obvious when backpacking and camping, but is also an advantage for apartment dwellers who don’t have ample storage space or a guest room, and want to easily accommodate an overnight guest.

Part sleeping pad and part inflatable bed, the Pakmat is a self-contained air mattress that needs no electricity to inflate. Its container also doubles as the pump that inflates it and makes it sleep-ready. When the the slumber party is over, the Pakmat rolls back up into its canister, ready for the next adventure.

Just in case

There’s a smartphone case that’s tough enough to weather nature’s nastiest elements, which will also assure parents their phones will be safer in the hands of young kids. The LifeProof Case takes gadget protection to an exciting new level. In addition to making your iPhone shockproof, the LifeProof case is also waterproof (and dirtproof and snowproof). Taking your iPhone up to 6 feet under water opens up a whole new world of picture- and video-taking possibilities – whether that’s on your next kayaking adventure or at a backyard pool. Outdoor gear has numerous uses outside of campgrounds and state parks. As spring starts to do its thing, many outdoor enthusiasts on the lookout for the latest gear should also consider the year-round benefits of their purchases.

Seller's market success tips for buyers and sellers

3/5/2013

(BPT) - Key indicators point to conditions for a seller’s real estate market this spring. With fewer homes on the market, low interest rates, rising home prices and lower unemployment rates, there will be increased competition for buyers and faster sales for homeowners looking to move. With some planning and understanding of the market, it’s possible for both groups to make the most of this evolving marketplace.

“Dramatic increases in both sales and prices are bringing homebuyers and sellers back to the market, indicating the worst of the housing crisis is behind us,” says Margaret Kelly, CEO of RE/MAX, LLC. “The market ended 2012 on a positive note and there’s every reason to believe 2013 will be even stronger.”

Whether you’re planning to sell your house or are in the market to buy one, here are some tips for succeeding in the emerging seller’s market:

If you’re selling

“Some rules of smart selling never change, no matter what the market is like,” Kelly says. “Even with improved home prices and fewer homes on the market, sellers must still work to make their houses appealing to buyers who want to be able to envision themselves in the home.”

Curb appeal is vital. Keep landscaping neat, well-groomed and appealing with bright flowers, cut grass and well-trimmed shrubs. Sidewalks and paths should be clean and free of debris, and entryways well-lit. To really spruce up your entryway, consider a fresh coat of paint on the front door.

Inside, repaint. Painting is a cost-effective way to freshen decor and gives you the opportunity to create a neutral environment that buyers will be able to picture themselves in. Declutter throughout the house, including closets, and remove personal photographs.

Choose a real estate agent who knows your area. A well-priced home sells quickly and helps ensure you get the most for your house. A knowledgeable agent can help you set the right price – one that attracts buyers and maximizes your return. Agents also handle the legwork involved in selling a home, from effectively marketing your house to negotiating with the buyer’s agent and facilitating the closing.

Finally, be patient. "We’re again seeing cases of bidding wars in some markets," Kelly says. "With fewer homes on the market in many areas of the country, it’s possible you could receive multiple offers. It may pay to take a "wait-and-see" attitude toward the first offer. Patience may garner you multiple offers and a better chance of getting your asking price."

If you’re buying

Greater competition in a seller’s market requires buyers to be able to move quickly and decisively. Before you begin home shopping, make a list of must-haves and want-to-haves. This list will help your agent narrow down the homes you’ll be looking at.

Also, get pre-approved for a mortgage. "There’s no worse feeling than watching your dream home slip through your fingers because your financing fell through, or because another bidder had a guarantee of financing and you did not," Kelly says.

While no one wants to pay more than they absolutely must, remember that in a seller’s market homeowners may receive multiple offers. If your initial bid is too low, you may find yourself quickly out of the running.

Also, be flexible on closing dates – often, sellers like sooner rather than later. And avoid placing too many contingencies on an offer. Working with a buyer’s agent can help you tailor an offer that will appeal to the seller as cost-effectively as possible. An agent will also be able to help you secure information on schools, entertainment, amenities and safety in communities you’re considering.

For more advice on buying and selling homes, finding an agent, and listings of homes in your area, visit www.remax.com.

Americans' top 10 legal needs [Infographic]

1/22/2013

Every day, working Americans with a long track record of excellent performance begin exhibiting signs of increased absenteeism and lower productivity on the job. What is causing these issues? Surprisingly, many times the problems at work aren’t even work-related. Instead, personal legal life events – such as family or financial concerns – are creating stress, occupying time and attention, and making it more difficult to be fully focused. ARAG’s Legal Town infographic illustrates Americans’ top 10 legal needs, and tells you how to address these issues with the help of a legal plan.

Tips for parents to protect kids from cyber bullying

4/22/2013

(BPT) - Bullying has been present in schools since society started educating children in groups. In the old days, the bully’s weapons of intimidation might have been simply stealing another child’s lunch money, or shoving a victim down on the playground. Modern bullying is a high-tech type of antagonism – one that can reach a dangerous level.

Cyber bullying is the use of technology and information by a minor to torment, threaten, harass, embarrass and otherwise humiliate another child. The Internet, social networking sites, cell phones and other digital and interactive technologies are used to take the bully's message to a greater audience than ever before, giving them more power to leave their victims humiliated on a global scale.

"In many ways, it is much easier to bully online than in person," says Dr. Mirjam Quinn, assistant professor of clinical psychology at Argosy University, Chicago. "Bullies can reach a large audience online. There is less, if any, adult supervision governing online behavior and the Internet provides a - sometimes false - sense of anonymity that may lead individuals to behave more aggressively than they would in real life. It is also easier to dehumanize a victim online; since the bully doesn't see the victim's immediate emotional reaction, it’s easier to ignore the emotional impact."

"Victims who experience cyber bullying reveal that they were afraid or embarrassed to go to school,” says Greg Craddock, an academic department director at The Art Institute of Indianapolis. “In addition, research has revealed a link between cyber bullying and low self-esteem, family problems, academic problems, school violence and delinquent behavior. Cyber-bullied youth also report having suicidal thoughts, and there have been a number of examples in the United States where youth who were victimized ended up taking their own lives."

How do your protect your kids? Set appropriate boundaries and monitor their activity.

"The Internet really isn't as anonymous as it seems - it is very much real life," says Quinn. "Your parenting rules in real life can and should very much inform the decisions you make about parenting rules regarding cell phone and Internet use."

"It is important that you have access to the technology your child uses the most," says Craddock. “If your child has a cell phone, you should communicate that you can and will monitor the text messages that are received and sent.”

"It's not a matter of privacy invasion, but of being a parent active in the life of your child," Craddock adds. "Parents should look at and set privacy settings on the sites their children are using. They should also have a list of user accounts that a child has created on the Web, along with the passwords."

Both Craddock and Quinn encourage parents to talk to their kids about appropriate behavior online. Teach them to never post something on the Internet or send a text message that they wouldn't say to a parent or family member.

"Once you send a message or an image out into the world via the Internet or text message, you have no control over where it goes and who will receive it," says Craddock. "Assume that anything posted can, and often will, be made public. If you don't post anything disrespectful, irresponsible or vulgar, then you don't have to worry about who is viewing it."

“Most schools have policies about bullying and a growing number are necessarily instituting them specific to cyber bullying. It is important for parents to review these policies with their children so that both understand what cyber bullying is, what can and should be done about it at the school level and what the consequences are for those who commit it,” says Craddock.

"If bullying ever crosses the line into intimidation or sexual harassment, or affects your child's ability to feel safe when she is around the bully, then the other child's parents, the school, community leaders and (depending on the severity of the situation) the police should be contacted immediately,” says Quinn. “Your child may initially become angry with you for 'overreacting,' but you are doing the right thing by showing him that you will take care of him and keep him safe no matter what."

As housing market warms, keep these buying tips in mind

2/27/2013

(BPT) - Ready to buy your first home, or move up to a larger home for your expanding family?

Home sales seem to be finally warming up after a five-year chill, as demand gradually builds among first-time homebuyers and existing homeowners seeking more room. Historically low mortgage rates, rising rents and relatively positive economic indicators are enhancing consumer confidence and driving the trend, according to the National Association of Realtors (NAR).

As demand grows, home prices for a median existing home are expected to rise as much as 5 percent nationwide in 2013, according to the NAR. This should encourage existing homeowners who’ve been patiently sitting on the sidelines to consider putting their homes on the market.

Even though the outlook is looking brighter, Daniel Watkins, an attorney who specializes in real estate law at the Watkins Firm, APC in San Diego, says the hurdles to buying a home in today’s market are significantly higher than they were a few years ago.

“The big hurdle is financing. Expectations among lenders and sellers are a lot higher today,” Watkins says. “If you’re serious about buying a home, you need to have a sizeable down payment, a good credit score, low debt and a solid track record of employment to qualify for a loan.”

Lenders are paying close attention to buyers’ ability to repay a loan, according to FindLaw.com, the nation’s leading legal information website. The generally accepted principle is that no more than 30 percent of a household’s take-home income should go toward the principal, interest, taxes and insurance.

Here are some tips from FindLaw.com about buying a home within the next six to nine months:

Start planning now. Even if you’re a year or more away from buying a home, start preparing now. Build up your cash for a down payment plus other expenses that come with owning a home. Check your credit report for accuracy. Pay all your bills on time and zero out all credit card debt. And don’t take on new debt, like a large car payment.

Get a pre-approval letter. Home sellers want to know that you can get a loan to buy their home. It’s OK to window shop, but don’t make any offers unless you are certain you can obtain financing. After shopping around for a financial institution, get pre-approved for a home mortgage. Showing a seller a pre-approval letter will increase your chances of your offer being accepted. And don’t be surprised if the seller or his real estate agent contacts your loan officer to verify that you’ve been pre-approved.

Build a strong buying position. As the home market warms up, bidding wars will become more common. However, the highest bid doesn’t always win in today’s housing market. Instead, home sellers want to know the deal will go through with smooth sailing. So, today, the highest value is being placed on non-contingent offers (not contingent on the sale of your home), pre-approved financing, higher-than-normal earnest money deposit and personalized bids (share with the seller why the home would be a perfect match for you and your family).

Get a lawyer. In some states, the law requires that a real estate attorney be part of the process of making an offer and reviewing loan documents as part of the closing, according to FindLaw.com. Where a real estate attorney isn’t required, buyers and sellers should consider seeking legal assistance for relatively more complicated real estate transactions, such as purchasing a property directly from the homeowner, the purchase of a rental property, a short sale or the purchase of a foreclosed property.

Learn about the neighborhood. When you buy a home, you’re also buying into a community. Start your home search by first targeting a neighborhood where you want to live. Avoid neighborhoods where homes are not being kept up, or yards are full of old cars and junk. Check out the schools, too. Great schools attract families, and keep up home values. Avoid busy streets, homes under flight patterns or near railroad tracks. And contact the local police department for crime statistics and the location of nearby sex offenders.

Keep your emotions in check. If you’ve found a home you like, don’t fall in love with it yet. Make sure your offer is contingent upon a satisfactory home inspection conducted by an inspector that you hire (not the seller).

Save some extra money. Whether you’re buying your first home or your third, moving and getting a household established can cost more than you anticipated. Make sure you save enough extra money to redecorate your new home to fit your lifestyle, and to pay for unexpected repairs.

To get more information about buying a home, visit www.findlaw.com.

Honeymoon encore: The big move in

3/20/2013

(BPT) - It may come as a surprise to young engaged couples, but the excitement of the wedding and honeymoon doesn’t end when it’s all over. In fact, after the honeymoon, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and plan the big move – the joining of two households.

It’s a herculean task finding the perfect location with great schools, affordable taxes and good neighbors. But once you’ve signed on the dotted line for the home where you will begin your life as a couple – and maybe also raise your family when the time arrives – you’re ready to plan your big move.

Many newlyweds face the chore of merging furniture, kitchen equipment and closet space from two households. To start your moving process off on the right foot, consider eliminating duplicate items and having a garage sale, or donating items, before beginning the packing process. It’s a great chance to upgrade household furnishings – especially if you received something new as a wedding gift.

Then determine what size moving truck you’ll need. A good rule is to plan for 150 cubic feet of space for every fully furnished room. Many young couples moving from a small apartment or condo into a larger first home will find a 12- or 16-foot Penske rental truck more than adequate. Plan to reserve your truck at least two weeks in advance. Penske Truck Rental offers rental discounts for AAA members to help young couples with savings.

For help in making moving day go smoothly, use these tips from Penske. They’ve been in the do-it-yourself moving business for more than 40 years:

* Still unpacking your wedding gifts? – If space isn’t a concern, keep those wedding gifts in their original boxes, because the store packaging will help protect the items. But if space is tight in the rental truck, throw away the store packaging and carefully repack in your moving boxes – with plenty of padding to protect your new gifts.

* Start early and group items together – Get good, sturdy boxes of various sizes, and then fill them with items of similar use, size or design. Some traditional ways to group items are by item type (i.e. photo frames) or by contents of a room. Label each box with the room name, and the contents. Make sure you have plenty of packing bubbles or towels and cloths on hand to keep breakable items from being damaged in the move.

* Save your muscles – Ask friends to help you with carrying boxes. If something is heavy, enlist some help to prevent injury or strain on your muscles.

* Loading the truck – Load the largest items (i.e. bed, couch, dresser) into the truck first to ensure they will fit, and then start loading the heaviest boxes on the bottom and lighter boxes on top. Having each box labeled with contents will help prevent you and your friends from packing heavy books on top of your new fine china wedding gifts. Penske features an online Truck Wizard application to assist.

When you cross the threshold of your new home the first time as a married couple, you’ll be surrounded by the excitement and energy of so many adventures to come in your future. Carefully unpack your moving truck, cherishing the memories of your personal belongings as you meld them to fit into your new home and life with your new spouse.

Diet rich in nutrients promotes a lifetime of healthy vision

3/5/2013

(BPT) - From dry eye to age-related eye diseases, research shows that nutrition plays a critical role in maintaining the health of our eyes. Caring for eyes includes looking carefully at what you eat.

Thirty million (or one out of four) Americans age 40 and older suffer from some level of vision loss. Yet only 30 percent of Americans indicate they incorporate specific foods or supplements into their diet to help improve eye health and vision, according to the American Optometric Association’s American Eye-Q survey, which assesses public knowledge and understanding of a wide range of issues related to eye and visual health.

Six nutrients – antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin; essential fatty acids; vitamins C and E; and the mineral zinc – have been identified as helping to protect eyesight and promote eye health. Since the body doesn’t make these nutrients naturally, it’s important to incorporate them into a daily diet and, in some cases, supplement with vitamins.

Consuming a variety of the following foods can help protect your eyes for the future:

1. Lutein and zeaxanthin: To help reduce your risk of developing age-related macular degeneration (AMD), eat one cup of colorful fruits and vegetables such as broccoli, spinach, kale, corn, green beans, peas, oranges and tangerines four times a week.

2. Essential fatty acids: Studies suggest omega-3 fatty acids such as flax or fleshy fish like tuna, salmon, or herring, whole grain foods, lean meats and eggs may help protect against AMD and dry eye.

3. Vitamin C: Fruits and vegetables, including oranges, grapefruit, strawberries, papaya, green peppers and tomatoes, can help minimize the risk of cataracts and AMD.

4. Vitamin E: Vegetable oils, such as safflower or corn oil, almonds, pecans, sweet potatoes, and sunflower seeds are powerful antioxidants that can slow the progression of AMD and cataract formation.

5. Zinc: A deficiency of zinc can result in poor night vision and lead to cataracts; therefore, consuming red meat, poultry, liver, shellfish, milk, baked beans, and whole grains on a daily basis is important.

It’s also important to remember that all foods are not created equal in their nutritional value. The Eye-Q survey also showed that nearly half of all Americans (49 percent) still believe carrots are the best food for eye health. While carrots do contain nutritional value by supplying beta-carotene, which is essential for night vision, spinach and other dark, leafy greens are the healthiest foods for eyes because they naturally contain large amounts of lutein and zeaxanthin.

The AOA encourages consumers to make small dietary changes in order to experience a big impact with vision. Another good way to monitor eye health and maintain good vision is by scheduling yearly, comprehensive eye exams with an eye doctor. For a list of quick and simple recipes that promote healthy eye sight and vision or to find an optometrist in your area, visit www.AOA.org.

Why a normal Pap test may not mean you are cancer-free

5/13/2013

(BPT) - Many women know that getting a Pap test regularly from their health care provider is a good way to check for signs of cervical cancer, the second most common cancer in women worldwide. What they might not know is that a “normal” Pap result does not necessarily mean they are cancer-free.

A recent study involving more than 800 patients in a large health care plan found that about one in three women with invasive cervical cancer actually had normal Pap test results. Other research suggests that a single Pap test can miss early signs of cervical cancer up to half the time.

While the Pap test is valuable, it does not always detect cancer cells early, when treatment is easiest and most effective. By the time a routine Pap test detects abnormal cell changes in the cervix, cervical pre-cancer may already be occurring.

As a result, the American Cancer Society and several medical groups now recommend that women between the ages of 30 and 65 be tested for certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV) – the main cause of cervical cancer – along with their Pap test.

Of the more than 100 types of HPV, the most common sexually transmitted infection, most are harmless and are cleared naturally by a person’s immune system. In fact, 70 to 90 percent of sexually active individuals will have some type of HPV at some point in their life. But a few types, known as high-risk HPV, can develop into cancer, sometimes decades after a person has been infected.

The two highest-risk types, HPV 16 and HPV 18, are responsible for two-thirds of all cervical cancer cases. So, if a woman does test positive for HPV, it’s important for her and her doctor to know which HPV type she has, to more fully understand her risk.

Advances in laboratory medicine now allow health care providers to screen women specifically for high-risk HPV types. By ordering a high-risk HPV test along with a Pap test, a doctor can find out more about a woman’s risk for cervical cancer. One test in particular, called the cobas HPV Test, gives health care providers individual results for HPV 16 and HPV 18, along with a grouped result for other high-risk HPV types, all in one test. A Pap and an HPV test can be done using the same sample, so all the information is available from just one office visit.

Coupling an HPV test with a Pap (co-testing) provides so much more valuable information about a woman’s risk for cervical cancer that several medical groups now say that women ages 30 to 65 only need to be co-tested every five years if neither test shows new abnormalities.

Although advances in medicine like HPV testing are enabling doctors to provide better care with less frequent testing, many women are still in the habit of having an annual Pap test, and it may be difficult to get used to the change. But there are still many reasons for women to continue their yearly OB/GYN or family physician wellness visits. Perhaps the most important one is that the goal of an annual exam has always been to do a comprehensive review of a woman’s health.

Even without the need for an annual Pap test, yearly well-woman visits are as important as ever for ovarian, uterine, breast, cardiovascular and sexual health, as well as for colon cancer screening, osteoporosis prevention and immunizations.

For women who are concerned about the cost of a yearly doctor visit, it may be helpful to know that annual well-woman visits and certain preventive care services are required to be covered by many insurance providers without a co-pay or deductible under the Affordable Care Act. For non-grandfathered plans, this applies to any new plan year that begins after August 1, 2012. This coverage requirement extends to HPV testing for women ages 30 to 65 as well.

National Women’s Health Week is May 12 to 18, the perfect reminder for women to schedule their annual exam if they haven’t done so yet. More information about Pap and HPV co-testing and knowing a woman’s risk for cervical cancer is available at www.facebook.com/PreventCervicalCancer.

Unsung heroes of cool [Infographic]

3/5/2013

Every night at clubs across the country, one thing stands in the way of getting past the velvet rope – the bouncer. Known for letting the cool people in, the work of these unsung heroes of nightlife is often underappreciated, with 68 percent of Americans agreeing.

What is the toughest part about working as a bouncer? Breaking up fights tops the list at 33 percent, closely followed by being surrounded by annoying people (32 percent).

To recognize these arbiters of cool, HALLS, with the powerful cooling effect of Mentho-Lyptus, which literally lets the cool in, is searching the country for America’s Coolest Bouncer. For more information, check out www.LetTheCoolIn.com.

Tech talk: Understanding 'the cloud' and what it can do for you

4/11/2013

(BPT) - News headlines, commercials and chatter between colleagues – recently there has been a lot of hype around “the cloud,” but the term can be complex and confusing. What exactly is the cloud, and furthermore, what does it mean for you and the way you use technology? Although the concept feels relatively new, it’s simpler than you may think.

You’ve probably heard a lot about storing and sharing information on the cloud, but did you know there’s a good chance you’re already utilizing the cloud regularly without even knowing it? Every time you check or send an email online, you’re sending information through the cloud, in other words, through a network of servers, software and services in a remote location.

Much like connecting your television to a cable connection, you connect your tech device to the Internet to access content stored in the cloud. When you use cloud storage, what you can do with your technology devices – from desktop to tablet to smartphone – expands greatly.

The cloud isn’t just for tech elites – it can make life easier no matter how tech-savvy you are. Whether you’re heading a global conglomerate or are simply the head of your kid’s soccer team, the cloud can help streamline what you need to do online. Beyond checking email, the cloud lets you work with other people online with documents that can be edited simultaneously, store large files so you don’t have to keep them on hand, and easily access and share important photos and personal documents, like travel plans.

There are two simple ways you can start seeing the many benefits of the cloud immediately. First, personal cloud email services make staying in touch with friends, family, and professional contacts easy. Is it time you upgraded your email experience? Outlook.com is a free, personal email service from Microsoft that has tools to keep your email streamlined.

With Outlook.com you can access easy-to-use, automated tools to help you get through your inbox quickly. Set up your preferences that mirror how you live your life: bills can automatically go in one folder, important documents archived in another. You can even “sweep” out all of your old daily deals or newsletters with just a few clicks.

Spend a lot of time on Facebook, Twitter or other social media websites? Outlook.com works with your favorite social media sites. You can add contacts from your Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and other networks, so that changes like address updates in those accounts are automatically updated. You can save time and energy by chatting, updating, and even posting comments or accepting friend requests in a few clicks all from your inbox.

The second way you can experience instant benefits from the cloud is through a personal cloud storage service. Microsoft’s SkyDrive provides 7 GB of free storage which is more than what most competitors offer, and additional storage is available at rates that are also lower than most competitors. Outlook.com and SkyDrive work together, and SkyDrive works with your smartphone, tablet, PC, or Mac, so you have access to your photos, documents, and other important files anytime, anywhere, automatically.

Do you ever have a ton of photos you want to email to a friend, but you can’t because the files are too large to send all in one email? Or sometimes you just want to share those photos with specific people instead of to everyone on Facebook. Just upload the photos to SkyDrive and email the link to the people you choose! You can share photos beautifully only with the people you choose, without taking up space in their inboxes.

Another invaluable benefit to personal cloud storage services is the ability to work with others on projects from anywhere at any time. With SkyDrive, you get free Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and OneNote in your browser, so multiple people in different places can work on the same document, at the same time. Plus, you get to choose who can view and edit these documents.

No matter how simple or complex your computing needs, the cloud can help keep you more organized, save time, save space in your inbox or on your desktop, and sometimes it just plain saves you from losing an important document or email. Learn more about how the cloud can change the way you use technology by visiting www.outlook.com and www.skydrive.com.

Stop your relationship rut: 3 simple steps to a fresh start this Valentine's Day

1/29/2013

(BPT) - Feeling like you’re in a relationship rut? You’re not alone. Whether you’re single or married, getting stuck in a routine may be normal, but that’s no excuse to keep on down the same path. Take control of your love life and break out of your relationship habits. Relationship expert and author of “Cheat On Your Husband With Your Husband,” Andrea Syrtash, shares three simple steps to help you identify your patterns, make small changes and ultimately decide if this is the right relationship for you.

* Identify the patterns.

If you want new results in love, you have to do things - and date - differently. Once you’ve identified your habits, it will be much easier to steer clear of any ruts.

The first step is to look at your pattern. If you don’t know what your relationship pattern is, consider this: If your dating life were a movie - what would it be called? How would it begin and end? What character do you always play? You’ll start to see some themes.

We all get into patterns in our relationships and often expect things to get better without changing our ways. It’s like using the same search engine day in and day out and expecting better results. We do things because we’ve always done them; but as Einstein said, the definition of insanity is doing the same thing and expecting different results. Branch out and give Bing a try this Valentine’s Day to see if it’s your perfect match.

* Make small changes.

With step one under your belt, it’s time to take action. Advanced Valentine’s Day planning can go a long way in showing your love and affection. Not putting in the thought to pre-plan, forgetting the card, buying drugstore gifts on the way home from work, and thinking that Valentine’s Day doesn’t matter (if it doesn’t matter to both of you that’s one thing ... but if it matters to one of you, it should be acknowledged) puts a strain on your relationship, whether or not you realize it at the time.

Planning ahead seems like a daunting task, but it is easier than you think. Take it one step at a time, and lean on the various online resources available that make planning simple. Use Bing to get ahead this Valentine’s Day to quickly find flowers, book dinner reservations and buy tickets for a romantic movie all in one place.

* Move forward.

A surprising one in 10 people admit to having broken up with someone on Valentine’s Day, according to a recent survey by Bing and Impulse. If making a few small adjustments isn’t changing your relationship patterns, give some thought to if you’re in a healthy relationship or if it’s time to break it off. Don’t just think about the person you’re with, think about the person you are when you’re with your significant other. That will tell you everything you need to know. If you’re usually cool and you’re crazy or insecure with someone, they’re not your match. You deserve to be happy, and if that means it’s time for a change, than embrace it.

Trying something new may lead you to a better alternative you never knew existed. Use this Valentine’s Day as an opportunity to start fresh. Whether you are working on making the small changes that matter, or deciding to part ways, don’t let your relationship continue along in the same rut. There’s no better time than the present.

Taking the intimidation out of saving for retirement

3/20/2013

(BPT) - Saving for retirement is a scary prospect for many Americans. In fact, just 14 percent feel confident they will have enough money to live on when they retire, according to the 2012 Retirement Confidence Survey by the Employee Benefit Research Institute. And 60 percent say they have less than $25,000 saved for retirement, the survey reveals.

Retirement planning and saving doesn’t have to be frightening or fruitless. Knowledge is power, and when it comes to preparing financially for retirement, the more you know, the more likely you are to succeed – and feel secure about your future in your golden years.

How much is enough?

Uncertainty over how much they need to save is a big concern among workers. Thirty-four percent of Americans have no retirement savings at all, according to a poll by Harris Interactive. How much you need to save now in order to have a good life when you retire depends on many factors, including your current income and age, the age at which you plan to retire and the expenses you anticipate you’ll face during retirement.

Fortunately, retirement calculators can help you get a better picture of how much you need to save. You’ll find plenty of calculators and information about saving for retirement from resources like freecreditscore.com. The calculators can give you an idea of how much income you’ll need from investments to live on during retirement, and how much of your current income you need to save between now and retirement.

Crunching credit numbers

Another important consideration is how you will interact with credit when you retire. It’s important to manage credit wisely during retirement, just as it is throughout your adult life.

Studies show that many Americans don’t regularly monitor their credit, which can be a costly mistake. In fact, 65 percent of Americans have not ordered a copy of their credit report within the past year, and 31 percent don’t know their credit score, according to the National Foundation for Credit Counseling’s Financial Literacy Survey.

Your credit report and score are important during retirement for a number of reasons. First, your score directly affects the cost of many important financial needs, such as auto insurance and interest rates. Also, while you should strive to minimize debt during retirement, it may not be practical – or even desirable – to completely eliminate credit use in your golden years. Finally, not keeping an eye on your credit report and score may mean you fail to quickly catch instances of fraud or identity theft. Senior citizens are often a favorite target for identity thieves and scammers.

Understanding your credit – leading up to retirement and during – should be a key part of your retirement planning. Websites like freecreditscore.com can help by offering enrolled members monthly statements, credit reports, credit score alerts, identity protection alerts and fraud resolution support.

Understanding your Social Security benefits

Too often, people planning for retirement either rely too much on Social Security or overlook it altogether. Neither route is best. It makes sense to incorporate Social Security as part of your overall retirement saving plan, as long as you understand what to expect from the program.

The Social Security Administration provides every taxpayer with statements about how much they can expect to receive when they retire. Your SSA statement is now available online. Simply log on to www.socialsecurity.gov/myaccount for an estimate of the amount of Social Security benefits you could receive upon retiring. Knowing how much you can expect from Social Security can help you plan your retirement savings strategies.

Saving for retirement doesn’t have to be intimidating. It’s never too late – or too early – to take control of your retirement savings goals.

Don't miss a beat this college basketball season

3/18/2013

(BPT) - The college basketball tournament is one of the most exciting times of the year for basketball fans across the country, so much so that workplace productivity takes a nosedive.

According to a survey by MSN and Impulse Research, 30 percent of people spend three hours or more per day following the tournament during work – that’s almost half of the average work day! Whether you’re watching from your desk or from your couch, the following tips can help you stay in the know this season and help make you the MVP among your friends and co-workers.

Get social. Follow your favorite players and teams on social networks such as Twitter, and check out tournament hashtags to join the conversation around the top teams, best plays and latest wins or losses. Hot news often breaks on social media before it hits the presses, so keep a finger on the pulse of social networks to get the news first.

Speed things up. If you’re going to spend three hours or more following the tournament each day, saving time is critical. On average, people lose one day of life per year waiting for Web pages to load, and during the college basketball season, there’s no time to waste! According to a study by Principal Technologies, Inc., Sports on MSN for Windows 8 is seven times faster, on average, than the top four major online sports sites, making it a quick, easy way to get all your tournament news. Who knows, you may even be able to squeeze in another game with all the time you’ll save.

Stay connected. Why follow one game at a time, when you can follow multiple? One third of people have their laptops by their side as they watch the college basketball tournament games at home, so they can keep up on all the excitement. If you don’t want to miss a beat this season, do as the sports gurus do and set up a multiscreen experience. While you’re watching one game on TV, visit MSN.FOXSports.com on your laptop so you don’t miss a thing.

Download tournament apps. On the go? Download various tournament applications for your phone or tablet to watch games on the go, share your bracket, and chat with other passionate fans. You can even set alerts on your phone to send you a reminder when a game is about to start or a score update when there are just a few minutes left in the game to prevent any games from falling off your radar.

With these quick and easy tips, you’re sure to stay in the know whether you are at home, work or somewhere in between. Give them a shot and you’ll be ahead of the game.

How to support your friend in a split

5/2/2013

(BPT) - When a marriage ends in divorce, it’s not just the couple who is involved. Friends and family members are also part of the process and often play many different parts – from objective confidant to reliable “vent-ee.” If you’re suddenly or unexpectedly thrown into this role, what help are you prepared to offer? Support can make a critical difference to your friend, but unfortunately, doesn’t come with how-to manual.

As the supporter of a friend going through a divorce, you may feel like you need a support group of your own. The blog, “Support in a Split,” found at www.supportinasplit.com, gives the average person basic tools to help their friends make it through divorce. Sponsored by ARAG, a global provider of legal insurance products and services, the blog provides lists, stories and real-life strategies to help people help their friends or family navigate divorce.

Whether your friends have just announced they’re going through some trials in their marriage or their divorce has been finalized after lengthy legal proceedings, you’re going to be there with them on every stage of the journey. If the journey ventures into topics you aren’t fully versed in, visit Support in a Split for background information on topics ranging from exercise routines, redecorating, entering the dating world, co-parenting and seeking professional therapists and attorneys.

For example, if your friend expresses concern about his or her marriage, encourage professional help to resolve differences. Or advise your friend to find an attorney if a resolution isn’t possible. Additionally, recommend your friend enroll in a legal plan to save money on legal fees in situations like divorce, creating a will or settling a dispute with a contractor. Many leading employers offer legal insurance and services as part of their benefits package. Recent ARAG research shows that members of a legal plan know where to turn when faced with a legal issue so therefore they are much less stressed than those without a legal plan.

When the divorce is finalized, your friendship will be needed to help your newly single friend get back on his or her feet. Sometimes divorce is viewed as liberating, while other times it can cause depression. Providing a supporting role can range from just listening and being around for the divorcee, to encouraging your friend to seek professional help and treatment for depression.

While helping a friend or loved one through a divorce is not easy, having knowledge and showing compassion can strengthen your bond with those affected. To better understand what you can do to support a friend going through a breakup, visit www.supportinasplit.com. And be prepared – situations change due to life-changing events like divorce, but that doesn’t necessarily mean your relationship has to change.

Tips for avoiding costly errors on your tax return

2/1/2013

(BPT) - Making mistakes is one of Americans’ biggest fears at tax time. A single error can delay the processing of your return or even cause it to be rejected by the IRS. If that happens and you’re entitled to a refund, get ready to wait.

Today’s sophisticated tax preparation products make doing your own taxes perfect the first time at an affordable price – or even free – a reality for millions of Americans each year.

“Online and downloadable solutions have everything the vast majority of taxpayers need to file their taxes with complete confidence,” says Jessi Dolmage, TaxACT Spokesperson. "Using do-it-yourself tax preparation software solutions drastically reduces the chance of errors, especially if you import last year's return information.”

If you’re doing your own taxes for the first time this year or aren’t able to import last year’s return, be especially careful to avoid these common errors.

*Every year, the IRS receives millions of returns with misspelled names and incorrect Social Security Numbers (SSN), particularly those of dependents. When processing your return, the IRS verifies names and SSNs on your return with the Social Security Administration's database. If the information doesn’t match, the IRS will notify you. Although the errors are easy to correct, they could delay refundable credits for parents and college students, and refunds for the Earned Income Tax Credit.

*Report all your income. The IRS can easily check how much income you received based on your SSN and 1099 forms financial institutions are required to submit. If unreported income is discovered after the filing deadline, you could owe penalties and interest on the earnings.

*Because filing status determines many amounts on tax returns, the IRS has strict qualifying criteria for each of the five filing statuses. If you don’t meet all the requirements for the filing status claimed on your return, the IRS could reject your return. If you qualify for more than one status, claim the one resulting in the bigger refund or less tax owed. See IRS Publication 501, Exemptions, Standard Deduction and Filing Information, for detailed information about filing statuses. Tax preparation programs simplify it all by guiding you through your options and helping you choose.

*Whether you’re receiving a refund or owe taxes, double check the routing and account numbers on your return. One incorrect number can mean several extra weeks of waiting for your refund, someone else receiving your refund, or your refund being sent back to the IRS.

*With hundreds of deductions and credits available for the taking, it’s easy to miss one. The onus is on you as the taxpayer, not the IRS, to claim all the tax breaks you qualify for. Dolmage says that’s one of the key advantages of using tax preparation solutions. "The program walks you through each credit and deduction to help you get the biggest possible refund," says Dolmage. "All you have to do is answer simple questions."

*Finally, file your tax return and pay any taxes owed by the April 15 deadline. If you need more time to file your return, file Form 4868 for an automatic six-month filing extension. However, keep in mind you’re still obligated to pay any taxes owed by April 15. Pay late and you’ll incur penalties and interest fees.

Dolmage also says, "Another all-too-common mistake is paying too much to do your taxes. Expensive solutions don't equate to a larger refund. All taxpayers can prepare, print and e-file federal tax returns free at www.taxact.com – no restrictions, no bait and switch."

TaxACT Free Federal Edition includes all e-fileable forms for simple and complicated tax returns. Regardless of how you filed last year, you can transfer data from last year's return. Instant, personalized help is available every step of the way in the Answer Center, online at taxact.com and with Audit Assistant. Customers can also email tax and audit questions to TaxPayer Support Specialists for free answers.

More tax tips are available at www.irs.gov. To learn more about TaxACT and start your free federal return, visit www.taxact.com.

Do's and don'ts of shopping for dads and grads

5/17/2013

(BPT) - Father’s Day and graduations are coming up, and that means you’ll have to think of appropriate gifts for these heralded champions. You don’t need to spend a fortune to make gift recipients happy, all you do need to do is put some thought into their presents. A few tips and tricks will help you pick out a gift the recipient is sure to love.

Here are some do’s and don’ts for shopping for dads and grads:

Do:

* Know what Dad enjoys. Does he like to cook? To read? Enjoy a specific sports team? It’s easier to buy a gift he’ll enjoy when you tailor it to his tastes.

* Consider giving your grad cash. Whether he or she is graduating from high school or college, there will be late-night pizza needs that pop up, and that money is sure to come in handy.

* Check your area for unique experiences. Being a tourist in your hometown can be easier than you think - whether it’s a trip to a local street fair, a specialty beer tasting at nearby watering hole, or even an afternoon at the ball game, sometimes sharing the experience can be the best gift.

* Spread your gift out through the whole year with a subscription to Netflix for Dad’s movie obsession, Hulu Plus for TV-lovers or Pandora for your grad with a music library that rivals Billboard’s Hot 100. Almost all online streaming devices from TVs to Blu-ray players and even a sound bar from LG can give him access to his subscription.

*Grads would love a place to plug in their music, and a docking station is perfect for everything from visiting a friend’s dorm room to just lounging around the apartment. With the ability to wirelessly stream from both iPhones and Androids, LG’s dual docking station can play from any phone in the area and keep them charged in the meantime.

Don’t:

* Buy Dad a tie. Beyond being cliche, with today’s casual workplace, he probably has more than enough already. Nothing says “forced smile” like a tie.

* Buy your grads gift card for specific stores. By now, they’ve got their own flair and style, and you’ll run the risk of missing the mark. Best to throw a cash card or two in the mix, and call it the “gift of shopping.”

* Give your grad the customary graduation pen – it will be “lost” or act as the resident paper weight until he/she moves out.

* Buy exercise equipment unless you know it will be used. Just because you think Dad should start exercising, doesn’t mean he shares your enthusiasm – and you’re implying he needs to lose weight (not what he wants to hear).

* Skimp on technology. It changes quickly – that’s why stores have those clearance tables. No need to break the bank, but don’t buy something that’s outdated the moment you walk out of the store.

Regardless of what you give a grad or Dad, she or he will appreciate it the most when your gift comes from your heart.

Simple tips to save water, money and the environment

3/27/2013

(BPT) - There are a number of ways to save water and they all start with you. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the average American uses about 50 gallons of water per day at home. That means a family of four uses approximately 6,000 gallons a month. The following tips can help you save water, money and the environment.

1. How to be green and clean your driving machine

Keeping your car clean with regular washing is an important part of responsible maintenance, but washing at home with a garden hose can use more than 60 gallons in as little as five minutes. Furthermore, you’re putting harmful chemicals and detergents down drains and directly into your city’s water supply.

You may be surprised to learn there is a greener way to keep your car sparkling: a professional car wash. A common misconception is that professional car washes waste water, when in fact the opposite is true. WaterSavers professional car washes, for example, use an average of no more than 40 gallons of fresh water per vehicle – less than the average home washing machine, which uses 41 gallons per load, according to the EPA. According to the International Carwash Association(R), professional car washes also responsibly dispose of – and in many cases recycle and re-use – the water runoff. For more information, visit WashWithWaterSavers.com.

2. Go green and keep your whites white

It’s easy to take steps to conserve H2O and keep your wardrobe fresh. First, only run the clothes washer when you have a full load. Make this habit for both your clothes washer and dishwasher, and you could save up to 1,000 gallons of water a month, according to Wateruseitwisely.com.

You get extra green points if you use cold water when washing your clothes. Approximately 86 percent of the energy used by washing machines is for heating the water. Washing with cold water eliminates 1,600 pounds of carbon dioxide emissions each year from just one household, according to the Sierra Club.

3. Break bad bathroom habits

Bathrooms are water hogs, accounting for about 75 percent of a home’s water usage. Adopting a green mindset in the bathroom can save major water and money. Start by switching to a low-flow showerhead, which National Geographic says saves 15 gallons of water during a 10-minute shower. Keep the occasional bath for a special treat because the average tub takes about 70 gallons to fill, so showers are much more efficient.

Toilets are another major water-waster. The current federal standard is 1.6 gallons of water per flush, so if you have an older toilet, it’s time to upgrade. By replacing old toilets with WaterSense-labeled models, the average family reduces water used for toilets by 20 to 60 percent, or about 13,000 gallons of water and $110 in water costs per year.

4. Water down the drain

When washing dishes by hand, don't let the water run while rinsing. Fill one sink with wash water and the other with rinse water. And for cold drinks, keep a pitcher of water in the refrigerator instead of running the tap. This way, every drop goes down you and not the drain.

When watering your lawn or garden, it’s best to do so in the morning or evening when temperatures are cooler to minimize evaporation. Also be sure to adjust sprinklers so only your lawn is watered and not the house, sidewalk or street. Be sure to monitor your water bill for unusually high use. Your bill and water meter are tools that can help you discover leaks.

These simple tips can help you green your household in just minutes. Not only are you helping Mother Earth, you’ll be saving money too.

Naval ROTC pays for college and guarantees a career following graduation

5/2/2013

(BPT) - College students interested in the Navy can focus on their academic careers while eliminating much of the financial burden of paying for school. With more than 160 colleges and universities across the United States offering Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps (NROTC) programs, students have many opportunities to finish a degree without going into overwhelming debt and have a career as a Navy Officer ready and waiting upon graduation.

Most NROTC units are only a part-time commitment during a student’s course of study at a university or college. NROTC offers up to $180,000 for tuition, with additional educational and lab fees covered. Students who enroll also receive a stipend for text books and living expenses each month, which increases each year the student is in school. With these expenses covered, NROTC students can make the most of their college experience by keeping their focus on academics, hobbies, and having the flexibility to pursue intramurals or spend time with friends rather than having to work to pay for tuition and board.

Students enrolled in NROTC also gain valuable leadership skills. Community service projects, Navy drills, and Naval Science courses are just a few of the activities that help prepare students to become respected Navy Officers. Additionally, Summer Cruise Training gives NROTC students an opportunity to shadow Navy Officers and gain invaluable on-the-job experience. These might include assignments on a nuclear submarine or nuclear surface vessel; training with a Navy aviator, which could include flight time; and training with navies of other countries in foreign exchange.

Upon graduation, careers in the Navy can take Sailors around the world and provide them with opportunities not available anywhere else. A vast array of career opportunities across skill sets are available as a Sailor. Just a few of the skilled professions available include nuclear propulsion, aviation, civil engineering, computer engineering and Nurse Corps. In addition, Sailors have access to Navy-funded continuing education programs to further their training and degrees.

Application to NROTC can begin during the second semester of a student’s junior year of high school. Future Sailors must adhere to strict moral, physical and academic standards, and students who meet the following requirements are encouraged to enroll in NROTC:

* U.S. citizenship

* Willingness to bear arms

* Be a high school graduate or have an equivalent certificate

* Be between the ages of 17 and 23 by enrollment, and under the age of 27 by graduation

* Pass a physical exam

* Have fewer than 30 semester or 45 quarter hours of college credit upon application

* Commit to serve for a minimum of five years (four years for nurses)

Naval ROTC provides students with career options upon graduation and helps make a college education – as well as further training – financially feasible. To learn more, visit navy.com.

Solid retirement planning a must for Generations X and Y

3/27/2013

(BPT) - When it comes to making plans for retirement years, today’s younger workers are struggling to make heads or tails of all the resources and products available to them through work and personal investments. Younger professionals who fit into the Gen X and Gen Y categories also are not taking advantage of financial professionals, who can provide information and education on planning for a secure retirement, according to 2013 research by LIMRA, a research, consulting and professional development organization.

Such lack of financial acumen is a challenge for young adults who face a challenging job market as many continue to struggle paying back student loans and establishing both short and long term savings while balancing the needs of their growing families.

Working with a trusted financial professional should be a priority for Gen X and Gen Y members, says Jeff Duncan, a financial professional with Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company (MassMutual) who concentrates his practice in planning for retirement.

“As the younger generations approach retirement age, a lot of the benefits their parents and grandparents enjoyed like pensions and company-sponsored retirement plans likely won’t be available any more. This will result in members of these generations having to rely on their own personal savings if they want to retire,” Duncan said.

Only one in five Gen X and Gen Y consumers work with a financial professional, according to the LIMRA research. LIMRA also found that younger professionals with access to a retirement plan through their employment were more likely to participate in the plan if they were knowledgeable about financial products.

Tom Henske, a financial professional in New York and author of a weekly news column Money-Smart Kids, believes members of both Gen X and Gen Y can take positive steps toward planning for a better financial future with a few simple steps:

1. Educate yourself with a trusted financial professional on different financial products and opportunities available to you, both via your benefits and retirement savings.

2. Understand what your work benefits can do for you, as well as areas that these benefits might not fully cover your future needs. Determine what opportunities exist to cover any gaps. Also be sure to take advantage of any “free” money offered by your employer. For example, a company may offer a 3 percent match payment to your 401(k) account if you contribute 6 percent.

3. Give yourself a good financial head start now by paying down debts and developing a long-term plan that includes emergency savings, retirement products to create additional income for when you won’t be bringing in a paycheck any longer as well as protection products like disability income insurance and life insurance.

4. Review and evaluate how well your strategy fits your current and planned future lifestyles once a year.

5. Pass on your education and lead by example. Demonstrate to your children how you take responsibility preparing for retirement. You can demonstrate this in several ways. For younger children, educate them on the importance of paying bills on time – try playing a game of pretend bank. For older children, discuss savings accounts and properly using these accounts. And for young adult children, ask them what actions they’re taking now to plan for their financial future.

“Because people in Gen X and Gen Y will likely fund their retirements via savings, it’s extremely important for them to understand what actions they can take to put themselves in a better financial position, while also taking advantage of any savings tools through employment benefits and retirement savings,” says Henske.

Help your pet shed unhealthy weight

5/16/2013

(BPT) - Are you killing your pet with kindness? We’re not talking about the compassion that motivates us to vaccinate our pets, or keep them warm in cold weather. Kindness that can be harmful to pets comes in the form of an overabundance of food and treats. The all-too-common result is a pet that becomes overweight or even obese.

A 2012 survey conducted by the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention found 52.5 percent of dogs and 58.3 percent of cats to be overweight or obese by their veterinarian. This translates to nearly 80 million dogs and cats in America with a weight problem. Dr. George Banta, chair of the Veterinary Technology department at Brown Mackie College - Akron and Dr. Mary Jo Wagner, attending veterinarian at Argosy University, Twin Cities, offer useful information for pet owners.

How can you tell if your pet is overweight? “It’s not the number of pounds, it’s how the animal carries the weight,” says Banta. “The number on the Body Condition Score is more important than pounds.” The Body Condition Score offers a way to assess the condition of an animal, usually on a scale from one to five, taking into account height, weight, and relative proportions of muscle and fat.

With a little knowledge, you can use sight and touch to figure your pet’s general condition. “When looking down on a dog or cat from above,” says Banta, “the body should slim to a discernable waist. An animal is too thin if you can see the spine or ribs; however, you should be able to feel them beneath the fur.” An animal of ideal weight will also display a pelvic tuck when viewed from the side.

“Just like humans, when animals overeat, they face increased risk for health problems like diabetes, heart disease, gastrointestinal problems and cancer,” continues Banta. In fact, these risks also include a shortened life expectancy.

Many owners feed pets according to the manufacturer’s suggested amounts; however, this instruction may not be right for your pet. “These guidelines are meant to cover all animals of a certain weight range,” says Wagner. “An owner must consider the age and activity level of each pet. The more active they are, the more calories they will burn in a day.”

Metabolism rates vary in animals the same way they do in people. Metabolism is the body process in which food is broken down for energy; another factor that affects the amount of food a pet needs. Wagner advises owners to keep an eye on body condition to judge whether a pet is eating properly. “If your pet shows signs of being overweight, simply cut back the amount of food given at each meal. Then weigh the pet in two or three weeks to see if it has made a difference,” she says.

Choosing the right food for your pet is important as well. Different brands of pet food contain varying amounts of protein, fat, carbohydrates and calories. “As a general rule, young, active dogs need high protein food,” says Wagner. “Older dogs need higher fiber to keep the gastrointestinal (GI) tract moving.” Ingredients listed on the package appear in descending order of volume; the first item on the list is most abundant in the food.

Most of us love to give treats, but many of us don’t realize how many we offer each day. “A 40-pound dog is one quarter the size of a 160-pound person,” Wagner says. “They have smaller stomachs. Look at calories in everything your pet eats. After that, it’s simple math.”

“Table scraps are a definite no. Zip, zilch, nada,” says Banta. “They are not good for two reasons. First, foods like chocolate, caffeine, grapes and raisins can be toxic to dogs. Second, the high fat content associated with table scraps, especially holiday trimmings, can lead to the onset of acute pancreatitis, which can be fatal.”

He recommends offering a kibble of food or a carrot instead of a cookie. If you must give cookies, try breaking them in half. “Pets do enjoy treats as a reward; however, attention from you is also a reward. It’s important to praise animals. In some ways, spending time with them is better than a treat,” Wagner says.

Tips on how to use Craigslist safely and responsibly

4/8/2013

(BPT) - Need a bike to start getting into shape? Looking for a new job? Interested in renting a condo for that long-desired trip?

Every day, millions of Americans turn to Craigslist.org to buy and sell items, find jobs, meet other people or find a vacation property to rent. More than 60 million people use the website and view an estimated 100 million ads per month in the U.S. alone, according to the company.

As Craigslist has become one of the most well-known online marketplaces in the world, it’s also become a destination for criminals, according to FindLaw.com, the nation’s leading website for free legal information. Criminals use the site to scam individuals and conduct other criminal activity, ranging from armed robbery to prostitution.

Whether you’ve used Craigslist many times before or are a newbie to this online destination for trading and selling, here are some helpful tips from FindLaw.com to help you navigate Craigslist safely and responsibly:

If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. This is the No. 1 rule of Craigslist. Whether you’re seeking an item to purchase, hunting for a new job or looking for a place to rent, if it sounds like it’s too good of a deal, trust your instincts and avoid the seller.

Use a separate email account. Open up a free email account for Craigslist as a preventive measure to protect your privacy. Avoid using the email address you rely on for communicating with friends and family, or your work email.

Never share personal or financial information. If someone starts asking you personal questions about where you live and work, or your appearance, break off the communication, immediately. Don’t advertise your home address and avoid meeting at your home or office.

Always meet in a public place. Remember, you’re dealing with strangers. You don’t know who they are or what their motives are. To complete your transaction, meet during daylight hours in a public place with a lot of traffic, like a fast-food restaurant or a shopping mall. If it involves the exchange of a very valuable item, bring a friend who can witness the exchange, and always have your cell phone with you.

Don’t carry large amounts of cash. For purchases of $100 or more, it’s best to use a cashier’s check. If you’re the seller, don’t accept a personal check (in case of check forgery) and tell the buyer to come prepared with a cashier’s check or money order from his or her bank. If you’re the buyer, do not offer to go with the seller to an ATM or your bank to withdraw cash.

Avoid listings outside your local area. Craigslist was designed to facilitate local buying and selling. If you want to buy or sell something from someone in another state or country, it’s best to use another online service. Requests from a seller to wire funds from your checking account or to pay for shipping are potential signs of mail fraud.

Assume you’re buying “as is.” In other words, you’re purchasing the product or service in its current condition without refunds or returns. Because you’re not dealing with an established merchant or business, your only recourse to challenge a product or service with which you’re not happy is through small claims court. That’s why you should be knowledgeable about what you’re buying (or selling) and carefully inspect the product or service before exchanging money, or trading a product or service.

Keep current records. To a lot of people, buying and selling items on Craigslist seems a lot like a garage sale, only online. However, if you become a regular seller, then you should maintain records of your sales, expenses and profits. If your intention is to make a profit, then you should plan to report it.

To learn more about your legal rights and responsibilities, visit FindLaw.com.

Hiring pros for spring cleaning tasks? What to look for and what it should cost

2/21/2013

(BPT) - Some traditional spring cleaning tasks are easily accomplished on your own, like clearing out clutter or rearranging storage areas. Other important tasks such as cleaning air ducts or your carpets may require professional assistance – and that’s where things can get confusing.

When you hire a professional to handle a cleaning task, how do you know what he or she should be doing for the money you pay? For that matter, how do you know how much you should expect to pay? Here are some common spring cleaning and maintenance tasks that you might hire a professional to do – and some guidance for what these jobs should entail and cost.

Air duct cleaning/HVAC maintenance

Regular maintenance of your home’s heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems can help avoid costly break-downs, and keeping air ducts clean can improve air quality in your home. Concerns about HVAC contractors are among the top 10 most common complaints received by the Better Business Bureau.

Before you hire someone to clean your air ducts and service your HVAC systems, check their credentials with a credible organization like NADCA, the HVAC Inspection, Maintenance & Restoration Association. NADCA members carry general liability insurance, have at least one person on staff trained and certified as an Air Systems Cleaning Specialist, and clean and restore heating and cooling systems following the association’s guidelines.

A cleaning/maintenance inspection should include examination and cleaning of ductwork, including supply and air return ducts; cleaning of all supply registers, return air grilles and diffusers; cleaning of supply and return air plenums; and maintenance on various parts of the system. Check the NADCA website at www.nadca.com for a complete checklist of what a cleaning should entail. A typical cleaning should cost between $450 and $1,000 per system, depending on the services rendered, the size of the system, how easily accessible it is and how dirty it is, according to NADCA.

Window washing

Cleaning your home’s windows can have a dramatic impact on both the interior and exterior of the house, but it is a major project. If your home is large, you have a lot of windows and little time, hiring a professional may be the best way to get your windows cleaned. Look for companies with an established reputation. A typical window cleaning should include the inside and outside of all windows in the home, removal and cleaning of screens, and cleaning of all sills and tracks (which means they must open every window to fully clean it).

Most companies charge per pane and your total cost will vary based on many factors, including the number of windows in your home, how many are on upper floors and even your region of the country. Typically, however, you should expect to pay between $2 to $7 per pane, according to CostHelper.com.

Carpet cleaning

While you can rent a machine and shampoo your own carpets, cleaning rugs may be better left to a professional if you have particularly challenging stains, a lot of furniture to move or a material that requires special care. Typically, the cost of carpet cleaning is about 25 cents to 35 cents per square foot, according to The Carpet and Rug Institute (CRI).

Several factors will influence the final cost, including the size and number of rooms, your area of the country, how much furniture cleaners will have to move, and how badly soiled the carpet is. A typical cleaning should include vacuuming before cleaning by a technician with professional certifications for carpet cleaning, according to CRI.

Helping the brain use alternative fuel may ease symptoms of Alzheimer's

3/11/2013

(BPT) - Whether a patient faces a simple health problem, such as a head cold, or one as complex as Alzheimer’s disease, relieving the symptoms is often as important as resolving the issue itself. Yet for the more than 5 million Americans affected by Alzheimer’s, treating the symptoms is even more vital.

Some of the early signs of Alzheimer’s include memory loss that disrupts daily life, mood and personality changes, and difficulty solving otherwise simple daily tasks.

Alzheimer’s disease is the sixth-leading cause of death in the United States, according to the Alzheimer’s Association. Of the top 10 causes of death, it is the only one for which there is no cure or preventive measure. However, research suggests that addressing one early facet of the disease – decreased blood sugar in brain cells, also known as diminished cerebral glucose metabolism (DCGM) – may help relieve symptoms for certain people with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s.

In a healthy brain, glucose is the primary energy source. A brain affected by Alzheimer’s doesn’t process glucose into energy as efficiently as a healthy brain.

“Unlike other cells in the body that can metabolize fats as fuel, brain cells rely on glucose (sugar) for their primary energy source,” says Dr. Richard S. Isaacson, associate professor of clinical neurology and vice chair of education at the University of Miami’s Miller School of Medicine. "One aspect of Alzheimer’s is that it hinders the brain’s ability to use glucose, and this significantly affects brain function.”

“DCGM is an early feature of Alzheimer’s disease, represented by region-specific declines in brain glucose – or energy – metabolism,” Isaacson says. “DCGM correlates with both the cognitive decline and the pathology associated with Alzheimer’s. Research suggests that addressing DCGM may help mitigate symptoms for some patients.”

Providing brain cells with an alternative energy source may help ease the effects of DCGM, while enhancing memory and cognitive function in Alzheimer’s patients. One prescription-only medical food aims at helping Alzheimer’s patients by addressing DCGM – Axona by Accera, Inc.

The easy-to-mix, once-daily drink is currently the only prescription therapy for patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s that addresses the link between the brain’s inability to process and use glucose with the degenerative symptoms of Alzheimer’s by providing the brain with an alternative energy source. The liver digests and metabolizes Axona to produce the naturally occurring compounds – ketones– that the brain can use as an alternative energy source. Patients or caregivers mix the powder with other liquids or foods and take it once a day in conjunction with commonly prescribed Alzheimer’s medications.

“More research is necessary to determine the exact reasons why DCGM can have profound effects on cognition over the long term,” Isaacson says. “When blood glucose drops rapidly, significant decline in cognitive function occurs and may be accompanied by confusion, coma and even brain death.”

While Axona is not a cure for Alzheimer’s, it can help some patients mitigate the symptoms of the disease. Doctors and caregivers of patients using Axona have reported patients appear more alert and engaged in daily activities and conversations. “If you or a family member experience symptoms such as poor short-term memory, changes in behavior and difficulty with language, see your doctor for a full evaluation,” says Isaacson.

To learn more about Alzheimer’s disease, visit www.alz.org, the website of the Alzheimer’s Association. For more information on DCGM and Axona, visit www.about-axona.com.

Cut home entertainment costs without loss of shows

5/8/2013

(BPT) - Families are always looking for ways to cut household costs. One area that provides a bit of budget-cutting flexibility is home entertainment costs.

Americans are watching more TV than ever before, especially with the development of flat screen sets and high-definition TV (HDTV). Americans spend 34 hours a week watching TV, according to Nielsen.

How can you save money on your TV viewing? Ask yourself these questions:
1. Do I pay more than $100 a month to watch TV?
2. Does every TV in the house need cable or satellite?
3. What programs do I typically watch?
4. Do I want HD quality without extra fees?
5. Would I like to lower or eliminate my monthly fees and still watch up to 90 percent of the most-watched TV shows?

You can get rid of cable or satellite altogether, or reduce the number of boxes you need. One money-saving solution is to embrace new, inexpensive high-tech antenna technology like the FlatWave Amped, which receives signals up to 50 miles away. Hang it on the wall or better yet, in the window. This thin, flexible HD antenna is designed to be placed wherever the signal is the strongest.

"One advantage of this antenna is a patent-pending design that maximizes UHF and VHF signal reception without the need for cumbersome rabbit ears protruding out from a great-looking flatscreen TV," says Grant Whipple of antenna manufacturer Winegard Co." And you can easily move it to get a better picture."

Now, for about $90, anyone can buy one of these advanced antennas that delivers anywhere from a few channels to dozens of free over-the-air channels, depending on where they live.

"The FlatWave Amped is slim and compact, which allows for easy installation in places that would challenge traditional antennas," says Brett Thebeau, who works in the construction industry. "I don't have cable, but I receive about 20 unique channels and know for a fact that some people with traditional antennas don't even know about some channels that are available. My HD reception is near flawless with this antenna."

This technology means free TV from all the major local broadcast networks, such as ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX and PBS, plus additional networks like Qubo, ION, The CW, Universal Sports and many more. It also includes some 24-hour news networks and sports channels, as well as 24-hour music, children's, classic movie, travel and dining networks.

The FlatWave Amped is a great complement to an existing TV system, since it can receive programs satellite or cable packages may not offer, like local TV channels. The FlatWave Amped is made in the U.S.A. and is available online from GetFreeTV.com or through Amazon and Winegard Company, and is available at Costco stores nationwide.

Red carpet tips to make the most of awards season

2/5/2013

(BPT) - The Awards race is heating up. The Golden Globes and People’s Choice Awards started the season off with a bang in January, bringing to light some expected (and not so expected) winners in the film and television industry.

From the Oscars to the Grammys, it doesn’t matter if you’re a music buff, movie mogul or somewhere in between, there’s an awards show for everyone to watch from home. With so many red carpets rolling out, make the most of the season, and have some fun along the way. In the days leading up to show, and on the big night, it’s easier than you think to feel like you’re part of the action, even if you are not living anywhere close to the ceremony. Kari Dilloo, a lifestyle expert from Bing, Microsoft’s search engine, shares her tips on how to get up-to-speed and in the thick of the awards season magic:

* Plan your own red carpet party. Award shows are a great opportunity to get together with friends, dress up and enjoy some delicious treats. Whether you’re going glamorous or doing everything DIY, planning or attending a red carpet party is an excellent way to watch the show and have a good time with friends. According to Bing, the Oscars are searched more than any other awards show, giving you the perfect reason to throw an Oscar party. Still can’t decide a party theme? Go to Bing.com and listen to the song previews of best song and watch trailers for best picture nominees to see which one strikes a chord with you. Word to the wise: Award show nominees are known for their bold fashion choices, so don’t be afraid to get creative in your decorations and food choices. Bright colors and a fun menu will make your guests feel like a celebrity.

* Get caught up on the latest celeb gossip. New couples, up and coming artists and timeless Hollywood stars are known to mix and mingle before the big shows and on the red carpet. Before the festivities begin, make sure you know who to watch for by catching up on the latest celebrity happenings. From who broke up, to who’s back together, and everything in between, you can stay on top of the rumor mill and get the gossip before the red carpet is even rolled out. One of America’s sweethearts and talk of the town is Taylor Swift, and with both her love life and nomination for record of the year, it’s no surprise she topped the list as the most-searched Grammy nominee on Bing. She’s sure to drive more gossip before the big night arrives, so make sure you know who she’ll be stepping out with and wow your friends with your knowledge.

* Make your predictions. A little research can go a long way, even if you don’t have time to listen to all of the records and watch all of the top nominated films. Dilloo suggests saving time (and money) by focusing on what’s of most interest to you, and reading reviews from friends and experts to fill the gaps. Having background knowledge on the nominees and your own favorites makes the experience more personal and fun when the big night arrives. Once you’ve read up on reviews, make your picks for best picture or record of the year, and you could be the biggest winner at the end of the night among friends or colleagues in an award bracket challenge. By simply going to Bing.com and connecting it with your Facebook account, you’ll see awards search results unlike any other, relevant search results from the Web, as well as related posts from your Facebook friends. Your friends’ comments, photos, check-ins and more will populate in your search, in addition to experts across Twitter and other social networks, so you can get informed faster, and get back to the red carpet.

Whether you’re getting caught up on celeb gossip, reading reviews of the nominees, or planning your own viewing party, doing some research and having fun with friends is sure to make you feel like the star of this awards season.

What happens to a business when the power goes out?

4/23/2013

(BPT) - Losing power leads to instant anxiety: when will it return? Aside from the absence of everyday luxuries like turning on the TV or connecting to the Internet, you may worry about the food in the fridge spoiling, and wonder when you’ll be able to take a hot shower. While these types of events present real problems for the average homeowner, business owners worry about when the cash register will start ringing again.

Storm Sandy devastated the east coast with heavy winds and storm surges that flooded major cities and shorelines while dumping record snow in West Virginia and knocking out power as far away as Ohio in October 2012. Among small businesses impacted by the storm, 71 percent lost power and with it, the ability to continue operating, according to The Hartford Small Business Pulse Survey: Storm Sandy.

Approximately three-fourths of impacted owners had to close their doors for a period of time, and it took them an average of seven days to reopen. While only 11 percent experienced structural property damage, 52 percent experienced loss of sales or revenue as a result of Storm Sandy.

When an event like this happens, businesses not only have to work feverishly to get everything back up and running, but also must somehow make up for the loss of revenue during the interruption. This is why many businesses feel it’s important to include business interruption insurance as part of their business insurance protection.

Mueller, a suburban Chicago-based accounting firm, lost power for 30 hours due to a storm in July 2011 and was unable to continue normal operations. Like many accounting firms, Mueller bills by the hour, and had 80 employees unable to work.

Fortunately, Mueller was protected by The Hartford’s Spectrum Business Owner’s Policy, with optional coverage for Off-Premises Utility Services – Direct Damage and Business Income Extension For Off Premises Utility Services.

“Through The Hartford, we carry our business interruption insurance,” says Mueller’s Debora Galchick. “They understand our business. The whole process went very smoothly.”

“Business interruption insurance is a critical coverage for business owners,” says Ray Sprague, senior vice president of the small commercial insurance segment for The Hartford. “It helps provide reimbursement for a business’s loss of income when it is not operational due to unexpected damage or events, so the business can continue to meet its financial obligations, such as rent and payroll.”

Sprague says it’s not only important for business owners to make sure their policy includes business interruption insurance, but to also ensure the interruption portion of the policy covers specific areas of need, along with appropriate levels of protection. The Hartford offers the following types of optional coverage choices:

* Coverage that offers reimbursement for lost income during a power outage caused by an off-premises utility failure. It’s possible that a business wouldn’t receive direct physical damage during a catastrophic event, but could lose power, causing them to lose income.

* Reimbursement of losses that occur as a result of spoilage or temperature change. This would be relevant for restaurants or any other industry that relies on regulating their stock environment.

* Coverage that extends after an incident if earnings continue to be lost as a result of an interruption even after business resumes. For example, once a business is open for business, it may take several weeks or months to bring customers back to the level they were before the interruption.

For many businesses, these types of coverages can mean the difference between resuming operations as usual once things return to normal and struggling to make up for the loss for weeks, months or even years to come.

“While the price can vary based on a number of factors, including the type of business, industry and amount of coverage needed, the cost of business interruption coverage is generally quite reasonable relative to the protection it provides, “ says Sprague. “It's important for business owners to consult their insurance agent for guidance in determining the appropriate coverage based on their specific needs."

For more information on business interruption coverage, visit thehartford.com/businessincome.

What's more kissable this spring break? [Infographic]

3/7/2013

Guys, don’t let stubble come between you and the finish line this spring break. Gillette recently conducted a 16-city live social experiment to determine what kind of kiss women prefer – with or without stubble. The results are in, and 85 percent of women across the country prefer to kiss a guy who’s smooth shaven. Furthermore, two out of three women said guys will have better luck with them if they are smooth shaven. Therefore, to help guys achieve the look most appealing to the ladies this spring break, Gillette’s K.I.S.S. (Keep It Smooth Shaven) tent is visiting six of the top destinations in the country (South Padre Island, Miami, Lake Havasu City, Daytona Beach, Las Vegas and Panama City Beach) this March. Guys will be able to get kissably smooth with the Fusion ProGlide SilverTouch, Gillette’s best solution for guys with sensitive skin, as well as walk away with multiple products from its sensitive product line – all to help them continue to keep it smooth shaven throughout spring break and beyond. For more information, visit www.KeepItSmoothShaven.com.

DIY for your IRA: What you should know about self-directing

5/1/2013

Ups and downs in the current market and recent corporate and banking scandals have prompted many people to seek ways to have more control over their retirement funds. Self-directed IRAs allow consumers to use their knowledge and expertise to invest in assets beyond stocks, bonds and mutual funds. While self-directed IRAs provide a new way to grow retirement savings, they may not be the best option for everyone.

It’s important to note a self-directed IRA, such as plans offered by Ohio-based IRA custodian Equity Trust Company, is not a different type of IRA. Plans such as a traditional IRA or Roth IRA follow the same rules and guidelines set by the IRS, whether they are held at a custodian who can only hold “traditional” investments or a company such as Equity Trust Company, which can provide for clients who want traditional or alternative investments. In the end, it’s about determining the best plan for your needs and which investment options you should pursue.

Self-directed IRAs combine the power of tax-advantaged accounts with the freedom to invest in alternative assets. This allows investors to truly diversify their portfolios and potentially generate greater returns than typically seen with traditional investment options. While traditional IRA investments are primarily defined as publicly traded stocks, bonds or mutual funds, alternative investments can be loosely defined as "everything else" the IRS doesn’t list as prohibited.

Alternative investments can range from real estate, tax liens and shares of private equity to heavy equipment, windmills and even cattle. While these assets are sometimes considered “non-traditional,” they are simply investment opportunities many investors take advantage of every day.

The majority of self-directed IRA investors leverage their knowledge and careers that have made them successful and use that experience to grow their IRA savings. Investors with experience in buying property or engaging in private lending and investing can put their expertise to work in a self-directed IRA.

Since self-directed IRAs allow for a wide range of investment options, they can sometimes be targets for fraudulent schemes. It’s vital to understand that while IRAs are administered by custodians and fall under the tax code, you shouldn't make an assumption about the quality or legitimacy of assets. Not all custodians are permitted to evaluate assets or potential investments. Passive custodians, which often hold self-directed IRAs, do not sell investments or provide tax, legal or investment advice. The IRS can provide educational material, such as Publication 590 for IRAs, but does not endorse or review investments.

Equity Trust Company’s fraud awareness center helps give investors a starting point when it comes to watching out for con artist schemes, fraud and other scams. According to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, U.S. investors held around $94 billion in self-directed IRAs in 2011; given the size of these funds, investors should thoroughly investigate potential opportunities before making any investments.

A self-directed IRA requires a stronger hands-on approach, but the ability to diversify, potentially earn greater returns and invest in areas they have knowledge often lead investors to pursue this lesser-known option.