(ARA) – Other than buying a home and automobile, a college education is one of the biggest investments Americans typically make.

Fortunately, you may be able to cut your college costs at income tax time with a variety of credits, deductions and savings plans.

The American Opportunity and Lifetime Learning Credits are likely to result in the biggest tax rewards on your tax year 2011 federal return due April 17, 2012. The following basic requirements apply to both credits:

* Filing status on the return cannot be “married filing separately.”

* The student must be you, your spouse or a dependent for whom you claim an exemption.

* A dependent cannot claim the credits if claimed on another person's (e.g. parents') return.

* If you do not claim the dependent exemption (even if entitled to the exemption), you cannot claim a credit based on that dependent's expenses.

* Claim credits on Form 8863 and file with your Federal 1040.

You can use TaxACT's College Tax Whiz, a free interactive tool that breaks down 10 college tax benefits at www.taxact.com/college-tax-whiz. It explains the tax benefit, acceptable expenses, types of education and other key qualifiers in a question and answer format.

(ARA) - Though it may have started off mild in many parts of the country, cold and flu season is now in full swing and staying healthy this time of year can be a challenge. For those suffering, identifying the type of illness — cold, flu, sinus infection, etc. — and finding the right over-the-counter medications are key in helping to alleviate symptoms.

Symptoms of a cold may vary and can include a runny nose, sore throat, cough, watery eyes and congestion. Medications containing pseudoephedrine (located behind the counter in the pharmacy), including many national and store-brand decongestants sold at leading retailers, can be used to address nasal congestion, while pain relievers containing active ingredients such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen can help with other symptoms such as a sore throat, headache or fever.

Influenza, or the flu, is a viral infection affecting the respiratory tract, including the nose, throat and lungs. The flu tends to come on suddenly and with more severe symptoms, whereas a cold generally develops slowly. The best defense against influenza is prevention by getting an annual flu vaccination. For the unlucky ones who’ve contracted the flu this year, try to get plenty of rest and take in a lot of fluids. In some cases, a doctor may prescribe an antiviral medication such as Tamiflu.

(ARA) – Upgrading the kitchen is on many homeowners’ “to do” list. And for good reason. A minor kitchen remodel ranks fourth on the list of the top 10 home improvement projects that deliver return on investment, according to Remodeling magazine’s 2010-11 Cost vs. Value Report.

But whether you’re in it for the investment, or just to freshen up the space in your home where people spend the most time, a new kitchen look could be a fun, impactful improvement to your house. Some may start with a weekend project and a $40 can of paint, while others will jump into a $50,000-plus remodel. Either way, one thing is for sure – you can’t go wrong with a beautiful, highly functional kitchen.

If time or budget restraints point you in the direction of changing a few basic elements of the kitchen, focus on things that make the most impact. Even a novice do-it-yourself homeowner can complete many of these items on their own:

* Paint the walls.
* Change out the faucet.
* Add new accessories like pillows or wall art.

“Faucets in the kitchen are much more than what they used to be,” says Kevin McJoynt of Danze, a manufacturer of decorative plumbing faucets and fixtures. “They play an important role in setting the decor and focal points of any kitchen.”

While a contractor is recommended for most of these projects, make sure you’re involved in exploring the options that will help you use this space as smart as possible.

(ARA) - Education is the second largest industry in the United States, and nearly everyone is impacted by its professionals in some way.

The industry is transitioning to a performance-based work culture, and expectations have increased for most educators, prompting many to explore the process of earning a master's degree in education.

In addition to preparing current K-12 educators with training and credentials that may open doors to leadership roles within a school system, master's degrees are an attractive option for students with a range of undergraduate degrees and career backgrounds who are interested in transitioning to roles that support K-12 learning.

DeVry University offers a Master of Science in Education degree program through its College of Liberal Arts & Sciences. With specializations in curriculum leadership, educational leadership and educational technology leadership, the program helps prepare graduates for career success in an evolving industry.

Graduates of a master's degree program in education may go on to become educational consultants, specialists or educational leaders such as principals or superintendents. Others become instructional coordinators, developing curricula, training teachers and assessing educational programs for quality and adherence to regulations.

Employment for these professionals is expected to grow 23 percent from 2008-2018, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

(ARA) - The statistics are staggering: As the leading cause of death in the United States, cardiovascular (or heart) disease accounts for more than 2,200 deaths per day, or one every 39 seconds. Furthermore, the American Heart Association (AHA) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention currently estimate that every year about 785,000 Americans will have their first heart attack, and another 470,000 will have a recurrent attack.

Adults should know how they can avoid becoming a statistic of heart disease. For many, knowing the leading risk factors and maintaining a heart-healthy lifestyle will go a long way. And for a number of patients, talking to their doctors about low-dose daily aspirin therapy may be the “heart-smart” thing to do.

“You should never start aspirin therapy on your own,” says cardiologist Prerana Manohar. “If you feel that a daily low-dose aspirin regimen may make sense for you, be sure to talk with your doctor about its benefits and risks.”

Allegan, Mich.-based Perrigo is a pharmaceutical company which offers consumers a variety of affordable store-brand aspirin choices that compare with a variety of brand names, including Bayer, Ecotrin and St. Joseph.

(ARA) - It has become the new norm: Unmarried couples deciding to live together. In fact, the number of unmarried, opposite-sex couples who shared the same living quarters jumped by 13 percent, to 7.5 million, in 2010 over 2009, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. The number of same-sex couples living together is about 620,000.

As cohabitation has become the norm, the number of legal cases involving disputes among couples who live together has risen in proportion, according to FindLaw.com, the nation’s leading website for free legal information. Before moving in with your significant other, consider these tips:

Set the ground rules. Take time to talk about how you want the relationship to work and what you will do if it doesn’t work.

Set goals. To avoid misunderstandings, clearly set a goal about whether you will continue the relationship or end it after a certain period of time.

Keep finances separate. Keep separate checking, savings and credit card accounts. Sit down each month and do your bills together. Be clear with each other about who pays for what.

Keep major purchases separate. If you make a major purchase such as a car, and are making the monthly payments, be sure to keep the title in your name.

(ARA) - Are you among the millions of Americans who scramble every year to meet Uncle Sam’s income tax filing deadline?

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) estimates that one-third of Americans wait until the last minute to file their personal income tax returns (for 2011 income tax returns, the deadline has been extended to April 17). To help you make the most of tax season, here are some tips from FindLaw.com, the nation’s leading website for free legal information:

Start a file. Somewhere in your home, create a place where you can store all the documents you’ll need to complete your taxes.

Seek advice for your small business. From the moment you decide to open a small business, go to an accountant who specializes in working with small business owners and get advice on how to properly and accurately record all of your business expenses and revenue.

Get help. Get the help of a professional tax preparer immediately after you receive W-2 forms from your employer in order to complete and file your taxes before the filing deadline.

Go electronic. Every year, more and more people file their taxes electronically. Why? Because it offers ease of use and quicker tax refunds, which are typically issued two weeks after a taxpayer files an electronic return.

(ARA) - Are you starting off your day with a bagel and a coffee ... again? It’s easy for a breakfast routine to quickly turn into a breakfast rut.

People often sacrifice a well-rounded breakfast that helps fuel morning activities and stave off hunger for a quick breakfast loaded with refined carbohydrates and sugar. The goal is to strike a balance: find quick and easy recipes that balance carbohydrates – derived from whole grains, fruits and vegetables – with a lean protein.

One protein to consider for breakfast is turkey, which is available in a variety of breakfast-friendly and oftentimes gluten-free cuts, including links, bacon and ground. Jennie-O offers many quick and easy breakfast recipes on SwitchToTurkey.com and jennieo.com.

“It’s time for Americans to drop their soggy cereal, pudge-inducing pastries and boring granola,” says Barry Lynch, Jennie-O Turkey Store. “The new year is a perfect time to start each day right with a convenient, protein-rich breakfast using turkey.”

Find recipes – including a breakfast burrito, breakfast pizza and sassy scrambled eggs with JENNIE-O turkey sausage links – as well as tips on safe handling instructions for turkey on the company’s website.

(ARA) - With heart disease the leading cause of death in the U.S., according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, it’s time to listen to your heart and get the right kinds of fats into your daily diet.

Registered Dietitian Elizabeth Somer, author of “Eat Your Way to Sexy,” answers some questions about heart health.

Q: What are the main differences between “good fats” and “bad fats?”
A: Fats to avoid are saturated and trans fats, which are solid at room temperature. Consuming polyunsaturated fatty acids - specifically omega-3s DHA and EPA found in fatty fish - are important for brain, eye and cardiovascular health.

Q: Doesn’t my body make all of the omega-3s needed?
A: An average U.S. diet contains less than 100 milligrams of DHA per day. That is well below one expert’s recommendation of at least 220 milligrams of DHA per day.

Q: Are there other ways to get DHA and EPA into my diet?
A: For those who do not eat significant amounts of fish, there are DHA/EPA supplements made from algae. One such supplement is Schiff MegaRed Plant-Omega, which is made from a vegetarian and sustainable source of DHA and EPA – algae. To learn more, visit www.schiffmegared.com.

(ARA) – Each year, an estimated 71,000 children are treated in emergency rooms for accidental medication poisonings, many of which are caused by dosing mistakes.

"Many well-intentioned caregivers can get mixed up when it comes to administering medication,” says Dr. Michael App, a pediatrician in Grand Rapids, Mich.

Several manufacturers of children’s medications are also making efforts to improve safety and reduce the likelihood of errors. Perrigo Company, the world’s largest manufacturer of over-the-counter pharmaceutical products for retailers’ store brands, has been investing in equipment to insert “flow restrictors” in the bottles of all of their pediatric acetaminophen products.

Experts remind caregivers to be diligent and avoid these common medicine mistakes:

Not paying attention to potential drug interactions
Caregivers should always check medication labels and take care to avoid administering multiple drugs at the same time, unless recommended or prescribed by a pediatrician.

Overmedicating due to measuring errors
When administering medicine, caregivers should always use the dosing device provided by the pharmacist or manufacturer, and never attempt to “eyeball” the proper amount.

Basing the dose on age instead of weight
“Since children metabolize medicine differently depending on how much they weigh, this is how most manufacturers label their dosage recommendations – not based on age,” says App.

(ARA) – Termites are a major factor in not only the health of your neighborhood but also your family’s greatest asset – your home. Termites cause more than $2 billion in property damage every year to homes in the United States, and statistics show that’s likely more damage than caused by fires, storms or earthquakes.

It is important to be able to spot the signs of a termite infestation by looking around your home. Look for mud tubes along your home’s exterior. Keep in mind that termites are very small in size – from 1/8 to 3/8 of an inch – so they can travel through small non-cellulose cracks in your home, such as through your foundation.

The Sentricon Termite Colony Elimination System from Dow AgroSciences provides a tough, environmentally responsible solution for protection against termites. Stations are strategically placed eight to 10 feet around the perimeter of your home. Bait in each station is highly desirable to termites, so worker termites will feed upon it and bring it back to the colony. Once other termites feed upon it they will start to die off. Soon the termite colony will be eliminated.

For more information about the Sentricon System, visit www.sentricon.com.

(ARA) - All roofs protect us, and the interiors of our homes, but they can do so much more. They can be the collection and distribution point for an inexhaustible supply of free natural light and energy.

A roof that uses Energy Star qualified venting skylights, for instance, admits healthful natural light while providing passive ventilation through the natural “chimney effect” of rising air. This is not an insignificant consideration, especially in kitchens and baths that have higher moisture and humidity levels than other areas of the home.

Modern, low profile skylights are unobtrusive and as dependable as vertical windows. Information about units with a 10-year no-leak installation warranty, plus an installer locator, is available at veluxusa.com.

(ARA) - Health care reform has expanded access to health care insurance coverage to more than 30 million new patients beginning in 2014, stretching the resources of health care facilities nationwide. Meanwhile, the introduction of new regulations and technological innovations, as well as the rapid adoption of electronic health records (EHRs), have added new layers to an already complex industry.

Health care administration professionals navigate this complicated system from the business side, ensuring that health care delivery processes run smoothly and patients continue to receive quality care. They balance the influx of new patients while maintaining resources.

With the health care industry showing no signs of slowing down, these professionals are in high demand. Some universities now offer degree programs specifically designed for this career track. For example, interested students can now enroll in a bachelor's degree program in Healthcare Administration at DeVry University. The program is broken down into two specializations: Healthcare Informatics and Healthcare Management. Health Informatics students will also experience lab courses that allow them to explore data requirements for gathering and testing, as well as data analysis for decision-making and business intelligence.

Health care administration is one of its most high-growth fields, promising rewarding opportunities for professionals of all ages.

(ARA) - When it comes to telling your special someone how you feel on Valentine’s Day, think traditional, rather than digital.

On a holiday that celebrates our most genuine feelings, the world of online greetings lacks important personal connections. In fact, a recent survey, conducted on behalf of premium Swiss chocolatier Lindt, showed the majority of women like to receive traditional gifts on Valentine’s Day.

Keep these ideas in mind as you shop for your loved ones:

* Handwritten cards. What could be more meaningful than a heartfelt expression of love? Taking the time to craft a note is a great idea that anyone would treasure.

* Chocolates. Make your gift stand apart by putting a little added thought into it. Opt for premium chocolate, like Lindt, which is made with the finest ingredients and is sure to be the perfect gift option for everyone on your Valentine’s Day list.

* Flowers. Skip the basic blooms and put a bit more thought into a bouquet. Consider the recipient’s favorite colors – you don’t necessarily have to go with pink and red just because those are emblematic of the holiday.

For more classic gift ideas, visit Lindt.com.

(ARA) - Tired of winter white? Chances are you’re itching to dig in the soil and fill your garden with plants and flowers bursting with rich color and fragrance.

“Designing with colorful, low-maintenance plants that bloom year round is one of my greatest pleasures,” says Susan Olinger, president of the Association of Professional Landscape Designers.

For the average person that’s not as simple as it sounds, but coming this spring, it will be easy to add plenty of “flower power” to any garden, patio or balcony with new Bloomtastic! flowers and plants from Hines Growers.

Check out these tips from garden pros for eye-popping color and abundant blooms spring through fall.

1. The right plant for the right spot. Too often we’re seduced by pretty plants at a garden center, only to find it withers and dies when we plant it in our garden.

2. Design for continuous garden interest. When designing your garden, don’t buy plants that bloom at the same time. Instead, add plants that bloom in spring, summer and autumn.

3. Create drama with foliage. Many plants have different colors in their leaves and can show off brilliant color in a small garden or in containers.

(ARA) - In the way of tax legislation, 2011 was a relatively quiet year. However, that doesn’t mean there aren’t tax law changes that will affect this year’s tax returns.

“The changes enacted at the end of 2010 will still impact this year’s and next year’s federal tax returns,” says TaxACT spokesperson, Jessi Dolmage.

To help you maximize your refund, here are some tax law changes you should know about before filing this year’s return.

* Your federal return must be filed by Tuesday, April 17, 2012. April 15 is a Sunday and Washington, D.C., is recognizing Emancipation Day April 16. Don’t use the extended deadline as an excuse to procrastinate, though.

* Amounts for standard mileage, standard deductions, personal exemptions and the Alternative Minimum Tax have increased. Note there are different standard mileage rates for miles driven before July 1 and after June 30. Details about all increases are in IRS Publication 17 at www.irs.gov.

* Amounts for standard mileage, standard deductions, personal exemptions and the Alternative Minimum Tax have increased.

“Trusted solutions like TaxACT navigate all the tax law changes for you to help maximize your refund, file a return that’s 100 percent accurate and provide help when you need it,” says Dolmage.

(ARA) - As the weather outside gets frightful, now is the time to make sure your vehicle’s tires are prepared for snow, ice and freezing temperatures. Sixty-three percent of Americans are concerned about skidding and icy roadways, according to a recent survey commissioned by Hankook Tire America Corp. Here are some ways to promote safety as you venture out in the snow:

* Buy your loved one a set of winter tires: The Hankook Tire Winter Gauge Index revealed that 84 percent of Americans would not mind receiving tires as a gift and 35 percent would actually love it.

* Plan accordingly: Winter tires such as Hankook’s Winter i*cept evo are optimized specifically for icy, snowy conditions, providing enhanced traction to prevent skidding. Put snow tires on your car one to two weeks before the first anticipated snowstorm.

* Have a kit handy: Keep in your car a winter driving kit consisting of a spare tire, ice scraper, snow shovel and brush, booster cables, a flash light and a blanket.

* Check your tire carrying capacity and speed rating: Never overload your vehicle and when replacing tires, the speed rating of the replacement tires must be equal to or greater than that of the tire being replaced.

(ARA) - Tax season is in full swing. Whether you file now or wait until the last minute, make tax time easier with these tips.

Start by collecting all your tax documents and information, including W-2s, 1098s, 1099s, receipts, and a copy of last year’s return. Use a tax return checklist like the one at www.taxact.com checklist.

Take a few minutes to get familiar with key tax law changes and expiring tax breaks.

Do your own taxes using an online or downloadable tax preparation solution. Products guide you step by step through your entire return, as well as your credits and deductions. The programs do the math, complete the forms and identify possible errors for you.

It’s common to spend upwards of $50 for a tax preparation solution, but there are quality free solutions. Compare free products carefully, as there are important differences. Many experts consider TaxACT to be the most complete free federal product, as it includes all e-fileable forms, free e-file, and free tax help. If you’re changing solutions or filing for the first time, TaxACT in particular makes your experience easier with data import and fast start options.

(ARA) - Several of the most common mistakes made on tax returns are simple in nature. For instance:

* Social Security numbers must match perfectly with what’s on Social Security cards.

* All names on returns must also match Social Security cards.

* If you’re not sure which of the five statuses you are, see IRS Publication 501.

* In addition to math errors, taxpayers often miscalculate amounts related to their taxable income, withholding and estimated tax payments, the Earned Income Tax Credit, the Child and Dependent Care Credit, the standard deduction for age 65 and older or blind, and taxable amounts of Social Security benefits.

* Double check the routing and account numbers for your financial institution so that you either receive your refund in a timely fashion or pay your balance on time.

“Another easy way to avoid these types of errors is to use a tax preparation solution,” states Jessi Dolmage, TaxACT spokesperson. “Online and download solutions like TaxACT allow you to import information from last year’s return, which reduces the chance of mistyping key information. The programs also provide step-by-step guidance while completing the forms and math for you, and they check your return for errors and missed opportunities.”

(ARA) – If you are looking for ideas to upgrade your home’s interior decor for 2012, the American Hardwood Information Center offers design trends inspired by the most recent High Point Market home furnishings show.

* Bring the outdoors in through the use of natural American hardwoods. Outdoor-inspired furniture that mimics traditional park benches, picnic tables and lawn chairs, using hardwoods, is a noteworthy design element.

* Garden inspired design is a hot trend in both furniture design and home decor accessories. The garden gate motif works well with everything from bedspreads to pillows to furniture coverings.

* American cherry is the top species in four categories of wood furniture, including bedroom, dining room, home office and entertainment cabinets, according to Appalachian Hardwood Manufacturers, Inc.’s 2011 Furniture Styles and Material Use Survey, conducted at the High Point Market. Walnut, red oak, white oak round out the top five species, with many furniture manufacturers using clear, satin finishes.

If you are undecided about which species to choose for your home design, the American Hardwood Information Center at www.HardwoodInfo.com offers a species guide, stain selector and inspirational photo galleries to help with wood furniture selection. A free smart phone app is available for download as well.

(ARA) — As each year comes to a close, people begin to make resolutions — typically, vowing to start something new in the year ahead, such as lose weight, get a new job, start volunteering and so on. Start 2012 on the right foot with this list of easy home updates and tips to help conquer your New Year’s resolutions.

Develop better eating habits
* Research shows that people tend to eat less when surrounded by the color blue. Repaint your kitchen or dining room in a blue hue to help naturally suppress your appetite.

Spend more time with family and friends
* Look for household products and tools that keep cleaning time to a minimum. The AccuClean (TM) whole-home air filtration system from American Standard Heating & Air Conditioning attaches to your furnace or air handler to reduce dust accumulation in the home by more than 50 percent, which means you’ll spend less time cleaning and have more time for your family and friends.

Keeping New Year’s resolutions can certainly be a challenge, so it’s important to set yourself up for success. Set specific and realistic goals; and don’t be scared to break bigger goals into a series of smaller steps to avoid feeling overwhelmed.

(ARA) – What can you do to ensure financial success in the coming year? TransUnion offers five tips for planning and achieving your goals:

* Check your credit reports every three months. Monitoring your credit will help you recognize bad financial habits, like making late payments, which can affect your credit score.

* Know your score. Your credit score helps determine your interest rates on credit purchases.

* Create a monthly spending plan and stick to it. One of the biggest reasons year-long goals fail is simply because the time is not taken to break down your spending habits for smaller and more manageable increments.

*Check for accuracy. Make sure the information on your credit reports is up-to-date and reflects your current credit history. Give yourself at least 30 days to resolve and issues. Online dispute forms are available at TransUnion.com.

* Take additional measures to minimize your exposure to identity theft. In addition to frequently checking your credit, you can sign up for a credit monitoring service will alert you whenever something changes in your report.

TransUnion.com offers tools to help you understand your credit information, manage your debt load, protect your identity – and help you achieve your financial goals for 2012.

(ARA) - Every January, Americans resolve to be healthier in the new year. We change our diets and start exercising. This is a good time to make annual doctors’ appointments and talk to your doctor about your health and any symptoms, no matter how insignificant they seem. Seemingly minor symptoms like dry mouth may be a sign of a more serious condition like Sjogren’s
(SHOW-grins) syndrome.

Sjogren’s is an autoimmune disease in which the body’s immune system attacks moisture producing glands. Although most people have never heard of it, Sjogren’s is the second leading autoimmune disorder in the U.S., affecting almost 4 million people.

“As a Sjogren’s patient, I know how uncomfortable dry mouth can be, yet I never mentioned my dry mouth to my doctors until my dental hygienist noticed symptoms and asked me about them,” says Kathy McCarren from Woodbridge, Va. “Now I always suggest to others that if they notice that they are drinking a lot of liquids or have difficulty chewing, swallowing or talking because their mouths are dry, they need to tell their health care professionals right away. Not only can dry mouth lead to increased dental cavities, like it did for me, but it can also lead to more serious health problems.”

If you suffer from dry mouth, resolve to Defy the Dry in 2012 and talk to your doctor about your symptoms. For more information on Sjogren’s and to download a symptoms checklist, visit www.DefytheDry.com.

(ARA) - Traveling over the holidays is known to be a stressful time. But, with some careful planning, holiday travel can be full of joy, instead of headaches. Check out these holiday travel tips to help you get through this busy time with ease.

* Be flexible and have a positive attitude. Be prepared for the unknown and have back-up plans. Pack extra snacks, a book, your cellphone charger, games for the kids and try to relax if you are faced with an unplanned event.

* Pack wisely. Decide well in advance if you will check or carry-on your luggage and plan accordingly. Kids can unknowingly delay you through security, so remember to always check kids’ carry-on bags for any liquids, gels, etc.

* Carry-on the essentials. If you’re traveling with an infant who is nursing, bring the new Boppy Travel Pillow – a full-size Boppy pillow that folds into a small and sleek travel bag. The travel feeding pillow even snaps right on to a stroller and is not considered an extra carry-on bag.

* Become a tech savvy traveler. Whenever possible, print your boarding passes at home or use check-in kiosks. Think about doing your holiday shopping online and having your gifts shipped to your destination.

(ARA) - Just as regular tune-ups may extend the life of your car, performing routine maintenance to your home’s heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system may extend the life of your HVAC equipment. While there are some tasks homeowners can handle on their own, many HVAC projects require a professional contractor.

Independent Customer Care (TM) Dealers from American Standard Heating & Air Conditioning offer a quick overview of basic service tasks for do-it-yourselfers and service jobs that require a pro:

Furnace maintenance: DIY
To prevent costly repairs and keep your system operating at peak efficiency, replace your furnace filters on a monthly basis.

Furnace maintenance: Pro
A licensed HVAC contractor should fully inspect your furnace at least once per year.

Outdoor unit: DIY
Keep the area surrounding the outdoor unit free of debris – remove any grass or leaves near the base of the unit and keep nearby shrubbery pruned.

Outdoor unit: Pro
When servicing an outdoor unit, a professional will inspect the unit’s wiring and repair any loose or damaged connections.

For more information or to contact a local American Standard Heating & Air Conditioning dealer, go to www.americanstandardair.com.

(ARA) – Hectic schedules often make meal-related decisions a chore. Affordable and simpler shopping routines could help you start savoring family meal time again.

Consider these tips from national grocery retailer Save-A-Lot before your next shopping trip:

Keep track of ingredients to replenish
Keep track of ingredients you frequently use. Then, as soon as you use up an item, immediately add it to your ongoing grocery list. By the end of the week, not only will your shopping list be complete, but also you won't be stuck in the store trying to remember what is or is not in your cupboard.

Visit grocery store websites for tools and deals
Check to see if your store is offering discounts in exchange for signing up for their shopping clubs year round. For example, Save-A-Lot offers a $5 coupon for signing up for its Smart Shopper Club.

Take advantage of store brands
Many grocery stores offer their own exclusive brands of foods and everyday items, and frequently these items are of equivalent quality as more expensive national brand names.

With these few simple tips, you'll not only save money at the grocery store, but you'll have more time to enjoy cooking and celebrating with those you love.

(ARA) - With more and more homeowners choosing to stay in their current homes instead of selling, many are deciding to remodel.

Ply Gem and remodeling company Case/Design Remodeling, Inc. offer advice on how to achieve a complete, architecturally-styled exterior remodel based on a recent before and after project.

Envision your dream home
"Having a vision helps your remodeling contractor understand what style you're looking for," said Bruce Case, president of Case/Design Remodeling, Inc. "Keep in mind, it's also important to select a style that fits with the neighborhood. It may be more difficult to sell in the future if you make a too drastic change."

Your remodeler can make style suggestions, or you can drive around older neighborhoods in your area to gauge ideas for what styles might work best.

Mix and match texture and color
More often than not, homeowners stick with the basics when taking on an exterior renovation. However, today's exterior building products allow for infinite options that can take your home to the next level and go beyond simply replacing windows and siding.

Consider architectural details
Beyond texture and color changes, adding minor architectural details can make a big difference. To see more of the renovation described in this story visit www.facebook.com/plygem.

(ARA) – For heartburn sufferers, rich food and drink at can be trouble.

Heartburn is most often described as a burning sensation behind the breast bone that moves up toward the neck or throat. This occurs when stomach acid irritates the normal lining of the esophagus. People may also experience acid regurgitation with heartburn, which is the sensation of stomach fluid coming up through the chest into the mouth. Less common symptoms that may also be associated with gastroesophageal reflux include unexplained chest pain, wheezing, sore throat and cough.

According to some physicians, planning ahead and knowing which over-the-counter (OTC) treatments may help are essential to keep your gatherings merry and bright.

“I always recommend heartburn sufferers be prepared and bring along a few over-the-counter treatments, like antacids or H2 blockers, when they are heading out for a holiday party,” says Dr. Tom Rupp, a Michigan-licensed gastroenterologist. “With regard to specific medications or brands, I would actually recommend patients just go with a store-brand treatment. Store-brand OTCs have the same efficacy as national brands and are approved by the FDA, but cost much less.”

(ARA) - Traveling with multiple generations can be a rewarding experience. Keep these tips in mind to help ensure your multi-generational family travel is fun, safe and rewarding for everyone in the group:

When you have to please tastes and preferences that vary as widely as those between grandparents and grandkids, the destination you choose for your family vacation becomes even more important. Choosing a destination that’s focused on a single theme (such as an amusement park or beach resort) or that has limited access to a variety of attractions may leave at least some members of the group disappointed.

Look for destinations that specialize in accommodating family travelers with a wide variety of activities, attractions and types of lodging and dining. For example, Myrtle Beach has earned a reputation as a family-friendly destination for its broad range of things to see and do, including miles of pristine beaches, zoos, amusement parks, museums, natural preserves, and outstanding shopping and dining.

Another advantage of Myrtle Beach is its drivability from practically anywhere on the eastern seaboard. Family travelers often prefer destinations that are within driving distance of home. Road trips can help reduce transportation costs, and smart families can make the journey to their vacation spot part of the overall experience.

(ARA) - The new year is a great time to make some resolutions to keep your skin, hair and nails healthy. Your dermatologist can help you with these resolutions. Dermatologists are medical doctors and surgeons who have extensive training, experience, and passion for keeping skin, hair, and nails healthy throughout a person's lifetime. Here are tips to keep you healthy looking from head to toe.

* Perform a skin self-exam. Examining your skin for suspicious moles and other lesions could save your life. Use the American Academy of Dermatology’s body mole map, located at www.aad.org, to record your moles and learn how to perform a proper skin exam. If you find a suspicious lesion, make an appointment to see a dermatologist.

* Don’t skip the hair conditioner. Dermatologists recommend using a conditioner after every shampoo. While a conditioner cannot repair hair, it can increase shine, decrease static electricity, improve strength, and offer some protection from harmful UV rays.

* Don’t bite your fingernails. You can transfer infectious organisms between your fingers and mouth. Also, nail biting can damage the skin around your fingers, allowing infections to enter.

For more healthy skin, hair and nail tips, visit the American Academy of Dermatology’s website at www.aad.org.

(ARA) – It might be coincidental that the new year and the beginning of tax season arrive so close together. Many people resolve to be wiser with their money in the new year, and it just so happens that being smart about your taxes is a good way to get started.

Use these tips to help build a successful approach to your tax resolution.

* Get started now. If you know that you struggle with preparing your return, make the call to a professional who can help you. But don’t wait – tax preparers’ appointment books fill up fast.

* Set up a filing system – and stick to it. Create files for receipts and other documents and be sure to keep them updated.

* Take advantage of tax-saving benefits offered by your employer. If they’re available to you, consider how much smarter it is to use pre-tax dollars for things like medical expenses and child care.

* Do yourself a favor by checking on your tax liability a couple of times through the year. If you need to make adjustments to your withholding, do so as quickly as you can.

For more ideas about a financially sound new year, visit blog.equifax.com.

(ARA) – Tax time is a stressful time, even for the most prepared filer.

This year, don’t let yourself be affect by the stress – or at least find ways to cut back on it. By avoiding these six common mistakes, you’ll be making the process of filing your taxes a lot easier on yourself.

1: Rushing to file by April 15
If you aren’t ready by the 15th, you don’t need to panic. Six month extensions are now an easy-to-use option.

2: Being a perfectionist
The IRS isn’t going to hunt you down and send you to jail over a simple mistake. If you’ve lost some information that’s necessary to your tax return, do your best to fill it out using reasonable estimates.

3: Going it alone
Getting help from a tax professional is much more affordable than you might imagine, and can pay off in a lot of ways, not least of which could be a lower overall tax bill.

4: Not reviewing your work
Going back to your taxes with fresh eyes can help you catch mistakes or areas that were simply missed. Check the details.

5: Being afraid to ask questions
Go directly to the IRS website or the IRS help line, but if you still need more assistance, ask your question at Equifax’s blog or check with a tax professional.

6: Not being careful with direct deposit
The IRS can only deposit the funds into the account you tell them to use, so make sure that the information you provide is correct.

(ARA) – As popular as online shopping is, it also poses some inherent risks. By learning to take these precautions, you’ll develop good habits that will benefit you throughout the year.

1. Look at the address. If you’re shopping on a website and you’ve hit the “checkout” button, you should see a change in the Web address at the top of your browser from “http” change to “https.” You might also see a small padlock icon, depending on your browser.

2. Be careful about the information you give out. We’re often asked for our email addresses, ZIP codes and shopping habits online. In the wrong hands, all of that information can provide clues that are helpful in stealing your identity. Think carefully about whether you need to answer those questions.

3. Monitor yourself. To keep track of how your personal information is being used, consider signing up for a credit monitoring service. With this service, you will be notified if anyone signs up for an account in your name or with your personal information.

4. Change your passwords. You should ideally be using a variety of passwords, all of which are hard to guess and contain a variety of characters – and changing them regularly.

(ARA) – If you’ve finished making your holiday gift list, don’t put the pen and paper away just yet. With the new year just around the corner, planning for home improvement projects now can help you prioritize and budget.

Give yourself a deadline for completing your fix-it list and then call a household meeting. Bring to that meeting is an idea of how much you can afford to spend, but also estimates of how much it will cost to complete each of the tasks you want to finish.

Armed with your list and your budgetary figures, go through each item, weighing the pros and cons of both doing it now and letting it wait. You’ll inevitably have a lot of options, including putting things off and saving more money throughout the year, or investing some money in repairs now and letting your savings grow for midyear projects.

Your long-term plans for your home should also come into play. If you’re planning on selling anytime soon, consider carefully whether the projects you plan on doing will pay off at sale time. If you’re working with a Realtor, you might even want to discuss with them the best fix-ups and repairs within your budget.

(ARA) - Homeowners often worry about keeping their homes safe and secure for their families. And it’s no wonder: 70 percent of home break-ins are in the form of kick-ins to a door, according to the U. S. Department of Justice. Yet there are many easy and affordable ways to ensure a safer home, and ultimately, greater peace of mind.

Assess the perimeter. Walk around your yard at different times of the day to judge lighting and shadows.

Add an alarmed lock. Most alarm systems trigger after a door has already been opened. However, if you don’t have an alarm system, an alarmed lock is a great alternative, and will allow you to instantly hear what’s happening at your door. For example, Schlage, America’s most trusted brand in security according to Research Now, an independent research report funded by Ingersoll Rand Co., offers a first-of-its-kind Keyed Entry With Built-In Alarm. It’s an alarmed lock with the added safeguard of a sensor alarm that lets you know when it is being tampered with.

For more home security ideas, visit www.schlage.com.

(ARA) - Saving money is on everyone’s mind this winter season. If you’re looking for ways to save, look at your home, and see if you can improve on your energy efficiency – thereby keeping a few extra dollars in your pocket.

* Instead of continuously running back and forth to the thermostat to constantly keep readjusting the temperature, install a programmable thermostat and preset the times you want the temps lower or higher.

* To help your furnace operate better, hire a qualified company to clean the ducts, blower, cooling coils and heat exchanger. To find someone certified contact NADCA – the HVAC Inspection, Maintenance and Restoration Association.

“A clean heating and cooling system helps to increase the airflow through your furnace, which in turn helps to make your home more comfortable,” says Matt Mongiello, president of NADCA. “And when you combine a clean system with controlled temperatures, you’ll notice the savings on your utility bills.”

* Wash your clothes only in cold water so you don’t have to spend money using the water heater. And make sure you only process full loads to help conserve the number of loads you run and water you use.

(ARA) – After winter has arrived, you know what’s coming next – higher energy bills. To make sure that your home is as energy-efficient as possible, follow these tips.

Insulate

To get the biggest bang for your buck according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, add insulation to your attic. If your insulation is at or below the floor joists, you likely need to add more - 12 to 24 inches, depending on where you live.

Seal your windows

Even if windows are sealed with weather stripping, cold air can still enter through gaps. Use silicone caulk to seal air leaks or place shrink-wrap film over drafty windows to help reduce energy loss.

Have your furnace inspected and clean your heating and cooling system

Having your heating and cooling system inspected and cleaned can extend the life of your furnace and can even make it run considerably more efficiently, saving you money on their monthly heating and cooling bills.

Change filters regularly

Filters are designed to remove the dust and debris from the air flowing into your home. Change your furnace filter once a month to keep your system running at peak performance.

For more information on how to winterize your home, visit NADCA.com.

(ARA) - When spring arrives with its bright sunshine, fresh air, vibrant colors and light, do you find yourself regretting the decorating decisions you made last fall or winter? It’s natural to incorporate the season into your home decor, and the best way to do that is with design touches that can change as easily – and quickly – as the seasons themselves.

While neutral-hued walls make a versatile background for virtually any design, don’t be afraid to spice things up with seasonal touches. Repositionable wall coverings, like SmartStick removable wallpaper from MuralsYourWay.com, make it possible to create a seasonal look with a wall mural — and then remove it and replace it with something different when the season changes.

A patented adhesive allows you to easily place the repositionable wall covering on virtually any smooth, flat surface, from windows to walls. You can pull it down, reposition it elsewhere, even fold it up and store it in a drawer for use next year. A wide variety of designs mean you can find something to fit your seasonal decor, and if you don’t see anything you like, you can customize by submitting your own original photo through the website.

(ARA) – Before you head to the mall or hop online to make your next purchase, take a minute to review your shopping methods to make sure you aren’t putting yourself at risk of identity theft.

Identity theft expert John Sileo and Deluxe Corporation, a leading growth engine for small businesses and financial institutions, offer the following tips to avoid becoming an identity theft victim.

1. Keep tabs on personal items at home and at the office. The technology we have at our disposal has given thieves even more ways to access our personal information.

2. Take care with debit cards and checks. High-security checks with visible fibers, watermarks and hologram features are a good option if you choose to pay by check.

3. Consider leaving personal items you don’t need at home when you shop.

4. Avoid using public Wi-Fi for holiday shopping.

5. Avoid providing your personal information over email and to social networking sites.

6. Monitor your accounts. Consider adding text or email notifications for purchases made on your accounts for easy and instant monitoring.

7. Strengthen your passwords. Mix in capital letters and numbers to create passwords that are more difficult to hack.

(ARA) - Teens are always dreaming big around the holidays, and see this time of year as the perfect opportunity to put big-ticket electronics or sought-after concert tickets on their wish lists. How can you give your teens gifts they really want without breaking the bank? Here are a few fun gift or stocking stuffer ideas that are sure to please your teen and your wallet alike.

For the “bottomless pit”
Slide a great-tasting, protein-rich snack, like Matador Beef Jerky, in their stocking. Available in a variety of flavors, these tender snacks require no refrigeration, making them a convenient grab-n-go snack for teens on the move.

For the movie buff
A Friday night at the local movie theater is often a favorite pastime for teens. Help them celebrate the cinema by stuffing their stocking with a movie gift card.

For the techy
Make sure the tech-savvy teen on your gift list is well equipped with the latest mobile apps for their smartphone. Smartphone apps make great holiday gifts and cater to an unlimited number of interests and hobbies.

For the music-loving fitness junky
Pair your teen’s enjoyment for exercise and music with a gift that keeps on giving – lightweight headphones.

(ARA) - Consumers are brewing up personalized specialty coffee drinks on par with those in high-end restaurants and coffee shops. In fact, “do-it-yourself flavor” is among the top 10 beverage trends of the year, according to The Food Channel, a leading online source for food industry trends.

Hot-coffee indulgence. According to the National Coffee Association gourmet coffee continues to be a significant portion (37 percent) of total coffee consumed.

Choose to brew your way. To make great coffee, start with the right coffeemaker. Look for one that fills easily and lets you create large or small batches and different brew strengths. For instance, Calphalon's Quick Brew 12-cup Coffee Maker offers both regular or bold custom brew settings. Learn more at www.calphalon.com.

Add cream to your cup. Once you’ve brewed your coffee, personalize it further with coffee creamers.

Make it special. Many specialty coffee drinks are also easy to make at home, such as mocha coffee, gingerbread coffee, almond coffee and Irish coffee.

Create a new blend. Research shows more coffee lovers are buying whole beans and grinding them at home for a fresher, richer flavor.

So go ahead and turn yourself loose in the kitchen. It’s easier than ever to customize your cup.

(ARA) - From baking cookies with loved ones to caroling through the neighborhood or celebrating with family and friends, fond memories of holiday traditions abound. Each year, scents, sights and sounds promote the season’s spirit – continuing long-standing traditions and creating new memories.

One of the safest ways to recreate holiday memories is with scented, wickless candles. With no wick and no flame, there’s no worry or mess. After selecting a favorite seasonal fragrance, it’s easy to place a cube or two of the scented wax into a decorative, ceramic candle warmer. Just one whiff and you are on your way down memory lane.

“A festive, welcoming atmosphere stimulates our senses and reminds us of holidays past as we celebrate with our family and friends,” says Heidi Thompson, president and co-owner of Scentsy, a leader in home fragrance. “A home filled with classic holiday scents not only evokes memories but inspires new seasonal traditions for young families."

Enjoying the scents, sights and sounds of the season is simple. To learn more about how to fill your home with festive fragrances and decorate with wickless candles, visit www.Scentsy.net.

(ARA) - Intel recently commissioned a study of 1,000 American teens aged 13 to 18, to better understand how to get more of them interested in engineering as a career. The results suggest that exposure to any facts about engineering may inspire nearly half of teens to consider engineering.

Here are six proactive tips for parents and teachers to help students consider a career in engineering:

1. Help kids understand what engineering is all about.
Explain the different types of engineers that exist, such as chemical, agricultural, sound or computer.

2. Make engineering more personal.
Do you have a friend or colleague they could meet and ask questions, or job shadow?

3. Emphasize how engineers can play a role in making the world a better place.
For example, explain that engineers were responsible for saving the trapped Chilean miners last year.

4. Reframe the difficulty of engineering as a positive challenge, a badge of honor.
Most adults know that succeeding at something you thought was hard is one of the best feelings in the world.

5. Talk dollars and cents.
Half of the top 20 best-paying college degrees are in an engineering field.

6. Explain that engineers help our country.
More children becoming engineers will help America remain the world’s leading innovator.

(ARA) - As you prepare yourself and your home for colder temperatures, look for energy-efficient products that offer energy savings blended with tasteful designs. By making smart decisions, you can be sensible, yet super stylish as cold weather, holidays and friends arrive.

The place to start: your front door. Create a welcoming first impression by replacing an old, unsightly entry door with a stylish, more energy-efficient one. Pella Windows and Doors offers ENERGY STAR-qualified entry doors that can help you save energy and potentially lower your utility bills.

Create a cozy, energy-efficient home
During cold weather, keep window treatments open during the day to capture the sun’s heat and close them at night to help keep heat inside. During warmer months, close the blinds, shades or curtains during the heat of the day to reflect the sun’s heat away from your home’s interior.

Another smart energy investment is choosing double- or triple-glazed windows with low-emissivity (low-e) coatings to improve energy efficiency and reduce heating and cooling costs.

Regardless of the type or style of windows and doors you choose, it’s essential that they are installed properly for best performance in sealing out air and moisture. For more information, visit Pella.com.

(ARA) – Making dinner at home feel special doesn’t need to eat up a lot of time or money. Whether you’re serving a feast for the whole family or making a romantic meal for an at-home date night, these simple ideas can help make dining at home feel like a night out.

One of the reasons people love dining out is the chance to eat something they normally wouldn’t make at home. Making some of those restaurant favorites in your own kitchen isn’t as difficult as you might think. By adding a delicious, easy-to-make dining-out treat to your at-home menu, you can give your meal restaurant quality flair.

One restaurant staple is the bread basket. You can create your own version with take-and-bake options, like New York Brand Garlic Knots. Found in your grocery store’s freezer aisle, New York Brand Garlic Knots are hand-tied and contain no trans fat and no high-fructose corn syrup, but pack all the flavor and appeal of this traditional restaurant favorite. What’s more, they’re ready – from freezer to table – in about five minutes. Make your meal extra special by serving your Garlic Knots with your favorite pasta or homemade pizza with a marinara dipping sauce.

For simple recipe ideas, visit www.newyorkfrozen.com.

(ARA) - Bounce back from winter break with the tools you need to succeed. Smartphones empower you to do it all, whether staying on top of your academic work, never missing a social event, or helping nail down the perfect internship opportunity.

Get more done: With calendars, email and instant messaging, smartphones allow you to keep track of classes, be in touch with professors, and set up club meetings. You can maintain your busy social life too. Applications like Foursquare and Poynt for BlackBerry let you share where you are and what you’re doing, and chat with friends within the apps.

Consolidate: Smartphones keep all of your information in one place. With BlackBerry Tag, you can collaborate even better by sharing contact information, photos, documents, URLs, and other files by tapping one handset against another.

Be inspired: Smartphones empower you to achieve your goals. Use the Web browser to search for internship opportunities on-the-go, network and stay connected with apps like LinkedIn, and update your resume with Docs to Go. Follow your passion with challenges like BBM Generation. Celebs look for the next big thing on college campuses in entrepreneurship, music, sports, fashion, film and pop culture, and competitors use smartphones to show off their innovations.

(ARA) - For empty-nesters, it's easy to find redecorating options that pack grown-up appeal without a grown-ups only price-tag. You can make over bedrooms and play rooms with a few budget-friendly tricks.

Walls
If you’re afraid of committing to wallpaper, repositionable peel and stick wallpaper is a great option for creating a unique decorator feature in a room. Whether you're looking for beach wall murals to evoke the relaxed feeling of your last tropical vacation, or a city skyline to create a sophisticated aura, you can find many options online at websites like DecorPlace.com.

Entertainment
Bring in that big-screen, high-def TV you didn't buy before because you couldn't bear the thought of sticky fingerprints all over it. Buy that awesome surround-sound system you passed on for years because you feared how it would sound with your kids' favorite cartoon blasting out of the speakers.

Bathroom
If you've held off on buying new towels, bath matt and a shower curtain until there were no more teenagers in the house to mess them up, it's time to treat yourself. While you're at it, replace the utilitarian shower head with a luxurious multi-head unit or a rainfall shower head.

(ARA) – The holiday season is here and the pressure to find that perfect gift for everyone on your list now has an overbearing timestamp.

But fear not. The following list of gift ideas is sure to make this year’s holiday gift giving much less daunting.

For the snacker
Satisfy your snack lover with the gift of guilt-free snacking this holiday season. Slide a bag of Jack Link’s Jerky in your snacker’s stocking. Made with premium cuts of beef, pork, turkey or chicken, Jack Link’s snacks come in more than 100 textures and flavors to choose from.

For the angler
Make sure the angler on your wish list has the latest go-to lure from Rapala – the authority on fishing – with the Rippin’ Rap. This highly versatile bait features a tall, thin bodied, lipless design that cranks, swims and rips its way into the thick, along rock cover, over structure and anywhere in between.

For the bookworm
This year, pair your loved one’s favorite hobby with a little functionality in the form of an e-reader. Today, there are more choices than ever before, so e-readers can be personalized to meet every bookworm’s needs.

For more information and gift ideas, visit www.JackLinks.com or www.Rapala.com.

(ARA) - Some 39,000 U.S. troops will be headed home from Iraq by year’s end. Many will begin the difficult process of transitioning out of military life – including starting a second career. Some cities offer military veterans better employment opportunities than others.

In response, USAA and Military.com have commissioned a list of Best Places for Military Retirement: Second Careers. In addition to location, there are other factors that can help or hurt a veteran’s transition. June Walbert, a certified financial planner practitioner with USAA, offers these helpful tips to make your transition doesn’t wreak havoc on your finances.

* Deliver the goods. Many military retirees haven’t interviewed for a civilian job in decades, if at all. Government programs such as the Transition Assistance Program and Transition Boot Camp are a must.

* Build a transition fund. It’s a wise idea to have nine to 12 months of living expense money saved to bridge any potential financial gaps.

* Get it covered. Life insurance is often overlooked during transition, likely because it’s unpleasant to consider one’s premature demise.

This transition period also is an ideal time to take a retirement snapshot and assess your goals. Congratulations on ending one career and starting another.

(ARA) – The holiday season is a time for fun, family and food. Don’t let the holidays weigh you down; here are a few tips for how to stay fit and energized throughout the harried holiday season.

Smart snacking
Satisfy your hunger before parties with a protein-rich snack, like Jack Link’s Teriyaki Beef or Jack Link’s Cholula Hot Sauce Beef Jerky. Made with premium cuts of beef, pork, turkey or chicken, these snacks are naturally high in protein and low in fat, calories and carbs, making it a smarter snacking choice.

Hit the gym
Whether you’re looking to tone up or slim down this holiday season, there is sure to be a fitness center near you that will meet all your exercise needs. Many fitness centers are open 24 hours a day, so you can slip in your 30-minute workout when it’s convenient for you.

Drink up
Most holiday get-togethers offer a variety of beverages to satisfy every guest, such as wine, spirits, eggnog, soda or coffee. Pair your beverage of choice with a healthy glass of water.

Tally it up
Wearing a heart rate monitor, fitness watch or pedometer is a great way to track your progress before, during and after your daily workout.

(ARA) - As winter approaches and the outdoor temperature drops, energy consumption is on the rise. Homeowners can implement these five tips to help reduce their home’s energy use and costs, yet maintain a warm and comfortable indoor environment, this winter.

Energy audit
A professional energy auditor will check a home’s exterior and interior room-by-room for undetectable energy wasters. A professional will also review your recent utility bills before recommending ways to decrease household energy consumption.

Lighting
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, switching from incandescent light bulbs to more efficient compact florescent bulbs (CFLs) or light emitting diodes (LEDs) can save up to $50 a year in energy costs.

Water heating
Lowering the thermostat on your water heater by 10 degrees can help save between 3 and 5 percent in energy costs.

Indoor heating
Install a programmable thermostat like the AccuLink(TM) Platinum ZV Control from American Standard Heating & Air Conditioning that allows homeowners to create heating schedules for when no one is home ensuring greater energy efficiency and enhanced indoor comfort. Learn more at www.americanstandardair.com.

Insulation
A home energy auditor can help identify how much insulation you currently have and how much you need, in addition to which type of installation to install.

(ARA) - Hearing loss isn’t a harmless condition to be ignored. In fact, hearing loss often coexists with other serious health problems. And a growing body of research indicates that there may be a link. Studies show that people with heart disease, diabetes, chronic kidney disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and depression may all have an increased risk of hearing loss.

When left untreated, hearing loss alone can lead to a wide range of physical and emotional conditions. Impaired memory and the impaired ability to learn new tasks, reduced alertness, increased risk to personal safety, irritability, negativism, anger, fatigue, tension and stress are among its more common side effects. But when untreated hearing loss coexists with a chronic illness, the likelihood is all the greater that the individual will experience exacerbated levels of stress and diminished quality of life.

Here’s the good news: Research also indicates that professionally fitted hearing aids can help improve quality of life for people with chronic diseases when hearing loss does coexist.

The Better Hearing Institute encourages people to take a free, quick, and confidential online hearing test at www.hearingcheck.org to determine if they need a professional hearing check. For more information on hearing loss, visit www.betterhearing.org.

(ARA) - The past few years have been hard on the American pocketbook – and psyche. Many of us have had to curtail spending for quite some time, and with the holiday season (read, shopping season) coming up fast, we’re itching just to let go and spend like it’s 1999.

But be wary shoppers, warns June Walbert, a certified financial planner with USAA. Don’t let what she calls “budget fatigue” seduce you into spending beyond your means.

* Be realistic about your financial situation. The way to minimize huge January bills is to make a list and stick to it once you get to a store or online shopping site. “If folks needed to be on a strict budget last year, they probably need to stay on one this year,” Walbert says.

* Pay with debit. “I love debit cards," Walbert says, “because if you don’t have money in the bank, your transaction is not approved.” But even if it is approved, that doesn’t mean you can afford a particular purchase.

* Layaway. For those who already know what they want to buy, Walbert believes layaway shopping is a good option. “It allows you to start your shopping early, lessen the financial demands that the holidays bring, and you can still get the gift you want,” she says.

(ARA) – Losing weight is one of the most commonly made New Year’s resolutions. While dropping a few pounds has many benefits, addressing other health issues, like your hearing health and psychological well-being, can make equally compelling New Year’s resolutions.

Here are five health-related resolutions you should consider for 2012:

1. Resolve to take care of your hearing health.

Have your hearing professionally tested every year. If you’re diagnosed with hearing loss, talk to your health care provider to determine if a hearing aid will help you. Hearing aids are now more discreet, versatile and effective than ever thanks to advances from manufacturers like Starkey. The hearing aid maker’s Wi Series employs wireless technology, enhances TV and radio listening, and eliminates the need for manual adjustments. In addition, all of its hearing aids including Wi Series and X Series can help reduce background noise while preserving speech understanding.

2. Resolve to take care of your emotional health.

3. Resolve to take care of your bone health.

4. Resolve to take care of your feet.

5. Resolve to get more rest.

(ARA) - The beginning of the new school year means busy mornings for both mom and the kids. We rush out of bed, shower and get dressed, wake up the kids and give them breakfast, and make sure they catch the bus on time. The routine may be chaotic, but it gets both you and the kids on track and helps you stay on schedule for the rest of the day.

But no matter how well-organized we are during those first weeks of school, just when we think we have our mornings under control, autumn activities kick in. That means an even busier schedule of school, after-school lessons, club meetings, sports practices and homework. With the holidays just around the corner, it’s only going to get more hectic.

If you've fallen off your morning routine, there are ways to climb back on. One way is, don’t skip breakfast. Kids can be thrown off schedule easily, especially when it comes to eating breakfast. Make it easy for your child to start the day with breakfast by providing items that taste good and provide essential nutrients. A quick, nutritious way to start the morning is with Carnation Breakfast Essentials drinks. Each serving has two times the protein of an egg and two times the calcium of a standard 6-ounce cup of yogurt, plus 21 vitamins and minerals.

(ARA) – The uncertain economy has reminded many Americans of the importance of keeping an eye on their financial health. Fortunately, technology and new federal regulations have made it easier than ever for consumers to keep track of two very important elements of their financial well-being: their credit report and score.

While learning what’s on your credit report and how it impacts your score is easier than ever, sometimes understanding that information is not so simple. In fact, more than a third of adults (37 percent) say they don’t know their credit score, and 64 percent have not ordered a copy of their credit report in the past year, according to a 2009 survey by the National Foundation for Credit Counseling.

Times are changing, however, and more consumers are expressing an interest in credit education. Experian responded by launching its Credit Educator program, which provides participants with a one-on-one telephone based education session with a U.S.-based agent. The consumer receives a copy of his or her Experian credit report and VantageScore, as well as a detailed review of each section of the report, a discussion of how credit works, how items on the report affect the credit score, and guidance for maintaining a healthy credit profile. Visit www.Experian.com to learn more.

(ARA) - When it comes to holiday leftovers, many of us secretly relish that slice of cold turkey or ham the next morning, and savor how reheating just enriches the flavor of those candied yams. Before you take that first bite, it’s important to remember that proper care can help ensure the leftovers you love stay safe, edible and bacteria-free.

The Institute of Food Technologists (IFT), which shares food facts and safety tips for consumers on its website, IFTfoodfacts.org, cites three key areas for handling leftovers safely: proper refrigeration, storage containers and heating.

Chilling food promptly after cooking and then placing in the refrigerator is both safe and energy conscious. The temperature in your refrigerator should be at 40 degrees Fahrenheit (0 degrees Celsius) or lower. It’s best to use an appliance thermometer to make sure you have the correct temperature rather than relying on refrigerator controls and displays.

Generally, food can go in the refrigerator when it’s reached a temperature of 90 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit — the dish should be just warm to the touch.

When it’s time to serve those leftovers again, a thermometer is the best way to ensure food has been heated to a safe temperature. Most foods, especially meats, should be heated to 165 F in the center. Bring sauces, soups and gravies to a boil. Never reheat leftovers in crock pots, slow cookers or chafing dishes.

(ARA) - One in five American adults has arthritis, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Yet only 16 percent of those with arthritis are confident they can manage their pain, according to research by the Ad Council.

Regular exercise helps reduce the risk of developing other health problems, and helps manage the disease. No matter your ability level, you can engage in meaningful, beneficial activity to help fight arthritis pain and symptoms.

The Arthritis Foundation offers some physical activity tips for people of all mobility levels:

* If you’ve been sedentary, starting out gently is essential. Talk to your doctor about what types of activities will be appropriate for your mobility level. He or she may advise you to begin with simple, low-impact exercises, such as walking or water aerobics.

* The Arthritis Foundation recommends at least two hours and 30 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity, or one hour and 15 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity every week. You should do at least 10 minutes at a time and spread your activity throughout the week. Those with moderate levels of mobility should be able to achieve this goal, provided they choose activities appropriate for their overall health and fitness level.

* Incorporating a mix of different activities will not only keep you moving, but can enhance your enjoyment of your exercise time. Consider including in your routine exercise like jogging, swimming or cross-country skiing and higher-impact sports such as basketball, tennis or volleyball.

You can learn more about osteoarthritis at www.FightArthritisPain.org.

(ARA) - Whether hosting a holiday meal for the family or an open house for the neighborhood, entertaining can be stressful – especially during the holidays when there’s so much pressure to make everything perfect.

Ginny Bean, founder of Ginny’s catalog and Ginnys.com, offers some simple tips on how to make entertaining more enjoyable for all involved.

Make a plan: Make a to-do list and set deadlines. Doing as much as possible in advance will make the day of the party that much easier.

Gather your tools: Once the menu is set, review your tableware, serving dishes and cookware to make sure you have what you need.

Make the most of your space: The size of the meal may expand during the holidays, but cooking and serving space doesn’t. A countertop toaster oven or high-wattage double burner can be a lifesaver for expanding oven and stovetop capacity.

Decorate for the senses: Use scented candles to provide a warm glow and fill your home with seasonal wafts of cinnamon, mulberry or evergreen.

Enjoy the results: Don’t be so busy playing hostess that you forget to enjoy yourself. Bean recommends organizing the kitchen so that the bulk of the clean-up can be done later.

(ARA) - Nothing ruins a perfectly fine day quite like a headache. The pain can be impeding, disorienting and sometimes even nauseating. Understanding different headache causes and treatments can help individuals be prepared.

Tension headaches, otherwise known as “stress” headaches, are the most common among adults. Symptoms include mild to moderate pain across the forehead or on the sides and back of the head and neck.

Migraine headache symptoms may involve moderate to severe pain. Patients who encounter sensitivity to light and sound may also experience nausea and dizziness.

Sinus headaches occur when a person’s sinus passages become inflamed or clogged, causing a feeling of pressure in the face.

“There are a number of very effective over-the-counter first-line treatments available to address the symptoms of headaches,” says Dr. Gary Ruoff, a physician certified in headache management and the author of numerous articles on headaches and pain management. “In fact, I recommend many of the ‘store-brand’ pain relievers sold at leading retailers and pharmacies, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen.”

Allegan, Mich.-based Perrigo is a pharmaceutical company that manufactures and distributes most of the over-the-counter medications found under store-brand labels at leading national retailers, grocers and pharmacies.

(ARA) - TD Ameritrade offers 10 suggestions to help you make sure you can effectively handle your personal and family finances following a major life change like death of a spouse or divorce:

1. Create a detailed household budget.
2. Compile all your financial documents, make copies and store them with your attorney or place them in a safe deposit box that you both can access.
3. Conduct an inventory of marital assets.
4. Determine medical expenses and other annual costs for your family such as activities fees for your children and gym memberships.
5. Review all your debt including mortgages, student loans, car loans and credit cards.
6. Make sure each person is aware of how you file your tax returns and your tax filing status.
7. Discuss long-term savings plans and goals, including retirement and college savings plans.
8. Review beneficiary designations in your will and update if necessary.
9. Consider employee benefits for each person.
10. It can be helpful to have an attorney or financial adviser review financial documents and give you advice should you desire it.

TD Ameritrade has also launched a website dedicated to helping you navigate your finances during major life changes. More helpful tips and advice can be found at www.tdameritrade.com/life.

(ARA) – Everyone loves when a family photo turns out just right. But often, the photos you snap (especially photos of little ones and groups) don’t make the cut. Here are a few tips to help any member of the family take wonderful pictures:

* Don’t be scared to be the paparazzi. Keep your camera handy at all times and snap lots of photos.

* Lights, camera, action. If you’re taking photos outdoors, do it either early in the morning or late in the afternoon. If you are shooting indoors, see which time of day the room lights up the most and choose that time for the photo shoot.

* Give babies a comfortable place to lounge. Newborns can be placed in a comfortable (and photo friendly) place like the Boppy Newborn Lounger. This pillow has a recessed interior so baby can snuggle comfortably in it while you snap away. Cover it with a white sheet for a neutral background.

* Be aware of the background. It’s easy to focus on a great smile while forgetting about what might be in the background of a picture. Make sure backgrounds are simple and don’t distract from the main attraction – the people.

(ARA) - In a society focused on youth, aging remains a fact of life. Thankfully, scientific advancements and product innovations make it easier than ever to diminish dreaded signs of aging.

Thinning hair is considered to be one of the most worrisome signs of aging, second only to wrinkles. In a study conducted by Nioxin, the No. 1 stylist choice for thinning hair, it was discovered that women are particularly apprehensive about seeing their locks lose density.

Leading dermatologist Dr. Valerie Callender shares her top tips for looking youthful.

*Get thicker, fuller-looking hair: Full, healthy hair is the ultimate sign of youth. But as many as three out of four people in the U.S. experience hair thinning. “Thinning hair can be a result of poor scalp health,” says Callender. “So it’s important to revive the scalp with added nutrients.”

*Eat right: A healthy diet affects not only weight, but can help maintain healthy, lustrous hair and glowing skin as well. “The right diet nourishes the entire body from the scalp down,” says Callender.

*Maintain a white, healthy smile: Yellow teeth can make you appear older than you are. Be sure to get cleanings at least twice a year and floss at least once a day to keep your smile healthy and youthful.

(ARA) - From an invigorating spray that kick starts the morning to an enveloping waterfall that washes away a long day, today’s showers offer luxurious experiences to meet every desire. With a little planning and the right products, you can create a personal oasis. Even small choices, like showerheads and accessories, can instantly upgrade any bathroom.

For homeowners looking to conserve water, new showerhead technology is offering a variety of efficient water flows without sacrificing performance. Creating a luxurious spray no longer translates into wasted water.

When functionality is top of mind, handheld showerheads with slide bar mounting systems on the wall offer a great solution as they cater to a variety of needs.

If you’re hoping to create a spa-like experience, today’s custom shower systems often combine wall-mounted body sprays, handheld sprayers and high-performance showerheads to transform the shower into a relaxing getaway.

Many custom systems offer a variety of styles and finishes that also coordinate with bathroom faucets and accessories to create a cohesive decor. The sleek, sculptural Sirius Collection from Danze, includes a shower system, faucets, and accessories like towel bars and shelves to carry your unique style beyond the shower walls.

For more information on the variety of new shower systems, accessories and technology, visit danze.com.

(ARA) – The majority of homeowners use the garage as the main entrance into their homes, making the garage door and its opener imperative to the security of the home.

Before, garage doors only opened and closed to let your car in and out of the garage, and you had to be there to do it. But garage door openers have improved dramatically in the last decade to do more.

* Control from anywhere around the world: Garage door openers are high tech now, and the LiftMaster openers with MyQ Technology allow you to control your garage door – as well as other household items – from inside your house, while at the office or even from halfway across the world by using your computer or smartphone.

* Timers for closing – New openers allow you to customize the settings on your garage door opener to ensure that the door will close after one minute, five minutes or even 10 minutes of being open.

* Power out? Not a problem – The harsh winter weather can leave many homes without power for extended periods of time. LiftMaster openers are equipped with battery backup, which is very useful during a power failure in severe weather conditions.

(ARA) - Years ago Americans used to eat plenty of omega-3s. Today, given our diet of highly processed foods, we don’t. Studies suggest that’s a cause for concern. Omega-3s have a remarkable impact on the body, especially as it relates to boosting brain health.

There are three key omega-3s: DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), ALA (alpha-linolenic acid) and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid). DHA offers brain, eye and heart health benefits. EPA has been shown to support heart health, and may also be beneficial for some autoimmune and inflammatory disorders while ALA has been shown to help lower the risk for heart disease.

Many egg producers are now offering omega-3 fortified eggs. The typical American consumes only 80 milligrams of DHA daily, far less than the daily recommendation of 200 milligrams of DHA omega-3. Some populations have even higher DHA recommendations – for example, at least 300 milligrams per day of DHA is recommended for pregnant and nursing women.

To increase DHA levels in eggs, a sustainable, vegetarian source of DHA omega-3 from algae called life’sDHA is now being used. Three egg producers offering algal DHA-fortified eggs are Oakdell Egg Farms (www.oakdell.com), Gold Circle Farms (www.goldcirclefarms.com) and ISE America (www.iseamerica.com). These brands contain more than 100 milligrams of DHA per egg – two eggs would meet the suggested daily allowance for DHA.

(ARA) - Across the nation, both building professionals and consumers are embracing the idea of sustainable building practices.

Green building brings together a vast array of practices and techniques to reduce and ultimately eliminate the impacts of buildings on the environment and human health. It often emphasizes taking advantage of renewable resources, such as using sunlight to generate solar power and using plants to reduce rainwater run-off.

According to the Energy Information Administration, the demand for green homes is expected to rise 900 percent in the next five years.

In the home, using energy efficient appliances can dramatically reduce energy waste and cut costs. Companies like Miele offers a full range of Energy Star rated appliances for every room in the house from the kitchen to the laundry room.

For example, Miele offers induction cooktops, which use a non-contact method of heating using magnetic fields to transfer energy directly to cookware. The cooking surface is cool in operation and only generates heat where the pan sits on it. As soon as the pan is removed, the flow of heat stops immediately.

For more information on the various types of energy efficient appliances available, visit www.mieleusa.com.

(ARA) - With a growing emphasis on eco-conscious living, homeowners recognize the importance and value of having an energy efficient home.

“Today’s homeowners are looking for ways to improve their home’s energy performance,” says Jery Y. Huntley, president and CEO of the Vinyl Siding Institute (VSI), the trade association for manufacturers of vinyl and other polymeric siding and suppliers to the industry. “A common problem with homes today is the thermal bridging effect, which can rob a home of heat and waste energy and money.”

In thermal bridging, the studs act as a passageway for heat to escape. Most insulation helps seal wall cavities, but the wall studs on either side of the cavities are often left exposed, reducing the insulating value of the entire wall.

“Continuous wall insulation is crucial to fully seal the exterior and protect against heat loss,” says Jerry Blais, vice president of marketing for Ply Gem, a leading manufacturer of home remodeling and building products. “Insulated siding is one solution that helps reduce the impact of thermal bridging, adding a blanket of insulation over the exposed wall studs.”

Download a free copy of Insulated Siding as Home Insulation: Guide for Users and Energy Raters, published by the VSI, available at www.insulatedsiding.info.

(ARA) - When you open your home to family and friends this holiday season, you want to give your guests the best impression possible. But, it’s likely that you might not have everything that you need to accommodate your visitors.

Here are a few things you can do to make your holiday event one to remember:

* Not enough seating? Consider renting some tables and chairs. It’s better than having to haul the card table up from the basement and offering your guests a cold folding chair.

* Set your table with the latest styles of linens, china and silver.

* Don’t forget that elegant lighting and centerpieces will go a long way to creating the perfect look and feel for a holiday gathering.

* Add some extra flair to your event and rent a champagne fountain or margarita machine.

* The outside of your home is the first impression. Make sure that your outdoor decorations are just as elegant and beautiful as the ones inside.

Your local rental store has everything you need, saving you time, money and stress. To get a better idea of what types of items you can rent for parties and to locate a store near you, visit www.rentalhq.com.

(ARA) – Title – or “brand” – washing occurs when a seller takes steps to hide the damaged or totaled condition of a vehicle. When a vehicle is damaged or declared a total loss due to flood, fire, accident, natural disaster or other circumstance, the state in which it’s titled will “brand” the title, noting the condition on the document. Unscrupulous sellers circumvent the branding by repairing or camouflaging the damage and then titling the vehicle in a different state.

During the first six months of 2011, 257,245 vehicles were initially branded and then transferred or retitled in a second state with a clean title, according to the AutoCheck vehicle history report database. In 2008, that happened to just 185,000 vehicles.

You can protect yourself from the risk of buying a title-washed vehicle by purchasing a vehicle history report. Most title-washed cars keep their original vehicle identification numbers (VIN), which is all you need to order an AutoCheck (www.autocheck.com) report.

The report includes information on the status of the title (including if it’s been branded), a check of possible problems, an odometer check, the history of how the vehicle was used (as a rental or private vehicle) and any events, such as accidents or flood damage that have been reported on the vehicle. You’ll also get the ZIP code of where the vehicle has been registered, and you can use online resources to match that information to regions where the vehicle might have been exposed to floods or other natural disasters.

(ARA) - Many people think of their health insurer or health plan as the company that pays their medical bills when they get sick or visit the doctor. They may not realize that their health plan can be so much more.

More employers are recognizing the value of helping their employees remain healthy, productive and on the job, so they offer free health coaching and other wellness programs as part of their health benefits plan.

For example, global health service company Cigna has health coaching programs that can help people quit tobacco, manage stress and even sleep better. Many health coaching programs are offered by telephone, but some are also offered online and at the worksite so employees can meet with their coach in person.

A health plan might also have programs that focus on lifelong health conditions such as diabetes or heart disease that can help people manage them and keep them from getting worse.

Another place that people can turn for help is their employer-sponsored employee assistance program (EAP). An EAP can provide short-term counseling and counselors can refer people to longer-term services when needed. EAPs can also help people find child or elder care, and help connect people to financial or legal services.

(ARA) - In just about every state, city and town in America, there are crazy, weird and outright goofy laws, regulations and ordinances that are still legally valid, but that no one pays attention to, much less enforces, according to FindLaw.com, the nation’s number one online source for free legal information.

Of the thousands of crazy laws still on the books, here are some of the wackiest:

* In Wisconsin, the serving of colored oleomargarine or margarine at a public eating establishment, as a substitute for table butter, is prohibited unless it is ordered by the customer.

* Under the miscellaneous section of its code, the town of Dyersburg, Tenn. prohibits giving an animal or bird tobacco, alcohol or another known noxious substance in city parks.

* In Kentucky, it’s illegal to sell, exchange, display or possess living baby chicks, ducklings or rabbits that have been dyed or colored. Violating this law can lead to a fine of up to $500.

(ARA) – There’s a definite upside to sealing your house up well for the winter: you’ll stay warmer, with less impact on your energy bills. However, the downside is that those actions can negatively affect the quality of the air you’ll be breathing.

Heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems have been shown to act as a collection source for a variety of contaminants that have the potential to affect health, such as mold, fungi, bacteria and very small particles of dust.

"When you flip that switch on your heater, there is a lot of dust and debris – collected in the coils over the summer months – that either burns into fumes or gushes into the house through your vents," says Aaron Marshbanks, board member of the National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA).

The removal of such contaminants from your HVAC system is crucial to improve indoor air quality. Plus, a clean system can save you money on your energy bill.

The most effective way to clean air ducts and ventilation systems is to employ source removal methods of cleaning. This requires a contractor to place the system under negative pressure through the use of a specialized, powerful vacuum.For more information about HVAC cleaning, visit www.NADCA.com.

(ARA) - Nine out of 10 pest management professionals have treated single-family homes, apartments and condos for bed bug infestations in the past year, according to the 2011 Bugs Without Borders Survey by the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) and the University of Kentucky. Infestations are occurring in homes, hotels, hospitals, day care centers, college dorms, schools, movie theaters, department stores and even public transportation in every state.

Don’t think you’re safe from the little blood-suckers just because you travel little or stay at only the best hotels, professionals say. Bed bug infestations have little to do with cleanliness or quality. Bed bugs are notoriously hardy and just a few of the hitch-hiking pests are all it takes to ultimately establish an infestation in your home.

The good news is that home and apartment owners are not without defenses in the battle against bed bugs.

Products like ActiveGuard Mattress Liners, produced by Allergy Technologies, can help you take a proactive position in the fight against bed bugs. The mattress cover slips over the mattress and/or box spring like a fitted sheet, and uses proprietary technology to kill bed bugs and dust mites upon contact. The product not only kills new bed bug infestations, it continues to provide protection beyond the typical bed bug life cycle. ActiveGuard can be used as part of a comprehensive bed bug control program or as a pro-active standalone tool for prevention against bed bugs establishing in bedding. Visit www.allergytechnologies.com to learn more.

(ARA) - Whatever your taste - contemporary or classic, modern or rustic – you want your first home’s interior decor to look polished and put-together. And you’d probably rather not spend a bundle achieving that look.

Do-it-yourself home decor is popular for exactly those reasons. By doing the design and implementation yourself, you can save a lot of money. Plus, many people find that doing it themselves makes decorating their homes an even more personal and rewarding experience.

One option for dressing up your walls is to use removable murals. Wall murals are a favorite design trick of interior decorators. Repositionable murals, like MuralsYourWay.com’s SmartStick line, make it easy to decorate with a mural – minus the commitment or expense of having one professionally painted. The moisture-resistant murals can be placed and then repositioned anywhere in the house, even the bathroom or kitchen (where Mediterranean wall murals are hugely popular).

Turning your first home into a decorator’s showcase doesn’t have to cost a lot. A sense of adventure, some creativity and the willingness to do the work yourself can have your home looking like something from a TV interior design show in no time.

(ARA) - If you’re craving something different this year, personalizing your holiday decor can be a great way to put a fresh face on the season.

Wall murals are a time-honored design trick for completely changing the look of a room. Imagine an idyllic, snow-covered landscape as a backdrop for this year’s Christmas tree. Or perhaps you would like to spice up your New Year’s party with a New York City scene in your dining room. Since you might not want those scenes gracing your walls year-round, removable murals could be a great way to personalize your holiday decor – temporarily.

A new product, SmartStick by MuralsYourWay.com, makes it easy to customize your holiday decor. The removable mural can be repositioned anywhere in the home and can be reused hundreds of times without losing its adhering qualities. The website offers holiday designs to appeal to virtually every taste, and the material is so versatile you could even put it on a window or smooth exterior wall and use it year after year.

(ARA) – While you’re trekking through the malls or cruising websites looking for great holiday bargains, it may be difficult to remember that not everyone around you is as caught up in the holiday spirit as you are. Some of your fellow shoppers may actually be identity thieves looking to parlay the season’s hustle and bustle into an opportunity to steal your personal information and, ultimately, your money.

Fortunately, there are proactive steps you can take now that will help minimize your exposure to identity theft. While these tips from TransUnion are useful year round, they’re especially important during the holiday season:

* When holiday shopping, only carry essential documents with you. Only take your driver’s license and the credit card or cards you intend to use that day. Do not carry your Social Security card, birth certificate or passport.

* Keep a close eye on your credit card bills. This is especially important during the holidays, when close attention can help you catch any charges you don’t recognize on your statement. An added bonus – you’ll also be more aware of how much you’re spending and be better prepared to stay within your holiday spending budget.

* Monitor your credit. Consider enrolling in a credit monitoring service that can alert you via email to changes in your credit report. This way you will know quickly if someone else has tried to open a new credit account in your name.

(ARA) - We look forward to the holidays for many reasons, and the food is often near the top of the list. But while traditional holiday dishes are a familiar comfort that everyone in the family can look forward to, there’s no harm in adding a slight twist to your staples to give them a gourmet touch.

For example, try taking your usual sweet potato recipe to the next level by adding a tablespoon of Nielsen-Massey Tahitian Pure Vanilla Extract with some cooked and crumbled bacon. Whipping your potatoes with those ingredients, some cream cheese and a dash of maple syrup will have your guests asking what you did to make your usual sweet potatoes taste so good.

Whatever your holiday specialty may be, think about ways you can make it extra special this year. Scan your recipe books, look for variation of the recipe on the Internet or just use your imagination and give it a test run before the holidays. Then when it comes time to enjoy, your guests are sure to be impressed.

(ARA) – For millions of allergy sufferers, “allergy season” doesn’t really end when warm weather leaves. The holidays can be particularly difficult, as we visit family and friends and welcome guests – and the allergens they bring with them – into our homes.

The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America offers some advice for helping minimize allergy and asthma triggers in your home this holiday season:

* Thoroughly clean all stored decorations before using them in your home. If one or more of these irritants is a trigger for you, wear a mask while cleaning. When you’re done with the decorations this year, clean them again before you seal them in plastic bags and store them in airtight containers.

* If you will be using a live tree, you can reduce mold problems by thoroughly wiping the trunk with a solution of lukewarm water and diluted bleach (one part bleach to 20 parts water). Before you bring the tree inside, use a leaf blower to remove pollen grains.

* Limit the use of air fresheners like candles, oils and potpourri. If you really want to fill your home with a holiday aroma during a special occasion, try baking using naturally fragrant ingredients like vanilla, cinnamon or citrus.

* A crackling fire can create a warm, festive mood for holiday gatherings. To minimize potential irritation don’t use wood-burning stoves or fireplaces at all. If you use a gas fireplace, check vents and use secured doors, rather than screens, to reduce smoke entering the room.

(ARA) – If you’re having problems hearing but haven’t yet done anything to address them, you’re not alone.

If you’re experiencing trouble hearing, here are five reasons to get help and visit a hearing care professional:

1. Increase your financial growth opportunity. Correcting hearing problems can allow you to perform your job to the best of your ability.

2. Improve your social life. Whether you know it or not, hearing problems can cause you to communicate ineffectively with others, which can hinder relationship-building.

3. Improve your relationship with your family. Communication is even more important in the intimate relationships you maintain with family members.

4. Today’s hearing aids are no longer obtrusive. For example, Starkey offers invisible hearing aids that are worn inside the canal or are hidden behind your ear.

5. Hearing aids work better than ever using sophisticated technology.

When you get help for your hearing problem, you have the potential to improve your life in ways you may have never imagined. The first step is to visit a hearing care professional to find out what course of action is right for you. To find a professional, visit the website of U.S. hearing technology company Starkey at www.starkey.com.

(ARA) - If a flat screen is on your wish list, or you’ll be giving one as a gift, you should keep in mind that how you mount a flat screen is almost as important as the quality of the unit itself.

Wall mounting is a great way to show off a flat screen, and one of the safest ways to reduce the risk of the TV falling on someone. For situations where you’ll be watching the TV from right in front of it, a stationery mount works well. If you need to expand your range of possible viewing angles, look for a full-motion mount that locks securely to the wall, like the Sanus VisionMount series, which are rated by Underwriters Laboratories.

Of course, you’ll want to connect your home theater system, Blu-ray player and game system to your new flat screen and that can lead to a mishmash of cables and components. Consider a specially designed storage unit for components and opt for cables, like the Sanus Elements ELM4308 Super Slim HDMI cable, that are specially designed to work in tight spaces while preserving a neat appearance.

For more ideas on how to mount your flat screen TV, visit www.sanus.com.

(ARA) - If you’re planning a cool-weather vacation, but aren’t necessarily interested in snow sports, you can find a destination that will still allow you to enjoy the great outdoors. Keep three key considerations in mind as you search for your destination: climate, convenience and attractions.

Beach locations, like Myrtle Beach, S.C., can offer a range of outdoor fun, from watersports -- like kayaking and fishing -- that work well in cooler months, to biking, hiking or simply walking on the beach. While the water may be too cold for swimming by late in the season, year-round sun ensures a stroll on the beach will be just as enjoyable in October as it is in spring and summer. Other popular beach activities like bird-watching and crabbing continue year round.

Look for destinations that also offer outdoor fun in a less wild setting, such as golf courses or botanical gardens. The Myrtle Beach area boasts more than 100 golf courses, many open year round. Brookgreen Gardens features more than 300 acres of gardens and outdoor sculpture art, and is open all year. Go to www.visitmyrtlebeach.com to learn more.

(ARA) - Getting behind the wheel for a short trip to the store, or a long ride across the country is easy to do. But staying safe while driving takes a bit more work. However, when it comes to investing in technology that’s designed to make the driving experience safer, Americans admit favoring increased convenience over driver and passenger safety, according to a MetLife Auto & Home American Safety Pulse Poll.

“The most recognized and sought-after technology features tend to be those which promote style over substance, when in reality, it’s the less glamorous features like electronic stability control which make for safer vehicles,” says Bill Moore, president of MetLife Auto & Home.

The majority of Americans do in fact feel safer when their own cars and the cars around them are equipped with the following safety technology:

* Forward collision warning.
* Rear-view camera.
* Electronic stability control.

Despite this, when asked which features they wanted in their next car, more people opted for convenience features such as GPS (63 percent) over safety features like electronic stability control (45 percent).

(ARA) – As the cool temperatures of fall and winter arrive, many people find themselves gravitating toward warming, rich foods. While those comfort foods warm you, body and soul, it’s no secret that many of them aren’t the healthiest foods you could eat. Consider these tips for making more nutrient-rich versions of your favorite comfort foods:

* Mac and cheese. Rich, gooey cheese and bite-sized elbow pasta are good on their own, but together, they’re magic. To bring more nutritional value to mac and cheese, consider switching your pasta from standard semolina to nutrient-packed, sprouted grain pastas like Ezekiel 4:9, which is certified organic, rich with extra nutrients and is a diabetic-friendly food.

* Soups and stews. On a chilly day, few things can make you feel quite as good as a steaming bowl of soup. To make it more heart-healthy, look for low- or no-sodium broth instead of the regular versions. Even if you’re making a classic recipe, like chicken noodle, add “superfood” ingredients like chickpeas or dark leafy greens.

With a bit of smart ingredient selection and tweaks in preparation you can make comfort food classics that are pleasing to the tastebuds as well as the body. For more information about healthy ingredients, visit www.foodforlife.com.

(ARA) - You may have already heard this, but “geek” and “nerd” are no longer disparaging monikers for kids. As technology continues to reach into the lives of children, the kids who are embracing the science behind what makes the world work could play crucial roles as scientists in the future.

One way to get your young child excited about science is to turn them on to programming that helps them explore the exciting careers of real-world scientists. For example, “Sid the Science Kid” on PBS KIDS aims to teach kids and parents that anyone can become a scientist.

New “Sid” episodes airing as part of “Technology and Engineering week” December 5-9 on PBS KIDS will help viewers explore the concepts of engineering, flight, research and computers. If you’re looking for ways to inspire your children, here are seven interesting careers to be featured on “Sid” that you can help your children learn more about:

*Zoologist or marine biologist
* Robot engineer
* Inventor
* Computer engineer
* Astronomer
* Aerospace engineer
* Civil engineer

For more information on “Sid the Science Kid” and other educational materials related to science, visit www.PBSKIDS.org/sid.

(ARA) - Smartphones are about to become much smarter. Here are ways NFC technology can be used for a typical day:

* With NFC enabled smartphones, you can make credit card purchases with the necessary information securely stored on the phone. Simply wave or tap your smartphone across a special contactless reader in a store. The BlackBerry Bold 9900 and BlackBerry Curve 9360 are the first SIM-based NFC smartphones to be certified by MasterCard as PayPass-approved devices.

* NFC can be integrated into the public transit payment systems. People can touch their phones to an NFC tag when boarding trains or buses.

* Instead of using a key, keypad PIN, or ID cards, hold your smartphone up to a pad to unlock. Whether it is to your home, dorm or workplace the possibilities are wide-ranging.

* NFC technology has the potential to allow smartphone users to share information with others. For example, BlackBerry Tag will allow BlackBerry users to share contact information, documents and more by tapping one handset against another.

It will be important to choose a smartphone with a secure platform. This will provide you with the peace of mind to use your NFC enabled smartphone to its full capabilities.

(ARA) - Whether you are male or female, you likely have some key elements to your health routine like exercise, good food, rest and regular medical and dental check-ups. Taking care of your skin probably isn’t a part of this important list — but it should be. Your skin is a living organ and a first line of defense against the outside world. Your skin protects you from environmental toxins and pathogens, gets rid of waste, regulates healthy body temperature and is ultimately the picture of health the world sees.

Men are often guiltier of neglecting healthy skin care than women. Maybe skin care isn't considered manly enough, or maybe it’s simply felt that beyond a good scrub and shave nothing else is needed. And the barrage of high-priced, celebrity-endorsed anti-aging products sold by powerhouse cosmetics companies for women contributes to the notion that skin care is a luxury for well-to-do women rather than an important aspect of a healthy everyday lifestyle.

One hundred percent pure and natural essential oils from a reputable company such as Aura Cacia provide a natural way to scent your own healthy skin care products. For more information and valuable skin care tips, visit www.auracacia.com.

(ARA) - In today's world where news travels at the speed of now, people are searching for balance and purpose, and tapping into the power of plants to cultivate the 'new good life'.

Here is what the trend spotters see for gardening in 2012:

1. Urban knights. A growing army of 'urban knights' are creating oases wherever they can find a patch of earth. They're planting shrubs, flowers, edibles and pop-up gardens on balconies, in alley ways, and on street parklets - even in abandoned buildings.

2. Eco-scaping. From rocks in the garden to rocks in the living room, nature's influence can be found both indoors and out.

3. Occupy local. People are "occupying" local farmers markets and joining CSA's (Community Supported Agriculture) for fresh produce, plants and products.

4. Mindful consumption. According to the 2010 Cone Survey, 83 percent of consumers still want to see more brands, products and companies that support worthy causes. American Beauties Native Plants' partnership with the National Wildlife Federation is a great example of this mind shift. When you buy an American Beauties' native plant like the new groundcover, 'Blue Moon' woodland phlox, for example, a donation is made to NWF's Certified Wildlife Habitat Program.

(ARA) - You're probably unaware that sitting at your computer and typing – something you do every day – can leave you at risk for significant pain and discomfort.

If you are concerned about these repetitive stress injuries, there are things you can do to prevent them.

1. Make sure you are sitting properly at your desk. The best sitting posture brings your knees at or above hip level. Add a foot rest to your desk setup to help accomplish this.

2. Add support for your wrists. Adding a wrist cushion for your mouse can help your hand stay at an appropriate angle when maneuvering your mouse.

3. With a keyboard wrist cushion you can make sure you stay ahead of any potential problems. IMAK Products makes mouse and keyboard cushions which can massage your wrists while typing or using your mouse. Learn more at www.imakproducts.com.

4. Make sure your screen is at eye-level - a stand or phonebook underneath can add needed height.

5. Lower your keyboard. Most likely, your desk is at a good height for writing, but not necessarily optimal for typing. Add a keyboard tray under your desk to place your keyboard in an ergonomically appropriate place.

(ARA) - One time-tested product at the heart of the healthy building trend is ceramic tile. In fact, the Healthy Building Network recommends ceramic tile as an alternative to widely used vinyl, one of the biggest generators of VOCs in home environments.

The experts at Tile of Spain point to the healthful benefits of ceramic tile:

* Cleaner surfaces – Whether you use it on the bathroom floor or the wall of a master bedroom, ceramic tile is cleaner than other traditional surfaces.

* VOC-free – Ceramic tile does not release any VOCs, the most prevalent type of indoor irritant.

* Allergy-friendly – Ceramic tile does not harbor dust, pet dander or other allergens, making it a more healthful alternative for people who suffer from allergies.

* Less places for dirt to hide – New, larger format tiles like Keraben’s Transit Collection that are 33 inches by 97 inches, cover more surface area and require less mortar or grout, meaning there are fewer places for dirt and microbes to hide.

* Eco-friendly – If your health concerns extend to the environment as well, ceramic tile is an environmentally responsible building material.

* Very versatile – It’s now possible to achieve virtually any look with ceramic tile – even the appearance of natural wood.

To learn more about ceramic tile, visit www.tileofspainusa.com.

(ARA) – The process of creating a will and an estate plan can involve a number of complex decisions, ranging from how to distribute a lifetime of assets to giving specific directions to your legal guardian.

Consider these tips from FindLaw.com on how to write a will and create an estate plan:

Get professional help. It’s best to get the assistance of an attorney who specializes in wills and estate planning. Writing a relatively straightforward will, with the assistance of an attorney, will cost between $750 to $1,500.

Legal guardians. One of the most profound decisions you will ever make is who will care for your children in the event of your untimely death. Along with this decision comes providing those legal guardians financial support to care for your children.

Who to include in your will. It’s imperative that you leave very clear and precise instructions for your executor – the person you designate to carry out the directions you outline in your will – to follow. You also will name the beneficiaries who will receive your specific bequests.

Health care directives. As you draw up a will, you should also write up an advanced health care directive, which protects your right to refuse any medical treatment that you do not want, or to request treatment that you do want.

(ARA) – Every day, thousands of speeding tickets are issued. According to various sources, an estimated 40 million speeding tickets are issued each year (one for every five motorists) with an average fine of $150.

What should you do if you’re stopped for speeding? Here are some tips from FindLaw.com, the nation’s leading online source for legal information.

Be familiar with speed limits. You should always be aware of the speed limits on the roads and highways that you drive. Being unaware or unsure is not an excuse.

Turn off your car. If you’re stopped for speeding, here’s what you should do: Pull over quickly and safely, turn off your engine and put your keys on the dashboard, roll down your window and put your hands on the wheel in plain sight of the officer. Be friendly, polite and cooperative, and avoid arguing.

Paying the ticket. If you plead guilty, the court will automatically require you to pay the maximum fine and will record the conviction on your Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) record for a period of years (varies by state). If having a clean record matters to you, you may want to seek the help of an attorney who specializes in traffic violations.

(ARA) – With each passing year, more Americans are turning to the Internet to do their holiday shopping.

While many consumers are familiar with shopping online, it’s still important to take some necessary precautions to protect your privacy, according to Findlaw.com, the Internet’s leading online source for legal information.

Here are tips from FindLaw.com about shopping online this holiday season:

Shop early and save. This may sound crazy, but write up a holiday shopping list as early as possible and start shopping right away to save money and avoid a big bill in January.

Shop reputable online retailers. Shopping online with major retailers poses little risk. If you’re shopping with a lesser-known retailer, look for reviews and ratings on Google about the retailer before shopping.

Secure site. When you place your order, make sure the site where you’re entering your credit card or PayPal information is secure. Always look for an “s” after “http” in the address bar.

Coffee shops and airports. Many people like to head to their local coffee shop and peruse the Internet on the shop’s free Wi-Fi. What many may not realize is that using a free public Wi-Fi network makes it easy for others to access your information.

(ARA) – Being protective goes hand-in-hand with being a parent. But eventually, the day comes when they’re driving to school – not just high school, but college. You might be surprised, but there are actions you can take now that will protect them then – and even beyond.

It might not be something that immediately comes to mind, but taking out a life insurance policy for your children could have lasting benefits for their financial future.

In practical terms, giving your children the gift of a life insurance policy protects them from medical underwriting and high costs. You’ll be establishing the coverage early enough that costs will be lower, particularly in the initial stage, and it can help to keep them manageable further down the road.

Some insurance plans will allow your child to make changes as their life progresses, giving them the chance to increase coverage as they go through life’s milestone events, like getting married or having a child. Premiums will increase with added coverage, but the added costs associated with medical underwriting will be eliminated.

Giving your kids long-term protection when they’re young will ensure that you’re helping to watch out for them, long after they’ve left the nest.

(ARA) - With people holding on to their used vehicles longer, demand is growing for cost-effective, exciting ways to personalize automobiles.

“Customization is a great way to put your personal stamp on a vehicle, and get that new-car excitement without an expensive car payment,” says Steve Meade, who hosts Two Guys Garage on SPEED as “Willie B.” “It’s possible to find ways to customize virtually any make and model to suit your personal sense of style.”

Meade suggests a few cost-effective customizations to consider. Some you’ll be able to do yourself, others may require the help of a professional:

* Upholstery covers
* Floor mats
* Audio
* Lights
* Accessories

You don’t need a new car payment or the makeover budget of a TV show to customize your ride. A few personal touches and a moderate investment can help you upgrade your reliable used vehicle into something that’s a thrill to drive again.

(ARA) – Nearly 251,000 identity theft-related complaints were made to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) in 2010. So it’s no surprise that – for the 11th straight year – identity theft ranks No. 1 as the biggest concern among consumers.

Charles Valinotti, senior vice president with insurer QBE offers tips to help avoid becoming the next victim:

1. Foil the Dumpster divers. Shred all old bank and credit statements and credit card offers before trashing them.

2. Guard your Social Security number. Don’t have it printed on your checks or any other document available to the public.

3. Monitor your credit report. Make sure information is accurate. Consider a service that lets you know if someone is applying for credit in your name.

4. Don’t carry extra credit cards or other identity documents, except when needed. Make a photocopy of all the items you carry in your wallet, especially your driver’s license and credit cards.

5. Never give a credit card number over the phone unless you initiated the call. And examine charges on your credit card statements before paying them.

6. Check into ID fraud protection. This covers expenses related to identity fraud, such as notary costs, certified mail, loan application charges and attorney fees.

(ARA) - There are simple things you can do to help ensure that the right people can enter your home, and also deter those you want to keep out of your home. Here are some home security tips:

Go keyless. Electronic locks provide keyless entry to a home using secure access codes, so there’s no more hiding of keys in places where the wrong person might find them. For example, Schlage electronic locks can be installed quickly with just a screwdriver and allow you to add, change or delete user codes in seconds, ensuring that the people you want to enter your home can come and go as they please. You can also create a temporary code for someone such as a plumber or pet-sitter who needs to enter and leave while you’re away.

Use motion sensors. Available in home improvement stores, these lights can be installed at your entry door or by the garage door, and will turn on automatically when a person or car approaches.

Make your home look lived in. If you keep the drapes closed during the day, it can signal burglars that you’re not home, so go ahead and leave the windows uncovered as if you were there.

(ARA) - With Fall in the air, that means one thing for sports fans: its game time. Between the hard-hitting pro and college football seasons moving into high gear, the excitement of new baseball champs looming, the puck dropping on the hockey season and heart-pounding UFC and boxing cards, sports fans have countless games, matches and battles to enjoy.

If you are going to have friends over to watch the game, a standard-definition TV no longer does the trick. A high-definition (HD) television, particularly LED back-lit, is a must-have for watching any game. HD makes the action look better than ever, but its 3-D that really puts you IN the action.

Smart TVs or Blu-ray players from LG include sports content like MLB.TV and NHL to let you watch games from around the country – particularly helpful if the local team is of no interest to you. If your game isn’t on, you can stream your favorite sports flick with apps from Netflix, Vudu or CinemaNow. Learn more at www.lg.com.

(ARA) - Entertaining friends and family during the holiday season is as customary as drinking eggnog and opening presents. These gatherings usually involve investigating new – and delicious – recipes, decorating the house to the hilt, building the perfect collection of holiday tunes to play and finding fun activities to keep everyone engaged throughout.

The key to successful entertaining over the holidays is preparation. Here are some tips from Mike Wisner, executive chef for kitchen appliance maker LG Electronics USA, to help you throw a great holiday party:

* Map out your meals a few days in advance and don’t feel like you have to cook everything. A double oven range can make your preparations easier. With two separate ovens that can operate independently at different temperatures, LG’s range helps you prepare appetizers and an entree or the entree and dessert at the same time.

* If you’re hosting a gathering with children in attendance, be sure to have some fun movies on hand to keep them entertained. If you want to wow your guests, consider a CINEMA 3D TV and 3D Blu-ray player package from LG. With four sets of polarized glasses and a wide viewing angle, it’s perfect for large groups to enjoy the latest 3D releases.

(ARA) – Fresh food is harder to come by once the last leaves fall and the frost sets in, but there are still a number of ways you can keep your commitment to eating locally alive year round.

Engaging people who are interested in living healthier and greener, Good Housekeeping partnered with LG Electronics this fall on a “Living Greener” initiative, showing consumers across the country how to make the most of local produce and other healthy foods. The program encourages a greener lifestyle, providing consumers with tips and ideas for efficient products, such as LG’s new refrigerator. The refrigerator includes a Smart Cooling System that maintains superior humidity and temperature levels to help keep food fresh longer.

Susan Westmoreland, food director of the Good Housekeeping Research Institute offers these tips to keep eating local even after the growing season is done:

* Support year-round CSAs and farmers markets.

* Make good use of your refrigerator and freezer.

* Can and preserve.

* Stock up on hearty vegetables that last longer.

* Patronize restaurants that focus year-round on the freshest, healthiest ingredients.

(ARA) - With age comes the inevitable anxiety of mental decline. A common misconception is brain health is predetermined and can’t be changed – it’s the “you’re stuck with what you got” notion. But experts suggest brain health can be positively influenced throughout different stages in life.

Four easy steps to a beautiful mind

Step 1 – Get moving
Engage in physical activity for at least 30 minutes a day to encourage new brain cells and connections to form.

Step 2 – Nourish your body and mind
Maximize your intake of DHA found in fatty fish. If you are vegetarian, find it in algal DHA-fortified foods and beverages like juice, milk, eggs and in algal DHA supplements, including the Algal-900 DHA and BrainStrong lines.

Step 3 – Embrace new activities
Commit to lifelong learning, which can take the form of brain-stimulating activities, including reading, creating art, completing crosswords, learning a new language or playing a new instrument.

Step 4 – Expand your social network
Stay socially connected so you feel like you’re a part of something.

(ARA) - Winter break is upon us and students of all ages have cast aside their textbooks, pencils and laptops for several weeks of homework and classroom-free fun.

Here are some fun and active ways to add some adventure to this year’s winter break.

Hit the slopes

Grab a few pals and head to your favorite slopes; remember to pack a few essentials like sunscreen, bottled water and snacks. A day of bombing a snow-covered hill is sure to get your stomach growling, so pack high-protein snacks, like MATADOR Beef Jerky, to fuel your adventure. Choose great-tasting flavors like Original, Teriyaki or Peppered, and your friends will be fighting over who gets to share this snack.

Play broomball – it’s like hockey, only easier

What's a game of hockey sans the puck and ice skates? Meet hockey’s fun-filled cousin — broomball. Played on a hockey rink, broomball is another great game invented by our maple syrup-loving, Canadian neighbors to the north.

Whatever activities you choose, remember there are an endless number of fun things to do to make this winter break a memorable one.

(ARA) – Halloween is a time for crazy costumes, ghost stories, sugar-buzzed kids and all things that go bump in the night.

Here are a few tips to help you create a festive Halloween.

Quick and easy costumes
While purchasing a costume may be the easiest solution, it can be expensive. Instead, consider making a one-of-a kind costume. All it takes is a little creativity and items found around your home.

For hair-raising fun, the folks at Jack Link’s Beef Jerky have made it easy to create a costume of the elusive Sasquatch. Check out JackLinks.com to download a printable Sasquatch mask, iron-on T-shirt transfer and other fun tips.

Don’t be tricked by your treats
To avoid a holiday candy coma, choose non-sugary, protein-rich snacks such as roasted pumpkin seeds, low-calorie beef or turkey jerky or fun-to-eat string cheese. In fact, after carving your Halloween pumpkin, roasting the pumpkin seeds is a fun activity to share with your family.

The great pumpkin
Nothing conjures up memories of Halloweens past like carving jack o’ lanterns. This year, get creative and sketch out a unique design, or use a stencil or pattern as your guide. You can download a variety of free patterns online, including a Sasquatch stencil at JackLinks.com.

(ARA) – Job prospects in many industries have dwindled as the country still struggles with the lingering effects of the recession. But while the economy has undermined opportunity in many industries, it’s also spurred growth in others. Job opportunities for accountants and auditors are expected to grow 22 percent by 2018, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

New emphasis on accountability, transparency and financial reporting will spur the increased demand, the BLS says in the 2010-2011 edition of its Occupational Outlook Handbook, which can be found online at www.bls.gov/oco. The handbook notes that most accounting jobs require a bachelor of accounting degree and that professional certifications, such as a CPA, can help professionals advance their careers.

Fortunately, those seeking a bachelor’s or master of accounting degree have more educational options than ever. Schools like American InterContinental University (AIU) now offer both brick-and-mortar programs and online degree programs in multiple accounting disciplines.

Attending a campus (AIU has facilities in Atlanta, Houston, South Florida and London) offers students a traditional college experience. Not all programs are available to residents of all states. Online programs, however, now also can offer a high level of student support, an interactive experience and 24/7 technical support. In addition to the convenience of online learning, AIU students can receive the support of an admissions adviser, student adviser and career services adviser.

To learn more about accounting degree programs, visit www.aiuniv.edu. You can find disclosures on graduation rates, student financial obligations and more at www.aiuniv.edu/disclosures.

(ARA) - Planning for life’s end is not something we look forward to doing, but creating a concrete plan today helps give us peace of mind.

As one of the country’s best-known hospice and palliative care providers, Hospice of the Western Reserve offers advice for all ages in a booklet called “Courage in Conversation: A Personal Guide.” Here are a few points to consider:

1. Have a plan as to how you will share your wishes. Will you have things written down? With whom will you be talking?

2. Create an environment that is conducive to listening. It is usually helpful to sit down with your loved ones and try to be at the same eye level.

3. Share the information in small segments. Avoid apologizing for the information you are sharing. These are your wishes for one of life’s most important moments.

4. Allow time for your loved ones to process information and respond. This is one of the most important things you can do. They may have questions or feelings to share with you, but may need time to process your desires.

(ARA) - Even if the difficult past few years have taken a toll on your financial profile, you can repair credit. And if you find yourself further along in life without having developed a credit history, don’t think it’s too late to start.

The sooner you start to build – or rebuild – your credit, the sooner you’ll be making a difference in your ability to make important milestone purchases, like cars or a home.

Consider these steps to building a positive financial future through credit:

Using a secured credit card. If your credit isn’t as good as you’d like it to be, or if you’ve never had a credit card, it can be hard, if not impossible, to get one. However, options like Wells Fargo’s Secured Card not only act as a payment option, but as a way to build and repair credit. With a secured card, you deposit funds into an account, which is held as collateral. For more information, visit www.wellsfargo.com/smarter_credit.

Make payments on time – for all your bills. Whether it’s for your credit card, your phone, your electricity, rent or other utilities, it’s essential to not delay payments. Late and missed payments put your creditworthiness into doubt for the ratings agencies that establish your credit score.