St. Louis Home & Happenings - February–April 2023

A note from the editor...

www.STLHandHMag .com

EDITOR IN CHIEF

Wade Brewer

DESIGN

Brian L Spurgeon

WEBSITE & FEEDBACK

www.STLHandHMag.com

Editor@STLHandHMag.com

We are excited to bring you our first issue of 2023 that is jam-packed with information to help you to make this year the year that your home is everything that you want it to be.

If you are wanting to make some minor changes to your home that won't have you living in a construction zone for months, How to Breathe New Life into Your Home Without a Complete Renovation has some great ideas for small projects. If one of your resolutions was to organize your space 5 Ideas for an Organized, Intentional Laundry Space is for you with ideas for taking a cluttered space to magnificent. If you or someone that you know is a true techie, Best of CES: Top Products You Need for Customized Living at Home will make the future come to life with ideas to utilize electronics as entertainment and decor.

Whether you have decided to live a vegan or vegetarian lifestyle, or are simply looking for something new to try for dinner, Meatless Meals Made Easy offers some delicious and unexpected options that will help you to not miss the meat in traditional recipes. Party-Worthy Wine Pairings Perfect for Easy Entertaining will help you to offer options to guests that compliment your menu.

No issue would be complete without informing you of fun and exciting events to do in our area this time of year, and our Happenings section does not disappoint in this edition.

We hope that you enjoy the February issue of St Louis Home and Happenings and look forward to preparing the Spring edition for you.

Self published by Susan Brewer Service First Real Estate. All material herein is copyrighted and all rights are reserved.

Wade

Brewer Editor-in-chief

Local Listings In Your Area

Voted Best Real Estate Agency in St. Charles

Creatively Configure Interior Spaces with Sliding Bypass Door's

How to Breathe New Life Into Your Home Without a Complete Renovation

Top 2023 Kitchen Design Trends Create a Statement, Chef-Inspired Oasis

Kitchen and Home Design Trends Poised for Popularity in 2023

LOCAL and PROUD of it

Eat Local - Plank Road Pizza

How to Maximize the Value and Timeliness of Your Tax Return

2 Steps to Save a Life

Healthy Habits for Your Home

5 Ideas for an Organized, Intentional Laundry Space

Trending Colors and Textures Inspire 2023 Home Design

Managing Your Pet's Weight

Susan Brewer #1 Agent in St. Charles

Buying or Selling a Home

Helping Teens Develope Financial Literacy

Sleep is Good Medicine

Keep Your Car Safer and On the Road Longer

How to Be a Nurturing Plant Parent in 3 Easy Steps

BEST Pizza in St. Charles

1798 BBQ - Eat Local

5 Personalized Ways to Celebrate Galentine's Day

Unexpected Hotel Travel Trends for 2023

Best of CES: Top Products You Need for Customized Living at Home Save Valentine’s Day with These Last-Minute Gift Ideas

Party-Worthy Wine Pairings Perfect for Easy Entertaining St. Louis Happenings - February-April

BEST REAL ESTATE AGENCY

IN ST.CHARLES

Creatively Configure Interior Spaces with Sliding Bypass Door's

(Family Features) Customizing interior spaces to suit your unique needs can be easy and economical with a solution like versatile sliding bypass doors. If you want to create a multi-functional living area, save space, allow more privacy or enhance architectural appeal – or all of these at once – sliding bypass doors can help you achieve your goals. From kitchens to laundry areas, installing bypass doors provides a fast, economical way to adapt floor plans to diverse lifestyles.

Kitchens with adjoining spaces are perfect spots for bypass doors. For instance, Johnson Hardware’s 111SD

Sliding Bypass Door Hardware lets you reconfigure a kitchen and beverage area with a bold functional divider. Holding on-trend glass and metal doors up to 150 pounds each, the hardware lets you tuck away essentials while keeping them within sight and easy reach.

Another solution for closets in hallways and mudrooms is the 138F Sliding Bypass Door Hardware, which also provides versatility and an appealing appearance. Concealing clutter while adding clean lines, it supports most styles of doors weighing up to 200 pounds each.

Inventive down to the last detail, it has a precision-extruded, jump-proof aluminum box track featuring line-design fascia. This fascia hides scratches and fingerprints, plus, it holds paint for the look you want. Tricycle door hangers feature a quick disconnect clip system, making it a snap to mount and dismount door panels. These hangers are also readily adjustable for height in case of settling.

In addition, Johnson’s innovative soft-close feature for smooth, quiet, fingertip-touch door operation is available for a variety of bypass hardware kits, as well as pocket door and wall mount door hardware kits. Soft-close technology slows down door speed gradually, preventing slamming and finger pinching for carefree use.

Ideal for converting a closet into a neat, discrete laundry area, sliding bypass door hardware is right at home in second-floor laundry areas or residences where space is precious, such as condos and townhouses. Bypass doors save 14 square feet of floor space over swinging doors, which can be used for furniture, storage and decor.

Bypass hardware offers many fresh options for configuring interiors. Gliding on separate tracks, bypass doors overlap for wide entryways everyone can easily use and allow quick access to items. When closed, wooden doors offer extra privacy and quiet. Combined metal-and-glass doors create an open-air aesthetic.

For more design ideas to save space with creative sliding door hardware, visit johnsonhardware.com or call 574-293-5664.

How to Breathe New Life Into Your Home Without a Complete Renovation

(BPT) - Do you want a new look for your home in the new year? Perhaps you crave an update but you want to avoid the time and cost commitment of a complete renovation? You may be surprised how a few well-chosen elements can breathe new life into your home.

Interior designers know that strategic updates can revitalize a space without extensive construction. The key is to choose features with designs that speak to you. These items must have provenance and presence to create an atmosphere the moment you enter the room.

CURATED DESIGN

The preferred design aesthetic of a room is highly personal, but all good design follows certain principles. Take cues from experienced designers who know that by selecting a few well-chosen products, you can create ambience that impacts an entire space. The design of the elements should be memorable and draw the eye without being overwhelming.

For example, the Occasion Lighting Collection from Kohler is a simple yet elegant way to transform any

space. This elegant collection of impeccable craft combines sculptural metal frames with light-capturing ribbed glass shades that draw inspiration from the transformative designs of the early 1960s. This is a period of time when interiors were an intercontinental mix of bold color, tapestries, Japanese screens and other treasures to showcase the owner's travels and interests.

This unique collection is engineered with the

same precision as that of fine jewelry making. The interplay between the faceted frames and the sparkling, multidimensional display of light as it cascades through the crystal ribbed shades results in forms that are bold yet sensual, with an undeniable presence.

STRATEGIC UPDATES

Lighting is an accessible and high-impact way to transform a room and stay on budget. Whether it's an eye-catching chandelier, pretty pendants, perfectly placed sconces or functional and fashionable flushmount lighting elements, there's something for every space.

Beyond lighting, there are other strategies that can help you achieve an updated effect without taking on a renovation. Some other methods designers use to transform a room include thoughtfully selecting pieces such as a beautiful area rug, stunning wall art, graceful mirror or tabletop objet d'art.

You can add sophistication, create visual tension and add dramatic impact through color or sculpted form. Keep in mind, the provenance of the pieces selected can be anything from where each was found or made, the artist behind the design, the materials the piece is made from, or the craft employed to create the piece.

Above all else, it's important to be selective. An artful form that has meaning or a story behind it elevates and redefines a space, allowing you to achieve a lot of impact without spending a lot of money. Whether curating the family heirlooms of tomorrow or simply giving your home a refresh by purchasing a pivotal piece, products that make a statement can take your interior to a whole new level in design.

Top 2023 Kitchen Design Trends Create a Statement, Chef-Inspired Oasis

(BPT) - The kitchen isn't just a place where you cook food to nourish your body. It's a place where you gather with friends and family to connect and make memories. Because it's the heart of the home and facilitates so many activities, it's important to consider how your kitchen design can enhance the meaningful moments enjoyed within the space.

With this in mind, many people desire to upgrade their kitchen in 2023. If you're one of them, consider the top trends in kitchen design and how they can enhance your space:

TREND: FOCUS ON FUNCTIONALITY

The kitchen space is significant from an investment point of view, as well as an aesthetic one. Beyond the monetary and cosmetic aspects, it's important to keep in mind the kitchen is also the hardest-working space in the home. The products you select should be beautiful yet durable, and the materials used are as important as the design itself.

As you begin a project, seek options that enhance work areas, ease of operation and convenience. Consider a chef's sink that fits your personal needs, a faucet that

provides multiple water pressures to conserve output or a separate filter faucet to cut down on bottled water consumption. When researching, look for materials that can withstand the rigors of daily use while maintaining their luster and depth of color.

TREND: DESIGNER COLLECTIONS

Upscale collections remove guesswork, resulting in a kitchen that is classic and stylish with products that have the strength and durability to withstand the test of time. These attributes are the goals of expert designer Mick De Giulio, who partnered to create collections with KALLISTA starting in 2011 with the introduction of the Multiere and the Soltiere chef-inspired kitchen sinks and accessories, and the Bacifiore entertainment sink, with the addition of the apron front Bacifiore sink in 2019.

With a career that has spanned over four decades, De Giulio approached his KALLISTA faucet designs as he does all his work, with the eye of an artist, the deft hand of a craftsman and the practicality of an engineer. Aptly named Juxtapose to reference the collection's intriguing mixed metal finish combinations, the faucets' slim profiles and chic details were designed to "bring the soul back into performance products," explained De Giulio.

TREND: MINIMALIST DESIGNS

Expect to see more minimalist designs in upscale kitchen products in 2023 and beyond. Remember, minimalist doesn't mean minimal functionality. The

best products pair superior function to suit modern life with minimalist designs that please the eye and offer understated elegance to a room.

For example, the KALLISTA cold-water Contemporary Filter Faucet features a slim, minimalist design that pairs beautifully with the Juxtapose series. The faucet has a 360-degree swivel spout and requires a water filtration system, such as the KOHLER Aquifer Water Filtration System. This faucet is available in polished chrome, polished nickel, brushed nickel, unlacquered brass, matte black and stainless finishes.

TREND: THOUGHTFUL DETAILS

Like the jewelry that makes an outfit, thoughtfully selected details elevate the kitchen. Many people are putting in coffee/ espresso stations that they use every day and distinguish the space by using expensive tile to define that one small area and set it apart. Complementing products also serve to complete the look, such as finish-matched soap dispensers or handcrafted cabinet hardware.

Intricate tile backsplashes, a statement-making feature wall, updated lighting, fun bar stools, vintage-style table and chairs, and new appliances in a finish appropriate to your fixture and faucet choices will also elevate your kitchen design. An insider note: Expect Mid-century modern aesthetics to continue to be big in 2023 because they tend to embrace minimalist design while maintaining an enduring warmth. This can help guide you when determining the kitchen details.

Kitchen and Home Design Trends Poised for Popularity in 2023

(BPT) - House Beautiful's Whole Home is back for its fifth year, loaded with modern conveniences and timeless charm. Located in the Buckhead neighborhood of Atlanta, this home marks the first time the project has featured renovating an existing property.

If you're planning to build or renovate in 2023, you can find inspiration from this elevated modern Tudor that focuses on living better at home. Keeping that in mind, two of the most important spaces in a home for ease of modern living are the kitchen and the owner's suite.

KITCHEN: ENGLISH VIBES AND UPSCALE APPLIANCES

Indianapolis-based designer Whitney Parkinson took a traditional approach to the kitchen remodel, adding English flair with the high-end chef in mind. The space features warm woods, quartz countertops and antiqued mirror tile that make this brand new kitchen feel like it's been there forever.

Featuring a number of award-winning Signature Kitchen Suite appliances, the kitchen and entertaining spaces are

filled with technology and smart organization.

The oversized eat-in kitchen features the first-of-its-kind 48-inch built-in French Door Refrigerator with a unique combination of precise preservation technology and features, including a dual compressor system with exceptional capacity and functionality in a sleek, innovative design.

Offering several unique design features, the refrigerator can elevate the overall aesthetic of any kitchen and is available in stainless steel and panel-ready options. Its purposeful design offers one of the most versatile and larger width interiors in the industry with a total capacity of 26 cubic feet, Lift and Go drawers, fully adjustable door bins and LED lighting that is hidden away and focused on the food. The WiFi-connected unit includes a Dual Ice Maker with slow-melting, spherical Craft Ice to elevate beverages of all kinds.

Parkinson also selected the Signature Kitchen Suite 48-inch Dual-Fuel Pro Range, the first range on the market with built-in sous vide functionality - in addition to induction and gas, all on the same cooking surface, along with two ovens below. Adjacent to the kitchen is a walkin scullery and pantry, featuring the ultimate chef's tool - the wall oven with Speed Cook, steam-combi, microwave, convection, sous vide and broil - and the advanced PowerSteam ENERGY STAR certified dishwasher, marrying high efficiency, high performance and high style.

OWNER'S SUITE: WALK-IN CLOSETS AND LAUNDRY CARE

One of the primary suite's walk-in closets features the stylish, unique LG STUDIO Styler clothing care system that refreshes, deodorizes and sanitizes clothing with the gentle power of steam. This appliance takes fabric care to the next level with increased capacity for up to five hangers along with a pants press in the door, and an exclusive black tinted mirror for a fulllength reflection.

Also featured in the primary suite and upstairs laundry room is the ENERGY STAR certified LG STUDIO WashTower, a singleunit vertical laundry solution that takes up half the floor space without sacrificing capacity. The smart design features an industry-first Center Controlpanel that offers convenient access to controls (no step stool needed). Plus, its built-in intelligence takes out the guesswork thanks to AI technology that selects optimal washing and drying settings for each load to deliver the best in fabric care.

To explore these rooms and learn more about the appliances and other features, visit HouseBeautiful.com.

LOC

How to Maximize the Value and Timeliness of Your Tax Return

(StatePoint) Research shows that if you’re dreading tax season, you’re not alone.

According to the Pew Research Center, 47% of Americans say they are bothered a lot by the complexity of the federal tax system. Other taxpayers stress out over getting the details right. In a Credello survey, 22% of respondents say not maximizing their refund is their biggest fear around doing taxes, while another 22% said their biggest fear is making a mistake.

“Many Americans rely on their tax refund to make ends meet. Accessing those funds should be fast and easy,” says Chad Prashad, president and CEO of World Finance.

To help you get a handle on your taxes, World Finance is drawing on its 26 years of filing expertise to offer these timely tips:

• Get ready early. As soon as your employer provides your W2, you can file your taxes. Having all other documentation and receipts ready to go will help expedite the process, which means you will get your tax return faster, too. Collect the necessary materials in one place before filing.

• Consider significant life changes. Did you move in 2022? Have a baby? Get married? Change jobs? Each of these monumental life events can have an impact on your taxes, so be sure to disclose these factors when filing or to the professional filing on your behalf.

• Know what’s new. Visit IRS.gov to learn about any changes to tax filings that are applicable to you. A tax services professional can also help you identify relevant updates. World Finance tax pros have year-round training to stay on top of the latest tax filing requirements and are ready to tailor tax services to each tax customer’s financial situation.

• Review and adjust. Once you know what your return is going to be this year, make any necessary adjustments to your W2 to make sure you’re withholding enough during the year. If this is your first year working with a professional tax service, have them review your previous years’ filings as well. You may be able to recover additional refunds if anything was missed. World Finance offers this service for no additional charge.

• Consider a tax refund loan. After filing, you can potentially take out a loan for the amount of your expected refund. This is known as a tax refund loan and an option to consider if you need your refund as soon as possible.

• Work with a professional. Filing your taxes with a software program is a low-cost option, but only if you have time to dedicate to the task, and the know-how to get your biggest possible tax return. Working with a reliable, trusted tax preparation service can help ensure your taxes

are filed correctly, and your return is as substantial as it can be. Look for a service that offers transparent pricing, flexible filing options and same-day Tax Advance Loans, such as World Finance. For more information, visit loansbyworld.com/taxes.

Tax season doesn’t need to create headaches, fears, or anxieties. By gathering important tax documents in advance and understanding your filing and refund options, you can have confidence that you’ve maximized the value and timeliness of your tax return.

2 Steps to Save a Life

The Importance of Hands-Only CPR

(Family Features) More than 350,000 sudden cardiac arrests occur annually outside hospital settings. However, a hands-on emergency intervention like cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), especially if performed immediately, can double or triple a cardiac arrest victim’s chance of survival.

According to the American Heart Association, 70% of cardiac arrests – electrical malfunctions in the heart that cause an irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia) and disrupt the flow of blood to the brain, lungs and other organs – occur at home, but often family and friends who witness a child, spouse, parent or friend going into cardiac arrest hesitate to perform potentially lifesaving CPR for fear of making the situation worse.

“By equipping people with Hands-Only CPR training, we are empowering them to spring into action if a loved one needs help, as the

majority of cardiac arrests occur at home,” said Dr. Anezi Uzendu, M.D., interventional cardiologist and American Heart Association volunteer.

As part of its Hands-Only CPR campaign, nationally supported by the Elevance Health Foundation, the American Heart Association aims to increase awareness about the importance of bystander CPR and offers these two simple steps:

1. Call 911.

2. Push hard and fast in the center of the chest of the individual experiencing cardiac arrest.

Using the beat of a familiar song with 100-120 beats per minute, such as “Stayin’ Alive” by the Bee Gees, can help you stay on pace with the necessary compressions.

“Being able to efficiently perform Hands-Only CPR in the moment can mean the difference between life and death, and by following these two simple steps we can increase someone’s chance of survival from cardiac arrest,” said Shantanu Agrawal, M.D., board certified emergency medicine doctor and chief health officer at Elevance Health. “As a longstanding supporter of the American Heart Association, we remain focused on working together to improve health inequities in our communities by expanding access to training and increasing the number of people who learn and feel confident performing Hands-Only CPR to save lives.”

To find more information, watch a livestream video demonstration of Hands-Only CPR or download a first aid smartphone app, visit heart.org/CPR.

Healthy Habits for Your Home

(Family Features) If you’re like most Americans, health is an important aspect of your resolutions when each new year rolls around. While factors like diet and exercise are keys to healthy living, so are the ways you care for your home and belongings.

Your home living environment plays a major role in your health and comfort, so incorporating some new habits like these from the cleaning experts at Swash Laundry Detergent can help you establish a healthier lifestyle.

CONTROL AIR QUALITY

Especially during the winter months when your home tends to be closed tight, air can grow stale. Do your best to keep air quality strong by opening windows on mild days to circulate fresh air, using an air purifier to remove irritants and pollutants, frequently vacuuming and sweeping to keep floor dust and debris under control and regularly cleaning textiles that can trap allergens and other particles.

SCALE BACK DETERGENT USE

Using too much laundry detergent isn’t just risking buildup and unnecessary wear on your washer and dryer; it can also increase the residue and buildup in your clothes, which can lead to skin irritation and damage fabric faster. Using only what you need helps protect your belongings and your skin. An option like Swash Laundry Detergent, which features a Precision Pour Cap, dispenses the detergent for you, so you only pour what you need to effectively clean each load and fight stains. A single bottle of the ultra-concentrated formula – available in Simply Sunrise, Free & Clear and Pure Linen scents – washes up to 83 loads while taking up less space than traditional, bulky detergent bottles.

MAKE USE OF NATURAL LIGHT

When winter brings day after day of dark, dreary weather, it can take a toll on your mood. Brightening your living space with natural light can positively influence your emotional state while helping with your electric bill. If you’re concerned about privacy, utilize window treatments at night, but let the sunlight bring good cheer to your living spaces during the day.

SWITCH BEDDING ON SCHEDULE

While you sleep, your body sheds oils, cells and elements you carry into your home like pollen. Sheets should be washed once a week on the hottest water setting your fabric will tolerate (check tags for laundering directions on your sheets before washing). If your schedule makes weekly washing, drying and remaking the bed unrealistic, consider having a couple sets you can rotate so you always have fresh, clean sheets waiting to remake your bed on laundry day.

WORK UP (AND WASH OUT) A SWEAT

The materials that keep you feeling cool and fresh by wicking away sweat can quickly get stinky, but over-washing can make them lose their shape and fade. Even so, washing after every use is a must. Washing workout clothes inside out exposes the surfaces that have absorbed sweat and body oil to detergent and agitation. Be sure to close zippers, buttons, clasps and other fasteners to prevent snags. Pre-soaking with equal parts vinegar and cold water can also help eliminate odors, and washing in a gentle, cold-water cycle and drying on low heat can help protect the fabric’s elasticity and wicking properties.

Start your year off right with more advice for healthy habits around the home at Swash.com.

5 Ideas for an Organized, Intentional Laundry Space

Having an organized and decorated laundry room can ease the weight of your to-do list and the tension you feel from the day-to-day grind. It can also help keep your laundry routine simple, orderly and organized. Consider these tips from the laundry experts at Swash:

1.

THINK LIKE A MINIMALIST.

Empty your laundry space and sort through what you need and what you don’t. Eliminating the extras leaves room to evaluate your space. Consider whether you could organize differently to make frequently used items more accessible and make the most of your storage space. Cutting down on clutter may even make it possible to incorporate shelves or cabinets that add stylish functionality.

2.

UPDATE YOUR SPACE WITH OPEN SHELVING.

Open laundry shelves offer a sense of more space, and the horizontal lines can lend a sense of calm. For an easy and attractive upgrade, try hanging 2-3 open shelves within easy reach. If you’re hesitant about the open feel, limit to just one shelf for the everyday necessities and keep the rest of your laundry supplies out of sight in a complementing cabinet. Baskets offer another option for concealing your belongings, whether you use them on the open shelves or inside cabinets to keep things tidy and clutter-free.

3.

CREATE A PRACTICAL WORKSPACE.

Mundane laundry chores like folding can be more enjoyable when you have a comfortable, dedicated space for the job. An open counter or table that folds down from the wall gives you the surface you need to fold clothing within your laundry space without disrupting the rest of the house. Other ways to add practical space include areas for sorting garments that need special attention and a place to hang items that shouldn’t be dried in the dryer.

4. USE COLORS AND MATERIALS THAT EVOKE CALM.

Natural materials and a neutral color palette can lend to a more peaceful space. Lighter neutral colors reduce stress and anxiety, promote relaxation

and can even make a space feel more expansive. For a calm, refreshing area, start with a base of white then add natural textures like woven baskets, faux or real plants and marble stone accents in the tile flooring or backsplash. Add a calming color like blue to evoke the tranquility of the sky or ocean, or consider green to incorporate the soothing effects of nature.

5. INVEST IN PRODUCTS THAT BRING YOU JOY.

Choose quality pieces that aren’t overly trendy and will stand the test of time. Consider how your investment of laundry decor, including your washer and dryer, will serve you in the space in the coming years.

Trending Colors and Textures Inspire 2023 Home Design

Over the past year, architectural design saw a surge in nature-inspired, earth tones, such as calming shades of blue and green. Homeowners can expect this trend to continue into the coming months, but with warmer, richer colors.

This ongoing interest in warm neutrals with earthy undertones and pink and blush shades is likely to be increasingly popular in 2023 as homeowners become more adventurous with their color choices as a form of creative expression.

TRENDING COLORS

Selecting the right colors for your home project is often influenced by both your personal preferences and the latest design trends. Some contemporary options to consider include:

• Earth Tones: Warmer, natural-looking earth tones are versatile, working seamlessly with just about any design or architectural style of home. Some trending hues include muted terracotta, green, yellow and plum.

• Warm Neutrals: Although they’re not typically used as statement colors, warm neutrals bring a sense of comfort while also offering an inviting, blank canvas to let individuality flow freely. Ontrend options include shades of dark brown, caramel, tan or offwhite.

• Rich, Dark Colors: These deep, saturated hues can make a house stand out and look more modern while still offering a nod to warmer hues. Chocolate brown, brick red or dark jade are popular choices for those who prefer rich hues.

• Pink and Blush Shades: Various shades of pink, rose and blush will be increasingly popular choices for homeowners exuding a greater sense of self-expression. In home design, look for these colors to appear in coral, pink, red-orange, raspberry or blush tones.

• Sweet Pastels: There are signs homeowners are ready to bring colors back into their homes. Expect to see sweet pastel shades like soft pink, mint green and light purple in furniture, decor and accessories.

MATERIALS WITH TEXTURE

With warm neutrals and earth tones dominating the color palette, both interior and exterior design will depend heavily on texture to add definition. More design choices will move away from faux finishes and instead focus on natural and authentic looks, many of which can be achieved through brick and stone.

Brick and stone give designers options for adding depth and dimension, integrating a play on light and shadows with a variety of textural elements.

Brick carries a sense of tradition, character and timelessness while also serving as a popular choice for homeowners due to its design flexibility. Qualities such as lowmaintenance, resilience, durability, sustainability and beauty make brick an option that allows homeowners to balance function with appearance.

Homeowners can find more than 600 brick and stone products with GlenGery’s extensive product line that offers endless design possibilities and timeless beauty. From handmade to glazed bricks and everything in between, these build-ing products come in a diverse array of colors, textures and sizes, making it easy to personalize living spaces with the latest design and color trends.

Try a virtual design tool like Picture Perfect, which can help you visualize projects, or find other style inspiration at glengery.com.

Bring Color with Brick

Brick is often selected for its functional benefits, but it’s also an appealing building product due to its versatile color, texture and size combinations.

Color can evoke a certain mood and assist in achieving a desired outcome. Often, architects and designers even incorporate multiple colors or create custom looks by using multiple brick colors and styles.

To help homeowners hone in on the perfect look to match their vision for contemporary design and align with anticipated 2023 color trends, Glen-Gery will introduce its inaugural Brick Color of the Year, a program that showcases trending hues that lend well to trending aesthetics.

Reflecting contemporary earthy, natureinspired color trends, the Pitt Cafe Series consists of four soft, neutral-toned, versatile bricks, ranging from creamy white to earthtone and brown-gray with highly pronounced textural features. What’s more, the series can be used for both interior and exterior applications for modern or contemporary designs.

Managing Your Pet’s Weight

3 Tips to Keep Dogs and Cats Healthy

(Family Features) Much like humans, dogs and cats can struggle with aging- and weight-related health issues. In fact, 3 out of 5 cats and dogs are overweight or obese, according to Packaged Facts’ U.S. Pet Market Outlook.

Pet obesity can lead to several health issues and problems, including diabetes, cancer and osteoarthritis, according to research published in “Veterinary Medicine.” While leading a sedentary lifestyle and overfeeding

are common factors that can lead to pets becoming overweight or obese, these simple tips from the pet food experts at Go! Solutions can help you manage your dog’s or cat’s weight to ensure he or she lives a happy and healthy life.

EXERCISE AND PLAY REGULARLY Just as important as your pet’s diet is ensuring he or she is active. For dogs, regular walks and hikes are a simple

way to provide mental stimulation, improve muscle tone, increase metabolism and help reduce boredom while also getting necessary exercise. For high-energy dogs who need more stimulation, games like fetch, hide-and-seek and tug can help them burn off extra energy and tire more quickly on days when you don’t have time to spend hours outside with them. For cats, consider scratching posts, flirt poles, obstacle courses, setting platforms at multiple levels and simple toys like balls and fake mice

to keep them active and engaged. Some cats can even be leash trained to go for walks.

ADDRESS DIETARY NEEDS

Diet is a major factor in weight management for dogs and cats. The ideal diet for your pet provides the right balance of macroand micronutrients, including protein, fat, carbohydrates, fiber, vitamins and minerals as well as the proper portion size to help prevent obesity. Formulated by Petcurean’s expert nutrition team, Go! Solutions Weight Management + Joint Care GrainFree Chicken recipe provides complete and balanced nutrition featuring premium quality, functional ingredients with zero by-product meals and artificial preservatives. To support a healthy weight and mobile joints in adult and senior dogs and cats, the formula includes L-carnitine to help burn fat into energy and fiber-rich psyllium husk to help keep pets feeling full. Glucosamine and chondroitin in the recipe for dogs and chondroitin from chicken cartilage in the recipe for cats helps support healthy joints and good mobility.

KEEP TREATS IN CHECK

An important part of weight loss and management is limiting the additional calories you’re providing your pet outside of his or her normal day-to-day diet. A little extra can go a long way, so keep packaged treats to a minimum and be mindful of things like slipping your pet table scraps or letting him or her lick out the almost-empty peanut butter jar. Keeping those additional calories in check can help keep your pet’s diet – and overall health – on the right track.

Find more ideas for providing your dog or cat complete and balanced nutrition at go-solutions.com.

Visit www.SusanBrewer.Tv for weekly episodes that give advice on all things real estate. Everything from “How to get your house ready to sell” to a visit with the Mayor of St. Peters to discuss all of the things the city has to offer. Subscribe to be notified when a new episode is available. SusanBrewer.tv where binge watching is allowed and be careful - you just might learn something.

Helping Teens Develop Financial Literacy

(Family Features) Developing financial knowledge and effective money management habits are important steppingstones for teenagers to become financially stable adults who aspire to build assets and achieve personal goals.

For example, most teens (88%) would like to own a home someday, according to a survey conducted by Wakefield Research on behalf of Junior Achievement USA and Fannie Mae. The survey of 1,000 teens ages 13-17 in the United States found most (85%) believe “owning a home” is part of “the good life,” compared to nearly as many adults (87%).

However, fewer than half (45%) could correctly identify the definition of a home mortgage and 76% said they lacked clear understanding of credit scores.

“There’s been this theme that younger Americans aren’t interested in homeownership, but the results of this survey contradict that assumption,” said Jack E. Kosakowski, president and CEO of Junior Achievement USA. “Teens appear interested in owning a home someday but seem to realize they need more information on how to do it.”

To help teens gain a better understanding of financial decisions they’ll face in adulthood, consider these common terms.

CREDIT SCORE

While nearly all teens (96%) believe credit scores play an important role in the ability to purchase a home, approximately 3 in 4 (76%) said they understood credit scores only “somewhat,” “a little” or “not at all.” A credit score is a number from 300-850 based on a number of factors,

including credit history, open accounts, total debt, repayment history and more. Lenders use credit scores to evaluate a person’s ability to repay loans.

A person’s credit score may also determine the size of a down payment needed when purchasing a smartphone or home, or the deposit needed for renting property or obtaining utilities and may impact interest rates and credit limits on credit cards. Generally, scores below 620 may require paying a higher rate, a shorter repayment term or a co-signer. Scores of 700 or higher are considered more favorable to creditors and may result in lower interest rates while scores higher than 800 typically provide the most benefits to consumers.

MORTGAGE

While a slight majority of white teens (52%) correctly identified the definition of a mortgage, only around a quarter (26%) of Black teens and fewer than half (41%) of Hispanic or Latino teens could do so. A mortgage is a type of loan used to purchase or maintain a home, land or other types of real estate. The borrower makes a down payment for a portion of the purchase price then borrows the rest from a lender. The borrower then repays the lender over a number of years – typically 15-30 – via a series of regular payments that are divided into principal (the money originally borrowed) and interest with the property serving as security.

Nearly all teens surveyed (97%) thought it would be helpful if schools offered lessons that explained homeownership, including mortgages. In response, Fannie Mae is supporting the development and deployment of Junior Achievement learning experiences for thousands of students annually in various age groups by integrating relevant content from its HomeView homeownership course materials and resources, which are designed with first-time homebuyers in mind.

“Young people today are the homebuyers of tomorrow,” said Jeffery Hayward, executive vice president and chief administrative officer, Fannie Mae. “By providing them access to quality, foundational education now, Fannie Mae and Junior Achievement are helping these future homeowners prepare for the mortgage and homebuying process when they’re ready to take that step.”

Visit ja.org for more tips and information to help teens improve their financial knowledge and reach their goals.

Sleep is Good Medicine

11 Tips for Healthier Sleep

Sleep can sometimes feel like self-care that can wait or a reward you need to earn. However, the opposite is true. When it comes to your health, sleep is just as important as physical activity and nutrition.

While you sleep, your body is busy healing and repairing itself, learning and actively preventing chronic diseases. For most adults, getting healthy sleep means sleeping for at least 7 hours each night

without waking up frequently, going to bed and waking up at roughly the same times each day and waking up feeling refreshed. Healthy sleep helps the body boost immunity, manage weight, reduce stress and lower the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, cancer, heart disease and Alzheimer’s disease.

“We know chronic insufficient sleep can have a detrimental impact on personal health and increase

the risk of many diseases,” said Jennifer L. Martin, a licensed clinical psychologist and professor of medicine at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA. “Healthy sleep is also important for mood regulation and mental health, helping to reduce the risk of problems such as anxiety and depression.”

However, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 1 in 3 adults in the United States report getting less than 7 hours of sleep per night. Your daily routine – what you eat and drink, the medications you take, how you schedule your days and how you spend your evenings – can significantly impact the quality and duration of your sleep.

These tips from the American Academy of Sleep Medicine’s “Sleep Is Good Medicine” campaign –which aims to emphasize sleep as a key pillar of health, equivalent with nutrition and exercise – can help you create a healthy sleep routine to improve your health today and in the long run.

• Keep a consistent sleep schedule. Get up at the same time every day, even on weekends and during vacations.

• Set a bedtime early enough to get at least 7 hours of sleep each night.

• Use your bed only for sleep and sex, or when you are sick. Watch TV and work outside the bedroom.

• Make your bedroom quiet and relaxing. Keep the room at a comfortable, cool temperature.

• Reduce fluid intake before bedtime.

• Turn off electronic devices at least 30 minutes before bedtime.

• Don’t eat a large meal before bedtime. If you are hungry at night, eat a light, healthy snack.

• Avoid drinking caffeine in the afternoon or evening.

• If you don’t fall asleep after 20 minutes, get out of bed. Do a quiet activity without a lot of light.

• Avoid alcohol before bedtime.

• Keep a sleep diary. Over a two-week period, track when you go to bed each day, wake during the night and wake in the morning. Also track when you exercise, nap, take medication or have caffeine or alcohol.

Even if you don’t think you have a sleep problem, talk to your doctor about your sleep and share your sleep diary. Together, you can figure out what healthy sleep looks like for you and how to get it. This can help prevent sleep difficulties before they become harder to treat.

Learn more about the role sleep plays in your health and find more tips to help improve your sleep habits at sleepisgoodmedicine.com.

Keep Your Car Safer and On the Road Longer

For many families, cars are huge, long-term invest-ments second only to homes. Many are looking for ways to keep their cars on the road longer and make them safer to continue to serve their needs for years to come.

No matter what or where you drive, you can keep your current vehicle looking and performing its best – and even update it to make it safer – with these tips inspired by eBay Motors’ Parts of America tour, a cross-country tour exploring unique car cultures across America.

CHOOSE THE RIGHT TIRES

If it’s time to trade your tires in, take the time to learn what options are available for your vehicle. For those in fair weather states, summer performance tires offer the best possible fuel efficiency all year round. Families living in milder states with occasional snow may consider allseason tires that trade efficiency for safety on a variety of surfaces. Finally, when it comes to driving in a winter wonderland, there is no substitute for specialized rubber and tread patterns – purchase a dedicated set of snow tires to ensure you’re safe all winter long. No matter your

situation, a new set of tires can maximize safety and extend the life of your car.

NEW LOOK, NEW RIDE

One way to breathe new life into your ride is to take it to the next level aesthetically. With enthusiast communities growing around nearly every make and model of vehicle, it’s easy to find parts to make your vision a reality. One of the most eye-catching additions is a new set of wheels, and there are thousands of brands, styles and sizes to choose from for every car.

The addition of front, side and rear aerodynamics kits, such as front splitters or rear spoilers, can give any ride that athletic look. Upgrading stock headlight and taillight units – many fitted with high-visibility LEDs – has never been easier.

UPGRADE YOUR TECH

Safety and creature comforts alike can add to your enjoyment of your vehicle, even if you’ve been driving it for several years. Many cars can be up-dated with the latest and greatest features available in new rides, including high-tech infotainment equipped with digital assistants, front and rear cameras, parking sensors, blind spot warning and even collision avoidance systems. As families look to extend their cars’ lifespans, these technology upgrades can make driving comfortable and safer.

POWER AND PERFORMANCE

While looks and tech can bring new experiences to your car, no change has quite the same impact as improving its performance. Options abound for those looking to improve the power and handling of their ride, such as replacing the exhaust system, lowering springs, adding a coilover kit or conducting a full suspension replacement.

FIND PURPOSE-BUILT PARTS

Whether you’re an amateur DIY-er looking to maintain and make small upgrades to your vehicle or an expert looking to make bigger modifications, finding parts and accessories that fit your vehicle is crucial. From hard-to-find performance modifications to made-to-fit cosmetic accessories, eBay Motors offers parts and accessories for nearly any vehicle, skillset and project. The app offers an entire catalog of inventory with 122 million live parts listings at any given time, giving auto enthusiasts the ability to purchase from an expansive inventory from the convenience of a smartphone. What’s more, features like Buy It Now, My Garage and Fitment Finder enable users to easily search parts and accessories, verify the items fit their vehicle and make immediate purchases for what they need.

SKIP THE WAIT

The global supply chain continues to recover from disruptions that have stretched back several years, and many customers are feeling the strain when it comes time to upgrade, maintain or repair their vehicles. Some shops around the country are quoting waiting times of several months just to have the right part delivered for service. However, families can find relief and get their car back on the road quicker by looking online to source their much-needed parts. In fact, many technicians work with customers to have parts delivered directly to their shop from online sources to expedite and simplify the process. Auto enthusiasts can find more helpful tips, tricks and resources at ebaymotors.com.

How to Be a Nurturing Plant Parent in 3 Easy Steps

(StatePoint) Plants add color, life and vibrancy to your home’s indoor and outdoor spaces and can even improve indoor air quality. However, if you are new to plant ownership, you may be wondering how to make your foliage thrive. Here’s are three tips for healthier plants:

1. MAKE A MOVE:

Many plants that do well outdoors in the warmer months can’t tolerate the cold. So don’t wait for subfreezing temperatures to bring planters indoors for the season. Be sure to give your newly-transported plants the right amount of light. This may require using special grow lights. Keep in mind though that different types of plants thrive better with different color spectrums and intensities, so group plants under the right lights accordingly. If your indoor air is dry in winter, you may find that misting the leaves of your warm climate and tropical plants will help provide needed humidity.

2. PREVENT PESTS:

Unfortunately, keeping houseplants often attracts insects that can harm them and bug you. But there are steps you can take to prevent a pest problem in your home. One important thing you can do is to be sure you are not overwatering plants. Too much water in effect drowns plants. It can also create standing water that becomes a breeding ground for flying insects. You can also provide round-the-clock protection from fruit flies, gnats and flies by plugging a Zevo Flying Insect Trap into a regular outlet near your plants and wherever flying insects enter your home or gather. Rather than chemical insecticides, the traps use multispectrum light technology to attract flying bugs into a discreet glue sheet cartridge. When the cartridge is full, replace it and toss the used one without ever having to touch a dead bug. To learn more, visit zevoinsect.com.

3. KNOW YOUR LIFESTYLE AND LIMITATIONS:

There are many plant species that while beautiful, don’t require much care. So, if you’re new to owning plants, consider starting out with lower-maintenance options, such as succulents or snake plants. Because these plants don’t need much water, they are also great options for those who travel frequently or those who are simply forgetful. Have furry friends? Always check whether a given plant is toxic to pets before bringing one home.

Having a green thumb can seem like magic. However, with the right tools and knowledge, anyone can become a nurturing plant parent.

5 Personalized Ways to Celebrate Galentine’s Day

(StatePoint) Are you ready to celebrate Galentine’s Day on February 13? Originating from a 2010 episode of the popular TV show, “Parks and Recreation,” Galentine's Day celebrates some of the most important relationships in our lives: our girlfriends. Over a decade later, the now-official holiday has skyrocketed in popularity. Here are tips on celebrating your gal pals with personalized touches.

1. BATCH OF BAKED GOODS. Food is the way to most anyone’s heart, especially when its homemade. Test a new recipe of your gal pal’s favorite dessert; or decorate cakes, cookies or cupcakes with icing in her favorite colors. No matter what you make, the extra effort will show just how much you care.

2. CREATIVE CUSTOMIZED CARDS.

Everyone knows that gals love a sappy, pullon-your-heartstrings letter or card. And you can up your card-sending game with a more personalized approach that resonates with the recipient. With the continued evolution of digital greetings, SmashUps and Creatacard from American Greetings have made it easier than ever to create a card just as special and unique as your individual friendships.

Specific friendship-themed ecards include creative options like talking animals or tacos, messages from celebrities, animated folded digital greetings celebrating your “girl gang” and more! They’re sure to entertain, surprise and delight your friends.

SmashUps are smile-inducing, shareable videos that can be highly personalized in a variety of ways, including adding their name or a message into the audio and graphics. With Creatacard, users can replicate the best parts of the offline card-sending experience without the hassle of printing, addressing and postage. In a few easy steps, you can create, personalize and sign your favorite digital cards, then send them to your girlfriends in their preferred way of receiving messages, such as email, text, through a messaging app or social post. Or, print your card from home if the moment calls for that. For that little extra something special, you can even add a gift card.

3. BYOB – BUILD YOUR OWN BRUNCH. Brunch is all about spending time together, catching up on life, laughing until your stomach hurts…and of course the plentiful food and drinks. Hosting your Galentine’s Day brunch at home can make for a more cost-effective and customized experience—no reservations required! Make it interesting (and easier for the host) by asking each gal to bring her favorite brunch dish or drink to share, or by prepping and cooking dishes together, all while toasting with a festive mimosa, Bloody Mary or unique mocktail.

4. MIXOLOGY WITH A TWIST. If your group of gals is more of an evening crowd, request that each friend brings her own batch of cocktails or mocktails and a snack that follow a given theme. Whether it’s an era (Roaring 20s), a hit movie, a popular show, or one that draws from personal experience, like the “represent your ex” trend on TikTok, the more festive the theme, the more fun the party. You can even tie it all together with an activity, like spa treatments or game night, or dress the part as well.

5. GET POSH WITH POLAROIDS. Whatever you choose for you Galentine’s get-together, be sure to capture the moment. And while we love selfies and Insta pics, Polaroids can make cute and creative keepsakes. Whether you’re at home or out on the town, the charming aesthetic and instant gratification of seeing your photo masterpiece is bound to make everyone smile.

While Galentine’s Day started with fictional characters eating waffles at brunch, there are so many personal, intimate ways to celebrate the very real friendships in your life and create longlasting memories.

Unexpected Hotel Travel Trends for 2023

(Family Features) Following the COVID-19 lockdown, outdoor and drivable destinations were in high demand for domestic travelers. As the country has reopened, Americans embraced the idea of getting back to normal and began traveling much as they did prior to the pandemic.

However, travel trends for 2023 suggest there is no normal when it comes to travel planning. Instead, individual interests are driving decisions about where to go and what to do.

"We see a detailed and robust picture of travel into 2023," Expedia Brands President Jon Gieselman said. "We're seeing a surge in trips to culture capitals, a new wave of interest in wellness retreats and a spike in demand for outdoor destinations beyond just beaches and mountains. It's not a new normal so much as people branching out to unexpected trends in what we're calling the 'no normal.'"

A close look at these trends suggests there is no "onesize-fits-all" approach to travel in 2023. Insights sourced from the company's first-party data, and from custom research of thousands of travelers and industry professionals across 17 countries, show value, alternative wellness options and hotels that cater to evolving traveler needs are heavily influencing travel choices.

Consider these conclusions from the experts at Hotels.com:

3-STAR SUPERSTARS

Travelers are seeking smarter ways to see the world without compromising on comfort or cool factor. In the U.S., nearly one-third (32%) of travelers are more concerned with value for money than ever before with data showing interest is up more than 20% globally in three-star hotels.

In 2023, 40% of U.S. travelers plan to stay in 1-3-star hotels, and 34% plan to book a vacation with added value inclusions, such as free parking or breakfast. Showing a shift in mindset from the post-pandemic bucket-list mentality and moving toward a more spontaneous approach, one-third of travelers would rather go on more trips in three-star properties than splurge on one big luxury getaway.

NEW WAVE WELLNESS

According to the survey, more than half (53%) of Americans are seeking wellness breaks but cite boredom with traditional retreats and want to experience something more exciting in 2023. Millennials are the top drivers of this as 60% of 25-34-year-olds are seeking alternative wellness getaways. Most travelers want to explore new offerings in the U.S. However, Gen Z has a different view and would prefer to book an adventure to Norway, Turkey, Switzerland, Iceland or Sri Lanka.

To capture this awakened market, some hotels are offering advanced rejuvenation programs and hands-on activities that encourage travelers to get up close and personal with nature. Sylvotherapy (forest bathing) and fruit harvesting are popular alternatives to cooking courses, sport holidays and meditation sessions.

HOT HOTEL OPENINGS AROUND THE WORLD

Hotels that cater to evolving traveler needs are opening around the world. These properties offer far more than a place to sleep with destination restaurants, coworking spaces and beautiful interiors. From an art-filled social hub in London to unbridled luxury in Rome, these are some hotels to have on your radar for the year ahead:

• La Palma, Capri, Italy

• 100 Princes Street, Edinburgh, United Kingdom

• Ikos Odisia, Corfu, Greece

• Celestial Suites, Kefalonia, Greece

• 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay, Princeville, Kauai

• Four Seasons Resort Tamarindo, Tamarindo, Mexico

• Alila Kothaifaru Maldives, Maldives, Indian Ocean

• Six Senses, Rome, Italy

• Atlantis The Royal, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

• art'otel London Battersea Power Station, London, Great Britain

Find more inspiration to take advantage of upcoming trends at Hotels.com.

Best of CES: Top Products You Need for Customized Living at Home

(BPT) - Each year, the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) reveals amazing electronic innovations, and this year's lineup is no exception. CES 2023 highlights a stunning variety of cutting-edge products to make home living more beautiful, more convenient, cleaner and even more fun. Among the many intriguing products featured in this show are surprising new technologies you didn't know you needed - until now.

Here are four top products from LG Electronics showcased in this year's CES.

TURN YOUR TV INTO ART

It's not just a TV anymore: With the new LG OLED Posé, your TV resembles a high-end piece of furniture or art rather than an entertainment center. The TV provides stunning OLED evo picture quality, but that's not all. When you're not watching your favorite shows or movies, the TV can be switched to Gallery mode, displaying a photo or your choice of artful pieces on the digital

canvas, transforming your space into an art gallery.

The Posé's soft, smooth lines create a quiet, neutral look suitable for any interior. It's framed in a muted, calming beige fabric finish, adding stylish charm perfect for your space, and you can personalize the media shelf to show off favorite books or magazines. Even better, the Cable and Accessory Organizer conceals wires behind a Clean Cover to minimize clutter, keeping everything tidy. With the OLED Posé, you can create an artistic interior that's uniquely you.

USE YOUR TV WHEREVER YOU WANT

Tired of your TV being a fixed object you can't move from one location? The LG StanbyME TV is for you. The portable design lets you take your screen anywhere in your home, from your workspace to the kitchen or living room and back, hassle-free. Offering maximum versatility, StanbyME provides a wireless private 27-inch TV screen with a built-in battery, allowing for three hours of viewing

before recharging - enough for a movie, workout or study session. Its movable stand has five concealed wheels, making it easy to move around your home.

Multiple adjustment options let you watch in comfort wherever you are, with a swiveling screen and adjustable height so you can customize the position to suit your location. The TV also features near field communication, so you can wirelessly mirror content from your phone, tablet or laptop, and supports AirPlay, allowing you to stream, share and mirror content from your iPhone, iPad or Mac.

A FRIDGE TO MATCH YOUR MOOD

For anyone who loves spending time in the kitchen with friends and family (or making culinary masterpieces on your own), the LG STUDIO Refrigerator with MoodUP™ technology will make your kitchen time extra festive. With vibrant color-changing LED panels, you can create a customized lighting scheme for your refrigerator using colors to suit your mood or environment. Through LG's ThinQ™ app, select from 23 colors and 190K color combinations for the upper and lower (refrigerator) door panels, transforming your kitchen into a lively, creative environment. You can create a customized lighting scheme with a wide range of vibrant colors or themes including Season, Healing and Pop. When the LED door panels are off, the refrigerator offers a traditional look with a mix of Lux Gray and White Sensors.

In addition to its stunning changeable colors, the refrigerator brings music into your kitchen with a built-in Bluetooth speaker that can connect to your smartphone, tablet, laptop or PC. Match your mood with songs from your favorite music streaming apps or a Music Collection playlist on the ThinQ app. Advanced Al technology lets you access upgraded voice and vision recognition, plus Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity.

Ready for a party? The refrigerator's LED panels can change color in sync with the music, adding even more fun to your gettogether or everyday routines.

DESIGN AND FUNCTION THAT DELIVERS CLEAN, COMFORTABLE AIR

For cleaner air without sacrificing style and space, LG PuriCare™ Aero Furniture merges a modern table-top design with 360 degrees of powerful air-purifying functionality. You can enjoy fresher air at home thanks to multi-stage filtration, along with LG's UVnano™ technology that reduces viruses and bacteria on the purifier's fan blades by up to 99.99%. The multifan modes and multi-directional purified air flow offer multiple airflow modes and fan speeds to ensure optimal comfort at home. Using LG's ThinQ technology, you can monitor air quality in real time throughout your home and choose between eight different mood lighting features using your smartphone. And there's more: You can even charge your smartphones and wireless earbuds via the tabletop's built-in wireless charger.

The modern, elegant PuriCare™ Aero Furniture encompasses sleek, multifunctional design with a choice of styles and colors to fit any home decor. You can even create a pleasing atmosphere with its mood lighting feature, with eight different colors to choose from. Better yet, this unique air purifier also incorporates sustainable design, with components fabricated from reusable plastic from old appliances and electronics and reusable packaging materials.

Learn more about innovative products bringing more style and function to your home at LG.com.

Save Valentine’s Day with These Last-Minute Gift Ideas

(StatePoint) Valentine’s Day is an age-old tradition, and it falls on the same day each year, but that doesn’t necessarily mean you’ve planned ahead for the occasion.

The good news? There are more thoughtful ways to spontaneously express your love than ever before, thanks to new digital tools. In addition to the classic options, like flowers, you might consider treating your loved one to their favorite meal via a delivery service like Door Dash or Uber Eats, or sending them a heartfelt, customized video greeting with SmashUps from americangreetings.com.

If Valentine’s Day catches you by surprise this year, fear not. These days, meaningful, creative gift options that can be delivered in hours, or even seconds, abound.

Meatless Meals Made Easy

Regardless of your motivation, opting for meatless meals regularly provides plenty of benefits that extend from the health of you and your loved ones to your wallet and the environment.

Whether you’re a vegetarian, vegan, considering making some lifestyle changes or just want to give an on-trend meal prep strategy a try, going meatless can help reduce your intake of red and processed meats, decrease greenhouse gas emissions that cause climate change and save money on substitute ingredients like grains, vegetables, fruits and legumes that are often cheaper than meat.

For example, starting with a versatile pantry staple like Success Brown Rice can make mealtimes quick and easy. Ready in just 10 minutes without measuring or the mess, the fluffy, nutty, non-GMO rice is free of MSG and preservatives, lending itself perfectly to satisfying and hearty meals like these Baked Vegetarian Taquitos. Or for a twist on a classic dish, Tri-Color Quinoa can be layered with traditional flavors in this Mushroom Spinach “Lasagna.” Packed with protein and all nine essential amino acids, the quinoa is a good source of fiber.

To find more meatless meal inspiration, visit SuccessRice.com.

BAKED VEGETARIAN TAQUITOS

prep time: 15 minutes cook time: 20 minutes servings: 4

1 bag Success Brown Rice

1 cup shredded collard greens, packed

1/4 cup frozen corn

1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed

2/3 cup canned pumpkin puree

1 1/2 tablespoons taco seasoning

8 flour tortillas (6 inches each)

1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded

2 tablespoons olive oil sour cream, for dipping salsa, for dipping guacamole, for dipping fresh cilantro, for garnish

Prepare rice according to package directions; add collard greens and corn to water during last 5 minutes.

Preheat oven to 450 F. Drain rice and vegetables; transfer to saucepan. Stir in black beans, pumpkin puree and taco seasoning.

Spoon 1/3 cup rice mixture into center of one tortilla; sprinkle with 2 tablespoons Monterey Jack cheese. Roll up tightly. Place seam side down on parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Repeat with remaining tortillas, filling and cheese. Brush taquitos with olive oil; sprinkle with remaining cheese.

Bake 10-15 minutes, or until tortillas are crisp and cheese is melted.

Serve taquitos with sour cream, salsa and guacamole for dipping. Garnish with fresh cilantro.

MUSHROOM SPINACH

"LASAGNA"

prep time: 10 minutes cook time: 30 minutes servings: 6

2 bags Success Tri-Color Quinoa

1 tablespoon olive oil

2 garlic cloves, chopped

1 cup mushrooms, sliced

4 cups baby spinach leaves

3 cups tomato sauce

2 cups ricotta cheese

1 egg, lightly beaten

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided

1 tablespoon Italian seasoning

1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

Prepare quinoa according to package directions. Preheat oven to 375 F.

In large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add garlic and onions; saute 1 minute. Add mushrooms and cook 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add spinach and stir until wilted, about 2 minutes. Stir in tomato sauce and keep warm.

In medium bowl, combine ricotta, egg, 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning.

Place 1 cup sauce in bottom of 2-quart baking dish. Spread half of quinoa evenly over sauce. Top with half of ricotta mixture. Top with 1 cup sauce. Sprinkle with 1 cup mozzarella. Repeat layers, finishing with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

Bake uncovered 30 minutes. Serve warm.

A Mission forNutrition

Accomplish Health Goals withBetter-for-you Family Meals

Setting out on a mission to eat healthier starts with creating goals and working to achieve them with those you love. To help make nutritious eating more manageable, call together your family and work with one another to create a menu everyone can enjoy while staying on track.

Connecting an array of recipes that all can agree on starts with versatile ingredients like dairy. Gathering at the table with your loved ones while enjoying delicious, nutritious recipes featuring yogurt, cheese and milk can nourish both body and soul.

For example, the key dairy ingredients in these recipes from Milk Means More provide essential nutrients for a healthy diet. The cheese varieties in Feta Roasted Salmon and Tomatoes and 15-Minute Weeknight Pasta provide vitamin B12 for healthy brain and nerve

FETA ROASTED SALMON AND TOMATOES

recipe courtesy of marcia stanley, ms, rdn, culinary dietitian, on behalf of milk means more

prep time: 15 minutes cook time: 15 minutes servings: 4

Nonstick cooking spray

3 cups halved cherry tomatoes

2 teaspoons olive oil

1 teaspoon minced garlic

1/2 teaspoon dried oregano or dried dill weed 1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper, divided 1 1/2 pounds salmon or halibut fillets, cut into four serving-size pieces

1 cup (4 ounces) crumbled feta cheese

Preheat oven to 425 F. Line 18-by-13-by-1-inch baking pan with foil. Lightly spray foil with nonstick cooking spray. Set aside.

In medium bowl, toss tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, oregano or dill weed, salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper.

Place fish pieces, skin side down, on one side of prepared pan. Sprinkle with remaining pepper. Lightly press feta cheese on top of fish. Pour tomato mixture on other side of prepared pan. Bake, uncovered, 12-15 minutes, or until fish flakes easily with fork.

Place salmon on serving plates. Spoon tomato mixture over top.

cell development and are a good source of calcium and protein, which are important for building and maintaining healthy bones. Meanwhile, the homemade yogurt sauce served alongside these Grilled Chicken Gyros provides protein and zinc.

To find more nutritious meal ideas to fuel your family’s health goals, visit MilkMeansMore.org.

recipe courtesy of kirsten kubert of “comfortably domestic” on behalf of milk means more

prep time: 5 minutes

cook time: 10 minutes

Servings: 6

6 quarts water

16 ounces linguine or penne pasta

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

1/2 cup thinly sliced onion

1 cup thinly sliced carrots

1 cup thinly sliced sweet bell pepper

1/2 cup grape tomatoes, halved

1 teaspoon kosher salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

2 cloves garlic, peeled and minced

1 cup reserved pasta water

1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest

1/2 cup smoked provolone cheese, shredded

1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional) Parmesan cheese (optional)

Bring water to rolling boil and prepare pasta according to package directions for al dente texture, reserving 1 cup pasta water.

In large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Stir in onions, carrots and sweet bell peppers. Saute vegetables about 5 minutes, or until they brighten in color and begin to soften. Add tomatoes, salt, pepper and garlic. Cook and stir 1 minute to allow tomatoes to release juices.

Pour reserved pasta water into skillet, stirring well. Bring sauce to boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer 3 minutes. Taste sauce and adjust seasonings, as desired.

Transfer drained pasta to skillet along with lemon zest and smoked provolone cheese, tossing well to coat. Serve immediately with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese, if desired.

GRILLED CHICKEN GYROS

recipe courtesy of kirsten kubert of “comfortably domestic” on behalf of milk means more

prep time: 30 minutes, plus 30 minutes chill time

cook time: 20 minutes

servings: 8

CHICKEN:

3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill

1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano

2 cloves garlic, peeled and minced

3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

1 teaspoon kosher salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts

YOGURT SAUCE:

1 1/2 cups plain, whole-milk yogurt

1 1/2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

1/2 cup diced cucumber

2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill

1 clove garlic, peeled and minced

1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

1/8 teaspoon black pepper

3-4 small loaves whole-wheat pita bread, halved lengthwise

1 cup thinly sliced tomatoes

1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion

To make chicken: Place melted butter, dill, oregano, garlic, lemon juice, salt and pepper in gallon-size zip-top freezer bag. Seal bag and shake contents to combine. Add chicken. Seal bag, pressing air out of bag. Shake chicken to coat with marinade. Refrigerate chicken in marinade 30 minutes.

To make yogurt sauce: Stir yogurt, lemon juice, diced cucumber, dill, garlic, salt and pepper. Cover sauce and refrigerate.

Heat grill to medium heat. Grill chicken over direct heat, about 10 minutes per side, until cooked through. Transfer chicken to cutting board and rest 10 minutes. Thinly slice chicken across grain.

Serve chicken on pita bread with tomatoes, red onion and yogurt sauce.

Party-Worthy Wine Pairings Perfect for Easy

Entertaining

Red or white, sweet or dry, wine lovers are often entertainers at heart. When inviting guests to share your personal favorites, nothing enhances a tasting get-together quite like complementary snack and wine pairings.

The next time you find a wine party on your schedule, consider these simple yet delicious recommendations from sommelier and founder of “The Lush Life,” Sarah Tracey, who partnered with Fresh Cravings to create “Dips and Sips.” Aimed at reinventing wine and cheese parties, the movement focuses on simplistic recipes, easy dip pairings and suggested wines.

“When I entertain at home, I’m always looking for ways to impress my friends with fresh, creative bites I can pair with wine,” Tracey said. “My favorite hack is finding great products with high-quality ingredients then creating simple, elevated ways to serve them. The less time I spend in the kitchen, the more time I get to spend with my guests.”

Tracey relies on the versatility of Fresh Cravings’ array of dip options and crowd-pleasing, bold flavors worth celebrating. With authentictasting chilled salsas offering a vibrant alternative to soft, dull blends of jarred salsa and flavor-filled hummus made with premium ingredients like Chilean Virgin Olive Oil, these dips elevate both traditional and reinvented recipes.

For example, Tracey’s recipes for Polenta Rounds with Pico de Gallo Salsa and Crab, Spiced Butternut Squash Naan Flatbreads, Cheesy Tortilla Cutouts with Salsa and Hummus-Stuffed Mushrooms offer flavorful, easy-to-make appetizers that can make entertaining easy and effortless. Plus, these crave-worthy morsels are just as tasty and approachable for guests choosing to skip the wine.

Find more recipe and pairing ideas perfect for enhancing your next party at FreshCravings.com.

HUMMUS-STUFFED MUSHROOMS

recipe courtesy of sarah tracey total time: 15 minutes servings: 6

Nonstick olive oil spray 16 ounces cremini mushrooms, stems removed and gills scooped out salt, to taste pepper, to taste

1 container Fresh Cravings Classic Hummus

1 jar manzanilla olives stuffed with pimientos, cut in half

1 jar roasted red pepper strips Oregon Pinot Noir

Preheat oven to 375 F. Prepare sheet pan with nonstick olive oil spray.

Place mushroom caps on sheet pan, spray with olive oil and season with salt and pepper, to taste.

Roast 7-8 minutes then let mushrooms cool to room temperature.

Fill each mushroom cap with hummus and top each with one olive slice.

Thinly slice roasted red pepper strips and arrange around olive slices.

Pair with lighter bodied pinot noir with cherry tones from Oregon.

SPICED BUTTERNUT SQUASH NAAN FLATBREADS

recipe courtesy of sarah tracey

total time: 25 minutes servings: 6

1 1/2 pounds butternut squash

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon maple syrup

1/2 teaspoon cumin

1/2 teaspoon chili powder salt, to taste pepper, to taste

1 container Fresh Cravings Roasted Garlic Hummus

1 package mini naan dippers

1 bunch fresh rosemary, minced La Veielle Ferme Rosé

Preheat oven to 425 F.

Chop butternut squash into 1/2-inch chunks.

Toss squash with olive oil, maple syrup, cumin and chili powder.

Spread on sheet pan, sprinkle with salt and pepper, to taste, and roast until tender, about 20 minutes.

Spread hummus on naan dippers and top each with squash and fresh rosemary.

Pair with deeper, savory and earthy rosé.

POLENTA ROUNDS WITH PICO

DE GALLO SALSA AND CRAB

recipe courtesy of sarah tracey

total time: 30 minutes

servings: 6

1 tube (16 ounces) prepared polenta nonstick cooking spray salt, to taste

8 ounces jumbo lump crabmeat

1 container Fresh Cravings Pico de Gallo Salsa, Mild 1 bunch fresh mint, finely chopped Mateus Rosé

CHEESY TORTILLA CUTOUTS

WITH SALSA

recipe courtesy of sarah tracey total time: 20 minutes servings: 6

Nonstick cooking spray

6 large flour tortillas

16 ounces pepper jack cheese, grated

1 can (4 ounces) green chiles, drained

1 bunch fresh cilantro, finely chopped

1 container Fresh Cravings Restaurant Style Salsa, Medium New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc

Preheat oven to 350 F. Prepare sheet pan with nonstick cooking spray.

Place large flour tortilla on sheet pan. Top with handful of grated cheese.

Sprinkle chiles on top of cheese layer. Add chopped cilantro. Sprinkle with additional cheese.

Top with another tortilla. Bake until cheese is melted, about 10 minutes. Work in batches to make three sets of cheese-filled tortillas.

Cut out desired shapes with cookie cutters. Serve with salsa and pair with sauvignon blanc from New Zealand with zest and zing.

Heat oven to 400 F.

Slice polenta into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Arrange on baking sheet sprayed with nonstick cooking spray and bake 20-25 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Sprinkle with salt, to taste, and let cool.

Combine jumbo lump crabmeat with salsa.

Top each polenta round with crab salsa mixture.

Garnish with finely chopped fresh mint and pair with vibrant, fruity rosé.

2023 HAPPENINGS HAPPENINGS

Show

In its 45th year, STL RV Travel Show is the GO-TO place to shop for a new 2023 RV, trade up to your dream RV, or just learn about the joys of traveling RV-style.

Presented by the Midwest Gateway RV Dealers Association, the STL RV Travel Show is designed to introduce the public to the freedom, flexibility and fun of the RV lifestyle.

Attendees will see over 300 RVs highlighting the latest in state-of-the-art RV technology, streamline designs, RV parts, accessories, and services, as well as travel destinations, including campgrounds.

Nearly every style of recreational vehicles will be featured.

Motorhomes, 5th wheels, travel trailers, sport utility trailers, van campers, and folding camping trailers will all be on display and for sale.