Lifestyle Trends

Weighing the costs of walking away from an upside-down mortgage

Owing more on your mortgage than your house is worth may seem like a bad investment. But the alternative - choosing to default on your mortgage even if you can afford the monthly payments - will take a significant toll on your credit rating. Read More

The heavy truth behind light cigarette labeling

What does "light," "low," or "mild" mean to you? For many consumers, these words may suggest a healthier or safer product. But when it comes to cigarettes, there's no such thing as a safe cigarette. Health experts agree that no matter what they taste, smell or look like, all cigarettes are harmful to your health. Read More

Tips for travelers to thwart identity thieves

You're not the only one looking forward to your vacation or business trip. Identity thieves relish your travel time too, because your vital, personally identifying information may be more exposed when you're traveling than when you're at home or work. Before you head to the airport or start out on your long road trip, take some precautions to safeguard against identity theft - even when you're not at home. Read More

Medication safety for seniors

If you're older than 65 and take multiple medications, you should be aware of potential interactions between your drugs. These interactions can cause unwanted side effects, reduce the effectiveness of your medicine, or even lead to hospitalization. Studies show that up to 30 percent of hospital admissions of elderly patients are linked to harmful effects of medications and other related problems. Read More

Can your family survive without you?

When they stop to think about it, many American families probably would admit they are inadequately prepared to cover living expenses if the primary wage-earner in the family were to die unexpectedly. Read More

Easy ways to take advantage of solar energy at home

While installing a complete residential solar energy system can be cost-prohibitive for many homeowners, recent technology that integrates solar power with individual household appliances is making it easier for homeowners to harness the power of the sun without breaking the bank. Read More

What you need to know about protecting your ash trees

Virtually all of the 7 billion ash trees in the United States are at risk for infestation by the emerald ash borer, also known as EAB. You can save your ash trees by acting now and starting a prevention program. Read More

The impact deductibles have on auto insurance premiums

There are many factors that come into play when determining the amount you'll be charged for auto insurance coverage - how much insurance do you want? What is your driving record? What is your deductible? Read More

Before you hit the road this summer - find out what the biggest U.S. cities have to offer

With summer right around the corner and the weather finally starting to warm up, many Americans are counting down the days until they can escape their daily routine for some much needed rest and relaxation. Before you pack up the car or hit the friendly blue skies for your vacation getaway, you may want to check out what some of the biggest U.S. cities have to offer. Read More

Tips for safe driving while celebrating

Whether you're celebrating the end of a tough semester, a promotion at work, the birth of a child or an impressive accomplishment, it is often customary in this country to celebrate with a drink. Read More