Valentine's gifts for DIY guys and gals.

(ARA) - If you're shopping for a do-it-yourselfer this Valentine's Day, tools can be a welcome gift - and more romantic than you might think. Practical, yet fun, some tools should be in every guy or gal's toolbox to make home improvement or hobby projects a success.

"My No. 1 piece of advice before starting any project is to make sure you have the right tools," says Brian Benes, Dremel product manager. "You'll get better results and the project will be much more enjoyable. You never know when a project could pop up, so a well-stocked toolbox is a tremendous asset."

Visit your local hardware store or home improvement center to scoop up these must-haves:

* A basic hammer and a set of screwdrivers in various sizes. From hanging pictures, to fixing a loose table leg, these tools are always in demand. Be sure to include an assortment of nails and screws to complete the package.

* Various sizes and types of clamps. You can never find enough uses for them, and frequently need to use multiple clamps at once.

* An oscillating tool designed for DIY use. Oscillating tools are hot this year and a great asset for repair, remodel and restoration work. From making cuts in awkward places to removing bathroom grout or tub caulking, they are a versatile and convenient tool to have on hand. Pick one that offers a high level of performance without the professional price tag, such as the Dremel Multi-Max - either corded or cordless.

* A compact, cordless drill. A handy tool for driving screws or making holes - 14V or 18V is great for the average homeowner.

* A pair of lineman's pliers. Equipped with a gripping joint, cutting edge and insulated handle grips, they can be used for gripping small objects or to cut and bend wire and cable. They come in particularly handy for working with electrical cables, as the insulated handles reduce the risk of shock.

* A torpedo level. An essential tool if you don't want your new books falling off your new bookshelf. Torpedo levels often contain more than one liquid vial for checking more than one angle at a given time.

* A set of pencils. While it sounds mundane, pencils come in handy for nearly every project, whether cutting a straight line, tracing a circle, or marking where a nail will be inserted into a wall. Pencils can even be customized with the recipient's name.

* A rotary tool. Rotary tool recipients will continue to be amazed at the amount of tasks this compact, multi-purpose tool can tackle, including carving, routing, engraving, grinding, sharpening, cutting, cleaning, polishing and sanding. The Dremel brand invented the rotary tool more than 75 years ago, and still offers the biggest tool and accessory selection.

* A quality tape measure.  From home improvement projects to body measurements, there are limitless uses for a tape measure.

For more Valentine's Day gift ideas for the DIY guy or gal, including hot new "must-haves," visit www.dremel.com.

An easy way to save 15 percent on utility bills.

(ARA) - Saving money around the house continues to be a major pursuit for homeowners nationwide. And with a focus on going green, savvy homeowners are looking for ways to cut energy use to reduce utility bills and their home's carbon footprint.

There are dozens of ways to curb energy use around the home. Sealing drafts by applying caulk and weather-stripping around windows and doors, and applying foam sealer around drafty outlets and piping leading outside can save up to 5 percent on heating costs alone. Most important, installing the proper amount of attic insulation with the proper airflow is generally the best way to save on home energy use.

If you are among the millions of Americans who enjoy do-it-yourself home improvement projects, installing a radiant barrier in the attic space above your home is one of the most effective energy-saving projects to consider.

While radiant barriers are not a new concept, new products on the market are making it easier for homeowners to install them and realize reductions in their energy bills each month. Overall, a radiant barrier can save an average homeowner up to 15 percent on utility bills.

The benefits of installing a radiant barrier have long been known by professionals in the construction, roofing, heating and cooling and energy industries, says Rick Jordan of EcoRite Products, a major radiant barrier manufacturer. Only recently have products been manufactured specifically for the DIY installer market.

Jordan explains that a radiant barrier is a product that is installed in the attic - between the rafters on the underside of a roof - to reduce the radiant heat gain that permeates a home when the sun is beating down on it. Radiant barrier, a particularly effective product for summer months, also reduces heat loss from a roof during the winter, reducing the workload on your furnace and lowering your heating bill.

Early, less-effective versions of radiant barriers included spray-on metallic paint, reflective chips or products known simply as "attic foil." Installation was cumbersome, often requiring special tools, adhesives or multiple installers, and the low flash point on the older type of foil created added dangers in the event of a house fire.

It's important to choose a radiant barrier that is Energy Star-approved and made of metalized film, not perforated aluminum foil. Today's radiant barriers are far more sophisticated, yet some are so simple to install that no tools are required.

Enerflex Radiant Barrier is an example of new radiant barrier technology. The product is available nationwide through a network of lumber and building materials dealers, as well as through major retailers. The product is Energy Star-approved and was named one of the "Best New Products of 2010" by Professional Remodeler, a leading trade magazine.

Enerflex Radiant Barrier comes in rolls or panels, pre-cut for 16-inch and 24-inch widths for installation ease. The radiant barrier panels literally flex or "snap" into place between the rafters, with no tools needed. This makes it possible for installation to be a simple, one-person, do-it-yourself job that can be completed in a matter of hours.

"Studies on installed radiant barrier products show that attic temperatures are typically reduced by a full 30 percent during the summer months, which can translate to 30 degrees on a hot summer day," says B.J. Damstra of Universal Forest Products, one of the nation's largest building products manufacturers.

"In really hot climates, homeowners are finding additional uses for radiant barriers. In Texas and Arizona, for example, homeowners keep garages cool by installing the product on the inside of garage doors and walls. Outbuildings on farms or ranches, or outdoor workshops can also be kept cooler in the summer when the product is installed between rafters under the roof," Damstra says.

Jordan of EcoRite Products says adding a radiant barrier in the cooler months makes installation safe and more comfortable for the installer.

Radiant barriers are a safe, proven tool for reducing energy bills and reducing the strain on a home's HVAC system. And when you can spend a few hours over a weekend and complete a project that saves money month after month, it's hard to ignore the benefits.

Visit www.enerflexfoil.com for more information on radiant barriers or to find a retailer in your area.

Medical and health interests merge into great career opportunities.

(ARA) - If you've ever considered pursuing a career in the medical and health technology fields, now might be the time to take action. Federal funding is helping to encourage growth and fuel demand for trained professionals.

President Barack Obama signed into law in 2009 a plan for economic recovery designed to pull the United States out of a deep recession. Encompassing $789 billion in funding for stimulus programs, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act included funding for the Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health (HITECH) Act to promote the adoption of Electronic Health Record (EHR) technology in health care. Beginning in 2011, individual doctors and eligible medical providers can receive Medicaid incentive payments over a five-year period if they adopt a certified EHR and achieve five "meaningful use" goals adopted by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).

As a result, the Act is expected to create over 50,000 new health information technology jobs, according to the Office of the National Coordinator of Health IT. With doctors across the country making the switch from paper charts to electronic medical records, there's a strong demand for specialists trained on the latest medical record technology.

Moving forward, students interested in health information technology careers must prepare themselves for the technological advances of the future. At some universities, curriculum has already been created to meet the demands of the evolving health care landscape. This September, DeVry University health IT students completed their first semester trained on Practice Fusion's Electronic Medical Record (EMR) system.

Practice Fusion provides a free, Web-based EMR system to physicians. With charting, scheduling, e-prescribing, billing, lab integrations, unlimited support and a personal health record for patients, Practice Fusion's EMR addresses the complex needs of today's health care providers and disrupts the health IT status quo.

The school introduced Practice Fusion this summer to online students in its Health Information Fundamentals Practicum course, providing them with additional tools to facilitate their success in the program. Through the program, students learn real-world medical terminology, health information system security, ICD-9 disease coding, health information regulation and practice management skills. Students also use the Practice Fusion system for charting, scheduling and billing as part of their practicum requirement.

"It's critical that our HIT students receive as much hands-on, real-world experience as they can before entering the health care workforce," says David J. Pauldine, president of DeVry University. "EMRs have the potential to deliver more efficient and safer care for patients and doctors - university graduates need to be ready for the switch."

With Bureau of Labor Statistics naming health IT as one of the 20 fastest-growing occupations through 2012, Practice Fusion's CEO, Ryan Howard, is encouraged by EMR's adoption into health IT program curricula by nationally-reaching schools.

"Electronic Medical Record systems deliver real benefits to the U.S. health care system - from reducing health care costs to preventing medical errors," says Howard.  "Students prepared with these skills represent the future of health information technology."

Students interested in these exciting careers should visit devry.edu to learn more.  Doctors, nurses, academic institutions and health IT professionals interested in learning more about Practice Fusion's free, Web-based EMR system should visit practicefusion.com.

Vintage: the year's must-have fashion trend.

(ARA) - You're seeing it everywhere, from runways to street style blogs to "it girls" who act as fashion muses: retro vintage style is making a refreshing comeback. Preppy must-haves, lady-like accessories and cuts inspired by classic retro styles have made their way back into the fashion consciousness.

As luck would have it, it's easier than you think to be a part of the trend this season. Check out these simple tips for incorporating retro style into your wardrobe easily and affordably.

* Shop your closet. Did you hang onto your favorite cashmere twinset, Peter Pan-collared blouse or short-sleeve sweater from years past? These classic American sportswear separates are suddenly the must-haves of the season. It's time to bring these basics back to the forefront of your closet. Have fun mixing and matching these pieces with on-trend accessories to create refreshing new looks.

* Focus on feminine details: Subtle accents like sparkly brooches, a classic pearl bracelet and a lady-like, structured handbag will bring your look to life. Feminine details reminiscent of a bygone era are guaranteed to take your outfit to the next level. You'll be able to find some easy-on-the-wallet options at vintage stores or by shopping your favorite discount store for deals on modern versions of these eye-catching styles.

* Think vintage when it comes to accessories. Many quintessential American accessory brands are experiencing a fashion revival, like Timex, which offers a variety of styles that are new takes on classic designs from the decades gone by.

"The Originals 1940s Inspiration watch features a vintage construction expansion band and a simple, clean design. I love this style because it's so easy to wear and fits perfectly with the retro fashion trend," says style expert Amy E. Goodman.

* Stick to a soft palette. The "it" shades of the season are soft neutrals: pale pinks, camel hues and heather grays. The way to wear them is in accent pieces such as cardigans or blouses. Don them with your favorite jeans and a pair of versatile menswear-inspired shoes like penny loafers or brogues for an easy everyday look.

* Pull it all together: Remember these final tips to achieve the retro look: Figure-flattering styles were dominant in this era, so stay away from anything loose or baggy. Looking polished from head to toe is the key to pulling this look together. Pair a simple updo hairstyle with crisp, tailored clothing and snappy shoes to finish it off.

Remember that retro style isn't about creating a costume. By incorporating retro touches into an overall modern look, you'll capture the interesting details of vintage style while still keeping your look fresh and up to date.

For more style tips that will help you perfect your own vintage retro style, visit www.TimexStylewatch.com.

Seven Tips To Save Time And Money This Tax Season

(ARA) - New for tax year 2010, the IRS is no longer automatically mailing tax forms to taxpayers. This move is expected to save the IRS $10 million. If it encourages more people to electronically file (e-file) tax returns online, it also will save the IRS time and taxpayers as well.

This income tax return filing season, taxpayers should be asking themselves what they can do to save time and money.

"Most people probably spend more time dreading their taxes than it would take to actually do their taxes and get back to the things they enjoy," says Gary Lundberg, product management director for CompleteTax, an online tax preparation and e-filing software program. "They may end up waiting until the last minute and rushing through the process only to spend more time and money than they should."

A few things people can do to save time and money this tax season include:

1. Get ready. Spend a few minutes up front to gather the information you need to do your taxes, for example, the W-2 form from your employer and any 1099 statements from your bank or other financial institutions.

2. Start early. Historically, prices for tax software go up as tax season progresses. Starting early can help you save money. Check to see if your program guarantees that the price will remain the same from the time you start doing your taxes to the time you finish.

"When you start preparing a tax return online, you want the reassurance that you can come back a few days or weeks later to finish up without it costing you more," says Lundberg. "You'll want to look for an online tax preparation solution that guarantees not to change prices on you after you start a return."

3. Use the tax program that's right for you. Unlike packaged software that you have to purchase and install, most online tax preparation programs let you try them out before requiring you to pay. So, if a program seems complicated, move on to one that's simpler.

"Those who are unhappy with the price or performance of their current tax software should also shop around. You may even get a free return for switching," says Lundberg. "But be sure to look for guarantees."

4. Get the help you need. Different taxpayers want different types of help. So, it's important to ask yourself what type of support you expect. For example, do you want to reference or search an online tax guide on your own, chat with customer support or have the ability to speak directly with a tax professional if you have a question? Then make certain your tax program offers the help you expect you'll need.

"You'll want a program that offers affordable access to a tax expert to provide tax help if, when and where you need it," Lundberg says. "Even if you don't think you'll have questions, it's a good to know it's there just in case - but steer clear of those that charge per question or per session."

5. Claim all the tax credits and deductions available to you. The average federal tax refund for 2009 was about $3,000. Still, many taxpayers believe they may not be realizing all the tax breaks they should be getting. The interview process in the online tax preparation program should help make sure you are maximizing your credits and deductions and some will even guarantee they are providing the maximum tax refund. Also, make sure the program includes charitable deduction tools to help you substantiate the value of goods you give to charity so that you can claim the full charitable contribution deduction you deserve.

6. Don't pay more than you have to. Depending on what your tax situation is, you may be able to prepare your federal tax return for free. For example, programs like CompleteTax offer a basic version for free, as well as free use of higher-end programs for people who were unemployed in 2010 or owe the IRS on their 2010 returns. Even if you have to pay, it should cost less than $60 to prepare a federal and a state tax return.

7. E-file and use direct deposit. About 70 percent of taxpayers e-filed last year, with about 35 million people doing so from their home computers. It's easy, secure and accurate. And, if you e-file your tax return and choose direct deposit, you can get any refund coming to you in as little as eight days deposited right into your account.

Find more money- and time-saving tips on tax preparation at www.CompleteTax.com.

Keep your 'green' home improvements running at peak efficiency.

(ARA) - If you're like many Americans, you have recently made home improvements to lessen your impact on the environment. While you've already taken big strides toward saving energy - and money - you can conserve even more by making sure your new systems are running at peak efficiency.

Whether you recently outfitted your home with solar panels or invested in a new heating system or water heater, here are some tips to make sure you are saving energy at the highest capacity.

Solar panels

Solar panels capture free energy from the sun, but they can lose a lot of their capacity if they aren't cleaned regularly.  Depending upon where you live and other variable conditions, you may need to clean panels as often as once a month. A dirty panel can reduce the efficiency of an entire array by up to 40 percent. Since panels can sometimes be hard to reach, you may want to consider investing in a cleaning system like Mr. LongArm's Pro Curve Solar Cleaning Kit, which allows you to reach and clean difficult-to-access panels.

The system features two unique cleaning tools, a washer/squeegee that attaches to a curved extension pole as well as an extendable flow thru pole and cleaning brush that can be attached to a garden hose. To view videos on how to clean solar panels, visit www.mrlongarm.com.

Heating systems

A new energy-efficient heating system only gets you part of the way to optimal efficiency. Before the heating season starts each year, you should make sure your HVAC filters and vents are cleaned, as you will see an immediate loss in efficiency if there is any blockage.

Another aspect of heating efficiency has nothing to do with your heating system. Making sure your home is properly sealed and insulated can save you up to 20 percent on energy costs, according to the U.S. Department of Energy's Energy Star program.

Water heaters

No matter how large your home or your family, you can easily make your water heater more efficient by turning down the temperature on the unit to 120 degrees F. The lower temperature means the heater doesn't work as hard, and your water will still be hot enough to take a bath or wash dishes.

You may also want to consider a tankless water heater, which only heats the water when it's demanded. These systems also take up less space in your utility room by running the cold water through heated coils before it goes through the pipes to your sink or shower.

If you've already taken steps to become energy-efficient, you understand the benefits. By making your current systems even more effective and economical, you can see even greater rewards for going green.

Five simple substitutes that lead to a healthier diet

(ARA) - Eating right is often easier said than done. You like what you like, so breaking old eating habits is never easy. That's why sometimes it can be easier to slightly modify your diet instead of giving it a complete overhaul.

The good news is subbing in healthier substitutes doesn't have to make your food taste less flavorful. Here are five healthy substitutions to try on your journey to better health:

1. Make things whole. Consider what type of bread, pasta, flour and rice you are regularly eating. Switching to the whole grain versions of these foods not only helps you cut down on calories, but also add nutrition to your diet. Whole grain foods are also packed with fiber, which helps you feel full and aids digestion.

2. Consider beverages. Did you know the average can of soda contains about 150 calories and no nutrients? On the other hand, try opting for tasteful beverages that have a neutral, or even a positive effect on your health. For example, natural teas can provide added health benefits - oolong tea can help lower your cholesterol and green tea can help boost your metabolism. Like soda, tea can also be quick, easy and refreshing - cold-brewed tea from brands such as Teawan come in packages that can be brewed in minutes.

3. Watch where you start in the kitchen. Cooking more at home is a sure-fire way to reduce the calories you take in, but your cooking methods can be another place to make gains in eating healthier. Instead of using butter, vegetable shortening or lard, consider using olive oil, peanut oil or canola oil, which contain less saturated fat.

4. Creamy substitutes. When a recipe calls for heavy cream, try substituting half and half or milk. Or use yogurt instead of sour cream. These simple substitutions can provide great taste for a fraction of the calories and fat.

5. Modify your meat intake. You don't have to suddenly become a vegetarian, but try a stir fry using only veggies or substitute ground turkey for ground beef in your favorite recipes. By making a similar substitution once a week or more, you'll consume less calories and fat - and possibly discover some tasty variations on your go-to dishes.

You may find that some substitutes actually make your diet more interesting and give you more options for healthy eating. As you work toward eating healthier, you ultimately have to find options you enjoy to achieve sustainable and nutritious diet.