Latest news with #Ruggiero
USA Today
10-07-2025
- Business
- USA Today
Delay repairs or DIY? Homeowners who can't afford repairs worry their homes are less safe
In today's housing market, just buying a home can feel like crossing a finish line, but homeowners know it's only the beginning of a long, expensive, and complicated journey. Once homeowners are in the door, the down payment is spent, and focus shifts toward mortgage payments, it's not uncommon for repairs or upgrades to fall to the wayside. Between rising labor costs, material prices, and inflation, it's no secret home maintenance is expensive. This year, 71% of homeowners postponed renovations due to economic uncertainty, according to a survey by Guardian Service, which helps consumers shop insurance policies. That's usually where home insurance comes in. However, nearly 1 in 4 homeowners admit they've skipped filing a home insurance claim because they worried their home would not pass inspection. It's an even more common fear among young homeowners, with 1 in 3 Gen Z reporting they've been afraid to file. Close to a third of homeowners said they may wait a year or two before committing to major upgrades, and 15% said they're putting them off indefinitely. But the decision to live with a leaky ceiling or make peace with other problems in your home can have long-term consequences. Jon Ruggiero, Guardian Service's vice president of sales, compared home repairs to going to the doctor for a checkup, getting your car's oil changed, or its tires rotated. Without proper maintenance, homeowners could face more costly problems down the line. "Your home really is no different. It is the biggest investment you're ever going to make in your life. You want to make sure you're regularly checking in,' Ruggiero said. 'If you don't, you're more likely to put yourself in a situation where you have one of those extreme costs creep up.' Beyond risking rising premiums or getting dropped by insurers, nearly half of homeowners said they are concerned delaying maintenance in 2025 has made their house less safe. What repairs are homeowners postponing? It's little surprise homeowners prioritize necessary upgrades, with 69% saying they're most likely to invest in safety or structural improvements first. But home improvement budgets fell by an average of 42% this year, and two-thirds of homeowners said they eliminated theirs entirely, the survey found. Aesthetic upgrades, like repainting or installing new flooring, are the first to go, with 48% saying they're postponing those projects. Homeowners most often delay bathroom and kitchen remodels next. Less than a quarter of homeowners said they are also postponing window upgrades, electrical or plumbing repairs, and roof replacements this year. Even with summer heat waves and unusually high temperatures, 14% of homeowners said they're delaying an HVAC replacement. Delay or DIY? Homeowners are holding out for a time when making upgrades would be cheaper. At 69%, most say they are waiting for inflation to decline. Some are delaying in hopes of lower material and labor costs. Some are watching to see if potential tax credits or reduced tariffs will make their projects less expensive in the future. Others aren't willing to wait. While they may not have money to hire a contractor, 62% of homeowners surveyed are tackling critical repairs themselves. Young people are most inclined to DIY, with about 2 in 3 Gen Z and Millennial homeowners skipping professional help to save money. 'Gen Z has grown up in a world where they can go online and YouTube fixes,' Ruggiero said. 'They're more prone to trying to make themselves the expert and try to DIY a fix.' Anthony Scheirer, a public insurance adjuster known as the @insuranceclaimguy online, reminded homeowners that if they make any significant improvements, they need to let their insurance company know. Otherwise, those upgrades won't be covered and the homeowner would be left with gaps in their insurance policy. That often means it's on the homeowner to pay the entire cost of rebuilding an undisclosed addition if it's lost in a fire, for example. Some projects, like installing a wood stove, may increase liability or risk. If an insurer is kept in the dark about them until the next time a homeowner files a claim, especially if the wood stove caused a fire for instance, it could affect the overall payout. 'If you have a situation where you didn't tell them of the improvement, you could literally lose hundreds of thousands of dollars because you didn't make them aware,' Scheirer said. Tips to lower home insurance premiums Some home improvement projects can actually lower the owner's insurance premiums. While nearly half of homeowners say they would complete a delayed upgrade if that was the case, 71% said their insurer has not educated them about which upgrades could lower their monthly payment. Some common projects to lower premiums include storm-resistant windows, a new roof, and fireproofing, according to Guardian Service. Ruggiero told USA TODAY that installing a smart thermostat or central security system are some of the easiest upgrades homeowners can make that may bring their insurance costs down. But every policy is different. Ruggiero and Scheirer recommend reviewing yours with a qualified professional to see what changes could bring down your premiums. Reach Rachel Barber at rbarber@ and follow her on X @rachelbarber_
Yahoo
02-07-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Amazon reviewers say this rosemary hair oil 'works like magic' for thinning hair — it's on sale ahead of Prime Day 2025
To grow or not to grow — that's the question on everyone's mind as social media influencers rave about rosemary oil's hair-transforming magic. Is it really the miracle cure it's hyped up to be? Is it truly like collagen for your hair? With so much love pouring in, it's no surprise that the rosemary oil market is set to soar to a staggering $23.59 billion CAD ($17.53 billion USD) by 2030. Rosemary oil packs a punch of natural goodness without a hefty price tag. If you try products like Amazon's Botanic Hearth's 100% Pure Rosemary Oil, you could be giving your hair care routine the makeover it needs. And right now, the hair oil is on sale for 28 per cent off ahead of Prime Day 2025 — no wonder more than 10,000 people bought it in the past month. The only catch? This is a Prime member-exclusive deal. If you're interested, you can sign up for a free trial here (it'll come in handy on Prime Day!). Scroll down to see what all the buzz is about and to see more of the best early Prime Day beauty deals you can already shop in Canada. Formulated with pure rosemary extract, this hair oil contains no synthetic additives or harmful you're on the lookout for a rosemary oil that can rescue you from thinning hair and provide scalp nourishment, Botanic Hearth's product is worth checking out. Botanic Hearth claims that its product is made with pure extract and also includes biotin, jojoba oil and castor oil. It comes with an applicator comb, making it easy to apply directly to your scalp. ⭐️ 4.2/5 stars 💬 16,400+ ratings 🏆 "Works like magic" One person notes 'insane growth after a month,' and another says they saw a noticeable difference within three weeks — it works 'like magic,' they write. If you're looking for a "natural, affordable solution to support hair growth" and "improve scalp health," then "I highly recommend trying rosemary oil," says another reviewer. With regular use, "it can make a noticeable difference." "This actually worked!" writes a third shopper. "My bald spot is growing in nicely," they say. "I'm so thankful!" Several users appreciate the product's quality, mentioning how it leaves hair 'silky and soft,' but they are disappointed about the lack of visible results. Some reviewers cite a 'greasy look' and its ineffectiveness against dandruff, with one person stating it 'makes hair stiff and scalp greasy.' Caroline Ruggiero, a certified trichologist with the International Association of Trichologists (I.A.T), tells Yahoo Canada that rosemary oil could just be your new best friend, primarily because of its ability to promote 'microcirculation and vasodilation,' both of which have been linked to hair growth. 'Rosemary has anti-fungal properties and stimulating properties. In many cases, rosemary is used in combination with other oils and ingredients to aid in scalp problems,' she says. You can score this popular hair oil for under $15. In cases of natural hair thinning, rosemary oil has shown favourable results. However, Ruggiero, the CEO of Truly You Hair and Scalp Clinic, says that for certain disorders, such as androgenic alopecia (male pattern baldness), which is autoimmune, 'essential oil cannot grow hair back.' She adds, 'Treating most hair loss disorders is like treating aging — there is no cure. But just because there is no cure does not mean there is no care.' A 2023 study on mice corroborates that rosemary helps promote hair growth. Additionally, Ruggiero recommends combining rosemary oil with other essential oils to enhance its benefits. For strengthening hair, she suggests 'Bay St. Thomas (Pimenta racemosa) and grapefruit oils,' while for revitalizing the scalp, 'rosewood and geranium oils are ideal.' To improve scalp health and tackle dandruff, Ruggiero advises mixing rosemary oil with palmarosa, cade and laurel oils. 'For a shampoo boost, try adding eight drops of rosemary oil, six of juniper, three of chamomile and eight of lavender. 'This blend can be helpful in treating dandruff,' she says. Thanks to its antimicrobial, antifungal and rubefacient properties, rosemary oil is safe to use on beards. 'These properties could provide potential benefits for beard care,' Ruggiero adds. While rosemary essential oil isn't typically irritating, she emphasizes that it should always be diluted and used for short periods, especially if you have sensitive or damaged skin. 'In high doses, when used internally, it can be toxic,' she warns. Ruggiero also says that folks with epilepsy best avoid rosemary oil. 'Camphor is a constituent in rosemary and can cause convulsions,' she explains. For those dedicated to their hair care routine, the Botanic Hearth Rosemary Hair Oil could be a good addition, especially considering its sale price. Studies have shown that consistent and long-term use of rosemary oil has supported hair growth and thickening. However, it's important to set realistic expectations. 'Hair loss can be challenging, and it's important to seek professional, evidence-based support to address it effectively," Ruggiero advises.
Yahoo
11-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Lauren Ruggiero Leaving As SVP Scripted At MTV Entertainment Studios Amid Paramount Layoffs
EXCLUSIVE: Veteran scripted executive Lauren Ruggiero, SVP Scripted Series at MTV Entertainment Studios, is departing as part of the Tuesday round of companywide layoffs impacting 3.5% of parent Paramount Global's workforce, Deadline has learned. Ruggiero has been at Paramount for a decade. She started at Paramount Network where she was promoted to VP and subsequently SVP, Scripted Original Series, before migrating to MTV Entertainment Studios, the studio behind Paramount Network's mega hit Yellowstone, on which Ruggiero served as executive in charge of production during its early seasons. More from Deadline CBS Studios' EVP Casting Deborah Aquila Departs Amid Paramount Layoffs; CBS' SVP Late Night Nick Bernstein Exits As 'After Midnight' Ends Paramount Cutting Another 3.5% Of Its Domestic Workforce, Citing Linear TV Declines And Broader Economy Paramount Global CFO Naveen Chopra Is Departing During her tenure, Ruggiero has been a top lieutenant of Keith Cox, now President of scripted for MTV Entertainment Studios and Showtime. The departure of a high-level programming executive like Ruggiero comes amid speculation about the future of MTV Entertainment Studios as a standalone entity should Skydance's acquisition of Paramount get regulatory approval. A popular executive among the creative community, Ruggiero led scripted development and oversaw scripted programming from development through production at Paramount Network and then MTVE Studios. In addition to Yellowstone, she worked on other MTVE Studios series from Taylor Sheridan, including 1883 and Tulsa King. Ruggiero is among dozens of executives leaving Paramount this week as part of the latest layoffs that also impacted five members of CBS Studios' casting department, including Deborah Aquila, EVP and head of casting for streaming series. 'As we navigate the continued industry-wide linear declines and dynamic macro-economic environment, while prioritizing investments in our growing streaming business, we are taking the hard, but necessary steps to further streamline our organization starting this week,' Paramount co-CEOs George Cheeks, Chris McCarthy and Brian Robbins wrote in a staff memo this morning about the staff cuts. Best of Deadline List Of Hollywood & Media Layoffs From Paramount To Warner Bros Discovery To CNN & More Sean 'Diddy' Combs Sex-Trafficking Trial Updates: Cassie Ventura's Testimony, $10M Hotel Settlement, Drugs, Violence, & The Feds A Full Timeline Of Blake Lively & Justin Baldoni's 'It Ends With Us' Feud In Court, Online & In The Media
Yahoo
02-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Does rosemary oil help thicken your hair? Amazon reviewers say oil 'works like magic' — and it's on sale
To grow or not to grow — that's the question on everyone's mind as social media influencers rave about rosemary oil's hair-transforming magic. Is it really the miracle cure it's hyped up to be? Is it truly like collagen for your hair? With so much love pouring in, it's no surprise that the rosemary oil market is set to soar to a staggering $23.59 billion CAD ($17.53 billion USD) by 2030. Rosemary oil packs a punch of natural goodness without a hefty price tag. If you try products like Amazon's Botanic Hearth's 100% Pure Rosemary Oil, you could be giving your hair care routine the makeover it needs. And right now, the hair oil is on sale for 28 per cent off — no wonder more than 10,000 people bought it in the past month. Scroll down to see what all the buzz is about. Formulated with pure rosemary extract, this hair oil contains no synthetic additives or harmful chemicals. If you're on the lookout for a rosemary oil that can rescue you from thinning hair and provide scalp nourishment, Botanic Hearth's product is worth checking out. Botanic Hearth claims that its product is made with pure extract and also includes biotin, jojoba oil and castor oil. It comes with an applicator comb, making it easy to apply directly to your scalp. ⭐️ 4.2/5 stars 💬 15,600+ ratings 🏆 "Works like magic" The original, full-size bottle has earned more than 15,000 reviews on Amazon and a 4.2-star rating. One person notes 'insane growth after a month,' and another says they saw a noticeable difference within three weeks — it works 'like magic,' they write. If you're looking for a "natural, affordable solution to support hair growth" and "improve scalp health," then "I highly recommend trying rosemary oil," says another reviewer. With regular use, "it can make a noticeable difference." "This actually worked!" writes a third shopper. "My bald spot is growing in nicely," they say. "I'm so thankful!" Several users appreciate the product's quality, mentioning how it leaves hair 'silky and soft,' but they are disappointed about the lack of visible results. Some reviewers cite a 'greasy look' and its ineffectiveness against dandruff, with one person stating it 'makes hair stiff and scalp greasy.' Caroline Ruggiero, a certified trichologist with the International Association of Trichologists (I.A.T), tells Yahoo Canada that rosemary oil could just be your new best friend, primarily because of its ability to promote 'microcirculation and vasodilation,' both of which have been linked to hair growth. 'Rosemary has anti-fungal properties and stimulating properties. In many cases, rosemary is used in combination with other oils and ingredients to aid in scalp problems,' she says. Formulated with pure rosemary extract, this hair oil contains no synthetic additives or harmful chemicals. In cases of natural hair thinning, rosemary oil has shown favourable results. However, Ruggiero, the CEO of Truly You Hair and Scalp Clinic, says that for certain disorders, such as androgenic alopecia (male pattern baldness), which is autoimmune, 'essential oil cannot grow hair back.' She adds, 'Treating most hair loss disorders is like treating aging — there is no cure. But just because there is no cure does not mean there is no care.' A 2023 study on mice corroborates that rosemary helps promote hair growth. Additionally, Ruggiero recommends combining rosemary oil with other essential oils to enhance its benefits. For strengthening hair, she suggests 'Bay St. Thomas (Pimenta racemosa) and grapefruit oils,' while for revitalizing the scalp, 'rosewood and geranium oils are ideal.' To improve scalp health and tackle dandruff, Ruggiero advises mixing rosemary oil with palmarosa, cade and laurel oils. 'For a shampoo boost, try adding eight drops of rosemary oil, six of juniper, three of chamomile and eight of lavender. 'This blend can be helpful in treating dandruff,' she says. Thanks to its antimicrobial, antifungal and rubefacient properties, rosemary oil is safe to use on beards. 'These properties could provide potential benefits for beard care,' Ruggiero adds. While rosemary essential oil isn't typically irritating, she emphasizes that it should always be diluted and used for short periods, especially if you have sensitive or damaged skin. 'In high doses, when used internally, it can be toxic,' she warns. Ruggiero also says that folks with epilepsy best avoid rosemary oil. 'Camphor is a constituent in rosemary and can cause convulsions,' she explains. For those dedicated to their hair care routine, the Botanic Hearth Rosemary Hair Oil could be a good addition, especially considering its sale price. Studies have shown that consistent and long-term use of rosemary oil has supported hair growth and thickening. However, it's important to set realistic expectations. 'Hair loss can be challenging, and it's important to seek professional, evidence-based support to address it effectively," Ruggiero advises.
Yahoo
20-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Mental health crisis continues to grow, responders call for more resources
ALTOONA, Pa. (WTAJ) — Last May alone the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline exceeded a half million calls and texts. Monthly call volumes in every state have also increased over the past year. UPMC Altoona's mobile crisis unit responded to some of those calls locally but they said their resources may not be enough to address the growing mental health crisis in our communities. Rates of mental illness, substance use disorder and suicide attempts are all on the rise, nationwide and in Central Pennsylvania. Despite a growing need for mental health services, there's a rapid declining in the number of resources available to help, putting a strain on those that are left. 'A lot of agencies are overbooked. You know, they're filled so it's hard to get into places so that is definitely a struggle,' said Trisha Ruggiero, Program Manager at UPMC Western Behavioral Altoona Crisis Services. Ruggiero said Blair County is in substantial need of more agencies to help people before they ever find themselves in crisis. She said that many people in the area are on medical assistance and that many therapists will not take their insurance, creating additional need for therapists who will see patients with limited resources. 'Compassion and empathy,' St. Marys students create suicide prevention coin The decline in the number of treatment options means many people are being forced to suffer longer before getting help. 'Because the system is so strained, we definitely are seeing a lot more people engaging in the crisis system. We're kind of a stopgap,' said Michael Edelstein, Manager of Clinical Services at UPMC. 'So where people might have been, we had opportunities to engage with outpatient treatment or, you know, different residential programs, things like that, you know, we're seeing them at our doorsteps are getting those calls.' Edelstein said we're seeing the greatest lack of resources available for children and older Americans. But he also said there's a huge need for providers able to address substance use as drugs are a major contributor to growing mental health challenges. 'It was always a concern to run into someone with a substance challenge in our field. Now it's not uncommon for some of our teams to really be reviving people using that naloxone because the substance challenges are so pervasive,' Edelstein said. Rising rates of homelessness make both mental health concerns and substance abuse issues more difficult to address long–term, which is why Altoona Crisis Services has adapted to bring help to the patient through their 24/7 mobile team. Ruggiero said they are able to go out into the community and talk with someone in crisis where they are rather than bring them to the hospital, which can be intimidating or upsetting for some. The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is always available to call if you're in need of help. But Ruggiero said calling 911 is also an option as Altoona Crisis Services partners with EMS services and will respond to calls placed to 911 as well. Altoona Crisis can be reached directly by calling 814-889-2141. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
