(StatePoint) While spring cleaning is not the most dreaded seasonal task among Americans — in an American Cleaning Institute survey, 80% of respondents said they would rather spring clean than fill out their tax forms — there’s no reason to make it harder than it needs to be.

(StatePoint) Spring is the perfect time for a home refresh! While dusting the ceiling fan and scrubbing the tub are likely already on your to-do list, the most essential task of all may not be on your radar: cleaning and testing your smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms. A fresh home is great, but a safe one is even better. Did you know that working smoke alarms in the home doubles your chances of safely escaping a house fire? That’s according to the National Fire Protection Association. This spring, Kidde, a pioneer in early smoke detection for over 100 years, is highlighting the importance of keeping your smoke and CO alarms up to date. Here’s what they want you to know:

(StatePoint) Every year the Bluegrass State is home to more than 700 festivals and fairs, all of which celebrate some aspect of Kentucky culture, food, arts and so much more.

(StatePoint) Have you ever lamented how much of your earnings go to taxes? One way to ensure that more of your money benefits you and your future is by making strategic contributions to tax-advantaged savings accounts.

(StatePoint) Ever take a trip to the grocery store and feel overwhelmed by all the choices available? Save time and money by opting for products already tested by other consumers.

(StatePoint) As you age, it’s important to keep an eye on your vision. While some vision changes can be expected over time, others may signal something more serious, such as cataracts, glaucoma or age-related macular degeneration (AMD), which can result in vision loss, blurred vision and glare.

(StatePoint) Money management is not only a logistical challenge for many families, it can be an emotional one too, especially when it comes to transferring wealth from one generation to the next. Open, honest conversations about your financial values and intentions can cut through some of the stress, and help family members avoid resentment, confusion and even legal strife down the line.

(StatePoint) About 20 years ago, chickens—long a staple of farms and homesteads—began showing up in urban and suburban yards. They enabled city dwellers to source homegrown food, provided a touch of nature amid the urban jungle, and have continued to rise in popularity ever since. According to the American Pet Products Association’s 2025 State of the Industry report, 11 million U.S. households own backyard chickens, a 28% increase from 2023.

(StatePoint) When it comes to learning history, there is something about the act of walking around a historical site that will drive a lesson home in a way that is nearly impossible to replicate with films, books and other media.

(StatePoint) Kentucky’s bourbon legacy draws millions of visitors to area bars and distilleries each year. But those looking for booze-free options need not worry, Bourbon country is for everyone, whether they plan to indulge or not.

(StatePoint) The beginning of the year is a natural time for a reset, especially when it comes to budgets and better-for-you habits. With cold and flu season still in full swing, it’s also a time when many people start thinking about how to stay healthy without spending more than they planned.

(StatePoint) Living to 100 may sound extraordinary, but research suggests it’s more achievable—and enjoyable—than many people think. Studies show the majority of centenarians rate their health as good, and large numbers of people in this age group are mobile, active and optimistic.

(StatePoint) The use of checks may be declining, but check crimes are actually on the rise due to new, creative criminal schemes. Once a check is stolen, it can be altered or signed on your behalf to withdraw money from your account, and there are online marketplaces where criminals will sell stolen checks for other criminals to use for fraud.