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Have you or a loved one been diagnosed with non-small cell lung cancer? Learn more about a clinical trial happening now

2026-09-16T08:01:00

(BPT) – Sponsored by Merck

Lung cancer (both small cell and non-small cell) is the second most common cancer in the U.S.1 In 2026 alone, it’s estimated that nearly 230,000 new cases of lung cancer will be diagnosed.1 Nearly half of all lung cancers are diagnosed at a later stage, after the cancer has spread from the lungs to more distant areas of the body.2

What is non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)?

The main types of lung cancer are non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and small cell lung cancer (SCLC). NSCLC is the most common type of lung cancer, making up more than 8 out of 10 lung cancers in the U.S.3

What causes NSCLC?

Many cancers are caused by gene changes, also called mutations. Genes are pieces of DNA that tell your cells how to work, and when gene mutations occur, they can change how the cells work.

For example, some gene mutations change how cells grow or multiply, causing them to grow or multiply too much, leading to cancer.

Gene mutations in NSCLC

Multiple gene mutations are associated with NSCLC. Specific mutations can influence how someone’s cancer grows or spreads and how well available treatments may work in their case.

One specific gene mutation commonly found in NSCLC is the G12C mutation of the KRAS gene.4,5 The KRAS G12C mutation causes cells to grow in an uncontrolled way, which can form tumors.6 About 13% of people (13 in 100) with advanced NSCLC have this specific mutation.4 Most KRAS G12C mutations are found in current or former smokers.5,6

Biomarker testing can help determine if you have certain gene mutations. Doctors often recommend that people with NSCLC get biomarker testing to see what mutations their cancer has.7

What are clinical trials?

A clinical trial, also called a clinical study, is a type of research designed to learn more about how the human body responds to investigational medicines, vaccines or other treatments. Clinical trials are the only way treatments can be approved for public use.

Learn about an investigational medicine targeting KRAS G12C

The goal of one particular trial is to learn if an investigational medicine may help stop or slow down the growth of NSCLC with KRAS G12C mutations. It will compare:

  • The investigational medicine combined with an immunotherapy, to
  • An immunotherapy and a placebo.8 A placebo looks like the trial drug but has no medicine in it. Using a placebo helps researchers understand if the investigational medicine works.

This trial is for adults age 18 and older who8:

  • Have been newly diagnosed with locally advanced or metastatic NSCLC. Locally advanced or metastatic means the cancer has spread to other parts of the body or cannot be removed with surgery.
  • Have the KRAS G12C mutation.
  • Have the PD-L1 protein on their cancer cells. PD-L1 is found on some cancer cells and can help the cancer hide from the body’s immune system. To learn if you have PD-L1, doctors test a tissue sample from a tumor.

More about this trial

There are more eligibility criteria for this trial. There may be risks related to participating in clinical trials. The trial doctor can discuss these with you.

Participation in clinical trials is voluntary, and participants are free to leave at any time, for any reason. Participants may help contribute to data that may advance research and potentially help future generations learn more about the investigational medicine and NSCLC.

Advancing research through representation

Representation in clinical trials helps researchers gain a more complete picture of how investigational medicines work across populations. This helps support the development of safe and effective medicines for those who are most affected by the disease or condition being studied.

“Diseases can impact people differently based on their age, gender, race, and ethnicity, as well as other factors,” said Michelle Chawla, clinical trial representation program lead at Merck. “That’s why it’s important for clinical trials to include people from a wide variety of backgrounds. By participating in a clinical trial, you can help researchers understand how investigational treatments may work across different populations and contribute to data that may advance research.”

See if you or a loved one may be eligible for a clinical trial

You can learn more about this clinical trial at Merck’s clinical trial page.

References

  1. American Cancer Society. Key statistics for lung cancer. Updated January 13, 2026. Accessed April 23, 2026. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/lung-cancer/about/key-statistics.html
  2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. U.S. cancer statistics lung cancer stat bite. Updated June 2, 2025. Accessed May 5, 2026. https://www.cdc.gov/united-states-cancer-statistics/publications/lung-cancer-stat-bite.html
  3. American Cancer Society. What is lung cancer? Updated January 29, 2024. Accessed May 6, 2026. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/lung-cancer/about/what-is.html
  4. Lim TKH, Skoulidis F, Kerr KM, et al. KRAS G12C in advanced NSCLC: prevalence, co-mutations, and testing. Lung Cancer. 2023;184:107293. doi:10.1016/j.lungcan.2023.107293
  5. Cascetta P, Marinello A, Lazzari C, et al. KRAS in NSCLC: state of the art and future perspectives. Cancers (Basel). 2022;14(21):5430. doi:10.3390/cancers14215430
  6. American Lung Association. KRAS and lung cancer. Updated December 2, 2025. Accessed May 6, 2026. https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/lung-cancer/symptoms-diagnosis/biomarker-testing/kras
  7. American Lung Association. Lung cancer biomarker testing. Updated January 20, 2026. Accessed June 4, 2026. https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/lung-cancer/symptoms-diagnosis/biomarker-testing
  8. Merck & Co, Inc. MK-1084-004: learn about a clinical trial for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with KRAS G12C mutations. Merck Clinical Trials. Published 2025. Accessed May 6, 2026. https://www.merckclinicaltrials.com/trial/nct06345729/

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Buying versus leasing a car: Is there a more flexible option?

2026-09-16T23:01:00

(BPT) – Key takeaways:

  • Buying and traditional leasing have long been the two main ways to have an everyday car, but both typically require longer-term financial commitments.
  • More flexible car options are emerging for people who don’t want to commit to the same vehicle for years.
  • Flexcar offers an alternative to buying and leasing, allowing members to keep their car as long as they want, switch cars or mileage plans as their needs change, or return the car at any time.
  • Flexing means choosing the car that fits your life today, with the option to change it as needed.

For years, people seeking an everyday car have typically had two choices: buy one or sign a traditional lease. Buying a car means making a significant financial commitment or taking out a loan lasting several years. Traditional leasing can reduce some of the responsibilities of ownership, but still typically means committing to the same vehicle for two to four years.

But life doesn’t always work in multi-year increments. Jobs change. Commutes change. People move. Families grow. The type of car that works for someone today may not be the car they need next month or next year.

Buying versus leasing: What’s the difference?

Buying and leasing both provide someone with an everyday car, but they work differently.

  • Buying a car: Someone purchases the vehicle outright or finances it through a loan. Once the vehicle is purchased, the owner is responsible for expenses like insurance, maintenance, repairs and eventually selling or trading in the car.
  • Leasing a car: Someone pays to use the vehicle for a set period of time rather than owning it. Lease agreements typically last several years and may include mileage limits, upfront costs and potential charges at the end of the lease.

Both options ask people to make longer-term decisions about their car, and often require them to manage costs like insurance, maintenance and repairs separately. That’s where a more flexible option can be useful.

Is there an alternative to buying or leasing a car?

Yes. Flexcar is one of those options. For people who want an everyday car without buying or signing a traditional multi-year lease, Flexcar gives members a car for as long as they need it, without a large down payment or traditional multi-year commitment. Insurance, routine maintenance and 24/7 roadside assistance are all included in the monthly plan. If needs change, members can switch cars, adjust their mileage plan or return the car at any time.

It’s a better way to have a car, built around the freedom to change as life changes, called “flexing.”

The idea is simple: Instead of trying to predict what kind of car you’ll need years from now, you can choose the car that works for your life today and make changes down the road.

What does it mean to “flex” a car?

Flexing means having the ability to change your car as your life changes rather than committing to the same vehicle for years. The idea is simple: Instead of trying to predict what kind of car you’ll need years from now, you can choose the car that works for your life today and make changes down the road.

For example, someone may need a smaller, more efficient car for their commute today, but want more space later as their family grows. Someone whose commute changes may also find they need more or fewer miles each month.

Members can also return their car without early termination penalties typically associated with ending a traditional lease early.

Car keys given from one person to another. Flexcar allows vehicle return at any time without early termination penalties.


What’s included with Flexcar?

Flexcar includes many of the major expenses people typically manage separately when buying or leasing a car. Members receive:

  • Insurance
  • Routine maintenance
  • 24/7 roadside assistance
  • Ability to choose from a variety of vehicle types
  • Ability to change vehicles as needs change
  • Ability to adjust mileage plans
  • Access to member savings through programs like safe driving and fuel discounts at participating stations

Who is Flexcar for?

Flexcar is designed for anyone who needs an everyday car and wants a more affordable, flexible and enjoyable way to have one. Instead of putting a large amount of money down, committing to the same car for years and managing insurance and routine maintenance separately, Flexcar brings more of the car experience into one monthly plan.

The benefit isn’t that you have to change your car. It’s knowing that you can.

Is Flexcar the same as a car rental?

No. Traditional rental cars are designed around a specific trip or set number of days. Flexcar is designed to be your everyday car. Members choose a vehicle and mileage plan and can keep the car for as long as they need it. If their needs change, they can adjust.

Is Flexcar the same as a traditional car lease?

Flexcar is an alternative to the traditional multi-year leasing model. A lease generally requires someone to commit to the same vehicle for a predetermined term, often several years. With Flexcar, members can keep their car as long as they want, with the option to switch cars, adjust their mileage plan or return the car as their needs change.

Flexing: A better way to have a car

Happy woman driving car. Flexcar aims to make having a car more flexible.

Buying, traditional leasing and Flexcar all provide access to an everyday car. The biggest differences come down to ownership, commitment and flexibility. Buying and traditional leasing often come with more upfront costs and longer-term commitments, leaving people to manage additional expenses separately.

Flexcar gives people a more affordable, flexible and enjoyable way to have their own car, without a large down payment or traditional multi-year commitment. It’s a better way to have a car, with the freedom to flex as needed.

Learn more about how Flexcar works at Flexcar.com, and find a Flexcar location near you at Flexcar.com/locations.

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How one company is doubling hope for wish kids

2026-09-17T04:01:00

(BPT) – Each year in the U.S., about 15,000 children are diagnosed with cancer. For the families of these children facing the unknown, a wish is more than just a once-in-a-lifetime trip or a one-of-a-kind experience. It’s a chance to pause, breathe and experience joy together when they need it most.

For the second year in a row, Salesforce is helping more families experience this joy. The global tech company best known for helping organizations build more personalized and efficient customer relationships is doubling down. As the official Make-A-Wish® match partner for Childhood Cancer Awareness Month (CCAM), Salesforce will match every donation, up to $1 million, throughout the month of September.

But Salesforce’s commitment doesn’t end after September. The tech company has already committed to supporting Make-A-Wish with an additional $1M match campaign during CCAM next year. Additionally, Salesforce’s partnership with the nonprofit will include employee engagement opportunities, storytelling campaigns and wish celebrations throughout the year.

Salesforce’s generosity has already helped make 100 wishes possible, with the Salesforce team hosting celebration events for three wish kids this year, including one child’s unique wish: visit a construction-themed adventure park.

A wish that digs into joy

Make-A-Wish kid, Sam, at Diggerland. Later in the day Sam became a big fan of NYC's Lego Store.

For 5-year-old Sam, joy means digging in the sand with his toy truck and bringing his imagination to life with LEGOs. So, when Make-A-Wish approached his family to bring Sam’s wish to life, he knew without a doubt what his wish would be: to visit a construction-themed adventure park.

Sam and his family were able to drive, ride and operate real diggers, dump trucks and giant machines in a safe, family-friendly environment. Afterward, Sam visited the LEGO store in New York City.

Make-A-Wish kid, Sam, operates dump truck and other giant machines in a safe, family-friendly environment.

“Sam had the time of his life at Diggerland and became a big fan of NYC!” said Sam’s mom. “We can’t thank you enough for making Sam’s wish come true! Seeing him so happy was an absolute joy, and our whole family is still talking about all the fun we had. Thank you again for the trip of a lifetime!”

Before his trip, Salesforce invited Sam and his family to its San Francisco office, where they spent the day on a scavenger hunt of the city’s famous landmarks from the office windows. This is just one example of how technology, compassion and community can bring hope and joy to families when it matters most.

Make-A-Wish kid, Sam, and family at Salesforce's San Francisco office enjoy the view of the city's famous landmarks.


How you can help double the joy

This September, every donation can have twice the impact, helping fund more wishes, reach more families and create more joy and hope for children navigating critical illnesses. To learn more and donate during Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, visit wish.org.

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Love classical music? Explore these top 5 Italian towns

2026-09-16T08:01:00

(BPT) – If you love classical music and opera, Italy is more than a great place to hear it — because along with Germany, Italy is where Western music was born. When you hear “do-re-mi” or read musical notation, you’re experiencing innovations born in Italy 1,000 years ago. Opera began in Florence some 400 years ago, and the piano was invented there a century later. Even today, the language of music remains Italian: allegro, adagio, crescendo and forte. Experiencing that musical heritage in the places where it was created adds an entirely new dimension to an Italy trip.

For more than 80 years, Perillo Tours has been introducing American travelers to the country’s art, history and culture. And for third-generation owner Steve Perillo, that culture has a special personal connection: He is a classically trained pianist and composer who studied at Boston University’s School of Music.

“Whether you’ve studied music as I have, or simply loved music all your life, traveling to Italy is a must,” said Perillo. “Hearing a soprano delivering an aria in the same opera house where it premiered, or listening to an orchestra playing music just miles from the birthplace of its composer — these are experiences you’ll never forget.”

Here, Perillo shares five Italian destinations where travelers can experience the places, theaters and traditions that helped make Italy one of the world’s great musical capitals.

1. One fine day …

… you’ll make a pilgrimage to the birthplace of renowned composer Giacomo Puccini. If you thrill to arias like “Un Bel Di” from Madama Butterfly, “Quando M’en Vo” from La Boheme and “Nessun Dorma” from Turandot, you know how much Puccini means to opera. In Lucca, you can visit Puccini’s birthplace museum and attend concerts celebrating his works. The Puccini Festival is held each summer at nearby Torre del Lago, through Sept. 5 this year.

Lucca’s storied history is evident from its architecture, like its striking 16th-century tree-lined city walls — and you’ll probably do a doubletake the first time you spot large oak trees growing atop the 148-foot-high, 14th-century Torre Guinigi.

Relish in the beauty of Lucca as part of Perillo’s Vesuvius Tour, including visits to Rome, Sorrento, Florence, Capri, Venice and Pompeii.

2. “In fair Verona, where we lay our scene”

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Best known for inspiring Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, Verona is home to the spectacular 2,000-year-old Arena di Verona, one of the world’s most famous open-air opera venues. You can attend performances of classics there, like Aida, Carmen and La Traviata. While enjoying the city’s sounds of opera and Shakespearean romance, be sure to savor the local cuisine, including risotto all’Amarone, a creamy rice dish cooked in Verona’s best-known red wine.

Verona is a highlight from Perillo’s new Lakes, Wine & Romance tour debuting in 2027, where you can discover the timeless elegance of Northern Italy on a breathtaking journey through the sparkling Italian Lakes.

3. Music on every street corner

From street food to street performances, the lively coastal city of Naples brings to life popular favorites like “O Sole Mio,” plus signature foods including wood-fired Neapolitan pizza and tri-colored Neapolitan ice cream.

The rich heritage of Naples blends opera, folk and classical music, transforming the city into a living stage where you’ll hear music everywhere you go. Naples is also home to the oldest continuously operating opera house in the world, the magnificent Teatro di San Carlo.

Two of Perillo’s tours include Naples: the 15-day North Classic and 12-day North Continental.

4. If you can make it there …

Legendary conductor Arturo Toscanini once said, “La Scala is the lover who made me despair the most.” The world’s most celebrated opera house, Milan’s Teatro alla Scala, is a must-visit for opera, ballet and classical music enthusiasts. The La Scala Museum features a fascinating array of costumes, rare instruments, set designs and memorabilia showcasing the history of European music.

Also boasting historic art and architecture like Leonardo da Vinci’s “The Last Supper” and the medieval Sforzesco Castle, Milan is a vibrant fashion hub. The gorgeous shopping gallery Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II tops Milan’s list of must-see venues.

Perillo’s North Classic tour includes cultural sites in and around Milan.

5. Bel Canto and beyond

Fans of the coloratura stylings of famous works like The Barber of Seville need to visit the birthplace of composer Giachino Rossini. UNESCO City of Music Pesaro hosts the internationally acclaimed Rossini Opera Festival every August. You can explore the composer’s life, manuscripts and personal belongings at the beautifully restored Casa Rossini. The entire city of Pesaro celebrates Rossini’s legacy, from monuments and museums to piazzas and cafes inspired by the composer.

While in Pesaro, take time to admire the stunning Sfera Grande sculpture and hike the beautiful clifftop trails of Parco Naturale Monte San Bartolo.

Include Pesaro and any other destination in a Perillo Custom Vacation by creating a customized travel experience from a library of suggested itineraries for Italy and Greece to fit your personal preferences — or collaborate with a Perillo Custom Vacations expert to develop a unique trip based on your interests, timing and budget.

Since 1945, three generations of the Perillo family have perfected the art of traveling to Italy, making Perillo Tours America’s leading tour operator to the country. Crafting itineraries that perfectly balance sightseeing, free time and activities, Perillo offers glimpses into each Italian city and region’s rich traditions. A growing company, Perillo has expanded to new destinations offering fully escorted tours to Greece, Ireland, Portugal, Spain and Hawaii. For parties of 10 or more, Perillo’s Custom Groups creates bespoke itineraries to various European destinations.

Andiamo! Visit PerilloTours.com to plan your trip today.

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How Radiant Heat Benefits Homes Inside and Out

2026-09-15T10:59:00

(BPT) – From warm floors to fogless mirrors to driveways free of snow and ice, radiant offers countless solutions for energy-efficient comfort, convenience, safety and sustainability.

Have you ever walked into a home and experienced the incredible comfort of radiant floor heating beneath your feet? If you haven’t, imagine stepping out of a shower and onto cold tile. Instead of the startling chill, you’re able to relax from the warmth radiating from the floor.

That’s the beauty and comfort of radiant heating.

In a hydronic radiant heating system, warm water flows through flexible plastic piping called PEX that is installed under or within the floors. The warmth radiates up to surround people and objects in contact with the floor surface, creating a comfortable space that also promotes indoor environmental quality (IEQ).

Air Quality and Energy Advantages

With hydronic radiant heating, pumps quietly circulate water through pipes. This is in stark contrast to traditional HVAC systems that use fans or blowers to push air — along with dust, allergens and odors — through loud and noisy ductwork located in floors, ceilings and walls. In fact, many people with allergies insist on hard-surface floors with radiant heating systems due to the superior air quality of the system.

Radiant systems are also much more energy-efficient than traditional HVAC systems. This is because water has the capacity to transport energy 3,500 times greater than air. Radiant is also more energy-efficient because the warmth stays near the floor, closer to people. In traditional HVAC systems, hot air enters a room and rises to the ceiling.

Also, because radiant systems are designed in zones, different areas of a home can have different temperatures based on need. So, rooms with more use, such as living rooms, can be set to a warmer thermostat setting, while rarely used spaces, such as a guest bedroom, can have a cooler setting.

Hydronic radiant heating systems can be even more energy-efficient when paired with sustainable heat sources, such as geothermal and solar. In fact, these systems can provide a structure with free heat, which is the most energy-efficient form of comfort.

Unique Radiant Applications

While radiant heating is typically used in living rooms, basements, bedrooms and bathroom floors, there are many other applications to consider.

Shower walls can use radiant heating to help keep more warmth in the space. Radiant heating can also be used to keep mirrors from fogging up or provide warmth for towel racks.

Radiant is also a good option for quickly drying entryway floors during rainy seasons. This is not only a comfort benefit, but also a safety solution.

Another unique option is adding radiant heating to kitchen countertops. This distinctive application helps keep hot food warmer for longer periods of time.

Snow and Ice Melting

In colder climates, radiant heating can be a game-changer in winter. Instead of doing the laborious task of plowing, shoveling or salting an exterior surface, such as a driveway or walkway, a snow and ice melting system can automatically do the work for you.

These systems can be designed to automatically turn on at the first sign of snow or ice. When the surface warms above freezing, the snow and ice immediately melt on contact. No need to grab a shovel and go out in the cold.

Snow and ice melting systems help extend the life of exterior surfaces, eliminate the expense of salt or sand, and conserve gas and reduce pollution by eliminating the need for snow blowers and plows.

An additional radiant application that provides comfort, convenience and safety includes radiant heating in garages to quickly melt snow and ice off cars. Plus, it offers a warm car to get into on cold winter mornings.

Snow covered house with a clear, dry concrete driveway. Professionals Alliance can help you find a radiant heat installer.

Installing Radiant Into (and Outside) a Home

Whether building a new-construction home or remodeling an existing structure, radiant heating is an option for both. There are several products, controls and systems available to meet any application. However, what is most important is finding a knowledgeable and experienced radiant installer.

A properly designed system is critical for optimal system performance. Radiant heating systems require precise calculations that consider factors such as building load, thermal properties, floor coverings and more to ensure the system will perform efficiently and reliably for decades.

To learn more about radiant heating as well as snow and ice melting systems and to find a radiant installer near you, visit the Radiant Professionals Alliance, HeatingHelp.com or uponor.com.

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Fall Reset Mode: Clever Hacks to Refresh Your Space

2026-09-15T07:01:00

(BPT) – Fall has a way of inspiring a fresh start at home and motivating you to dive into all kinds of projects. From swapping out your wardrobe and closet cleanouts to decorating, DIY projects and even a big move, a seasonal reset can feel exciting. With packed fall schedules, finding simple, low-stress ways to get it all done can make a big difference. A few clever shortcuts can help save time, cut down on extra supplies and make bigger projects feel much more manageable.

One MVP in your cleanup kit might surprise you: Hefty® Ultra Strong™ Large Trash Bags. Their large 30-gallon capacity makes them a convenient go-to for bulky, heavy or oversized items that come with big cleanup jobs, like moving, decluttering, garage organization or home improvement — and they’re available in a variety of fresh scents like Fabuloso® Lavender.

This fall, embrace these big cleanup moments with helpful tips from the experts at Hefty®.

Storage hacks for your fall closet reset

As fall approaches, it’s time to make room for the bulkier winter clothes about to take over your closet. Pack summer outfits into a Hefty Ultra Strong Large Black Trash Bag, then use a vacuum to suck out the extra air and tape the bag closed. This DIY vacuum-seal hack helps compress clothes, so they take up less storage space while also keeping them covered and protected from dust until it’s warm again.

For hanging clothes, don’t bother taking everything off the hangers. Keep 5-10 items together, cut a small hole in the bottom of the bag, and slide the hanger hooks through. Pull the bag over the clothes and tie it closed at the bottom. When it’s time to unpack or switch your wardrobe again, simply hang the whole bundle back up.

Pro tip: When the summer months roll back around, reverse the closet reset and use the same hack to compress and store your bulky winter clothes until next season. These closet hacks are great for moving, too!

Think beyond the box on moving day

Whether you’re moving into your first dorm, upgrading to a new apartment or getting the keys to your first home, moving marks an exciting new chapter, but can easily be a stressful event. Hefty Ultra Strong Large Trash Bags offer an easy alternative to boxes for soft, bulky items like bedding, towels, pillows and clothing.

Unlike boxes, bags are easier to fit into open spaces in a car or moving truck, making it possible to maximize the room you have. For a dorm move, they also mean fewer empty boxes to immediately get rid of while you’re trying to unpack and settle into a small space.

Keeping a few large trash bags on hand can also be useful during those final hours of packing, when there always seems to be one more item that needs somewhere to go. Instead of running out to get another box, you already have an easy packing solution ready.

Pro tip: Once you’re unpacked, put the bags to work again for move-in cleanup or use them to store bulky, off-season clothes and bedding.

Make your closet purge easier to sort

Reach for Hefty Ultra Strong Large Trash Bags to sort and organize clothing, shoes and any other items as you clean out closets throughout your home. These large, sturdy bags make it easier to pack and transport bulky items, whether they’re headed to a clothing exchange, consignment shop or another destination.

Pro tip: Give yourself three categories before you start: keep/store, donate or sell. Having a designated bag ready for each category keeps the cleanout moving and prevents second-guessing.

Conquer the post-party mess

The party may be over, but cleanup doesn’t have to put a damper on the fun. Keep Hefty Ultra Strong Large Trash Bags handy so bottles, cups, decorations and other party waste can go in one place. With a little planning before guests arrive, you can make the end-of-night cleanup even easier.

Pro tip: Put bags near high-traffic spots, like the snack table or drink station, before guests arrive so cleanup happens as the party goes instead of all at once when the night ends.

Celebrate your creativity without the cleanup chaos

DIY projects are a great way to express your creativity and refresh your space for the season without breaking the bank. But they can also get messy fast. Keeping Hefty Ultra Strong Large Trash Bags nearby can help contain scraps, packaging, dirt and debris as you work.

No drop cloth? No problem! Cut open and spread a large trash bag beneath your workspace to help catch debris while painting, repotting plants, crafting or tackling other home projects. When finished, simply roll up your makeshift trash bag “drop cloth” with the mess inside for a quick cleanup.

Pro tip: For larger projects, overlap multiple trash bags to create a wider protective surface.

Put a fresh, feel-good spin on cleanup

Taking out the trash may never top your favorite-things-to-do list, but that doesn’t mean the routine can’t get a small upgrade. Hefty Ultra Strong Large Trash Bags come in scents like Fabuloso Lavender, White Pine Breeze, Fabuloso Watermelon and Fabuloso Peach. Pick a scent that fits your space and bring a little freshness to an everyday chore.

However you’re updating your space this fall, a few clever shortcuts can make the process easier from start to finish. With less time spent managing the mess, you’ll have more time to enjoy the clean, organized space you created. Find the right versatile solution for your next big cleanup project at Hefty.com.

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How one company sees AI expand opportunity for American workers

2026-09-15T07:01:00

(BPT) – During this time of major technological upheaval and uncertainty, many have concerns about what the AI evolution means for the U.S. job market. For leading AI Builder and technology services provider Cognizant, the key to growing the economy lies in focusing on the American worker. In fact, the company’s research finds that AI could unlock $4.5 trillion in U.S. labor productivity and $1 trillion in additional U.S. economic value over the next decade.

“We believe AI will create significantly more jobs than it displaces, and shifts greater value, wages and accountability to the frontlines of America’s workforce,” said Ravi Kumar S, CEO of Cognizant. “The opportunity now is to build those pathways quickly, so American workers and enterprises capture that value first.”

Building on that belief, Cognizant is taking steps to ensure that more U.S. jobs — and job training — is in line with the needs of the future.

Hiring new college grads for the AI era

This year, Cognizant is hiring 1,500 U.S. college graduates from across the country to fill newly created AI-era jobs in the company.

To find these new employees, Cognizant is drawing on partnerships with the University of Georgia, Arizona State University and the University of Kentucky, as well as its role as a national program sponsor of registered apprenticeships with the U.S. Department of Labor.

“We’re hiring American graduates and standing up new American job categories specifically for the AI era,” added Kumar.

The new roles the company has created and is currently hiring for include Frontier Certified Engineer (FCE) and Frontier Business Operator (FBO), which are both part of Cognizant’s AI-era professional job family.

  • FCEs work directly with client organizations to reimagine and realign business processes for today’s AI-enabled environment. FCEs will specialize in rethinking how work gets done, identifying where AI can reshape operations, eliminate friction and create lasting competitive advantage. The FCE role requires both strategic thinking and technical fluency, making it one of the most consequential pivot points into the AI-era workforce.
  • FBOs take an equally critical approach. Tasked with taking full ownership of operational results, they’ll manage a blended workforce of human and digital labor including deploying AI agents, automation and human judgment in concert to drive business outcomes.

More simply put: Where Frontier Certified Engineers redesign the map, Frontier Business Operators navigate it in real time.

Cognizant is building a leading enterprise AI implementation position among frontier AI providers, and American workers trained in these roles get direct access to the tools defining the AI era. Cognizant holds more than 15,000 Claude certifications, the most of any Anthropic partner globally, and 5,000 Codex certifications, as one of a small group of global OpenAI Codex partners while Google Cloud is expanding its Gemini Enterprise partnership with Cognizant around Frontier Certified Engineers and scaled client execution.

Just how effective is Frontier AI capability?

The company’s new approach and groundbreaking roles are already delivering impressive measurable results for real-world clients. A Frontier Certified Engineer and Frontier Business Operator pod recently reimagined a large food-service company’s account-management workflow into 17 production AI agents.

The result? The effort reclaimed roughly 11 hours per account manager each week.

Committing to the future

In addition to creating, hiring and training for new roles to meet the moment, Cognizant has joined RAISE US, a new bipartisan national coalition. Ravi Kumar S sits on its Advisory Board alongside leaders from Amazon, Anthropic, Bank of America, IBM, Microsoft and the OpenAI Foundation.

Furthering its commitment to training the workforce of the future, Cognizant’s global Synapse skilling initiative has already surpassed its original goal of training one million people a full year ahead of schedule, prompting the company to double its ambition to train two million people by 2030.

“The AI economy will be built by people who know how to work with AI, not by AI alone,” said Kumar. “Cognizant is proving that at scale, in American classrooms, on American campuses and inside American statehouses, and we intend to keep leading.”

Learn more about how Cognizant intends to help grow the technology workforce through direct investment in the American training infrastructure at Cognizant.ai.

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What is the Florida housing market doing right now?

2026-09-15T05:01:00

(BPT) – Key takeaways:

  • Data from Florida Realtors® shows the housing market is stabilizing.
  • Sustained sales, balancing inventory and steady pricing give buyers time to weigh options.
  • Homebuyers and Realtors® can find reliable data in reports from Florida Realtors®, with monthly housing reports led by Chief Economist Dr. Brad O’Connor.
  • Making a decision about buying a home is highly personal and can benefit from local expertise and guidance of a Realtor®.

After years of dramatic pandemic-era ups and downs and the transition period that followed, the 2026 Florida housing market has shown clear signs of stabilizing. According to data from Florida Realtors®, led by Chief Economist Brad O’Connor, Ph.D., today’s market is becoming more balanced and predictable, bringing welcome news to homebuyers trying to make sense of mixed market signals.

“It’s easy to focus on a single month’s numbers, but headline statistics don’t always tell the real story,” said O’Connor. “Dramatic percentage swings can obscure the bigger picture. Looking at longer-term trends, with the proper context, provides a clearer view of current market conditions.”

Here’s a look at what’s really going on with Florida real estate today.

What are signs of a stable housing market?

The pandemic-era real estate surge was followed by a period of declining sales as the market adjusted, revealing a market in transition. Today’s story is different: a steadier, more predictable rhythm, supported by more than 10 months of:

  • Sustained year-over-year increases in closed sales
  • Inventory continuing to normalize
  • Pricing holding steady

Recent data reinforces those longer-term trends. According to Florida Realtors®, the number of total statewide existing single-family home sales in July was up 5% from the previous year, with existing condo-townhouse sales also up for the 11th straight month. Single-family home median sale prices were up 3.7% year-over-year. In another welcome sign, condo/townhouse median prices, which have seen challenges in recent years, are holding steady, remaining consistent with July 2025.

New pending sales and pending inventory have consistently risen year over year for single-family homes and condos/townhouses, as well, suggesting more positive activity ahead.

Today’s market conditions give Floridians more room to make decisions based on their lives, not the latest headlines.

Is now a good time to buy a house in Florida?

No matter what state you live in, buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you can make. It’s a long-term investment tied to stability, family and your future, and the best move is one that fits your needs.

A stable housing market matters because it gives buyers confidence. It reduces concerns that you need to rush into a decision or that market conditions could shift dramatically soon after you purchase a home.

“Florida’s steadier market gives you time to take a good look at your family’s needs, where you want to live and what you can comfortably afford,” said Florida Realtors® 2026 President Chuck Bonfiglio. “Today’s market conditions give Floridians more room to make decisions based on their lives, not the latest headlines. Ultimately, the right time to buy a home is when it’s right for you.”

Where can you find reliable statewide Florida real estate data?

Florida Realtors® provides the most comprehensive housing data and analysis in the state, making it a great place to start when trying to understand broader market trends. But because conditions can vary greatly by metro area, county and ZIP code, your local Realtor® can help you understand what’s happening on the ground where you live.

The statewide data can tell you the direction the market is going, but local data from a trained expert who is fully immersed in your local community will help you make the right decision for you.

Aerial view of residential neighborhood in the Pompano Beach area of South Florida just north of Fort Lauderdale.

Do you need a Realtor® to buy a home in Florida?

Finding the best options for your family, navigating the real estate market, negotiating with a seller and managing the financial ins and outs of homebuying can all be daunting, and not just for first-time buyers.

Realtors® have the knowledge and experience to support families through every step. They help families understand local market conditions, weigh goals, break down costs (like insurance and mortgage) and find financial assistance programs to make homeownership more attainable. A Realtor® brings hyper-local expertise to the table, while advocating for your best interests throughout the process.

How do I know if it’s the right time to buy a home?

Homebuying is an investment that can provide a family financial stability for generations, while also providing something less tangible but equally important: a place to put down roots and call home. On average, homeowners have a net worth roughly 40 times greater than the average renter.

But it’s also a big commitment. Anyone interested in buying a home needs to weigh multiple factors, including their overall financial situation, where they want to live, how long they want to live there and their family’s needs.

While the decision is highly personal, it helps to have guidance from a Realtor® who knows the market and understands the responsibilities and obligations as well as the advantages of homeownership.

“There are few investments that combine long-term financial growth with everyday stability the way homeownership does,” said Bonfiglio. “Building equity creates real wealth over time, and predictable housing costs give families the confidence they need to plan for their futures, save and put down roots.”

Frequently Asked Questions:

  • What’s the median price of a Florida home?
    According to the Florida Realtors®, in July 2026, the single-family median price was $425,000, and the condo/townhouse median price was $295,000. With any purchase, ask about additional costs like potential HOA fees and homeowner’s insurance. Find current pricing trends at FloridaRealtors.org.
  • What’s going on with homeowner’s insurance in Florida today?
    Bonfiglio explains that improvements in the property insurance industry followed significant reforms in 2022 and 2023. Twenty-one new carriers have entered the market, helping improve access and decrease rates. Homeowners can benefit from recent changes by shopping their policy at renewal time, or when they make home improvements.
  • Does it still make sense to buy a home in today’s economy?
    Unlike rent, mortgage payments build equity and offer predictability, turning a necessary monthly housing cost into a long-term asset that can support future goals and offer flexibility as life changes.
  • Should I wait for mortgage rates to come down before buying a home?
    It’s nearly impossible to predict where mortgage rates will go next. While they may move up or down over time, today’s rates are closer to historical averages than the unusually low rates seen during the pandemic, and most experts don’t expect 2-4% rates to return anytime soon. Waiting could mean delaying the opportunity to build equity through homeownership. The better question is not where rates will be six months from now, but whether buying a home makes sense for your needs and financial goals today.

“Purchasing a home can be one of the best investments you make when the time is right for your and your family’s goals,” said Bonfiglio. “But homeownership is about more than building wealth. It’s about having a place to make your own and to build your future.”

Learn more about the Florida housing market at FloridaRealtors.org.

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5 facts about crypto that may surprise you

2026-09-14T08:01:01

(BPT) – By Ali Tager, Vice President of External Affairs, National Cryptocurrency Association

Sixty-seven million Americans, or one in four adults, now hold crypto. Despite crypto’s established presence, there’s still misinformation and confusion about the technology.

Everyday people and businesses are using these digital tools for practical, real-world purposes like sending money to friends and family, accepting payments, donating to charity, or paying for goods and services.

Our latest research shows that crypto is becoming mainstream, moving from a novel concept into an everyday financial tool.

1. Crypto is being adopted by everyday Americans

Crypto isn’t just for tech bros or the financial elite. Instead, holders reflect the everyday American in a variety of ways:

  • Nearly a quarter of holders make $75,000 or less per year
  • They are just as likely to work in construction as in technology
  • 18% of new holders are between 18 and 24 years old, and 28% are 55 or older
  • Women account for 42% of new crypto holders

Karin is one of those women. She was an unbanked, middle-class housewife who was financially cut-off, until she taught herself to trade crypto. She used crypto to rebuild her finances and secure a future for herself and her children. Crypto became a lifeline for her, and helped her achieve financial sovereignty and freedom. Traditional financial systems hadn’t worked for her, but crypto did.

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2. Crypto supports financial independence

For millions of Americans, crypto is a practical tool that fits directly into daily life. More than half of holders say using digital assets has increased their financial independence, including Jake, a small business owner in California.

His dream was to manage his businesses and have time to spend with his family. With crypto, he can access his finances whenever, wherever. Crypto gave him more autonomy over his own life and finances, and he treats it as part of the future he’s building for his kids.

Jake isn’t alone. For many holders, it comes down to basic convenience and personal agency.

3. The crypto industry is driving broader economic growth

Crypto supports approximately 232,000 jobs across the U.S., spanning customer service, trucking, healthcare and more. Crypto jobs are creating $55 billion in economic activity and $31 billion in worker income each year. When more people can fully participate in financial systems, more economic activity is created for individuals, local businesses and communities.

Clayton, a master plumber in Texas, runs his family’s 80-year-old company. After doing his own research over 10 years ago, he decided to enter the crypto space. Over time, crypto naturally became integrated into his company, and he now accepts it alongside cards, checks and cash. Offering crypto at checkout gives customers more choice, just like the card reader did years ago.

4. Clear education is essential for the future

Crypto has become a gateway into financial literacy more broadly. More than half of holders cited learning and personal growth as a benefit, up from 45% the year before — a growing signal that engaging with crypto is teaching people more about their finances overall. Expanding plain-language educational resources and practical learning tools is essential to lowering these hurdles, demystifying the technology, and empowering everyday individuals to participate in the digital economy with confidence.

5. Regulatory clarity and consumer protection

Alongside accessible education, establishing smart consumer safeguards will be fundamental to building long-term trust, safety and stability in digital finance. Nearly three-quarters of current holders (73%) believe it’s important for the U.S. to become the global leader in crypto. The same number want stronger consumer protections measures for people investing in, holding or using crypto. American crypto holders want to navigate digital asset tools safely, securely and transparently, with 71% of today’s holders asking for comprehensive legislation that addresses gaps in current law.

Establishing thoughtful, common-sense frameworks provides the structural clarity needed to protect consumers while encouraging responsible innovation.

How to learn more about crypto

NCA helps make sense of crypto by sharing real stories from everyday people and small businesses from across the country, providing educational resources, and offering guidance and support.

If you’re ready to learn more, explore our free guides, educational tools and real-world stories at NCA.org/resources.

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Tummy troubles for Fido? How to help your pet feel better

2026-09-14T10:01:00

(BPT) – Diarrhea in pets has a way of showing up at the worst possible time, leaving pet parents scrambling for answers and unsure whether to wait it out or call the vet. It’s one of the most common reasons pets feel under the weather, and it’s not always obvious what will actually help.

Ahead of National Cat & Dog Gut Health Awareness Day on September 21, Purina Veterinary Nutritionist Martha Cline, DVM, DACVIM, shares some tips on what pet parents should know about easing their pet’s tummy troubles as soon as possible and keeping their gut healthy so it’s less likely to happen again.

What’s causing your pet’s diarrhea?

Diarrhea is a common complaint in both dogs and cats, with a wide range of potential causes, but there are two common culprits: diet and stress. A sudden food switch, a change in routine, new construction noise, or even a new pet or baby in the house can all play a role.

3 ways to help your pet feel better

1. Slowly introduce new foods

“If you’ve recently introduced a new food, it might not be sitting well with your cat or dog,” said Dr. Cline. “A slower introduction, or mixing it with their usual food, can help their stomach adjust.” If your pet’s diet has not changed, a temporary switch to a highly digestible or fiber-enhanced diet may help. Confirm with your vet before making any changes.

2. Provide a quiet environment

If things have been chaotic at home lately, give your pet a way to reset. For cats, that could be a place to escape the hustle and bustle, like a cozy hideaway or a special box of their own. Dogs tend to do best when sticking closely to their routine. Extra one-on-one attention and a chew toy can also help burn off nervous energy.

3. Consider a supplement

For extra support, skip the human medicine cabinet and stick to supplements designed specifically for pets.

“The best supplements for pets are created in collaboration with veterinarians with expertise in health and nutrition,” said Dr. Cline.

FortiFlora Diarrhea Response Kit for pets (dogs; cats) with occasional diarrhea from Pro Plan Veterinary Supplements is one option. Developed by Purina scientists, it pairs FortiFlora Response stick packs for short-term use to help firm loose stools with FortiFlora sachets — the No. 1 vet-recommended probiotic brand to support digestive health*, no prescription required. FortiFlora Response stick packs contain kaolin and pectin to soothe the GI tract during times of loose stool, and come in an easy-to-mix, liver-flavored powder you can pour right into your pet’s bowl.

“Diarrhea can be difficult for pets and pet parents, but having a plan takes a lot of stress out of it,” said Dr. Cline. “Keeping something like the FortiFlora Diarrhea Response Kit on hand means you’re ready no matter when it strikes.”

Additional signs to watch for

It helps to note how long the diarrhea lasts and any other symptoms that show up. These details can point to whether there’s a bigger issue.

“If you notice vomiting, changes in appetite or energy, or diarrhea that isn’t improving or worsens within 72 hours, it’s time to call your veterinarian,” added Dr. Cline.

The best supplements for pets are created in collaboration with veterinarians with expertise in health and nutrition.

How to prep for your vet visit

If you do need to see your vet, a little prep goes a long way:

  • Take note of the details. Frequency, whether there’s blood or mucus, and any straining are all useful to share. The Fecal Scoring Chart from Purina Institute is a helpful tool for describing what you’re seeing.
  • Collect a sample so your vet can screen for parasites, another common cause of diarrhea.
  • Offer plenty of fresh water to help prevent dehydration.

How to support your pet’s gut health long-term

An episode of diarrhea can be handled in the moment, but the goal is to help your pet avoid another round of it. That’s where the FortiFlora sachets come in: daily use helps keep your pet’s digestive and immune systems on track. They contain Enterococcus lactis SF68, a safe, effective single-strain probiotic that helps promote healthy digestive and immune systems, backed by over 20 years of research.

So next time your pet’s stomach acts up, there’s no more debating what to do or searching for answers at midnight. With a plan already in place, pet parents can skip the stress and get straight to helping their pet feel better.

*Online survey among all qualified U.S. veterinarians who indicated the brand as one of 1-3 brands recommended, Q4 2025.