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Creativity redefined: How SMBs are using full-service visual platforms to capture audience attention

2026-01-16T13:01:00

(BPT) – For small and mid-size businesses (SMBs), capturing audiences’ attention has never been more challenging. In a world of content overload, it all starts with catching their eye.

Creative photo and video libraries are a simple and accessible solution for many SMBs to quickly find and purchase quality images, even with a small marketing budget. However, the rise of AI-generated images has changed the creative landscape. Businesses are experimenting with AI to find efficiencies, but they also need their marketing to look and feel authentic while ensuring the content they use is commercially safe, whether they’re working with their own images or sourcing them from a creative library.

Fortunately, there is a commercially safe way to elevate creative visuals, with no technical expertise required. iStock’s AI suite is making it possible for businesses of all sizes to quickly and confidently edit standout marketing images, all while ensuring their visuals are licensed and protected.

Stay flexible, consistent and safe while standing out from the competition

As a leading global source of visual content, iStock — backed by the extensive resources and expertise of Getty Images — offers SMBs and creators a vast creative library at an accessible price point. Now, with its suite of AI-powered tools, customers gain even more flexibility and creative control while saving time and money.

iStock makes it simple to create or customize visuals for a variety of marketing needs, from sketching a proof of concept to refreshing an existing campaign to generating all-new images that leap off the page, whether generating a visual through its intuitive Prompt Builder, to modifying an existing image to fit your audience and aesthetic.

A screen shot of iStock's AI suite used to modify an existing image of a pair of skates to remove the background.

No matter what they create, customers can rest assured that their outputs are backed by robust legal protection and free of copyrighted material. Built in partnership with Bria, the AI tools are trained on licensed creative content, including from iStock’s creative library.

Here are just a few of the ways SMBs can pair iStock’s rich library of creative content with AI modification capabilities to easily adapt, modify and elevate visual storytelling:

Modify images and create variations at scale: Campaigns can shift quickly, and visuals need to keep up. iStock’s AI suite lets SMBs adapt existing high-quality images in seconds by swapping in new objects, updating key elements, or expanding the frame to fit new layouts or aspect ratios.

Side by side images of a girl holding a bouquet of wildflower and a girl holding a bouquet of roses. iStock's AI suite lets SMBs adapt existing high-quality images in seconds by swapping in new objects, updating key elements, or expanding the frame to fit new layouts or aspect ratios.


Showcase your product in any scene: With iStock’s object placement tool, users can place their product (or other object) into any background or scenario.

Ensure visual consistency: Refreshing an old campaign or giving evergreen content a seasonal makeover shouldn’t compromise the visual voice of a brand. With object placement, color-matched background changes and reference-guided adjustments, SMBs can keep every visual asset aligned with brand tone, palette and composition while still giving it a fresh look.

Localize and personalize: Consumers want to see content that feels relatable and personalized to them. iStock’s suite allows SMBs to easily localize creative content by adding context-specific elements, or removing objects that don’t fit a specific region or demographic, all while maintaining image quality and authenticity.

Stand out across channels: It’s easy for marketing campaigns to get lost in the flood of content that audiences see across social, mobile and email. iStock’s tools help SMBs quickly expand or refocus platform-optimized visuals that capture audiences’ attention, translating curiosity into clicks.

To further help SMBs and marketers stay on top of the latest market shifts, Getty Images’ VisualGPS platform offers exclusive creative insights and decades’ worth of visual trends — from color palettes to consumer preferences.

Create eye-catching marketing imagery without breaking the bank

iStock’s extensive creative library and suite of AI modification tools give SMBs the power to create and iterate on scroll-stopping visuals that generate real business value. To learn more and get started, visit ai.istockphoto.com/vmr.

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When Every Ounce Matters: Baby Blake’s Journey to Health

2026-01-16T08:01:00

(BPT) – Laura and her husband thought they were prepared for parenthood. She was a nurse; he was a former nuclear engineer turned financial advisor. They were eagerly anticipating the arrival of their daughter Blake, but nothing could have prepared them for what happened when Laura went into labor about four months early at just 24 weeks.

Blake arrived weighing only 1 pound, immediately requiring intensive medical support in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). Like many families facing premature birth, Laura and her husband found themselves navigating a world of medical decisions they never imagined having to make.

In the early weeks, Blake seemed to be improving. She was receiving Laura’s breastmilk supplemented with what the hospital called “human milk fortifiers” — although Laura would later learn these fortifiers were actually made from cow milk, not human milk.

When everything changed

At about six weeks, Blake’s condition took a frightening turn. Her belly became round and stiff, and she stopped having bowel movements. When Laura and her husband arrived at the hospital the next morning, the care team delivered devastating news: Blake had developed necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), a potentially fatal intestinal disease.

That diagnosis marked the beginning of the most challenging period of their NICU journey. Blake faced three surgeries for her NEC, each performed at her bedside because she wasn’t stable enough to be moved to an operating room.

Despite her nursing background, Laura found herself overwhelmed and helpless, so she focused on how to best advocate for her baby.

Learning about better nutrition options

As Blake recovered from her multiple surgeries and the care team began discussing nutrition again, Laura did her own research. She discovered that there are two very different types of fortifiers available for premature babies: one made from cow milk, and one made from breastmilk.

Laura learned that most products labeled “human milk fortifiers” are made from cow milk and that in the U.S., only Prolacta Bioscience made fortifiers from 100% donor breastmilk. For fragile preemies like Blake, this difference mattered significantly. Studies show that preemies receiving breastmilk-based fortifiers have a significantly lower risk of developing NEC compared to those fed cow milk-based products.

Fighting for change

When Laura brought up breastmilk-based fortifiers with Blake’s care team, she was told the hospital didn’t carry them. Laura recalled the hospital’s first concern was cost, but she pushed back: “What about the chances of her getting a cow milk-based fortifier and having a recurrence of NEC? Where does cost factor in for that?”

Laura continued to advocate firmly for her daughter, until both a neonatologist and dietitian successfully pushed the hospital for the products. This ultimately made Blake the hospital’s first preemie to receive breastmilk-based fortifiers. Since her complicated journey with NEC, the hospital changed its standard feeding protocol so that any preemie at risk of NEC receives human milk-based nutrition free from cow milk.

Finding hope in darkness

“I had zero hope,” Laura shared, recalling the darkest days in the NICU. “However, even when she couldn’t tolerate breastmilk or formula, just knowing that a breastmilk-based fortifier was another option was a light that hadn’t been there before.”

Imagine the relief and joy felt by Blake’s parents when she was finally able to go home after 127 days in the NICU! Her story demonstrates the power of parental advocacy and the importance of having access to optimal nutrition options for premature babies.

Hospitals nationwide can order Prolacta’s breastmilk-based fortifiers for overnight delivery, even if they don’t routinely offer them. When your little one is fighting to grow strong enough to go home, every nutritional decision matters. Educational resources are available to help support parents. Knowing your options helps ensure your baby gets the nutrition they need to grow strong and thrive.

Any views, opinions, findings, assertions, conclusions or recommendations expressed are solely those of the individual. The content is provided for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice.

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Why Contracts Should Be a Company’s #1 Focus in 2026

2026-01-16T08:07:01

(BPT) – Personal New Year’s resolutions usually come with gym membership and ambitious habits. For companies, they show up in spreadsheets, a mix of optimism, logic and recalculated risk. As 2026 approaches, one critical business workflow deserves more attention than annual forecasts usually give it.

Contracts.

Contracts are a medium of trust between a company and its key stakeholders, representing the business’ risk, revenue and reputation. This means managing them is as important as it is complex. In technical terms, contract lifecycle management (CLM) governs how every commercial agreement is created, negotiated, signed, tracked and fulfilled.

However, managing contracts from start to finish is a time-consuming and complex process, if not managed properly.

According to the report, “The Race is On: Navigating Uncertainty Through CCM Resilience” by World Commerce & Contracting (WorldCC) in collaboration with Sirion, a leader in the CLM space, and produced by the Commerce & Contract Management Institute (CCM Institute), 70%-80% of organizations lack clear accountability for the quality and integrity of the contracting process. Without clear accountability or ownership of the contracting process, enterprises leave themselves vulnerable to risk, compromising transparency and ultimately trust.

Future-focused enterprises that are seeking to upgrade their existing CLM platforms and keep pace with a changing industry in 2026 would do well to embrace intelligent contracting run by next-generation technology: Agentic AI.

The Gap in Enterprise Contracting

CLM was meant to bring structure to commercial agreements. Instead, it became a process where teams endured long approval cycles, scattered ownership, repetitive redlining and more routing than reasoning.

While many companies know that contract management is a critical aspect of business success, there is a significant gap between knowing and doing. The Sirion-WCC research also highlights that even though 88% of executives understand that Contract and Commercial Management (CCM) excellence matters, it’s often deferred because of its complexity. These aren’t edge cases. This is the baseline experience of global contracting.

AI automation has helped contracts move along, but it has not always helped the documents get sharper. That’s because the real bottleneck in contracting isn’t motion — it’s in output quality.

Output is where intelligent contracting powered by governed, agentic AI really shines. This isn’t simply AI that drafts. It’s an agent that, through the clauses, maps them to policy, and explains the risk like a reviewer would, minus the swivel-chair chaos.

Sirion’s founder and CEO Ajay Agrawal brings home the point. “Most of what is sold today as ‘AI for contracts’ still starts and ends with a text generator.” He adds, “It can draft, summarize or spot keywords, but it doesn’t reason. It can’t tell you why a clause is risky, or how that risk maps to a company’s playbook.”

Knowing how to spot risks is critical when contracts and clauses are at play, especially when external factors, like mergers and acquisitions or political forces such as tariffs, create an impact on agreements across the globe.

To truly lead a business into the future, the need of the hour is AI that is trained by lawyers and engineers to understand an enterprise’s needs; helping with better reasoning and working with higher efficiency and accuracy, where every clause, negotiation and decision can be traced, explained and trusted.

The Future of Contracting Is Not Just Autonomous. It’s Accountable.

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Accountability is the name of the game for contract management in 2026. CLM platforms must deliver more than just contracting efficiency solely based on saving time through automation. Governable AI for CLM must offer risk management and ownership over the contracting process.

For enterprises seeking to improve their contracting, their CLM resolutions list would look similar to these goals below:

1. Set a real target to shorten contract timelines without increasing rework.

2. Evaluate AI by the quality of its logic, not just speed.

3. Lock core risk positions into governed playbooks.

4. Surface revenue, compliance and clause collisions before negotiation begins.

5. Shift to issue-based review, not serial document edits.

6. Create one place for commitments across legal, procurement, sales and finance.

7. Ensure that every change has a reasoning and playbook reference.

8. Prioritize CLM platforms that pause when confidence is low.

9. Make contracts a common, enterprise-wide language for risk and revenue.

10. Track defensibility and insight, not just completion.

“2026 will be the year enterprises start asking harder questions, primary among them, ‘Can I trust this AI to act on my behalf?’ The answer will not come from bigger models or faster demos, but from systems that know their limits,” said Agrawal. “Governed agents will become the standard layer between human judgment and machine action: They’ll understand policy, explain every recommendation and decline to operate when the data isn’t defensible.”

To learn more about agentic AI’s potential for CLM in 2026, visit Sirion.AI.

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[Executive Corner] When Displays Become Interfaces: Pioneering Human-Centered Experiences in the SDV Era

2026-01-15T18:01:00

(BPT) – By Emerson Kim, VP & Division Leader of Display Development, LG Vehicle Solution Company

Software-defined vehicles (SDVs) are transforming mobility. As more of a vehicle’s capabilities move from fixed hardware to continuously evolving software, the driving experience itself becomes something that can grow, adapt and improve over time.

That shift raises an important question: how do we ensure this intelligence feels natural and trustworthy for the people behind the wheel?

At LG Electronics (LG), we believe the answer starts with the display. In an SDV, the display is no longer just a screen. It is the primary interface where software, hardware and human behavior come together.

Recently, I was honored to receive the 2026 MotorTrend SDV Innovator Award in the Pioneer category. For me, this recognition is not about ideas alone. It reflects our team’s ability to turn complex concepts into practical, production-ready solutions that can be deployed at scale.

Shy Tech: Rethinking How Drivers Interact With Technology

Our approach to human-centered displays is guided by a philosophy we call Shy Tech. The idea is simple: technology should not demand attention by default. Instead, it should maintain a physically and visually reserved presence, making itself known only when it adds clear and meaningful value.

SDVs make it possible to deliver virtually unlimited digital functionality inside the vehicle. But more information does not always mean a better experience. Constant visible screens can increase distraction and fatigue rather than clarity. Shy Tech addresses this by making displays appear only when needed. This context-aware approach minimizes visual noise, creating a calmer interior and reducing the driver’s cognitive load to reinforce focus and safety.

Shy Tech is not just about styling. It is a system-level approach that brings together display hardware, mechanical design and intelligent software. We are defining how technology behaves — when it shows up, how it moves and when it steps back — not just how it looks.

Redefining the Display in the SDV Cockpit

One of the clearest expressions of this philosophy is our Dual Mode 24.6-inch Glass OLED Pop-Up Display, a groundbreaking Glass OLED automotive display with software-controlled dual UX/UI.

The display transitions between the two modes, changing both its physical presence and functional role. When expanded, the display functions as an immersive content platform for streaming services and media experiences. When retracted, it becomes a driver-centric cluster, presenting a clear and focused view of essential information such as speed, navigation and Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) data.

Crucially, the solution is entirely software-driven, enabling the display to shift seamlessly between immersive infotainment and driver-focused information. This approach proves that engagement and safety do not have to compete — when intelligently orchestrated, they can coexist without compromising the driver’s attention.

Engineering Displays That Know When to Step Back

We apply the same thinking to our Bendable Moving Display technology. Instead of a simple on-off state, the display continuously adapts to the driving situation.

When information or entertainment is appropriate, the display emerges. When the driver needs focus, it retreats. These movements are orchestrated through intelligent software, enabling personalization, fluid motion and over-the-air updates as the system evolves.

Within this framework, software is not just a control layer. It becomes the architect of interaction, shaping what is displayed and when technology engages or steps back. This aligns with SDV principles of inherent flexibility and continuous improvement.

A Platform Mindset Shaped by Experience

These innovations are grounded on a platform-based mindset that LG has developed across mobile devices, consumer electronics and automotive systems. We design with scalability, software readiness and intuitive interaction in mind.

In the SDV era, this allows our display solutions to grow with the vehicle. Rather than being locked into fixed functions, they become part of a larger interaction framework that can be refined over time as software, services and user needs change.

Looking Ahead: Experience as the Measure of Innovation

The future of software-defined mobility will not be measured by how much technology a vehicle contains, but by how intelligently it delivers experiences.

Displays will play a central role in translating software into clarity, confidence and emotional connection. At LG, our goal is to build display technologies that empower without overwhelming, adapt without distracting and evolve without losing sight of human needs.

As SDVs continue to reshape mobility, we will keep pushing to ensure that technology serves people — quietly, seamlessly and intuitively.

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How to build a full day of protein-packed meals with one simple swap

2026-01-15T12:15:01

(BPT) – With the latest dietary guidelines emphasizing protein at every meal for sustained energy and overall health, boosting your intake doesn’t have to mean overhauling your entire diet. In fact, one of the easiest ways to sneak protein in your day is by upgrading something you already eat: bread.

Protein-rich bread options like Nature’s Own Life Wheat + Protein Bread pack 22g of protein per two slices while tasting just like classic wheat bread, making it the perfect swap for sandwiches, toast and even snacks. That means you can focus on protein-first eating without changing your favorite meals — just the bread they’re built on!

Here’s how to build a full day of protein-packed meals and snacks using protein-rich bread — just sub it in for whatever bread you’re already using. No big pantry overhaul needed.

Breakfast: Hot honey egg-in-a-hole or French toast roll-ups

Start your day with a spicy-sweet breakfast that feels restaurant worthy but takes mere minutes to make. Cut a hole in the center of a slice of protein-rich bread, place it in a lightly greased skillet, and crack an egg right into the middle. Cook until the whites are set and the yolk is as you like it; then finish with a drizzle of hot honey for a subtle kick. You’ll get protein from both the egg and the bread, helping keep you full through the morning without sacrificing comfort-food vibes.

Or, if you’re craving something sweet, try these Blueberry Cream Cheese French Toast Roll-Ups. Just flatten slices of protein-rich bread, filling them with lightly sweetened cream cheese and blueberries. Then roll them up, dip in egg and pan-fry ’til golden brown.

Lunch: Salad with protein croutons

If you love a big salad for lunch but find yourself hungry an hour later, croutons made from protein-rich bread can make a surprising difference. Cube your bread, toss with a little olive oil and garlic powder, then bake or air-fry until crispy. Sprinkle over your favorite salad — whether it’s greens with grilled chicken, chopped veggies or even a Caesar-style bowl. You’ll get crunch, flavor and an extra protein boost without adding heaviness, making this a smart upgrade for lighter lunches that still need staying power.

Afternoon snack: Melty protein toast bites

When the three o’clock munchies hit, turn protein-rich bread into a warm, savory snack. Cut slices into quarters, top with cheese (and chicken or deli meat if you want the bonus protein), then pop into the toaster oven, air fryer or microwave until melty. It’s quick, comforting and much more satisfying than a bag of chips.

Dinner: Garlic smash burgers on a protein-rich bun

Nothing beats a juicy burger after a long day. Just use two Nature’s Own Life Wheat + Protein slices as your buns. Toast them, mash patties with garlic and onion, add sliced cheese and serve with your favorite toppings. You’ll still get that indulgent dinner feel, just with more protein built right into the base of the meal.

Dessert: Bread pudding

Yes, even sweets can get a protein upgrade! Have leftover slices from earlier in the day? Cube your extra protein-rich bread and soak in a custard mix (eggs, milk, vanilla) then bake until golden and lightly crisp on the top. Make it your own by adding chocolate chips, or a seasonal berry, for a cozy dessert that feels indulgent but still fits into a balanced day of eating.

These simple swaps prove that adding protein doesn’t have to mean giving up the foods you love. Start with one meal or build a full day around it — either way, protein-rich bread makes it easier to support energy and fullness from morning to night.

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Signs to watch for when your child has a tummy-ache

2026-01-15T07:01:00

(BPT) – Gut health is a frequent topic in the news, for good reason. Having a healthy gut contributes to your overall well-being, impacting your immune system, metabolism and more. This is one reason parents should take notice when their child has stomach pain or other digestive issues. Stomachaches are a frequent complaint in childhood, and they can have many causes. While some are easily resolved, stomachaches can indicate a larger health issue.

“Because stomach pain can sometimes signal a more serious condition, it’s a good idea for parents to familiarize themselves with signs they shouldn’t ignore, and to ask the family’s pediatrician whenever they have questions about their child’s health,” said Dr. Reinaldo Garcia-Naveiro, director, Pediatric Gastroenterology, Akron Children’s.

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Reinaldo Garcia-Naveiro, MD, director of pediatric gastroenterology at Akron Children’s in Ohio, works alongside families to find answers for children with digestive concerns. Dr. Garcia-Naveiro cares for children with a wide range of gastrointestinal and liver conditions, including irritable bowel syndrome and celiac disease.

The experts at Akron Children’s offer tips to help parents recognize when a simple stomachache may not be so simple.

What to know when your child has a stomachache

“If your child complains about stomach pain, it’s important to check for other symptoms,” said Garcia-Naveiro. “Stomachaches can have many causes, from gas or constipation to stress, overeating, a contagious “stomach bug” like Norovirus, or chronic underlying conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or Crohn’s Disease, reflux or celiac disease.”

Stomach pain can also be caused by food allergies or food poisoning. Given these many potential causes, it’s vital to note any additional symptoms that can help your child’s doctor understand why your child isn’t feeling well.

Signs your child needs medical attention

“While many stomachaches quickly get better, it’s important to consult your doctor when pain is severe, occurs frequently or doesn’t go away,” added Garcia-Naveiro.

You should also call the doctor if your child has a stomachache and:

  • the pain seems very strong or worsens over time
  • the pain wakes them up from sleep
  • the pain is in the right lower side of the belly
  • is vomiting
  • is very fussy
  • is lethargic (very sleepy)
  • has another health condition

Tell the doctor about other symptoms your child has, such as:

  • a fever
  • pain when going to the bathroom
  • blood in urine or stool
  • a bad cough
  • weight loss over time

Symptoms that may accompany stomach pain

You should note any other symptoms your child may also experience while they have a stomachache, which can help clarify why their stomach hurts.

Vomiting: This is most often caused by gastroenteritis, an infection of the stomach and intestines that usually lasts less than 24 hours. Rarely, vomiting can signify a serious problem, including a blocked intestine, gallstones, pancreatitis or appendicitis. Frequent vomiting can lead to dehydration (not having enough water in the body). Children who continue vomiting or have severe dehydration need treatment in the emergency room or hospital.

Diarrhea: Soft/loose bowel movements are not uncommon in children. This usually doesn’t last long and often gets better on its own. Diarrhea can be caused by a number of different viruses, bacteria or parasites. Children can also get diarrhea from drinking too much juice and other sugar-sweetened beverages, or due to food allergies, lactose intolerance, taking antibiotics or resulting from medical problems like celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis) and irritable bowel syndrome. If your child has frequent diarrhea, or it doesn’t resolve in a few days, see their pediatrician to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.

Constipation is a common problem in children, and usually not cause for concern. You may notice your child having fewer than two bowel movements in a week, or dry, difficult-to-pass bowel movements. Constipation can be due to a diet without enough water and fiber, as found in foods like fresh fruits, vegetables and beans, which help bowels move as they should. Toilet training toddlers sometimes become constipated, and some children may avoid going to the bathroom if they don’t want to use a restroom away from home. Stress can also lead to constipation, and some kids may get constipated if they have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Other symptoms that can accompany children’s stomachaches include sore throat, heartburn, fever, bloating and painful urination. The combination of symptoms your child is having can help determine the cause of their stomach pain. Write down what you’re noticing, so you can share that information with their pediatrician.

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Dr. Garcia-Naveiro shares a light-hearted moment with a young patient, highlighting his thoughtful, patient-focused approach to care.


Expert medical care near you

When your child isn’t feeling well, it’s crucial to find a doctor you trust. Look for clinics and hospitals in your area that specialize in pediatric care. For example, in addition to primary care, Akron Children’s offers a comprehensive range of specialty care including Cardiology, ENT, Neurology and Orthopedics. Akron Children’s pediatricians and pediatric providers help kids find more childhood in every day, even when they’re sick.

Akron Children’s offers two hospital campuses, six regional health centers, over 45 primary care locations and nearly 250 providers, making it easier for today’s busy families to find high-quality care. Akron Children’s was recognized as one of America’s Best Children’s Hospitals, and named a top pediatric hospital in the U.S., according to Newsweek’s Best Children’s Hospitals of 2025 list.

The pediatric gastroenterology department at Akron Children’s combines its expertise in pediatric gastrointestinal diseases with advanced diagnostics and therapies to provide the highest-quality medical care to infants, children and teens with digestive problems, focusing on concerns unique to pediatric patients including growth, physical and emotional development and age-related social issues.

The team at Akron Children’s is experienced in diagnosing and treating all types of serious gastrointestinal, liver and pancreas disorders including celiac disease, gastroesophageal reflux, inflammatory bowel disease, hepatitis, pancreatitis and Crohn’s disease. The department also collaborates with Cincinnati Children’s Hospital for liver transplants.

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Stomachaches in children can have many causes, which is why expert, family-centered pediatric care is essential to help them feel better and thrive.

Find more health tips for parents, and learn more about Akron Children’s and their pediatric gastroenterology department, at AkronChildrens.org.

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Score big on game day with these easy entertaining tips

2026-01-14T16:27:00

(BPT) – Nothing beats gathering with friends to cheer on your favorite team — the energy, the camaraderie, those hard-won victories — and of course, share all that great food. With a little prep work, a solid game plan and simple crowd-pleasing dishes that are easy to serve and share, you can be the MVP of the game-day get-together.

Here are several tips to make the game-day celebration easier, more fun and tastier, too.

Make room for more guests

Ahead of game day, gather extra seating as needed and arrange it so all your guests will have a good view of the game. Clear out clutter and move any extra furniture that might get in the way, like side tables or other items so there’s space to move around. Too many decorative pillows crowding your sofa? Store the extras in a closet to give everyone room to huddle together at kickoff.

Show your true colors

Get everyone in the spirit by decking out the buffet table and viewing room in your team’s colors with themed banners, tablecloths and napkins. Encourage guests to wear their favorite team jerseys, even if they’re rooting for the opposition. You can also add small touches like themed coasters or drink stirrers to give the space a festive, game-day feel.

Keep the drinks flowing

Make sure guests can grab a drink without missing the action by setting up a self-serve station. Offer a mix of options — from beer or cocktails to sparkling water, soda and mocktails — and add fun touches like citrus slices and colorful garnishes. Keep cups and ice nearby so refills are effortless and everyone can enjoy their favorite beverages throughout the day.

Please crowds with easy sides and appetizers

Keep game day stress-free by choosing appetizers and sides that are quick to prepare. Opt for easy favorites that guests can grab and enjoy — think sliders, wings or a variety of chips and dips. Simple dishes like these let you focus on hosting while keeping the energy high and guests satisfied.

Did you know bacon is the fifth most added item to macaroni and cheese? For a ready-made crowd-pleaser, try Bob Evans Bacon Macaroni & Cheese. Microwave ready in five minutes, this creamy dish offers an indulgent blend of real cheese and bacon with a rich, savory hickory-smoked flavor and just the right touch of black pepper seasoning.

Take your appetizers up a notch with these Barbecue Pork Macaroni & Cheese Bites. These handheld bites combine cheesy and smokey Bacon Macaroni & Cheese with spicy barbecue pork for a flavorful twist that’s easy to prepare and ideal for sharing.

Barbecue Pork Macaroni & Cheese Bites

Prep time: 15 minutes; Cook time: 20 minutes; Servings: 12

Ingredients

  • 20 ounces Bob Evans Bacon Macaroni & Cheese
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/3 cup spicy barbecue sauce
  • 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded barbecue pork
  • 1 cup hamburger dill pickle chips

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Combine macaroni & cheese, cream cheese and barbecue sauce, stirring until blended.
2. Add breadcrumbs and beaten eggs, stirring until blended. Spoon mixture into wells of a lightly greased (24-cup) miniature muffin pan.
3. Bake 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
4. Meanwhile, heat pork in microwave if desired.
5. Top macaroni & cheese bites with shredded pork and pickles. Drizzle with additional barbecue sauce if desired.

Find this new flavor of macaroni and cheese to elevate your homegate spread, plus more game-day recipe inspiration at BobEvansGrocery.com.

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How a printer can help with your security and environmental sustainability efforts

2026-01-14T12:01:00

(BPT) – Even in the digital world, offices of every size use printers. Whether you’re making copies of documents, printing reports, scanning important information to deliver to your computer or faxing documents to vendors, having a reliable printer matters to everyday operations that keep your business running.

When choosing a printer, you likely prioritize visuals like print quality, speed, connectivity, efficiency and multifunctionality. However, these are just the basics. As you review your options, look for key security and environmental sustainability features that meet the demands of the modern work environment.

With these features in mind, Canon has expanded its imageFORCE printer lineup. The imageFORCE platform is engineered for versatility and performance, delivering Canon’s renowned image quality and robust high-volume systems which are great for busy departments, to space-saving models suited for smaller workgroups.

More importantly, this range of printers features various security and environmental sustainability features that can help your office step into the new year with smart and fast printing.**

Security features that can be integrated as part of your business efforts

Cyberattacks are on the rise, which can have the potential to put businesses of all sizes at risk of financial loss and data breaches and can also lead to a loss of client trust and reputation.

You may already have cybersecurity measures like antivirus software and firewalls in place, but what types of security features does your printer offer?

To help you in your efforts to protect your digital assets, you’ll need a printer with security features made to help you.

Luckily, Canon’s imageFORCE printer lineup is equipped with various security features designed to help you as part of your efforts to safeguard your infrastructure. For example, the Security Environment Estimation* feature is designed to help take the guesswork out of security settings by using an estimation algorithm developed by Canon to analyze the printer’s operating environment and make security setting recommendations suited to your specific office.**

imageFORCE printers also have the Trellix Embedded Control* option. Once turned on, it uses whitelisting to help protect against malware and prevent tampering of existing firmware and applications.**

Finally, Canon’s Unified Firmware Platform (UFP)* does the work of keeping your printer updated. With the UFP, your imageFORCE printer receives ongoing updates that may include additional security features as well as new features like synchronized user settings and expanded print and scan capabilities.

With imageFORCE devices you can print, scan, fax and store important documents while implementing these helpful features.**

Environmentally sustainable features that can support your business efforts

Environmental sustainability isn’t just a buzzword. In fact, it’s become an important area for businesses to consider. Not only can environmentally sustainable practices provide the potential to help your business cut down on costs, but they can also provide the ability to boost your reputation with eco-conscious consumers now and in the future.

Making positive changes doesn’t mean you have to overhaul your business practices overnight. Small steps can make a huge difference in the long run, like switching to a printer with a number of built-in environmental sustainability features.

As part of the company’s commitment to Kyosei — the idea of living and working together for the common good — Canon has created the imageFORCE printer line with a number of features that are designed to help reduce power consumption.

imageFORCE printers use a combination of highly efficient fusing technologies and low-melting-point toner that are designed to help minimize power requirements. Several products across this printer line are also backed by well-known certifications for energy efficiency and environmental responsibility including ENERGY STAR®, EPEAT 1.0 Gold, and EPEAT 1.0 Silver. EPEAT-registered imaging products meet an extensive list of environmental lifecycle-based criteria, and undergo verification by an independent third party to ensure they meet the ecolabel standards.

In addition, Canon has also reduced its use of plastic materials used for packaging select printer models in the imageFORCE lineup by switching from conventional foam packaging to interior cardboard packaging materials for the main unit, a widely recyclable material.

Print better, do more and stay ahead in 2026

Your office may be small, but your dreams are big. Start the year with technology that can support your business’s security and environmental sustainability efforts. To learn more and find the printer that’s right for your company in 2026 and beyond, visit www.usa.canon.com/imageforce.

*Not available on all models. This feature is off by default and must be turned on by the user. Warm up times are affected once turned on.

**Canon products offer certain security features, yet many variables can impact the security of your devices and data. Canon does not warrant that use of its security features or recommendations will prevent security issues. Customers should perform their own due diligence and consult with their security expert to determine what security features to implement for their organization.

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Support your business through expert IT and cybersecurity management

2026-01-14T11:01:00

(BPT) – Today’s businesses face unprecedented challenges, from the increasing complexity of digital transformations and hybrid cloud environments to constantly evolving cybersecurity threats and regulatory pressures. Cybercrime alone has been projected to reach $12 trillion globally this year, with the average U.S. data breach now costing over $9.36 million, and cyberattacks more than doubling between 2021 and 2025.

How can a business successfully navigate this rapidly changing technological landscape?

Choose an experienced, trusted partner that brings Managed IT Services and cybersecurity protection together under one roof. Canon U.S.A., in collaboration with its Managed IT Services Partner, Supra ITS, simplifies operations while reducing delays, confusion, and potential risk for organizations of all sizes.

A history of supporting businesses with vital technology

Since the 1990s, Canon U.S.A. has supported organizations through rapid change with Managed Workplace Services, including facilities management. During that time, Canon also provided digital, networked devices to help businesses successfully transition to the digital age.

In the 2000s, Canon launched its Managed Print Software Integration Services to meet growing customer requirements. In the 2010s, Canon continued to evolve — introducing cloud-based solutions to address changing business needs.

Today’s businesses are increasingly asking for Managed IT and Cybersecurity services, and Canon responded to this demand. They rose to meet these challenges by partnering with Supra ITS, which has over 25 years of proven expertise in this sector. This collaboration helps offer services and solutions designed to protect organizations and keep operations running smoothly.

Services to help your business thrive and improve security posture

With Canon’s Managed IT Services and their new approach to IT and Security offerings, businesses in the U.S. now have access to a comprehensive suite of solutions for managing office technology, IT infrastructure and cybersecurity — streamlining operations through a single provider. Existing Canon customers can also consolidate vendor management by leasing and billing both office equipment and Managed IT Services through Canon Financial Services, Inc., helping to simplify invoicing, improve billing transparency and strengthen vendor relationships.

Key Managed IT Services include:

24/7 IT Helpdesk and End-User Support for around-the-clock support with experienced technicians for rapid issue resolution, system monitoring, patching and updates designed to prevent problems before they escalate.

IT security support individuals at their computers similar to the professionals from Canon U.S.A., in collaboration with its Managed IT Services Partner, Supra ITS.

24x7x365 Network Security Operations Center (NSOC) which provides a centralized platform offering real-time visibility and management of IT and cybersecurity operations. Combining cybersecurity and IT solutions within the same offering provides a unified experience, enabling fast threat detection and remediation, as well as smooth operations.

Managed Detection and Response (MDR) / Extended Detection and Response (XDR) is designed to deliver real-time threat containment, remediation and actionable insights — offering response capabilities that go beyond traditional cybersecurity solutions.

Cloud Services that include:

  • Private Cloud for dedicated resources, daily backups and 24/7 monitoring.
  • Public Cloud with expert oversight and support for platforms like Microsoft Azure, AWS and Google Cloud.*

IT Infrastructure Support provides end-to-end support including proactive system monitoring, performance tuning and hardware lifecycle management.

Data Backup and Disaster Recovery which offers protection for critical business data with secure, redundant backups across locations, regular testing and recovery planning to minimize downtime.

Compliance Support through Supra ITS’s ISO 27001 and SOC 2 Type II certifications, which allows business owners to inherit applicable controls and simplify the path to compliance — reducing the time, effort and cost of meeting regulatory demands for their organizations with confidence.**

Learn more about how to successfully protect and support your business now and into the future with Canon U.S.A., Inc. Managed IT Services.

* Subscription to a third-party cloud service required. Subject to third-party cloud service provider’s terms and conditions.

**Canon and SUPRA ITS products offer certain security features, yet many variables can impact the security of your devices and data. We do not warrant that use of its features will prevent security issues. Nothing herein should be construed as legal or regulatory advice concerning applicable laws; customers must have their own qualified counsel determine the feasibility of a solution as it relates to regulatory and statutory compliance. Some security features may impact functionality/performance; you may want to test these settings in your environment.

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Pending proposal to cap student loans could affect growth of healthcare workforce

2026-01-13T08:01:00

(BPT) – With national healthcare workforce shortages continuing to impact patient access to care across the country, groups like the American Academy of Physicians Associates (AAPA) — the national organization that represents physician associates/assistants (PAs) — are actively working to raise awareness of a proposed rule from the Department of Education (ED).

In early November, ED announced its decision to set a definition of a “professional program” that excludes PAs, nurse practitioners, certified registered nurse anesthetists, physical and occupational therapists, audiologists, speech-language pathologists, and others from eligibility for higher federal student loan limits.

If the proposal is finalized, the new loan limit of $25,000 annually would take effect in July 2026.

“Federal student loans are not a luxury for students who are called to caring professions; they are a lifeline,” said AAPA President and Chair of the Board of Directors, Todd Pickard, DMSc, PA-C, DFAAPA, FASCO.

“Twenty-seven years ago, I took out $87,000 in federal loans to become a PA. Without those loans, I would not have become a clinician. I would not have cared for thousands of patients, including those with cancer whose lives depended on timely access to our team.”

Pickard said that since the proposal was announced, AAPA has received nearly 2,000 stories from PAs attesting to how federal loans were essential to their education, as well as aspiring PAs who are expressing fear that even if they are accepted into a PA program — which are highly competitive — they will not be able to pay for it.

“Neither my family nor I have the financial ability to overcome such a burden without the support of federal Grad PLUS loans,” said Jasmine Vasquez, an aspiring PA from Loganville, Georgia. “I have pushed myself, persevered, and overcome adversity to get to this point. Being so close to my goal, it is heartbreaking to imagine my journey ending — not because of lack of determination or ability, but simply because I could not afford to continue.”

In a November 6 ED press release, Under Secretary of Education Nicholas Kent stated the consensus language reached by the negotiators will “help drive a sea change in higher education by holding universities accountable for outcomes and putting significant downward pressure on the cost of tuition.”

However, some leaders in Congress, including Republican U.S. Rep. Mike Lawler (NY-17), have spoken out against this proposal, underscoring that it does not align with Congress’s intention when it passed updates to federal student loans through The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (H.R. 1).

H.R. 1 eliminated the Grad PLUS loan program and established tiered loan limits for graduate programs. A team of negotiators at ED was then charged with defining which programs would be assigned to each tier.

It was during this process that several advanced care clinicians, including PAs, who are educated at the master’s degree level and require a license to practice, were assigned to a loan tier that does not cover the cost of their education.

On December 1, Lawler sent a letter to Education Secretary Linda McMahon encouraging the ED to maintain a broader definition of “professional degrees” consistent with federal law and workforce needs.

“At a time when our healthcare system is strained, and communities desperately need qualified professionals, the Department must make this critical change before finalizing the rule,” Lawler stated in a press release.

Lawler’s next step was introducing the Professional Student Degree Act on December 17, which would amend the Higher Education Act to define “professional degree” and lists the graduate programs which meet the criteria.

“Any degree that fits the specified criteria in the ‘professional degree’ definition should qualify for higher loan limits,” Lawler stated in his release. “For so many essential workers that need advanced degrees and licenses to simply do their job, it will make all the difference.”

Like Lawler and others in Congress who have raised concern, Pickard said AAPA is committed to pursuing every available option to ensure PA programs are recognized as professional degrees and that future PAs can access the education they need to serve their communities.

A Physicians Associate, a member of an organzation like the American Academy of Physicians Associates (AAPA), intaking information about a patient's condition in an exam room.

“If federal student loans are not appropriately available for aspiring PAs, the pipeline of healthcare providers will suffer,” Pickard said.

“People who are going into healthcare should be able to get the financial assistance they need so they can come out the other end and take care of patients. That is the standard we should be working toward.”