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Different styles, same goal — creating a strong foundation for your family

2026-09-23T07:19:00

(BPT) – Parenting today isn’t about following a single, rigid rulebook — it’s about adaptability. As families celebrate National Family Day this fall, modern parents are moving away from the traditional one-size-fits-all parenting methods of the past in favor of fluid strategies tailored to their child’s unique needs and personalities. However, while parenting styles may change, the one thing that remains constant is that families thrive when supported by their chosen village.

Parents are getting creative when it comes to selecting a parenting approach

According to survey data from the Kiddie Academy® brand, a third-generation family-owned provider of educational child care, 7 in 10 parents are choosing parenting styles based on what their child needs, rather than relying on a single method. In fact, nearly 23% of surveyed parents are taking a completely different approach from how they were raised, blending elements that span from “dolphin” to free-range parenting. Today’s moms and dads work collaboratively with their kids and are moving away from traditional expectations of strict obedience or sink-or-swim independence. Ultimately, this modern approach prioritizes the richness of the childhood experience and the holistic well-being of the child, with parents actively taking ownership of that outcome.

Gen Z parents, in particular, are using a mix of styles focused on prioritizing real-world consequences, healing generational trauma and treating each child as a unique individual, according to the research.

Three styles shaping modern homes

“Dolphin parents” seek to provide guidelines rather than strict rules, according to Dr. Shimi Kang’s book, “The Dolphin Way.” The intent is to foster self-sufficiency and social skills without the stress. This parenting style is collaborative and fluid.

Free-range parenting focuses on giving children lots of freedom and white space to problem solve without hovering — it’s the opposite of helicopter parenting and is thought to build self-reliance and independence in children. Furthermore, free-range parenting encourages kids to get outside and explore, which aligns with the “going analog” parenting trend, advocating physical, tactile and offline activities.

“CEO parenting” takes a corporate approach to child rearing by hiring a team of specialists to take over mundane tasks and milestone developmental moments like potty training. A recent Wall Street Journal article sheds light on this niche parenting approach emerging among a subset of wealthy families. They are spending extra on services like nannies, baby chefs and tutors in order to free up time to make “high-impact, core memories.”

Connecting the home approach to early education

Modern parenting styles may adapt and evolve, but families thrive when they have a consistent foundation. Research shows that almost 4 in 5 parents say it’s important that their child’s early education provider use a similar approach to what they do at home.

A quality child care team doesn’t replace a family’s style — it complements it. Whether a home leans into free-range exploration, dolphin-style collaboration, or structured CEO efficiency, providers like Kiddie Academy serve as an extension of the family village by offering a flexible, nurturing environment that reinforces those core values.

Strengthening the family unit

With 54% of full-time working parents struggling to balance job and family responsibilities, according to a Pew Research Center survey, a trusted child care partner helps lift the everyday pressure.

“Balancing a family requires significant time and effort,” said Joy Turner, chief academic officer for Kiddie Academy. “When parents lean on a network of family, friends or reliable high-quality child care, it reduces their stress and creates opportunities to simply enjoy being parents.”

This National Family Day, remember there is no single right way to parent. Whatever approach works for your home, having a trusted partner in your child’s early education gives your family the freedom to focus on what matters most: building strong bonds, making core memories and growing together.

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Caregiving at Home: 4 Everyday Challenges Families Don’t Expect

2026-09-14T08:27:00

(BPT) – More than 41 million Americans are caregivers for aging parents, spouses and other loved ones, and for many, it’s becoming part of everyday life. While many new caregivers anticipate helping with medications, doctors’ appointments and transportation needs, some of the most challenging parts of caregiving are the everyday responsibilities families rarely talk about — and often feel least prepared to manage.

The 3 a.m. bathroom trip. The conversation neither person wants to have. The hygiene routine that suddenly takes up the whole morning. These daily moments can take an emotional and physical toll on both caregivers and the people they care for.

“One of the biggest adjustments that I see families face is realizing that caregiving isn’t just about managing a medical condition; it’s about navigating dozens of everyday moments that can quickly become overwhelming,” says Yolanda Rhodes, MSN, RN, CRRN, Senior Clinical Solutions Manager-Home Care, BD Urology and Critical Care. “The good news is that in my experience, with the right preparation and support, families can feel much more confident caring for their loved ones and may be better equipped to manage some of challenges that come with caregiving.”

Here are four everyday caregiving challenges families may not anticipate, and practical ways to navigate them.

1. The Bathroom Challenge

Helping a loved one with bathroom needs is often one of the most physically demanding and emotionally delicate parts of caregiving. Whether due to urinary incontinence, limited mobility or recovery from surgery or illness, toileting assistance can quickly become a daunting part of the daily routine. Beyond the physical demands, it can also be uncomfortable and embarrassing for the person receiving care.

“Caregivers often worry about saying the wrong thing or making their loved one feel embarrassed,” says Rhodes. “In my experience as a nurse, approaching these moments calmly and matter-of-factly can help preserve dignity and puts everyone more at ease.”

What helps: Keeping essential supplies, like wipes, gloves and a change of clothes, within easy reach. Ensure the path to the bathroom is safe and accessible and consider adding grab bars near the toilet or a toilet seat riser to provide support for the person you’re caring for.

2. The Nighttime Disruptions

From helping a loved one safely in and out of bed to responding to overnight bathroom needs or changing bedding after an accident, nighttime disruptions can leave caregivers exhausted and increase the risk of falls or injury when navigating the dark.

“Nighttime can be one of the most challenging parts of caregiving because everyone is tired and simple tasks become more difficult,” Rhodes says. “Many caregivers find that finding ways to minimize overnight disruptions, whether through consistent bedtime routines or tools that help reduce unnecessary trips out of bed, may help make nighttime care smoother.”

What helps: Keep frequently used items within easy reach and make sure pathways between the bed and bathroom are clear and well-lit. If nighttime urinary incontinence is causing frequent trips out of bed or overnight cleanup, products such as the BD PureWick® Urine Collection System may help. This non-invasive, external urine management option is designed for overnight use and can support more uninterrupted sleep for both caregivers and loved ones. Supporting this benefit, a recent study published in the Journal of Clinical Medicine[1] found that women using the BD PureWick® Urine Collection System reported better sleep and greater overall comfort, highlighting the system’s ease of use and non-invasive design.

3. The Tough Talks

Few caregiving responsibilities are as emotionally difficult as discussing changing care needs with a loved one. Whether it’s accepting help, giving up certain activities or acknowledging that daily tasks have become more difficult, these conversations can be emotional for everyone involved. Rather than trying to address everything in one major discussion, it can help to approach them as a series of smaller conversations over time.

What helps: Try framing each conversation around what your loved one maintains rather than what they’re giving up. Importantly, caregivers don’t necessarily have to navigate these conversations alone. Consider bringing a doctor or nurse in when needs begin to change can provide additional guidance and support during difficult conversations.

4. The Hygiene Hurdles

Daily activities that seem simple, like bathing, dressing and grooming, can often become more complicated than families expect. These routines require close physical assistance while balancing privacy, comfort and a loved one’s desire to remain as independent as possible. Physical limitations, mobility challenges and fatigue can make these routine tasks that once felt automatic take considerably more time and patience.

What helps: Preparing ahead and building in extra time can help make these routines less overwhelming. Gather towels, toiletries and clothing before getting started so everything is within easy reach. Ask your loved one how you can make the process feel most like their own — whether it’s their preferred bathroom temperature, choosing the outfit they had in mind or following the step-by-step skincare routine they’ve always used. Encourage your loved one to do the parts they can safely manage on their own while offering assistance where it’s needed.

Don’t Forget the Caregiver

Family caregivers devote enormous amounts of time and energy to supporting the people they love. Yet many put their own well-being last.

“Caring for someone else starts with caring for yourself,” Rhodes says. “Accept help when it’s offered, lean on your support system and remember that you don’t have to do everything alone. Taking care of yourself can help maintain your well-being while continuing to support a loved one.”

If you’re unsure how to adapt to a loved one’s changing needs, healthcare professionals can help you identify the next steps that best support you both. With the right routines, tools and support, the day-to-day may become more manageable, for both you and your loved one.

Yolanda Rhodes, MSN, RN, CRRN, is a nurse and BD associate. The opinions expressed are based on her professional experience and are not intended as medical advice. Individuals should consult their healthcare provider regarding their specific care needs.

Indications for Use: The PureWick® Urine Collection System is to be used with PureWick® External Catheters which are intended for non-invasive urine output management.

Contraindications for Use: Do not use the PureWick® Urine Collection System with PureWick® External Catheters on individuals with urinary retention.

Safety and Warnings: Always unplug PureWick® Urine Collection System before cleaning or when not in use.


[1] Medina, J. C., Fakih, M., Khalsa, S., Redmond, D., & Kennelly, M. J. (2025). Safety, Efficacy, and Patient-Reported Outcomes of the PureWickTM System Versus Comparator for Nocturnal Urinary Incontinence in the Home Setting: Results of a Randomized Trial. Journal of Clinical Medicine, 14(24), 8699. https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14248699

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As Costs Climb for Small Businesses, Ford Pro Lends a Helping Hand

2026-09-22T12:21:00

(BPT) – Small businesses keep America moving. They build homes, repair essential systems, deliver goods and provide the services communities count on every day. Together they generate roughly 44% of U.S. economic activity. In the Federal Reserve’s latest Small Business Credit Survey, small employers cited rising costs as their most common financial challenge, and only 42% of businesses that sought financing received the full amount they requested. Meanwhile, the Federal Reserve increased interest rates by 0.25 percentage points, bringing its benchmark rate to a range of 3.75% to 4.00% — its first hike since July 2023 — as it works to address inflation that has stayed above its 2% target.

For small businesses already navigating rising costs, this added borrowing expense makes financing options that avoid interest charges an even more meaningful consideration.

For a contractor, electrician, plumber, delivery company or mobile service provider, a van is where the business runs. It carries the crew, the tools and the materials that get from one customer to the next. Ford Pro, the industry leader in commercial vehicles, wants to help.

From September 16 through September 30, qualifying buyers can take advantage of 0% financing for 60 months through Ford Credit on an eligible 2026 Ford Transit van. For businesses looking to add capacity or replace an aging vehicle, financing without interest charges can be a meaningful consideration as operating costs continue to climb.

“Rising costs shouldn’t stand between skilled tradespeople and their ability to grow,” said Alicia Boler Davis, president of Ford Pro. “To keep this essential backbone of our economy thriving, we have to deliver affordable, accessible solutions that ease the burden and help them get ahead.”

The offer arrives as Transit continues to win over businesses. After a record year in 2025, with 161,797 vans sold, Transit recorded 78,925 sales through the first half of 2026, and it remains America’s best-selling van. That momentum reflects a broader lead for Ford Pro, which holds a 40.4% share of the U.S. Class 1 through 7 commercial truck and van segment so far in 2026, keeping Ford the country’s No. 1 commercial vehicle brand.

Much of the appeal of Transit comes down to versatility. Across the full lineup, the 2026 Ford Transit offers 38 model configurations, including cargo van, passenger van, chassis cab and cutaway models, with a range of roof heights, body lengths and wheelbases. That breadth lets businesses from contracting to delivery to passenger transport match the van to the job rather than the other way around. The 0% APR financing offer applies specifically to the eligible 2026 Transit Van Low Roof model.

For 2026, Transit also gets smarter. A built-in 5G modem, an 8-inch digital instrument cluster and standard SYNC 4 with a 12-inch center display keep the vehicle connected, while a standard Vehicle Maintenance Monitor helps owners stay ahead of service.

Behind the vehicle stands Ford Pro, the ecosystem built to keep businesses running. Ford Pro Telematics gives owners a clear view of vehicle location, usage and health, and paid Ford Pro Intelligence subscriptions have surpassed 900,000, up about 20% in the first half of the year. Ford Pro FinSimple offers flexible commercial financing tailored to how a business actually uses its vehicles. And Ford Pro Mobile Service, backed by a nationwide network of more than 700 Commercial Vehicle Centers, helps keep routine maintenance from turning into costly downtime. A work van earns its keep when it is on the road, and these services are built to keep it there.

To learn more and confirm eligibility, visit the Ford Pro Vehicle Offers page or contact your local Ford dealer.

Offer Disclaimer

*Eligible vehicle: 2026 Transit Van Low Roof model. Not all buyers will qualify for Ford Credit APR financing. 60 months at $16.67 per month per $1,000 financed, regardless of down payment. Place a new retail order or take new retail delivery from an authorized Ford Dealer’s stock between 9/16/26 and 9/30/26. See dealer for qualifications and details. U.S. only.

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What today’s PR and MarCom pros need to know about SEO and GEO

2026-09-22T13:01:00

(BPT) – Key takeaways:

  • Today’s PR and MarCom strategies go beyond Search Engine Optimization (SEO) to also focus on Generative Engine Optimization (GEO).
  • GEO no longer aims for ranking and clicks, but to be included and cited in summarized AI responses to user queries.
  • GEO and SEO are not interchangeable, nor are they rivals: Both can be used strategically to achieve optimal brand visibility in 2026.
  • Brandpoint Optimize360™ can enhance your brand’s AI visibility through focused strategy and always-on monitoring that reveals how AI describes your brand, where you stand against competitors and next steps to grow.

As recently as three years ago, Search Engine Optimization (SEO) was king: PR and MarCom professionals used keywords, on-page optimization, technical site health and backlinks to gain higher ranking on search results and the holy grail: clicks.

Fast forward to 2026, and everyone’s talking about Generative Engine Optimization (GEO). Due to the exponential growth of AI searches, today’s consumers are asking longer questions, and AI is responding by summarizing answers instead of providing top clickable links.

A June 2026 study by SparkToro found that 68% of Google searches end without a click. In today’s zero-click world, brands need to strive to show up inside summarized AI responses instead.

What is generative engine optimization (GEO)?

Generative Engine Optimization (GEO) works to increase the likelihood that a brand, product or piece of content gets surfaced, summarized or cited in AI-generated answers.

To help AI crawlers find your content and deem it worth citing in its responses, it’s vital to emphasize:

  • Credibility/authority through reputable third-party links and your content’s presence with recognized publishers
  • Frequency/consistency of messaging across the web over time
  • Recency via up-to-date, timely information
  • Quotability through clear structure and concise writing

What’s the difference between SEO and GEO?

SEO focuses on keywords/short phrases to improve indexing, as well as site speed and usability, backlink building and content structure designed to help brands rank in the top 10 of search results pages to gain clicks.

GEO goes beyond keywords and phrases to consider the consumer’s complete question, along with its context, intent and nuance.

“Traditional SEO ranked a list of links and let the user choose. An AI assistant reads across hundreds of sources, decides what is true and relevant, and synthesizes a single answer in its own words. The goal is no longer to be clicked. It is to be cited; and, more broadly, to be the brand the model has learned to associate with a category,” said Chief Commercial Officer Stacy Stusynski of Brandpoint.

Today, content optimized for keywords doesn’t automatically satisfy an AI prompt, and success is no longer about getting your page to rank. AI visibility depends on how your brand is represented across the web, whether via paid or earned media.

The goal is no longer to be clicked. It is to be cited; and, more broadly, to be the brand the model has learned to associate with a category.

— Stacy Stusynski, Brandpoint

Do you still need to consider both SEO and GEO?

While many people use the terms SEO and GEO interchangeably, they’re not the same — though they are closely related. Simply put, GEO isn’t replacing SEO, and they’re not rivals. They have different goals, not competing ones. SEO and GEO are two layers of the same visibility strategy.

PR and MarCom professionals can still benefit from using both: SEO earns a position on the page, and GEO earns a mention in an AI answer. And in terms of the big picture, GEO and SEO are built on the same foundation of strong technical health and quality content.

Google still dominates where people search, but what happens there is often an AI-generated answer, not just a list of links. That’s exactly the surface GEO is built for. Brands that invest in both SEO and GEO will be the ones that keep showing up, wherever people are looking for answers.

How can PR and MarCom professionals know if their GEO strategy is boosting AI visibility?

You’re using all the strategies recommended, tailoring your content to make it crawlable and citable, and getting frequently placed on reputable sites and publishers — both paid and earned. But how do you know if it’s working?

Enter Brandpoint Optimize360™, which provides a 360-degree view of your brand category, your competitors and your next move. Brandpoint Optimize360™ monitors how AI describes your brand across the most-used large language models (LLMs), shows you where you stand against your competitors and hands you the exact next steps, all in one always-on platform.

Powered by a proprietary persona engine that continuously learns your industry, your brand positioning and your target audiences, Optimize360™ helps PR and MarCom leaders see where they stand in AI, and what actions to take to grow, through:

  • Always-on monitoring providing a continuous read on how AI describes your brand, evaluated across leading LLMs using more than 30,000 prompts per brand every month.
  • 360-degree competitive view revealing how your brand shows up in AI versus competitors in your category, not just your own data in isolation.
  • Direction, not just data through a patent-pending recommendation engine that tells you what to do, when to do it, and which actions will grow your visibility the most, with the help of Brandpoint’s syndication network.

AI assembles its answers from trusted editorial and third-party sources, which makes earned media and authoritative content the real drivers of whether your brand shows up at all. And according to Brandpoint Intelligence data, brands that coordinated sponsored and earned content saw an average 18% lift in AI visibility within three months.

Don’t let confusion around SEO and GEO stop your brand from gaining visibility in today’s zero-click landscape. Learn more about how your brand can maximize the moment at Brandpoint.com.

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Pediatric oncology nurse answers some of the most pressing questions about high-risk neuroblastoma

2026-09-22T16:11:00

(BPT) – September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness of pediatric cancers and recognize the children and families affected by these diseases.

According to Children’s Cancer Cause, approximately 15,000 children and adolescents are diagnosed with cancer each year in the U.S. There are more than 13 major types of pediatric cancers and more than 200 subtypes. One rare but incredibly challenging type of childhood cancer is high-risk neuroblastoma.

“Neuroblastoma is a cancer that develops from immature nerve cells and most commonly affects infants and young children,” said Michele Ritter, a pediatric oncology nurse practitioner who worked closely with patients for over 30 years and now serves as a Clinical Nurse Educator at US WorldMeds. “While some forms can be treated successfully, children with high-risk neuroblastoma face a particularly difficult journey.”

To help shine a light on high-risk neuroblastoma, highlight the importance of maintenance treatment and celebrate the role of caregivers, Ritter has answered some of the most common questions about high-risk neuroblastoma.

Why is high-risk neuroblastoma considered one of the most challenging childhood cancers?

The disease is aggressive and carries a significant risk of relapse, even after intensive treatment. Advances in treatment have improved outcomes, but preventing relapse remains one of the biggest challenges for families and healthcare providers.

Many people assume treatment ends when a child is declared cancer-free. Why is the period after remission still so important?

Achieving remission is a major milestone worth celebrating. However, it doesn’t always mean the journey is over. Even when scans show no evidence of disease, cancer recurrence is still a concern. That’s why physicians continue to monitor patients closely and may recommend additional strategies designed to help maintain remission and reduce the risk of relapse.

What is maintenance therapy?

After a patient has completed up-front therapy and achieved remission, they may be given maintenance therapy to help sustain the response already achieved and reduce the risk of the disease returning.

What do families need to know about the risk of relapse in high-risk neuroblastoma?

Relapse remains one of the biggest concerns in high-risk neuroblastoma. Even if children complete aggressive up-front therapy, about one-third of patients will experience relapse. That’s why physicians remain focused on helping children achieve remission and implementing strategies that may help sustain it over time.

Childhood Cancer Awareness Month shines a spotlight on patients, but what about caregivers?

Caregivers are truly unsung heroes and play a vital role throughout every stage of the cancer journey. Parents and family members often spend months or even years navigating appointments, treatments, hospital stays and emotional challenges while advocating for their children every step of the way. Childhood Cancer Awareness Month is an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the resilience, dedication and essential role caregivers play in supporting children through treatment and recovery.

What message would you like families affected by high-risk neuroblastoma to hear this Childhood Cancer Awareness Month?

Families should know there’s a real reason for hope, as advances in research and treatment continue to improve. They should also know they’re not alone. There are multiple advocacy groups that can provide support and resources, and the medical community remains deeply committed to improving treatments, reducing the risk of relapse, and helping more children thrive long after cancer treatment ends.

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How to choose a technology platform that can grow with your business needs

2026-09-22T07:45:00

(BPT) – Companies of all sizes need a technology provider that can meet all their organization’s needs, streamlining everything from warehouse and transportation management to store operations and order management, all on a single, unified platform.

Growing organizations often face a tough choice: adopt a platform that’s easy to implement today but may not support future complexity or wait until they’re large enough and then move to a new platform. But now there’s another option: choose the platform and solutions that are appropriately sized for the organization’s current needs and can scale without limiting future growth.

Today, Manhattan Associates, the global leader in supply chain commerce with unmatched AI capabilities, has announced the commercial launch of Editions for Manhattan Active® solutions to help enterprises find the right solutions that best fit their needs, wherever they are in their growth journey.

Already well known for its innovative AI-enabled, cloud-based supply chain and commerce solutions, Editions provide a new way for companies of all sizes and across industries to partner with Manhattan. They are designed to help growing organizations make a durable, long-term technology decision from the start. As complexity increases, customers can unlock additional capabilities on the same platform, rather than starting over.

“One of the most important decisions a growing organization can make is choosing the right technology partner for commerce and supply chain,” said Brian Kinsella, Chief Product Officer at Manhattan Associates. “Each step of their growth journey requires operational excellence in selling and fulfillment, given the direct impact they have on customer experience.”

How businesses can scale as their needs evolve without needing to replatform

The three editions, Essentials, Enterprise and Enterprise Premier, provide a right-sized path for companies to begin working with Manhattan and scale on the same platform as their business grows. This gives organizations of all sizes access to the capabilities they need at their current stage, while providing a path to additional capabilities as their complexity increases without disruptions, downtime or high implementation and replatforming costs.

“With Editions, businesses can start with Essentials and move to Enterprise or Enterprise Premier as their needs evolve, without migrating to a new system, reimplementing processes or retraining teams,” added Kinsella. “Now, they simply unlock more of the same platform, gaining the capability they need when they need it, without disruption. Editions are a path to scale that protects the value of every technology decision along the way.”

Built for ActiveWarehouse™, ActiveTransportation™, ActiveStore™ and ActiveOrder™, on Manhattan’s award-winning ActivePlatform™, the three Editions allow organizations to:

  • Start with capabilities that matter most to them today.
  • Choose the edition that suits their complexity today with an option to scale as needed, without taking on enterprise-scale infrastructure or IT overhead.
  • Access AI-assisted configuration, deployment automation and guided configuration wizards.
  • Avoid migrating to a new system or starting over as their operations become more complex.
  • Continue receiving platform innovation and quarterly updates.
  • Operate on a cloud-native platform with zero infrastructure to manage.

It is important to note that Editions are not separate or simplified products. They’re a new way to access the capabilities that companies need at the stage they’re currently in, with the expertise required to scale, compete and grow over time.

Regardless of the specific Edition selected for each solution, companies gain access to the power of Manhattan’s unified platform, AI capabilities and continuous innovation underpinning some of world’s most complex supply chain and commerce operations.

How to take the next step

Organizations shouldn’t have to constantly worry about analyzing the right technology partner at every stage of growth. Instead, businesses can make one durable long-term technology decision, and move from strategy to value faster through Editions.

Editions provides a new way for companies of all sizes and across industries to partner with Manhattan. Companies can now truly unify their operations by combining different Editions as needed, or by adding solution families over time on a unified platform as their business needs evolve.

Ultimately, the platform you start with should be the platform you grow with. Learn more at Manh.com/editions.

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4 appliance features that pull double duty, so you don’t have to

2026-09-21T09:07:00

(BPT) – Key takeaways:

Today’s home cooks aren’t satisfied with kitchen appliances that just cook food. They’re looking for smart appliances with intuitive features that save time, reduce cleanup and make everyday meal prep inherently more efficient.

This desire is part of a broader shift in how Americans are using their kitchens. According to the National Kitchen & Bath Association’s 2026 Kitchen Trends Report, 100% of surveyed industry professionals agree that lifestyle-enhancing features will be popular over the next three years, as kitchens become more personalized, multipurpose hubs.

Smart tech-enhanced appliances like Samsung’s Bespoke kitchen appliances now pull double duty, simplifying everyday cooking with smart innovations that make your daily routine easier. Here are four important features to look for in smart kitchen appliances:

1. DualVent Technology that whisks away cooking fumes

Great meals can leave behind more than leftovers. Smoke, steam, grease and cooking odors can linger well after the plates are cleared. And with urban living, evolving work-from-home habits and growing health awareness influencing how people use their homes, there has been an uptick in demand for kitchen appliances that keep indoor air cleaner. To maintain healthier, fresher living spaces, more and more people are actively seeking ventilation and cooking technologies that minimize fumes.

Traditional over-the-range microwaves can vent some of the smoke and vapor from your kitchen, but you may still find that they stick around, along with stubborn cooking smells. To tackle smoke, steam and odors during and after cooking, look for a microwave that works twice as hard with dual vents. Samsung’s new Bespoke Over-the-Range Microwave with DualVent Technology combines a powerful front-burner vent — where most cooking happens — with standard bottom vents for a fresher, more comfortable kitchen.

The dual-vent system pulls smoke and steam away from the front and back burners simultaneously, which is especially useful during high-heat cooking and large-meal prep when you have multiple pots and pans heating at once. Compared to conventional over-the-range microwave models without DualVent, Samsung’s Bespoke model captures up to three times more cooking smoke.

Best of all? There’s no need for manual adjustment. The powered vent cover automatically opens when ventilation is activated and closes when turned off for added convenience.

2. Intelligent sensors that simplify cooking and perfect every dish

Getting the timing just right in the microwave can be tricky. Every dish heats differently, which means preset cooking times don’t always deliver the best results. Thankfully, Samsung’s Bespoke Over-the-Range Microwave with DualVent Technology eliminates the guesswork.

Samsung NSE90H63S Electric Range with over the counter micro-wave in a modern style kitchen.

Instead of stopping, adjusting and restarting the microwave, the model’s Sensor Cook detects the moisture released by your food and adjusts the cooking time and power level accordingly. And thanks to the microwave’s 2.1-cubic-foot capacity, you can cook large dishes and family-sized meals with ease.

Smart tech-enhanced appliances like Samsung’s Bespoke kitchen appliances now pull double duty, simplifying everyday cooking with smart innovations that make your daily routine easier.

3. Flex Duo™ ovens that can divide and conquer

If you live in a busy household or are a frequent entertainer, you know that multitasking in the kitchen is essential for a successful meal. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or an elaborate holiday feast, you can save time and effortlessly cook two dishes at once — even if the recipe calls for different temperatures — with Samsung’s new Bespoke Smart Slide-In Range with Flex Duo™ Oven and Dual True Convection.

The Samsung Bespoke Over-the-Range Microwave with DualVent Technology NSE90H63S Electric Range in the kitchen.

The spacious oven comes with a removable divider, allowing you to seamlessly split it into two independent cooking zones with separate temperature controls. Available in both gas and electric models, this flexible dual-by-design oven maximizes oven space and streamlines meal timing, so you never have to compromise between roasting savory vegetables or baking a sweet dessert.

Pro tip: Want to speed up meal prep? The Flex Duo Oven features a no-Preheat Air Fry Max mode. It’s the ultimate shortcut for serving wholesome, crispy family meals on a tight weeknight schedule.

4. Auto Connectivity that keeps your kitchen in sync

Smart connectivity has become a must-have in modern kitchens, as consumers increasingly expect their appliances to work together as part of a connected home, rather than as standalone products. Demand for smart home integration is being fueled by features like smartphone connectivity, voice control, remote monitoring, personalized automation and energy management and optimization that make everyday cooking more convenient. That’s why Samsung’s Over-the-Range Microwave with DualVent Technology and Flex Duo Oven are part of the brand’s intelligent SmartThings ecosystem.

Using the Auto Connectivity feature, the microwave can pair directly with the oven range, automatically activating the hood fan and lighting the moment the cooktop turns on. You can also use the SmartThings app to control the microwave remotely, explore personalized recipes and monitor energy usage right from your smartphone for a streamlined, stress-free experience.

Your kitchen appliances should work just as hard as you do. When they pull double duty, they make everyday cooking easier, no matter your skills or schedule.

Samsung’s Bespoke Over-the-Range Microwave with DualVent Technology and Bespoke Smart Slide-In Range with Flex Duo™ Oven and Dual True Convection are available to purchase now. To learn more about the Bespoke line and shop for smart kitchen appliance bundles, visit Samsung.com.

All photos courtesy of Samsung

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Fido having tummy troubles? What to do when a pet has diarrhea

2026-09-21T14:31:00

(BPT) – Key takeaways:

  • Occasional diarrhea is a common complaint in dogs and cats, and pet parents may not always know what to do about it.
  • Diarrhea can have many causes, including stress or sudden change in diet.
  • Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Supplements has created a non-prescription kit to help pet parents manage their pets’ occasional diarrhea and long-term gut health.
  • Call your vet if symptoms continue, worsen, or your pet experiences vomiting or changes in appetite or energy.

When a pet has diarrhea, pet parents may not know what to do, or when it’s time to call their veterinarian. Diarrhea is one of the most common reasons pets feel under the weather, and it’s not always obvious what will actually help.

In honor of the 2026 National Cat & Dog Gut Health Awareness Day on September 21, Purina Veterinary Nutritionist Martha Cline, DVM, DACVIM, explains how pet parents can ease their pet’s tummy troubles, and keep their gut healthy so it’s less likely to happen again.

How you can help your pet feel better

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

One or more of these strategies can help ease your pet’s tummy troubles:

1. Keep their environment calm

Has life at home been chaotic? Help your pet relax and reset. For cats, that could mean a place to escape the hustle and bustle, like a cozy hideaway or special box. Dogs tend to do best when sticking closely to their routine. Providing extra one-on-one attention and a chew toy can also help dogs burn off nervous energy.

2. Introduce new foods more gradually

“If you’ve recently introduced a new food, it might not be sitting well with your cat or dog, especially if they have a sensitive stomach,” 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. Consult your vet before making any dietary changes.

3. Consider a supplement created just for pets

To give your dog or cat 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 veterinary nutritionists who have 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*, with 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 the stress out of it,” said Dr. Cline. “Keeping the FortiFlora Diarrhea Response Kit on hand means you’ll be ready whenever it strikes.”

Diarrhea can be difficult for pets and pet parents, but having a plan takes a lot of the stress out of it.

Watch for these important signs

Make sure to note how long your pet’s diarrhea lasts, and any other symptoms you see. 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.

How to prepare for your vet visit

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

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

Continue supporting your pet’s long-term gut health

A single episode of diarrhea can be handled in the moment, but the goal is to help your pet avoid another round in the future. That’s where the FortiFlora sachets come in: Daily use helps keep your pet’s digestive and immune systems on track. The sachets 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.

With a plan already in place, pet parents can skip the stress and get straight to helping their pet feel better as soon as possible.

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

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10 ways Gulf Coast and Florida households can prepare for late-season hurricanes

2026-09-18T12:27:00

(BPT) – Just because the Atlantic has been quiet doesn’t mean that hurricane season, or the risk of losing power, is over. In fact, late-season storms have produced some of the region’s most damaging hurricanes on record, and with them, some of the longest home power outages households have faced.

Just two years ago, Hurricane Helene, a Category 4 storm, made landfall in Florida’s Big Bend region in late September and became the deadliest hurricane to hit the U.S. mainland since Hurricane Katrina. Nearly two weeks later, Hurricane Milton, a Category 3 hurricane, made landfall near Siesta Key, Florida, and became the most intense hurricane of the 2024 season.

Don’t let a quiet fall catch you off guard. Use these 10 steps to help you prepare your household for the rest of hurricane season, power outages and beyond.

1. Know your evacuation zone before you need it

Are you in a hurricane evacuation zone? If you don’t know, take a quick look at your county’s zone map. If you’re in an evacuation zone, plan where you’ll need to go and how to get there should a hurricane land. A little preparation now can remove the guesswork later when every moment counts.

2. Keep essentials running without a gas generator

Gas generators require you to keep gas cans on hand, and if you run out during an evacuation or extended outage, it won’t be easy, and sometimes impossible, to get more. Plus, gas generators are noisy, produce fumes and put you at risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Home battery backup systems and portable power stations, on the other hand, are ideal power sources that run quietly, produce no fumes or carbon monoxide risk, and require no fuel or refueling.

During an outage, two things matter most: keeping food safe and staying connected. A Jackery portable power station for a refrigerator can run for hours to days depending on capacity, protecting groceries and medication from spoiling while the grid is down. The same unit can keep a WiFi router and modem powered, too, so your household can keep receiving emergency alerts, checking storm updates and staying in touch with family even if cell service gets spotty.

Home solar generators like Jackery’s Explorer 5000 Plus and HomePower 3600 Plus simply need to be charged in advance, which can be done in a variety of ways, including through portable solar panels or a traditional wall outlet. Both models can also connect directly to home circuits via a Smart Transfer Switch for the former and a Manual Transfer Switch for the latter, providing essential home backup for essentials across multiple rooms: from the fridge and WiFi to lighting and other essential devices.

3. Build a two-week pantry, not a two-day one

Grid power and road access can take time to restore after late-season storms, limiting your ability to purchase necessities. Take stock of your pantry now, make a list of items you’re missing and store enough to last you for two weeks. Some supplies you should consider stocking include:

  • Shelf-stable food items
  • Water
  • Pet food
  • Diapers
  • Baby formula

4. Protect the paperwork that’s hardest to replace

Insurance policies, IDs and property documents are difficult to replace if lost or damaged. Store these documents in a waterproof folder and scan and store them in the cloud, so you can rest easy knowing you’ll always have access to them.

5. Download what you’ll need offline

Your phone won’t help you if you can’t connect to a network. In case service drops, download important information that you’ll need during an evacuation. This can include maps, contact numbers and local alerts.

6. Fill the tank early

Once a storm is confirmed, people will be rushing to the pumps to fill up their tanks. Instead of waiting for the lines to get long, fill your gas tank early. Remember, a half tank two days out beats an empty one the night before.

7. Charge your portable power station while it’s calm

A portable power station like the HomePower 1000 Plus V2 is incredibly useful if your household is under an evacuation order, but only if it’s fully charged. Don’t wait until a storm watch is issued to top it up. Instead, get into the habit of charging your home battery backup year-round, so you’ll always be ready if a hurricane or anything that causes an unexpected home power outage is on the horizon.

8. Bring the outdoors in

Patio furniture, planters and other outdoor items can become dangerous projectiles in high wind conditions. If a hurricane is in the forecast, make sure to store large items like patio furniture and planters in the garage, and smaller items inside your home.

9. Check in with neighbors

During a storm, it’s important to protect each other, including your neighbors. A quick text to someone nearby, especially anyone living alone, costs nothing and matters most in the first hours after a storm passes.

10. Prepare once a season, not once a decade

Review this checklist each fall to stay prepared for late-season hurricanes and the home power outages that often follow. A five-minute refresher will help your household remember these important tips and can help you keep your home battery backup plan current as your household needs change.

Late-season hurricanes can escalate quickly, but preparation now, with a reliable portable power station or solar generator on hand, can help your household respond to an outage with greater confidence. To learn more about hurricane preparedness and home battery backup systems, visit Jackery.com.

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Take simple steps to prevent falls

2026-09-18T13:29:00

(BPT) – Falls are a common cause of injury throughout life, but as you age, they become both more common and more serious. About 1 in 4 older adults reports falling each year, and falls are a leading cause of injuries for people 65 and over.

The good news? Many falls can be prevented. From staying active to making your home safer, a few simple steps can reduce your risk.

Stay active. Regular physical activity builds strength, balance, flexibility and mobility, which can reduce your risk of falling. Walking, gardening, dancing, swimming and strength training are just a few ways to keep moving. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week for optimal health benefits, but every step counts!

Talk with your healthcare provider. Some conditions increase your risk of falling. Ask about your personal risk factors and steps you can take to reduce them during your annual Medicare Wellness checkup.

Review your medications. Some prescriptions and over-the-counter medicines can cause dizziness, drowsiness or other side effects. Talk to a provider or pharmacist about your falls risk and read the label on your medicine to learn about precautions and potential side effects.

Stay hydrated. Drink fluids regularly throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Not drinking enough can cause dizziness, weakness and confusion, increasing your risk of falling. Women should aim for about nine cups per day and men about 13 cups, according to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

Take care of your vision. Seeing clearly helps you avoid obstacles and navigate your surroundings safely. Nightlights and motion detector lights can help light the way indoors and out. Get your vision checked regularly and keep your prescriptions up to date.

Make your home safer. Look for things that could cause you to trip or lose your balance. Keep walkways clear, improve lighting, secure or remove loose rugs, and install grab bars where you need extra support. A rubber tub mat, ideally with suction cups that create a firm seal against the floor, can help keep slippery feet on the ground.

Find a local program. Falls prevention classes and programs can help improve strength, balance and mobility while teaching you practical tips to reduce your risk of falling.

You don’t have to do everything at once. Start with one or two steps that make sense for you and build from there.

Visit the Eldercare Locator, a public service of the Administration for Community Living, to help you find falls prevention programs and other services in your area or call 800-677-1116.