Buchanan Capital Partners and Vault Partners Close Joint Venture for Wildcat Distribution Center in Southwest Houston

AUSTIN, Texas, Oct. 7, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Buchanan Capital Partners ("BCP"), an Austin-based, zero-fee commercial real estate investment firm, announced the capitalization and closing of Wildcat Distribution Center, a 321,120 square foot, Class A cross-dock industrial development in Southwest Houston. The project will be developed by Houston-based Vault Partners ("Vault") and marks BCP's first joint venture with the firm. This is BCP's second industrial investment in Houston this year, following North Airport Logistics Center – a 476,000 SF cross-dock in North Houston.

Located at 222 Holmes Road in one of Houston's most active industrial corridors, Wildcat is inside Beltway 8, with access to US-90 and State Highway 288 and roughly 15 minutes from Downtown Houston, the Texas Medical Center, and Hobby Airport. The Southwest Houston / Inner Loop South submarket is among Houston's tightest, with vacancy near 3.6% versus a metro average of roughly 6.3%.

At 321,120 square feet, Wildcat targets a size segment of the tenant market in high demand. Many of the submarket's comparably sized projects have already been leased or sold to users. This heightened demand has largely been driven by advanced manufacturing uses.

In addition to the building size and location, a key differentiator for the project is its power capacity. With 10,000 amps, Wildcat will be one of the market's highest-powered speculative projects in greater Houston, positioning the project for advanced manufacturing uses. A subset of this tenant category is the rapidly growing data center-adjacent user: industry data shows this subset has more than quadrupled their share of logistics leasing in Houston since 2022.

Drawing on its local Houston presence, Vault will oversee development and construction, alongside the general contractor, FCL Builders. Goree Architects is the project architect, Kimley-Horn is the civil engineer, and BancFirst is providing the construction financing. Michael Foreman with Cushman & Wakefield will lead leasing efforts. Link to the leasing flyer can be found here: Wildcat Distribution Center.

"The BCP team understood what we were building from the first conversation. They're an aligned, performance-based partner who moves quickly and sees the same value in this site that we do," said TJ Cholnoky, Managing Director at Vault Partners. "Wildcat brings together features that are hard to find inside the Beltway: size, access and real power. We see a lot of demand from advanced manufacturing and data center-adjacent users. With a strong design, engineering and capital team behind us, we're ready to deliver a building that meets that demand."

"Wildcat reflects exactly what we look for in a joint venture: a best-in-class local developer, an attractive cost basis driven by a below market land price, and a building that offers something the market can't easily replicate," said Keith Buchanan, Founder of BCP. "Demand for high-power industrial space continues to grow, and Wildcat is able to serve that demand in one of Houston's most supply-constrained infill locations."

The joint venture further expands BCP's industrial footprint across the Southeast with over 2M SF and reinforces the firm's reputation as a leader in strategic, growth-oriented real estate investments that prioritize value creation and investor trust.

About Buchanan Capital Partners

Buchanan Capital Partners, based in Austin, Texas, is a performance-based commercial real estate investment firm focused on delivering consistent, superior risk-adjusted returns. BCP charges no fees, and its investors are paid in full before the firm receives compensation. BCP pursues low cost-basis strategies including direct acquisitions across product types and providing joint venture equity for de-risked opportunistic investments. BCP's Principal has a proven 30+ year track record of successful investing across all commercial real estate product types, primarily in major Texas metros.

For more information about Buchanan Capital Partners, please visit www.buchanancp.com.

About Vault Partners

Vault Partners is a Houston-based industrial development firm that sources, develops, and operates Class A industrial product nationally, with a specific focus on Texas markets. Vault brings deep relationships across Houston's construction, brokerage, and tenant communities and partners with best-in-class general contractors and leasing teams. For more information, please visit www.vaultpartners.com.

Contact:

Gentry Bowen

[email protected]

512-673-7375

SOURCE Buchanan Capital Partners

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GREENVILLE, S.C., Oct. 7, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Pacolet Milliken, LLC ("Pacolet"), a sustainability-focused, family-owned investment firm, announced today it has acquired 100% of Georgia Renewable Power ("GRP"), which owns two biomass power plants in northeast Georgia, one in Franklin County and one in Madison County (the "Plants"). This acquisition roughly triples the size of Pacolet's biomass platform. Financing was provided by Manulife. The terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

The Plants have 116 MW of combined generating capacity and sell their output to Georgia Power under long-term power purchase agreements. The Plants are fueled by woody biomass, qualify as a source of renewable power under federal and state standards, and sell renewable energy credits on the open market. Pacolet entered the biomass sector in 2024 with its acquisition of Piedmont Green Power ("PGP"), a 55 MW biomass plant in Barnesville, Georgia.

"This transaction represents a significant next step in growing Pacolet's Power & Infrastructure portfolio and meets both our financial and sustainability goals. Franklin and Madison are modern, efficient facilities that complement PGP well," said William Crawford, CEO of Pacolet. "We look forward to working with our partners and regulatory authorities to continue the plants' success, as well as ensuring the Plants have a positive impact on their respective communities. We are committed to operating the plants at the same high standards of safety, environmental stewardship and operating efficiency that we do with every asset in our portfolio."

Lance Jordan, Co-Head and Chief Investment Officer of Pacolet Power & Infrastructure, commented, "GRP is a natural fit alongside PGP. Operating three facilities in the same state creates meaningful operational synergies. Going forward, we continue to see compelling opportunities to acquire high-quality assets that meet our sustainability and financial goals. We remain focused on pursuing additional renewables investments throughout the U.S."

Pointing to the continuity of the financing partnership, Mr. Jordan added, "We are especially pleased to expand our relationship with Manulife, which also financed our PGP acquisition. This transaction reflects the long-term partnership both companies envisioned when we first worked together."

"We appreciate the opportunity to once again work alongside the Pacolet team on another successful acquisition. The expansion of their biomass platform in Georgia is a meaningful milestone for the business, and we are pleased to provide financing that supports their long-term growth objectives," said Nicholas Violandi, Managing Director, Power & Infrastructure Project Finance, Manulife.

Vinson & Elkins served as legal advisor, and Genesis Capital acted as debt financing arranger for Pacolet on the transaction. Day Pitney served as counsel to Manulife on the transaction.

About PACOLET MILLIKEN

Headquartered in Greenville, SC, Pacolet is a family-owned investment firm that owns and manages a diverse set of power & infrastructure and real estate assets located across the United States. Pacolet's Power & Infrastructure assets include a regulated electric utility (Lockhart Power), an industrial utilities company (Bushy Park) and a substantial solar, wind, biomass, and landfill gas portfolio. Pacolet's Real Estate division has a national portfolio of industrial, multi-family, office, and self-storage properties. In both divisions, Pacolet seeks to positively impact the communities in which it operates and be a good steward of the environment.

https://www.pacoletmilliken.com

About Manulife

Manulife Financial Corporation is a leading international financial services provider, headquartered in Toronto, Canada. Anchored in our ambition to be the number one choice for customers, we operate as Manulife across Canada and Asia, and primarily as John Hancock in the United States, providing financial advice, insurance and health solutions for individuals, groups and businesses. Through Manulife Wealth & Asset Management, we offer global investment solutions, financial advice, and retirement plan services to individuals, institutions, and retirement plan members worldwide. At the end of 2025, we had more than 37,000 employees, over 106,000 agents, and thousands of distribution partners, serving over 37 million customers with operations across 25 markets globally. We trade as 'MFC' on the Toronto, New York, and Philippine stock exchanges, and under '945' on the Hong Kong stock exchange. Not all offerings are available in all jurisdictions. For additional information, please visit manulife.com.

SOURCE Pacolet Milliken LLC

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RESTON, Va., Oct. 7, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- General Dynamics (NYSE:GD) announced today that its board of directors has elected Danny Deep, who currently serves as president of the company, to be CEO, effective January 1, 2027. Deep will succeed Phebe Novakovic, who will transition to executive chairman after serving as CEO since 2013.

"Danny is a highly skilled executive with rich operating experience. It has been a pleasure working closely with him and I am certain he will be an outstanding CEO," said Novakovic. "I very much look forward to our continuing collaboration."

"On behalf of the board, we thank Phebe for her outstanding leadership and lasting contributions to General Dynamics," said Laura J. Schumacher, independent lead director. "Phebe has led with vision, integrity and a deep commitment to our people and our Ethos. We have greatly benefitted from her efforts in setting a clear strategic vision, creating enduring value and in building a strong and capable leadership team."

"We look forward to her continuing role with the company and to working together with Danny," said Schumacher. "We have every confidence that he will continue the outstanding leadership and legacy that Phebe has exemplified."

"Phebe has been an extraordinary leader for General Dynamics, and I am grateful for the close partnership we've shared and the opportunity to continue working together in the future," said Deep. "I am profoundly honored to be selected as the next CEO of General Dynamics and humbled and deeply thankful for the board's confidence."

Deep has been with the company for 25 years, serving in positions of increasing responsibility. Before becoming president of the company in 2025, he served as executive vice president of Global Operations, executive vice president of Combat Systems, and president of Land Systems.

Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, General Dynamics is a global aerospace and defense company that offers a broad portfolio of products and services in business aviation; ship construction and repair; land combat vehicles, weapon systems and munitions; and technology products and services. General Dynamics employs more than 120,000 people worldwide and generated $52.6 billion in revenue in 2025. More information is available at www.gd.com.

SOURCE General Dynamics

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BAR LEONE, HONG KONG, IS THE WORLD'S BEST BAR AS THE LIST OF THE 50 BEST BARS 2026 IS REVEALED

- Bar Leone, Hong Kong is named The World's Best Bar, sponsored by Perrier, and The Best Bar in Asia

- Shingo Gokan is awarded the Roku Industry Icon Award

- Melbourne's Three Horses receives the Campari One to Watch Award

- The Ketel One Sustainable Bar Award goes to Line, Athens

- Bar Mauro in Mexico City takes the Disaronno Highest New Entry Award, entering at No.10

- Athens' The Bar in Front of the Bar secures the Nikka Highest Climber Award, rising 28 places to No.19

- Paradiso, Barcelona is named Rémy Martin Legend of the List

- Schmuck, New York, claims the Three Cents Best New Opening Award

- Isa Mejia from Ecuador receives The 50 Best Bars Scholarship

- Siete Misterios Best Cocktail Menu Award is given to Edinburgh's Panda & Sons

- The SevenRooms Best Bar Design Award goes to Saikindō, Abu Dhabi

- Takuma Watanabe was named Altos Bartenders' Bartender and Alquímico, Cartagena, received the Michter's Art of Hospitality Award

MILAN, Oct. 7, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The annual list of The 50 Best Bars, sponsored by Perrier, was unveiled this evening in Milan, Italy. The 18th edition once again united the global bar community in recognition of those at the forefront of the international cocktail scene.

For the full 1-50 list, click here

Co-founded by Lorenzo Antinori, Bar Leone draws inspiration from the traditional bars of Rome's Trastevere district. Rather than chasing trends or theatrical techniques, the bar's philosophy of Cocktail Popolari -"cocktails for the people" - focuses on straightforward hospitality and impeccable drinks while the design combines vintage Italian references with a welcoming neighbourhood atmosphere.

The 2026 list features bars from 26 cities with 14 new entries. Other bars in the top five are Milan's Moebius Milano (No.2), Cartagena's Alquimíco (No.3), Bangkok's Bar Us (No.4) and Athens' Line (No.5).

Faye Huggett, Director of Community for The 50 Best Bars, says: "It is with immense pride that we once again announce Bar Leone as The World's Best Bar, sponsored by Perrier. To be the first No.1 from Asia was already an outstanding achievement but to retain the title for a second year shows the true impact of Cocktail Popolari. Beyond the No.1, this year's rankings are a powerful reflection of the extraordinary talent, dedication and hospitality that continue to elevate bar culture around the world."

Media centre:

mediacentre.the50.com 

SOURCE The 50

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TAMPA, Fla., Oct. 7, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Command Control Communications Engineering & Logistics, LLC (C3EL) closed Government Fiscal Year 2026 with a string of strategic prime contract awards that expanded the company's work across cybersecurity, secure communications, enterprise IT, and mission systems integration. Earlier in FY26, C3EL secured a new U.S. Air Force cybersecurity prime contract, followed by three additional prime awards in September from the U.S. Coast Guard, Federal Communications Commission, and Department of the Interior. The company further strengthened its federal market position through dual NASA SEWP VI awards and a Missile Defense Agency (MDA) SHIELD award, while achieving full CMMC Level 2 certification following a successful C3PAO assessment.

C3EL began performance in March as the prime contractor for the U.S. Air Force 55th Strategic Communications Squadron's Defense Red Switch Network (DRSN) Cybersecurity Support Services requirement at Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska (Contract No. FA460026P0017). C3EL provides Cybersecurity and Information Systems Security subject matter experts supporting DRSN and other NC3 systems. Responsibilities include Risk Management Framework activities, Authorization to Operate sustainment, security documentation, configuration management reviews, and cybersecurity audits and inspections. The work supports secure communications serving national-level command authorities, combatant commands, military services, other federal agencies, and U.S. allies, demonstrating C3EL's ability to protect and sustain critical national security systems.

In September, C3EL was awarded the U.S. Coast Guard Enterprise Video Conferencing Support Services BPA (Contract No. 70Z07926AUCPL0001) by the Coast Guard Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Cyber and Intelligence Service Center (C5ISC). The five-year, single-award BPA has an estimated value of $8.39 million and covers AV and video conferencing design, integration, installation, technical support, testing, training, and technology refresh across Coast Guard locations. Its scope also includes configuration and inventory management, maintenance and casualty support, and engineering services for classified and unclassified environments. The award expands C3EL's role in sustaining secure collaboration systems across the Coast Guard's distributed enterprise.

C3EL also received the Federal Communications Commission's Conference Room Audio/Visual (AV) Video Teleconference (VTC) Upgrade prime award (Contract No. 273FCC26F0110), valued at $2.29 million. The project will modernize AV/VTC capabilities at FCC Headquarters in Washington, D.C., including conference rooms, specialized collaboration spaces, the Commission Meeting Room, and the mission-critical Operations Center. Work encompasses design, equipment procurement, installation, integration, and modernization of legacy infrastructure. The refresh will replace end-of-life and end-of-support technology while preserving usable infrastructure and improving interoperability, reliability, manageability, and the user experience.

C3EL's third September prime award was the Udall Audio Visual Modernization BPA (Contract No. 140D0426A0020) for the U.S. Department of the Interior's Office of Facilities and Administrative Services (OFAS). The five-year BPA has an estimated value of $1.4 million and provides a vehicle for turnkey AV design, engineering, installation, modernization, and support throughout the Stewart Lee Udall Building in Washington, D.C. Requirements can include new deployments, technology upgrades, AV-over-IP and networked AV architectures, programming, testing, documentation, training, and modern conferencing technologies. The award establishes a new customer relationship with DOI while supporting continued modernization of the Udall Building and expanding C3EL's federal civilian mission systems integration portfolio.

C3EL also expanded its federal acquisition portfolio during FY26 with NASA Solutions for Enterprise-Wide Procurement VI (SEWP VI) awards in Categories A and C and a prime award on the Missile Defense Agency's Scalable Homeland Innovative Enterprise Layered Defense (SHIELD) multiple-award IDIQ. Together, these vehicles provide C3EL with new pathways to provide our technology, engineering, integration, cybersecurity, and mission-support capabilities to across defense and civilian agencies.

FY26 also marked a cybersecurity maturity milestone as C3EL successfully completed its C3PAO assessment and achieved Final CMMC Level 2 certification. This achievement strengthens the company's ability to protect Controlled Unclassified Information and support Department of Defense cybersecurity and supply-chain requirements. Together with C3EL's cleared infrastructure and quality management systems, the certification reinforces the operational foundation supporting its growing cybersecurity, IT, and integration business.

"FY26 demonstrated the depth and breadth of what C3EL can deliver for our federal customers. Our Air Force cybersecurity work and new Coast Guard, FCC, and DOI prime awards expand our customer base and demonstrate our ability to execute across cybersecurity, secure communications, and mission systems integration. At the same time, SEWP VI and SHIELD significantly expand the contracting pathways available to our customers. Going into FY27, our priorities are to execute these programs exceptionally well, continue investing in our people and capabilities, and build on this momentum across critical defense and civilian missions," said Miguel Gorordo, Vice President of Growth, C3EL.

C3EL enters FY27 with a broader portfolio of prime programs, government-wide technology acquisition vehicles, and increased access to defense modernization opportunities. The company will continue investing in technical and operational capabilities while delivering cybersecurity, enterprise IT, secure communications, and mission systems integration services across the federal government.

About C3EL

Command Control Communications Engineering & Logistics, LLC (C3EL) is a Woman-Owned Small Business delivering integrated information technology, communications, audio visual, cybersecurity, engineering, and logistics solutions to the U.S. Department of Defense and federal agencies. C3EL provides end-to-end technology products, systems integration, and mission support services for mission-critical environments.

For more information, visit www.c3el.com

SOURCE Command Control Communications Engineering & Logistics, LLC

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MY FRIEND'S PLACE ANNOUNCES PLANS FOR NEW PURPOSE-BUILT CAMPUS TO SERVE YOUNG PEOPLE EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS IN LOS ANGELES

New home will provide a welcoming, safe and purpose-built environment for young people, with construction anticipated to begin in 2027

LOS ANGELES, Oct. 7, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- My Friend's Place, a nonprofit organization serving young people experiencing homelessness in Los Angeles, today announced plans for a new, purpose-built campus that will become the organization's future home and support its work for generations to come.

Designed specifically around the needs of the young people My Friend's Place serves, the new campus will create a welcoming and safe environment where youth can access comprehensive services, resources and support under one roof. The project represents an important new chapter for My Friend's Place and will provide the organization with a space designed to reflect both the community it serves today and its vision for the future.

"This new campus is about creating a place where young people can feel safe, welcomed and supported from the moment they walk through the door," said Heather Carmichael, Executive Director of My Friend's Place. "For decades, My Friend's Place has been a place of connection and possibility for young people experiencing homelessness. This new home will allow us to build on that legacy while creating an environment designed for the future of our work."

The new campus is being made possible through a $20 million capital campaign, which has already secured more than $11.3 million in contributions. My Friend's Place has secured more than 55% of its overall goal as it enters the public phase of the campaign.

Longtime My Friend's Place supporter Miley Cyrus has been a passionate advocate for the organization and the young people it serves. As My Friend's Place embarks on this next chapter, Cyrus continues to champion its mission and vision for a new home for the community as the campaign's Honorary Chair.

"I'm proud to call Hollywood my home. I remember over 12 years ago going to My Friend's Place for the first time after realizing how many young people around me didn't have a place to call their home," said Cyrus. "I have seen firsthand over so many years the impact that My Friend's Place really can make on these younger people. I often quote 'a dream you dream alone is just a dream, but together it is a reality'. We would be honored and amazed if you would join us in making this new My Friend's Place campus a reality."

For the project, My Friend's Place has partnered with BAR Architects, MGAC for project management and Howard CDM as general contractor. Together, the teams bring extensive experience in community-focused projects and a shared commitment to creating a thoughtful, accessible and welcoming space for the young people who will call it home.

Emmy winning producer, actor, designer and best-selling author Bobby Berk is also lending his expertise to the project, bringing his extensive experience in design and his connections with leading brands to help shape the new campus. Berk's continued involvement will help bring the vision for the new space to life, with a focus on creating an environment that will be welcoming and reflective of the young people My Friend's Place serves.

Design plans and the construction budget are currently being finalized, with My Friend's Place anticipating all necessary approvals by December 2026 and a temporary relocation beginning in February 2027 to allow services to continue throughout the development process. Demolition of the current building and construction of the new facility are projected to begin in April 2027, with completion currently estimated for December 2028.

In preparation for the transition, My Friend's Place has begun the preliminary search for a temporary location. The organization will continue serving young people throughout the relocation and construction process, ensuring that critical programs and services remain available to the community.

To learn more about the campaign and how to support the future of My Friend's Place, visit myfriendsplace.org/capital-campaign/.

About My Friend's Place

On January 8, 1988, two friends working in Hollywood were compelled to help the homeless youth who populated the sidewalks just outside of their office door. Determined to effect change, no matter how small, the co-founders of My Friend's Place, Steve LePore and Craig Scholz, began spending their break time making and distributing sack lunches to the young people living on the streets. Soon, this simple act became a grassroots movement and Steve and Craig had assembled a group of kind-hearted volunteers who traversed Hollywood delivering meals. After countless hours of interactions with these young people, the duo realized providing meals only addressed a small portion of the issue. Within a year, the idea was born for creating a judgment-free, "safe place" where intangible needs such as physical and mental health services, creative outlets and employment and education assistance could be met. Thirty-eight years later, My Friend's Place has grown into a dynamic resource center that offers a comprehensive continuum of services to more than 1,300 homeless youth between the ages of 12 and 25, and their children and animal companions, each year.

SOURCE My Friend's Place

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Building on longstanding work advancing UNIMMAP-MMS and more than 30 years in maternal and child nutrition, Vitamin Angels shares new research on translating proven interventions into sustainable impact.

- Since 2018, Vitamin Angels has worked with governments and partners to advance UNIMMAP multiple micronutrient supplementation (MMS), combining implementation science, technical expertise, product supply and health systems strengthening to support sustainable scale-up.

- New research highlights how countries can improve the delivery, uptake, and adherence of MMS as part of antenatal care, while strengthening vitamin A supplementation and deworming programs for children.

- The findings demonstrate the importance of integrated nutrition interventions, country leadership and strong primary health care systems to deliver sustainable impact.

GOLETA, Calif., Oct. 7, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- At the 2026 Micronutrient Forum Global Conference in Accra, Ghana, Vitamin Angels shared new research and implementation evidence from across Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America, demonstrating how proven nutrition interventions can be effectively integrated into national health systems to improve maternal and child health.

The research builds on Vitamin Angels' longstanding experience advancing maternal and child nutrition programs, including its work since 2018 to accelerate the introduction and scale-up of UNIMMAP multiple micronutrient supplementation (MMS) and more than three decades of work expanding access to vitamin A supplementation and deworming. Its contributions reflect years of collaboration with governments, local partners, researchers and global health organizations to move beyond the availability of proven nutrition interventions and address the practical challenges of delivering them sustainably at scale.

"Since 2018, Vitamin Angels has been working alongside governments and local partners to advance the introduction and scale-up of UNIMMAP-MMS as part of antenatal care," said Dr. Ana Céspedes, President and CEO of Vitamin Angels. "Our experience has reinforced an important lesson: delivering a proven nutrition intervention is necessary, but it is not sufficient. Sustainable impact requires strong health systems, trained health workers, reliable product supply, effective behavior change strategies and, above all, country leadership. By combining implementation science with our global operational experience, we help countries adapt what works, accelerate learning, and build the capacity for sustainable scale-up."

From evidence to implementation: Advancing UNIMMAP-MMS within antenatal care

Among the research Vitamin Angels presented at the Forum were findings from Indonesia and Kenya examining how countries can strengthen the introduction and delivery of MMS.

In Indonesia, Vitamin Angels has worked with government, universities and technical partners since 2018 to advance MMS, including through implementation research, policy support, health worker training, behavior change strategies, and efforts to strengthen local product supply. This work helped inform Indonesia's government-led national MMS program, launched in October 2024. Building on that experience, new research presented at the Forum examined how digital tools could support MMS uptake and adherence as the program scales. A pilot using WhatsApp groups through existing health-system structures found the approach feasible and potentially scalable, while also identifying the importance of health worker training, consistent facilitation and engagement among pregnant women.

"Our objective is to support governments in building the capabilities required for sustainable nutrition programs," said Otte Santika, Vitamin Angels Country Advisor in Indonesia. "Digital innovation offers opportunities to strengthen existing health services, improve communication between health workers and pregnant women, and support MMS uptake and adherence. The key is developing practical solutions that governments can integrate into their own systems."

In Makueni County, Kenya, formative research conducted with the County Government demonstrated the importance of addressing adherence alongside access. While approximately 93% of pregnant women surveyed received iron and folic acid supplementation, only 17% completed the recommended 180-day course. At the same time, approximately 95% of pregnant women and 96% of health providers expressed support for MMS. The findings of this project, funded by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as part of the Caring for Women & Children, helped inform the introduction of Kenya's first county-wide MMS program, demonstrating how implementation research can translate into government-led action.

"We already have strong scientific evidence supporting MMS. What we need now is to understand how to deliver it consistently and effectively through real-world health systems," said Dr. Lucy Kanya, Vitamin Angels Africa Regional Technical Director and Transforming Lives Through Nutrition Project Lead. "Working alongside governments, health workers and communities allows us to identify what works in different contexts and translate those lessons into sustainable programs that can reach more women and children."

Additional research presented at the Forum examined MMS acceptability, service delivery and scale-up in Uganda, the Philippines, Zambia, Bhutan and Indonesia, generating practical evidence to inform country-specific implementation strategies.

Strengthening the evidence for integrated maternal nutrition

Beyond individual country studies, Vitamin Angels presented findings from a systematic review and meta-analysis of 51 studies examining strategies for delivering nutrition interventions during pregnancy. The peer-reviewed research, published in Advances in Nutrition in 2026, found that MMS could improve maternal anemia outcomes compared with iron and folic acid supplementation alone when introduced early in pregnancy and supported by individualized counseling and follow-up. It also highlighted the value of combining nutrition counseling, physical activity, and weight-gain monitoring within primary health care. These findings reinforce the importance of an integrated approach to antenatal care, with implementation strategies adapted to local health systems and population needs.

More than three decades of experience advancing child nutrition

Vitamin Angels' research at the Forum also extended beyond maternal nutrition. Research from India, Cambodia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo examined how countries can strengthen vitamin A supplementation and deworming programs, address barriers to coverage, and improve the delivery of routine child nutrition services.

In the Democratic Republic of Congo, where Vitamin Angels reached more than 13 million children with vitamin A in 2025, a landscape analysis conducted in collaboration with the government's National Nutrition Program identified opportunities to better integrate vitamin A supplementation and deworming into routine primary health care, including through stronger supply chain coordination, monitoring, and community engagement. The findings provide practical evidence to inform efforts to move beyond periodic campaigns toward more sustainable, government-led delivery.

Additional research from India and Cambodia examined barriers to vitamin A supplementation and deworming and opportunities to improve program delivery as country contexts and health systems evolve. Together, the findings demonstrate how decades of experience delivering proven child nutrition interventions can be paired with implementation research to strengthen the systems needed to sustain them over time.

Pioneering climate-resilient nutrition: Translating global priorities into action

Vitamin Angels also convened the symposium Increasing Climate Resilience Through Health System Strengthening and Nutrition Action, bringing together international researchers and government leaders to examine how integrated nutrition programs and stronger health systems can help protect maternal and child health amid increasing climate pressures.

This work is reflected in Vitamin Angels' innovative five-year Climate-Inspired Nutrition Through Action (CINTA) initiative in Indonesia. CINTA advances an integrated, climate-resilient approach to maternal and child nutrition at a time when the 2026 Global Nutrition Report is calling for stronger coordination across food and health systems to protect nutrition amid increasing climate pressures.

Working alongside the Indonesian government and local partners, Vitamin Angels is developing and supporting the scale-up of a climate-resilient, integrated package of nutrition interventions, including MMS, vitamin A supplementation, deworming, breastfeeding promotion and complementary feeding. The initiative brings together implementation science, policy development, health worker capacity strengthening, local supply chain development and improved nutrition monitoring. Over five years, CINTA aims to reach approximately 12 million women and children and train nearly one million health workers.

Translating science into sustainable impact

The evidence and implementation insights shared at the Micronutrient Forum reflect the approach underpinning Vitamin Angels 2030: Science. Systems. Scale., the organization's new five-year strategy to bring proven nutrition solutions to 477 million women and children across 57 countries by 2030. Building on its existing expertise and partnerships, the strategy deepens Vitamin Angels' focus on generating and applying evidence, strengthening health systems, and working alongside governments and partners to sustainably scale proven nutrition interventions.

To learn more about Vitamin Angels' research and its approach to advancing maternal and child nutrition, visit the Vitamin Angels' Micronutrient Forum webpage and Vitamin Angels 2030: Science. Systems. Scale.

Wally Raises $25 Million to Scale Nation's Fastest-Growing Oral Care Membership with Unlimited Cleanings & Diagnostics

For just $249 per year, Wally's members get unlimited cleanings and diagnostics, with exclusive access to additional proactive care treatments that are up to 75% more affordable.

Wally recently surpassed 50,000 members who visit 3x per year and give the platform a 4.9 star rating. It has a 97% hygienist retention rate and plans to expand from 15 to 100 locations by the end of 2027.

NEW YORK, Oct. 7, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Wally, a nationwide oral care platform, today announced $25 million in Series A funding led by Maveron, along with Bling Capital, and notable angel investors including Jack Abraham, co-founder of Hims. The company is also announcing a strategic partnership with EMS Dental, the developer of the world's most advanced dental cleaning technology.

America's Dental Problem: High Cost, Discomfort, and Bureaucracy

The U.S. dental system is fundamentally broken, trapped in an insurance model that results in only 40% of American adults going to the dentist each year. Over 80% of people want more dental care, but stay away because traditional visits are defined by financial complexity and physical discomfort. Legacy insurance rules and private equity takeovers force practices to maximize reimbursements rather than patient satisfaction, leading to rushed appointments and unnecessary invasive treatments. By profiting off decay rather than preventing it, the current system turns routine dental care into a stressful and high-cost ordeal.

"Wally is the best dental experience I've ever had. They really go above and beyond to understand your dental history, how you feel, what your worries are. They're wonderful at explaining the how's and why's of what they're doing. I tell everyone I know to go there," said Natasha S, a Wally customer.

Wally's Solution: $249 Per Year Membership for Unlimited Cleanings

Wally replaces traditional, reactive dental appointments with a seamless, AI-powered clinical platform built entirely around prevention and pricing transparency. No insurance, just a $249 per year membership to get the most modern preventative oral care experience: advanced diagnostics with AI-driven insights, and unlimited Swiss Airflow cleanings. Based on members' needs, they offer exclusive access to treatments like cavity reversal, so you never need to get drilled again. Wally builds its locations in co-working spaces, which allow for significantly faster and more convenient visits. They currently have 15 locations in New York City, Philadelphia, Jersey City, and Chicago.

Wally's key features include:

- Unlimited Cleanings & Whitening: Members receive unlimited preventative hygiene visits and professional whitening treatments to maintain optimal oral health year-round.

- Swiss AIRFLOW® Cleaning Technology: Uses Guided Biofilm Therapy to eliminate up to 100% of harmful biofilm and stain-causing bacteria without painful metal scraping.

- AI-Powered Diagnostics & Exams: Utilizes digital X-rays, 3D intraoral scans, saliva testing, and AI detection to visually display objective health data.

- Non-Invasive Cavity Reversal: Stops and remineralizes early-stage tooth decay before cavities form, eliminating the need for expensive fillings.

- Aligners & Nightguards: Delivers custom-fit protective nightguards and clear aligner orthodontic treatments at half the price of brand-name competitors.

- Wally AI-Powered App: Members can book appointments, see diagnostics results, clinical recommendations, and more.

"For fifty years, dentistry has run on simple math: get someone in the chair, find something to fix, bill the insurance, repeat," explained Tyler Burnett, Co-Founder and CEO of Wally. "Private equity-run dentistry perfected it. It works. Just not for people. The future is not more dentistry. We're rebuilding oral healthcare from the ground up by taking insurance out of the equation and focusing entirely on proactive, technology-driven care."

"Wally does something no one else in dental has pulled off: pain-free cleanings in half the time, on a single AI-driven platform that runs scheduling, operations, and guides clinicians through every appointment," said Jason Stoffer, Partner at Maveron. "Dentistry hasn't had a consumer brand people actually like. We think Wally is that brand, and the hardware, diagnostics, and AI behind it are what make it durable."

Wally's Future Plans: Nationwide Expansion & Hiring Across All Teams

With the new capital, Wally plans to bring its subscription oral care model to key new metropolitan hubs in Washington DC, Atlanta, Austin, and Miami, where they are establishing waitlists. To power this expansion from 15 to 100 locations, Wally is hiring aggressively across the board, both top-tier clinicians and operational leaders who will leverage its proprietary AI platform to deliver the most innovative oral care experience in the world.

Wally was founded by entrepreneur Tyler Burnett, engineer Stipe Latkovic, and consumer experience expert Chelsea Patel.

Patients or clinicians can learn more at https://www.carebywally.com/.

About Wally Health

Wally is the AI-powered, direct-to-consumer healthcare company building the first nationwide subscription dental brand. Powered by a proprietary technology platform and AI, Wally delivers a smarter, more personalized dental experience, including unlimited painless AIRFLOW® cleanings, exams, x-rays, 3D scans, and custom whitening for $249/year -- no insurance needed. To learn more or book an appointment, visit https://www.carebywally.com/.

Riley Munks

PR Advisor

Activate PR

https://www.activate-pr.com/

[email protected]

This release was issued through WebWire®. For more information, visit http://www.webwire.com.

SOURCE Wally

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ATLANTA, Oct. 7, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- During a milestone year for global volunteering, Habitat for Humanity International is proud to recognize 44 volunteers from 21 countries whose leadership, service and innovation are helping to strengthen communities and advance access to safe, affordable housing.

Habitat is proud to celebrate these volunteers who reflect the many ways people contribute to our vision of a world where everyone has a decent place to live, including through building and repairing homes, mobilizing communities, sharing professional skills, advocating for housing solutions, raising resources and inspiring others to serve.

This initiative comes as Habitat marks its 50th anniversary, and the United Nations observes the International Year of Volunteers for Sustainable Development. Together in 2026, these milestones provide an opportunity to celebrate the volunteers who have helped shape Habitat's first 50 years and those carrying our mission forward.

"One volunteer's impact can extend across a community, inspire others, change systems, and open doors to housing solutions that endure," said Jonathan Reckford, chief executive officer at Habitat for Humanity International. "We celebrate all that Habitat volunteers make possible around the world, every day. Volunteers built the foundation for Habitat, and they will continue to pave the way for our future."

The impact of this year's honorees takes many forms, reflecting the wide range of skills, experiences and perspectives they bring to Habitat. In Jordan, Fadi Miqdady led efforts to build 78 homes, rehabilitate more than 370 others and improve water access in remote villages. In South Korea, Sean Ro created public running and walking campaigns that have engaged tens of thousands of participants and raised approximately $5.7 million to support housing. In Kenya, Roseline Asena mobilized residents of the Mukuru Informal Settlement to advocate for adequate housing and helped bring community priorities into national policy discussions.

Víctor Oswaldo Martínez Flores helped establish Habitat for Humanity Guatemala and remains an active volunteer after 47 years, while in the United States, Eva Condron-Wells helped to advance a 107-home development in rural California.

2026 Global Honorees: Out of over 300 regional honoree nominations, twelve volunteers were selected for global recognition.

Back in Action: Recognizing volunteers who return, reconnect and deepen their commitment to Habitat's mission.

- Robyn Brown, nominated by Habitat Cambodia, who has served on more than 16 Habitat builds and grew from a volunteer participant into a Women Build team leader.

Bridge Builder: Recognizing volunteers who bring people, organizations or sectors together and turn shared purpose into collective action.

- Edwin Soeryadjaya, Indonesia, who mobilized more than 270 business leaders through the CEO Build initiative and expanded corporate participation in housing solutions.

Changemaker: Recognizing volunteers who contribute skills, ideas or innovative approaches that strengthen programs, systems or housing solutions.

- Alba Aleida Loy Toledo, Guatemala, who translated community priorities into improvements in housing, health, infrastructure, education and economic opportunity.

Community Catalyst: Recognizing volunteers who mobilize others and help communities turn their priorities and lived experiences into meaningful change.

- Roseline Asena, Kenya, who mobilized residents, strengthened youth advocacy and helped communities influence housing policy and public investment.

Community Cornerstone: Recognizing volunteers who build the relationships, trust and local leadership that sustain Habitat's work.

- Sean Ro, South Korea, who created public running and walking campaigns that have engaged tens of thousands of participants and raised approximately $5.7 million to support housing for descendants of independence patriots and war veterans.

Door Opener: Recognizing volunteers who create new possibilities by opening doors to people, partnerships, resources, or housing solutions.

- Fadi Miqdady, Jordan, who led efforts to build 78 homes, rehabilitate more than 370 others and improve water access in remote villages.

- Eva Condron-Wells, United States, who strengthened organizational capacity, community partnerships and advocacy in support of a 107-home development in rural California.

Emerging Leader: Recognizing volunteers who demonstrate growing leadership and the potential to inspire a new generation of service.

- Kevin McShan, Canada, who is advancing inclusive leadership, accessibility and community engagement through board service, storytelling and advocacy.

Lifetime Keystone: Recognizing volunteers whose extraordinary long-term service, leadership and mentorship have created an enduring legacy.

- Víctor Oswaldo Martínez Flores, Guatemala, who helped establish Habitat for Humanity Guatemala and remains an active volunteer after 47 years of service.

- Bob Schultz, United States, who has contributed more than 15,000 volunteer hours and used his electrical and construction expertise to help Habitat serve more than 450 families.

ReStore: Recognizing volunteers whose exceptional service, innovation or leadership strengthens Habitat ReStores and the housing work they help support.

- Wayne Richard, Canada, who has contributed 26 years of ReStore service, including testing donated electrical products and mentoring volunteers and students.

- Steven Lindquist, United States, who applied his technical expertise to modernize inventory, donor tracking and operational decision-making at Milwaukee Habitat.

Habitat also recognizes the following regional honorees:

Across these award categories, Habitat is also proud to recognize 32 regional honorees whose service, leadership and commitment are strengthening communities and advancing access to safe, affordable housing around the world.

- Back In Action

- Jan Bodewes, Netherlands; Dina Elizabeth Donis de León Vela, Guatemala

- Bridge Builder

- Hanan Abougabal Soliman, Egypt; Seare Desta, Ethiopia; María del Rosario Selman-Housein, Honduras

- Changemaker

- Sulochana Kumari Shah, Nepal; Geoffrey Muteka, Zambia; Jamie Cleaver, Canada; Tyler Spino, U.S.; Warren Kearns, Ireland

- Community Catalyst

- Akritirani Phuyal, Nepal; Edgar Rigoberto Santos, Guatemala

- Community Cornerstone

- Diana Ferariu, Romania; Veronica Valiente, Paraguay; Jaffer Wangai, Kenya

- Door Opener

- Ian Dyar, Lesotho; Juana Consuelo López Milian, Guatemala; Muskan Dinesh Lund, India; Dana Hardy, U.S.; Marilyn Boake, Canada; Murray Scotton, Canada; Luke Walker, Canada

- Emerging Leader

- Nujju Awale, Nepal; Erik Ducousso, Chile; Sipiliano Phiri, Zambia; Darren Thompson, U.S.

- Lifetime Keystone

- John Joseph Finnerty III, Macedonia; Sheila Kripalani, India; Mary Vandeveld U.S.; Bill Murphy, U.S.; Brent Froese, Canada; Angeline Pare, Canada

To learn more about volunteer opportunities, visit habitat.org/volunteer.

About Habitat for Humanity

Habitat for Humanity is a movement of people in your local area and around the world, working together to build more prosperous and vibrant communities by making sure everyone has a safe, affordable place to call home. Since our founding in 1976 as a Christian organization, together we have helped more than 65 million people globally build their futures on their own terms through access to decent housing. We've done that by working alongside people of all walks of life to build, repair and finance their homes, by innovating new ways of building and financing, and by advocating for policies that make constructing and accessing housing easier for everyone. Together, we build homes, communities and hope. To learn more, visit habitat.org

SOURCE Habitat for Humanity International

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WINDHAM, N.H., Oct. 7, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Emergency department (ED) volumes are projected to grow 6% over the next decade, adding to the pressures already shaping emergency care delivery across the United States.

To help healthcare leaders better understand the factors driving demand for emergent care, Medicus Healthcare Solutions, a leading locum tenens and healthcare workforce solutions company, released the 2026 edition of A System Under Strain: Rising Demands in Emergency Medicine.

Medicus' comprehensive report draws from national statistics, industry research, and proprietary insights to provide a data-driven look at:

- The emergency medicine workforce, including physician distribution and locum tenens data.

- Key factors contributing to rising demand for emergency care, including physician shortages and regional supply-demand gaps.

- ED wait times, boarding, and capacity pressures.

- Actionable workforce strategies healthcare organizations can use to strengthen coverage and ensure timely access to care.

Access the Complete Report: For an in-depth look at the emergency medicine workforce and strategies for navigating increasing demand, access the complete report here.

About Medicus Healthcare Solutions:

Medicus Healthcare Solutions is one of the nation's largest and fastest-growing locum tenens and healthcare workforce solutions companies, partnering with hospitals, health systems, medical groups, and clinicians across the United States. Medicus delivers a fully managed, end-to-end workforce model that seamlessly integrates high-performing physicians and advanced practice providers with a single, accountable team overseeing recruiting, credentialing, travel, scheduling, and onboarding.

The company's Medicus Transition Program rapidly stabilizes and rebuilds clinical services in complex care environments. MedicusOne, its AI-powered contingent workforce platform, provides healthcare leaders with real-time visibility into schedules, coverage, and spend to support smarter, more controlled workforce decisions, while MedicusIQ offers clinicians a streamlined, mobile-first experience to manage every aspect of their assignments. Guided by a people-first philosophy, Medicus builds long-term partnerships grounded in transparency, accountability, and measurable results. Learn more at www.medicushcs.com.

SOURCE Medicus Healthcare Solutions, LLC

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