Global survey of 3,250 travelers shows guests aren't rejecting AI – they're drawing a clear line between where it belongs and where they still want a person

Key findings:

- 89% of guests want either a balanced mix of AI and human-led hospitality or AI only working behind-the-scenes on repetitive tasks

- 75% say good hospitality depends on human staff, regardless of the technology behind it

- 59% believe that AI should take over repetitive tasks and save more room for hotel staff to build rapport and trust with the guest community

- Humans are preferred over AI at all nine touchpoints tested - including the most automatable task - arranging taxis - where 44% still chose a human over 28% who chose AI

NEW YORK, Oct. 7, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- New survey data released today by Mews, the operating system for hospitality, shows that as AI adoption in hotels accelerates, guest expectations are moving the opposite way - 89% of guests want either a hybrid stay blending AI and human service, or AI operating quietly in the background on repetitive tasks. Almost none want an AI-led stay.

59% of guests believe that AI should take over repetitive tasks, so hoteliers can instead focus on building trust with their guests. At a time when AI adoption in hotels has never moved faster, guests have never been clearer that they still want a human at the center of the stay - not at every point in it.

Attitudes toward AI during a stay: human connection is still important

That preference for a hybrid stay comes from somewhere specific: guests still want a human present. Even for the most automatable task tested – arranging taxis – 44% of guests chose a human over 28% who chose AI. The gap narrows as tasks get more transactional – room service orders come close to an even split (50% human vs. 23% AI) – then widens sharply wherever judgement, personalization or trust is involved: bar & restaurant service (72% prefer a human), front desk welcome (66%), and check-in & key (58%).

The pattern isn't an argument against automation – it's a guide to where it belongs. 75% of guests say good hospitality depends on human staff regardless of the technology behind it, which is exactly why hotels that unify guest data across every system are best positioned to use AI well: freeing staff from the admin and fragmentation that keep them at a screen instead of with a guest.

What this means for hotels: Automate the mundane, not the moments

This data shows that opportunity isn't in building AI-first experiences; it's in automating the mundane, so staff have more time for the moments that need a person. That means automated check-in and check-out, AI-driven upsells and room personalization, and real-time translation and guest messaging that handle routine questions instantly, plus the behind-the-scenes work (i.e. pricing, housekeeping coordination, reporting) that guests never see but that otherwise pull staff away from being in front of them.

"Guests are telling us exactly where they want AI and where they don't," said Richard Valtr, Founder of Mews. "The hotels that win this next decade won't be the ones that automate the most. They'll be the ones whose systems are unified enough that AI can actually deliver a new way of operating, and where staff can get back to providing a genuine human experience."

Travelers aren't rejecting AI outright; they're rejecting AI they can't see or control. The hotels that get this right won't be the ones automating the most, but the ones choosing carefully where automation belongs and leaving people everywhere else. The same goes for jobs: 67% of guests would worry about staff losing their jobs to AI, and 51% disagree that they wouldn't care if a hotel cut staff to adopt it.

This survey took place in July 2026 and covered 3,250 travelers across France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, Sweden, the UK and the US.

About Mews

Mews is the operating system for hospitality, unifying workflows across revenue, operations and the guest journey so teams can automate the mundane and focus on memorable guest experiences. The Mews platform spans PMS, POS, RMS, Housekeeping and Payments, helping hoteliers move from property management to profit management. Powering 15,000 customers across 85 countries, the company was named Best PMS (2024, 2025, 2026), Best POS (2026) and listed among the Best Places to Work in Hotel Tech for six years running by Hotel Tech Report.

Media contact: [email protected]

SOURCE Mews

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COLUMBUS, Ohio, Oct. 7, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Breezeline, a leading Internet, TV, phone, and wireless service provider, has been recognized for its superior fixed broadband experience in Columbus and Cleveland, as part of the Opensignal USA Awards - an independent global standard for analyzing consumers' connectivity experiences. This recognition highlights Breezeline's dedication to delivering exceptional Internet reliability, quality, and streaming capabilities.

Breezeline ranked #1 in:

Columbus

- Winner - Consistent Quality (Internet network service)

- Joint winner - Network Reliability

- Joint winner -Video experience/streaming

Cleveland

- Joint winner - Network Reliability

- Joint winner - Consistent Quality

"We are honored that Opensignal has recognized our network's exceptional home Internet and video performance," said Bart Nickerson, Chief Commercial Officer at Breezeline. "This #1 ranking is a direct result of Breezeline's local engagement in Ohio and our team's commitment to delivering the robust, high-speed connectivity our communities rely on."

Opensignal's Awards in USA Fixed Broadband Experience is the second of a two-part series of reports on Broadband Reliability Experience focusing on price and reliability metrics driving consumers' decisions. The report examines the price and reliability metrics driving consumer decisions across the 50 largest Metropolitan Statistical Areas (MSAs). By evaluating local broadband choices and comparing user experiences across technologies, the report leverages billions of daily measurements from over 100 million devices globally to provide an independent analysis of major network operators.

For more information, visit : Opensignal Awards – USA Fixed Broadband Experience — MSA View, May 2026

Discover what award-winning Internet feels like. Columbus and Cleveland residents can check service availability and offers at https://www.breezeline.com/near-me/ohio

ABOUT BREEZELINE

Breezeline is the seventh-largest cable operator in the United States. The company provides its residential and business customers with Internet, TV, and Phone services in 13 states: Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Virginia and West Virginia, as well as mobile service in most states in which it operates.

Opensignal Awards – USA Fixed Broadband Experience — MSA View, May 2026

Media contact

Isabelle Famery

Breezeline

[email protected]

SOURCE Breezeline

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NEW HAVEN, Conn., Oct. 7, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- General Dynamics Land Systems, a business unit of General Dynamics (NYSE: GD), and Primordial Labs today announced a master teaming agreement to bring natural language command and control to ground combat vehicles.

The collaboration pairs GDLS's expertise in combat vehicle design and integration with Anura, Primordial Labs' Natural Language Command and Control (NLC2) software, enabling crews to direct on-board vehicle systems by simply stating their goals, objectives and constraints for what they want accomplished.

Through this partnership, Primordial Labs will expand the integration of Anura across vehicles in the General Dynamics Land Systems portfolio. Rather than navigating menus and manual controls for every task, crews can express their intent via natural language and let Anura carry out actions through interaction with relevant on-board subsystems such as sensors, displays, communications and uncrewed systems that would otherwise require dedicated operator stations. Because Anura runs entirely at the edge with no cloud reachback, these capabilities remain available in contested, communications-denied environments.

Historically, every new capability added to a combat vehicle has meant a new control scheme, more training and increased load on the crew. Anura breaks that cycle: one interface absorbs each new subsystem or software update as it's integrated, letting the Army and Marine Corps field new technology across platforms at the pace it is developed.

"Our customer has made it very clear that the formations of the future are dynamic. Platforms are increasingly software-defined and incorporate advanced on-board and off-board robotics. The Army has a need for any soldier, in any formation, to intuitively control any system. We built Anura to help our customers realize this vision through reduced cognitive, physical, and training burden," said Lee Ritholtz, CEO of Primordial Labs. "Anura is the interface that empowers a small armored crew to seamlessly interact with everything from on-board mission systems to uncrewed teammates. Partnering with GDLS puts Anura on the platforms that define America's armored force. Together, we're delivering the dynamic formations the Army and Marine Corps need."

"We see natural-language control as a critical enabler of greater lethality with a smaller crew size, reduced physical workloads and increased cognitive performance for maneuver combat teams," said Keith Barclay, vice president and general manager of U.S. operations at General Dynamics Land Systems. "Our partnership with Primordial Labs and the integration of Anura onto platforms such as the Abrams tank and our next-generation combat vehicles are about giving any soldier, in any formation, the ability to intuitively command complex systems. Together, we are transforming combat vehicles into adaptable, AI-enabled teammates and delivering the human‑machine collaboration our customers need."

About Primordial Labs

Primordial Labs is building the next-generation human-machine interface, Anura, to empower the warfighter to dynamically collaborate with crewed and uncrewed systems. Anura blends intent-based natural language understanding with platform-agnostic autonomy to make orchestrating military systems as easy as talking to a human teammate. Learn more at www.primordial-labs.com.

About General Dynamics Land Systems

General Dynamics Land Systems provides innovative design, engineering, technology, production and full life-cycle support for land combat vehicles around the globe. The company's extensive experience, customer-first focus and seasoned supply chain network provide unmatched capabilities to the U.S. military and its allies. More information about General Dynamics Land Systems is available at www.gdls.com.

SOURCE Primordial Labs, Inc.

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Concerts, cultural festivals, and community events showcase the versatility of Great Park Live as the Great Park continues its evolution into a premier Southern California destination.

IRVINE, Calif., Oct. 7, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Following a landmark summer, Great Park Live heads into October with a diverse lineup of concerts, cultural festivals, and community events that showcases the versatility of the City of Irvine-owned venue — and the growing potential of the surrounding Great Park to accommodate entertainment and experiences at multiple scales.

Operated by PSQ Productions, Great Park Live is a state-of-the-art, 10,000-capacity outdoor amphitheater set within the expansive grounds of the Great Park. Its purpose-built concert infrastructure, combined with the flexibility of the surrounding park, creates something increasingly rare in Southern California: a venue that can accommodate traditional concerts and community events while also serving as the anchor for larger, customized festival experiences.

October puts that versatility on full display with programming that includes:

- October 3–4: Mehregan Persian Festival: A two-day celebration of Persian culture, music, food, and community.

- October 10: Irvine Global Village Festival: One of Irvine's signature annual celebrations featuring food, music, art, and cultures from around the world.

- October 17–18: Asian Food, Music & Cultural Festival: A two-day celebration of Asian food, live music, entertainment, and culture.

- October 23: Rise Against: The acclaimed rock band takes the Great Park Live stage with Alkaline Trio and Teen Mortgage.

- October 30: Irvine Nights Halloween Movies: Minions & Monsters (PG) at 6 p.m., followed by Hocus Pocus (PG) at 8 p.m.

"October really demonstrates what makes Great Park Live special," said Mark Entner, Founder and CEO of PSQ Productions. "In one month, we'll welcome cultural festivals, one of Irvine's signature community celebrations, a national touring concert, and a Halloween movie night. It's a great example of the flexibility of this venue and the incredible opportunities that exist within the Great Park."

BUILT TO SCALE

Great Park Live's growing momentum builds on a season that demonstrates the venue's ability to support a wide range of events, entertainment, and community experiences.

For select productions, Great Park Live can serve as the anchor for larger event footprints utilizing the adjacent Terraced Lawn area of the Great Park—creating opportunities for dual stages, festival grounds, sponsor activations, hospitality areas, food and beverage experience, and other event elements tailored to the vision and needs of each production.

That potential was demonstrated this summer with the inaugural Daisy Chain Fields, founded by Olivia Rodrigo and produced by C3 Presents. The sold-out event welcomed more than 45,000 guests and featured a multi-stage festival experience, with Great Park Live serving as an integral part of the larger footprint.

From community gatherings and touring concerts to cultural festivals and major multi-stage experiences, Great Park Live offers promoters and producers something increasingly rare in Southern California: a state-of-the-art venue within the distinctive setting of the Great Park, with the space and flexibility to think bigger and scale.

Great Park Live also serves as the summer home of Pacific Symphony and continues to welcome an expanding mix of touring artists, festivals, cultural celebrations, and community programming.

A DESTINATION ON THE RISE

The momentum at Great Park Live comes at a transformational time for the Great Park itself.

The City of Irvine continues to advance its vision for the 1,300-acre Great Park as a premier Southern California destination for sports, recreation, arts, culture, and entertainment, with significant investment underway throughout the park and surrounding area.

That growth is increasingly visible around Great Park Live.

In September, In-N-Out Burger became the first business to open at The Canopy, a new 12-acre retail and dining destination near Great Park Live. The development will ultimately bring more than 90,000 square feet of restaurants, retail, wellness, and everyday services to the area, with additional businesses opening in phases.

In 2027, the Great Park is also expected to welcome professional baseball, further expanding the destination's year-round mix of sports, entertainment, and community experiences.

Access to the Great Park is evolving alongside that growth. The City's Marine Way extension and undercrossing project will create an important new connection between the Great Park and the Irvine Spectrum area, improving access and circulation as the destination continues to develop.

Together, the continued investment in entertainment, sports, dining, infrastructure, and public amenities is helping transform the Great Park into something much larger than any single venue — a year-round Southern California destination built for experiences of all sizes.

LOOKING AHEAD TO 2027

As the Great Park continues to grow and Great Park Live demonstrates its ability to support an increasingly diverse range of programming, PSQ Productions is partnering with the City of Irvine to build the venue's 2027 calendar.

Great Park Live welcomes inquiries for concerts, festivals, cultural events, corporate experiences, sporting events, community celebrations, and large-scale private productions.

Opportunities range from traditional Great Park Live events to expanded concepts utilizing additional areas of the Great Park, subject to availability and City approval.

"There's tremendous opportunity here," said Entner. "We can sit down with a producer, understand what they're trying to create, and work collaboratively with the City to explore what is possible. Great Park Live gives us an incredible state-of-the-art venue, and the surrounding Great Park gives producers room to imagine something much bigger. We're building 2027 now, and we're excited to have those conversations."

Promoters, event producers, brands, and organizations interested in exploring 2027 opportunities are encouraged to contact [email protected] for venue information, available dates, site tours, and customized event discussions.

About City of Irvine and the Great Park

Since its incorporation in 1971, Irvine has become a nationally recognized city, with a population of 317,774, spanning 66 square miles, and is recognized as one of America's safest and most successful master-planned urban communities. Top-rated schools, an enterprising business atmosphere, strong environmental stewardship, and respect for diversity all contribute to Irvine's enviable quality of life.

This family-friendly city features more than 16,000 acres of parks, sports fields, and dedicated open space, and is the home to the Great Park. For more information, please visit cityofirvine.org.

The Great Park, built on the historic grounds of the former Marine Corps Air Station El Toro, is rapidly becoming one of Southern California's premier destinations. Spanning 1,300 acres, the park blends recreation, competitive sports, entertainment, cultural experiences, and preserved natural space.

With more than 500 acres already open and welcoming over 6 million visitors each year, the City is now in the midst of an ambitious next phase of development that will add 300 acres of exciting new amenities — including lakes, cultural attractions, and expansive areas for passive enjoyment. Learn more about the Great Park's vision and development at greatparkdevelopment.org.

At the heart of this vibrant destination is Great Park Live, a premier 10,000-capacity outdoor concert and event venue operated by PSQ Productions. Throughout the year, the venue hosts a dynamic lineup of concerts, festivals, cultural celebrations, and community events. For upcoming shows and tickets at Great Park Live, visit greatparklive.com.

About PSQ Productions

PSQ Productions is Orange County's leading event production and venue management company, specializing in large-scale concerts, festivals, professional sports, and immersive community experiences. Based in Irvine, PSQ brings more than 30 years of experience producing and hosting thousands of events across Southern California's most prominent venues and signature destinations.

Each year, PSQ Productions delivers more than 200 events that attract over 500,000 guests annually, combining creative vision, operational excellence, and deep industry relationships to create experiences that resonate with audiences, elevate brands, and strengthen community connections.

In addition to producing major events, PSQ Productions manages two premier venues in Orange County: the 10,000-capacity Great Park Live amphitheater and the 5,000-capacity Championship Soccer Stadium, home of Orange County's only professional soccer team, Orange County Soccer Club.

For more information, visit psqproductions.com.

SOURCE PSQ Productions

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ONTARIO, Calif., Oct. 7, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Early registration is now open for Ontario International Airport's (ONT) 5th annual 5K at the Runway, one of the Inland Empire's most unique community events, taking place Saturday, February 6, 2027.

The award-winning 5K at the Runway offers runners and walkers a rare opportunity to experience the National Guard hangar area adjacent to ONT's runways, bringing together aviation, fitness and patriotism in a one-of-a-kind setting—all while supporting the USO at ONT. More than 2,000 runners, walkers, sponsors and supporters participated in the 2026 event, helping establish it as a signature annual fundraiser for the airport and the region.

A portion of event proceeds benefit the USO at ONT, the third-largest USO airport center in the nation, supporting thousands of service members and their families each year as they travel through Ontario. This year's 5K raised nearly $83,000 for the USO at ONT, lifting the total raised during the first four years to $168,771.

"What started as a unique way to bring our community onto the airfield has grown into something much bigger," said Atif Elkadi, Chief Executive Officer of the Ontario International Airport Authority. "The 5K at the Runway has become a tradition that reflects so much of what ONT is about—community, connection and bringing people together. We're proud to serve as your airport, and we're especially proud that the excitement surrounding this event translates into meaningful support for the USO and the service members and families it serves."

Early registration for the 2027 event is $50 for the 5K and $20 for the 1-mile Family Walk. Fees increase to $55 and $25 after December 13, and to $60 and $30 on race day. Registration includes a commemorative T-shirt, finisher medal and a free beer for participants 21 and older. Active-duty military members and veterans receive a 50% discount using promo code THANKYOU.

The 5K will begin at 8 a.m. from the National Guard hangar on the south side of the airfield, followed by the 1-mile family walk/run at 9:30 a.m.

From 8:30-11 a.m., the celebration continues with a free Community Event featuring food trucks, entertainment, vendor booths and family-friendly activities. The event will also showcase ONT and its airport partners, giving attendees an opportunity to learn more about the people and organizations that help keep Southern California's Ontario International Airport moving.

Registration for the 5th annual event comes as ONT celebrates its Decade of Local Control, with a formal Gala set for November 6. Since returning to local ownership in 2016, the popular Southern California gateway has seen passenger volumes soar past 7 million per year.

For more information and to register for the 5k at the Runway, visit flyOntario.com/5K.

About Ontario International Airport

Ontario International Airport (ONT) is the second most popular mid-sized airport in the United States, according to J.D. Power's most recent North America Airport Satisfaction Study. Located in the Inland Empire, ONT is approximately 35 miles east of downtown Los Angeles in the center of Southern California. It is a full-service airport which offers nonstop commercial jet service to two dozen major airports in the U.S., Mexico, Central America and Taiwan. More information is available at www.flyOntario.com. Follow @flyONT on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram

OIAA Media Contact:

Steve Lambert (909) 841-7527 [email protected]

SOURCE Ontario International Airport

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Eastern Atlantic States Carpenters to build national model for construction management degree at Slippery Rock University

First online classes built on the foundation of apprenticeship learning begins Dec. 2026

SLIPPERY ROCK, Pa., Oct. 7, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Construction projects depend on people who understand how work happens in the field. A new degree launching in December 2026 is designed to help those workers prepare for the next stage of their careers by building a unique degree pathway that builds on what they have learned in the trade.

The Eastern Atlantic States Carpenters have been primary architects of a unique curriculum for their members to earn a Bachelor of Applied Science in construction management, leveraging the national academic reputation of Slippery Rock University.

"This partnership complements and expands on the skills of people in the construction industry and provides leadership training for their long-term career growth," said Nicole Dafoe, dean of the College of Engineering and Science at SRU. "Together we will create the next generation of construction managers whose impact will extend far beyond construction, helping build the schools, health care facilities, workplaces and community spaces that strengthen the region and improve everyday life for us all."

The jointly developed curriculum focuses on the career growth of apprentices and journey workers, as well as community college students and career and technical education graduates. It provides a pathway into construction management that also prepares them for increased leadership opportunities around safety and construction technology.

"Our industry faces a significant workforce shortage and an increasing need for skilled craftspeople, project managers, project engineers, estimators, and other construction professionals. Addressing this challenge requires collaboration, innovation, and investment in the next generation of industry leaders," said John Mascaro Jr., president and CEO of Mascaro Construction Company (MCC), a family-owned company that serves as a catalyst for growth by creating projects that generate lasting value for communities throughout western Pennsylvania. "This partnership between Slippery Rock University and The EAS Carpenters Union brings trade expertise and higher education together to help meet the needs of our Industry. This is the kind of practical innovation that earns our support by creating and growing skilled union workers while helping to develop the next generation of construction leaders." MCC has been named to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette's "Top Workplaces" for 10 consecutive years.

The degree connects skilled trades learning with university coursework in construction leadership, safety and building technologies for apprentices, journey workers and other adults seeking to advance in the construction industry.

"The concept of an either-or choice between trades education and higher education is outdated and represents a false dichotomy," said Karen Riley, SRU president. "Both have tremendous value, and together they create greater opportunities for individuals, employers and our region. Bringing these pathways together allows us to respond more directly to what workers need to advance their careers and achieve their life goals, while also addressing what employers need to grow and strengthen the regional economy."

For apprentices and journey workers, the path through higher education can be difficult to navigate. This program is designed to make that path clearer by connecting prior learning with coursework suited to working adults and a bachelor's degree focused on the construction workforce.

"The partnership rests on our mutual mission, education and excellence, and our combined dedication and contributions are essential to building the next generation of leaders," said Alex Fulton, coordinator, EAS Carpenters Training Center. "The carpenters bring the technical expertise and experience from the job site and SRU has the experienced faculty with the demonstrated expertise needed to help our members take on new responsibilities as their careers develop."

The degree includes three certificates in construction management, construction safety and construction technologies. Each gives students a focused area of study within the broader bachelor's degree that also serves as progression milestones to their degree.

"The collaboration addresses a long-standing divide in how higher education and career choices are presented," said Tim Slekar, associate provost for academic innovation at SRU. "The innovation here is bringing the skilled trades and higher education together in one connected pathway. By building university study on the foundation of apprenticeship learning, we're combining the strengths of both to create new opportunities for workers and meet the needs of the construction industry."

"This program creates a continuum of learning and a clear pathway for career and professional development—from hands-on skills and technical expertise to the leadership and management capabilities needed to lead the next generation of the construction industry," President Riley continued. "By connecting these educational pathways, we are not asking individuals to choose between trades and higher education; we are creating opportunities for them to build on both. "

Designed for adults balancing work and education, the program combines online coursework with in-person learning opportunities.

The first information session is scheduled to take place over Zoom on Monday, Oct. 12, at 7 p.m. To register visit sru.edu/BASTrade or contact Mike May, vice president for enrollment management, at 724.738.2015 or [email protected] with questions.

SOURCE Slippery Rock University

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Ohio Deka Lash studios offer 50% off any facial with a lash extension or lash lift while highlighting the growing popularity of the Korean Lash Lift

CANTON and AKRON, Ohio, Oct. 7, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Deka Lash locations serving Canton and Akron are giving "PSL season" a beauty-inspired twist with Get Your PSL the Deka Way: Perfect Skin + Lashes, offering clients 50% off any facial with any lash extension or lash lift service.

The seasonal promotion gives clients an opportunity to combine professional skincare with one of Deka Lash's signature lash services in a single beauty experience. Whether clients prefer the impact of customized lash extensions or the lower-maintenance enhancement of a lash lift, the Canton and Akron studios are helping clients pair refreshed skin with professionally styled lashes.

The promotion comes as interest in lash lifts continues to grow, including strong early demand for Deka Lash's recently introduced Korean Lash Lift. Following its nationwide launch in May, Deka Lash surpassed 1,500 Korean Lash Lift services performed across its national network within the first 45 days, demonstrating the rapid adoption of the new service.

The Korean Lash Lift uses a specialized flat-rod technique designed to capture lashes closer to the base, helping maximize the appearance of the natural lash length while creating a soft, elegant finish. The service complements Deka Lash's traditional Lash Lift and extensive lash extension menu, giving clients additional options based on their natural lashes, preferred look and daily beauty routine.

Deka Lash is also known for its proprietary TrueXpress® refill method, which provides lash extension refills in approximately 30 minutes. Combined with Lash Lift, Korean Lash Lift, brow services and professional skincare offerings, Deka Lash continues to expand the ways clients can simplify their beauty routines while receiving services customized to their individual features and goals.

With Get Your PSL the Deka Way, clients at the Canton and Akron locations can receive 50% off a facial when booked with any lash extension or lash lift service. The promotion is designed for clients looking to refresh both their skin and lashes as the seasons change while experiencing multiple beauty services from the Deka Lash team.

Clients interested in the Korean Lash Lift can also speak with their Lash Artist about whether the traditional Lash Lift or Korean Lash Lift is better suited for their natural lashes and desired result. Deka Lash artists receive specialized education and certification designed to provide consistent service across the company's growing network of studios.

Deka Lash also offers Deka Beauty Pass, the company's membership program providing preferred pricing on Lash Lift, Korean Lash Lift and other eligible beauty services, along with savings on retail products at participating Deka Lash locations nationwide.

Appointments for lash extensions, Lash Lift, Korean Lash Lift, facials and other available beauty services can be scheduled through the Deka Lash Canton and Akron locations. To learn more, find a studio or book an appointment, visit https://dekalash.com/find-a-studio/ohio/akron-fairlawn/ and https://dekalash.com/find-a-studio/ohio/canton/.

ABOUT DEKA LASH

For more than a decade, Deka Lash has redefined professional lash and brow services through advanced education, innovative techniques and a client-first approach to beauty. With a nationwide presence, Deka Lash has become one of North America's leading professional lash brands. Through its expanding portfolio of Deka+ locations, the company is broadening its offerings to include science-backed medical aesthetic services, creating a more comprehensive destination for beauty and aesthetics.

Website: https://dekalash.com/find-a-studio/ohio/akron-fairlawn/

https://dekalash.com/find-a-studio/ohio/canton/

SOURCE Deka Lash

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Therap Services Hosts Virtual Event Addressing Fraud, Waste, and Abuse in LTSS and HCBS Programs

TORRINGTON, Conn., Oct. 7, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Therap Services, the national leader in HIPAA-compliant electronic documentation solutions for Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD), Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS), and Long-Term Services recently hosted a virtual event titled "Program Integrity for States and Providers: How to Identify and Avoid Fraud, Waste, and Abuse."

More than 1,000 people registered for the event, including state directors, agency administrators and CEOs. The event focused on evolving Medicaid compliance requirements and strategies for identifying and avoiding fraud, waste, and abuse (FWA).

The event provided an opportunity for professionals across the IDD, HCBS, and LTSS sectors to learn about emerging compliance considerations, common FWA risks, and strategies for strengthening program integrity and accountability.

Key Topics Covered

Presenters discussed the changing Medicaid and HCBS regulatory landscape, state enforcement trends, the 2027 Medicaid Employment Mandate, provider enrollment moratoriums, and strategies for improving compliance and audit readiness through electronic documentation, EVV integration, AI-powered quality assurance, and governance controls.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is the primary focus of Therap's Program Integrity solutions for LTSS and HCBS providers?

A: Therap provides automated guardrails, claim-to-documentation linking, and real-time quality assurance tools to help providers prevent billing errors, maintain compliance, and mitigate Medicaid Fraud, Waste, and Abuse (FWA) risks.

Q: How does Therap help agencies prepare for state and federal audits?

A: Therap provides time-stamped audit logs, point-of-care Electronic Visit Verification (EVV), and reporting dashboards that help agencies verify service delivery and allows them to conduct self-audits before post-payment reviews.

Q: How can care providers protect themselves against payment holds or billing anomalies?

A: Providers can use role-based permissions, pre-billing automated checks, and Therap AI tools to identify missing notes and documentation gaps before claims are submitted to payers.

Looking Ahead

Therap Services' 2026 Fall Showcase: Exploring New AI Analytics is scheduled for October 20, 2026, at 2:00 PM EST, featuring expanded AI analytics and Fatal Five functionality.

About Therap Services 

Therap provides HIPAA-compliant software for documentation, communication, reporting, EVV, and billing in human services settings.

Learn more: https://www.therapservices.net/

SOURCE Therap Services

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LEBANON, Ore., Oct. 7, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Western University of Health Sciences' Heatherington College of Osteopathic Medicine (WesternU HCOM) participated in the 19th annual Portland Health Care Equity Fair (HCEF) hosted by Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026. The event offers a range of free health services to the community, with a focus on connecting uninsured and underinsured individuals with accessible, long-term care.

For the fifth consecutive year, WesternU joined the HCEF in bringing students, faculty, and community volunteers together to serve the Portland community. From health and wellness services to food distribution, mental health education, and personal care, this year's event offered a wide range of resources to those who needed them most. Participating organizations included the Pacific Psychology and Comprehensive Health Clinic, Multnomah County Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities Services Division, Feed the Mass, Oregon Food Bank, Hairstyles for Humanity, the University of Western States and more.

The event is organized by OHSU and WesternU HCOM students who take on a variety of roles, including logistics, finance, publicity, community outreach, operations, and volunteer recruitment. For OHSU student Thuy Dien, serving as a committee lead this year offered a new perspective on the extensive planning and coordination required to make the event possible, from managing inventory and securing donated items to ensuring supplies are ready for patients on the day of the event.

"Last year I was a medical assistant helping in the primary care provider (PCP) tents, helping patients to get their health screenings. This year as a lead, I've gotten to learn how much work it takes to put this all together, how much it takes behind the scenes to come together in order to make things happen," said Dien. "It's something I'm going to take with me in the future."

Beyond providing students with valuable experience in event organization and leadership, the HCEF creates opportunities for collaboration across health care programs and institutions. In addition to medical students from OHSU and WesternU HCOM, students from the OHSU School of Nursing, the OHSU School of Dentistry, and Oregon State University's School of Pharmacy participate in the event, working alongside their peers to provide care and connect community members with health resources. Bringing together students from multiple health care disciplines also creates an interdisciplinary learning experience, allowing students to better understand how different areas of health care can work together to address the needs of the whole patient. Students share perspectives, learn from one another, and build connections while working toward a common goal of serving the community.

"It has been incredible," said second-year WesternU HCOM student Megan Van Der Walt. "Getting to interact with other students that are kind of in the same boat, going through the same things and working towards a goal of providing care and services to the community. Working together to directly tackle barriers to care has been really fun and rewarding."

For OHSU student Merel De Leenheer, participating in the fair offers a firsthand look at some of the challenges community members face when accessing health care.

"It really opened my eyes to how many barriers we have in the medical system. That was something I already knew but wasn't something that I had seen or experienced at all firsthand until the fair," said De Leenheer. "And how grateful people who come to the fair are for any of the services we provided. Last year I was at the checkout table and was handing out sunscreen and Advil, just little things they could put in their bag. The gratitude that I saw in these people, I think it really made a difference, and it's something I'll definitely take into my future practice."

WesternU HCOM Assistant Professor of Family Medicine Gina Miller, MD, helped organize the first Health Care Equity Fair in 2008 while in medical school at OHSU. Today she serves as the WesternU HCOM faculty advisor, supporting students who share her passion for accessible health care.

"Because I've been there for so many years in a row, and I'm not necessarily the physician in charge of supervising patient care, but more just available and in charge of the event if there were emergencies, I get to be part of the flow of seeing patients come through. There are multiple patients that I recognize annually that are consistently coming in and seeking medical care," said Dr. Miller. "After 19 years, you really do build a set of patients and you wish that they could have regular primary care in the interim, but for many reasons, they're unable to access those services routinely."

In 2025, WesternU Oregon held the first Rural Health Care Equity Fair in Lebanon, Oregon. Similar to the HCEF, this event provides access to a variety of health services and educational opportunities to community members, free of charge. The Rural Health Care Equity Fair is held annually on the first Saturday of May and will be held May 1, 2027, at the Lebanon River Center.

SOURCE Western University of Health Sciences (WesternU)

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The Inner Circle acknowledges Jason Gallup, MS HRD, SHRM-CP as a Pinnacle Professional of The Year

PEWAUKEE, Wis., Oct. 7, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Jason Gallup, MS HRD, SHRM-CP is acknowledged as a Pinnacle Professional of The Year for his contributions to Human Resources Leadership in Manufacturing.

Mr. Gallup serves as Head of Human Resources, North America, for Messer Cutting Systems Inc., a German-based machining manufacturing company. In this role, he leads strategic human resources initiatives and daily operations across North America, partnering with executive leadership to design and implement programs and policies that strengthen organizational performance. He manages large-scale projects, including human resources information system migrations and comprehensive handbook revisions, and provides guidance to a dedicated team while advising international leaders on U.S. labor laws and regulatory requirements.

A specialist in human resource leadership, Mr. Gallup's expertise spans HRIS implementation, policy development, employee relations, training and development, benefits administration, talent acquisition and workforce planning, and onboarding. He drives employee engagement strategies to improve retention, cultivates leadership development, and advances compliance and operational excellence. Known for emotional intelligence, advanced communication styles, and change management, he adapts approaches for a multigenerational workforce and partners with technical schools and community organizations to strengthen talent pipelines.

During his tenure at Messer Cutting Systems, Mr. Gallup has led a transformation of the company's approach to employee engagement within a traditional manufacturing environment. He revitalized the human resources function by fostering trust, collaboration, and emotionally intelligent leadership, helping managers and supervisors connect empathetically with their teams while maintaining high performance standards. He also contributed to the recruitment of new executive leadership, including a chief executive officer and chief financial officer from outside the organization, supporting growth and progress. Additionally, he monitors labor market trends to inform planning and serves as a strategic advisor on workforce issues.

Previously, Mr. Gallup was director of human resources at Complete Mobile Dentistry, Inc. and Complete Dental Staffing LLC, where he oversaw contractor dental staff for the U.S. Army nationwide and maintained business continuity in complex regulatory environments. Earlier, he served in human resources leadership roles at Great Wolf Lodge Resorts during a period of significant organizational change and contributed to improved store operations as a fixer at The TJX Companies Inc. His earlier career includes leadership roles with Target and Kohl's Department Stores, and he began developing his leadership capabilities as an Aquatics Director with the Boy Scouts of America.

Mr. Gallup earned a Master of Science in Human Resources Development from Villanova University in 2018 and a bachelor's degree in liberal studies and communication from the University of Wisconsin–Oshkosh in 2009. He also participated in an international student program at University College London in 2001. His professional credentials include SHRM-Certified Professional, an HR Business Partner Certificate from Villanova, and training on the Service Contract Act of 1965.

Active in the profession and the community, Mr. Gallup is affiliated with Metro Milwaukee SHRM, the Society for Human Resource Management, and Beta Theta Pi. His recognitions include selection for inclusion in Marquis Who's Who (2026), Top Workplaces in Wisconsin by The Wisconsin State Journal (2022), Regional Executive of the Quarter from Marshalls Regional Management (2017), Store of the Year from Kohl's Corporate Office (2008), Eagle Scout, Vigil member of the Order of the Arrow, and Target's Guest VIBE Award. He also leads civic efforts such as Versiti Blood Center onsite donations, Hunger Task Force food drives, Susan G. Komen Walks as a team captain, and Operation Gratitude campaigns.

Beyond work, Mr. Gallup enjoys baseball, travel and national parks, collecting rare and first-edition books, gardening, baking and cooking, golfing, spending time with family and friends, walking his dog Pippa, and building Star Wars Lego sets. He credits the steady support of his wife, Hayley, their Ohana, and extended family and friends as vital to his professional journey.

Looking ahead, Mr. Gallup envisions continued growth at Messer Cutting Systems through organizational optimization, enhanced training programs, robust policy development, and leadership development—particularly among middle management—along with stronger branding and an inclusive culture that advances the company's position as an employer of choice.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-gallup-m-s-hrd-shrm-cp-8733a659/

Contact: Katherine Green, 516-825-5634, [email protected]

SOURCE The Inner Circle

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