Picarro Delivers Top Performance in DVGW FaMeGQ Research Project for Vehicle-Based Methane Leak Detection

Picarro was the only system to detect all 10 methane events during real-world field testing, demonstrating the effectiveness of its AMLD technology and survey methodology

SANTA CLARA, Calif., Oct. 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Picarro, Inc., the global leader in Network Intelligence and methane emissions reduction solutions, today announced that its Advanced Mobile Leak Detection (AMLD) solution achieved the highest overall performance in the Deutscher Verein des Gas- und Wasserfaches (DVGW)-funded Fahrzeuggestützte Methanmessung (FaMeGQ) research project, a rigorous evaluation of vehicle-based methane detection technologies conducted in Germany.

Six vehicle-based systems were evaluated in a two-stage qualification process that included controlled test-field validation in Düsseldorf and real-world operational validation on an active gas distribution network in Regensburg. Picarro, identified as Vehicle Fz-1 in the DVGW report, successfully passed both stages and obtained qualification without limitations.

Most notably, Picarro was the only system to detect all 10 methane events available for evaluation during the real-world field test, eight controlled releases plus two previously unknown leaks that were subsequently independently confirmed. This represented a 100% detection rate, the highest result achieved in the field validation.

"FaMeGQ provides important independent evidence that advanced vehicle-based methane detection can deliver the performance utilities need to protect network safety while meeting increasingly demanding methane regulations," said François-Xavier Rongère, Vice President, Natural Gas at Picarro. "Detecting every methane event in the live-network test — including two leaks that were not part of the test itself — demonstrates the strength of both Picarro's technology and the survey methodology we have refined through years of deployments around the world."

Delivering the Best Performance in Controlled and Real-World Testing

During the controlled test-field evaluation in Düsseldorf, methane releases ranging from 5 to 15 liters per hour were positioned at varying distances from vehicle routes and exposed to different wind and environmental conditions. Participating systems were required to achieve a minimum detection rate of 90%. Picarro achieved a 96% detection rate, the best result among all competitors, successfully passing the qualification requirements.

Testing then moved to approximately 50 kilometers of active gas distribution network in Regensburg, where eight controlled methane releases were installed. Picarro identified all eight and discovered two additional unknown leaks that were independently confirmed, resulting in a 100% detection rate across all 10 methane events — the only system in the study to do so.

Validating the Picarro Survey Methodology

Beyond detection performance, the FaMeGQ findings reinforce key elements of Picarro's established AMLD methodology. The DVGW evaluation concluded that repeated surveys, robust quality-control procedures and optimized operating conditions are critical to detection reliability. It also found advantages to nighttime surveying and near-ground sampling using multiple sampling nozzles.

These findings align directly with Picarro's deployment model, which combines repeated surveys performed primarily at night with four front-mounted sampling nozzles, high-precision methane and ethane measurements, wind characterization and atmospheric analytics. Picarro also automates data validation and quality assurance, continuously monitoring system health, wind and positioning data and excluding measurements collected outside approved operating conditions.

Supporting Safety and EU Methane Regulation Compliance

The FaMeGQ project comes as the European Methane Regulation (EU Regulation 2024/1787) increases requirements for leak detection and repair inspections. FaMeGQ was designed to determine whether vehicle-based methane measurement technologies can reliably detect leaks while maintaining the high safety standards established within the DVGW framework.

The results demonstrate how advanced mobile measurement can help utilities efficiently scale network inspections while supporting broader methane management objectives. The same measurement data used for leak detection can also support emissions quantification, methane inventory reporting, risk-informed leak prioritization, asset integrity management and capital investment planning.

"Utilities increasingly need to address network safety, methane emissions and regulatory compliance together," added Rongère. "Picarro gives operators the trusted measurement data and actionable intelligence they need to manage all three within a unified approach."

About the FaMeGQ Research Project

The DVGW-funded FaMeGQ research project evaluates methods for vehicle-based methane measurements in response to the European Union's methane regulation and its requirements for more frequent leak detection and repair inspections. The project examines whether vehicle-mounted technologies can reliably detect methane leaks while maintaining established DVGW safety standards, as well as their potential to support methane emissions quantification and measurement, reporting and verification (MRV).

About DVGW

For more than 165 years, DVGW has advanced technical safety and innovation across the gas and water industries. Through its network of experts, institutes and research facilities, DVGW helps identify and advance new technologies, research and industry practices at both the national and international level. Its services and technical guidance continuously evolve to address new technical developments and the changing needs of the gas and water industries.

About Picarro

Picarro is the global leader in Network Intelligence and methane emissions reduction solutions, providing natural gas operators with tools to revolutionize risk management. Its enterprise solution helps increase safety, lower emissions, optimize asset management and reduce costs within a unified framework. With Picarro technology and analytics, operators representing more than 30% of global gas distribution networks have been proactively managing leaks for more than 10 years, prioritizing critical issues, and continuously assessing gas system health and performance for enhanced safety and reduced methane emissions.

Media Contacts:

Francois Rongere  

VP Natural Gas Industry  

Picarro, Inc.   

[email protected]     

Mona Alkindi  

Director, Sales Operations & Communications  

Picarro, Inc.   

[email protected] 

SOURCE Picarro, Inc.

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New data connections, employer integrations and income qualification capabilities give lenders more ways to verify and qualify borrowers

SAN FRANCISCO, Oct. 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Checkr, the AI-powered verification platform for high-stakes decisions, today unveiled its expanded mortgage offering, bringing together income, employment and asset verification with new data and income qualification capabilities. Checkr entered the mortgage market through its 2025 acquisition of Truework and has since strengthened the offering through new data, technology and partnerships.

"Over the past year, we've expanded our mortgage offering to give lenders greater flexibility in how they verify and qualify borrower income," said Randy Lightbody, head of mortgage at Checkr. "By bringing more data and capabilities together under Checkr, we're helping lenders simplify a process that has become increasingly hard to navigate as borrower income continues to change."

The need for better income verification is growing as borrower income becomes more complex and less predictable. Truework's 2026 housing affordability research, based on approximately 300,000 mortgage applicant records, found that the share of applicants experiencing income instability rose from 50% in 2022 to 62% in 2025. The severity of those income swings nearly tripled over the same period.

How Checkr is expanding mortgage verification

To address this growing complexity, Checkr has expanded its mortgage offering with new data, employer connections and income qualification capabilities.

- Acquisition of Truv: In August 2026, Checkr acquired Truv, expanding access to consumer-permissioned payroll and financial data while giving lenders additional ways to verify income, employment and assets directly.

- Partnership with Workday: In September 2026, Checkr partnered with Workday to make verified income and employment information available through Checkr for participating employers, giving lenders another source of verified borrower data while reducing manual work for employers.

- Expansion of income qualification: As income sources become more varied, Checkr is expanding lenders' ability to access and qualify different types of borrower income. That includes self-employment, rental income, and other complex financial profiles, giving lenders a broader view of borrowers' income beyond traditional employment.

Today, Checkr's mortgage offering can verify more than 97% of U.S. workers and has a 75% completion rate. It brings together payroll, bank, employer and document-based data sources, helping lenders access verified information with less manual work. Stifel's 2026 survey of mortgage lenders and processors found that Checkr's mortgage offering accounted for the largest share of verification volume shifting among firms processing more than 100,000 mortgages annually.

"Borrowers don't always have a simple W-2 paycheck anymore, but many verification processes were built around one," said Felicia Lee, head of mortgage solutions and customer success at Checkr. "Lenders need better data and technology to understand different types of income and turn that information into an answer they can use."

"Borrowers don't all fit the traditional paycheck mold, and Checkr is helping us meet them where they are," said Brad Lando, senior vice president of strategic development at Rate. "More data sources and faster verification mean lower costs and less manual work for lenders, while giving our customers more choice and a smoother loan process."

Meet Checkr at MBA Annual

Checkr will showcase its mortgage offering as a Platinum Sponsor at the Mortgage Bankers Association Annual Convention & Expo at the Hyatt Regency Chicago. Attendees can meet with the Checkr team in the Acapulco Room on Ballroom Level West.

To learn more about Checkr's mortgage offering, visit mortgage.checkr.com.

About Checkr

Checkr is the AI-powered verification platform for high-stakes decisions. Checkr AI decodes messy, fragmented, hard-to-verify information about people, and delivers clear answers about a person's identity, background, and credentials. Trusted by more than 140,000 customers globally across employment, government, mortgage, and tenant verifications, Checkr helps businesses and individuals make more confident decisions. Checkr has offices in San Francisco, CA; Denver, CO; and Santiago, Chile. Learn more at checkr.com.

Media Contact

Ellen D. Kiehl

Head of External Communications

[email protected]

SOURCE Checkr, Inc.

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Agreement worth up to $85 million formalizes collaboration with the Department of the Air Force's Office of Commercial and Economic Analysis

WASHINGTON, Oct. 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Strider Technologies, Inc. ("Strider"), the leading provider of strategic intelligence, today announced it has secured a contract worth up to $85 million from the Department of the Air Force. The contract builds on Strider's long-standing work with the Air Force's Office of Commercial and Economic Analysis (OCEA) and formalizes a five-year collaboration focused on protecting American defense innovation from adversarial nation-state risk.

Under the contract, Strider's strategic intelligence will continue to support OCEA's screening of applicants to the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs. These programs channel federal research and development funding to small U.S. businesses developing technologies with defense and commercial potential. That same access to funding, research, and the defense innovation base makes these programs an attractive target for adversarial nation-states that seek to acquire sensitive technology, intellectual property, and talent through undisclosed foreign ties, ownership, and financing.

Strider's strategic intelligence, rooted in open-source data and transformed using advanced AI and proprietary risk methodology, enables OCEA to identify foreign ownership, control, and influence risks across applicants, their key personnel, and their networks before awards are made. This allows the Air Force to move innovation forward quickly while safeguarding taxpayer investment and the integrity of the defense industrial base.

Beyond SBIR and STTR screening, the contract is also designed to grow alongside evolving mission needs, giving the Air Force a ready foundation to extend Strider's strategic intelligence to additional mission areas.

"The PRC and other nation-states are targeting the startups and researchers building the technologies that will define future military advantage," said Greg Levesque, CEO and Co-Founder of Strider. "This contract reflects years of trusted partnership with OCEA and gives the Department of War a scalable way to protect that innovation at speed. Small businesses are the engine of American defense innovation. We are proud to help ensure that federal investment strengthens U.S. capability, not our competitors'."

"Programs like SBIR and STTR are only as strong as the trust behind every award," said Rob Turner, Vice President of Government at Strider. "Adversarial nation-states are working at an unprecedented scale to embed themselves in the defense innovation base through hidden ownership, financing, and personnel ties. Strider gives decision-makers clear, actionable intelligence to spot those risks early and act with confidence."

About Strider

Strider is the leading strategic intelligence company empowering organizations to secure and advance their technology and innovation. Leveraging cutting-edge AI technology alongside proprietary methodologies, Strider transforms open-source data into critical insights. It has operations in 16 countries around the globe with offices in Salt Lake City, Utah; Washington, DC; London; Tokyo; and Sydney.

SOURCE Strider Technologies, Inc.

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New proprietary movements, technologies and designs advance Accutron's vision for watchmaking and expand the ways to experience the brand

NEW YORK, Oct. 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Accutron, the American watchmaker that revolutionized timekeeping with its tuning fork movement in 1960 and redefined it once again with its electrostatic movement in 2020, unveils its Fall/Winter 2026 collection — a comprehensive expression of the brand's past, present, and future. Spanning four proprietary movements and a wider range of designs and price points than ever before, the collection introduces groundbreaking new technologies while bringing Accutron's legacy of innovation to a new generation of enthusiasts, from seasoned collectors to first-time luxury watch buyers.

This season, Accutron expands its portfolio with two new movements, the master complication and resonator, while building on its iconic tuning fork collection with new designs that pay homage to the originals.

FOUR PROPRIETARY MOVEMENTS DEFINE ACCUTRON'S NEXT CHAPTER

Through new movements, product collections and designs, Accutron's Fall/Winter 2026 assortment invites broader audiences to experience the innovation, craftsmanship and design that have defined the brand for over 65 years.

"We're expanding the ways consumers can experience Accutron through a broader range of technologies, designs and price points," said Jeffrey Cohen, President of Citizen Watch America. "Bringing together four proprietary movements, this collection reflects both the legacy that defines our brand and the innovation that continues to drive it forward."

THE PINNACLE OF WATCHMAKING: ACCUTRON HORIZON

Representing the pinnacle of Accutron's Fall/Winter 2026 assortment, the Accutron Horizon is powered by the brand's new master complication movement, bringing together a chronograph, minute repeater, perpetual calendar, moonphase and day/night indicator with three sandstone subdials set against a Denchu base.

The Accutron Horizon starts at $2,190.

INTRODUCING THE RESONATOR ERA: ACCUTRON ELEVATION AND MEMPHIS 521

Accutron debuts its new resonator movement, powered by a three-prong tuning-fork-shaped crystal vibrating at 262 kHz — eight times the frequency of traditional quartz for accuracy within seconds per year. The technology launches in two distinct expressions: the modern sport-luxury Accutron Elevation and the heritage-inspired Memphis 521, a revival of one of the brand's iconic TV-shaped silhouettes from the 1960s.

The Accutron Elevation starts at $1,550, while the Memphis 521 starts at $1,650.

THE RETURN OF AN ICON: ALPHA 314 AND SPACEVIEW 314

Building on the return of Accutron's legendary tuning fork movement, the collection expands with the Alpha 314, featuring its distinctive shield-shaped case and new Spaceview 314 models in 904L steel or Grade 5 titanium. A faithful tribute to the original, the collection preserves its iconic design while introducing modern enhancements, including Silicium and Elinvar for greater efficiency and durability. Meticulously hand-assembled and finished with traditional techniques, the Spaceview 314 revives the signature hum and unmistakable character of the original.

The Alpha 314 and Spaceview 314 are available starting at $5,990.

The Accutron Fall/Winter 2026 collection will be available this October at authorized Accutron retailers and online at Accutron.com.

About Accutron

Since introducing the world's first fully electronic watch in 1960, Accutron has led the evolution of precision timekeeping through groundbreaking engineering and design. Today, the brand continues its legacy by developing proprietary movements that push the boundaries of modern watchmaking. From the tuning fork movement to electrostatic, resonator, and master complication calibers, every Accutron timepiece reflects exceptional craftsmanship, technical ingenuity, and an unwavering pursuit of precision. Guided by a spirit of innovation and inspired by what's next, Accutron continues to shape the future of horology.

SOURCE Accutron

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American Hartford Gold Acquires Assets of Rosland Capital in Major Expansion

Nation's largest physical gold and silver retailer strengthens its market leadership and brings expanded resources to Rosland Capital clients

LOS ANGELES, Oct. 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- American Hartford Gold (AHG), the nation's largest retailer of physical gold and silver, today announced its acquisition of Rosland Capital's assets, marking a major expansion of its national reach and reinforcing its position at the forefront of the precious metals industry.

With over $4 billion in precious metals delivered and tens of thousands of clients served nationwide, American Hartford Gold has built the scale and service capabilities to fuel its continued growth. Acquiring Rosland Capital's assets brings AHG's extensive resources and dedicated client support to a broader audience of Americans.

"American Hartford Gold has earned its place as the nation's largest gold and silver retailer by delivering for our clients," said Sanford Mann, CEO of American Hartford Gold. "Acquiring Rosland Capital's assets is a major step forward in our expansion and a clear expression of our confidence in the future of this industry. We are building on a record of over $4 billion in precious metals delivered, and we intend to keep setting the standard for what Americans should expect from their precious metals company."

In a crowded industry, American Hartford Gold's acquisition of Rosland Capital's assets further strengthens its position as the market leader. AHG has invested in expanded fulfillment capabilities, new office locations, and specialist training to ensure its resources keep pace with its growing market dominance. For Rosland Capital clients, choosing AHG means working with an experienced company equipped to deliver dependable service, personalized guidance, and ongoing support for their precious metals needs.

AHG's record of growth is matched by a reputation for client satisfaction. The company holds an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, has earned thousands of 5-star customer reviews, and has received repeated recognition on the Inc. 5000 list of America's fastest-growing private companies.

"For Rosland clients, choosing AHG means having the resources of the country's largest physical gold and silver retailer behind them," said Max Baecker, President of American Hartford Gold. "We understand that people are trusting us with decisions that affect their savings and retirement. They deserve a company with the experience to guide them, the capacity to serve them, and a team that answers when they call. We are proud to bring that level of commitment to every client we welcome."

Rosland Capital clients will have access to AHG's broad selection of physical gold and silver, Gold IRA education, and personalized assistance from precious metals specialists. AHG also offers competitive pricing and a buyback commitment with no back-end fees, supporting clients throughout their precious metals ownership.

"The ability to pursue an acquisition of this scale reflects the business we have built and our disciplined approach to growth," said Robert Leff, CFO of American Hartford Gold. "Our focus is on putting AHG's resources to work for clients while supporting an orderly transition. We see a substantial opportunity to expand our presence while preserving the service standards that have earned our clients' trust."

American Hartford Gold has established a dedicated service line for Rosland Capital clients at 866-767-3916. The company's team is ready to answer questions and help clients understand the services and support available to them.

The acquisition builds on American Hartford Gold's continued growth, bringing the resources of the nation's largest physical gold and silver retailer to more Americans seeking to diversify their savings and retirement portfolios.

American Hartford Gold will not be assuming liability for any obligations of Rosland Capital.

To learn more about how to buy gold or open a Gold IRA, visit www.americanhartfordgold.com, call 866-342-2257, or download the American Hartford Gold app.

About American Hartford Gold

American Hartford Gold is the nation's largest retailer of physical gold and silver, helping clients protect their savings with precious metals. The company offers a wide selection of IRA-eligible gold and silver coins and bars, along with Gold IRA services designed to help Americans diversify their retirement portfolios. AHG holds an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau and has earned thousands of 5-star customer reviews and multiple appearances on the Inc. 5000 list of America's fastest-growing private companies. The company is committed to transparency, customer education, and personalized service.

Media Contact:

Hovik Bakhrdzhyan, American Hartford Gold, (424) 387-4130, [email protected], https://www.americanhartfordgold.com

SOURCE American Hartford Gold Group

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READING, Pa., Oct. 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The 2027 Third-Party Logistics Study, released today in conjunction with the annual Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP) EDGE conference, once again tackles timely topics in the U.S. supply chain that includes AI, strategic partnerships and resilience.

Dr. John Langley, emeritus professor at the University of Tennessee, is the study's founder and creator. It is supported by Penske Logistics and NTT DATA.

Each year, the research provides a deeper dive into the current state of the 3PL market and tackles contemporary issues. Supply chain leaders complete a survey to provide a better understanding of the landscape.

The forward-looking publication features these special supply chain sections: AI adoption; strategic partnerships facilitated by alignment and collaboration; resilience and risk mitigation in shipper and 3PL relationships; and freight fraud and cargo theft.

The study is now available for download at www.3PLStudy.com.

Key takeaways from the 2027 3PL Study:

- AI is here now. AI adoption is well embedded in supply chain operational planning and execution. Shippers are using it for predictive analytics and risk planning at a higher rate (66%) when compared with 3PLs (43%). Third-party providers are using it for generative AI, machine learning, optimization and autonomous decision making. A few barriers to wider spread adoption include data quality and availability (61%), legacy system integration (54%), and budget constraints (46%).

- The right strategic partnerships can benefit both the shipper and the 3PL. Shippers, in 39% of responses, noted that their outsourced logistics expenditures are connected to strategic partnerships with 3PLs, and 3PLs stated that 54% of their revenues are linked to strategic partnerships with their customers. What are important components for shippers? Trust and open communication sit atop the list, followed by operational excellence and agility.

- Supply chain resilience is now a core strategic capability. Transportation capacity disruptions are top-of-mind for shippers and 3PLs by an overwhelming margin. Shippers are combating disruptions via network flexibility, which includes multi-carrier and multi-modal strategies, alternative sourcing and inventory buffering. The 3PLs are placing a stronger emphasis on cybersecurity risks than shippers are, by a 42% to 29% margin.

- Freight fraud is more concerning for both the shipper and the 3PL. About 69% of 3PLs are extremely satisfied with technology defenses against freight theft, with only 36% of shippers feeling as confident in this area. A key solution can be found in the area of technology, but the study found that process discipline is still key, which is challenged when the supply chain is tasked with speedier shipments.

Dr. Langley stated: "This year's 3PL Study examines several topics that are of significant, critical interest to managing domestic and global supply chains."

Vishwa Ram, vice president data science and analytics for Penske Logistics noted: "This year's 3PL study has some excellent insights on the use of technology, particularly with artificial intelligence, that can help accelerate a shipper's supply chain performance."

"The study shows data quality and legacy integration remain the top barriers to scaling AI, and that should be a wake-up call. The technology is ready — what's lagging is the foundation underneath it," said Jonathan Whitaker, managing director supply chain consulting, NTT DATA, Inc. "Organizations that treat data and systems as strategic infrastructure, not an afterthought, will be the ones that turn AI from a pilot into a competitive advantage."

NTT DATA is a $30+ billion business and technology services leader, serving 75% of the Fortune Global 100. We are committed to accelerating client success and positively impacting society through responsible innovation. We are one of the world's leading AI and digital infrastructure providers, with unmatched capabilities in enterprise-scale AI, cloud, security, connectivity, data centers and application services. Our consulting and industry solutions help organizations and society move confidently and sustainably into the digital future. As a Global Top Employer, we have experts in more than 70 countries. We also offer clients access to a robust ecosystem of innovation centers as well as established and start-up partners. NTT DATA is part of NTT Group, which invests over $3 billion each year in R&D. Visit us at nttdata.com

Penske Logistics is a Penske Transportation Solutions company headquartered in Reading, Pennsylvania. The company is a leading provider of innovative supply chain and logistics solutions. Penske offers solutions including dedicated transportation, distribution center management, 4PL and lead logistics, transportation management, freight brokerage, and a comprehensive array of technologies to keep the world moving forward. Visit PenskeLogistics.com to learn more.

SOURCE Penske Logistics

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Hines Law Expands Into Tennessee With New Brentwood Office for Personal Injury Clients

Georgia Firm Formerly Known as the Law Offices of Matthew C. Hines Unveils New Name and Tennessee Location

BRENTWOOD, Tenn., Oct. 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Hines Law, formerly known as the Law Offices of Matthew C. Hines, announces the opening of its new office in Brentwood, Tennessee, marking the firm's first expansion into the Volunteer State. Located at 105 Westpark Drive, Suite 355, the Brentwood office gives Tennessee residents closer access to experienced personal injury counsel for car accidents, trucking accidents, wrongful death, and other serious injury cases caused by negligence. The expansion coincides with the firm's official rebrand to Hines Law, a name that reflects its growing regional presence across Georgia and now Tennessee. For more information about the firm and its new Tennessee location, visit https://hineslaw.org/.

"We are pleased to represent clients throughout Brentwood, Tennessee, across personal injury, workers' compensation, and criminal defense matters," said Matthew C. Hines, Founder of Hines Law. Brentwood, a fast-growing suburb nine miles south of Nashville in Williamson County, positions Hines Law to serve clients throughout Middle Tennessee.

Serving Injured Tennesseans in Brentwood, Nashville, and Williamson County

The Brentwood office will focus on personal injury matters, helping individuals and families pursue the compensation they deserve after serious accidents on the region's busy highways and interstates, including crashes involving commercial trucks. Consistent with the firm's approach in Georgia, clients in Tennessee will receive attentive, bilingual service in English and Spanish, along with free consultations. The Brentwood location joins the firm's established Georgia offices in Austell, Atlanta, Marietta, Gainesville, Fayetteville, Dalton, and Norcross, extending the firm's reach across the Southeast. Learn more about the firm's practice areas, including personal injury, workers' compensation, and criminal defense.

A New Name for a Growing Firm

Alongside its expansion, the firm has officially rebranded from the Law Offices of Matthew C. Hines to Hines Law. The new name offers clients a simpler, more recognizable identity while preserving the values that have defined the firm since its founding: knowledgeable legal counsel, commitment to clients, and effective solutions that help people move forward with their lives. Clients and community partners can continue to reach the firm through the same offices, attorneys, and phone numbers they know and trust.

About Hines Law

Hines Law is a personal injury, workers' compensation, and criminal defense law firm headquartered in Austell, Georgia, serving English- and Spanish-speaking clients throughout Georgia and Tennessee. With offices in Austell, Atlanta, Marietta, Gainesville, Fayetteville, Dalton, Norcross, and Brentwood, Tennessee, the firm has recovered millions of dollars for clients injured in car accidents, trucking accidents, workplace incidents, and other serious injury cases caused by negligence. Hines Law offers free consultations and is available 24/7.

SOURCE Hines Law

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Mercury Insurance Warns AI Voice Cloning Is Making Impersonation Scams Harder to Spot

LOS ANGELES, Oct. 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- A frantic phone call from a child, spouse or parent asking for money can trigger an immediate instinct to help. But with artificial intelligence making it easier for criminals to imitate a person's voice, consumers may need to stop and verify who is really on the other end of the line.

With October being CyberSecurity Awareness Month, Mercury Insurance (NYSE/NYSE TX: MCY) is encouraging consumers to recognize the growing threat of AI-powered impersonation scams and take simple steps to protect themselves and their families. According to the FBI's 2025 Internet Crime Report, more than 22,000 complaints involving artificial intelligence resulted in nearly $893 million in reported losses. The FBI has identified voice cloning and other forms of AI-generated content among the tools criminals are using to make scams more convincing.

"Scammers have always relied on urgency and emotion, but AI can make those tactics much more believable," said Dustin Howard, Head of Information Security at Mercury Insurance. "Hearing what sounds like the voice of someone you love can cause you to react before you have time to question what you're hearing. That feeling is exactly what the scammer is counting on."

When a Familiar Voice May Not Be Familiar

Voice-cloning technology can create realistic speech using samples of a person's voice. Audio publicly available through social media videos, podcasts and other online content may provide material that can be used to imitate someone.

A criminal may then call a family member while posing as a child, grandchild, spouse or other loved one and claim there has been an accident, arrest or other emergency. The caller may demand money immediately and insist that the victim not contact anyone else.

Consumers should treat those demands as warning signs, even when the voice sounds convincing.

"Your ears alone may no longer be enough to verify someone's identity," Howard said. "Families should have another way to confirm that the person calling is really who they claim to be."

Create a Family Verification Plan

Mercury recommends families discuss impersonation scams before one happens and establish a simple verification process.

Create a family safe word or phrase. Choose something family members can use to verify their identity during an unexpected or suspicious call. Avoid information that could easily be found online.

Hang up and call back. Contact the family member directly using a phone number you already know rather than a number provided by the caller.

Turn on video: if possible, use video calling by using Facetime or other technologies that allow video calling. Look for choppy video, blurred edges, unnatural blending, and even disappearing body parts in the video. If they refuse to or cannot turn on video, that should be suspicious.

Ask a personal question. If circumstances allow, ask something the real person should know but that would not be readily available through social media or public information.

Don't trust caller ID. Phone numbers and caller names can be spoofed, so a familiar number appearing on the screen should not be considered proof of identity.

Slow down urgent requests. Be especially cautious when someone demands immediate payment through wire transfer, cryptocurrency, gift cards or other difficult-to-reverse methods.

Limit publicly available personal information. Review privacy settings and consider how much personal information, including audio and video, is publicly accessible through social media accounts.

Verify before sending money. Never transfer money or provide financial information solely because of an incoming phone call, text message or video. Never send money to contact information, like email or phone number, you don't already know for that loved one.

Make "Stop, Verify, Then Act" a Family Rule

Impersonation scams are effective because they create pressure to act quickly. Families can reduce that advantage by agreeing in advance that unexpected requests for money or sensitive information will always be independently verified.

"Taking an extra minute to make another phone call can make all the difference," Howard said. "If someone tells you there's an emergency and you can't hang up, can't contact anyone else or have to send money immediately, that's a reason to become more cautious, not less. The more urgent the request is, the more suspicious it should be."

Consumers who believe they have been targeted should contact their financial institution immediately if money or account information was provided, change potentially compromised passwords and report suspected fraud to appropriate authorities.

Mercury customers may also have access to protections designed to help address certain cyber-related risks. Mercury's Home Cyber Protection coverage can provide protection for eligible losses involving online fraud, cyber extortion and other covered cyber events. Identity Management Services can also help when identity-related fraud occurs. Consumers should speak with their insurance agent to understand available coverage, limits and exclusions.

"Technology will continue to change, and scams will change with it, getting more and more complex every day," Howard said. "The best defense is having a Family Verification Plan and using this plan in your family's routine. Trust but verify; trust the person you love but verify that the person contacting you is actually them. Stop, verify, THEN act."

For information about cybersecurity, visit the Mercury Insurance Resource Center.

About Mercury Insurance

Mercury Insurance (NYSE/NYSE TX: MCY) is a multiple-line insurance carrier predominantly offering personal auto, homeowners, renters and commercial insurance through a network of independent agents in Arizona, California, Georgia, Illinois, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Oklahoma, Texas and Virginia, as well as auto insurance in Florida. Mercury writes other lines of insurance in various states, including commercial, business owners and business auto, landlord, home-sharing, ride-hailing and mechanical protection insurance.

Since 1962, Mercury has provided customers with tremendous value for their insurance dollar by pairing ultra-competitive rates with excellent customer service, through more than 4,200 employees and a network of more than 6,340 independent agents in 11 states. Mercury has earned an "A" rating from A.M. Best, as well as "Best Auto Insurance Company" designations from Forbes and Insure.com. For more information visit www.MercuryInsurance.com or follow the company on LinkedIn, Instagram or Facebook.

Media interested in receiving updates from Mercury can learn more at the Mercury Newsroom.

SOURCE Mercury Insurance

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ORLANDO, Fla., Oct. 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- D3Energy, a U.S. floating solar developer and EPC contractor, announced the successful deployment of its floating photovoltaic system at Universal Epic Universe.

The 1.4 MW floating solar system was energized earlier this year and now operates as part of the new theme park's broader renewable energy program. It is one of three on-site solar installations totaling 3.7 MW across Epic Universe. The overall solar program was managed by Qcells, with D3Energy responsible for the floating solar portion.

According to Universal, the three solar installations are expected to generate more than 6.7 million kilowatt-hours of electricity annually, enough to power more than 900 homes. Epic Universe becomes the first theme park to achieve LEED Platinum certification under LEED for Communities: Plan and Design.

The floating solar system creates a compelling link between renewable energy generation, battery storage and electric transportation. The array generates power for the park's electric bus fleet, with energy stored in batteries during the day and used to charge Universal's electric buses at night, demonstrating how multiple clean-energy technologies can work together to form a comprehensive energy strategy.

This marks D3Energy's second floating solar project for Universal Orlando Resort, following a system completed at Universal's main Orlando campus in 2021. Both projects utilize Ciel & Terre's Hydrelio® technology, bringing the same proven platform to two Universal Orlando campuses.

"We're proud to continue our relationship with Universal Orlando through a second floating solar project," said Stetson Tchividjian, Managing Director of D3Energy. "Universal continues to lead the way in sustainability across the theme park industry, and it's exciting to see floating solar integrated into one of the most innovative destinations in the world."

"We also appreciate Qcells' leadership in managing the overall solar program and the opportunity to deliver the floating solar component alongside their team," Tchividjian added.

The Epic Universe project highlights the growing role floating solar can play in maximizing existing infrastructure and expanding renewable energy generation without requiring additional land. For D3Energy, it represents another high-profile application of floating solar at a major U.S. destination and demonstrates the continued adoption of the technology nationwide.

About D3Energy

D3Energy is a U.S. leader in floating photovoltaics (FPV), having built more than half of all systems operating in the United States. Working exclusively in FPV, D3Energy partners with utilities, municipalities, and private enterprises to bring solar online without consuming land. Visit www.d3energy.com.

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SOURCE D3Energy

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Milestone marks 20 years of conservation efforts to recover one of North America's most endangered mammals

SAN DIEGO, Oct. 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance has helped establish a third reintroduced population of endangered Pacific pocket mice at North San Mateo, a training area within Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton.

The milestone comes as San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance celebrates 20 years of conservation efforts to recover Pacific pocket mice in Southern California. Since launching its Pacific Pocket Mouse Conservation Program in 2006, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance has released more than 500 Pacific pocket mice into new and existing populations throughout the species' native range.

"Establishing this new population of Pacific pocket mice at Camp Pendleton is an exciting step toward the species' recovery," said Debra Shier, Ph.D., Brown Endowed Associate Director of Recovery Ecology at San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance. "Pacific pocket mice are ecosystem engineers, and their impact goes far beyond their small size. By digging their burrows, they help improve soil hydrology and nutrient cycling, while their burrows provide shelter for other species. Establishing another population helps bring these important ecological functions back to the coastal ecosystems where Pacific pocket mice naturally occur."

The Pacific pocket mouse is the smallest and one of the most endangered mammals in North America, measuring about the size of a human thumb and weighing approximately as much as three pennies. Once thought to be extinct, the species was rediscovered in 1993 when a small remnant population was found in Orange County. Following its rediscovery and emergency listing under the federal Endangered Species Act, conservationists began working to prevent the Pacific pocket mouse from disappearing again. Today, only three original populations persist in the wild, and the species remains an important part of Southern California's coastal ecosystems.

In 2006, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance launched its Pacific Pocket Mouse Conservation Program to help recover the species throughout Southern California. Since then, the program has advanced scientific understanding of Pacific pocket mice and developed conservation strategies to protect existing populations, restore habitat, and establish new ones. In 2012, the program added a conservation breeding effort to produce genetically diverse and behaviorally competent mice for release into their native habitat.

The first reintroduced population was established in Laguna Coast Wilderness Park in Orange County in 2016. A second was established at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton in 2024. The new population at North San Mateo represents the third reintroduced population established through the collaborative conservation program.

The effort is part of a collaborative partnership between San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, California Department of Fish and Wildlife, U.S. Geological Survey, and Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton. Together, the organizations have worked to protect and grow Pacific pocket mouse populations, restore and manage habitat, and develop the scientific knowledge needed to support the species' recovery.

PRESS ROOM:https://sandiegozoo.box.com/s/t1wor5swj9haf05z5oylcplu9c8jzrvd

Link includes:

- Photos and b-roll of the Pacific pocket mouse reintroduction

About San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, a nonprofit conservation leader, inspires passion for nature and collaboration for a healthier world. The Alliance supports innovative conservation science through global partnerships and groundbreaking efforts at the world-famous San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park, both leading zoological institutions and accredited botanical gardens. Through wildlife care expertise, cutting-edge science and continued collaboration, more than 44 endangered species have been reintroduced to native habitats. The Alliance reaches over 1 billion people annually through its two conservation parks and media channels in 170 countries, including San Diego Zoo Wildlife Explorers television, available in children's hospitals across 14 countries. Wildlife Allies—members, donors and guests—make success possible.

PRESS KIT:https://sandiegozoo.box.com/s/t1wor5swj9haf05z5oylcplu9c8jzrvd

SOURCE San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance

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