A New Article Examines the Differences Between Villas, Cottages, and Single-Family Homes to Help Buyers Find the Right Fit on Kiawah Island.

KIAWAH ISLAND, S.C., Oct. 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- How do buyers decide between villas, cottages, and single-family homes on Kiawah Island? HelloNation has published an article that answers that question by walking prospective buyers through the practical differences between each property type and the ownership experience each one offers.

The HelloNation article explains that villas are among the most popular choices for second-home buyers on Kiawah Island. Because villas are typically part of a managed community, exterior maintenance, landscaping, and common areas are handled by a homeowners association. The article notes that this structure appeals to buyers who plan to visit seasonally and prefer not to manage ongoing upkeep from a distance. Villas are also often situated close to amenities such as pools, tennis courts, and beach access points, which adds convenience for shorter stays.

The article is straightforward about the tradeoffs that come with villa ownership. Units share walls or buildings with neighbors, and outdoor space is generally limited to a balcony or small patio. For buyers who spend extended time on the island or who need room for family gatherings, that arrangement can feel restrictive. Buyers who visit frequently and stay for longer stretches may find that single-family homes on Kiawah Island offer a level of space and privacy that villas cannot match.

Single-family homes represent the other end of the property spectrum, according to the article. They offer the most square footage, private outdoor space, and separation from neighboring properties. Many sit on wooded lots, lagoon-front settings, or along fairways, providing a sense of seclusion that is difficult to find in a shared building. The real estate agent featured in the article notes that for buyers who want to fully settle into the Kiawah Island experience or who entertain regularly, a single-family home tends to be the stronger fit.

The article also addresses the added responsibility that comes with single-family ownership. Owners manage their own maintenance, landscaping, and property systems, which can add complexity and cost for part-time residents. The article notes that many owners address this by working with a local property management company, though that adds to the overall expense of ownership and is worth factoring into the budget from the start.

Cottages are presented in the article as a middle-ground option that appeals to a specific buyer profile. They are typically detached or semi-detached structures, smaller than a full single-family home but offering more privacy than a villa. Some cottage communities include shared amenities and association management, while others operate more independently. For buyers who want a private feel without the full footprint of a larger home, the article describes cottages as a practical option worth considering among the property types Kiawah Island has available.

The HelloNation article frames the decision between property types around three practical questions: how often the buyer plans to visit, how much upkeep they are willing to manage, and what kind of experience they want during their time on the island. A buyer who visits a few weeks a year may find that a low-maintenance villa suits that pattern well, while a buyer spending months on the island has more reason to prioritize space and privacy.

The real estate agent featured in the article recommends working with a local professional who is familiar with all three categories and can walk buyers through specific examples, pricing history, and resale comparisons across property types.

Villas, Cottages, and Single-Family Homes on Kiawah Island: How Buyers Can Compare features insights from Andy Herring, a Real Estate Agent of Kiawah Island, South Carolina, in HelloNation.

About HelloNation

HelloNation is a premier media platform that connects readers with trusted professionals and businesses across various industries. Through its innovative "edvertising" approach that blends educational content with storytelling, HelloNation delivers expert-driven, good-news articles that inform, inspire, and empower. Covering topics from home improvement and health to business strategy and lifestyle, HelloNation highlights leaders making a meaningful impact in their communities.

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To them, recognition comes as the intranet evolves from a place employees get information to one that helps them get work done.

REDWOOD CITY, Calif., Oct. 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Simpplr, the AI-powered intranet for unifying the digital workplace, today announced that Gartner has positioned Simpplr as a Leader in the 2026 Gartner® Magic Quadrant™ for Intranet Packaged Solutions. This marks the fourth consecutive year Simpplr has been named a Leader.

The recognition comes as the role of the intranet is rapidly changing. Employees still need clear, trusted communications. Increasingly, they also need one place to find answers, access services, and take action across a fragmented digital workplace.

"Four years ago, this category was largely about helping employees find information and stay connected. That still matters. But the problem has gotten bigger," said Dhiraj Sharma, CEO of Simpplr. "Work has become more complex, with more systems, more information, and now more AI. Employees shouldn't have to navigate all of that complexity just to get something done. That's the problem we're building Simpplr to solve."

[Get complimentary access to the 2026 Gartner® Magic Quadrant™ report]

Simpplr believes its continued recognition reflects both the evolution of its platform and its focus on translating innovation into practical value for customers. The company identifies emerging buyer and technology trends and turns them into delivered innovation, most recently advancing AI for employee communications and governance. Simpplr pairs that with a structured customer engagement model built to accelerate time-to-value, including standardized delivery, dedicated Customer Success Managers, and embedded adoption.

"For us, Simpplr's continued recognition as a Leader in the Gartner Magic Quadrant is a testament to their commitment to innovation and customer success," says Wyatt Semanek, Director of Corporate Communications at Sunrun. "The platform has been instrumental in enhancing employee engagement and productivity across our diverse workforce."

From information to action

The next generation of the intranet has to do more than publish information. It has to help employees use it.

In the accompanying 2026 Gartner Critical Capabilities for Intranet Packaged Solutions, Gartner recognizes Simpplr and ranks them across Use Cases including Knowledge Services, Employee & Workplace Services, and Work Management.

Simpplr brings trusted information and everyday action closer together. Enterprise search and Smart Answers help employees find what they need. EX Agent provides conversational self-service and guided next steps. App Tiles consolidate operational systems into role-specific mini-apps that centralize actionable tasks such as scheduling, training, and service requests.

The result is a simpler path from question to outcome — without requiring employees to know where information lives, which system owns a process or what application comes next.

AI built for how work actually happens

As work becomes more complex, the employee experience shouldn't.

Simpplr embeds AI across the employee experience rather than treating it as another tool employees have to seek out. AI-powered search, assistants, agents, personalization and automation help employees find answers, access services and take action, while capabilities such as AI Control Center and Agent Studio give IT teams governance over knowledge, permissions, and actions.

That experience extends across office, distributed, and frontline workforces. Simpplr's mobile-first capabilities, shared-device support, one-time passwords and granular access controls — helping employees access trusted knowledge, communications, and services wherever work happens.

The goal is simple: use AI to make work easier for employees, while keeping the complexity of enterprise systems behind the scenes.

Complimentary access to the 2026 Gartner Magic Quadrant for Intranet Packaged Solutions is available at [LINK].

About Simpplr

Simpplr is the AI-powered intranet for unifying the digital workplace. It brings communications, knowledge, services and AI together in one personalized employee experience, helping people find trusted information, get help and take action without navigating the complexity behind the scenes.

Simpplr enables organizations to plan and orchestrate communications across web, mobile, email, newsletters, chat and digital signage, with AI supporting planning, content creation, targeting, governance and measurement.

More than 1,000 organizations — including AAA, the NHS, Penske and Moderna — trust Simpplr to keep their workforce informed, aligned and connected. Learn more at simpplr.com.

Gartner disclaimer

Gartner®, Magic Quadrant:tm: for Intranet Packaged Solutions, Mike Gotta, Helen Poitevin, Alexandra Earl, 29 September 2026.

Gartner and Magic Quadrant are trademarks of Gartner, Inc. and/or its affiliates. All rights reserved. Magic Quadrant is a registered trademark of Gartner, Inc. and/or its affiliates and is used herein with permission. All rights reserved. Gartner does not endorse any vendor, product or service depicted in its research publications, and does not advise technology users to select only those vendors with the highest ratings or other designation. Gartner research publications consist of the opinions of Gartner's research organization and should not be construed as statements of fact.

Gartner disclaims all warranties, expressed or implied, with respect to this research, including any warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. This graphic was published by Gartner, Inc. as part of a larger research document and should be evaluated in the context of the entire document. The Gartner document is available upon request from Simpplr.

Media contact

Carolyn Clark

VP, Communications and EX Strategy

Simpplr

[email protected]

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NOVI, Mich., Oct. 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- WZC Networking marks its 20th anniversary this year, reflecting two decades of designing, installing, and testing the in-building radio systems that keep firefighters and EMS crews connected when they move inside a structure. When a radio goes silent inside a building, a crew loses contact with command at the moment communication matters most. That's the gap WZC was built to close.

In 2006, RF engineer John Wierzgac founded WZC around an uncomplicated truth: concrete and steel might block a fire, but they shouldn't choke out a distress call. Twenty years later, WZC has become Michigan's benchmark for Emergency Responder Communication Enhancement Systems (ERCES) and Public Safety DAS. We don't sit back and wait for signal drops to expose a blind spot. Instead, we pull up a chair with developers, fire chiefs, and inspectors long before the first antenna hits the roof, wiring absolute reliability directly into the blueprint.

Buildings have radically evolved since 2006. Thick concrete and low-E glass save energy, but they block radio signals, creating dead zones in stairwells, basements, and interior corridors where portable radios lose contact with the outside. Where a building cannot meet the coverage thresholds required under NFPA 1225 and IFC Section 510, as adopted locally, an ERCES is required. WZC treats that coverage as a life-safety system rather than a permit item, and looks for blind spots in design rather than at the certificate-of-occupancy inspection.

A Building Days from Opening, and a Signal That Wasn't There

Days before the Corewell Health Endoscopy Center was set to open, acceptance testing identified insufficient in-building radio coverage, putting the fire marshal's sign-off and the facility's certificate of occupancy at risk with a fixed opening date approaching.

The Christman Group brought in WZC Networking. The team designed a compliant solution, expedited equipment procurement, and produced documented test results that satisfied the fire marshal and supported the issuance of a temporary certificate of occupancy, allowing the facility to open on schedule while the permanent system was completed.

It's the kind of save that never makes headlines because it isn't supposed to happen at all. A healthcare facility opened on time. A general contractor learned who to call before groundbreaking on the next project, not after a failed test threatens the finish line. That's why Christman looks to WZC first now: not because of a sales pitch, but because the work held up when the schedule had no room left.

Fifty-One Percent, Not Even Close to Enough

At Clawson Manor Co-op, a 15-story senior living complex, energy-efficient glazing and heavy exterior cladding were severely attenuating public safety radio frequencies. A WZC Networking survey found that only 51 percent of the property met required signal thresholds. In the egress corridors, where reliable communication is critical during an emergency, that figure dropped to just 34 percent. For hundreds of elderly residents who cannot evacuate rapidly during a crisis, those gaps could have left arriving crews without reliable communications.

WZC engineered and installed a signal booster and distributed antenna system sized for the building's envelope. On re-test, the property passed in 100 percent of tested grid areas, exceeding the thresholds required under NFPA 1225 and IFC Section 510 as adopted locally. Clawson Fire Department Battalion Chief and Fire Marshal John Ruthenbeck noted, "The City of Clawson was more than satisfied with the design and installation of the system by WZC Networking and the professional service provided to both the residents of the Clawson Manor and the Clawson Fire/Police and EMS Agencies."

Nobody on the Other End of That Radio Is Replaceable

Behind each of these projects are people who aren't statistics. At Clawson Manor, there are several hundred residents who cannot evacuate quickly on their own. At Corewell Health, there are patients under sedation and the staff responsible for getting them out.

When fire marshals deny an occupancy permit, the code is not the end goal. Protecting the people inside the building is. WZC operates on one inviolable principle: no contractor's deadline and no construction budget is worth a human life. A wall should only ever shelter people, never cut them off from the communication that could save them.

Passing Once Is Not Compliance

WZC makes one point clear to owners and facility managers: an ERCES is not finished at commissioning. NFPA 1225 requires ongoing inspection and testing of these systems, covering donor signal, amplifier gain, alarm reporting, and battery backup performance, along with periodic verification of in-building coverage. Buildings and the RF environment around them change over time, and a system that passed when it was commissioned may not perform the same way years later. Responsibility for maintaining that compliance sits with the building owner.

In practice, a system that passed at turnover and has not been touched in four years is a system nobody can vouch for. WZC provides ongoing ERCES inspection, testing, and documentation programs so owners maintain current, AHJ-ready records rather than discovering a lapse during an inspection or, worse, during an incident.

Twenty Years, One Principle

Earlier this year, WZC hosted fire chiefs and fire marshals for an open workshop on ERCES field conditions, focused on education rather than a product pitch. "Twenty years in, it still comes down to the same thing," says founder John Wierzgac. "A radio has to work on every floor and in every stairwell, not just in the lobby. If it doesn't, the system isn't finished, whether or not anyone is inspecting it that day."

That principle drives every project WZC takes on, from healthcare clinics to senior living centers. First responders don't view emergency communication as code compliance; they see equipment they have to be able to depend on. That focus has not changed as WZC has expanded. "Most of the buildings we walk into were never designed with radio coverage in mind," says Nate Wierzgac, Chief Operating Officer. "Nobody asks the question early, so it surfaces at the end, when it is expensive to fix. We would rather be in that conversation during design, and we would rather owners know the testing obligation doesn't stop at turnover."

From a Novi startup to a multi-state partner, WZC Networking has built its practice one building, one grid test, and one clear channel at a time, so that when the call comes, it carries.

WZC Networking is an RF engineering and technology integration firm founded in 2006 in Novi, Michigan. WZC designs, installs, tests, and maintains Emergency Responder Communication Enhancement Systems (ERCES), public safety and cellular DAS, structured cabling, Wi-Fi, security and CCTV, and audiovisual systems. The company also delivers ongoing managed and compliance services for multi-site clients across the United States.

Learn more at https://www.wzcnetworking.com

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HAMILTON TOWNSHIP, N.J., Oct. 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- How long does hardwood refinishing take in Mercer County homes? HelloNation has published the answer in a HelloNation article that explains each phase of the process and what homeowners can expect during the project timeline.

The HelloNation article describes hardwood refinishing as a multi-step process that requires planning, especially in occupied homes. It explains that the work typically involves sanding, optional staining, and applying a protective finish. Each step includes required drying time, which affects how long rooms remain out of use.

Sanding is identified as the first and most labor-intensive stage of hardwood refinishing. Professionals use specialized equipment to remove old finishes and smooth surface imperfections. The article notes that sanding an average-sized room can take a full day, while larger homes may require several days to complete this phase.

According to the article, sanding can generate dust even when containment systems are used. Homeowners may notice some disruption in nearby rooms. Furniture must be removed or carefully covered, and edges or corners often require detailed manual sanding.

The article features insights from Flooring Expert Rich Linnell, whose experience with hardwood refinishing projects in Mercer County helps illustrate how preparation and scheduling influence the overall project timeline. Understanding the process in advance allows homeowners to plan around temporary disruptions.

After sanding, staining may be applied to enhance or change the wood's appearance. The article explains that staining is optional but can improve color consistency and overall visual appeal. While applying stain may take only a few hours, adequate drying time is essential before moving to the next step.

Drying time after staining can range from several hours to overnight, depending on the product used and room conditions. The article emphasizes that rushing this stage can affect the final finish. Allowing proper drying helps ensure even color and better adhesion of the protective finish.

The next stage in hardwood refinishing involves applying a protective finish. The HelloNation article explains that most projects require at least two coats, and sometimes more in high-traffic areas. Each coat must be applied carefully and allowed to dry completely.

Drying time varies based on the type of finish selected. Water-based finishes often dry within four to six hours per coat, while oil-based finishes may require longer periods. During this time, floors must remain undisturbed, which limits access to refinished areas.

The article explains that in many occupied homes, residents can remain in the house during the project. However, movement should be minimized around active work areas. Planning daily routines around restricted access helps reduce inconvenience and protect the newly applied protective finish.

For most average-sized spaces, the total project timeline for hardwood refinishing ranges from three to five days. Larger or more complex homes may require additional time. This schedule accounts for sanding, optional staining, multiple finish applications, and sufficient drying time between each phase.

Proper ventilation is highlighted as an important factor throughout the refinishing process. Many modern products are designed to reduce odor, but airflow still supports faster drying and improved comfort. The article advises homeowners to plan for furniture removal and to keep pets and children away from work areas.

Communication with flooring professionals is also emphasized. The article notes that discussing scheduling needs and household routines with professionals such as Rich Linnell can help minimize disruption in occupied homes. Clear expectations about the project timeline allow homeowners to prepare effectively.

Ultimately, the HelloNation article explains that understanding each stage of hardwood refinishing helps set realistic expectations. While temporary inconvenience is part of the process, careful planning makes it manageable. With appropriate drying time and proper application of each protective finish, refinished hardwood can add long-term beauty and value to Mercer County homes.

How Long Hardwood Refinishing Takes in Mercer County Homes features insights from Rich Linnell, Flooring Expert of Hamilton, New Jersey, in HelloNation.

About HelloNation

HelloNation is a premier media platform that connects readers with trusted professionals and businesses across various industries. Through its innovative "edvertising" approach that blends educational content and storytelling, HelloNation delivers expert-driven articles that inform, inspire, and empower. Covering topics from home improvement and health to business strategy and lifestyle, HelloNation highlights leaders making a meaningful impact in their communities.

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First-to-market launch brings a lower-cost riociguat to U.S. patients living with pulmonary arterial hypertension and chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension

AHMEDABAD, India and PENNINGTON, N.J., Oct. 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Zydus Lifesciences Limited (Zydus), in partnership with MSN Laboratories Private Limited (MSN), today announced the launch of Riociguat Tablets, 0.5 mg, 1 mg, 1.5 mg, 2 mg and 2.5 mg, in the United States. Zydus and MSN are the first companies to launch a generic version of Adempas® (riociguat) in the U.S. market. The product was developed and is manufactured by MSN.

Riociguat Tablets are approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) as a generic equivalent of Adempas® Tablets in all five strengths. Riociguat is a soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC) stimulator indicated for the treatment of adults with persistent or recurrent chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH, WHO Group 4) after surgical treatment, or inoperable CTEPH, to improve exercise capacity and WHO functional class; and for adults with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH, WHO Group 1), to improve exercise capacity, improve WHO functional class and to delay clinical worsening.

Commenting on the development, Dr. Sharvil Patel, Managing Director, Zydus Lifesciences Limited, said, "Being first to market with generic riociguat is a milestone for our U.S. business and for patients with pulmonary hypertension. It reflects the strength of our complex-generics pipeline, our ability to execute day-one launches in specialty categories, and the strength of our partnerships that complement our commercial reach in the United States. We are pleased to enable access to the drug across all five strengths, allowing physicians and pharmacies to transition patients with confidence."

Dr. MSN Reddy, Founder & CMD, MSN Laboratories, said, "Riociguat is a technically demanding molecule, and bringing the first generic to the U.S. demonstrates the depth of MSN's integrated API and formulation R&D and the scale of our manufacturing. Together with Zydus' established U.S. commercial platform, we are confident of delivering consistent, high-quality supply of this important therapy."

PAH and CTEPH are rare, progressive and life-threatening conditions in which patients typically remain on therapy for life. So far, riociguat was available in the United States only as the branded product. Sales of riociguat are not reported by IQVIA. According to Bayer's Annual Report 2025, the global sales of Adempas® were approximately EUR 745 million (approximately USD 850 million) in 2025 (source: https://www.bayer.com/sites/default/files/2026-03/bayer-annual-report-2025.pdf).

About Zydus

Zydus Lifesciences Ltd., with an overarching purpose of empowering people with freedom to live healthier and more fulfilled lives, is an innovative, global life sciences company that discovers, develops, manufactures, and markets a broad range of healthcare therapies. The group employs over 30,000 people worldwide, including 1,500 scientists engaged in R & D, and is driven by its mission to unlock new possibilities in life sciences through quality healthcare solutions that impact lives. The group aspires to transform lives through pathbreaking discoveries. Over the last decade, Zydus has introduced several innovative, first-in class products in the market for treating unmet healthcare needs with vaccines, therapeutics, biologicals, and New Chemical Entities. For more details visit www.zyduslife.com

About MSN Laboratories

MSN Laboratories Group is a research-driven, fully integrated pharmaceutical company established in 2003, with a mission to make high-quality medicines accessible and affordable worldwide. The group operates 25 manufacturing facilities across India and the USA, supported by a unified R&D ecosystem spanning both API and finished dosage development. With over 1,000 patents filed globally, 200+ ANDA submissions and a leading position in US DMF filings, MSN has built a strong global presence. With a portfolio of 550+ APIs and 400+ finished dosage forms across 35+ therapeutic areas, MSN serves over 50 million patients in more than 100 countries. For more details visit www.msnlabs.com.

Adempas® is a registered trademark of Bayer. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

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TAMPA, Fla., Oct. 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- CR Fitness Holdings LLC, a subsidiary of Crunch Fitness franchisee CR Fitness Holdings, announced today the milestone anniversary of Crunch South Tampa, a 20,000 square-foot fitness facility located at 4055 S Dale Mabry Hwy, Tampa, FL 33611. Since opening its doors in October 2016, Crunch South Tampa has proudly served the local community by providing an inclusive, high-energy atmosphere where fitness meets fun.

To commemorate this milestone, Crunch South Tampa will host a celebration event on Saturday October 10th from 10am-1pm, inviting members and their guests to join for a day filled with food, fun, fitness, special Group Fitness classes and more.

Crunch South Tampa offers state-of-the-art cardio and strength training equipment with certified personal training options, World-famous group fitness classes, HIITZone™ with training turf, Boxing, TRX bands, Relax & Recover area featuring HydroMassage® beds and Tanning, Olympic Squat Platforms, spacious locker rooms with saunas and more!

Memberships start at just $9.99 per month, and information on each plan option can be found at CrunchSouthTampa.com.

"As we celebrate this exciting milestone at Crunch South Tampa, I'm incredibly proud of the growth of our Crunch family and the positive impact we've had on our members and community," said Tony Scrimale, CEO of CR Fitness. "We look forward to building on this success and bringing even more people into the Crunch culture of fitness, fun, and no judgments."

About CR Fitness Holdings, LLC

CR Fitness Holdings LLC, a subsidiary of CR Fitness Holdings, currently operates 63 Crunch gyms in the state of Florida and is on track to operate nearly 65 total by the end of 2026. Its parent company, CR Fitness Holdings, is a leading Crunch Fitness franchise group that currently serves over one million members across 99 Crunch Fitness locations and is on pace to operate 110 Crunch locations nationwide across Florida, Georgia, Texas, North Carolina, Arizona, and Tennessee by the end of 2026. Backed by major investment firms North Castle Partners and Sixth Street, CR Fitness Holdings is continuing its expansion across Florida, with additional locations planned in the near future.

SOURCE CR Fitness Holdings, LLC.

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Special Boston Event Led by Elizabeth R. Koch Blends Neuroscience, Storytelling, Live Music and Meaningful Conversation to Reveal the Hidden Forces Shaping How We See Ourselves and the World

BOSTON, Oct. 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- What if an ordinary object could reveal something extraordinary about you?

On Saturday, November 14, Unlikely Collaborators and Boston-based cultural organization The Jar will present The Perception Box™ Adventure, an immersive evening inviting participants to discover how their beliefs, memories, emotions and personal histories shape the reality they perceive every day.

Taking place from 7:00 to 10:00 p.m. at Boston's SoWa Power Station, the evening will be led by Elizabeth R. Koch, founder and CEO of Unlikely Collaborators and creator of the Perception Box™ framework.Tickets to the event sold out shortly after being made available.

Part interactive exploration and part experiment in self-discovery, the evening will invite guests to explore a collection of curious objects, toys and trinkets and become aware of the stories, assumptions and associations their minds create around them. Through neuroscience, storytelling, live music, personal reflection and meaningful conversation, participants will encounter firsthand a deceptively simple idea: meaning isn't found. It's made.

"Humans are meaning-making, story-creating creatures. Give us an ordinary object and almost instantly, our minds begin filling in the blanks," said Koch. "We name it. We think about its purpose. We associate it with experiences we've had, TV shows we've seen, people we like or don't like. The Perception Box Adventure is a playful way to catch our minds in the act and see how differently other people perceive what we think we already know."

The collaboration brings together two organizations committed to creating opportunities that deepen self-awareness and human connection. The Jar has been a grantee of Unlikely Collaborators for the past two years, and The Perception Box Adventure represents the latest evolution of a growing partnership, with additional collaborative events already in development.

Founded in Boston in 2019, The Jar builds a cultural community at the intersection of equity, relationships and art, creating gatherings designed to bring together people who might not otherwise find themselves in the same room. Its programming uses art and culture as catalysts for connection, reflection and encountering one another across differences.

Unlikely Collaborators creates and supports programs, storytelling and research that help people examine the internal forces shaping how they understand themselves, others and the world. Central to its work is the Perception Box, a framework developed by Koch to describe the subjective mental models through which each of us perceives reality.

Our Perception Box is shaped by our beliefs, life experiences, education, values, memories, physiology, unconscious patterns and the meaning we have made from what has happened to us. It influences what we notice, how we interpret what happens to us and what we believe is possible. When we become aware of that box, even briefly, we create space between what happens and the meaning we automatically assign to it. That space can allow for greater curiosity, a greater capacity to sit with uncertainty and difficult emotions, and greater openness toward others.

The Perception Box Adventure brings this framework to life, transforming an abstract idea into something participants can see, feel and explore together.

"The Jar starts with relationships, and our happenings are built around creating the conditions for people to encounter art, ideas and one another in new ways," said Guy Ben-Aharon, founder and executive director of The Jar. "This collaboration with Unlikely Collaborators gives our community an entirely new way to do that by turning our attention inward and becoming curious about what each of us brings into the room."

The evening reflects a conviction shared by both organizations: changing how we understand one another begins with becoming more aware of how we understand ourselves.

About Unlikely Collaborators

Unlikely Collaborators is a nonprofit organization founded and led by CEO Elizabeth R. Koch dedicated to fostering transformative storytelling, developing human connection and resolving internal conflict. Unlikely Collaborators starts from the perspective that external conflict often arises from unconscious, unresolved internal conflict within each of us. Founded on the belief that the way we perceive the world is highly subjective, the organization creates and supports programs, storytelling, research and other initiatives that challenge assumptions, spark meaningful dialogue and invite people into deeper self-awareness in community.

Central to this work is the Perception Box™, a framework developed by Koch to describe the mental models through which we perceive ourselves and the world around us. By becoming aware of the forces shaping our individual Perception Boxes, we can begin to loosen rigid patterns of perception and create greater room for curiosity, connection and possibility.

For more information, visit unlikelycollaborators.com.

About The Jar

Founded in Boston in 2019, The Jar is a cultural organization building community at the intersection of equity, relationships and art. Through a diverse range of cultural programming, The Jar creates opportunities for people from different backgrounds and life experiences to gather, encounter new perspectives and engage with art and one another.

The Jar's approach begins with relationships and seeks to create diverse, inclusive audiences in which traditional barriers can give way to connection, curiosity and discovery. Its programming has included staged readings, neighborhood salons, stand-up comedy, cabaret, poetry and other cultural gatherings designed to delight, ignite and unite its community.

For more information, visit jumpinthejar.org.

About Elizabeth R. Koch

Elizabeth R. Koch is a writer, social entrepreneur, and founder of multiple mission-driven organizations exploring the intersection of storytelling, scientific research, and human development. She is the CEO and founder of Unlikely Collaborators, a nonprofit that brings people together from diverse disciplines and backgrounds to examine how beliefs, identity narratives, and adversity shape perception. As cofounder of the Tiny Blue Dot Foundation, she supports interdisciplinary scientific research across a wide variety of fields relating to identity and meaning-making, including neuroscience, psychology, child development, interoceptive awareness, and predictive processing. Her Perception Box framework has been integrated into curriculum and leadership training models, including work with Search Inside Yourself Global, which provides education in emotional intelligence, mindfulness, and resilience for organizations and leaders around the world. She developed the Perception Box framework to illuminate the internal lens through which individuals interpret the world and themselves.

SOURCE Unlikely Collaborators

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Harvard public health scientist and addiction research leader will lead scientific agenda spanning tobacco, nicotine and broader addiction challenges

WASHINGTON, Oct. 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Truth Initiative, the nation's largest nonprofit public health organization dedicated to preventing youth and young adult nicotine addiction and empowering quitting for all, today announced that Dr. Vaughan Rees will join the organization as Chief Research Officer on October 27, succeeding Dr. Barbara Schillo.

Rees joins Truth Initiative from the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, where he has served as Director of the Center for Global Tobacco Control since 2015 and is a Senior Lecturer on Social and Behavioral Sciences. A public health scientist and research leader with more than 25 years of experience, Rees brings deep expertise in addiction and behavioral science, tobacco control and regulatory science, prevention, implementation science and public health policy. At Truth Initiative, he will lead the Schroeder Institute, the organization's research and scientific enterprise.

"Vaughan is an exceptional scientist and leader whose breadth of expertise is ideally matched to where Truth Initiative is headed," said Kathy Crosby, CEO and president of Truth Initiative. "We have built an extraordinary foundation in tobacco and nicotine science, and as the addiction landscape evolves, we have an opportunity to apply our science, innovation and behavior change expertise more broadly to the addiction challenges affecting young people today, including those related to nicotine, cannabis, opioids and other emerging risks. Vaughan brings the scientific leadership and perspective to help us build on that foundation, advance proven public health interventions that prevent and address addiction, and ensure rigorous evidence informs public health policy, regulation and solutions that improve lives."

As Chief Research Officer, Rees will guide the continued evolution of Truth Initiative's scientific agenda through the Schroeder Institute, advancing a multidisciplinary research portfolio encompassing tobacco and nicotine, addiction science, behavioral health, emerging nicotine products, cannabis, polysubstance use and other evolving public health challenges, particularly among youth and young adults. He will also help expand opportunities for externally funded research and scientific collaboration and strengthen Truth Initiative's ability to translate rigorous science into evidence-based interventions and real-world public health impact.

"I am honored to join Truth Initiative, an organization with such a strong record of using science to improve public health," said Rees. "I look forward to working with its talented scientists and leaders to better understand the processes that drive addiction and, importantly, translate what we learn into more effective prevention, treatment and public health policy."

Throughout his career, Rees has led interdisciplinary research programs and built national and international collaborations spanning addiction science, tobacco regulatory science and public health. At Harvard, his work has included laboratory-based tobacco research examining tobacco products, consumer behavior and questions relevant to tobacco regulation, giving him deep experience at the intersection of science, product regulation and public health policy. As Principal Investigator, he has directed a multidisciplinary research portfolio supported by more than $12 million in external funding and contributed to collaborative research programs exceeding $50 million. He has advised the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control and the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine.

Rees' research reflects the breadth he will bring to Truth Initiative. In addition to extensive work in tobacco and nicotine, his research has examined cannabis and nicotine co-use, cannabis retailer availability and broader drug-attributable harms.

Rees also brings a strong commitment to developing the next generation of public health scientists. He has mentored more than 60 master's students, 12 doctoral students, postdoctoral fellows and early-career investigators.

Rees succeeds Dr. Barbara Schillo, whose excellent leadership has helped build Truth Initiative's strong scientific foundation and advance its national reputation for rigorous, policy-relevant public health research.

"Barbara's contributions to Truth Initiative and to the field have been extraordinary," Crosby said. "Her leadership has strengthened our science, developed exceptional researchers and ensured that evidence remains at the heart of our work. We are deeply grateful for all she has contributed, and Vaughan will build on an incredibly strong foundation as we enter this next chapter."

About Truth Initiative  

Truth Initiative® is a national nonprofit public health organization committed to a future free from lifelong addiction, fostering healthier lives and a more resilient nation. Our mission is to prevent youth and young adult nicotine addiction and empower quitting for all. Through our evidence-based, market-leading cessation intervention, EX® Program, and national public education campaigns, we lead the fight against youth and young adult tobacco use. Learn more at truthinitiative.org. 

SOURCE Truth Initiative

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MILTON, Fla., Oct. 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- How long does a bathroom remodel really take in Santa Rosa County, and what steps should homeowners expect along the way? A HelloNation article provides clear guidance on this common question by outlining the bathroom remodeling process from start to finish. The article, based on insights from Steve and Sarah Abbott of CKD Remodeling in Milton, FL, helps readers understand the typical timeline and the key factors that influence it. The article gives homeowners a practical way to manage expectations and reduce stress. You can read the full overview in a HelloNation article.

According to the article, the bathroom remodel timeline starts long before demolition. Planning includes defining the project scope, choosing design features, and selecting materials. The article emphasizes that finalizing decisions about tile, fixtures, and lighting early can prevent delays, as many items must be ordered in advance. Waiting too long to place orders can shift the schedule before work even begins.

Permits also play a critical role in the bathroom remodeling process. The article notes that most Santa Rosa County bathroom remodels involving plumbing changes, electrical updates, or structural work require official permits. Approval times vary depending on the project's complexity and the county's review process. Required inspections connected to these permits may also affect the pace of construction.

Once materials are in hand and permits are approved, on-site work begins with demolition. The article points out that this phase often reveals hidden issues like water damage or outdated framing. In older Florida homes, addressing these findings is necessary and can extend the bathroom remodel timeline. However, correcting these issues improves both safety and long-term performance.

Plumbing and electrical updates follow demolition. These stages typically require coordination between trades and inspection sign-offs before walls can be closed. The article explains that any plumbing changes during a remodel, especially fixture relocation, can add time because multiple systems must be adjusted.

The article then walks through the rebuilding phase. Installing drywall, waterproofing, tile, and flooring takes careful planning, especially when complex tile patterns are involved. Since tile work often requires multiple steps and drying times, it can become one of the longer parts of the process.

Next comes fixture installation. Items like vanities, toilets, faucets, lighting, and mirrors are typically added after finishes are complete. The article advises checking deliveries in advance, as damaged or incorrect items can lead to unexpected delays. Early confirmation of orders supports a smoother installation phase.

The final phase of the bathroom remodeling process involves inspections and walkthroughs. These ensure that plumbing, electrical, and ventilation work meet code requirements. Any needed corrections must be completed before the project is considered done. A closing walkthrough helps confirm that everything works properly and aligns with the original plan.

The article emphasizes that most delays happen when homeowners make design or material changes after construction begins. The overall santa rosa county bathroom remodel timeline depends on preparation, coordination, and the ability to stick with early decisions.

What to Expect From a Bathroom Remodel Timeline features insights from Steve and Sarah Abbott, Remodeling Experts of Milton, FL, in HelloNation.

About HelloNation

HelloNation is a premier media platform that connects readers with trusted professionals and businesses across various industries. Through its innovative "edvertising" approach that blends educational content and storytelling, HelloNation delivers expert-driven articles that inform, inspire, and empower. Covering topics from home improvement and health to business strategy and lifestyle, HelloNation highlights leaders making a meaningful impact in their communities.

SOURCE HelloNation

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PITTSBURGH, Oct. 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- "I wanted to create a very safe and reliable means of lifting and suspending heavy objects via a forklift for temporary storage or movement to another location," said an inventor, from Statesville, N.C., "so I invented the TIP HOOK. My design allows items to hang with limited headroom, and it could help free space in cramped locations."

The invention provides an easy way to lift and suspend heavy items from the dual spaced forks of a forklift. In doing so, it can be used for temporary storage or movement of items to another location. As a result, it helps free up valuable space in tight locations. It also increases safety and efficiency. The invention features a durable design that is easy to use so it is ideal for industrial settings, construction companies, etc.

The original design was submitted to the Charlotte sales office of InventHelp. It is currently available for licensing or sale to manufacturers or marketers. For more information, write Dept. 25-CNC-1163, InventHelp, 100 Beecham Drive, Suite 110, Pittsburgh, PA 15205-9801, or call (412) 288-1300 ext. 1368. Learn more about InventHelp's Invention Submission Services at http://www.InventHelp.com.

SOURCE InventHelp

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