The tethered UAS pictured in coverage of the Army's recent ISV-U trials was Hoverfly Spectre: the first and only TeUAS on the DCMA Blue UAS Cleared List

SANFORD, Fla., Oct. 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Hoverfly Technologies, the world's leading US-based tethered UAS provider, today confirmed its participation in recent U.S. Army Maneuver Battle Lab (MBL) field trials at Fort Benning, Georgia. Defense media outlets widely reported on the Army's evaluation of tethered drones integrated onto an Infantry Squad Vehicle-Utility (ISV-U) to extend line-of-sight communications and surveillance.

What those headlines didn't mention is the name behind the tethered drone featured in the imagery: Hoverfly Spectre TeUAS.

Industry commentators have framed the Fort Benning event as a test of an emerging concept. For Hoverfly, it was the next step in years of work. The trials built on more than 700 Hoverfly TeUAS fielded, five years of direct Soldier touch points, and numerous National Training Center rotations, each of which has shaped Spectre TeUAS into the system it is today. Fort Benning confirmed that work has produced a mature, combat-ready platform refined around the needs of the warfighter.

A FIELDED FORCE MULTIPLIER

When defense coverage leaves out the brand name, it can make an operational capability look like a prototype looking for a home. Hoverfly's tethered UAS technology defined the category, and it's been in the field for years.

- The Only TeUAS on the Blue List: Hoverfly Spectre is officially the first and only Tethered UAS platform cleared on the DCMA Blue UAS List and verified secure via AUVSI Green UAS.

- Official U.S. Army VHA-Heavy: Spectre TeUAS was selected to be the designated VHA-Heavy for PDM Nett Warrior FY25.

- 700+ TeUAS Systems Fielded: With over 700 systems delivered to the U.S. military and allied forces to date, Hoverfly platforms are already deployed worldwide for operating base security, battalion-level communications, and persistent ISR.

PROVEN AT FORT BENNING

During the two-week MBL evaluation at McKenna Field Landing Site, Soldiers, capability developers, the Air Robotics Dismounted Requirements Branch, and Product Lead Strategic Spectrum Warfare (PL SSW) put tethered UAS platforms, including Hoverfly Spectre, through rigorous tactical pacing.

Integrated directly onto the moving ISV-U, Hoverfly Spectre demonstrated dynamic "follow-mode," tracking smoothly above vehicles traversing complex, off-road terrain. Operating at altitudes up to 200 feet, Spectre TeUAS functioned as an airborne mobile sensor and radio relay node, extending command-and-control (C2) reach and situational awareness well beyond physical terrain limits while keeping pace with the maneuver unit.

BUILT FOR THE WARFIGHTER

Modern battlefields have zero tolerance for short flight times or vulnerable wireless links. Traditional battery-powered drones require battery swaps after 30 minutes or get jammed the moment the electronic spectrum gets hot, jeopardizing critical mission intelligence. Hoverfly Spectre was built to dominate in those exact environments.

By delivering continuous power and high-speed data through a physical tether, Spectre TeUAS eliminates flight-time limits entirely while producing zero RF emissions for command and control. In contested conditions like those replicated at Fort Benning, this secure physical link lets operators bypass active RF signal jamming, bounce communications over terrain obstacles, and track targets at extended ranges, without exposing the squad's position to electronic detection.

"In a matter of minutes, I was able to get [the drone] launched up in the air … and then it's a quick, easy one-step button to bring it back down," said Capt. Sarah Runion, MBL Live Experimentation Branch executive officer. "This has been a user-friendly experience."

"It's similar to a very high tower," added Mark Pagliaro, contractor for Product Lead Strategic Spectrum Warfare. "Having a sensor up that high in their area of operations is going to influence the maneuver unit and allow them to extend ranges and see targets farther."

THE LEADING TEUAS: SPECTRE

Hoverfly Spectre stands apart through several key operational capabilities required for modern multi-domain operations:

- Unmatched Persistence: Tether power delivers 24/7 airborne operations for persistent surveillance, targeting, and mobile mesh network extension without battery recovery cycles.

- Contested Environment Operation: Hardwired control and data transmission mitigates jamming, reduces RF signature, and protects tactical units in contested electronic warfare environments.

- Dynamic On-The-Move Mobility: Automated launch, landing, and dynamic follow-mode allow light maneuver platforms like the ISV-U to maintain continuous aerial coverage at tactical speeds.

WE ARE THE CONVERSATION

Hoverfly has shaped tethered drone requirements for years, turning theoretical technologies and critical mission needs into real fielded capability. With a Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA) supporting up to 8 lbs of flexible payload capacity, including EO/IR optics, tactical radios (MANET/MIMO), and Counter-UAS sensors, Hoverfly Spectre is already delivering force-multiplying aerial dominance to warfighters every single day.

Fort Benning is one more chapter in that story. Every system fielded, Soldier touch point, and training rotation shapes how Spectre is built, and as the Army refines tethered operations for light tactical vehicles, Hoverfly Spectre is ready to fly with them today.

SUMMARY

Recent news reports highlighted the U.S. Army Maneuver Battle Lab (MBL) testing tethered drones on the Infantry Squad Vehicle-Utility (ISV-U) at Fort Benning—including the battle-proven Hoverfly Spectre, the platform pictured in coverage of the trials.

Key Highlights:

- Setting the Record: Confirmed Hoverfly Spectre as the tethered drone pictured in coverage of recent Army ISV-U mobility and ISR trials at Fort Benning.

- Proven Track Record: Highlighted Hoverfly Spectre as the only tethered drone on the DCMA Blue UAS Cleared List and over 700 Hoverfly TeUAS systems fielded across the U.S. military.

- On-The-Move Coverage: Validated dynamic "follow-mode" capabilities up to 200 feet above moving tactical vehicles, extending vision and mesh communications over terrain obstacles.

- Elevated Security: Highlighted physical tether data links that bypass RF jamming and maintain zero RF control signatures in contested EW environments.

About Hoverfly Technologies

Hoverfly Technologies is a leading provider of tethered drone systems for defense and security. As a Blue UAS Cleared manufacturer, Hoverfly's technology enables 24/7 situational awareness and secure communications in the most demanding combat environments.

SOURCE Hoverfly Technologies Inc.

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Leakproof underwear, lingerie and sleepwear inspired by the Courts of Prythian bring the beloved fantasy world to life as anticipation builds for Sarah J. Maas' next book in the series

NEW YORK, Oct. 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Knix today unveiled an exclusive collaboration with A Court of Thorns and Roses (ACOTAR), giving the book world's most talked-about fantasy series its first one-of-a-kind intimate collection. With more than 85 million Sarah J. Maas books sold in English alone and over two million ACOTAR posts on TikTok, the series has become a cultural phenomenon and the heart of one of BookTok's most passionate communities.

Officially launching October 15, the collection brings the world of Prythian into Knix's signature leakproof underwear and sleepwear. For the past decade, Knix has championed intimates that fit every body and help people feel confident enough to take up space, while ACOTAR has cultivated a similarly passionate fandom around characters who embrace their power and refuse to make themselves smaller.

It's fitting, then, that the idea started with Knix's own fans and champions internally, long before it became official. The team saw a natural connection between the brand and the passionate ACOTAR fandom and pursued the partnership, securing the license through ACOTAR's licensing agency, IMG Licensing. Once the collaboration was already underway, Knix turned to its community on social media to ask who they would most want to see the brand work with next – and the answer was overwhelming ACOTAR. That enthusiasm reinforced what the team already knew: this was a partnership our community genuinely wanted. The collaboration marks Knix's first book-inspired collection, introducing the brand to one of publishing and BookTok's most passionate fandoms. From there, more than 40 self-proclaimed ACOTAR super-fans across design, marketing and leadership jumped in to help bring the collection to life, proof that this was a partnership the whole team was genuinely excited to be part of.

"ACOTAR fans are some of the most passionate people on the internet, and I'm one of them," said Nicole Tapscott, President of Knix. "I've read every book, and getting to bring this world into our products has been a dream. This collection is everything Knix stands for: feeling amazing in your own skin, with a little more power, desire and self-expression baked in. It's a natural evolution for us, and the perfect excuse to introduce Knix to a whole new generation of readers who already love this world as much as we do."

For Knix, getting the details right was everything. The team translated the world of Prythian into the collection through thoughtful design details, with every piece reviewed line by line by Knix's internal ACOTAR fan club. The goal was to stay true to the books and Maas's vision, right down to the smallest details. The collection features five new silhouettes, each inspired by a different character in the series:

- Satin Corset – channels Nesta's unyielding strength and fire

- Sheer Skirt & Lace Teddy – designed to layer together, recreating Feyre's unforgettable turn in the Court of Nightmares

- Shimmering Robe & Slip Set – brings Feyre's Starfall night to life

- Lace Bodysuit & Sheer Skirt – Elain's quiet power comes through in this piece

- Satin Slips – signature pieces built around Amren's and Morrigan's distinct personas

Alongside these, are five exclusive prints bring the most beloved Courts to life across Knix's signature bras, leakproof underwear, sleepwear and more:

- Spring Court Bloom – feminine florals across bras, underwear and sleep sets capture the romance and renewal of Tamlin's court

- Velaris Night Sky – constellations and drifting stars bring the Night Court's magic to life on satin sleepwear and lingerie, made for reading well past midnight

- Ink That Binds – flowing, tattoo-like linework traces the bond between Feyre and Rhysand across intimates designed to feel as personal as the pairing itself

- Autumn Tapestry and Ember Fox – rich, layered patterns channel the Autumn Court's warmth through cozy loungewear and richly hued lingerie

- Adriata Toile – coastal motifs bring the Summer Court's easy, sun-drenched beauty to swim and everyday essentials

In the lead-up to launch, Knix will build anticipation across social and within its own community with a series of ACOTAR-inspired activations. The celebration kicks off on October 15 with a Consumer Pop-Up at Lavan Chelsea (541 W 25th Street) in NYC, open from 12–8pm. Fans can expect interactive experiences, fandom programming, a musical guest and the chance to shop the collection in person, plus exclusive gifts and prizes available only that day. Knix is also partnering with 30 BookTok creators to bring the collection to life for the community that inspired it, with additional programming and content rolling out in the weeks that follow.

And this is just the beginning. Knix will return to Prythian in January 2027 with a second chapter of the collection inspired by the Spring Court, timed to Maas' A Court Forgotten Melody, Book Seven.

The collection launches exclusively at https://knix.com/acotar on Thursday, October 15. Choose your Court. Choose your fantasy.

About Knix

Knix is an industry leader in redefining intimates through innovation, inclusivity, and a commitment to breaking boundaries. From pioneering Leakproof underwear to revolutionizing wireless and underwire support, Knix challenges convention with thoughtfully engineered designs that blend function, comfort, and style. With a product range spanning bras, swim, activewear, customizable shapewear, and everyday essentials available in an extensive size range, Knix continues to set new standards for how intimates should look, feel, and perform. For more information, visit knix.ca or follow @knix and @ktbyknix on social media.

About Sarah J. Maas

Sarah J. Maas is the internationally bestselling author of the Court of Thorns and Roses, Throne of Glass, and Crescent City Series, captivating millions with her intricate worlds, compelling characters, and masterful blend of romance, action, and adventure. With an astonishing 268 appearances on the New YorkTimes bestseller list, she has cemented her status as one of the most successful authors of the modern era. Her works have sold more than 85 million copies in English and are published in 40 languages, earning her a devoted global fanbase. For more than a decade, her sophisticated fantasy novels have inspired audiences through their exploration of hope, growth and self-love. She is often celebrated for reigniting the genre, even being credited as "a driving force behind the meteoric rise of a whole new subcategory in [fantasy fiction]" (TIME). Also a cultural phenomenon, the TikTok hashtag for her A Court of Thorns and Roses series boasts billions of views. Her latest release, House of Flame and Shadow (January 2024), marked her biggest launch to date, spending 13 weeks on the New York Times bestseller list and breaking records within the fantasy  genre.

SOURCE Knix

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50-foot tree lighting, holiday celebrations, live entertainment, family activities and the inaugural Holiday Pickleball Classic bring festive traditions to the Texas Hill Country

HORSESHOE BAY, Texas, Oct. 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Horseshoe Bay Resort, part of Crescent Hotels & Resorts Latitudes collection, today announced its 2026 holiday season, Big & Bright: A Hill Country Holiday. The lineup runs from Nov. 28 through New Year's Eve and includes signature celebrations, live entertainment, family activities and a first-ever holiday pickleball tournament.

The season kicks off Saturday, Nov. 28, with Santa's arrival and the lighting of the resort's 50-foot Christmas tree during Winter Wonderland. The evening will feature holiday music by VocaLibre, a Wine Expo showcasing 30 prestigious wineries, pop-up cookie and cocoa bars, holiday shopping with boutique retailers, and horse-drawn carriage and train rides throughout the evening.

Families can travel to the North Pole aboard the Jingle Bell Express on Nov. 29, with train rides, a custom hot cocoa station, dance scenes by Pulse Dance Project, visits with Santa and his elves, and a festive breakfast buffet.

Christmas on the Lawn returns Dec. 4, bringing the whole family together with Victorian Christmas carolers before the kids take the stage for Kids' Karaoke with Jesse Mac. Kids can win cash prizes while the whole family enjoys complimentary s'mores and cocoa beneath the 50-foot Christmas tree.

Sounds of the Season Christmas Concert follows Dec. 5, featuring Dave Madden and McKenna Michels with a full orchestra, for a festive performance of Christmas classics and contemporary favorites.

Guests can start the day Dec. 6 with A Charlie Brown Christmas Breakfast, featuring character photo ops, a breakfast buffet with Snoopy's waffle station, a live trio performing Vince Guaraldi's Charlie Brown Christmas soundtrack, and the opportunity to dance along with favorite Peanuts characters alongside Pulse Dance Project.

The inaugural Horseshoe Bay Resort Holiday Pickleball Classic takes place Dec. 4-6, offering a weekend of world-class instruction and competitive play with two of pickleball's most decorated players, Lina Padegimaite, a member of a top-ranked pro pickleball team, and Zane Navratil, ranked in the top four in the world. Whether chasing a personal best or simply looking to swing a paddle with the pros, players can take part in a holiday weekend built around competitive pickleball and instruction from top players.

Beyond the signature events, guests can build their own holiday itinerary with a variety of seasonal activities offered throughout the resort. Complimentary s'mores, holiday crafts, gingerbread decorating, a kids' Holiday Paint & Sip, Silent Disco, a Christmas Candy Train Craft Workshop and story nights with Mrs. Claus give families plenty of opportunities to add a little extra holiday magic to their stay.

The year closes with a New Year's Eve party featuring The Pictures Band and a countdown to a midnight champagne toast and balloon drop. For teens, the Teen Zone NYE Party includes video games, interactive party games, music, and plenty of snacks and drinks. For kids under 13, the NYE Pajama Party is filled with games, food, and arts & crafts to count down to midnight.

The holiday line-up is offered exclusively to Horseshoe Bay Resort hotel guests and members of The Club at Horseshoe Bay. With rates starting at $274 per night, guests can enjoy the festivities with family or friends in a remarkable Texas Hill Country destination.

As a bonus for families during the holiday season, Horseshoe Bay Resort's year-round "Kids Stay, Eat & Play Free" package offers children under 12 to stay free and receive complimentary breakfast and dinner, free 18-hole putting and arcade game play, plus a collectible kid's parrot cup with unlimited refills on kids' drinks.

For additional information or to reserve accommodations, visit www.hsbresort.com.

About Horseshoe Bay Resort

Horseshoe Bay Resort is one of America's premier golf and lakeside destinations, located just 45 minutes from Austin in the scenic Texas Hill Country. With more than 7,000 acres along Lake LBJ, the AAA Four Diamond resort offers world-class amenities, including four championship golf courses, a lakeside spa, tennis and pickleball facilities, and an extensive marina. Horseshoe Bay Resort continues to invest in its future, with more than $350 million in enhancements completed over the past decade and an additional $60 million planned for 2026. Horseshoe Bay Resort is part of the Crescent Hotels & Resorts Latitudes Collection and a member of the Preferred Hotels & Resorts Lifestyle Collection. Guests are eligible to enroll in the I Prefer Hotel Rewards program, which offers points redeemable for cash-value Reward Certificates, elite status and exclusive benefits at nearly 600 participating properties worldwide.

About Crescent Hotels & Resorts

Crescent Hotels & Resorts is an award-winning, nationally recognized operator of hotels and resorts with over 120 properties in the United States & Canada. Crescent is one of the few elite management companies approved to operate upper-upscale and luxury hotels under the brand families of Marriott, Hilton, and Hyatt. Crescent also operates a collection of independent and lifestyle properties under the Latitudes Collection umbrella. These properties include NOPSI Hotel New Orleans, Horseshoe Bay Resort, and The Opus Westchester, Autograph Collection. Powered by innovative, forward-thinking experts, Latitudes is a modern management platform for lifestyle hotels and resorts where creative concepts connect with modern travelers from urban boutique hotels to oceanside luxury resorts.

Crescent's clients include premiere REITs, private equity firms and major developers. For more information, please visit www.crescenthotels.com and www.latitudesbycrescent.com or connect with Crescent on LinkedIn.

Media Contacts:

The Zimmerman Agency

[email protected]

SOURCE Horseshoe Bay Resort

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Veterans and active-duty service members can receive free haircuts at participating Sport Clips locations on Veterans Day, Nov. 11

GEORGETOWN, Texas, Oct. 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Veteran-founded Sport Clips Haircuts is launching its 13th annual campaign for the VFW's "Sport Clips Help A Hero Scholarship" program, giving clients nationwide an opportunity to help veterans and service members pursue education and career goals after military service.

The campaign runs Oct. 5 through Nov. 14, 2026, with donations accepted at participating Sport Clips locations. On Veterans Day, Nov. 11, participating stores will offer free haircuts to veterans and active-duty service members.

Since the program began, Sport Clips, its clients, franchisees, team members, and product partners have helped raise nearly $17 million, funding more than 3,600 scholarships through the VFW Foundation for veterans and service members pursuing education and training for civilian careers.

"As an Air Force veteran, I understand how important it is for those who have served to have opportunities to build what comes next," said Gordon Logan, founder and chairman of Sport Clips and a VFW Life member. "Help A Hero is about more than saying 'thank you' on Veterans Day. It is about investing in the lives of veterans and service members as they pursue an education, a career, and a future beyond their military service. Our clients have embraced this mission year after year, and their generosity is what makes these scholarships possible."

"Every year, I meet veterans who did everything right, they served, they earned their education benefits, left the military and then watched those benefits run out before their degree was finished. That gap shouldn't cost a veteran their future," said VFW National Commander Cory Geisler. "Sport Clips Haircuts and their clients' generosity directly closes that gap for our veterans and military families. In today's economy, every dollar matters more than ever, and this support isn't just funding a scholarship, it's easing a real financial burden on families who have already given so much."

This year, Cincinnati Bengals defensive tackle Landon Robinson, a 2026 U.S. Naval Academy graduate and Marine Corps second lieutenant, will help raise awareness for the campaign. Cincinnati selected Robinson in the seventh round of the 2026 NFL Draft, and he is serving in the reserves while pursuing his professional football career.

Help A Hero's impact is also reflected in this year's campaign through U.S. Army veteran Michael Ventura, a three-time scholarship recipient pursuing a Master of Fine Arts at Texas State University. Ventura served more than three years in the Army, including time in South Korea, before eventually settling in Austin to pursue education and a career in creative writing. He will graduate in fall 2027, after serving as a teaching assistant and teaching creative writing at the Hays County Jail, using writing as an outlet for others the way it became one for him.

The VFW's "Sport Clips Help A Hero Scholarship" program provides up to $5,000 per semester toward tuition and fees for veterans and service members ranking E-5 and below. To learn more, apply for a scholarship, and find stores participating in this year's campaign, visit SportClips.com/Hero.

About Sport Clips Haircuts

Sport Clips Haircuts, founded in 1993 by U.S. Air Force veteran Gordon Logan, is a sports-themed haircare franchise specializing in haircuts for men and boys, with locations across the United States and Canada. Sport Clips supports veterans and service members through numerous programs, including its long-standing partnership with the Veterans of Foreign Wars Foundation through the Sport Clips VFW Help A Hero Scholarship program. Sport Clips is also a proud partner of the Military Spouse Employment Partnership, offering professional stylists a stable, rewarding career path no matter where their military journey leads them. Learn more at SportClips.com.

About the Veterans of Foreign Wars

The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S. is the nation's largest and most established major war veterans organization. Founded in 1899, the congressionally chartered VFW is comprised entirely of eligible veterans and military service members from the active, Guard and Reserve forces. With more than 1.3 million VFW and Auxiliary members located in nearly 6,000 Posts worldwide, the nonprofit veterans service organization is proud to proclaim "NO ONE DOES MORE FOR VETERANS" than the VFW, which is dedicated to veterans' service, legislative advocacy, and military and community service programs. For more information or to join, visit our website at vfw.org.

SOURCE Sport Clips

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In celebration of National Adventure Day on October 9, Urban Air brings "Adventure Unlimited" to life with unlimited free tickets to KidHub users, equating to more than 2.5 million hours of free play

DALLAS, Oct. 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Urban Air Adventure Park, the nation's leading indoor adventure park and part of youth enrichment platform Unleashed Brands, is celebrating National Adventure Day on Oct. 9 by giving families across the country more reasons to play.

Starting today, families can download and register for KidHub, the free family app from Unleashed Brands that brings kids' activities, experiences and resources together in one place, to receive one free unlimited play pass to any participating Urban Air park.

How to Claim a Free Pass

The tickets will be issued exclusively through the KidHub app on Friday, Oct. 9. Every KidHub account will receive one pass, including all existing users and anyone who downloads and registers for the app by 11:59 p.m. local time on Oct. 9. Existing Urban Air members who receive the reward can use their pass to bring a friend along for the adventure.

Adventure on Your Own Schedule

The celebration doesn't end on National Adventure Day – tickets are valid for 45 days, giving families full flexibility to play on their own schedule. Whether that means celebrating the holiday, planning an active long weekend or making the most of fall break, there's plenty of time to turn your free pass into a full day of action.

There's also no timer on the fun. Unlike parks with timed admission, Urban Air tickets are valid from open until close.

"Kids need time to just be kids, to get off screens, move, play and have fun together," said Michael O. Browning Jr., Founder and CEO of Unleashed Brands. "National Adventure Day is a great reminder to make time for that. By giving a free ticket to every family who wants one, we're creating more opportunities for kids to connect in the real world and make memories with their families. We want to make it easier for families to say yes to more of those moments."

A $10 Million Investment in Family Fun

Representing more than $10 million in free tickets, the giveaway brings Urban Air's promise of "Adventure Unlimited" to life and reflects Urban Air and Unleashed Brands' shared commitment to investing in the families they serve, making it easier for kids to get out, get moving and make memories together.

To claim a free ticket, download the KidHub app by 11:59 p.m. on Oct. 9 at www.unleashedbrands.com/kidhub. For more information, visit www.nationaladventureday.com.

*Available for a limited time at participating U.S. locations, up to a $49 value. Limit one ticket per KidHub account. KidHub app must be downloaded by 11:59 p.m. on Oct. 9 to receive a ticket; if visiting on Oct. 9, downloading at least one hour in advance is recommended to allow time for the ticket to be issued.

About Unleashed Brands

Unleashed Brands currently includes portfolio brands Urban Air, The Little Gym, Sylvan Learning, Snapology, Class 101, Premier Martial Arts and Water Wings Swim School. The platform was founded to curate and grow a portfolio of the most innovative and profitable franchise brands that help kids learn, play, and grow. Over the last 15 years, the team at Unleashed Brands has built a proven platform for scaling businesses focused on serving families. Its mission is to impact the lives of every child by providing fun, engaging, and inspiring experiences that help them reach their full potential. For more information, visit UnleashedBrands.com.

About Urban Air Adventure Park

Urban Air Adventure Park is the nation's #1 destination for family fun, featuring a variety of attractions perfect for all ages. The award-winning national franchise brand is the largest adventure park operator in the world with more than 400 parks open or under development. Founded in 2011 with a higher purpose to help kids have fun while achieving activity goals that safely enhance their social and physical skills, Urban Air continues to lead the family entertainment industry through innovation and nationwide expansion. For more information, visit www.UrbanAir.com.

Media Contact: [email protected]

SOURCE Unleashed Brands

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COLUMBUS, Ohio, Oct. 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Red Roof®, an award-winning leader in the lodging industry, hosted Ignite, the company's Brand Conference, in Hollywood, Fla., this week, where leaders committed to accelerating their strategy for long-term growth by unveiling a series of initiatives designed to strengthen the guest experience, create greater enhancements across its portfolio and drive value for franchise owners.

"These strategic initiatives are led by a significant evolution of Red Roof PLUS+® and the next generation of RediRewards®," Red Roof President Zack Gharib told more than 1,000 attendees. RediRewards is Red Roof's loyalty program, which has more than 6 million members. Gharib added, "Together, our investments represent a sharper focus on building a stronger demand for guests to choose Red Roof, to book directly, and to stay within our family of brands, which is of clear benefit to our franchise community."

Red Roof PLUS+® Moves into Its Next Chapter

Red Roof is creating a more distinctive experience for Red Roof PLUS+, strengthening its position within the midscale lodging segment. Planned enhancements include hot breakfast served in upgraded breakfast areas and greater consistency across the guest room experience, including enhanced bathroom lighting and terry. PLUS+ properties will feature interior-corridor design and incorporate lobby marketplaces and optional fitness facilities and swimming pools based on location.

The strategy is designed to give travelers a more recognizable and elevated PLUS+ experience while creating opportunities for owners to strengthen property performance.

Red Roof Illuminates

Positioning every property in its best light and continuing to enhance the guest experience, Red Roof announced the rollout of Red Roof Lightscape, a brandwide exterior lighting enhancement that requires all Red Roof properties to upgrade to commercial-grade, high-efficiency LED lighting. The upgrade will illuminate the parking lot and pedestrian walkways, providing a brighter and safer arrival for guests. In some cases, there will be architectural specific enhancements.

RediRewards Evolves from Loyalty Program to Stronger Guest Relationship Platform

Red Roof also is enhancing the way the company recognizes and engages with its most loyal guests. The next generation of RediRewards, supported by Red Roof's HotelKey® technology partnership, is being designed around greater recognition, flexibility and personalization. Enhancements will include loyalty tiers that better recognize Red Roof's most valuable guests, more flexible redemption options, dynamic points promotions and enhanced account security. The RediRewards program will also add additional benefits geared toward business travelers.

The evolution represents an opportunity to turn RediRewards into an even stronger engine for guest engagement, direct booking and long-term brand preference. Together, the Red Roof PLUS+ and RediRewards initiatives connect two critical parts of the travel experience: what guests experience when they arrive and how the brand keeps them connected after they depart.

Extending the Red Roof Footprint

Red Roof also is carrying its growth strategy north. Gharib told conference attendees, "The opening of a Red Roof PLUS+ at Vancouver Airport marks a new beginning of what we see as a broader opportunity for international expansion." Red Roof has established dedicated development resources to support future growth in the Canadian market.

At the same time, the company continues to expand HomeTowne Studios by Red Roof®, which elevates the extended-stay experience for guests while leveraging its operations-centric prototype to create an ideal franchise lodging business for owners.

The emphasis reflects a deliberate approach to growth: strengthening Red Roof's existing portfolio, which remains focused on four core brands - Red Roof Inn®, Red Roof PLUS+, HomeTowne Studios by Red Roof, and The Red Collection® – while targeting markets and geographies where the company can create meaningful long-term value.

Building the Digital Front Door for the Next Generation of Travel

Red Roof is pairing its physical brand investments with a significant transformation of its digital ecosystem. Through its partnership with Milestone®, the company is developing an AI-native digital platform designed to improve how travelers discover Red Roof across both traditional and AI-powered search, personalize the guest journey, increase direct bookings and strengthen property visibility.

The investment comes as Red Roof is seeing significant momentum across its digital channels. There has been 44 percent year-over-year growth in app-generated revenue.

Artificial intelligence also is being deployed across multiple areas of the business, including marketing optimization and traveler insights, customer-service translation, hotel-team learning and future franchisee support. Additional AI concierge capabilities are also under development.

The common objective is practical: Use technology to make it easier for guests to find, choose and interact with Red Roof while giving hotel owners and teams better tools to improve efficiency and strengthen the guest experience.

Growth With Quality at the Center

Across the initiatives introduced at Ignite, Red Roof reinforced a strategy centered on quality, consistency and performance. There is greater emphasis on renovations and property consistency, expansion into targeted markets, including Canada and the western United States, investment in direct digital relationships with guests, and continued development in the extended-stay segment.

Additionally, Red Roof reaffirmed its ongoing work to help combat human trafficking and support missing-child recovery efforts, including the integration of AMBER Alerts into HotelKey systems and its leadership involvement with the American Hotel & Lodging Association's "No Room for Trafficking" initiative.

Gharib closed his remarks saying, "Red Roof is committed to continuing to strengthen the guest experience and deepening the relationships that bring guests back. As the franchisees' franchisor, we are giving owners the support they need to compete and grow intentionally and profitably."

About Red Roof

Red Roof is an award-winning leader in the lodging industry, recognized for creating the innovative Upscale Economy® segment, serving millions of guests each year. Red Roof's portfolio of brands includes Red Roof Inn® and Red Roof PLUS+®, HomeTowne Studios by Red Roof®, The Red Collection®, and Red Roof's dual-branded properties. Red Roof has over 60,000 rooms in more than 715 properties in the U.S. and internationally in Canada and Japan. For more information, visit redroof.com or download Red Roof's free app for iOS and Android devices. To learn about franchising opportunities, visit redrooffranchising.com.

Red Roof's Vision: To provide the best experience and value in the lodging industry for our guests, owners, team members, partners, and communities.

SOURCE Red Roof

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The cruise line unveils more ways to experience the Great Land in 2027 and reflects on the community support in 2026 ahead of milestone anniversary

Key Highlights

- Eight decades of Alaska expertise set the stage for an exciting 2027 season, with Holland America introducing new cruises, new Denali accommodations and immersive ways to explore the Great Land by sea, rail and land.

- Six ships will sail Alaska from April through September 2027, including a new eight-day Alaska Inside Passage cruise, enhanced Denali Cruisetours, and the return of the 28-day Legendary Alaska Arctic Circle Solstice.

- In 2026, Holland America continued to enhance the Alaska experience with new culinary and beverage offerings and expanded opportunities to explore the region, and it donated more than $320,000 to local organizations operating in port communities in Alaska.

SEATTLE, Oct. 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- As Holland America's 2026 Alaska season ends, the cruise line is looking ahead to next summer's milestone season celebrating 80 years of exploring the Great Land. For eight decades, Holland America has built a depth of knowledge in Alaska, helping shape an experience that brings the destination to life both on board and ashore. That expertise gives guests more ways to see Alaska's wildlife and witness its glaciers than any other cruise line, from immersive wilderness exploration to signature glacier-viewing.

That deep Alaska knowledge comes through in the details of the journey, from fresh, local seafood served on every Alaska sailing to stays at Holland America Denali Lodge and the only opportunity to combine a cruise with a visit to the Yukon. Holland America has been connected to Alaska since before it was a state, and that relationship continues not only through its cruises and overland tours, but with support for the communities it visits.

"Alaska has been an important part of Holland America Line's story for nearly 80 years, and we're already preparing to mark this milestone following a successful 2026 season," said Beth Bodensteiner, president of Holland America Line. "Our decades of experience in Alaska give us a deep understanding of what makes this destination so special, and that knowledge helps us create experiences that allow our guests to connect with the state in meaningful ways. We're proud of the memories we created this season and the relationships we continue to build in the communities we visit."

Looking forward to a milestone year exploring Alaska

Holland America will make its 80th year exploring Alaska one to remember, with six ships sailing from Seattle; Vancouver, Canada; and Whittier, Alaska, from April through September 2027: Eurodam, Koningsdam, Nieuw Amsterdam, Noordam, Westerdam and Zaandam. To mark the anniversary, guests can look forward to new ways to discover Alaska with new itineraries, exclusive celebrations, special culinary moments, and enrichment and entertainment experiences commemorating the milestone.

Next season Holland America also will debut a significant addition to Holland America Denali Lodge with the opening of new guest accommodations as part of a broader enhancement and expansion of the line's property at the doorstep of Denali National Park and Preserve.

2027 Alaska highlights:

- NEW: An eight-day "Alaska Inside Passage" cruise takes guests roundtrip from Vancouver through the storied Inside Passage before a visit to Glacier Bay and calls at Skagway, Ketchikan and British Columbia's Prince Rupert.

- The popular 28-day "Legendary Alaska Arctic Circle Solstice" cruise returns for a third year. Departing June 6 in time for the Summer Solstice, the Noordam voyage sails roundtrip from Seattle to the Bering Sea and into the Arctic Circle.

- Combining Alaska with more wildlife and the rugged nature of British Columbia is a seven-day "Great Bear Rainforest" cruise aboard Noordam and two sailings of an 18-Day "Great Bear Rainforest & Alaska Explorer" aboard Zaandam.

- Renovations at Holland America Denali Lodge will be completed in 2027, further enhancing the guest experience at the property. Final enhancements include:

- Construction of two new guest buildings replacing older structures, equating to new rooms and an increase in Lodge capacity by 72 rooms.

- A refresh and redesign of the Main Lodge interiors and public spaces.

- Full renovation of Grizzly Grind, a coffee shop for guests.

The 2027 season builds on the momentum of 2026, a season marked by continued investment in bringing the Alaska experience to life.

2026 Alaska highlights:

- Glaciers took center stage, with more than 150 opportunities to visit one or more of Alaska's iconic glaciated destinations: Glacier Bay National Park, Hubbard Glacier, Dawes Glacier and Endicott Arm. Shore excursions also offered the opportunity to visit additional glaciers like Mendenhall and Portage glaciers.

- Guests visiting Holland America Denali Lodge enjoyed a range of new culinary offerings with menus redesigned by Chef Ethan Stowell, where he expanded the use of local ingredients and flavors throughout the property's eateries. Furthermore, guests staying at the Lodge enjoyed renovated accommodations and refreshed public spaces.

- Acclaimed bartender Sam Ross created a menu of exclusive cocktails featured in the bars across the fleet in Alaska, including new Glacial Ice Cocktails.

- Holland America rolled out enhanced "Ultimate Alaska & Denali" Cruisetours, adding a tour director to join the multi-day inland adventure portion.

Holland America Line continues to invest in Alaska communities

During the 2026 season, Holland America contributed more than $320,000 to organizations and initiatives across Anchorage, Juneau, Sitka, Ketchikan and Denali. Support included a $75,000 commitment to Ketchikan American Legion Post 3 and a $5,000 donation to Scouting America Troops 4 and 2004 through the cruise lines' Pennies program.

Included in that community investment, Holland America Line contributed $150,000 to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center to support animal care and development of the Holland America Moose Promenade. And through On Deck for a Cause, guests raised more than $60,000 for Alaska Geographic, the nonprofit education partner of Alaska's parks, forests, refuges and conservation lands.

As Holland America Line approaches its 80th year in Alaska, the cruise line remains committed to creating meaningful destination experiences and supporting the communities and landscapes that make the Great Land special.

For more information about Holland America Line or to book a cruise, consult a travel advisor, call 1-877-SAIL HAL (877-724-5425) or visit hollandamerica.com.

Find Holland America Line on Facebook, Instagram and the Holland America Blog. You can also access all social media outlets via the home page at hollandamerica.com.

About Holland America Line

Holland America Line has been exploring the world for more than 150 years with expertly crafted itineraries, extraordinary service and genuine connections to the destinations. Offering a perfectly-sized ship experience, its fleet of 11 vessels visits nearly 400 ports in 114 countries around the world and has shared the thrill of Alaska for more than 75 years — longer than any other cruise line. Savour the Journey isn't just a tagline, it's a reinforcement that the cruise line provides experiences too good to hurry through, connecting travelers to the world and each other. Award-winning enrichment programming, entertainment and cuisine that brings each locale on board, including a revolutionary Global Fresh Fish Program, put Holland America Line at the forefront of premium cruising. Holland America Line is part of Carnival Corporation, the world's largest cruise company with a portfolio of cruise lines operating in over 800 ports & destinations worldwide. (NYSE: CCL).

SOURCE Holland America Line

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Combination brings agent-powered automation, continuous assessment and runtime control to Collibra, helping enterprises automate governance and enforce AI policies, regulations and standards across the AI lifecycle.

NEW YORK, Oct. 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Collibra, the enterprise AI control plane, today announced the acquisition of trail ML, a Munich-based AI governance company founded in 2023 by Anna Spitznagel, Nikolaus Pinger and Sven Hölzel.

As organizations deploy more AI systems and autonomous agents, governance has to keep pace. Understanding which policies, regulations, and standards apply is no longer enough. Organizations must continuously determine which controls apply, verify their effectiveness, and enforce them as AI interacts with enterprise data, systems, and tools.

Together, Collibra and trail ML will help organizations automate this work and turn AI governance policies into continuous action. Collibra provides the enterprise context and control organizations need to govern AI across data, models, applications and agents. trail ML adds agent-powered automation that can analyze evidence, determine applicable requirements, assess controls, identify gaps and automate governance workflows.

"AI governance cannot become another manual process that slows organizations down as AI scales," said Felix Van de Maele, Co-founder and CEO of Collibra. "trail ML brings powerful automation to Collibra's context and control. For Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) teams, that means less manual work assessing controls and maintaining evidence, and a better way to keep pace with rapidly changing AI environments. Together, we can make governance continuous and operational."

Automating governance from assessment to enforcement

trail ML agents can analyze the context surrounding an AI system, determine applicable frameworks and controls, and assess whether controls are in place and effective. This helps organizations operationalize requirements across regulations and standards such as the EU AI Act, ISO 42001 and the NIST AI Risk Management Framework.

As supporting evidence changes, assessments can be triggered again, helping organizations move from manual, point-in-time assessments toward a continuously updated view of their governance and compliance posture.

AI incidents increasingly start with agents taking actions, not models giving answers. trail ML's runtime capabilities close that gap, enforcing Collibra policies directly where agents run and blocking actions that violate them before they happen.

"We founded trail ML because we believe AI governance has to be automated and operational," said Anna Spitznagel, Co-founder and CEO of trail ML. "By combining trail ML's automation and runtime capabilities with Collibra's enterprise context, governance and reach, we can help organizations move faster with AI, safely and at scale."

Collibra and trail ML are united by the same mission: helping organizations put AI to work faster, with the confidence to scale it safely. The acquisition advances Collibra's vision as the enterprise AI control plane that makes this possible.

About Collibra

Collibra is the enterprise AI control plane. Built over eighteen years of ontology engineering, it governs context and control across any data, any model and any agent for AI leaders who need certainty at the speed of AI. A 5x Forrester Wave Leader and 2x Gartner Magic Quadrant Leader, Collibra serves more than 700 customers, including 78 of the Fortune 500, and governs more than 2 billion assets. To learn more, visit collibra.com and follow us on LinkedIn, X, Facebook and Instagram.

SOURCE Collibra

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Modernized, clinical‑strength omega‑3 line delivers an improved daily wellness experience with greater transparency, premium sourcing and science-backed potency

PITTSBURGH, Oct. 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- GNC, the global leader in health and wellness, has relaunched its core omega-3 assortment under the new GNC Omega platform, a complete modernization of the company's most trusted and established categories.

Designed to meet the evolving expectations of today's wellness consumer, the renovated portfolio combines premium omega-3 nutrition with improved product architecture, enhanced transparency, elevated quality standards, and a more intuitive shopping experience. The portfolio is anchored by GNC Triple Strength Fish Oil Ultra, a premium supplement designed to eliminate the tradeoffs consumers have long accepted from the category and deliver 1,000 mg combined EPA + DHA per serving.

"Consumers are more informed than ever about what they put into their bodies, and they expect greater transparency, higher quality standards, and products that fit seamlessly into their daily lives," said Rachel Jones, Chief Merchandising & Science Officer at GNC. "Our new omega-3 portfolio was built to deliver exactly that. We've taken everything consumers trust about fish oil and elevated it through better sourcing, clearer communication of potency, enhanced certifications, and an improved overall experience."

The GNC Omega portfolio exceeds industry standards for quality, purity and potency. The new line is naturally lemon flavored, sized for easier swallowing with a compact single‑softgel option (Triple Strength Fish Oil Ultra 1000mg) or an even smaller double-softgel option (Triple Strength Fish Oil Ultra Mini 1000mg), and goes through an advanced purification and manufacturing process that minimizes fishy aftertaste by reducing oxidation and sensory compounds. The formula is IFOS® third‑party tested and certified for potency and purity, MSC® certified for sustainable sourcing, and made from fully traceable wild‑caught Alaskan pollock from the Bering Sea. The AlaskaOmega® sourcing guarantees a single-sourced ingredient processed within hours of catch at a GMP‑certified U.S. facility.

"In the past, consumers often had to navigate confusing product names, unclear potency disclosures, and significant differences in quality standards across the category," said Rachel Jones. "With GNC Omega, we've created a simpler, more transparent platform that empowers consumers to make informed choices and build confidence in their daily omega-3 routine."

Consumers understand that omega-3s are foundational to overall wellness, supporting everything from heart and brain health to joint, eye, and everyday well-being. GNC Omega is designed to help close the gap between knowledge of benefits and long-term compliance by removing the three biggest barriers – taste, pill size and trust. Through the reinvention of GNC Omega, they have created more than an updated assortment. They have built a scalable innovation platform that allows them to continue advancing fatty acid nutrition through new technologies, emerging science, and solutions that meet the changing needs of today's health-conscious consumer.

GNC Triple Strength Fish Oil Ultra products under the GNC Omega portfolio includes both full-size and mini softgel formats across seven SKUs. It can be found at GNC stores nationwide and on GNC.com starting at $24.99 MSRP, with additional product innovations and line extensions planned through 2027. To learn more, visit www.gnc.com.

About GNC

GNC is an American-run global leader in health and wellness delivering science-based products and solutions designed to help consumers Live Well. With the vast majority of GNC branded products being manufactured in the United States using global sourced ingredients, GNC touches consumers worldwide by providing its products and services through company-owned retail locations, domestic and international franchise locations, digital commerce and strong wholesale and retail partnerships across the globe. GNC's diversified, multi-channel business model has worldwide reach and a well-recognized, trusted brand. By combining exceptional innovation, product development capabilities and an extensive global distribution network, GNC manages a best-in-class product portfolio. Visit www.gnc.com for more information.

SOURCE GNC

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PEPSI® CELEBRATES NEW YORK'S REIGNING CHAMPS, THE NEW YORK KNICKS AND THEIR FANS, WITH "CHAMPIONS DESERVE PEPSI" AHEAD OF SEASON TIP-OFF

Pepsi teams up with Knicks legend John Starks to introduce limited-edition championship can and ticket sweepstakes that gives Knicks fans a chance to see the team inside The Garden, as new fan billboards hit NYC streets.

- Pepsi is celebrating the New York Knicks' historic championship and the fans who fueled the run with "Champions Deserve Pepsi," a new campaign launching ahead of the 2026–27 season.

- Beginning October 5, limited-edition 16 oz PEPSI® x Knicks Championship cans, along with limited-edition 20 oz PEPSI® and PEPSI® Zero Sugar x Knicks bottles, will be available at participating retailers across the Tri-State region, with fans having the chance to win Knicks tickets.

- Knicks legend John Starks surprised select fans with an early look at the commemorative cans, with new billboards featuring real fan imagery from the playoffs set to hit NYC streets around season tip-off at The Garden.

PURCHASE, N.Y., Oct. 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, PEPSI® and the New York Knicks are tipping off the 2026–27 season with Champions Deserve Pepsi, a new campaign honoring the team's historic title and the fans who were there every step of the way.

Starting today, the campaign will hit shelves across New York with limited-edition 16 oz PEPSI® x Knicks Championship cans and limited-edition 20 oz PEPSI® and PEPSI® Zero Sugar x Knicks bottles. Closer to the Knicks' season tip-off at The Garden, new digital billboards featuring real fan imagery from the playoffs will hit NYC streets.

At the center of Champions Deserve Pepsi is a limited-edition 16 oz PEPSI® x Knicks Championship can, available alongside limited-edition 20 oz PEPSI® and PEPSI® Zero Sugar x Knicks bottles at participating retailers across the Tri-State region. Fans can scan the QR code at point of sale for a chance to win Knicks tickets. In a nod to the 94–90 Game 5 victory that secured the 2026 Championship title, 94 fans will have a chance to visit The Garden, one for every winning point*, through an exclusive sweepstakes program.

"Once a Knick, always a Knick, but the real honor is being part of this fan base for life," said John Starks, former New York Knicks shooting guard. "New York fans bring an energy you can't find anywhere else, and they deserve to be at The Garden celebrating this team. I love that Pepsi is putting fans first and giving even more of them a chance to experience it for themselves."

FROM OUTSIDE THE GARDEN TO INSIDE IT

Throughout the playoffs, PEPSI® put New York's Knicks fandom front and center with Knicks Fans Deserve Pepsi, a collector-can scavenger hunt across the five boroughs, and WE OUTSIDE, a real-time campaign which turned photos of Knicks fans from games 3 and 4 into billboards across New York.

Now, heading into the Knicks' championship season, Champions Deserve Pepsi brings familiar faces back to NYC streets and select fans inside The Garden, where John Starks surprised them with an early look at the new commemorative championship cans.

"The fans have inspired this campaign from the beginning," said Gustavo Reyna, VP of Marketing, PEPSI®. "Every step of the way, we've seen how they were showing up for the Knicks and found new ways to show up for them. Champions Deserve Pepsi is the next expression of that, celebrating an incredible championship and the New Yorkers who were there for it."

As the official soft drink partner of Madison Square Garden, PEPSI® has been part of Knicks game days since 2018.

*NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Void Where Prohibited. Sweepstakes ends on 12/31/2026. US legal residents who are 18 years of age or older and are residents of NY, CT, NJ and residing within a 150-mile radius of Madison Square Garden, NY. Subject to official rules at www.pepsipromos.com/Knicks.

About PepsiCo

PepsiCo products are enjoyed by consumers more than one billion times a day in more than 200 countries and territories around the world. PepsiCo generated nearly $94 billion in net revenue in 2025, driven by a complementary beverage and convenient foods portfolio that includes Lay's, Doritos, Cheetos, Gatorade, Pepsi-Cola, Mountain Dew, Quaker, and SodaStream. PepsiCo's product portfolio includes a wide range of enjoyable foods and drinks, including many iconic brands that generate more than $1 billion each in estimated annual retail sales.

Guiding PepsiCo is our vision to Be the Global Leader in Beverages and Convenient Foods by Winning with pep+ (PepsiCo Positive). pep+ is our strategic end-to-end transformation that places sustainability at the center of our business strategy, seeking to drive growth and build a stronger, more resilient future for PepsiCo and the communities where we operate. For more information, visit www.pepsico.com, and follow on X (Twitter), Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn @PepsiCo.

SOURCE PepsiCo Beverages North America

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