CHARLOTTE, N.C., Oct. 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK) today declared a quarterly cash dividend on its common stock of $1.085 per share. This dividend is payable on Dec. 16, 2026, to shareholders of record at the close of business on Nov. 13, 2026.

The company also declared a quarterly cash dividend on its Series A preferred stock of $359.375 per share payable on Dec. 16, 2026, to shareholders of record at the close of business on Nov. 13, 2026. This is equivalent to $0.359375 per depositary share.

Duke Energy has paid a cash dividend on its common stock for 100 consecutive years.

Duke Energy

Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America's largest energy holding companies. The company's electric utilities serve 8.7 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 55,700 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas utilities serve 1.6 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Ohio and Kentucky.

Duke Energy is executing an energy modernization strategy, keeping customer value at the forefront as it invests in electric grid upgrades and efficient generation resources to strengthen the system and serve growing energy needs.

More information is available at duke-energy.com. Follow Duke Energy on X, LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok and Facebook for stories about the people and innovations powering its communities.

Media Contact: Gillian Moore

24-hour: 800.559.3853

Analyst Contact: Mike Switzer

Office: 704.382.6473

SOURCE Duke Energy

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The article explains how early consultation with a builder can help evaluate land suitability, site conditions, and construction costs before purchasing property.

LEXINGTON, S.C., Oct. 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Do prospective homeowners need to own land before hiring a custom home builder in Lexington, South Carolina? HelloNation addresses that question in a HelloNation article that explores how early collaboration with a builder can help guide land selection and project planning.

The HelloNation article explains that many buyers assume they must purchase land before contacting a custom home builder Lexington SC professional. In practice, involving a builder earlier in the process can offer important advantages. Builders can help assess potential properties and identify factors that may influence construction feasibility, costs, and design options before a purchase is finalized.

One of the first considerations discussed in the article is the building potential of the land itself. Not all lots offer the same conditions for residential construction. Soil composition, grading, and topography can significantly affect how easily a home can be built. The article notes that a lot that appears ideal at first glance may require extensive excavation, retaining walls, or drainage work, all of which can increase project costs.

Evaluating site conditions before purchasing land can help homeowners avoid unexpected challenges later in the building process. According to the article, builders can conduct early assessments to determine whether the lot can accommodate the desired home design. Home Building Experts explain that this evaluation helps identify potential construction limitations and provides a clearer picture of the work required to prepare the site.

Utility access is another major factor that may influence whether a lot is suitable for a custom home Lexington SC project. The article describes how water, sewer, electricity, and internet service are not always readily available on undeveloped parcels of land. Connecting a property to these utilities may involve additional infrastructure work, which can increase both cost and project timelines. Builders who understand local infrastructure can help estimate the feasibility and expense of utility installation before a buyer commits to purchasing a property.

Lot shape and size can also affect design possibilities and construction costs. The HelloNation article explains that narrow or irregularly shaped parcels may limit the placement and layout of a home. Builders can provide guidance on how to adapt architectural plans to fit the property while still meeting the homeowner's functional and aesthetic goals. This type of planning ensures that the home design works within the constraints of the lot.

Budget planning is another reason the article recommends early consultation with a custom home builder Lexington SC professional. Builders can provide preliminary construction estimates that account for site preparation, grading, permits, and other development requirements tied to a specific lot. This information helps prospective homeowners determine whether a property aligns with their financial plans before making a purchase.

The article also discusses how early collaboration can streamline the permitting and planning process. Builders with experience in Lexington understand local zoning regulations, setback requirements, and building codes that influence how a home can be placed on a lot. Home Building Experts explain that reviewing these regulations early can prevent costly redesigns or delays later in the project.

Working with a builder during the land selection stage also allows homeowners to compare multiple properties more effectively. By reviewing site conditions, infrastructure access, and potential construction challenges, buyers can make more informed decisions about which lot best supports their vision for a custom home.

The HelloNation article emphasizes that purchasing land first is not always required when planning a custom build. Instead, involving a builder early in the process can create a smoother path from property selection to construction. Evaluating grading requirements, infrastructure availability, and lot suitability ahead of time helps homeowners avoid surprises and better align their plans with realistic construction expectations.

Do You Need Land Before Hiring a Custom Home Builder? features insights from Jennifer L. Gerben Nettles, Home Building Expert of Lexington, 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 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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/C O R R E C T I O N -- DeFi Technologies Inc./

In the news release, DeFi Technologies Provides September Corporate Update: Valour Reports $640.2 Million in AUM, Up 61.2% from Q2 End, issued 01-Oct-2026 by DeFi Technologies Inc. over PR Newswire, we are advised by the company that changes have been made. The complete, corrected release follows, with additional details at the end:

DeFi Technologies Provides September Corporate Update: Valour Reports $640.2 Million in AUM, Up 61.2% from Q2 End

- AUM growth: Valour reported $640.2 million in assets under management as of September 25, 2026, up approximately $243 million, or 61.2%, from $397.2 million at June 30, 2026.

- Continued investor demand: Valour continues to see net inflows month over month. Higher AUM expands the asset base available to generate fee and yield income, while trading activity creates additional revenue opportunities. Inflow figures will be provided with the Company's quarterly financial results.

- Expansion into actively managed funds: Valour launched Valour Funds SPC and its first hedge fund, Smart Crypto Fund SP, while continuing development of additional fund structures, Valour Custody and its UCITS platform.

- Balance sheet strength: As of June 30, 2026, DeFi Technologies held approximately $135 million across cash, stablecoins, STRC/RWUSD, treasury investments, and its venture portfolio, with no debt, providing financial flexibility to support operations and invest in growth.

TORONTO, Oct. 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- DeFi Technologies Inc. (the "Company" or "DeFi Technologies") (Nasdaq: DEFT) (CBOE CA: DEFI) (GR: R9B) (B3: DEFT31), a financial technology company bridging the gap between traditional capital markets and decentralized finance ("DeFi"),) today provided its September corporate update, highlighting growth in assets under management ("AUM"), continued net inflows and increased trading activity at Valour, its asset management business.

Valour reported assets under management of $640.2 million as of September 25, 2026, up from $397.2 million on June 30, 2026. This represents an increase of $243 million, or approximately 61.2%, since the end of the second quarter. AUM was also approximately 64% above its cycle low of around $390 million.

Valour continues to see month-over-month net inflows. These inflows add investor capital to the platform, while higher AUM provides a larger base from which Valour can generate revenue. The Company will provide inflow figures with its quarterly financial results.

How Valour Turns Growth Into Revenue

Valour's revenue model connects asset growth with trading activity. Rising digital asset prices increase the value of assets held in its products and can encourage more trading and new investor inflows. Those inflows add to AUM, creating a larger base from which Valour can generate revenue.

Valour monetizes that activity in three main ways:

- Management fees: Applicable products earn fees based on the assets they hold.

- Staking and lending income: Eligible digital assets can generate staking or lending income, where permitted by the relevant product structure.

- Trading flow: Market making and trading related to Valour's products create additional revenue opportunities as investors buy and sell.

The flywheel is straightforward: rising asset values and net inflows expand AUM, while greater trading activity creates more opportunities to earn revenue.

As revenue grows, costs do not necessarily increase at the same pace, creating the potential for higher margins. The outcome depends on product mix, fee levels, staking yields, trading conditions, and operating costs.

With reported AUM of $640 million as of September 25, 2026, up 61.2% from $397.2 million at June 30, 2026, Valour has a larger asset base to monetize through this model.

Valour's Top 10 Digital Assets by AUM

As of September 25, 2026, Valour's ten largest digital assets by associated product AUM were:

These ten assets accounted for approximately 89.8% of Valour's total reported AUM.

Figures aggregate AUM across products referencing each asset, including yield-bearing, leveraged and short products where applicable. They represent product AUM, rather than net underlying asset exposure, and exclude look-through allocations from multi-asset basket products.

Valour Funds and Smart Crypto Fund SP

On September 21, 2026, Valour announced the launch of Valour Funds SPC and Smart Crypto Fund SP, its first hedge fund for professional and qualified investors.

Smart Crypto Fund SP combines Valour's infrastructure with a strategy developed and managed by Neuronomics AG, a Swiss portfolio manager in which DeFi Technologies holds a minority interest. The fund is the first hedge fund portfolio within Valour Funds SPC, a Cayman Islands company registered with the Cayman Islands Monetary Authority.

Neuronomics' AI models assess price, volume and other market data to guide allocations across liquid digital assets. The strategy can adjust positions as conditions change and seeks to reduce exposure when signals weaken or assessed risk increases. Position sizes are subject to risk budgets, concentration limits and portfolio exposure controls.

This expands Valour's offering to include an actively managed strategy alongside its exchange traded products.

Additional Fund Structures, Custody and Platform Development

The Company continues to develop additional fund structures and investment strategies, with Smart Crypto Fund SP representing the first of several planned hedge funds under Valour Funds.

These offerings are intended for distribution through fund platforms and direct institutional relationships, with international marketing subject to applicable local requirements. They create an additional channel for reaching professional investors beyond Valour's exchange-listed ETPs.

The Company continues development work on Valour Custody and a proposed UCITS platform, consistent with its previously disclosed priorities. These initiatives remain subject to development requirements and applicable regulatory processes and approvals. They are intended to strengthen the infrastructure supporting Valour's business and broaden the investment solutions available to clients.

Further details will be announced as development and applicable regulatory processes progress.

Balance Sheet

As reported in its Q2 2026 financial results, DeFi Technologies held approximately $135 million across cash, stablecoins, treasury investments and its venture portfolio with no debt as of June 30, 2026. This comprised $70.7 million in combined cash and USDT/USDC, $19.1 million in STRC/RWUSD holdings, $30.0 million in digital asset treasury holdings and $15.1 million in venture and private investments. These resources provided financial flexibility to support the Company's existing operations, invest in new products and infrastructure, and pursue strategic opportunities.

Management Commentary

"AUM has increased by approximately $243 million from the end of June, and we continue to see net inflows month over month," said Johan Wattenström, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of DeFi Technologies. "That gives us a larger asset base from which to earn fees and yield, while trading activity creates additional revenue opportunities. Our focus is on converting that growth into stronger business results.

"At the same time, we are broadening the business. Smart Crypto Fund is our first step into actively managed hedge funds, with additional fund structures, custody and a proposed UCITS platform under development. These initiatives are intended to give us more ways to serve investors and build revenue alongside our established ETP business."

Nasdaq Minimum Bid Price Compliance Update

The Company reaffirms the additional compliance period announced on September 3, 2026. Nasdaq granted DeFi Technologies a further 180 calendar days, through March 1, 2027, to address the minimum bid price deficiency under Listing Rule 5550(a)(2).

The extension itself did not change the listing or trading of the Company's common shares on the Nasdaq Capital Market under "DEFT."

As outlined in that announcement, regaining compliance requires a closing bid price of at least US$1.00 per share for a minimum of ten consecutive business days during the extension, followed by written confirmation from Nasdaq.

The Company remains focused on addressing the deficiency and intends to monitor its bid price and evaluate available options. The extension does not constitute restored compliance, and there is no assurance that the Company will regain compliance within the allotted period or maintain all continued listing requirements.

About DeFi Technologies

DeFi Technologies Inc. (Nasdaq: DEFT) (CBOE CA: DEFI) (GR: R9B) (B3:DEFT31) is a financial technology company building for the convergence of traditional capital markets and decentralized finance ("DeFi"). As a publicly listed and vertically integrated digital asset platform, DeFi Technologies provides familiar, simple, secure, and regulated access to the digital asset economy through investment products, trading and liquidity infrastructure, research, and strategic capital deployment. Its business includes Valour, a leading issuer of regulated digital asset ETPs; Stillman Digital, an institutional-grade digital asset trading and liquidity platform; and DeFi Alpha, the Company's internal business line focused on opportunistic trading, arbitrage, and other capital markets strategies. With deep expertise across capital markets and emerging technologies, DeFi Technologies is building the gateway between traditional finance and the future of digital assets. Follow DeFi Technologies on LinkedIn and X/Twitter, and for more details, visit https://defi.tech/

DeFi Technologies Subsidiaries

About Valour

Valour Inc.

The Chicago-area manufacturer's custom corrugated, branded packaging and point-of-purchase display capabilities support SupplyOne's strategic growth initiatives.

NEWTOWN SQUARE, Pa., Oct. 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- SupplyOne, Inc., a leading distributor of custom corrugated and value-added packaging solutions in North America, announced today that it has acquired Packaging Design Corporation, a custom corrugated packaging manufacturer based in Burr Ridge, Illinois.

Founded in 1968, Packaging Design Corporation will continue under the leadership of owner Scott Jones post-closing. In addition to being a comprehensive provider of custom corrugated and branded packaging, Packaging Design Corporation specializes in point-of-purchase displays, e-commerce packaging, retail and specialty packaging, and industrial packaging. The company combines innovative structural design with in-house manufacturing capabilities to deliver creative, cost-effective packaging solutions to customers throughout the Chicago area, Midwest and across the country.

"The addition of Packaging Design Corporation further strengthens our presence in the important Chicago area while adding additional capabilities in branded packaging and point-of-purchase displays," said Todd Renehan, President and CEO of SupplyOne. "Packaging Design has built a strong reputation over nearly six decades by combining innovative packaging design, manufacturing expertise and a commitment to understanding its customers' needs. This customer-first approach aligns closely with SupplyOne and makes Packaging Design Corporation a natural fit for our growing organization," added Mr. Renehan.

"Joining forces with SupplyOne provides an exciting opportunity to build upon Packaging Design Corporation's long history while expanding the resources and capabilities we can offer our customers," said Scott Jones, owner of Packaging Design Corporation. "SupplyOne shares our commitment to quality, innovation and customer service, and we look forward to beginning this next chapter together."

This transaction represents SupplyOne's 49th acquisition and its second Chicago-area acquisition, further strengthening the company's presence in the Midwest. The addition of Packaging Design Corporation builds upon SupplyOne's prior acquisition of Wertheimer Box, which closed at the end of 2025.

About SupplyOne

SupplyOne is a value-added packaging distributor with custom corrugated, foam, wood and plastics converting capabilities. Present in over 60 locations across the United States and Canada, SupplyOne delivers tailored products and solutions that help businesses transform and thrive. With a commitment to people first, we prioritize strong partnerships, ensuring each customer receives a unique, personalized experience. Our agility and growth focus drive us to continuously adapt to market needs, while our passion to serve fuels innovative, cost-effective packaging solutions. From optimizing supply chains to enhancing brand presence, we provide expertise and resources that empower businesses to scale with confidence. At SupplyOne, we don't just deliver packaging—we deliver success.

About Packaging Design Corporation

Packaging Design Corporation is a custom packaging manufacturer headquartered in Burr Ridge, Illinois. Founded in 1968, the family-owned company specializes in custom branded packaging, e-commerce and subscription packaging, retail and specialty packaging, industrial packaging, and point-of-purchase displays. Packaging Design Corporation combines experienced in-house design with advanced manufacturing capabilities to deliver creative, high-quality packaging solutions tailored to its customers' needs. By evaluating the entire packaging and production process, the company helps customers reduce costs, improve operational efficiency, and enhance the presentation of their products.

SOURCE SupplyOne Inc.

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KSAT Advances Global Lunar Communications Network

Construction is progressing near Yuma, Arizona, on KSAT's third lunar communications ground station

DENVER, Oct. 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Kongsberg Satellite Services (KSAT), a leading provider of ground station networks and satellite operations, today announced continued progress on KSAT Lunar, the world's first commercial lunar communications network.

Construction is progressing at KSAT's site near Yuma, Arizona, marking the first 20-meter antenna in the United States to serve the KSAT Lunar network, designed to provide continuous lunar communications coverage. The new site complements systems nearing completion in Western Australia and rapidly progressing in Spain, demonstrating KSAT's steady progress.

The Arizona site was selected following a rigorous evaluation of environmental, technical, and economic factors to identify the optimal location capable of providing reliable and resilient communications services for robotic and human spaceflight missions. This location can accommodate additional antennas to satisfy future demand as the lunar economy grows.

KSAT announced its investment in a dedicated lunar communications network in March 2022 and subsequently procured three 20-meter-diameter antennas designed to meet NASA's Lunar Exploration Ground Sites (LEGS) specifications. "KSAT is demonstrating that we can turn our vision of the lunar economy into operational reality," said Dan Adams, General Manager of KSAT, Inc. "With all three sites advancing steadily, KSAT is on track to deliver a global lunar communications network in time to support NASA, international partners, and commercial customers as lunar activity accelerates."

Testing will soon begin at KSAT's site in Western Australia, while assembly of the 20-meter antenna is underway in Spain. In Arizona, site preparation and foundation developments are in-work, keeping progress on track.

Together, the three strategically positioned sites will form a global network designed to provide reliable, resilient, and continuous communications connectivity between the Moon and Earth.

About KSAT Lunar: 

KSAT Lunar is the world's first commercial end-to-end solution for every stage of lunar mission operations. Supported by KSAT's lunar ground network, with 20-meter-class dedicated antennas, KSAT will meet the increasing demand for reliable, high-bandwidth communications for lunar and cis-lunar missions. The technical capabilities of our services encompass a comprehensive range of state-of-the-art equipment and advanced functionalities designed to ensure seamless communication, robust data transmission, and efficient control of spacecraft operations. KSAT's Lunar capability is compliant with NASA's Lunar Exploration Ground Segment (LEGS) specification for full transmit and receive in X- and Ka-band.

About KSAT: 

Kongsberg Satellite Services (KSAT) is the leading provider of Ground Station Services, Earth Observation Services, and Satellite Operations Services. KSAT operates the largest commercial satellite ground station network worldwide, including facilities in Svalbard and Antarctica. KSAT delivers mission-critical infrastructure for customers in government, civil, and commercial space in the United States, as well as the global space industry.   

Media Contact:

Miri Casey, Marketing & PR Lead of KSAT Inc.

Miri.Casey@ksat,no 

SOURCE Kongsberg Satellite Services

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Meghan Shue, Carly Nathanson and Mary-Ammielle Stone selected as part of the publication's 2026 annual honors program

BUFFALO, N.Y., Oct. 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- M&T Bank (NYSE: MTB) and its subsidiary, Wilmington Trust, announced today that three of its leaders will receive awards as part of this year's American Banker "Most Powerful Women in Banking" program and celebration held in New York City later this month.

This year's awardees include:

- Meghan Shue – EVP, Chief Investment Strategist for Wilmington Trust, the bank's Wealth Management and Institutional Services division, was included in the publication's "Most Powerful Women in Banking: Women to Watch" list. Meghan has been honored by the magazine in previous years.

- Carly Nathanson – SVP, Senior Investment Advisor for Wilmington Trust, was included in the "Most Powerful Women in Banking NEXT" category, which celebrates rising and talented women at earlier stages of their career.

- Mary-Ammielle Stone – SVP, Small Business Lending Manager for M&T, was also included as part of the "NEXT" program.

For both Carly Nathanson and Mary-Ammielle Stone, this is their first inclusion in the American Banker honors.

Now in its 24th year, "The Most Powerful Women in Banking" awards program recognizes women whose leadership, performance and impact are critical for the banking and financial services sector.

The "Most Powerful Women in Banking NEXT" award recognizes high-achieving women 40 years of age and under who have successfully executed major projects, initiated meaningful change or are positioned to play a critical role for their employers and the industry.

"All three of our 2026 award recipients are well-deserving of these awards," said Kevin Pearson, M&T Bank's Vice Chairman. "We have established a great tradition of celebrating our women leaders here at M&T and Wilmington Trust. We are proud of Meghan, Carly and Mary-Ammielle and look forward to watching their accomplishments as they continue to do great things."

Honorees will be recognized on October 22, 2026 at a dinner and ceremony at the American Museum of Natural History in New York City.

To learn more about The Most Powerful Women in Banking and the 2026 honorees, visit: https://the-most-powerful-women-in-banking.americanbanker.com/the-most-powerful-women-in-banking/

ABOUT M&T BANK

M&T Bank is a financial holding company headquartered in Buffalo, NY. M&T's principal banking subsidiary, M&T Bank, provides banking products and services with a branch and ATM network spanning the eastern U.S. from Maine to Virginia and Washington, D.C. Trust-related services are provided in select markets in the U.S. and abroad by M&T's Wilmington Trust-affiliated companies and by M&T Bank. For more information about M&T Bank, visit www.mtb.com.

ABOUT WILMINGTON TRUST

Wilmington Trust's Wealth Management offers a wide array of personal trust, planning, fiduciary, asset management, private banking, and family office services designed to help high-net-worth individuals and families grow, preserve, and transfer wealth. Wilmington Trust focuses on serving families with whom it can build long-term relationships, many of which span multiple generations.

Wilmington Trust also provides Corporate and Institutional Services for clients internationally. It has clients in all 50 states and numerous countries, with offices throughout the United States and internationally in London, Dublin and Frankfurt. For more information, visit www.wilmingtontrust.com.

ABOUT AMERICAN BANKER

Through independent journalism, expert analysis, proprietary research and benchmarking, American Banker delivers the information financial leaders need to navigate critical opportunities and risks — AI and technology innovation, policy and regulation, M&A and risk and resilience. American Banker connects a financial services community of more than 950,000 professionals in person and online.

Applicants for American Banker awards must be employed by a private-sector bank or financial services company. Applicants who work in the U.S., Canada, or western Europe OR whose firms are based in the U.S., Canada or Western Europe, will be considered for individual recognition. There are no fees to apply.

From American Banker: "The Most Powerful Women in Banking comprises five distinct rankings: Banking, Finance, Women to Watch, Top Teams and NEXT. For the Banking, Finance and Women to Watch lists, quantitative data such as year-over-year 2025 and Q1 2026 financial performance (or similar metrics for roles without P&L responsibility) and qualitative factors such as new technology investment, product development, gains in operational efficiencies, and demonstrated commitment to the employees, customers and communities they serve are considered to determine rank … The NEXT list ranks leaders aged 40 and below based on their growing contributions to their banks."

Learn more at americanbanker.com.

MEDIA CONTACT

Patrick Fitzgibbons, Senior Public Relations Manager, Wilmington Trust, [email protected] 

Wilmington Trust is a registered service mark used in connection with various fiduciary and non-fiduciary services offered by certain subsidiaries of M&T Bank Corporation including, but not limited to, Manufacturers & Traders Trust Company (M&T Bank), Wilmington Trust Company (WTC) operating in Delaware only, Wilmington Trust, N.A. (WTNA), Wilmington Trust Investment Advisors, Inc. (WTIA), Wilmington Funds Management Corporation (WFMC), Wilmington Trust Asset Management, LLC (WTAM), and Wilmington Trust Investment Management, LLC (WTIM). Such services include trustee, custodial, agency, investment management, and other services. International corporate and institutional services are offered through M&T Bank Corporation's international subsidiaries. Loans, credit cards, retail and business deposits, and other business and personal banking services and products are offered by M&T Bank. Member FDIC.

This press release is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended as an offer or solicitation for the sale of any financial product. Investors should seek financial advice regarding the suitability of investment strategies based on their objectives, financial situations, and particular needs.

Wilmington Trust is not authorized to and does not provide legal, accounting, or tax advice.

Investing involves risks, and you may incur a profit or a loss. There is no assurance that any investment, financial, or estate planning strategy will be successful.

Third-party trademarks and brands are the property of their respective owners.Third parties referenced herein are independent companies and are not affiliated with M&T Bank or Wilmington Trust. Listing them does not suggest a recommendation or endorsement by Wilmington Trust.

©2026 M&T Bank and its affiliates and subsidiaries. All rights reserved.

SOURCE M&T Bank Corporation

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Smithsonian museum director brings national leadership and deep knowledge of the Museum to its next chapter

DENVER, Oct. 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The Denver Museum of Nature & Science Board of Trustees has appointed Kirk Johnson, Sant Director of the Smithsonian's National Museum of Natural History since 2012, as the Museum's next president and CEO. Johnson's first day as president and CEO is Feb. 1, 2027. George Sparks will remain president and CEO until he retires at the end of January 2027.

At the Smithsonian, Johnson leads one of the Smithsonian's most visited museums and oversees the world's largest natural history collection, nearly 149 million specimens and artifacts. The museum welcomes 4 million visitors annually. During his tenure, it opened the David H. Koch Hall of Fossils – Deep Time, a major exhibition connecting the history of life on Earth with humanity's future.

The Board chose Johnson for the experience he brings to the Museum's next chapter. He has guided a major scientific institution, stewarded globally significant collections, served millions of visitors and made complex science accessible to public audiences. He also knows this Museum and Colorado deeply.

"Kirk is both well known to this Museum and respected on the international stage," said Jena Hausmann, chair of the Museum's Board of Trustees. "He has spent 14 years leading one of the world's great natural history museums, and that experience is exactly what our next chapter calls for. We are excited for the expertise he'll bring as he guides the Museum into its future."

Johnson spent more than two decades at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science before leaving in 2012, rising to chief curator and vice president of research and collections. He co-led the landmark Snowmastodon excavation near Snowmass Village.

"The Denver Museum of Nature & Science shaped me as a scientist, a science communicator and a museum leader," Johnson said. "I am delighted to be coming home, and I am excited to reunite with the people who make this Museum so extraordinary."

Johnson has written 17 books and presented many television documentaries, including the NOVA programs "Making North America," "Polar Extremes" and "Ice Age Footprints." He is a fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science. He earned a bachelor's degree from Amherst College, a master's degree from the University of Pennsylvania and a doctorate from Yale University.

"Kirk was an extraordinary colleague and scientific leader here, and watching him lead the Smithsonian's National Museum of Natural History has been a source of great pride," said George Sparks, the Museum's president and CEO. "He knows this place, he knows this community and he has continued to grow as a leader. I can think of no one better prepared to guide the Museum's next chapter."

A selection committee chaired by trustee Rick Ambrose, who will become chair of the Board of Trustees, led a comprehensive national search with support from Spencer Stuart and evaluated candidates against the Board's approved leadership criteria.

"Our committee set out to find a leader who could honor everything this Museum has built and guide it into its next era," Ambrose said. "Kirk brings a rare combination of deep roots here and proven international leadership."

About the Denver Museum of Nature & Science

The Denver Museum of Nature & Science is the Rocky Mountain region's leading resource for formal and informal science education. Through exhibitions, programs, research and collections, the Museum helps people understand, appreciate and value the natural world. The Museum is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums and receives support from the citizens of the Scientific and Cultural Facilities District. Learn more at dmns.org.

Contact: Maura O'Neal

[email protected], 303-507-5068

SOURCE Denver Museum of Nature & Science

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Certification validates Coretek's enterprise AI governance framework and commitment to delivering secure, transparent, and responsible AI solutions for customers.

FARMINGTON HILLS, Mich., Oct. 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Coretek, a leading AI, cloud, cybersecurity, and managed services solution provider, today announced it has achieved ISO/IEC 42001 certification, the world's first international standard for Artificial Intelligence Management Systems (AIMS). The certification reinforces Coretek's commitment to implementing comprehensive AI governance practices that enable organizations to innovate with confidence while managing risk, security, compliance, and transparency.

As organizations accelerate AI adoption across every aspect of their business, governance has become just as important as innovation. ISO/IEC 42001 establishes a globally recognized framework for managing the development, deployment, monitoring, and continuous improvement of artificial intelligence systems. By achieving certification, Coretek is among the first organizations globally to earn ISO/IEC 42001 certification, demonstrating independently validated AI governance practices aligned with internationally recognized standards.

"AI is rapidly becoming embedded in core business operations, making governance just as critical as innovation," said Michael Swiencki, Chief Operating Officer at Coretek. "Achieving ISO/IEC 42001 demonstrates that we've established the policies, processes, and accountability needed to help organizations deploy AI responsibly at scale. It gives our clients confidence that we're applying the same disciplined governance framework internally that we recommend to them."

The certification validates Coretek's Artificial Intelligence Management System (AIMS), establishing governance processes across the AI lifecycle, including risk management, human oversight, security, continuous monitoring, regulatory alignment, and ongoing improvement. These practices help ensure AI solutions are developed and implemented in a manner that supports business objectives while maintaining ethical, secure, and responsible operations.

As a Microsoft AI Cloud Partner and trusted advisor to enterprise organizations, Coretek helps customers modernize operations, strengthen cybersecurity, and accelerate business transformation through Microsoft Azure, Microsoft 365, Microsoft Security, Microsoft Fabric, and Microsoft AI technologies. Achieving ISO/IEC 42001 further strengthens Coretek's ability to help organizations operationalize AI while meeting evolving governance, compliance, and security expectations.

"Responsible AI requires more than strong technology, it requires strong governance," said Tyler Hopperton, Chief Security Officer at Coretek. "ISO/IEC 42001 validates that our AI management system incorporates rigorous oversight, risk management, security, and continuous improvement throughout the AI lifecycle. As regulatory expectations continue to evolve, our clients can move forward knowing they're working with a partner that prioritizes security, transparency, and responsible innovation from day one."

As organizations transition from AI experimentation to enterprise-scale adoption, the need for trusted governance frameworks has never been greater. Coretek's ISO/IEC 42001 certification provides customers with additional assurance that the company's AI-enabled services are backed by internationally recognized management practices designed to promote transparency, accountability, and continual improvement.

About Coretek

Coretek is a leading technology consulting firm specializing in cloud transformation, cybersecurity, AI, and managed services. As a trusted partner to organizations across industries, Coretek helps clients modernize, secure, and optimize their IT environments to drive measurable business outcomes.

SOURCE Coretek

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Combination pairs Labsphere's light generation, control, and measurement platform with Photon Gear's custom lens design, assembly, and interferometric test.

NORTH SUTTON, N.H. and ONTARIO, N.Y., Oct. 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Labsphere, a global leader in photonics, today announced it has acquired Photon Gear, Inc., an Ontario, New York designer and builder of ultra-high-precision custom optical systems and lens assemblies. The acquisition strengthens Labsphere's ability to deliver integrated optical solutions to customers in medical devices, analytical instrumentation, semiconductor, aerospace and defense, and OEM applications.

By incorporating Photon Gear's engineering expertise, Labsphere broadens its capabilities in complex, application-specific optical systems. Customers can now source a designed-to-specification lens assembly, together with the light sources, integrating spheres, and calibration used to qualify it, from a single supplier, shortening design cycles and reducing the number of vendors on a program.

"Photon Gear is a strong strategic fit for Labsphere," said Robert Harrison, President & CEO of Labsphere. "Their expertise in precision optical components and systems complements our capabilities in light generation, control, and measurement. Together, we can help customers create, manage, and measure light with greater accuracy and efficiency. This acquisition advances our vision of delivering complete optical solutions from concept through commercialization."

Founded in 2000, Photon Gear designs, assembles, and characterizes high-precision optical systems, supported by multi-wavelength interferometric test capability. Its lens assemblies are used in semiconductor inspection and processing, medical and clinical instrumentation, metrology, and defense programs.

"Joining Labsphere marks an exciting new chapter for Photon Gear," said Gary Blough, PhD, President & CEO of Photon Gear. "We share a commitment to technical excellence and customer success. By combining our complementary strengths, we can deliver more integrated solutions while expanding into new markets and applications."

Customers will benefit from expanded capabilities, deeper technical expertise, and continued dedication to quality and reliability. Labsphere will maintain continuity across customer relationships, product availability, and service to ensure a seamless transition.

This acquisition reinforces Labsphere's position as a trusted partner for organizations that need to measure any light source, create any spectrum, and reflect any wavelength.

About Labsphere, Inc.

Labsphere, Inc. is a global leader in light sources, measurement systems, calibration, and reflectance solutions. Serving industries including medical devices, aerospace, automotive, and analytical instrumentation, Labsphere combines decades of expertise in integrating spheres, optical coatings, and precision manufacturing to deliver accurate and reliable optical performance.

About Photon Gear

Photon Gear specializes in advanced optical lens design, precision optical assembly, and multi-wavelength interferometric testing, serving semiconductor, scientific and analytical instrumentation, medical device, and aerospace and defense customers.

Media Contact

Maria Wooldridge

Director of Marketing

978-954-3489

[email protected]

SOURCE Labsphere, Inc.

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A 2,297-square-foot boutique at The Gardens on El Paseo will offer activewear apparel, beauty, and wellness products.

PHILADELPHIA, Oct. 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- FP Movement, Free People's renowned activewear brand, is excited to announce the opening of its newest store in Palm Desert, CA, on Thursday, October 1, 2026. The new location expands FP Movement's presence in the community and joins Free People, which opened its neighboring storefront at the shopping center this past July.

The 2,297 gross-square-foot boutique will feature FP Movement's signature collections, including the Never Better, Hot Shot and Field Tripper. Shoppers can explore a range of high-performance activewear, from leggings, bras and tanks to soft, breathable pieces designed to move seamlessly from workouts to everyday wear. The assortment will also include favorites such as the Happiness Runs and Get Your Flirt On Shorts, along with additional pieces designed to support a variety of fitness and lifestyle needs.

FP Movement at Gardens on El Paseo is a completely new space, designed with a modern, light and airy aesthetic. Engineered white oak flooring, warm white and soft pink finishes, and a clean backdrop create an inviting environment that complements the brand's colorful product assortment. The boutique features five curtained fitting rooms with backlit mirrors and adjustable lighting, as well as a common area with a large wall-mounted mirror. A straight wood tambour cashwrap, acrylic iridescent Bhutti logo and two large TVs displaying rotating video content complete the new space.

The boutique is located at 73545 El Paseo Space #1316, Palm Desert, CA 92260. Store hours are Monday through Saturday from 10 AM–8 PM and Sunday from 11 AM–6 PM.

For more information, images, to request an interview, or to discuss a TV opportunity, please email Reese Bracken, [email protected].

ABOUT FP MOVEMENT

Established in 2012 as a category on Free People, FP Movement has been at the forefront of redefining activewear, introducing performance-ready styles that extend beyond the gym. Rooted in community, individuality, and the spirit of #movingtogether. FP Movement's activewear for Hike, Run, Racquet, Studio, and Ski bridges the gap between fashion and function.

In 2020, FP Movement emerged as an independent brand, opening its first standalone store in Los Angeles. The brand currently has 97 stores nationwide, offers online shopping at fpmovement.com, and collaborates with wholesale partners such as DICK'S Sporting Goods and independent fitness studios.

To celebrate our FP Movement location opening in Palm Desert, CA, we're gifting one lucky winner a $500 FP Movement gift card to shop in our new store! Enter here for a chance to win! https://app.viralsweep.com/sweeps/full/3f08cb-237184?framed=1

SOURCE Free People

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