NOVATO, Calif., Sept. 29, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Brayton Purcell LLP is highlighting a recent episode of Bloomberg's Big Take podcast, "Crafting America's Favorite Countertops Is Killing Workers," that brings national attention to the growing artificial stone silicosis crisis affecting artificial stone countertop fabrication workers across the United States.

The episode examines the fatal health risks associated with fabricating artificial stone countertops, a product that has become one of the nation's most popular countertop materials. Through the story of former countertop fabricator Tyler Jordan, Bloomberg explores the devastating impact of artificial stone silicosis, the litigation filed by affected artificial stone fabrication workers, and the ongoing debate regarding responsibility within the industry.

Artificial stone is at least 90% respirable crystalline silica, and the remaining approximately 10% consists of highly toxic dyes, resins, glues, and heavy metals. During fabrication activities such as cutting, grinding, polishing, and shaping slabs, enormous quantities of nano-sized, high-surface area toxic artificial stone dust is released into the air.

When inhaled, these particles penetrate deep into the lungs and become embedded in lung tissue. The resulting inflammation and scarring leads to artificial stone silicosis, a devastating, progressive, incurable, and fatal disease. Unlike many occupational diseases, artificial stone silicosis continues to progress long after exposure has ended.

According to Bloomberg labor reporter Josh Eidelson, artificial stone contains significantly higher levels of crystalline silica than natural stone products. During the podcast, he noted that artificial stone can contain approximately 93% crystalline silica, compared with substantially lower amounts in materials such as marble.

The Bloomberg episode focuses heavily on the experience of Tyler Jordan, who began working in his family's countertop fabrication business after graduating from high school. As artificial stone became an increasingly large part of the shop's work, he spent much of his time fabricating artificial stone slabs.

Jordan recalled that he was told artificial stone was stronger, less porous, and more resistant to staining than natural stone. However, according to the podcast, he and other workers were not warned that artificial stone presented significantly different health risks.

While still in his twenties, Jordan began experiencing severe health problems, including unexplained weight loss, chest pain, back pain, and other symptoms. Following extensive medical testing and a lung biopsy, he was diagnosed with artificial stone silicosis.

The consequences extended beyond lung disease. Jordan later developed autoimmune disease and kidney failure and ultimately received a kidney transplant from his father. His illness forced him to leave the industry and relocate his family.

His story reflects a troubling trend documented by physicians and researchers around the world. While silicosis has existed for centuries, countertop workers who fabricate artificial stone are increasingly being diagnosed at younger ages and experience more severe and rapidly progressing disease than has historically been associated with silica exposure.

Bloomberg reported that thousands of cases of artificial stone silicosis have been identified worldwide. In the United States, workers in their twenties, thirties, and forties have been diagnosed with artificial stone silicosis, raising concerns among physicians, researchers, and public health professionals.

The podcast also examines litigation brought by workers who allege that exposure to silica released during artificial stone fabrication caused artificial stone silicosis and other serious illnesses. Approximately 700 workers throughout the United States have filed lawsuits against companies involved in manufacturing and distribution of artificial stone slabs. Workers allege that artificial stone is an extraordinarily hazardous product, and that the risks associated with artificial stone fabrication were not adequately disclosed. Defendants have denied wrongdoing and continue to maintain that artificial stone can be fabricated safely.

At the same time, policymakers continue to debate how best to respond to the growing crisis. Proposed responses discussed during the podcast range from restrictions on artificial stone fabrication to legislation that would affect certain claims involving manufacturers.

"Bloomberg's reporting highlights the profound impact artificial stone silicosis can have on workers and their families. Many of the individuals being diagnosed are experiencing debilitating lung disease and serious complications at an age when they should be building careers and raising families. As awareness of this occupational disease continues to grow, it is important for affected workers to understand their legal rights and the options that may be available to them," said James Nevin, Partner at Brayton Purcell LLP.

The Bloomberg episode emphasizes that artificial stone silicosis affects far more than a worker's lungs. Careers are cut short, families face financial hardship, and workers confront serious medical complications that affect multiple organ systems and lead to premature death.

To listen to the podcast, visit the Big Take Spotify page.

About Brayton Purcell LLP

Brayton Purcell LLP has devoted decades to representing workers and families affected by occupational diseases and toxic exposures. The firm's accomplished attorneys have extensive experience involving artificial stone silica exposure, occupational lung disease claims, and other complex toxic exposure matters.

For additional information, visit www.braytonlaw.com.

Media Contact

Nolan Lowry

Chief Marketing Officer

[email protected]

(415) 399-3107

Brayton Purcell LLP

www.braytonlaw.com

SOURCE Brayton Purcell LLP

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Markets to Be Open Seven Days a Week; Bruce Markets to Launch First Continuous Weekend U.S. Equities Trading with Strategic Investments Led by PEAK6 and Robinhood

- Bruce Markets to usher in 24/7 U.S. stock trading, pending regulatory review

- Expansion draws on Nasdaq's trading technology and clearing services from Apex Clearing Corporation

- New weekend session expected to go live in the coming months

CHICAGO, Sept. 29, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Bruce Markets LLC, an SEC-registered broker-dealer and operator of Bruce ATS™, today announced a landmark agreement to extend U.S. equity trading throughout the weekend, subject to regulatory review. The initiative is designed to bring continuous 24/7 stock trading to global investors.

To power this expansion, Bruce Markets will leverage new strategic investments from PEAK6 Investments, the majority shareholder, and Robinhood Markets. Apex Fintech Solutions, Fidelity Investments, Nasdaq Ventures, NH Investment & Securities, tastytrade and Webull remain investors.

Bruce Markets will expand its use of Nasdaq's trading technology, while clearing, carrying, and custody services will be provided by Apex Clearing Corporation, a wholly owned subsidiary of Apex Fintech Solutions, Inc.

The agreement marks a major milestone in U.S. equity market structure. By extending the weekend session to enable 24/7 market access, Bruce Markets and its partners will establish the first ever round-the-clock U.S. equity trading ecosystem for global investors. Bruce Markets expects the new weekend session to launch in the coming months.

Jason Wallach, CEO, Bruce Markets: "We are changing the way customers can access U.S. equities and finally ushering in true 24/7 trading. Market-moving news does not wait for Monday's open, and soon, neither will investors. Together with our partners, we are breaking down the limitations of traditional market structure and redefining how the world trades."

Jenny Just, Co-Founder and Managing Partner, PEAK6 Investments: "The world doesn't take weekends off, and now neither will the markets. This is the end of the five-day market. For the first time, markets will keep moving with the people, and Bruce Markets is here to lead that change."

Steve Quirk, Chief Brokerage Officer, Robinhood: "Market-moving news can break at any moment, including over the weekend. With 24/7 trading, Robinhood customers will soon be able to trade equities around the clock, seven days a week, so they can manage their portfolios in real time and trade on their own schedule."

Magnus Haglind, Head of Capital Markets Technology, Nasdaq: "Always-on markets demand resilient, flexible and scalable infrastructure. Our trading technology gives Bruce Markets a proven foundation to extend resilient, transparent market access throughout the weekend."

William Capuzzi, CEO, Apex Fintech Solutions: "Apex continues to modernize market infrastructure, and weekend trading is a natural next step in that work. We're proud to support Bruce Markets, PEAK6, and Robinhood in delivering it."

ABOUT BRUCE MARKETS

Bruce Markets operates Bruce ATS™, a U.S. equities alternative trading system enabling overnight trading from 8:00 PM to 4:00 AM ET. Underpinned by exchange grade technology and market rules, led by industry veterans and backed by leading firms from across the trading ecosystem, Bruce provides a high-performance, resilient venue that bridges the U.S. after-hours and pre-market sessions. By providing a credible source of after-hours liquidity for brokers and investors and leading the evolution of always-available markets, Bruce brings needed competition to the ecosystem and is redefining after-hours trading worldwide. To learn more, visit www.brucemarkets.com.

Media Contact

Forefront Communications for Bruce Markets

[email protected] 

SOURCE Bruce Markets

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CityUHK achieves all-time high of 70th in THE World University Rankings 2027; Retains top spot in Hong Kong for International Outlook as University stands firmly among world top 100 across four major rankings

HONG KONG, Sept. 29, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- City University of Hong Kong (CityUHK) has achieved its best-ever results in the newly released Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2027, advancing three places to rank 70th globally.

CityUHK demonstrated stellar performance across multiple evaluation metrics, notably retaining the world No. 1 spot in the "Industry" pillar for the fourth consecutive year and remaining 1st in Hong Kong in "International Outlook". These achievements reaffirm the University's world-class strengths in pioneering research, international collaboration and knowledge transfer. CityUHK also recorded across-the-board score improvements in the three core pillars of Teaching, Research Environment and Research Quality.

The THE World University Rankings 2027 evaluated 2,297 institutions across 118 countries and territories using 17 indicators grouped under five core pillars: Teaching, Research Environment, Research Quality, Industry and International Outlook. Mr Phil Baty, Chief Global Affairs Officer at THE, pointed out that the latest results reflect a permanent shift in the tectonic plates of global higher education, signalling a historic realignment of academic power from West to East and remaking the geography of academic excellence. In its official press release, THE also highlighted that the overall performance of Hong Kong's higher education institutions continues to be strong, specifically noting that CityUHK has achieved its highest position to date.

"At a time of intensifying global competition, it is remarkable that CityUHK has continued its strong progress in the world university rankings, now moving into the world top 70 group," said Mr Baty. "Universities need to have real strength-in-depth across our 17 metrics to perform so well in the rankings, but CityUHK has particular strength in its international outlook, which is a fantastic signal of being a global magnet for talent and partnerships and it has the highest score in the world, jointly, for its outstanding industry collaboration and technology transfer. These strengths combine to create a very potent force for good. Congratulations to all at a highly successful global research university."

In industry-academia-research collaboration and internationalisation, CityUHK scored a perfect 100 in the "Industry" pillar, ranking 1st in the world for the fourth consecutive year. This accolade underscores the University's pre-eminent standing in patent development, technology commercialisation, and the promotion of a dynamic innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem.

Furthermore, having been named the "Most International University in the World" by THE for three consecutive years, CityUHK retained the top position in Hong Kong in "International Outlook" for the ninth consecutive year.

CityUHK also achieved continuous breakthroughs in academic reputation and research excellence. Scores for "Teaching Reputation" and "Research Reputation" climbed for the second consecutive year, while the "Research Quality" pillar surged into the global top 50, bolstered by full marks across multiple critical indicators.

"CityUHK has seen robust development in recent years, with its academic achievements and innovative research highly recognised both locally and internationally. The University has firmly established itself among the top 100 worldwide in four major global university rankings, which serves as a resounding affirmation of the CityUHK community's steadfast commitment to innovation and research excellence," said Professor Chun-Sing Lee, Acting President of CityUHK. "CityUHK will continue to embrace a pioneering mindset, deepen international research and pedagogical collaboration, and address pressing global challenges through visionary research outcomes and deep-seated industry-academia-research synergy."

He added, "We remain dedicated to nurturing future leaders equipped with global competitiveness and social responsibility, continuously contributing to developing Hong Kong as an international post-secondary education hub and a cradle of world-class talent."

CityUHK's academic excellence has been consistently validated across major international benchmarks. In the QS World University Rankings 2027, CityUHK rose 11 places to 52nd globally, placing it firmly within the top 3% of universities worldwide. In the U.S. News & World Report 2026–2027 Best Global Universities Rankings, CityUHK climbed seven spots to 47th globally. And in the ShanghaiRanking Academic Ranking of World Universities 2026, CityUHK maintained its position among the world's top 100 for the second consecutive year, ranking 95th globally and 2nd in Hong Kong. These accolades demonstrate the University's continuously rising academic reputation and influence within the global higher education landscape.

SOURCE City University of Hong Kong (CityUHK)

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ASICS Issues World's First Conservation Warning for Movement as New Research Reveals We're Moving Less

Sigourney Weaver narrates Human Nature, a new nature documentary from ASICS, exploring how our modern-day habitats are changing the way we move.

KOBE, Japan, Sept. 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Ahead of World Mental Health Day, ASICS is issuing a conservation warning for movement, as new global research reveals people report spending 86% of their waking day not moving.1

To highlight the issue, ASICS has released Human Nature, a new nature documentary narrated by the award-winning Sigourney Weaver. Turning the lens on humans, the short film explores how our modern-day habitats are quietly changing the way we move.

Key Research Findings:

- People report spending 86% of their waking day not moving.1

- Today, 53% of adults surveyed are failing to meet recommended physical activity guidelines.

- By 2035, that figure is projected to rise to 56% — equivalent to 2.3 billion adults2 across the countries studied.

- 64% say modern life makes it easy to spend an entire day barely moving.

- Just 15 minutes of movement may help uplift our mental state and help us thrive.

The global research3, involving 34,000 people across 31 countries, found that more than half (53%) of adults report failing to meet recommended physical activity guidelines. To understand the scale of the issue, ASICS worked with experts to develop the world's first Movement Conservation Status4. Inspired by nature conservation and based on internationally recognized physical activity guidelines, it classifies movement levels as active, at risk or endangered.

The findings reveal that almost one in four people (23%) have movement levels classified as endangered, doing less than 30 minutes of exercise each week. By 2035, the proportion of adults with movement levels classified as at risk or endangered is projected to rise from 53% to 56% - equivalent to an estimated 2.3 billion adults2 across the countries studied.

Movement levels are linked to our mental state

People whose movement is classified as endangered report significantly lower State of Mind scores (60/100 on average) than those whose movement is classified as Active (71/100). They also report feeling 23% less energized, 20% less composed, 17% less focused, and 16% more stressed than those whose movement is classified as "Active".

Young people are particularly at risk. More than half (57%) of 18–24-year-olds report they fail to meet recommended activity levels, with 92% saying they experience negative consequences as a result, including low mood, increased stress and poor sleep.

Modern life is designing movement out

The research suggests that modern convenience is quietly designing movement out of everyday life. Today, we can eat, work, bank, shop, socialize and entertain ourselves without moving, and increasingly do. Nearly two-thirds of people (64%) say it is easy to spend an entire day barely moving because modern life is so convenient, while more than four in ten say they could comfortably not leave their home for three or more days.

And staying in has a cost. People who very often go a full day without leaving home have average State of Mind scores of 62/100, compared with 71/100 for those who never do - and are twice as likely to be moving at endangered levels (40% vs 20%).

Technology is accelerating the trend. Forty-one per cent of people surveyed regularly complete errands online rather than in person, while 39% often socialize by phone or video instead of face-to-face. Among 18–24-year-olds, 41% now use AI to complete tasks they would previously have done themselves - the highest of any age group.

Just 15 minutes can help make a difference

But there is good news. Small amounts of movement may make a real difference, with ASICS research showing that just 15 minutes of movement can help deliver a measurable uplift in mental state.

"We've built a world that makes movement optional. We can work, shop, socialise and be entertained without ever really moving – and while that's convenient, our bodies and minds still depend on regular movement to stay healthy," David Raichlen, Professor of Biology and Anthropology at the University of Southern California. "The findings are a reminder that movement isn't an added extra; it's fundamental to how we feel, think and function. The encouraging thing is that it doesn't take much to change small, achievable moments of activity can make a real difference, and the challenge is to simply build them back into the world we live in now."

A new nature documentary

Human Nature takes a playful look at humans in their increasingly comfortable and convenient modern-day habitats. Returning to nature documentary narration, Sigourney Weaver lends her distinctive voice to the short film, which explores how sofas, screens and convenience are quietly replacing everyday movement. With a twist on the traditional conservation documentary, Human Nature shows how modern life is changing the way we move — and reminds us why movement is in our nature.

Watch Human Nature here.

"For more than 75 years, ASICS has been guided by the belief that movement transforms not just the body, but also the mind," says Gary Raucher, Global Head of Marketing. "It's why we're called ASICS. Our name comes from the Latin phrase Anima Sana In Corpore Sano - a Sound Mind in a Sound Body. Today, as modern life quietly designs movement out of everyday life, we believe it's more important than ever to remind people of the power of movement. We hope to inspire people everywhere to move for just 15 minutes, because even small amounts of movement can make a meaningful difference to both body and mind."

This World Mental Health Day, ASICS is encouraging everyone to take 15 Minutes to Thrive, moving for just 15 minutes to help support body and mind.

People can also become an ASICS Movement Conservationist, joining a global community inspiring more people to move for body and mind.

To find out more and join the movement, visit asics.com/movementconservation

NOTES TO EDITORS

¹Self-reported daily movement, assumes a 16-hour waking day.

2Based on 56% of the projected combined 18+ population of the 31 markets studied in 2035 (4.04 billion), per UN World Population Prospects 2024.

3ASICS' global State of Mind study, conducted in July 2026 among 34,000 participants across 31 markets: Australia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, China, Colombia, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Malaysia, Netherlands, Norway, Peru, Poland, Singapore, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Taiwan, Thailand, Turkey, UAE, the UK, the US and Vietnam. 1,000 members of the general population were surveyed in each market (2,000 in the US, UK and China), nationally representative by age, gender and region.

4ASICS worked with Professor Brendon Stubbs to develop The Movement Conservation Status drawing on internationally recognised guidelines for weekly physical activity, including those from the World Health Organisation, Sport England, NHS England and US Physical Activity Guidelines. The Movement Conservation Status classifies weekly self-reported movement into three categories: active (150+ minutes), at risk (30-149 minutes) and endangered (fewer than 30 minutes).

About ASICS

At ASICS, our five letters have meaning. ASICS is an acronym for the Latin Anima Sana In Corpore Sano or a Sound Mind in a Sound Body. And since our founding in 1949, our purpose has been to help people achieve a Sound Mind in a Sound Body.

Right from the very start, our founder, Kihachiro Onitsuka, saw that sport and movement had the power to lift spirits, project positivity, and propel people and whole communities forward. We still believe this.

And we believe our purpose is more relevant today than ever before. Stress and anxiety are at record levels, yet we know sport and movement can have a positive impact. Which is why we remain focused on supporting more people to move for positive mental health.

SOURCE ASICS

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CityUHK surges to historic high of 70th in THE World University Rankings 2027; Clinches world No. 1 in Industry for fourth consecutive year and leaps into global top 50 for Research Quality

HONG KONG, Sept. 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- City University of Hong Kong (CityUHK) has achieved its best-ever results in the newly released Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2027, advancing three places to rank 70th globally.

CityUHK demonstrated stellar performance across multiple evaluation metrics, notably retaining the world No. 1 spot in the "Industry" pillar for the fourth consecutive year and remaining 1st in Hong Kong in "International Outlook". These achievements reaffirm the University's world-class strengths in pioneering research, international collaboration and knowledge transfer. CityUHK also recorded across-the-board score improvements in the three core pillars of Teaching, Research Environment and Research Quality.

The THE World University Rankings 2027 evaluated 2,297 institutions across 118 countries and territories using 17 indicators grouped under five core pillars: Teaching, Research Environment, Research Quality, Industry and International Outlook. Mr Phil Baty, Chief Global Affairs Officer at THE, pointed out that the latest results reflect a permanent shift in the tectonic plates of global higher education, signalling a historic realignment of academic power from West to East and remaking the geography of academic excellence. In its official press release, THE also highlighted that the overall performance of Hong Kong's higher education institutions continues to be strong, specifically noting that CityUHK has achieved its highest position to date.

In industry-academia-research collaboration and internationalisation, CityUHK scored a perfect 100 in the "Industry" pillar, ranking 1st in the world for the fourth consecutive year. This accolade underscores the University's pre-eminent standing in patent development, technology commercialisation, and the promotion of a dynamic innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem.

Furthermore, having been named the "Most International University in the World" by THE for three consecutive years, CityUHK retained the top position in Hong Kong in "International Outlook" for the ninth consecutive year.

CityUHK also achieved continuous breakthroughs in academic reputation and research excellence. Scores for "Teaching Reputation" and "Research Reputation" climbed for the second consecutive year, while the "Research Quality" pillar surged into the global top 50, bolstered by full marks across multiple critical indicators.

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Uuni LLC Announces Launch of New Book The Disciplined Executive

The new leadership book applies elite athletic training principles to practical leadership development.

SUNNYVALE, Calif., Sept. 29, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Uuni LLC announces the launch of the new book The Disciplined Executive. Written by Jani Hirvonen, founder of Uuni LLC, it was released on September 15, 2026. The book takes principles from elite athletic training and applies them to executive performance and leadership development.

Hirvonen's company focuses on executive coaching, leadership development, and teaching high-performance execution. The book extends the work at Uuni LLC and draws on Hirvonen's own life experience.

A Leadership Framework Inspired By Athletic Training

The central premise of The Disciplined Executive is that leadership development can mirror athletic training. Hirvonen asserts that leadership capability can be developed through deliberate practice and consistent training. This approach includes repetition and accountability. The book argues that leadership qualities are not gained simply by advancing to senior ranks, but can be developed through practice.

As a two-time IRONMAN All-World Gold Athlete, Hirvonen has extensive knowledge of athletic training.

He also has more than 20 years of professional experience across industries including technology, research, consulting, and publishing. During his career, Hirvonen has worked in business development, partnerships, scaling businesses, and international operations. He has worked in both nonprofit and for-profit organizations, giving him insight into both.

The author has combined lessons from his corporate career and athletic training to shape his leadership philosophy. Hirvonen works as an executive coach, mentoring leaders, founders, and executives.

Extending Uuni's Leadership Development Work

Founded in 2024, Uuni LLC is headquartered in Sunnyvale, California. The coaching and development company offers multiple services to its clients who want to develop their leadership skills and advance their careers. The company uses athletic-training techniques to coach clients in management, leadership, and business. Clients can also learn business strategy and how to transition in their career path.

The Disciplined Executive is based on the framework developed at Uuni LLC and expands on leadership development. The coaching model includes an assessment to establish a starting point, qualitative interviews that provide feedback, identification of areas to develop, structured coaching, and progress measurement throughout the training.

Book Launch Includes Charitable Commitment

Uuni LLC has announced that it will donate every dollar earned from the book. The proceeds will be donated to JCI, Junior Chamber International, to help fund and grow future global leaders, and Athletes Soul, to support elite athletes as they navigate retirement and transition into the next phase of their lives.

It also offers pro bono coaching work. The company provides coaching to nonprofits that are focused on serving local communities and underrepresented people.

As a global technology leader, executive coach, board advisor, elite athlete, and author, Hirvonen brings his expertise to his new book, The Disciplined Executive, helping others achieve their career goals.

About Uuni LLC:

Uuni LLC is an executive coaching and leadership development company located in Sunnyvale, California. Jani Hirvonen founded the company in 2024 and brings 20 years of experience across various industries. The company has created a leadership development framework based on athletic-performance principles.

Media Contact:

Global Independent News

[email protected]

Sunnyvale, California

SOURCE Head of Communications, Uuni LLC

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Current and prospective customers and partners, community members, and media are invited to celebrate with company leadership, enjoy lunch, and tour the new manufacturing facility.

FONTANA, Calif., Sept. 29, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- FlexScreen / RiteScreen invites current and prospective customers, business partners, local residents, community leaders, and members of the media to a ribbon-cutting celebration at its new Fontana, California, manufacturing facility on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Pacific Time. The event will take place at 13611 Santa Ana Ave, Fontana, CA 92337.

The celebration will feature remarks from company leadership, a ribbon-cutting ceremony, catered lunch, and guided plant tours. Guests will have the opportunity to meet the team and see the processes behind FlexScreen / RiteScreen's window and door screen products, including the first fully operational FlexScreen line in Southern California.

"Our investment in a new, expanded facility represents our obssession to provide the best possible service and quality to our existing and prospective customers in the South West of the United States. It is also an investment in the well-being of our people, who make our business possible," said David H. Campos, Chief Executive Officer of FlexScreen / RiteScreen. "We look forward to welcoming our customers, partners, and neighbors to celebrate this milestone, recognize our team, and take a closer look at our operations."

The new, larger Fontana plant is another step taken by FlexScreen/RiteScreen in its commitment to provide remarkable service to its existing and prospective partners in the South West of the United States.

"There's something special about opening the doors and letting people see how their screens are made," said Joe Altieri, FlexScreen Founder and Chief Officer – Strategic Partnerships. "FlexScreen began with an idea to make a better window screen. Bringing that innovation together with RiteScreen's manufacturing experience gives us so much to be excited about. We can't wait to share that excitement with everyone who joins us in Fontana."

Join the Celebration

- Date: Wednesday, November 4, 2026

- Time: 11:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. Pacific Time

- Location: FlexScreen / RiteScreen, 13611 Santa Ana Ave, Fontana, CA 92337

- Activities: Leadership remarks, ribbon cutting, catered lunch, and guided plant tours

To RSVP, please visit FlexScreen / RiteScreen's event registration page.

Members of the media are invited to attend and may contact Nicolas DeSarno at [email protected] to coordinate coverage or request interviews.

About FlexScreen / RiteScreen

FlexScreen / RiteScreen provides window and door screen solutions for manufacturers and customers across North America and beyond. The company combines FlexScreen's patented flexible window screen technology with RiteScreen's manufacturing expertise and nationwide production capabilities. Seven Point Equity Partners acquired RiteScreen in 2014 and FlexScreen in 2025, bringing the companies together as a unified screen-solutions business. For more information, visit FlexScreenRiteScreen.com.

About Seven Point Equity Partners

Seven Point Equity Partners is a private investment firm based in Miami focused on specialty manufacturing and business services. The firm combines investment experience and operational expertise to support the growth and development of its portfolio companies.

SOURCE FlexScreen

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MADISON, Wis., Sept. 29, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Focus on Energy marked 25 years of helping Wisconsin residents and businesses save energy and money by recognizing key Energy Efficiency Champions today at an award ceremony at the Wisconsin State Capitol. Gov. Tony Evers commended the honorees who have helped make Wisconsin homes more comfortable, schools more efficient, businesses stronger and manufacturing operations better positioned for the future. Each represents a lasting commitment to saving energy and money while improving the places where Wisconsinites live, learn and work.

Public Service Commission Chairperson Summer Strand presented Gov. Tony Evers with an Energy Efficiency Champion Award in recognition of his support for the Focus on Energy program as governor. Through his annual Energy Efficiency Day proclamations, Evers has encouraged Wisconsin residents and businesses to take advantage of opportunities to save energy and money. His administration's Clean Energy Plan calls for expanding Focus on Energy's work, helping more Wisconsinites make improvements that lower costs and reduce energy waste.

"Energy efficiency does not always come with a big ribbon cutting. A better pump may be deep inside a paper mill, better insulation may be tucked inside a wall, and a lighting upgrade may simply make it easier for a student to read a page of music during Band practice. But the results are noticeable: a home that feels warmer in January, a school with brighter classrooms, a business with lower costs, and equipment that runs the way it should," said Gov. Evers. "For 25 years, Focus on Energy has helped Wisconsinites turn good ideas into real savings, and these four Champions show the difference that commitment can make in communities across our state."

Gov. Evers recognized the Energy Efficiency Champions including:

- School District of La Crosse has created more comfortable classrooms for students while reducing energy costs and protecting taxpayer dollars. Since 2006, the School District has avoided more than $10 million in energy costs.

- On Site Performance Testing is a family-owned business based in Chippewa Falls, Wis., that has helped more than 12,000 Wisconsin homeowners understand and improve the comfort, safety, and energy performance of their homes.

- David Leeder has spent 40 years advancing energy efficiency in the Wisconsin paper industry. Through more than 60 energy-saving projects, Leeder helped mills reduce energy use and operating costs while sharing knowledge with the people who will carry that work forward.

- Kwik Trip has made energy efficiency part of how it designs, builds, and runs its facilities. In nearly two decades, the company has completed more than 1,000 energy efficiency projects. Solar installations, EV charging infrastructure, and other emerging technologies in new stores are helping position the company for the future.

"For a quarter century, Focus on Energy has fostered collaborative partnerships with utilities, businesses, communities, and energy experts in furtherance of its mission to empower people in Wisconsin to make smart energy decisions with enduring economic benefits," said Public Service Commission of Wisconsin Chairperson Summer Strand. "The four energy efficiency Champions recognized today illustrate how and why this program works. The awardees identified energy saving opportunities, took action to implement their ideas and solutions, and perhaps most importantly, paid it forward so others can learn from their experiences and build on their successes."

The four Champions represent different industries and communities, but their stories share a common thread. Energy efficiency became part of how they work, not a single project or one-time investment.

"Twenty-five years of Focus on Energy is the work of many hands: the utilities that fund the program, the Trade Allies and partners who deliver it, and the customers who say yes to better ways to use energy," said Erin Soman, Focus on Energy managing director. "These four Champions said 'yes' and found ways to make energy efficiency part of their everyday operations."

About Focus on Energy 

Focus on Energy is Wisconsin's statewide energy efficiency and renewable resource program funded by the state's investor-owned energy utilities and participating municipal and electric cooperative utilities. Focus on Energy works with eligible Wisconsin residents and businesses to install cost-effective energy efficiency and renewable energy products. Focus on Energy information, resources, and financial incentives help to implement projects that otherwise would not be completed. For more information call 800.762.7077 or visit focusonenergy.com.

Download Images of the Energy Efficiency Champions

SOURCE Focus on Energy

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IRVING, Texas, Sept. 29, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Vistra (NYSE: VST) plans to report its third quarter 2026 financial and operating results on Friday, Nov. 6, 2026, during a live conference call and webcast beginning at 10 a.m. ET (9 a.m. CT).

The live webcast can be accessed via Vistra's website at www.vistracorp.com under "Investor Relations" and then "Events & Presentations." Participants can register here in advance to access the webcast. A replay of the webcast will be available on Vistra's website for one year following the call.

About Vistra

Vistra (NYSE: VST) is a leading Fortune 500 integrated retail electricity and power generation company based in Irving, Texas, that provides essential resources to customers, businesses, and communities from California to Maine. Vistra is a leader in transforming the energy landscape, with an unyielding focus on reliability, affordability, and sustainability. The company safely operates a reliable, efficient power generation fleet of natural gas, nuclear, coal, solar, and battery energy storage facilities while taking an innovative, customer-centric approach to its retail business. Learn more at vistracorp.com.

SOURCE Vistra Corp

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RICHMOND, Va., Sept. 29, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Activation Capital, the operating name of the Virginia Biotechnology Research Partnership Authority, today announced the election of Paul Nolde as chair of the Authority Board, succeeding Virginia Commonwealth University President Michael Rao, Ph.D., who has served as chair since 2009. Rao will remain an active member of the board, continuing his longstanding support of Activation Capital and its work to strengthen life sciences innovation, entrepreneurship, commercialization, and economic development across the region.

Rao's 17 years as chair span a period of significant growth and evolution for the organization and Virginia's life sciences ecosystem. During his tenure, the organization expanded beyond its historic role supporting the Virginia Bio+Technology Research Park to become a life sciences ecosystem-expansion organization advancing entrepreneurship, commercialization, specialized infrastructure, and cross-sector connectivity across Greater Richmond and the Commonwealth.

"President Rao's steadfast leadership as chair since 2009 helped position Activation Capital for the opportunities we have today," said Michael Steele, president and chief executive officer of Activation Capital. "I'm grateful for the perspective, commitment and spirit of collaboration he has brought to this organization, and I'm especially pleased that we'll continue to have his voice on the board. I look forward to working with Paul as chair and continuing the momentum that has made this such an exciting time for Activation Capital and our region."

In 2017, the organization introduced the Activation Capital identity as part of an expanded focus on strengthening the region's high-growth innovation and entrepreneurial ecosystem. Over the years that followed, Activation Capital deepened its work in entrepreneurship, commercialization, ecosystem development, and innovation infrastructure.

Activation Capital also led a pharmaceutical manufacturing scaleup initiative that helped catalyze the formation of the Alliance for Building Better Medicine, aligning industry, academia, government, and economic development partners around opportunities to strengthen domestic pharmaceutical manufacturing and supply chain resilience. That collaboration helped position the Richmond-Petersburg region to secure more than $53 million through the U.S. Economic Development Administration and contributed to the development of an advanced pharmaceutical manufacturing cluster that has since attracted significant public, private, and philanthropic investment.

In recent years, Activation Capital has expanded its continuum of life sciences entrepreneurship programs to support innovators from early discovery and company formation through investor readiness and commercialization. Basecamp, Pathfinder, Frontier BioHealth, and Pioneer Connect provide researchers and founders access to experienced operators, investors, industry partners, and specialized expertise to help move promising technologies toward market.

Activation Capital is also undertaking the largest expansion of its Bio+Tech Center since its creation. Through a lease agreement for space made available by VCU in Bio+Tech One, the organization is adding approximately 10,535 square feet and 13 new wet laboratories, including a clean room. Upon completion, the expansion will increase laboratory capacity from 10 to 23 labs while expanding specialized infrastructure for applied research, product development, company formation, and commercialization.

Nolde was appointed to the Virginia Biotechnology Research Partnership Authority Board in January 2025 and has since served as vice chair. He brings extensive experience in entrepreneurship, business incubation, acceleration, and early-stage investment, including leadership roles across Virginia's entrepreneurial ecosystem.

As the President and CEO of 757 Collab and the Executive Director of 757 Angels, Nolde sets the strategic vision for both organizations and oversees day-to-day operations for a venture platform that incubates, accelerates, and funds high-growth startups in Hampton Roads and the broader Commonwealth, from post-ideation to seed stage. He previously served as Executive Managing Director of Lighthouse Labs, a nationally recognized venture accelerator in Richmond, adjunct professor of Impact Investing at the University of Virginia's Batten School of Leadership and Public Policy, and as Fund Manager and Managing Director of Riverflow Growth Fund, a seed-stage, healthcare-focused venture fund. Earlier, he was a director at NRV (an early-stage venture firm), managed the angel investment portfolio of a family office, and held sales and strategy roles at national and community banks.

"I'm honored by President Rao's confidence and excited about the potential of Virginia's innovation economy," Nolde said. "Activation Capital plays an important role connecting entrepreneurs, researchers, investors and industry, and I look forward to working with Michael Steele, President Rao, and the rest of the board to build on the organization's momentum."

The leadership transition comes as Activation Capital continues to expand its role in Virginia's growing life sciences ecosystem. With Rao continuing his service on the Authority Board and Nolde assuming the chair role, Activation Capital enters its next phase with continuity in board leadership and a growing platform for regional impact. As part of the leadership transition, Elizabeth Anne Whalley, who previously served as secretary of the Virginia Biotechnology Research Partnership Authority Board, will assume the role of vice chair, while board member Brian Anderson will serve as secretary.

Together, the Authority Board will continue working to grow the region's life sciences and innovation economy while strengthening Virginia's position as a destination for biotechnology, entrepreneurship, and commercialization.

About Virginia Biotechnology Research Partnership Authority

The Virginia Biotechnology Research Partnership Authority ("Authority") is a political subdivision of the Commonwealth of Virginia created by Chapter 946 of the 1993 Virginia Acts of Assembly (the "Act"). The Authority disseminates knowledge pertaining to scientific and technological research and development among public and private entities, including but not limited to biotechnology, and promotes industrial and economic development.

SOURCE Activation Capital

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