The article outlines how system age, repair history, and energy bills guide heating system decisions.

MOUNT AIRY, N.C., Sept. 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- When should homeowners repair their furnace or heat pump, and when is replacement the smarter choice?

HelloNation has published the answer in an article featuring insights from Jason Bare of Friendly Heating & Cooling, Inc. in Mount Airy, NC.

The HelloNation article explains that many heating systems reach a decision point around the 15-year mark. A furnace or heat pump typically lasts between 15 and 20 years, but performance can decline before that. Evaluating repair frequency, rising energy bills, and overall reliability helps homeowners determine whether furnace replacement is appropriate.

Frequent service calls are often the first warning sign. If a heat pump or furnace requires multiple repairs within a single season, the cost of ongoing fixes may begin to outweigh the benefits. Tracking repair expenses over time provides a clearer picture of whether furnace replacement offers better long-term value.

Energy bills are another important consideration. As systems age, they lose efficiency, causing higher monthly heating costs. Comparing current energy bills with the potential savings from a modern heat pump or high-efficiency furnace can help homeowners in Mount Airy assess the financial advantages of replacement.

Reliability during winter months is critical. An aging furnace that struggles on the coldest nights can disrupt comfort and create safety concerns. Choosing furnace replacement before a complete failure occurs provides greater peace of mind and reduces the risk of emergency breakdowns.

The article also highlights the importance of professional evaluation. A qualified HVAC technician can inspect key components such as heat exchangers, compressors, and blower motors. When these parts show signs of corrosion or wear, repairs may provide only short-term relief, making furnace replacement or upgrading a heat pump a more practical solution.

Newer systems offer additional benefits. Modern furnace replacement options and updated heat pump models often include improved efficiency ratings and advanced technology. These upgrades can reduce energy bills while delivering more consistent indoor temperatures for homes in Mount Airy.

However, replacement is not always necessary. For newer systems with minimal repair history, targeted repairs and regular maintenance may extend service life. An experienced HVAC technician can help determine whether a repair is cost-effective based on system age and condition.

Financial planning also plays a role in the decision-making process. Homeowners should compare the immediate cost of repairs with the projected expense of furnace replacement. Factoring in reduced energy bills and potential warranty coverage provides a more complete understanding of long-term value.

Timing is equally important. Planning furnace replacement or upgrading a heat pump before peak winter demand helps avoid rushed decisions. Scheduling an evaluation with an HVAC technician allows homeowners in Mount Airy to make informed choices without the pressure of an emergency situation.

The HelloNation article concludes that reviewing repair history, system age, reliability, and energy bills provides clarity. With guidance from a trusted HVAC technician, homeowners can decide whether continued repairs or furnace replacement is the best path forward for lasting comfort and efficiency.

When to Repair or Replace Your Furnace or Heat Pump features insights from Jason Bare, HVAC Expert of Mount Airy, NC, in HelloNation.

About HelloNation

HelloNation is America's Good News Network, a premier media platform built on the idea that good news travels faster when real people tell real stories. Through its community-focused publications and innovative "edvertising" approach, HelloNation delivers content that informs, inspires, and spotlights the leaders making a meaningful impact in their communities.

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Fast casual concept coming to Fruitville Farms on September 29, celebrating with free chicken salad for a year and appearances by famed sports broadcaster, Dick Vitale

ATLANTA, Sept. 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Chicken Salad Chick, the nation's only fast casual chicken salad restaurant concept, announced today the opening of its newest restaurant in Florida, located at 6650 Fruitville Road in the Fruitville Farms shopping center in Sarasota, just east of I-75. The local community is invited to celebrate this grand opening on Tuesday, September 29, when the first 100 guests in line will win free chicken salad for a year*. The celebration will also feature special appearances by legendary sports broadcaster Dick Vitale, who will attend the restaurant's Friends & Family event and ribbon cutting ceremony on behalf of the V Foundation for Cancer Research.

During the grand opening week, guests can expect to experience the Southern hospitality Chicken Salad Chick is known for while taking advantage of various specials and giveaways. These include:

- Tuesday, September 29 – Free Chicken Salad for a Year to the First 100 Guests – The first guest in line at 10:30am will receive one FREE large Quick Chick of chicken salad per week for an entire year. The next 99 guests in line will receive one FREE large Quick Chick of chicken salad per month for a year.*

- Wednesday, September 30 – The first 50 guests to purchase a meal with two sides or equivalent will receive a free 16oz Tervis Tumbler!**

- Thursday, October 1 – The first 50 guests to purchase a meal with two sides or equivalent will receive a FREE Red Grocery Tote!**

- Friday, October 2 – The first 50 guests to purchase a meal with two sides or equivalent will receive a FREE large Chick Cooler!**

- Saturday, October 3 – The first 50 guests to purchase a meal with two sides or equivalent will receive a FREE large Quick Chick on their next visit!**

Chicken Salad Chick of Sarasota – Fruitville Farms is the third restaurant owned and operated by franchise owner, Karen Jordan. Through her franchise group, Manasota Chick, LLC, she also owns locations in Bradenton and Parrish, with Parrish recently opening in December 2025. Karen is very engaged with her community, serving as an active member of organizations like Successful Women Aligning Together, Discover Bradenton, and Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. She also serves on the board of the Manatee Chamber of Commerce and is a member of the Sarasota Chamber of Commerce and Parrish Area Business Alliance. Family is a top priority for her as well, and she's excited to share this new chapter with them – especially as they recently welcomed their seventh grandchild.

"Opening my third Chicken Salad Chick restaurant is a really exciting milestone for me," said Karen Jordan, franchise owner, Chicken Salad Chick of Sarasota – Fruitville Farms. "This past year has been incredibly meaningful for my team and I – from providing free meals to children during the SNAP benefits lapse, to being named a finalist for Small Business of the Year in Manatee County by the Chamber of Commerce, I'm so proud of what we've accomplished and excited for what's ahead. My team and I are driven every day by The Chick's mission of to 'Spread Joy, Enrich Lives, and Serve Others,' and I can't wait to bring that same experience to our new guests in Sarasota County."

The Sarasota opening will also feature renowned broadcaster Dick Vitale, a longtime advocate for pediatric cancer research and supporter of the V Foundation for Cancer Research. As part of the pre-opening Friends & Family events, funds will be raised for the nonprofit, which was founded by ESPN and Jim Valvano to support groundbreaking cancer research. Guests will have the opportunity to meet Vitale, purchase signed copies of his book, and learn more about the annual Dick Vitale Gala, scheduled for May 7, 2027 to help raise money for pediatric cancer research.

Chicken Salad Chick is known for its dozen-plus varieties of made-from-scratch chicken salad flavors, fresh side salads, gourmet soups, signature sandwiches, and desserts. The new Sarasota – Fruitville Farms restaurant offers in-restaurant dining, outdoor patio, take-out, third-party delivery, and catering options.

"Karen is an amazing franchise owner and her passion for serving others has been vital for our growth in Southwest Florida," said Scott Deviney, CEO and President of Chicken Salad Chick. "We're thrilled to open our first restaurant in Sarasota County and to have Dick Vitale join us for such a special occasion. Community involvement and charitable giving are core to Chicken Salad Chick, and we're honored to support the V Foundation and its mission to advance life-saving cancer research."

Chicken Salad Chick of Sarasota – Fruitville Farms will be open Monday – Saturday from 10:30am – 8pm. For more information on giveaways and specials, visit the restaurant's Facebook. Visit www.chickensaladchick.com, and follow Chicken Salad Chick on Facebook and Instagram for the latest news and trends.

*Guests should arrive early to secure a place in line. The first 100 guests must remain in line and download the Chicken Salad Chick app. Wi-Fi will not be available on site. Once the restaurant opens, guests will make a purchase of a meal with two sides, or anything of equal/greater value and enter a code in the Chicken Salad Chick app to officially secure their spot. If you leave the line for any reason, your spot will be awarded to the next guest in line. Guests will receive their first free large Quick Chick electronically to their app the Monday following Grand Opening Day. Your reward will be valid for redemption for 30 days upon delivery. Guest must be 16 years or older. Not valid with any other offers. Limit 1 reward per guest present.

**Guest must be 16 years or older and purchase a meal with two sides or equivalent. Limit 1 reward per guest present. Not valid with any other offers. In-restaurant only.

About Chicken Salad Chick  

Chicken Salad Chick serves full-flavored, Southern-style chicken salad made from scratch and served from the heart. With more than a dozen original chicken salad flavors plus fresh sides, soups, sandwiches, desserts and catering, there's something for every guest and occasion. Chicken Salad Chick has grown to more than 345 restaurants across 27 states and continues its rapid expansion driven by a passionate network of franchise owners. The brand has earned consistent recognition from Entrepreneur, Franchise Times, Fast Casual, QSR, Southern Living, USA Today, and Technomic, among others. Visit www.chickensaladchick.com to learn more.

Contact:

Alexis Paul

Tidehouse

954-893-9150

[email protected]

SOURCE Chicken Salad Chick

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The merger brings together two relationship-driven wealth management firms with shared core values and a commitment to long-term client service.

CHICAGO and DES MOINES, Iowa, Sept. 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Cerity Partners and Gilbert & Cook today announced their intention to merge, effective at the end of September. Cerity Partners is a leading independent wealth management and investment advisory firm with offices nationwide. Gilbert & Cook is a respected wealth management firm based in West Des Moines, Iowa. Through the merger, Gilbert & Cook will operate under the Cerity Partners name, enhancing access to an extensive suite of wealth management services, including financial planning, investment management, business owner advisory, multigenerational estate planning, private family office services, divorce financial planning, and private markets investing. This partnership marks Cerity Partners' entry into the Iowa market and brings together two client-focused firms united by a shared commitment to personalized advice, deep relationships, and high-quality service.

Founded in 1993, Gilbert & Cook has earned national recognition serving individuals, families and business owners with an integrated, client-centered approach to financial planning, investment management and sophisticated wealth strategies. The firm will contribute approximately $2 billion in assets under management to Cerity Partners.

"This partnership represents an exciting milestone for both firms," said Claire O'Keefe, Partner & Head of Partner Development at Cerity Partners. "Gilbert & Cook has built an outstanding reputation based on trust, expertise, and an unwavering dedication to their clients. By bringing our firms together, we are strengthening our ability to deliver deeply personalized, integrated wealth advice while expanding our reach into the Des Moines community. We're thrilled to welcome our talented new partners and colleagues to Cerity Partners and look forward to the impact we will make together for many years to come."

"For more than 30 years, our mission has been centered on building relationships—with our clients, with one another, and with the community we are proud to call home—to help clients navigate life's financial decisions through trusted and thoughtful guidance," said Linda Cook, Founder & Managing Partner of Gilbert & Cook. "Joining Cerity Partners is a natural next step in that journey. At the heart of the decision to join Cerity Partners was a strong alignment in values and philosophy. This partnership allows us to preserve the values and personalized service our clients have always counted on while opening the door to expanded resources, specialized resources and experience, and new opportunities. We're incredibly excited about the future and what this means for our clients, our team, and the broader community we serve."

Together, Cerity Partners and Gilbert & Cook will continue to deliver the high-touch, relationship-driven experience clients expect while providing access to an even broader range of capabilities designed to help individuals, families, and business owners achieve their financial goals with confidence. Expanded resources include financial planning, investment management, tax, estate planning, business owner advisory and private family office services.

Advisors

Houlihan Lokey is representing Gilbert & Cook in this combination, and Sissel Law is providing legal counsel. Lowenstein Sandler is providing legal counsel to Cerity Partners in this combination.

About Cerity Partners

Founded in 2009, Cerity Partners is a nationally recognized wealth management firm serving high- and ultra-high-net-worth individuals and families, business owners, and institutions with an extensive range of financial planning, investment, tax, and retirement solutions. Learn more at ceritypartners.com.

About Gilbert & Cook

Founded in 1993 and based in West Des Moines, Iowa, Gilbert & Cook is a wealth management firm dedicated to empowering clients to Live a Life of Abundance®. The firm provides financial planning, investment management, business owner consultation, generational estate planning, private family office services, divorce financial planning, and private markets investing to individuals, families, and business owners. Learn more at gilbertcook.com.

Media Contact

[email protected]

SOURCE Cerity Partners

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Texans can be among the first to benefit from dcbel's flagship product. With Ara® Core at the center, homeowners can build a private grid for blackout protection, reduced energy costs, and up to 85% energy independence.

AUSTIN, Texas, Sept. 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- dcbel, the integrated home energy company, today announced the launch of the Ara Core Home Energy Station in Texas, giving homeowners the means to reduce their reliance on an increasingly strained public grid – slashing energy bills while protecting against blackouts from day one.

Through industry-leading intelligent management, Ara Core connects and orchestrates solar panels, home batteries, the public grid, and even bidirectional EVs, creating a private grid that helps homeowners generate, store, and manage their own energy through a groundbreaking all-in-one system. Ara Core's key features include:

- 100 decisions per second to consume, store, or sell energy with the intelligent Orchestrate OS;

- Reduced energy bills with up to 85% independence from the grid;

- Blackout protection using solar, battery storage, or a compatible bidirectional EV that can power a home for up to 10 days;

- A centralized station that minimizes power losses as it routes energy where needed, providing up to 30% more efficiency over traditional unintegrated energy systems.

To mark its arrival in Texas, dcbel is proud to be powering the 2026 Southern Living Idea House. The custom-built residence in Fredericksburg showcases the latest innovations in architecture, design, and home technology. Tours will be open to builders, renovators, designers, and the public from September 18 through December 20.

"With its thoughtful design and innovation, the 2026 Southern Living Idea House was the perfect place to showcase the next evolution of home energy in Texas, for the very first time," said Benjamin Tuff, CMO at dcbel.

"More than ever, Texas homeowners want greater control over their energy," said Marc-André Forget, CEO and co-founder of dcbel. "Whether they're looking to keep the lights on during outages or reduce utility costs, they need a solution that brings everything together. Ara was designed to be the foundation of a home's private grid, helping homeowners decide when to generate, store, use or export energy through one intelligent platform."

The growing need for energy resilience

Several converging trends are reshaping how Texans think about energy:

- Texas has the nation's second-highest number of power outages, while energy costs have risen 40% since 2020.

- dcbel's 2026 Home Energy Independence Report found that 91% of homeowners want greater energy independence, while 77% identified lower monthly energy bills as their top priority.

- Major weather events caused Texas customers to experience nearly 3x more outage hours in 2024 than in 2023.

- A recent heat wave pushed electricity demand in Texas to new highs, with six straight weeks that exceeded the state's previous all-time load record.

- Demand is forecast to grow 14% this year – 600% higher than the national average of 2% – as large data centers and cryptocurrency mining facilities come online.

More than ever, Texans are exploring new energy options such as home batteries, solar panels, and alternative charging solutions to buffer these rising costs and create stability as reliability wavers.

One system for maximum efficiency

The problem? Conventional systems often rely on multiple separate, expensive and complex devices and power conversions that can result in energy losses of up to 30%. In other words, a portion of the energy generated never makes it to where it's needed most.

Ara Core takes a new approach. It's a single point of conversion that intelligently manages home energy with over 100 decisions a second, routing energy between solar panels, home batteries, bidirectional EVs, and the home with minimal losses.

The result is a significantly more efficient energy ecosystem that helps homeowners get more bang for their buck from every kilowatt-hour.

A private grid that grows with your home

Once installed, Ara Core creates the foundation of a home's intelligently managed private grid. Yours to own and control, the private grid allows homeowners to add solar panels, bidirectional EVs, or batteries without costly retrofits or replacing existing equipment later.

Keeping blackouts at bay and reducing energy costs, Ara Core can charge two EVs simultaneously and is futureproof for bidirectional charging; leveraging the massive amount of energy stored in a compatible EV for up to 10 days of blackout protection.

And another huge benefit? Ara Core homeowners can sell back excess energy through vehicle-to-grid and energy market programs which the Home Energy Station will manage seamlessly in the background.

Powered by the Texan sun with Ara Core +solar

For homeowners considering solar to maximize their independence, Ara Core +solar allows customers to add solar panels to generate and store more usable energy every day. Ara Core +solar's DC microinverter architecture creates a direct path from roof to road, and makes it possible to charge your EV with the sun and add up to 20,000 free miles of EV range per year. It also enables solar to continue powering a home during a blackout.

First in class, built to last

Ara Core is engineered to the highest standards of durability, security, and design.

Built in the USA in collaboration with visionary automotive designer Paul Deutschman, Ara Core features advanced military-grade encryption, stringent UL and CSIP certifications, and a NEMA 3R-rated enclosure suitable for indoor or outdoor installation.

A comprehensive 12-year warranty helps protect homeowners' investment for years to come.

Reserve your system today

Texans can register to learn more or reserve their system at dcbel.energy/texas with a refundable deposit.

Once a reservation is placed, a dcbel Energy Specialist works directly with each household to confirm eligibility, identify available incentives, and connect homeowners with an approved local installer. From the first conversation through installation and ongoing support, homeowners benefit from a single point of contact throughout their energy journey.

About dcbel

At dcbel, we believe people should lead the modern energy ecosystem. As mobility becomes increasingly electric and demand grows, we are relentless in our pursuit of home energy solutions that are reliable, clean, and free from limitations. Because everyone in the world deserves energy without compromise.

Learn more at dcbel.energy

Sources

- Times Record News, Texas ranks near the top in the nation for power outages in new study

- KLTV, Texas power bills surge as infrastructure costs, data center growth strain the grid

- U.S. Energy Information Administration, Electric Power Annual Table 11.2 Reliability Metrics Using IEEE of U.S. Distribution System by State, 2024 and 2023

- U.S. Energy Information Administration, Weekly average load in ERCOT continues near record high

- U.S. Energy Information Administration, We expect rapid electricity demand growth in Texas and the mid-Atlantic

SOURCE dcbel Inc.

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DXC Appoints Jonathan Nikols as President of the Americas Market

ASHBURN, Va., Sept. 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- DXC Technology (NYSE: DXC), a leading enterprise technology services partner, today announced the appointment of Jonathan Nikols as President of the Americas Market. Nikols will oversee sales across North America, Central America, and South America, reporting to Paul Taylor, President, DXC Technology.

Nikols brings more than 25 years of experience leading technology sales teams and building high-performing commercial organizations. His appointment reinforces DXC's focus on strengthening sales execution, improving customer coverage, accelerating AI-driven growth, and bringing greater commercial discipline across one of the company's largest regions.

"The Americas is central to DXC's growth opportunity, and Jonathan brings the sales leadership, customer focus, and operating discipline we need," said Taylor. "His experience building large-scale technology sales organizations will help us improve execution, deepen customer relationships, strengthen pipeline management, and help customers put AI to work to deliver measurable business outcomes."

Most recently, Nikols served as Chief Revenue Officer at Mobile Communications America, where he was accountable for bookings across the company's public safety and enterprise customer portfolio. Prior to that, he was Senior Vice President of Global Enterprise Sales at Verizon Business, where he led enterprise sales teams through a period of strong growth. He is also a four-time Technology Services Industry Association Star Award winner and a Forbes Business Development Council member.

"DXC has a significant opportunity to grow in the Americas by bringing sharper sales focus, speed, and collaboration to the way we engage customers, ensuring we consistently deliver the solutions, expertise, and outcomes that help them achieve their modernization targets," said Nikols. "I look forward to working with teams across the region to strengthen execution, improve commercial focus, and help our customers modernize, adopt AI, and unlock greater value from their technology investments."

Rick Ruiz, who has provided interim leadership for the Americas, will continue as senior leader of DXC's U.S. Public Sector and Canada territories, reporting to Nikols.

About DXC Technology

DXC Technology (NYSE: DXC) is a leading enterprise technology and innovation partner delivering software, services, and solutions to global enterprises and public sector organizations — helping them harness AI to drive outcomes at a time of exponential change with speed. With deep expertise in Managed Infrastructure Services, Application Modernization, and Industry-Specific Software Solutions, DXC modernizes, secures, and operates some of the world's most complex technology estates. Learn more on dxc.com.

SOURCE DXC Technology Company

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TPB wraps up PHITEX 2026 with over PHP 500 million in sales leads, up more than 20% from 2025

PASAY CITY, Philippines, Sept. 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The Philippine Travel Exchange (PHITEX) 2026, the country's premier government-organized travel trade event, concluded on September 9 at Conrad Manila, with PHP 594,712,138.50 in sales leads. The figure, while still partial, is 20.12 percent higher than the PHP 495.09 million recorded in 2025.

Organized by the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines, PHITEX 2026 gathered 102 Philippine sellers, including destination management companies, tour operators, and travel agencies, and 76 foreign buyers from 24 countries.

Eleven (11) countries represented the emerging markets, including Denmark, France, Indonesia, Italy, Macao SAR, Saudi Arabia, Spain, Thailand, Türkiye, the United Arab Emirates, and Vietnam.

The remaining buyers represented TPB's 13 key markets: Australia, Canada, Mainland China, Germany, United Kingdom, Hong Kong SAR, India, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan region, and the United States of America.

TPB Chief Operating Officer Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles expressed optimism over the sales leads generated and the business connections forged during the event.

"We are delighted with the PHP 506.15 million in sales leads generated through PHITEX 2026," said Nograles. "While the tourism industry continues to navigate a challenging environment, shaped by global uncertainties and evolving market demands, PHITEX underscores the importance of strengthening industry partnerships and responding to the needs of travelers. We hope these connections will continue to grow into collaborations that bring more visitors to our communities and create sustainable opportunities for our local tourism stakeholders."

Meanwhile, foreign buyers experienced the country's rich heritage, scenic coastlines, and diverse culinary offerings through the post-event familiarization tours of PHITEX 2026. The tours included visits to the heritage sites of Ilocos Norte and Ilocos Sur, the natural attractions of Palawan, the culinary and cultural offerings of Cebu and Bohol, and the lush landscapes and nature-based experiences of Davao.

"We just don't promote the product or the destination, but the experience," said one of the buyers, Jenny Rose Ryall, director of Global Guides Australia. "We tell them stories, our personal stories, our personal experiences, and with that, it's a lot more convincing because they can see the emotion, and the excitement. It's always–what they [our clients] say to us–it's always the people that they love about the Philippines."

PHITEX 2026 was made possible through its silver sponsors: Cebu Pacific, Destileria Limtuaco & Co., Inc., Philippine Airlines; bronze sponsors: Duty Free Philippines, Kaulayaw, The Travel Club, and 2GO Travel; and community partners: Mactan Cebu International Airport, and Palaweño Brewery.

To know more about PHITEX, visit www.phitex.ph.

ABOUT TPB

The Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines is an attached agency of the Department of Tourism, mandated to market and promote the country both domestically and internationally as a world-class tourism and MICE destination. This is carried out through strategic partnerships with public and private stakeholders, anchored on travel trade shows and business meetings. For more information, please visit www.tpb.gov.ph.

SOURCE Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines

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In the news release, IQST – IQSTEL Digital Models an Illustrative $14.4 Million to $21.6 Million in Annualized Consumer Billings at 300,000 Active Paid Monthly Microdrama Subscriptions, issued 17-Sep-2026 by iQSTEL over PR Newswire, we are advised by the company that both the headline and sub-headline have been updated. The complete, corrected release follows:

IQST – IQSTEL Digital Models $1.8 Million to $3.6 Million in Potential Annualized Profit Contribution from Microdrama Subscriptions

Illustrative Scenario of 300,000 Active Paid Monthly Subscriptions Would Generate $14.4 Million to $21.6 Million in Annualized Consumer Billings, Shared Among Mobile Operators, Content Partners and IQSTEL

- Consumers are expected to pay approximately $4 to $6 for each active monthly microdrama subscription

- Total subscription revenue would be shared among the participating mobile operator, content partner and IQSTEL

- IQSTEL believes the net revenue it receives from the service could represent a higher-margin recurring revenue stream relative to its traditional telecommunications business

- IQSTEL Digital estimates that each active monthly subscriber could generate approximately $0.50 to $1.00 in monthly profit-contribution.

- At 300,000 active monthly paid subscriptions, the model could represent approximately $1.2 million to $1.8 million in monthly consumer billings, or approximately $14.4 million to $21.6 million annually

- At the same subscription level, IQSTEL Digital estimates potential monthly profit-contribution of approximately $150,000 to $300,000, equivalent to an annualized range of approximately $1.8 million to $3.6 million

- IQSTEL Digital has created an original microdrama demo to explain the format and its carrier-billing monetization model

NEW YORK, Sept. 17, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- IQSTEL Inc. (NASDAQ: IQST) ("IQSTEL" or the "Company"), a multinational technology company providing telecommunications, fintech, AI-powered communications, cybersecurity, content and digital infrastructure services, today outlined the potential economics of its mobile-first microdrama distribution initiative through IQSTEL Digital.

To demonstrate the format through the product itself, IQSTEL Digital has created an original microdrama demo. The Company invites investors, mobile operators, prospective business partners and consumers to watch the demo and experience how mobile-first vertical storytelling can support engagement, monthly subscriptions and recurring digital revenue.

Monthly Subscription Economics

Under the commercial model currently contemplated, consumers would pay approximately $4 to $6 for each active monthly microdrama subscription offered through participating mobile operators.

This monthly subscription would provide access to premium, mobile-first vertical entertainment. The service is intended to complement other entertainment subscriptions consumers may already maintain by offering a different viewing experience: short, serialized stories designed specifically for smartphones and for frequent viewing throughout the day.

The total monthly subscription revenue would be shared among the participating mobile operator, content partner and IQSTEL.

The mobile operator would provide customer access, billing and distribution. The content partner would provide the platform and premium vertical content. IQSTEL would provide commercial access to operators, integration support and the distribution and monetization infrastructure required to bring the service to mobile subscribers.

After anticipated revenue sharing and directly attributable operating expenses, IQSTEL Digital currently estimates that each active paid monthly subscription could contribute approximately $0.50 to $1.00 per month in profit contribution attributable to IQSTEL Digital.

At an illustrative level of 300,000 active monthly paid subscriptions, consumers would generate approximately $1.2 million to $1.8 million in monthly subscription billings. This would be equivalent to approximately $14.4 million to $21.6 million in annual consumer billings.

"The economic opportunity begins with a recurring monthly subscription of approximately $4 to $6," said Leandro Iglesias, President and CEO of IQSTEL. "That subscription revenue is shared among the mobile operator, content partner and IQSTEL, aligning the interests of all three parties. For IQSTEL, the objective is to convert our existing telecom relationships into recurring, high-margin digital revenue."

Illustrative Monthly Subscription Scenarios

The following scenarios illustrate the potential economics of the contemplated business model at different levels of active paid monthly subscriptions:

Each scenario is based on active paid monthly subscriptions priced at approximately $4 to $6 per month. The consumer-billing figures represent the total amounts paid by consumers before revenue is shared among the participating mobile operator, content partner and IQSTEL. They do not represent revenue attributable exclusively to IQSTEL.

The estimated profit-contribution figures are based on IQSTEL Digital's assumption that each active paid monthly subscription could generate approximately $0.50 to $1.00 in monthly profit-contribution attributable to IQSTEL Digital after anticipated revenue sharing and directly attributable operating expenses.

Annualized amounts assume that the applicable number of active paid monthly subscriptions, subscription pricing and estimated unit economics remain constant for twelve consecutive months. The scenarios are mathematical illustrations only and do not represent existing subscriptions, contracted revenue, forecasts or financial guidance.

A High-Margin Opportunity for IQSTEL Digital

IQSTEL's traditional telecommunications operations are primarily high-volume businesses. The microdrama initiative is designed to introduce a recurring digital revenue stream with a potentially higher margin on the net revenue received by IQSTEL.

The model does not require IQSTEL to recognize or retain the entire subscription price. Instead, IQSTEL expects to receive an agreed share of the revenue generated by each monthly subscription.

IQSTEL believes that the scalability of its existing operator relationships and supporting infrastructure could allow additional subscriptions to be added without a proportional increase in IQSTEL Digital's operating expenses. If achieved, this operating leverage could improve IQSTEL Digital's operating margins as monthly paid subscriptions grow.

Actual margins and profit-contribution will depend on definitive operator agreements, revenue-sharing arrangements, subscription pricing, customer activation, subscriber retention and churn, promotional periods, taxes, refunds, collection rates, content costs, technical integration, marketing expenses and market acceptance.

A Rapidly Expanding Global Entertainment Category

Microdramas are scripted and serialized stories created specifically for smartphones. Episodes generally run between one and three minutes, are filmed vertically and use fast-paced narratives and cliffhangers to encourage frequent viewing and continued engagement.

According to Omdia, global microdrama revenue reached approximately $11 billion in 2025 and is expected to grow to approximately $14 billion by the end of 2026.

According to Omdia's analysis of Q4 2025 Sensor Tower data, U.S. users of ReelShort spent an average of 35.7 minutes per day on the mobile app, compared with 24.8 minutes for Netflix, 26.9 minutes for Amazon Prime Video and 23.0 minutes for Disney+.

While major streaming platforms continue to have significantly larger monthly active user bases, the data demonstrates the strong engagement intensity achieved by the microdrama format among its existing mobile users. IQSTEL believes these trends demonstrate a broader change in entertainment consumption. Mobile-first audiences are allocating a growing share of their viewing time to short-form vertical video designed around how consumers naturally use smartphones.

Vertical entertainment is not necessarily replacing traditional horizontal programming. Instead, IQSTEL believes it is developing into a complementary category that competes for mobile attention by combining the convenience of social video with the emotional engagement and serialized storytelling of traditional television.

"Consumers still want compelling stories, but the screen, duration and viewing experience are changing," Iglesias said. "The growth of microdramas shows that premium storytelling can be adapted to the mobile behavior consumers already demonstrate every day."

Turning Telecom Relationships into Recurring Digital Revenue

IQSTEL maintains commercial relationships with more than 600 telecommunications operators across 24 countries. The networks operated by these companies collectively serve approximately 2.3 billion end users worldwide.

These relationships have historically been monetized through voice, SMS, messaging and connectivity services. IQSTEL Digital's strategy is to use the same commercial and technical foundation to distribute higher-margin digital products and services.

Through integrations with participating operators, the microdrama service may be offered through:

- Direct carrier billing, with subscription charges placed on the subscriber's existing mobile bill or deducted from a prepaid balance;

- Standalone monthly subscriptions;

- Entertainment and data-plan bundles; and

- Operator-sponsored promotions and customer-retention programs.

Direct carrier billing could reduce the payment friction associated with credit cards, app-store accounts and separate payment relationships, particularly in Latin American and emerging markets.

For participating operators, microdramas could provide incremental subscription revenue and a differentiated customer-engagement product without requiring the operator to produce original content.

"The strategic asset is not only the content," said Jorge Becerra, CEO of IQSTEL Digital.

Fans can give blood, explore a backstage-inspired experience and score limited-edition Metallica merchandise

WASHINGTON, Sept. 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Following the lifesaving success of the collaboration that kicked off last year, the American Red Cross and Metallica are once again joining forces to help patients in need with an all-new, exclusive experience for blood donors.

Beginning Sept. 28, fans can give blood at the Red Cross x Metallica Blood Donation Experience, sponsored by Delta Air Lines, at Fashion Show Las Vegas on the Las Vegas Strip. The experience will be open through March 19, 2027, giving fans an opportunity to give blood during the band's residency in Vegas.

The immersive pop-up brings fans a backstage-inspired experience with the ability to sit behind a replica drum set similar to one used by Metallica founding member Lars Ulrich. Additionally, all those who come to give will receive a limited-edition T-shirt designed by Squindo, while supplies last, and will be automatically entered for a chance to win the same replica drum kit, built by TAMA and similar to one specially made for Ulrich for Metallica's WorldWired Tour. Full terms and conditions can be found at RedCrossBlood.org/Metallica.

Donors will also have the chance to enjoy refreshments post-donation at the Delta Backstage Lounge, courtesy of Delta Air Lines. As a longtime blood partner of the American Red Cross, Delta is providing the support that gives donors the chance to take part in this unique experience.

But behind the music and unforgettable fan experience is a powerful reminder of why blood donation matters.

In 2021, Jamilah Bourdon was hit by a truck while riding her bike. She woke up in the hospital with life-altering injuries, including the loss of her right leg, and a long road to recovery ahead. During more than two months in the hospital, Jamilah underwent 13 surgeries and received five blood transfusions.

During that time, she found strength in an unexpected place: Metallica's music. "I didn't have access to music for the first month, so I replayed 'One' in my head," Jamilah said. "Metallica for me is a very spiritual band and a significant part of my healing."

"Jamilah's story is a powerful reminder that behind every blood donation is a person whose life may depend on it," said Darren Irby, executive director of National Partnerships, American Red Cross. "What makes this partnership with Metallica so special is its ability to turn the passion their fans have for their music into lifesaving action. Together, we're giving fans a memorable way to show up for patients who need them."

The Lifesaving Power of the Metallica Family

The experience builds on a lifesaving partnership between the Red Cross, Metallica and the band's foundation, All Within My Hands, that has mobilized thousands of members of the Metallica Family to roll up their sleeves and give blood. Since the collaboration launched in April 2025, fans have contributed more than 25,000 blood donations across the United States and about 93,000 donations worldwide.

Join the band and help save lives. Make an appointment to give blood at the Red Cross x Metallica Blood Donation Experience by visiting RedCrossBlood.org/Metallica, calling 1-800-RED CROSS or downloading the Red Cross Blood Donor App.

About the American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.

About Metallica

Formed in 1981 by vocalist/guitarist James Hetfield and drummer Lars Ulrich and including guitarist Kirk Hammett and bassist Robert Trujillo, Metallica has become one of the most influential and successful rock bands in history, selling nearly 125 million albums worldwide and generating more than 25 billion streams while playing to millions of fans on all seven continents—more than 1.3 million of whom belong to the band's fiercely loyal and consistently growing Fifth Member fan club. Metallica's catalog of multi-platinum studio albums includes Kill 'Em All, Ride the Lightning, Master of Puppets, …And Justice for All, Metallica(commonly referred to as The Black Album), Load, ReLoad, St. Anger, Death Magnetic, Hardwired…To Self-Destruct, and most recently, the Grammy-winning 72 Seasons, released April 14, 2023, on the band's own Blackened Recordings label. Metallica's awards and accolades include nine Grammy Awards, two American Music Awards, multiple MTV Video Music Awards, a 2009 induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, and Sweden's Polar Music Prize. In 2017, Metallica established its own charitable foundation, All Within My Hands, to give back to communities that have supported the band. To date, All Within My Hands' collective efforts have raised over $29M to support its mission, and provided grants of $15.3M to career and technical education programs through its Metallica Scholars Initiative, $8.4M to combat food insecurity, and $5.6M to disaster relief and other critical local services worldwide. Visit AllWithinMyHands.org to learn more.

About Delta Air Lines

Delta Air Lines connects people to more than 300 destinations across six continents, with 100,000 Delta people making those connections possible every day. But some of our greatest journeys start at home. 

The American Red Cross is Delta's longest-standing nonprofit partner, a relationship that began in 1941, when Delta employees hosted the airline's first blood drives during World War II and flew donated blood aboard Delta aircraft to support wartime medical efforts. That spirit of service endures today: Delta is the largest corporate blood drive sponsor in the U.S., powered by employees, retirees, and communities across the country. Delta is also an Annual Disaster Giving Program participant at the $1 million level and a national sponsor of the Sound the Alarm campaign, helping the Red Cross prepare communities before disaster strikes, respond at a moment's notice, and deliver lifesaving units of blood. To learn more, visit delta.com/community.

SOURCE American Red Cross

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Garage Beer teams up with Kingsford for a new Halloween-inspired campaign turning football's most legendary fan behaviors into collectible monsters

COLUMBUS, Ohio, Sept. 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Garage Beer, the crisp, uncomplicated Beer Flavored Beer™, knows that every fall, football fans turn into something else. They wake up before sunrise. They grill meat in parking lots. They paint their faces. They scream at referees. They jump through folding tables.

They become Terrors of the Tailgate.

This football season, Garage Beer is teaming up with Kingsford to celebrate the wildest creatures in football culture with Terrors of the Tailgate, a Halloween-inspired campaign that transforms the fans, rituals and chaotic traditions of game day into collectible monsters via LTO trading cards. Inspired by the over-the-top sports marketing and monster collectibles of the '90s, the campaign creates a world where tailgates are haunted, football fans become monsters and every game day introduces a new legend.

Leading the lineup is Jason Kelce, the King of the Tailgate, the undisputed ruler of game day chaos. He's joined by five Terrors inspired by the characters found in parking lots across America.

- The Table Smasher

- The Face Paint Fanatic

- The Cooler Raider

- The Parking Lot Prophet

- Kingsford's The Flamekeeper, who controls the meat, controls the fire and controls the vibe.

Garage Beer fans can purchase the packs for just $5.99 at www.drinkgaragebeer.com.

"The '90s had a grip on fall like no other era," said Garage Beer Founder and CEO Andy Sauer. "Football season, trading cards, Halloween, there was just something about it. We wanted to bring all of that nostalgia together with Terrors of the Tailgate and have some fun with the characters and traditions that make football season what it is. And no matter what decade you're in, a good tailgate still comes down to the basics: friends, Garage Beer in the cooler and Kingsford charcoal in the grill. If you're not grilling or drinking, you're probably not tailgating."

The Terrors will also come to life in one hero spot showcasing the entire lineup, which will live across Garage Beer's social channels with Garage Beer co-owner and creative mastermind Jason Kelce leading the search.

Whether you're the one manning the grill, raiding the cooler or making predictions nobody asked for, there's a Terror in every tailgate. Grab Garage Beer and Kingsford Charcoal to bring out the best, and the beast, in you and your friends this football season.

About:

Don't worry Garage Beer isn't scary, it's America's fastest-growing light beer, now available in all 50 states. Crisp, crushable, and brewed for good times, Garage Beer is a no-nonsense 4% ABV lager with just 95 calories and 3g of carbs. It comes in two crowd-favorite varieties: Classic and Lime. Beer finder locater here and follow the ride at www.drinkgaragebeer.com,  Instagram, and X.

Media Contact:

James Masello

jmasello@drinkgaragebeer.com

SOURCE Garage Beer

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SUNSTONE HOTEL INVESTORS SCHEDULES THIRD QUARTER 2026 EARNINGS RELEASE AND CONFERENCE CALL

ALISO VIEJO, Calif., Sept. 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Sunstone Hotel Investors, Inc. (the "Company" or "Sunstone") (NYSE: SHO) announced that it will report financial results for the third quarter 2026 on Friday, November 6, 2026, before the market opens. Management will hold its quarterly conference call the same day, at 12:00 p.m. Eastern Time (9:00 a.m. Pacific Time).

A live webcast of the call will be available through the Investor Relations section of the Company's website at www.sunstonehotels.com. A transcript of the call will also be archived on the website. Alternatively, interested parties may dial 1-833-461-5787 and reference Meeting ID 981 061 229 to listen to the live call.

About Sunstone Hotel Investors:

Sunstone Hotel Investors, Inc. is a lodging real estate investment trust ("REIT"). Sunstone's strategy is to create long-term stakeholder value through the acquisition, active ownership, and disposition of well-located hotel and resort real estate. For further information, please visit Sunstone's website at www.sunstonehotels.com.

For Additional Information:

Aaron Reyes

Chief Financial Officer

Sunstone Hotel Investors, Inc.

(949) 382-3018

SOURCE Sunstone Hotel Investors, Inc.

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