Amerex Launches Jeep® Brand Outerwear Collection for Fall 2026

Heritage-inspired outerwear brings rugged performance and adventure-ready style to consumers nationwide

NEW YORK, Sept. 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Amerex announced the launch of Jeep® brand outerwear for Fall 2026, a new collection for men, women and kids, inspired by the iconic spirit of adventure and designed for consumers who embrace an active, always-moving lifestyle.

Offering timeless designs engineered for adventure, the Fall 2026 collection brings the distinctive Jeep brand aesthetic to a versatile range of outerwear designed for everyday exploration. From changing fall weather to weekend getaways and outdoor adventures, the collection is designed to deliver dependable functionality without compromising style.

"Today's consumer wants outerwear that can move with them, from everyday life to spontaneous adventures," said Ira Ganger, CEO, Amerex. "The Jeep brand has always represented freedom, exploration and the confidence to go wherever the road leads. With this collection, we are bringing that spirit to outerwear in a way that feels authentic, versatile and relevant to how people live today."

The Fall 2026 Jeep outerwear collection will be available through a growing network of leading retailers, including Macy's, Amazon and Belk, bringing the collection to consumers in stores and online.

The launch represents an expansion of Amerex's portfolio into a globally recognized lifestyle brand rooted in adventure and authentic American heritage. With its combination of recognizable Jeep brand design cues, practical performance and everyday versatility, the collection is positioned to appeal to consumers looking for outerwear that works as hard as they do.

About Amerex

Known as one of the largest US based companies in the outerwear and swimwear business, Amerex designs, manufactures, and markets apparel for women, children, and men to virtually all channels of distribution under various licensed, proprietary, and private label brands. The Amerex Group began in 1932 as an export company in Asia. In 1946, they established global headquarters in New York. Amerex became vertically integrated with strong New York-based design, marketing, and distribution functions to complement company-owned factories in Asia. The company now has overseas offices in Asia that are engaged in the supervision of apparel production in over 100 factories worldwide. Amerex continues to grow through acquisitions and has added several top licensed brands to its roster within the past few years, including Jeep, Kate Spade, Jessica Simpson, Vince Camuto, Nine West, Trina Turk, Sanctuary, and Lucky Brand. These recent additions complement our existing proprietary brands including Bleu Rod Beattie, Becca by Rebecca Virtue, Beyond Control, Weather Tamer and more.

Jeep® Brand

For 85 years, Jeep® has been a global leader in SUVs, delivering legendary off-road capability, advanced technology and exceptional versatility for those who seek fun and adventure. With a commitment to innovation, the Jeep brand offers a diverse lineup of vehicles powered by internal combustion engines, hybrid technology and all-electric drivetrains. Built on a heritage of freedom, adventure, authenticity and passion, Jeep continues to set the standard for rugged and refined vehicles designed to conquer it all.

Media Contact

[email protected]

212.609.3000

www.amerexgroup.com

SOURCE Amerex Group LLC

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Carestream Healthcare International Launches STARVIEW Digital Radiography System

SHANGHAI, Sept. 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Carestream Healthcare International announces the launch of the CARESTREAM STARVIEW Digital Radiography System, a focused, floor-mounted DR room designed for routine radiographic imaging.

Healthcare facilities modernize radiography for different reasons, from introducing a first DR room and replacing film-based, CR or aging DR systems to improving digital workflows and adding routine-imaging capacity. STARVIEW provides a practical solution for these different projects.

Built around the value pillars Fully Digital, Easy to Adopt and Built to Grow, STARVIEW combines digital image acquisition, practical room operation and configuration flexibility. The system supports patient and examination management, digital image acquisition, image review and output across connected or standalone workflow environments.

STARVIEW includes a wireless 43 × 43 cm detector with charging in the detector tray, an 8-inch tube-head touchscreen, table detector-tray auto-tracking, detector-locking features and three generator configurations for different electrical-infrastructure requirements. One detector is included in the standard configuration, with an optional second detector available to support different room workflows.

"Healthcare facilities have different digital-radiography requirements depending on their workflow, infrastructure and stage of modernization," said Felix Zhang, Senior Product Line Manager, Carestream Healthcare International. "STARVIEW provides a focused solution for routine imaging, giving customers a practical way to introduce, replace or expand digital-radiography capacity with configurations aligned to their current needs."

Please note: STARVIEW may not be available in all countries. Product configurations and options may vary by market. For more information about STARVIEW and its availability in your market, please contact your local Carestream representative.

To learn more about STARVIEW, please visit https://www.carestreamhealthcare.com/global/en/medical/starview.

About Carestream Healthcare International.

Carestream Healthcare International draws on a century-old imaging heritage to empower healthcare providers worldwide. We deliver advanced X-ray systems, DR solutions, medical imaging films, intraoperative C-arm imaging, AI-enabled innovations, and full-lifecycle services. As a member of Midea Group, we combine global imaging expertise with Midea's intelligent manufacturing and technology ecosystem to deliver high-quality, efficient, and accessible medical imaging solutions.

For more information about the company's broad portfolio of products, solutions and services, please contact your Carestream representative or visit www.carestreamhealthcare.com.

Carestream Healthcare International 

Website: www.carestreamhealthcare.com

Email: [email protected]

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/carestream-healthcare-international/

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PERMIAN BASIN ROYALTY TRUST ANNOUNCES SEPTEMBER CASH DISTRIBUTION AND EXCESS COST POSITION ON WADDELL RANCH PROPERTIES

DALLAS, Sept. 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Argent Trust Company, as Trustee of the Permian Basin Royalty Trust (NYSE: PBT) ("Permian" or the "Trust") today declared a cash distribution to the holders of its units of beneficial interest of $0.019593 per unit, payable on October 15, 2026, to unit holders of record on September 30, 2026. The distribution does not include proceeds from the Waddell Ranch properties, as total production costs ("Production Costs") exceeded gross proceeds ("Gross Proceeds") for the month of August, resulting in a continuing excess cost position for the Waddell Ranch properties. More information regarding the Waddell Ranch properties is described below.

This month's distribution increased compared to the previous month due primarily a decrease in Trust expenses, partially offset by Texas Royalty Properties having lower oil and natural gas volumes and oil pricing, with natural gas pricing increasing.

WADDELL RANCH

Information from Blackbeard Operating, LLC ("Blackbeard"), the operator of the Waddell Ranch properties, necessary to calculate the net profits interest ("NPI") proceeds for a given month is received after the announcement date for the month's distribution. As a result, in accordance with the Trust indenture, if NPI proceeds are received from the Waddell Ranch properties on or prior to the record date, they will be included in the following month's distribution.

As noted above, no proceeds were received by the Trustee in August 2026 to be included in the September distribution. All excess costs, including any accrued interest, will need to be recovered by future proceeds from the Waddell Ranch properties before any proceeds are distributed to the Trust. Due to the fact that Blackbeard provides production, pricing and cost information quarterly instead of monthly, the Trustee will be disclosing that information in the quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and annual reports on Form 10-K for the foreseeable future (to the extent timely received from Blackbeard).

TEXAS ROYALTY PROPERTIES

Production for the underlying Texas Royalty Properties was 15,042 barrels of oil and 5,439 Mcf of gas. The production for the Trust's allocated portion of the Texas Royalty Properties was 13,460 barrels of oil and 4,868 Mcf of gas. The average price for oil was $83.20 per bbl and for gas was $13.49, which includes significant NGL pricing, per Mcf. This would mainly reflect production and pricing in June for oil and May for gas. These allocated volumes were impacted by the pricing of both oil and gas. This production and pricing for the underlying properties resulted in revenues for the Texas Royalty Properties of $1,324,846. Deducted from these revenues were taxes and expenses of $135,365 resulting in a Net Profit of $1,189,481 for August. With the Trust's NPI of 95% of the underlying properties, this would result in a net contribution by the Texas Royalty Properties of $1,130,007 to this month's distribution.

General and Administrative Expenses deducted for the month, net of interest earned were $216,779, resulting in a distribution of $913,228.22 to 46,608,796 units outstanding, or $0.019593 per unit.

The worldwide market conditions continue to affect the pricing for domestic production. It is difficult to predict what effect these conditions will have on future distributions.

SOFTVEST PROPOSAL

As previously disclosed, the Trustee was notified by SoftVest, L.P. ("SoftVest"), a Unitholder of the Trust, that on July 28, 2026, SoftVest and certain of its affiliates entered into a definitive Combination Agreement with Blackbeard Holdings, LLC and certain of its affiliates ("Blackbeard Holdings") pursuant to which they propose to combine the assets of the Trust and certain oil and natural gas mineral interest and land operations owned by Blackbeard Holdings to create a new publicly traded corporation, PBT Land and Minerals, Inc. ("New PBT") (the "Business Combination"). Completion of the Business Combination is subject to a vote of Trust Unitholders. SoftVest and certain other unitholders representing in excess of 15% of the Trust Units have, as permitted by the Trust Indenture, requested that the Trustee call a special meeting of Trust Unitholders for purposes of considering amendments to the Trust Indenture that would implement the Business Combination and related matters. New PBT has filed a registration statement on Form S-4 that includes a prospectus and a proxy statement for purposes of soliciting proxies with respect to the special meeting. New PBT has also filed a registration statement on Form S-1 pursuant to which it will make a rights offering to Trust Unitholders with respect to shares of New PBT.

Neither the Trust, nor the Trustee is a party to the Combination Agreement, nor is the Trust or the Trustee soliciting proxies or participating in any offering of securities. The Trustee is not making any recommendation to Trust Unitholders as to how to vote with respect to the Business Combination or other proposals at the special meeting. Unitholders will be notified of the record date and meeting date for the special meeting at a later date.

The 2025 Annual Report on Form 10-K/A, which includes the December 31, 2025, Reserve Summary, has been filed with the Securities Exchange Commission. Permian's cash distribution history, current and prior year financial reports, tax information booklets, and a link to filings made with the Securities and Exchange Commission, all can be found on Permian's website at http://www.pbt-permian.com/. Additionally, printed reports can be requested and are mailed free of charge.

IMPORTANT ADDITIONAL INFORMATION AND WHERE TO FIND IT

This press release is not a proxy solicitation. None of the Trust, the Trustee, or the Trustee's officers or directors, are soliciting proxies in connection with any special meeting of Trust unitholders and are not participants in any solicitation of proxies by New PBT, SoftVest and/or other unitholders in connection with any special meeting. The Trust and the Trustee are not making any offering of securities. The Trustee and the Trust are making this communication for informational purposes only and do not intend to file a proxy statement or registration statement with respect to the proposed Business Combination.

New PBT has filed (i) a registration statement on Form S-4, which includes a proxy statement relating to a meeting of Trust unitholders and a prospectus of New PBT, and (ii) a Form S-1 registering securities of New PBT with respect to the rights offering with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Unitholders and other investors are strongly encouraged to read the Form S-4, including the proxy statement/prospectus, the Form S-1, any amendments to the Form S-4 and/or Form S-1, and any other documents filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission when they become available because they will contain important information. Unitholders may obtain a free copy of any Form S-4, proxy statement/prospectus, Form S-1, and any amendments and documents that New PBT or SoftVest files with the SEC from the SEC's website at www.sec.gov.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

Any statements in this press release about future events or conditions, and other statements containing the words "estimates," "believes," "anticipates," "plans," "expects," "will," "may," "intends," and similar expressions, other than historical facts, constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Factors or risks that could cause the Trust's actual results to differ materially from the results the Trustee anticipates include, but are not limited to the factors described in Part I, Item 1A, "Risk Factors" of the Trust's Annual Report on Form 10-K/A for the year ended December 31, 2025, and Part II, Item 1A, "Risk Factors" of subsequently filed Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q as well as factors related to actions by SoftVest or other unitholders, New PBT, Blackbeard Holdings, or other third parties, including courts, that are not within the control of the Trust or the Trustee.

Actual results may differ materially from those indicated by such forward-looking statements. In addition, the forward-looking statements included in this press release represent the Trustee's views as of the date hereof. The Trustee anticipates that subsequent events and developments may cause its views to change. However, while the Trustee may elect to update these forward-looking statements at some point in the future, it specifically disclaims any obligation to do so. These forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as representing the Trustee's views as of any date subsequent to the date hereof.

Contact: Nancy Willis, Director of Royalty Trust Services, Argent Trust Company, Trustee, Toll Free – 1.855.588.7839

SOURCE Permian Basin Royalty Trust

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CROSS TIMBERS ROYALTY TRUST DECLARES SEPTEMBER CASH DISTRIBUTION

DALLAS, Sept. 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Argent Trust Company, as Trustee of the Cross Timbers Royalty Trust (the "Trust") (NYSE: CRT), today declared a cash distribution to the holders of its units of beneficial interest of $0.064277 per unit, payable on October 15, 2026, to unitholders of record on September 30, 2026. The following table shows underlying oil and gas sales and average prices attributable to the current month and prior month distributions.

Excess Costs

XTO Energy has advised the Trustee that excess costs increased by $277,000 on properties underlying the Texas Working Interest net profits interests. However, these excess costs did not reduce net proceeds from the remaining conveyances. Underlying cumulative excess costs remaining on the Texas Working Interest net profits interests total $6,332,000, including accrued interest of $1,762,000.

XTO Energy has advised the Trustee that $67,000 of excess costs were recovered on properties underlying the Oklahoma Working Interest net profits interests. However, after the partial recovery, there were no remaining proceeds from the properties underlying the Oklahoma Working Interest net profits interests to be included in this month's distribution. Underlying cumulative excess costs remaining on the Oklahoma Working Interest net profits interests total $488,000, including accrued interest of $37,000.

For more information on the Trust, including the annual tax information, distribution amounts, and historical press releases, please visit our website at www.crt-crosstimbers.com.

SOURCE Cross Timbers Royalty Trust

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Got Electric Named One of Three Candidates for Mauloa's 2026 SMB Accelerator

Maryland electrical contractor selected for three-month program focused on business growth, workforce culture, marketing, working capital and practical AI integration

FREDERICK, Md., Sept. 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Got Electric LLC, a Maryland-based electrical contractor serving commercial and residential customers throughout Maryland, Virginia and the Washington, DC region, has been named one of three candidates participating in Mauloa's 2026 SMB Accelerator.

Got Electric joins fellow Maryland family-owned businesses Strategic Factory and AceCo in the three-month program. Mauloa screened a broader field of businesses throughout the Washington, DC region before narrowing the 2026 cohort to three candidates.

The accelerator gives participating companies direct access to Mauloa's team and experience across four areas of business development: working capital, marketing, company culture, and practical applications of artificial intelligence. The program concludes November 25, when one of the participating companies is expected to receive an investment offer ranging from $10 million to $30 million.

For Got Electric, the opportunity arrives during a period of continued growth across its electrical, commercial solar and energy-related operations.

"This opportunity is meaningful because it recognizes more than the projects Got Electric completes," said Grant Gotlinger, President of Got Electric. "It reflects the people, partnerships and investments in workforce development that have helped build the company. The accelerator gives us an opportunity to learn from experienced business leaders while continuing to strengthen the company our employees and customers depend on."

The accelerator candidacy follows a year of significant industry recognition for Got Electric. Solar Power World recently named the company to its 2026 Top Solar Contractors List, ranking Got Electric No. 92 among solar contractors nationwide and No. 4 in Maryland. The company also received recognition for its commercial solar work, rooftop projects and role as an electrical subcontractor.

Those rankings reflect a business that has expanded beyond traditional electrical contracting into increasingly complex energy infrastructure. Got Electric's capabilities include commercial electrical work, commercial solar operations and maintenance, battery storage and electric vehicle infrastructure, along with residential electrical services throughout the Mid-Atlantic region.

That growth has also increased the importance of developing the skilled workforce required to support it.

Got Electric has invested in apprenticeship and workforce-development initiatives designed to create career pathways for electricians and solar technicians. Apprentices gain paid field experience alongside licensed journeyperson electricians, while educational partnerships in Maryland and Virginia help connect classroom instruction with real-world electrical and renewable-energy projects.

The company's workforce initiatives have also extended into commercial solar. Through partnerships such as its work with Secure Solar Futures at Mountain Empire Community College in Virginia, Got Electric has helped connect technical education with hands-on field experience on large-scale solar installations.

As demand for electrical infrastructure, solar O&M, storage and electrification continues to grow, Got Electric views workforce development as an essential part of maintaining the technical standards and service capabilities required by customers.

The company has also continued using its electrical and solar expertise to support community organizations.

In 2026, Got Electric donated 57 surplus solar panels to Shenandoah County SEARCH Inc., a Virginia nonprofit providing residential services for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities and operating a community thrift store. Twelve panels are designated for SEARCH's group home, where the planned system is projected to offset approximately 75% of the building's electricity use. Another 45 panels are intended for the organization's thrift store once remaining installation funding is secured.

The donation marked the second consecutive year Got Electric redirected surplus solar equipment to a nonprofit organization through a partnership with GiveSolar.

Together, the company's industry recognition, workforce initiatives, expanding technical capabilities and community partnerships provide the broader context for its participation in the Mauloa Accelerator.

"Got Electric stood out because its culture is a genuine competitive advantage. In an industry where skilled labor is the biggest constraint on growth, Grant and his team are developing their own talent through paid apprenticeships and education partnerships, while giving back to their community along the way. Grant is a leader we like, trust, and admire," said Andrew Sachs, Founding Partner of Mauloa.

Got Electric will participate in the accelerator through November 25 while continuing to serve customers and partners throughout Maryland, Virginia and the Washington, DC region.

For Gotlinger, the program also provides an opportunity to recognize the foundation already built by the people behind the company while examining what will be required for its next stage of growth.

"Being part of the accelerator is a reason to celebrate what Got Electric has been working toward for years," Gotlinger said. "Strong technical capabilities matter, but so do the people building their careers here, the partnerships that make the work possible and the communities that trust Got Electric to serve them. Those are the things the company intends to keep building on."

About Got Electric LLC

Got Electric LLC is a full-service electrical contractor based in Ijamsville, Maryland, serving commercial and residential customers throughout Maryland, Virginia and the Washington, DC metropolitan area. Its capabilities include commercial and residential electrical services, commercial solar operations and maintenance, EV infrastructure, battery storage, and renewable-energy electrical systems. Got Electric was ranked No. 92 nationally and No. 4 in Maryland on Solar Power World's 2026 Top Solar Contractors List. The company also invests in apprenticeship, workforce development and community partnerships designed to strengthen the electrical and renewable-energy industries it serves. For more information about Got Electric, visit https://gotelectric.net/.

About Mauloa

Mauloa is a long-term investment firm that provides owner liquidity and working capital to family-owned businesses to help accelerate growth. The firm typically invests $10 million to $30 million for a 30% to 40% ownership stake in middle-market companies without using debt, disrupting company culture, or forcing an eventual sale. Instead, Mauloa and its partner companies receive regular cash distributions from profits, which the firm says helps keep interests aligned over the long term. Qualified companies generally have more than $20 million in revenue, generate at least $3 million in cash flow rather than EBITDA, and are led by people Mauloa describes as individuals they "like, trust, and admire." Originally founded in 2007 as Sachs Capital, Mauloa, which means "endless" in Hawaiian, has deployed more than $200 million and partnered with more than 20 companies, primarily in business services.

SOURCE Got Electric, LLC

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SOUTHBOROUGH, Mass., Sept. 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Virtusa Corporation today announced the appointment of Srinivas BG as its new Chairman of the Board of Directors, effective October 1st, 2026.

Srinivas BG brings over 40 years of global business leadership experience to Virtusa's Board of Directors. A highly regarded executive, he has a proven track record of delivering robust financial performance and multi-stakeholder value across the Information Technology, Telecommunications, Financial Services, and Manufacturing industries. Throughout his distinguished career, BG has held key leadership positions at leading global organizations, including PCCW, Infosys, and ABB, where he successfully navigated complex digital transformations, scaled multi-billion dollar business engines, and led large-scale acquisition integrations.

"We are excited to welcome BG to Virtusa as our new Chairman," said Nitesh Banga, President and Chief Executive Officer, Virtusa. "His deep expertise in digital transformation, combined with his proven ability to guide enterprises through rapid technological disruption and geopolitical change, makes him an invaluable leader for our Board. We look forward to leveraging his strategic counsel as we continue to innovate and expand our value proposition to clients globally. We also want to extend our deepest gratitude to Raj Mehta for his leadership and exceptional contributions as Chairman since 2022"

"I have long admired Virtusa for its engineering excellence and its commitment to client-centric innovation," said Srinivas BG, incoming Chairman of the Board, Virtusa. "The technology landscape is evolving rapidly, particularly with the disruption of AI and shifting business imperatives. It is an honor to work with the Board and the leadership team to help guide Virtusa through this next chapter of growth and strategic evolution."

BG succeeds Raj Mehta, who has served as Chairman since 2022 and was instrumental in the company's maturity from a founder-run to a professional services organization. Raj, who remains an investor, will depart from his Board role effective October 1st, 2026, completing a months-long transition.

About Virtusa

Virtusa is a global product and platform engineering services company that makes experiences better with technology. We help organizations grow faster, more profitably, and more sustainably by reimagining enterprises through domain-driven solutions. We combine strategy, design, and engineering, backed by unmatched expertise at the intersection of industry, business, and technology to generate real-world business impact for clients.

Headquartered in Massachusetts with global delivery centers, Virtusa provides a broad range of services, solutions, and assets, including strategy and design, AI advisory and services, digital engineering, data and analytics, digital assurance, cloud and security, and managed services across industries such as financial services, healthcare, communications, media, entertainment, travel, manufacturing, and technology.

Virtusa is a registered trademark of Virtusa Corporation. All other company and brand names may be trademarks or service marks of their respective holders.

Media contact: [email protected]

SOURCE Virtusa Corporation

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Woodsboro Bank Names Mindy Kurz as Branch Manager of New Mt. Airy Branch

Experienced community banking leader selected to build local relationships and guide the new Mt. Airy Branch

FREDERICK, Md., Sept. 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Woodsboro Bank is pleased to announce the appointment of Mindy Kurz as Branch Manager of its new Mt. Airy branch. With more than 30 years of banking experience, she has successfully led branch operations, developed high-performing teams, strengthened client relationships, and built partnerships that support long-term growth and community development. Most recently, she served as a Universal Banker, where she assumed branch leadership responsibilities and fostered community partnerships while continuing to deliver exceptional service to both consumer and business clients.

As Branch Manager, Mindy will oversee daily operations of the Mt. Airy branch while leading efforts to build relationships throughout the community and help clients achieve their financial goals.

"I am honored to join Woodsboro Bank and help bring community banking back to Mt. Airy," said Mindy. "Throughout my career, I have been passionate about building meaningful relationships and helping individuals, families, and businesses succeed. I look forward to deepening my connection with the Mt. Airy community and creating a banking experience that is personal, responsive, and focused on what matters most to our clients."

Woodsboro Bank selected Mindy for her proven leadership, client-first approach, and deep understanding of community banking.

"Mindy embodies everything we value at Woodsboro Bank," said Thomas Ramsay, Executive Vice President/Chief Retail Officer. "Her decades of banking experience, commitment to exceptional client service, and passion for serving local communities make her the ideal leader for our Mt. Airy branch. As we expand into this vibrant market, Mindy will play a critical role in building relationships and ensuring that our clients experience the personalized service that sets Woodsboro Bank apart."

The new Mt. Airy branch represents Woodsboro Bank's continued investment in serving Frederick County and surrounding communities. Located in the heart of Mt. Airy, the branch will offer a full range of personal and business banking services, combining modern banking technology with the relationship-focused approach that has defined Woodsboro Bank since 1899.

About Woodsboro Bank

Established in 1899 in response to the growing needs of the community, Woodsboro Bank is a community-based bank headquartered in Woodsboro, Maryland. With a vision to be the best bank in Central Maryland, Woodsboro Bank serves individuals, families, and businesses with a full suite of consumer and commercial financial products. With branch locations throughout Frederick County, Woodsboro Bank combines the financial resources of a regional institution with the personal care, agility, and heart of a true local partner. Driven by a commitment to community transformation, the Woodsboro Bank team is dedicated to helping local neighborhoods thrive together. For more information, visit woodsborobank.com.

SOURCE Woodsboro Bank

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Non-UPF Verified Surpasses 300 Products as Demand for Food Processing Transparency Grows

Program introduces a new consumer app that lets shoppers scan products, learn about food processing and ask their favorite brands to pursue verification

BELLINGHAM, Wash., Sept. 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Since opening for enrollment on January 21, 2026, the Non-UPF Verified program has grown to 304 verified products across 23 brands, reflecting demand for clearer information and greater transparency around how food is made.

The milestone follows a Sept. 17, NBC TODAY segment featuring Non-GMO Project CEO Megan Westgate and Simple Mills President Michelle Lorge exploring ultraprocessed foods, what processing can mean for the foods we eat and how Non-UPF Verified is helping shoppers make more informed choices.

"When we launched Non-UPF Verified earlier this year, we knew people were asking deeper questions about how their food is made," said Westgate. "Seeing more than 300 products achieve verification in a matter of months shows that brands are ready to meet that demand with greater transparency. People deserve meaningful information that goes beyond what they can see on an ingredient list. Verification means we've done the work behind the scenes to understand how a product was actually made."

A new tool for looking beyond the label

Now, a new Non-UPF Verified app is putting that information directly into shoppers' hands. The app allows users to scan the barcode on a packaged food to see whether it is Non-UPF Verified and learn more about what the certification means. If a product is not Verified, shoppers can request verification with a tap, creating a direct signal of consumer demand that can be shared with food makers.

"We don't just want people to change their shopping habits; we want to provide them with a way to engage and participate," Westgate said. "Every scan offers an opportunity to learn, and every request for verification signals to food brands that consumers want to be informed about how their food is made. This informed participation is key to creating meaningful change in the food system."

The app builds on the Non-GMO Project's relationships with more than 5,000 food brands across North America, helping connect consumer interest with the companies that make the foods shoppers buy every day.

Nearly 20 years of independent verification

Built by the nonprofit behind the Non-GMO Project Verified Butterfly, Non-UPF Verified brings nearly two decades of experience in independent food certification to one of today's biggest food conversations: What does "ultraprocessed" actually mean?

Non-UPF Verified is the first third-party certification program to use a rigorous standard specifically designed to evaluate how food is processed. The Standard was developed with input from experts across a range of fields. The program looks beyond the label, evaluating both what goes into a food and the processes used to make it.

Products must meet rigorous requirements for ingredient integrity and formulation, and processing limits and methods. At least 70% of a product's ingredients must meet the Standard's requirements for permissible minimal or moderate processing, while certain ingredients and processing methods associated with ultraprocessed foods are restricted or prohibited.

Verified products now span 15 food and beverage categories and include products from brands such as Amy's Kitchen, Simple Mills, Spindrift and Chomps. Another 41 brands are currently seeking verification, pointing to continued growth in the months ahead.

A growing national conversation about ultraprocessed foods

The growth of Non-UPF Verified comes as the question of how to define ultraprocessed food moves beyond research and into public policy. In California, lawmakers recently passed AB 2244, legislation that would establish a state-administered Non-Ultraprocessed Certified program if signed into law.

While both approaches reflect growing demand for clearer information about food processing, they take different paths. California's proposed program would determine eligibility using information available from a product's ingredients and nutritional profile. Non-UPF Verified goes further by evaluating the processing methods used to make the food, information that often cannot be found on the package.

That distinction draws on nearly 20 years of experience from the Non-GMO Project, where independent verification has long required looking beyond what consumers can see on a label and working directly with food makers and their supply chains to understand how products are made.

"We welcome the growing conversation about food processing and the opportunity to bring more transparency to how food is made," Westgate said. "There is real value in policymakers, researchers, food makers and certifiers bringing their different perspectives to this work. For us, processing itself needs to be part of the conversation. After nearly 20 years of verification work, we know that some of the most important information about a food simply isn't visible on the package."

"Our hope is to bring what we've learned to the table and help build a shared understanding of food processing that is useful for consumers, workable for the industry and supports a food system that truly nourishes life."

Find, scan and request Non-UPF Verified products

Consumers can explore Non-UPF Verified products at nonultraprocessed.org/product-finder. The Non-UPF Verified app is available for iOS and Android users. Learn more at nonultraprocessed.org/non-upf-verified-app/.

Brands interested in pursuing verification can learn more at nonultraprocessed.org.

About the Non-GMO Project

The Non-GMO Project is a mission-driven nonprofit with nearly 20 years of experience in independent food verification. Today, the organization operates two verification programs: Non-GMO Project Verified, represented by the trusted Butterfly seal on more than 63,000 products, and Non-UPF Verified, which brings greater transparency to how food is made by evaluating ingredients, formulation and processing.

Together, these programs reflect the organization's growing commitment to food integrity and its vision for a food system that nourishes people and the planet. Learn more at nongmoproject.org and nonultraprocessed.org.

Media Contact: [email protected] | +1 (360) 255-7704

SOURCE Non-GMO Project

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Two trusted fire protection companies unite to expand capabilities, strengthen services, and create new opportunities for customers and employees

POTTSTOWN, Pa., Sept. 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Total Fire Protection (TFP), a leading provider of fire protection services, today announced the addition of Victory Fire Protection, based in Pottstown, Pennsylvania, to its growing network of nationwide locations. The addition marks Total Fire Protection's ninth location and expands the company's footprint into a fifth state, establishing its first presence in Pennsylvania. This brings together two experienced fire protection companies committed to protecting lives and property through dependable service, technical expertise, and lasting customer relationships.

By combining their teams, resources, and capabilities, Total Fire Protection and Victory Fire Protection will better serve customers throughout the greater Philadelphia area and across Pennsylvania. The combined organization will offer an expanded range of fire and life safety services while maintaining the personalized attention and trusted relationships customers expect.

"This merger brings together two strong teams with shared values and a commitment to exceptional service," said Ryan Goossens, President of Total Fire Protection. "Together, we will be better equipped to serve our customers, support our employees, and continue building for the future."

Originally founded by Vic and Sue Weigand, the company is now led by current owner Digger Weigand. Victory Fire Protection has built a strong reputation throughout the greater Pottstown area for its commitment to reliability, technical expertise, and customer service. The company provides a full range of fire protection services, including design, inspections, testing, maintenance, and emergency repairs.

"Joining Total Fire Protection allows us to offer our customers the same trusted, local service they've always relied on, now backed by the resources, technology, and national scale of a larger organization," said Weigand, President of Victory Fire Protection, who will remain in his current role. "We're excited about what this partnership means for our team and our customers — and for the new capabilities we can now bring to Pennsylvania through Total Fire & Security and Total Industrial Solutions."

Victory Fire Protection will expand its offerings to customers through two additional divisions: Total Fire & Security and Total Industrial Solutions. These divisions will allow the Pottstown team to provide Pennsylvania customers with a broader range of integrated services, including security system design, installation, and monitoring, and industrial safety solutions, including dry chemical and fire foam suppression systems, flame detectors and fire pumps, alongside its core fire protection capabilities.

The combined organization will provide a comprehensive range of services, including:

- Fire sprinkler system design and installation.

- Fire sprinkler repairs, inspections, testing, and maintenance.

- Fire alarm and security system design, installation, and monitoring.

- Fire alarm and security inspections, testing, and maintenance.

- Industrial Solutions, including installation, inspections, and maintenance

- Special Hazards testing and fire pump installation

- 24-hour emergency service

With the addition of Victory Fire Protection, Total Fire Protection now operates nine locations across five states, reflecting the company's continued growth strategy of partnering with respected, established fire protection businesses that share its commitment to quality, safety, and service excellence.

Total Fire Protection plans to continue this growth trajectory and seek additional partnerships with best-in-class fire protection companies nationwide.

About Total Fire Protection

Founded in 1991, Total Fire Protection is a family-owned-and-operated, full-service fire protection company committed to protecting lives and property. Headquartered in Grand Rapids, Michigan, the nationwide company serves customers through locations in Michigan, Florida, Colorado, Montana, and Pennsylvania. Total Fire Protection provides comprehensive fire and life safety services, including system design, installation, inspection, testing, maintenance, 24-hour emergency support, fire alarm & security, and industrial solutions.

For more information, visit www.totalfire.biz or call 800-513-7804.

About Victory Fire Protection

Founded in 1993 and based in Pottstown, Pennsylvania, Victory Fire Protection provides comprehensive fire sprinkler services for homeowners, residential builders, and commercial contractors throughout Pennsylvania. Its services include in-house system design, installation, inspections, maintenance, retrofits, repairs, and 24-hour emergency support.

For more information, visit www.vicfire.net or call 888-842-3473.

SOURCE Total Fire Protection

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2026 Tang Prize Award Ceremony Honors Six Laureates

Outstanding Achievements for Global Well-Being and Our Shared Future

TAIPEI, Sept. 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The 2026 Tang Prize Award Ceremony brought together all six laureates in Taipei on September 18, with five receiving their awards in person and Biopharmaceutical Science laureate Dr. Steven A. Rosenberg taking part remotely. The laureates drew on decades of research, scholarship, and practice to address some of the most pressing challenges facing humanity and share their hopes for the future.

This year marked the first Tang Prize Award Ceremony since the passing of Tang Prize Founder Dr. Samuel Yen-Liang Yin, and a commemorative video was shown in his honor. Dr. Chung-Yao Yin, Chairman of the Tang Prize Foundation, said the framework and spirit established by his father will continue to be carried forward, and that the ceremony represents a continuation of the vision on which the Tang Prize was founded. Academician Chi-Huey Wong, President of the Tang Prize Selection Committee, said the selection committees for all four prize categories have consistently upheld objective, impartial, and professional standards in selecting laureates.

Professor Susan Solomon, the 2026 Tang Prize Laureate in Sustainable Development, noted that today's global environmental challenges may seem just as intractable as ozone depletion once did, but a combination of "science, public engagement, industry participation, and wise policy" enabled humanity to overcome that crisis. She expressed hope that humanity will once again succeed in "the moonshot of safeguarding our environment instead of destroying it."

Among the 2026 Tang Prize Laureates in Biopharmaceutical Science, Dr. Steven A. Rosenberg recalled that four decades ago, his team's work showed that tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) derived from patients' tumors could mediate cancer regression, demonstrating that a patient's own lymphocytes could serve as a "living drug" against cancer. The work later led to therapeutic strategies using T cell receptors (TCRs) and chimeric antigen receptors (CARs). Rosenberg called it "a proud example of academic research" that led to lifesaving cancer treatments now available worldwide.

Dr. Michel Sadelain recalled that the idea of targeting CD19 with CAR T cells in the 1990s was rejected by most in academia and industry. He said the only way to advance the concept was to "do it yourself." His team treated its first patient in 2007, and the first CD19-targeted CAR therapies were approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 2017. Sadelain expressed particular gratitude to "the brave ones who risked their careers when this work was labelled 'science fiction.'"

Dr. Carl H. June said that for patients in the early clinical trials, the question was not whether CAR T-cell therapy was an elegant scientific idea, but whether it could give them more time: "Time with a spouse. Time to see a child grow up. For a child, time simply to grow up." He said patients and their families are "at the heart of this award" because they trusted the research team amid profound uncertainty. He added that whether a treatment reaches the people who need it must be part of how success is measured.

Professor Ge Zhaoguang, the 2026 Tang Prize Laureate in Sinology, noted that Sinology has become a global field of scholarship. Perspectives from different countries and regions are like mirrors held at different angles, together revealing a China that is nuanced and multifaceted. In his view, "the synthesis of East and West, together with pluralism and openness," is the path toward a flourishing field of Sinology.

Professor Bruce Ackerman, the 2026 Tang Prize Laureate in Rule of Law, reflected on growing up in one of New York City's most impoverished neighborhoods in the 1950s. His experience in public schools shaped by John Dewey's philosophy of progressive education encouraged him to explore alternative paths and think independently. At Harvard, he was deeply influenced by John Rawls. To this day, he continues to collaborate with colleagues in academia to explore the underlying sources of the worldwide crisis threatening the future of the rule of law.

Note: Livestream: https://youtube.com/live/DYKirmt37DI?feature=share

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