NBBJ and Stanford University's Dr. Kevin Schulman, MD, Partner to Rethink Hospital Design for the Age of AI

SAN FRANCISCO, Sept. 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- NBBJ is partnering with Dr. Kevin Schulman, MD, a Stanford physician, health economist and professor, to explore how advances in AI and new models of care delivery will reshape hospital design.

The partnership comes at a critical moment. Hospitals are planning multibillion-dollar campuses that will operate for decades, even as AI, automation and distributed care make it increasingly difficult to predict how future care will be delivered. The challenge is not simply how to integrate today's technology, but how to make long-term real estate investments flexible enough to evolve with what comes next.

The collaboration brings together Schulman's research at the intersection of medicine, business and technology with NBBJ's experience designing some of the world's leading healthcare environments.

"This has been an exciting project to consider how technology will change the practice of medicine and the physical environment supporting the practice. It's exciting to think about how data and workflows will change in response to the revolution in AI. Anticipating how the physical environment will shift requires a more expansive perspective on the future of medicine. NBBJ has been a great partner as we iterate through these exciting challenges," says Dr. Kevin Schulman, MD, Professor of Medicine, Stanford University.

Schulman is a Professor of Medicine and, by courtesy, Professor of Operations, Information and Technology at Stanford's Graduate School of Business. His recent work examines the integration of AI into clinical workflows and new economic models for AI-enabled care.

NBBJ brings complementary expertise in healthcare design and innovation. The firm partners with 75% of the U.S. News & World Report Best Hospitals Honor Roll and has helped leading health systems pioneer approaches to prefabrication, modular and universal planning, resilience and sustainable healthcare design.

Through lectures, working sessions and design explorations, Schulman and NBBJ are addressing challenges such as information overload, patient flow, rising costs, workforce pressures and the migration of care beyond the hospital.

"AI is changing how care is delivered, how clinicians work, and how hospitals operate, with real implications for the buildings and campuses our clients are planning today. This partnership brings together Dr. Schulman's medical, technological and financial expertise with NBBJ's track record in design innovation to better understand those implications and help our clients make informed decisions about what comes next," says Ryan Hullinger, Partner, NBBJ.

NBBJ and Schulman will begin sharing early insights with healthcare clients this fall, with the program continuing more broadly through 2027.

SOURCE NBBJ

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Former Remington Hospitality CEO returns with a new operating model designed to reverse a decade of margin erosion crushing U.S. hotel owners

DALLAS, Sept. 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Sloan Dean launches AI Hospitality Group (AIHG), the hospitality industry's first fully vertical, AI-native hotel operating company. Dean, former CEO and President of Remington Hospitality is joined by Co-Founder & CTO Kishan Dahya, Chief Operating Officer Eve Moore and Founding Partner & Head of Data and Analytics, Zach Cunningham. AIHG is reimagining how hotels are managed: combining a 60-plus agent autonomous back-office with a guest-facing hospitality team to deliver 500-plus basis points of GOP margin improvement to owners.

"Hotel owners don't have a tools problem. They have an operating model problem," said Dean. "The industry has spent a decade buying software while EBITDA margins eroded from roughly 30 percent to 20 percent. AIHG isn't another vendor selling a dashboard. We sign the management agreement, take responsibility for the P&L, and deliver the outcome. AI runs the back office so humans can run the guest experience."

A New Operating Model for a Squeezed Industry

Hotel owners are facing the most challenging operating environment in generations. CMBS delinquency rates for limited-service hotels reached 8.35 percent in July 2025, more than double their 2022 low. Sixty-five percent of North American hotels reported staffing shortages in 2025, with labor costs rising 11.2 percent year over year. U.S. hotel EBITDA margins have eroded approximately 20 percent since 2019.

AIHG is addressing the hotel industry's structural operating challenges head-on. It is the hotel industry's first AI-native services company, or AINS—a category defined by Emergence Capital in 2024 as companies that use AI to deliver outcomes rather than sell software. Rather than licensing its technology to existing operators, AIHG signs the hotel management agreement and uses its proprietary technology to improve hotel operations and expand margins—increasing GOP and, ultimately, driving higher NOI for owners.

Instead of building another AI point solution, AIHG has developed an agentic orchestration layer on top of a unified data architecture. It brings together more than 20 disparate data sources in a single semantic model, enabling AI agents to execute workflows end to end across recruiting, accounting, revenue management, marketing, and more. As the operator, AIHG also redesigns the underlying processes around this technology. With agents handling back-office work, on-property teams can spend more time hosting guests and focusing on the strategic work that drives both guest experience and financial performance. There is a solid financial benefit that is hard to quantify but comes from delivering a great - and consistent - guest experience. This shows up in guest retention as well as in guest acquisition.

A Founding Team Built for the Moment

Dean previously served as CEO of Remington Hospitality for eight years. He scaled its third party business from zero to over 100 hotels bringing total hotels under management to 150, $1.6 billion in revenue, $8 billion in portfolio value, and 10,000+ employees.

Dean is joined by Co-Founder and CTO Kishan Dahya, a third-generation hotelier who grew up watching his family run Marriott-, Hyatt-, and Hilton-branded hotels. He began programming at 15, became a software engineer, worked in venture capital, and previously founded a venture-backed software company. LangChain, a leading framework for building agentic systems, has cited his work on AI-agent infrastructure.

Chief Operating Officer Eve Moore joins from Magna Hospitality Group, where she served as Executive Vice President of Operations. Prior to Magna, Eve served as Divisional Vice President of Operations at Remington Hospitality alongside Sloan. At AIHG she owns the Operations model — the general managers and on-property teams that stay fully human under the model — and the judgment call that defines it: what the agents run, and what stays with people.

AIHG has also assembled a strategic advisory board that includes David Kong, former CEO of BWH Hotel Group (Best Western); Bryan Dunn, founder of Cardinal Lands; Jonathan Vopinek, founder and CEO of White Label Asset Management, Josh Ernst, President & CFO of Long Table Growth Corp., Steven Nicholas, Managing Principal of Noble Investment Group and Scott Roby, President of Parable Hospitality.

Design Partnerships with The Ameswell Hotel and Parable Hospitality

AIHG launches with two design partnerships. The first is with The Ameswell Hotel, a premium independent property in Mountain View, California. The second puts the company's agents to work across two properties under the Parable Hospitality portfolio, the Aliso Viejo, California-based management platform that oversees more than 30 independent, lifestyle, soft-branded, and branded hotels across California and Hawaii. Together they test the same three agents in the two environments that matter most — a single independent hotel and an established multi-property, multi-brand operating company.

Both deployments measure the agents against KPIs including time-to-hire reduction, RFP response speed, and revenue forecast accuracy. Simone Harms, The Ameswell Hotel's Managing Director, joins AIHG as an Executive Advisor.

"What Sloan and the AIHG team are building is a refreshed operating model the industry has been waiting for," said Harms. "This is a real partnership between Management Company, Hotel and Technology — AI doing the work that doesn't belong in front of a guest, so our team can be fully present for the work that does."

"We built Parable around performance, accountability, and trust — and that means being willing to test what actually moves the needle for owners instead of waiting to see who goes first," said Scott Roby, President of Parable Hospitality. "What interests us about AIHG is that they're not asking us to change our systems or our teams. The agents do the back-office work, our people stay focused on the guest, and the results show up in the P&L where owners can see them."

AIHG launches with $7.5 million in seed funding, led by Rackhouse Venture Capital with participation from Sierra Ventures and Dynamo Ventures. The round also includes strategic angel investors across hospitality ownership, brand, and technology leadership. The capital will fund the expansion of AIHG's agentic platform and the onboarding of its first wave of managed hotels.

Kevin Novak, General Partner and Founder of Rackhouse Venture Capital joins AIHG as a Board Observer. "As Uber's first Head of Data Science, I know what it looks like when software fundamentally rewires the economics of a physical, operationally intense industry. That's exactly what AIHG is doing to hotel management. At Rackhouse, we invest in AI applied to the real world, and the combination of Sloan's operating track record, Kishan's technical depth, and a model where AIHG signs the management agreement and owns the outcome is the most compelling application of agentic AI to hospitality we've seen."

Now Signing Management Agreements

AIHG serves hotel owners across full-service, lifestyle, and independent properties and the company is currently reviewing management opportunities. Owners who want to see what the AIHG model can do to your P&L can reach the team at [email protected].

About AI Hospitality Group

AI Hospitality Group is the first AI-native hotel operating company and hospitality's first AI-native services (AINS) company, signing hotel management agreements directly with owners and combining autonomous back-office AI agents with a fully human, guest-facing hospitality team. Founded in 2026 and headquartered in Dallas, Texas, AIHG is led by former Remington Hospitality CEO Sloan Dean, Co-founder and Chief Technology Officer Kishan Dahya, and Chief Operating Officer Eve Moore, alongside a founding team with deep operating, technology, and capital markets experience. For more information, contact [email protected].

SOURCE AI Hospitality Group

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Hyundai has been a partner of the Braves since 2014, including the franchise's entire tenure at Truist Park and The Battery Atlanta

Hyundai continues to support live sports with Atlanta Braves partnership

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., Sept. 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Hyundai announced the renewal and extension of its long-standing partnership with the Atlanta Braves through the 2029 season, solidifying the automotive brand's commitment to the Braves organization and the Atlanta community.

Since 2014, Hyundai has been a partner of the Braves, including the franchise's entire tenure at Truist Park and The Battery Atlanta. This renewed commitment underscores Hyundai's dedication to supporting live sports and engaging with baseball's passionate fanbase.

As part of the renewed partnership, Hyundai maintains prominent visibility at Truist Park, including:

Stadium Signage: Prime outfield wall placements in Left Field and seating bowl signage behind the Visitors Dugout, viewable by fans during TV broadcasts and in-stadium attendance

Radio Broadcast Sponsor: Presenting sponsor of Braves Radio Network (BRN) Sunday broadcasts reaching 170 markets across eight states – the largest radio network in professional sports – and BravesVision, the team's owned and operated television network.

Alumni Sunday: Presenting sponsor of 'Alumni Sunday presented by Hyundai', held before every Braves Sunday home game at the Georgia Power Pavilion in The Battery Atlanta, where fans enjoy free autographs from notable Braves alumni

Community Giving: Since 2019, Hyundai Hope on Wheels—supported by Hyundai Motor America and its more than 855 U.S. dealers—has partnered with Children's Healthcare of Atlanta to invite a pediatric patient to throw the ceremonial first pitch at the Braves' final home game of the season or during Pediatric Cancer Awareness Month. This builds on Hyundai Hope on Wheels' more than $7.2 million in support of pediatric cancer research and care for Children's Healthcare of Atlanta since 2005.

"We're excited to announce our renewed partnership with the Atlanta Braves," said Sean Gilpin, chief marketing officer, Hyundai Motor America. "This partnership is especially important to us, not only because of our ongoing commitment to live sports and sports fans, but because of our relationship with the state of Georgia and all the Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America employees who call it home. We're looking forward to what this continued partnership will bring."

"We are happy to extend our long-time partnership with Hyundai and have long valued their impact both on our organization and across the Atlanta community," said Atlanta Braves Senior Vice President, Corporate & Premium Partnerships Jim Allen. "Hyundai has been a trusted and valued partner over the years, and their outstanding lineup of vehicles reflects the same commitment to performance and reliability that we strive for every day. We look forward to continuing our collaboration and growing this partnership for years to come."

This MLB partnership is one component of Hyundai's ongoing commitment to live sports which also includes activations around professional football, college basketball and the FIFA World Cup.

About Hyundai's Commitment in Georgia Georgia plays a key role in Hyundai's overall investment in the U.S. automotive industry. The Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant (HMGMA) outside Savannah, Georgia, is the largest economic development deal in Georgia state history. HMGMA is a $7.59 billion investment into domestic U.S. vehicle production, which will have the capacity to produce 500,000 vehicles and create more than 8,500 direct jobs on site (once up to full capacity). According to a recent Center for Automotive Research study, Hyundai's investments in Georgia are expected to create nearly 40,000 direct and indirect jobs and $4.6 billion in individual earnings every year.

Hyundai is also committed to giving back to the people of Georgia through various partnerships with schools and non-profit organizations with activities focused on child safety, STEM education, pediatric cancer research, sustainability and more.

About the Atlanta Braves Based in Atlanta since 1966, the Braves are the longest continuously operating franchise in Major League Baseball. Since 1991, Braves teams have earned two National League wild cards, 21 division championships, six National League pennants, and two World Series titles. Atlanta Braves games are telecast on BravesVision, with streaming available on Braves.TV. Radio broadcasts can be heard in Atlanta on 680 The Fan (AM)/93.7 (FM) and regionally on the Atlanta Braves Radio Network. Follow the Braves at braves.com, facebook.com/braves, and X.com/braves.

Hyundai Motor America Hyundai Motor America offers U.S. consumers a technology-rich lineup of cars, SUVs, and electrified vehicles, while supporting Hyundai Motor Company's Progress for Humanity vision. Hyundai has significant operations in the U.S., including its North American headquarters in California, the Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama assembly plant, the all-new Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America, several cutting-edge R&D facilities and more than 855 independent dealers. These operations are part of Hyundai Motor Group, which is investing $26 billion in the U.S. from 2025 to 2028. For more information, visit www.hyundainews.com.

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The article explains how each program supports child development, confidence, and physical fitness in different ways.

MT. JULIET, Tenn., Sept. 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- What is the difference between recreational gymnastics and competitive gymnastics for growing children? HelloNation has published the answer in a HelloNation article that breaks down how each path supports skill development, discipline, and long term growth.

The HelloNation article explains that recreational gymnastics is centered on enjoyment, movement, and steady progress. These gymnastics programs provide a structured setting where children learn basic skills, improve coordination, and build confidence at their own pace. The emphasis is on participation and personal growth rather than performance outcomes.

According to the article, recreational gymnastics classes typically include tumbling, balance work, and group activities. Children are encouraged to explore movement in a supportive environment. This flexibility allows them to strengthen physical fitness while developing social skills through teamwork and shared challenges.

Gymnastics Expert Vikki Graves of Mt. Juliet, Tennessee provides insights in the article, which notes that recreational gymnastics is ideal for children who want to stay active without competitive pressure. The article describes how these programs foster creativity and independence. Children can choose when to challenge themselves and which skills to refine.

In contrast, the article outlines that competitive gymnastics is more structured and goal oriented. Children who demonstrate strong interest and aptitude may move into competitive gymnastics programs. These programs require greater time commitment, consistent training, and participation in organized competitions.

The HelloNation article explains that competitive gymnastics focuses on skill precision, strength, and mental focus. Athletes train for specific events such as floor routines, vault, bars, and balance beam. Practices are often held multiple times per week, with clear expectations for improvement and performance.

Competitive gymnastics also promotes discipline and resilience. The article notes that athletes learn to manage schedules, handle constructive feedback, and perform under pressure. These experiences can translate into stronger time management skills and determination outside the gym.

While competitive gymnastics demands higher commitment, the article emphasizes that both pathways contribute to child development. Recreational gymnastics builds foundational skills and confidence. Competitive gymnastics challenges children to pursue excellence and refine advanced techniques.

Families in Mt. Juliet, Tennessee can access a range of gymnastics programs designed to meet different goals. The article explains that many children begin in recreational gymnastics and later transition to competitive gymnastics if their interest deepens. This flexible approach allows families to evaluate a child's motivation and readiness over time.

Safety and proper instruction are highlighted as essential in both settings. The HelloNation article describes how reputable programs maintain equipment, use age appropriate training methods, and provide experienced coaching. This focus helps reduce injury risk while encouraging steady skill progression.

The article also addresses the social and emotional aspects of each path. Recreational gymnastics promotes friendship and teamwork in a relaxed environment. Competitive gymnastics strengthens perseverance and the ability to navigate both success and setbacks.

Ultimately, the article concludes that choosing between recreational gymnastics and competitive gymnastics depends on a child's personality, interests, and long term goals. Some children thrive in a fun, flexible setting focused on fitness and enjoyment. Others are inspired by structured challenges and measurable achievements.

By outlining the benefits of both options, the HelloNation article provides families with practical guidance. Understanding the differences helps parents make informed decisions that align with their child's development and well being.

Recreational vs Competitive Gymnastics: What's the Difference features insights from Vikki Graves, Gymnastics Expert of Mt. Juliet, Tennessee, in HelloNation.

About HelloNation

HelloNation is a premier media platform that connects readers with trusted professionals and businesses across various industries. Through its innovative "edvertising" approach that blends educational content and storytelling, HelloNation delivers expert-driven articles that inform, inspire, and empower. Covering topics from home improvement and health to business strategy and lifestyle, HelloNation highlights leaders making a meaningful impact in their communities.

SOURCE HelloNation

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New program further reduces costs, widens eligibility, and removes proof-of-income requirements to make Y membership and a range of programs even more affordable for low- and middle-income Chicagoland households

CHICAGO, Sept. 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago today announced the launch of Y for All to make Y membership and a range of programs even more accessible to thousands of households across the region facing rapidly rising costs. Y for All responds to the nation's growing affordability crisis: according to United Way's ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) research, more than 1 million Illinois households are struggling to cover basic needs like housing, food, and childcare, and increasingly, that strain extends to middle-income households as well as low-income ones.

"Affordability is one of the top issues facing households in the communities we serve. Families are having to make difficult budget choices," said Adam M. Alonso, President and CEO of the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago. "The Y has always been there to support our communities, and in line with our mission, we're stepping up again and responding to the affordability crisis through the launch of Y for All. This is all about removing barriers, meeting people where they are, and making sure everyone who walks through our doors feels welcome."

What's new

The Y has long offered financial assistance to members who need it. Y for All expands that commitment, further removing barriers so even more individuals and families can access the Y's health, wellness, family, and community resources, regardless of their financial circumstances. Y for All brings:

- Deeper savings: Significantly lower pricing on membership and a range of Y programs, based on household income and number of residents.

- Broader eligibility: To respond to the affordability crisis and in line with the United Way ALICE data, the Y has increased the upper limit of income eligibility.

- A simpler process: No proof of income is required. Eligible applicants are approved on the spot, so there's no wait time.

"United Way's ALICE data confirms that affordability is a top issue facing individuals and families across the state," said Sean Garrett, President and CEO of United Way of Metro Chicago. "Programs like Y for All highlight the importance of nonprofits working together to respond to the needs of their communities in concrete and meaningful ways. For anyone struggling with affordability challenges, I encourage you to call our 2-1-1 helpline or visit 211MetroChicago.org to be connected with food, housing, financial, utility and health and wellness assistance."

"The Y offers Chicago families a safe, welcoming place to be active, grow, and build a sense of belonging with their neighbors," said Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson. "This expansion is a life-changing investment in our communities, and I'm grateful that the Y continues to step up to make health and wellness accessible and affordable for every Chicagoan."

"For generations, the YMCA has made communities stronger by lifting up the less fortunate, connecting neighbors, and providing spaces for classes, exercise, family programs, child enrichment and safe interaction," said Illinois 81st District Representative Anne Stava. "Now, as times have gotten tougher for many of us in recent years, the Y is stepping up again to help ensure that more people can access memberships and all the benefits they bring. I'm proud to support these efforts."

Removing Barriers, Welcome Everyone in

Y for All builds on the momentum of Y's Get Summer program, which provided free memberships to more than 3,200 Chicago teens this summer, extending that same spirit of access to people of all ages, year-round, across all Y communities.

"Since 1858, the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago has worked to strengthen community by connecting all people to their purpose, potential and each other," said Alonso. "Y for All is the latest expression of that mission, ensuring that cost is not what stands between families and the health, wellness, and community connection the Y provides."

Individuals and families interested in applying for Y for All can visit their nearest YMCA location today or learn more at https://join.ymcachicago.org/. in addition, call the United Way 2-1-1 help line or visit 211MetroChicago.org to be connected with food, housing, financial, utility, and health and wellness resources.

About the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago

The YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago is your Y for Life. A nonprofit, the Y serves more than 280,000 people each year through a network of nearly 100 locations, including YMCA facilities, overnight camps, and learning sites. From sports and fitness to aquatics, camps, preschool, before- and after-school programs, the Y's mission is to strengthen community by connecting all people to their purpose, potential, and each other – at any age or stage of life. The YMCA of the USA proudly celebrates 175 years of community impact in 2026. For more information, visit www.ymcachicago.org.

SOURCE YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago

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Behavioral health provider earns top overall ranking and top small-company ranking based entirely on candidate feedback collected through Survale's CandE Benchmark Research Program.

- Family Care Center ranked #1 overall among 40 North America winners in the 2026 Global Candidate Experience (CandE) Awards.

- Family Care Center also ranked #1 among small-sized companies in this year's program.

- This is the second consecutive year Family Care Center has earned the top overall North America ranking and the third consecutive year it won a CandE award.

- The CandE Benchmark Research Program, administered by Survale, collected more than 77,000 candidate survey responses from more than 90 companies worldwide.

- Winners are determined solely by candidate feedback, including feedback from applicants who did not receive a job offer.

DENVER, Sept. 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Family Care Center has again ranked #1 in North America in the 2026 Global Candidate Experience (CandE) Awards, marking the second consecutive year the organization has earned the top spot and the third consecutive year it has received a CandE award. Family Care Center topped a field of 40 North America winners overall and also ranked #1 among small-sized companies in this year's program.

What is the CandE Award?

The CandE Benchmark Research Program, administered by Survale, gathered feedback from more than 90 unique companies worldwide and collected over 77,000 candidate survey responses spanning the full hiring journey, from the initial application through onboarding. Family Care Center was recognized for delivering candidate experience ratings at or above the program's global benchmark average.

What sets Family Care Center's candidate experience apart?

Winners are selected entirely on candidate feedback, including from applicants who were not offered a position. Award-winning organizations like Family Care Center set the standard for candidate experience by:

- Sharing information with candidates about company values, culture, career path opportunities, and employee testimonials

- Giving timely updates and feedback so candidates are not left waiting

- Providing structured interviews and meaningful feedback to finalists

- Making offers quickly and helping new hires feel welcome before their first day

"Being recognized for our candidate experience is a reflection of the care our team brings to every interaction," said Sarah Grey, chief people officer at Family Care Center. "We believe people deserve to be treated with respect, care, and transparency from their first conversation with us through every step of the hiring process. That approach is an important part of the culture we offer and the people we bring into it."

"Searching for a new opportunity can be an exciting and uncertain time, and we recognize the importance of how candidates are treated throughout that process," said Whitney Nagy, vice president of talent acquisition at Family Care Center. "We hope every interaction leaves people feeling good about the experience and the possibility of what comes next."

How to explore careers at Family Care Center

Family Care Center is hiring across behavioral health roles in Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Tennessee, and Texas. To learn more about career opportunities, visit fccwellbeing.com/careers.

Frequently Asked Questions

- What is the CandE Award?

The Candidate Experience (CandE) Award recognizes employers that deliver the strongest hiring experience, based entirely on feedback from job candidates, including those who were not hired.

- Who administers the CandE Benchmark Research Program?

Survale administers the annual global program.

- How many companies and candidates were part of the 2026 program?

More than 90 companies worldwide participated, and the program collected over 77,000 candidate survey responses.

- Has Family Care Center won this award before?

Yes. 2026 marks the second consecutive year Family Care Center has ranked #1 in North America in the CandE Awards. The organization has won three total CandE awards since 2024. This is the second time an organization has ever placed first in back-to-back years since 2020.

- What ranking did Family Care Center receive in 2026?

Family Care Center ranked #1 overall among 40 North America winners and #1 among small-sized companies.

- Where does Family Care Center operate?

Family Care Center operates outpatient behavioral health clinics across Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Tennessee, and Texas.

About Family Care Center

Family Care Center is a national leader in mental health services, dedicated to positively impacting the well-being of local communities. Their top-rated, multi-specialty clinicians deliver comprehensive, evidence-based care, providing positive outcomes for patients of all ages. In addition to therapy, psychiatry, and IOP, they are at the forefront of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), an innovative treatment for depression, and more. Founded in 2016, Family Care Center is one of the fastest-growing mental health care providers in the U.S., providing patient care, conducting research and offering continuing medical education in their field. With 50 locations across Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Tennessee and Texas, they continue to expand nationally in collaboration with Revelstoke Capital Partners.

SOURCE Family Care Center

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FRANKFURT, Germany and AUSTIN, Texas, Sept. 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Creality today announces the launch of the multi-color 3D printer SPARKX i8 on Indiegogo, at a super early-bird price of $289 (MSRP $399) starting from Sept. 21. Designed for ultimate user experience, the SPARKX i8 features a single-toolhead, four-channel extrusion architecture that delivers fastest color printing, zero external purge waste, zero prime towers and CMYK full-color printing, bringing multi-color 3D printing to the next generation.

At the core of the SPARKX i8 is Creality's QuarTeks™ Color Change System. The new architecture integrates four independent filament channels into one compact toolhead. Unlike systems that require multiple toolheads or external filament swapping, the i8 pre-loads filaments directly into the quad-channel toolhead to make color changes more efficient.

Near the nozzle tip, QuarTeks™ is equipped with an ultra-short shared filament path of less than 1 mm, or approximately 2 mm³. It is at least 30 times shorter than other shared paths widely used in the market. Powered by the ultra-short path, the i8 is able to switch color channels in less than 1 second, as it significantly reduces filament retraction, feeding and purging. Thus, switching between colors is made as quick and effortless as clicking a four-color ballpoint pen.

With no need to swap toolheads, nozzles, or motion platforms, the i8 greatly enhances the printing efficiency and cuts production time by simplifying the color change mechanism. According to Creality's lab tests of building a four-color tower with 3,000 color switches, the i8 completed the test in around 18 hours, 500% faster than printers with an external feed system.

Zero External Purge Waste

The QuarTeks™ is also built for reducing material waste. The less-than-1-mm shared filament path minimizes the amount of purge waste. Under optimal slicing settings, color transitions can be flushed directly into the model's infill or inner walls, bringing external purge waste down to 0 g*.

*0 g: No external purging during printing. Only a small amount of filament is flushed at the start.

Zero Prime Towers

SPARKX i8 eliminates prime towers by shifting color-change travel into the model's infill paths, without the need to print a separate tower for each color change. This significantly cuts color-transition time under prime-tower-free settings. Meanwhile, a dedicated clean wall isolates infill colors to keep model surfaces impeccable.

CMYK Full-Color Printing

SPARKX i8 also supports full-spectrum layered color printing, capable of creating richer ranges of colors by combining and mixing four base-color filaments across different layers. The layered color mixing* forms intermediate tones, gradients, and variations in brightness through different layer thicknesses and mixing sequences. With just four filament colors, the i8 can produce 16 or even 32 color combinations in a single print, unlocking unlimited possibilities of creations.

*Layered color mixing is not equivalent to precise color matching and cannot perfectly reproduce all specified colors.

AI-Assisted Monitoring

The 13 sensors built into the printhead with AI vision camera monitor four filament channels, switching mechanisms, and key printing statuses, detecting issues in real time such as an empty spool, filament runout, and air printing for faster troubleshooting. In addition, the standalone i8 features automatic filament refill, which allows up to four loaded spools of the same material at once and automatically switches to another when one runs out, enabling larger and more continuous prints.

Crowdfunding Availability & Best Price Ever

Now is the time to get the SPARKX i8 at its best available price by backing the crowdfunding campaign starting from Sept. 21.

Super early-bird price: $289, with very limited availability, increasing to $399 when super early-bird slots are sold out.

Free shipping and taxes: The 1,000 backers who order in the first 24 hours will receive a full refund of shipping and taxes, up to $50, after the campaign. The offer is limited to one i8 per backer.

Shipping time: Orders are scheduled to ship from factories in October, with delivery expected in November, varying by region and local logistics during the Q4 peak season.

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MILAN, Sept. 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Standardized preparation of blood-derived cellular samples is the foundation for reproducible liquid biopsy, digital cytology, and AI-assisted cell analysis. Tethis S.p.A., MACS S.r.l., and Everex S.r.l. today announced the completion of the transfer of the See.d® software and engineering business unit from MACS to Tethis, alongside a long-term manufacturing and supply agreement under which Everex will support production and future scale-up of the platform.

The See.d platform is the cornerstone of Tethis' liquid biopsy workflow. Developed with MACS, it was designed to standardize pre-analytical blood processing and generate both plasma for cfDNA analysis and cytology slides containing preserved nucleated cells for downstream characterization from a single blood sample.

The transaction transfers the See.d software and engineering business unit, intellectual property, and engineering know-how from MACS to Tethis, giving Tethis full control for the platform's development and commercialization. Everex, an Italian developer and manufacturer of in-vitro diagnostic instrumentation, will support future production and scale-up of the system as adoption continues to grow.

The technology has undergone extensive technical and clinical evaluation, including use in a clinical feasibility study at the European Institute of Oncology (IEO) in Milan. Today, See.d instruments support research programs at institutions including Sheba Medical Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, and ETH Zurich, where the platform contributes to advanced workflows for circulating tumor cell characterization.

"This acquisition is an important strategic step for Tethis," said Holger Neecke, Chief Executive Officer of Tethis. "By bringing the See.d technology and engineering expertise fully in-house, we gain greater control over a key component of our liquid biopsy workflow. Together with MACS and Everex, we have established a strong foundation to further develop and expand the platform."

"We are pleased that the See.d business unit is entering its next phase within the organization that has driven its scientific application over recent years," said Andrea Eugeni, Chief Executive Officer of MACS. "The platform is the result of a successful collaboration between our teams, and we are proud of what has been achieved together. Bringing the technology and expertise into Tethis ensures continuity of development and creates the ideal environment for future growth."

"We are excited to expand our collaboration with Tethis and support the future growth of See.d," said Lorenzo Balli, Chief Executive Officer of Everex. "With deep expertise in the development and manufacture of in-vitro diagnostic instruments, industrialization, and regulated production, Everex is well positioned to support reliable manufacturing and future scale-up as adoption of the technology grows."

About See.d®

See.d is an automated pre-analytical blood processing platform developed to standardize liquid biopsy workflows by generating both plasma and cellular preparations from a single blood sample. The system automates plasma separation, red blood cell lysis, and deposition of nucleated cells onto Tethis' proprietary SmartBioSurface® slides, supporting integrated analysis of circulating tumor cells, immune cells, cell-free DNA and other blood-derived biomarkers.

For further information, please contact

Tethis S.p.A.

Holger Neecke, CEO

Email: [email protected]

MACS S.r.l.

Andrea Eugeni, CEO

[email protected]

Everex S.r.l.

Lorenzo Balli, CEO

[email protected] 

About Tethis

Tethis S.p.A. is a life sciences and diagnostic company developing innovative workflows for high-quality sample preparation and cellular analysis, with a focus on integrating liquid biopsy into research and clinical practice. Tethis' SmartBioSurface® slides, based on a proprietary nanostructured titanium coating, enable efficient and gentle adhesion of suspension cells, supporting applications such as imaging, multimodal single-cell analysis, and multiplex assays. In combination with the See.d® instrument, which standardizes blood sample preparation to preserve sample quality and integrity and enables AI-driven, comprehensive analysis of suspension cells, the platform supports high-sensitivity identification and characterization of immune and rare cells, including circulating tumor cells. The company is headquartered in Milan, Italy. www.tethis-lab.com

About MACS

MACS S.r.l. (Medical Advanced Components & Systems) develops hardware and software technologies for medical diagnostic devices, with specialization in in-vitro diagnostics (IVD). The company develops advanced components and systems in the field of biomedical instrumentation, combining expertise in biotechnology, computer science, automation, embedded software, and Software as a Medical Device (SaMD). MACS is headquartered in Rome, Italy. www.macs-srl.it

About Everex

Everex S.r.l. is an engineering company dedicated to new technologies, designing and manufacturing intelligent analysis instruments for the in-vitro diagnostics (IVD) and biotechnology markets. Founded in 1989 and headquartered in Sesto Fiorentino (Florence), Italy, Everex supports partners from product design and development through industrialization and manufacturing, combining expertise in engineering, automation, software, and advanced diagnostic systems. www.everex.org

SmartBioSurface® slides and the See.d® instrument are for RESEARCH USE ONLY and not for use in diagnostic procedures.

SOURCE Tethis S.p.A

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National search underway for the next CEO to continue growth, innovation and healthcare transformation

ISELIN, N.J., Sept. 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The Hackensack Meridian Health Board of Trustees announced today that CEO Robert C. Garrett plans to retire effective June 30, 2027, capping an extraordinary career that resulted in the creation of the state's largest health network, the state's first new private medical school in decades and national rankings in quality, innovation and workforce culture.

"Under Bob Garrett's leadership, he and his exceptional team created the state's largest health network – which is nationally recognized for high-quality care, growth and innovation," said Keith Banks, chair of the HMH Board. "Bob has been the driving force behind HMH's unprecedented growth and transformation, its superior quality, innovation and commitment to building an exceptional workforce. At the heart of Bob's legacy is his unwavering belief that we must deliver the most innovative and compassionate care to all patients. HMH is solidly positioned for continued growth, and we are profoundly grateful to Bob and extend our warmest wishes to him for this well-deserved next chapter."

Since its creation 10 years ago, the HMH network has grown to 18 hospitals, 41,000 team members and more than 500 patient care locations throughout New Jersey, nearly triple the amount when the network first launched. The network also opened the Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine, a groundbreaking discovery research center and has become an international leader in clinical breakthroughs, lifesaving treatment and nationally ranked care.

HMH has received many national recognitions including: Hackensack University Medical Center is the #1 hospital in New Jersey, #4 in the New York-New Jersey Metro Area, and is the only hospital in New Jersey ranked #1 for both adult and children's care for a second year in a row, according to U.S. News & World Report. It also has the No. 1-ranked cancer center in New Jersey and eight network hospitals have earned elite four- and five-star ratings from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, placing them among the nation's highest performers. The network is also ranked No. 39 on the Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For list this year among all industries. HMH is also nearing completion of a $1 billion Be the Difference fundraising campaign, which includes a $125 million gift, the largest gift of its kind in New Jersey healthcare, and among the largest donations to any hospital or health system in the United States.

"I have had the honor of working for this incredible organization for virtually all of my career,'' Mr. Garrett said. "I am filled with a profound sense of accomplishment for the positive impact we have made. The dedication and compassion of our teams have been the cornerstone of our success, and I am confident that this commitment to excellence will continue to thrive. Leading Hackensack Meridian has been the privilege of a lifetime."

"Throughout his distinguished career, Bob Garrett has been a transformative leader for Hackensack Meridian Health and a proven partner to New Jersey in our shared mission to ensure the health and well-being of everyone in our state," New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill said. "His unwavering commitment to providing compassionate, high-quality care has benefitted countless patients and families. We are immensely grateful for his decades of service and we wish him a long, healthy and happy retirement."

Perhaps most importantly, HMH has expansive and successful strategies to ensure that all communities that the network serves have access to high-quality, affordable and convenient healthcare, spearheaded by Mr. Garrett. HMH is currently fighting health inequities in New Jersey through its extensive social determinants of health program, which helps identify at-risk people and provide necessary services through community referrals.

"Bob Garrett leaves an incredible legacy of improving the quality and reach of healthcare for communities throughout New Jersey,'' said Marc L. Boom, M.D., Board Chair of the American Hospital Association president and CEO of Houston Methodist. "He has been steadfast and proven in his ability to drive true transformation and deliver for patients today and for generations to come. We are grateful to have had him as a national leader and wish him the very best in his next chapter."

A global healthcare leader, Mr. Garrett has served as Chair of the World Economic Forum's Health and Healthcare Governor's Community and has been recognized nationally for his achievements including Modern Healthcare's 100 Most Influential People in Healthcare list for the last four years. He also received the prestigious 2025 Ellis Island Award, which is recognized by both houses of Congress and will be inducted into the New Jersey Hall of Fame this month.

To ensure a seamless transition, Mr. Garrett will continue as CEO until the Board of Trustees completes a national search for his successor. The Board will name a new CEO by the end of the first quarter of 2027 and Mr. Garrett will transition to the role of CEO Emeritus on July 1, 2027, for up to one year to assist the Board and the new CEO with the transition.

ABOUT HACKENSACK MERIDIAN HEALTH

Hackensack Meridian Health brings together leading‑edge care, research, and medical education to deliver the best outcomes and care shaped around the unique needs of every patient we serve. By connecting prevention, specialty care, and life-saving discoveries, we improve every aspect of healthcare – from routine visits to the most advanced treatments, close to home and across the globe.

We ensure people can count on exceptional care today and benefit from the cures of tomorrow. Our not-for-profit network of 18 hospitals, 500+ care locations, and over 40,000 team members extend the horizon of health for all. And because medicine is never finished, we Keep Getting Better for every patient, family, and community who counts on us. Learn more at HackensackMeridianHealth.org, and to donate, visit GiveHMH.org.

SOURCE Hackensack Meridian Health

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Post-Storm Roof Inspections Help Homeowners Catch Hidden Damage Before It Leads to Costly Repairs or Insurance Complications.

BOAZ, Ala., Sept. 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- After a severe storm passes through, how do homeowners in Boaz, Alabama, know whether their roof came through unscathed or suffered damage that could worsen over time? A HelloNation article explains what a professional storm damage roof inspection covers and why getting one promptly can make a significant difference for property owners in the region.

The article explains that wind damage is one of the easier categories to spot if you know what to look for. Missing shingles are the most obvious sign, but lifted edges and popped nails are just as important. When wind breaks the seal beneath a shingle, that area becomes vulnerable even if the shingle appears to settle back into place. It may look undamaged from the street while still allowing water to work its way under the surface.

Hail damage is more subtle and is often misread by homeowners who are not trained to identify it. The article notes that hailstones leave bruising on asphalt shingles, small impressions where the granule coating has been knocked loose. Roofing Experts call this granule loss, and it shortens the functional life of a shingle by reducing its ability to shed water and deflect UV rays. The damage may not cause an immediate leak, but it accelerates deterioration and is typically considered storm damage under most homeowner's insurance policies.

A thorough storm damage roof inspection goes beyond checking shingle surfaces. The article explains that flashing along ridges, valleys, and penetration points should be examined for displacement or cracking after high-wind events. Gutters and downspouts also warrant attention. If gutters are filled with granules following a hail event, that is a meaningful sign that shingles across a wide area have taken significant impact.

Soffit and fascia damage is another detail a complete inspection will catch. The article describes these boards along the roof's edges as prone to cracking, denting, or separating during a storm. Damaged soffit can allow moisture and pests into the attic space. The article also notes that attic ventilation openings and skylights should be checked, as they are common entry points for wind-driven rain.

In Boaz, Alabama, spring and early summer bring a combination of conditions that test roofs hard. The article notes that severe thunderstorms in the region can produce quarter-sized hail and sustained wind gusts well above 50 miles per hour in a single event. Homeowners in the area often face multiple significant weather events within the same season, meaning cumulative wear adds up from one storm to the next.

Documentation is critical during a storm damage roof inspection when there is any chance of filing an insurance claim. The HelloNation article explains that a professional inspector should photograph every area of concern, note the dimensions and location of damage, and produce a written report that distinguishes storm-related damage from pre-existing wear. Insurers look for evidence that damage is sudden and weather-related rather than the result of deferred maintenance, and clear records from before and after an event strengthen a claim considerably.

Timing also matters. Many insurance policies include a window for reporting storm damage, and waiting too long can complicate or eliminate coverage. Roofing Experts recommend reviewing policy timelines before storm season begins rather than after a weather event has already occurred. In most cases, a post-storm inspection confirms the roof came through in good shape, which is reassuring and valuable information on its own.

Should You Get a Roof Inspection After a Severe Storm in Boaz, AL? features insights from Jeremiah Lightsey, Roofing Expert of Boaz, Alabama, 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 digital publications and innovative "edvertising" approach, HelloNation delivers expert-driven, good-news content that informs, inspires, and spotlights the leaders making a meaningful impact in their communities.

SOURCE HelloNation

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