Spotlight Urgent Patient Needs and Treatment Gaps

KANSAS CITY, Mo., Oct. 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The Vasculitis Foundation (VF) is proud to announce the upcoming Vasculitis Community Forum: Patient Perspectives, a national virtual listening session taking place on Friday, November 20, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM ET. This landmark event will bring together patients, caregivers, clinicians, and key stakeholders from across the country to share lived experiences and highlight the urgent unmet needs in vasculitis careâespecially the need for safer, more effective alternatives to steroids.

A Critical Moment for the Vasculitis Community

Vasculitis encompasses nearly 20 rare diseases characterized by inflammation of the blood vessels, leading to significant health challenges and, in some cases, life-threatening complications. While there are approximately ten FDA-approved therapies, corticosteroids remain a mainstay of treatment for most patientsâdespite their substantial burden of side effects and long-term toxicity.

The Vasculitis Community Forum is being convened at a pivotal time, as the community awaits key regulatory decisions that could impact access to alternative therapies. A key objective is to ensure that all stakeholders, including regulators at the FDA, hear directly from patients about the urgent need for treatment options and the real-world impact of current therapies.

Forum Agenda and Highlights

The two-hour virtual event will feature:

- A brief overview of vasculitis and the current treatment landscape by clinical experts

- Two moderated patient and caregiver panels sharing real-world experiences and the daily impact of the disease

- A focused discussion on unmet needs and the critical importance of developing and maintaining access to alternative therapies

- Opportunities for participants to contribute via chat and real-time polling

Members of Congress, the FDA, and other regulatory officials are invited to attend in a listen-only capacity, ensuring that patient voices are heard at the highest levels. The Forum will be facilitated by Wendy K.D. Selig, Founder & CEO of WSCollaborative, who brings over 30 years of experience in health sector strategy and patient engagement.

Driving Change Through Patient Perspectives

"The timing is right for the Vasculitis Foundation to shine a spotlight on the unmet needs and treatment-related priorities of patients and their care teams," said Joyce Kullman, President of the Vasculitis Foundation. "By convening this Forum, we aim to provide a more complete picture of what it's like to live with and manage vasculitis todayâand to drive meaningful change in how therapies are developed, evaluated, and accessed."

Following the event, the VF will publish a comprehensive whitepaper summarizing key insights and recommendations, which will be widely disseminated to clinicians, therapy developers, media outlets, and regulators.

Join Us

Registration for the Vasculitis Community Forum is now open. Patients, caregivers, clinicians, and all interested stakeholders are encouraged to participate in this important conversation. For more information and to register, please click here.

About the Vasculitis Foundation

The Vasculitis Foundation is the leading organization in the United States dedicated to improving the lives of people living with vasculitis through research, education, support, and advocacy.

Media Contact:

Joyce A. Kullman

President

Vasculitis Foundation

[email protected]

SOURCE VASCULITIS FOUNDATION

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From Elton, Louisiana to Academy Sports + Outdoors: HUNT Refined Repellent Launches in Q1 2027

A DEET free, scent free repellent line built through roughly 650 independent retailers earns its first major chain placement

ELTON, La., Oct. 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Hunt Tech, LLC today announced that its HUNT Refined Repellent line will arrive in Academy Sports + Outdoors stores in Q1 2027. All three flagship products are part of the launch: HUNT Refined Repellent Spray, HUNT Refined Repellent Lotion, and HUNT Refined Repellent Wipes.

HUNT was built in Elton, Louisiana, in Jefferson Davis Parish, and grew out of the McNeese State University SEED Center business incubator. The company manufactures its products in Elton and built its retail business one independent store at a time. Today the line is carried by roughly 650 independent retail partners, and Academy is the company's first major retail chain.

HUNT products are made with picaridin and are DEET free and scent free. The line started with a simple idea, a DEET free bug spray and lotion that are also scent free, made for hunters and anglers first and now used by families and anyone who spends time outdoors.

"This company started in a small town in Southwest Louisiana, and we earned every shelf we are on," said Gabriel Fontenot, CEO of Hunt Tech, LLC. "Our independent retailers believed in this product when we were small, and they are the reason we are here. Academy has been first class to work with from the first conversation. Their team gave a growing Louisiana company a fair shot, and we intend to earn it."

The launch adds a Louisiana made, DEET free and scent free option to Academy's camping and outdoor assortment, giving Academy customers another choice for time in the woods, on the water, and around home.

Academy Sports + Outdoors is a sporting goods and outdoor retailer headquartered in Katy, Texas.

About Hunt Tech, LLC: Hunt Tech, LLC, based in Elton, Louisiana, makes the HUNT Refined Repellent line of DEET free, scent free insect repellents, carried by roughly 650 independent retail partners and at huntrepellent.com.

Media contact: Gabriel Fontenot, CEO, Hunt Tech, LLC, [email protected], (337) 549-6555.

SOURCE Hunt Tech, LLC

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New 48-hour Stories feature enables hospitality professionals and businesses to share updates, showcase achievements, and expand their visibility beyond their existing followers.

LOS ANGELES, Oct. 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Hozpitality.com, a global hospitality networking, recruitment, and industry engagement platform connecting more than 1.3 million registered members, has announced the launch of Hozpitality Stories, a new social networking feature designed to help hospitality professionals and businesses share their experiences, celebrate achievements, and connect with a wider industry audience.

Inspired by the popularity of Stories on social media platforms, Hozpitality Stories introduces a hospitality-focused approach to professional content sharing, offering expanded discovery opportunities and a longer visibility window.

Unlike conventional Stories that typically disappear after 24 hours, Hozpitality Stories remain active for 48 hours, allowing members more time to discover and engage with professional updates.

Breaking Beyond Traditional Follower Networks

One of the distinguishing features of Hozpitality Stories is its approach to content visibility.

While Stories on many social networking platforms primarily reach existing followers, Hozpitality Stories are designed to encourage discovery across the hospitality community.

Members can share Stories that are visible to their followers worldwide, regardless of geographic location. Their Stories can also be discovered by other Hozpitality members within their country, even when those members are not following them.

Additionally, when members engage with a Story, the platform's discovery mechanism can introduce that content to their own international follower networks, creating opportunities for broader visibility.

This interconnected approach allows professional content to travel beyond immediate connections and potentially reach hospitality audiences across multiple countries.

A Platform Where Every Hospitality Professional Has a Story

From hotel general managers and executive chefs to front-office associates, housekeeping professionals, hospitality students, recruiters, and suppliers, the new feature is designed to give everyone an opportunity to share their professional journey.

Members can use Hozpitality Stories to:

- Celebrate professional achievements: Share promotions, awards, milestones, and career accomplishments.

- Recognize hospitality teams: Highlight employee achievements, team celebrations, and exceptional service moments.

- Showcase hotels and restaurants: Share property updates, culinary creations, new openings, and guest experiences.

- Promote business activities: Highlight company announcements, events, products, services, and industry initiatives.

- Build professional visibility: Share everyday experiences and connect with hospitality professionals beyond existing networks.

The feature is available to Hozpitality members, supporting the company's objective of making professional networking and industry engagement more accessible.

Bringing the Global Hospitality Community Closer Together

Speaking about the launch, Raj Bhatt, Founder and CEO of Hozpitality Group, said:

"Hospitality is an industry built around people, experiences, and relationships. Every day, millions of hospitality professionals create memorable experiences, achieve milestones, and contribute to the success of their organizations. Yet many of these stories remain within their immediate circles.

"With Hozpitality Stories, we want to give hospitality professionals an opportunity to share those moments with a much wider industry audience.

"Whether you are a hotel general manager celebrating your team's success, a chef showcasing a new creation, a student beginning your hospitality journey, or a supplier introducing an innovative product, your story deserves to be seen.

"Our vision is to create a global hospitality community where professional connections are not limited by geography or existing follower networks. A simple Story could lead to a new professional connection, a business opportunity, or an inspiring conversation."

Supporting a More Connected Hospitality Ecosystem

The introduction of Stories represents another step in Hozpitality's ongoing development as a dedicated digital ecosystem for the hospitality industry.

Originally established in 2008 as a hospitality recruitment platform, Hozpitality has evolved into an international professional networking and business engagement community.

Today, the platform brings together more than 1.3 million registered members, offering hospitality recruitment, professional networking, industry news, supplier connections, events, recognition programs, and business opportunities.

With an established presence in the United States, the Middle East, and India, Hozpitality continues to develop digital solutions that connect hospitality professionals, employers, and businesses across international markets.

The new Stories feature complements the platform's existing professional timeline, articles, job listings, events, and networking capabilities by introducing a more immediate and visual way for members to communicate.

Encouraging Everyday Professional Engagement

Hozpitality believes that professional networking should extend beyond job searches, formal introductions, and business transactions.

The hospitality industry is driven by everyday interactions, teamwork, creativity, and shared experiences.

Through Stories, members can highlight moments that may not necessarily require a full article or professional announcement but are still valuable to their industry peers.

For hospitality businesses, the feature also provides an additional channel to showcase their teams, company culture, achievements, and activities to a relevant professional audience.

By encouraging regular participation and content discovery, Hozpitality aims to strengthen engagement across its international membership community.

Your Story. Your Industry. Your World.

The launch is accompanied by the campaign "Your Story. Your Industry. Your World.", encouraging hospitality professionals everywhere to share their experiences and become more visible within the industry.

Hozpitality Stories are now available on the platform.

Members can log in to their accounts and begin sharing Stories immediately.

To explore Hozpitality Stories, visit www.hozpitality.com.

About Hozpitality Group

Founded in 2008, Hozpitality Group is a global hospitality-focused digital networking, recruitment, media, and industry engagement organization.

Through its flagship platform, Hozpitality.com, the company connects more than 1.3 million registered hospitality professionals and businesses worldwide, providing opportunities for recruitment, networking, professional development, industry recognition, supplier connections, and business growth.

Hozpitality Group also organizes hospitality industry awards, leadership forums, professional powerlists, and networking initiatives that recognize excellence and strengthen connections across the global hospitality sector.

With operations spanning the United States, the Middle East, and India, Hozpitality continues to expand its international hospitality community through technology, partnerships, and industry engagement.

Website: www.hozpitality.com

SOURCE Hozpitality Group

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NEW YORK, Oct. 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- From necklaces worn through Grand Slam victories to earrings and bracelets associated with defining moments, jewelry has become a recognizable part of some of tennis's greatest champions' on-court identities. But which pieces have become most closely associated with winning?

Inspired by the story behind the iconic tennis bracelet, a new study by A Diamond Is Forever analyzed 10 tennis players and their signature jewelry pieces to reveal the luckiest jewelry in tennis.

Tennis's Top 3 Luckiest Jewelry Pieces

1. Serena Williams â Heart Necklaces

The A Diamond Is Forever study revealed that Serena Williams's signature heart necklaces rank as the luckiest jewelry in tennis, with an overall score of 90 out of 100.

Key findings:

Williams scored 9/10 for Major Championship Titles, with 23 Grand Slam singles titles.

Her heart necklaces scored 9/10 for the Championship Jewelry Association, appearing during 11 Grand Slam championship wins analyzed in the study.

She scored 9/10 for Championship Jewelry Search Surge, following a 100% Google Trends search surge.

Williams's heart necklaces generated approximately 88,700 social and media mentions, earning a Cultural Reach score of 9/10.

2. Novak Djokovic â Cross Necklace

Novak Djokovic ranks second, with his signature cross necklace earning an overall score of 75 out of 100.

Key findings:

Djokovic earned 10/10 for Major Championship Titles, with 24 Grand Slam singles championships â the highest number among the players analyzed.

His cross necklace scored 9/10 for the Championship Jewelry Association, appearing during 11 Grand Slam wins analyzed.

The piece recorded a 40% Google Trends search surge, earning a Championship Jewelry Search Surge score of 1/10 relative to the other players in the dataset.

Djokovic and his cross necklace generated approximately 123,700 social and media mentions, earning the highest Cultural Reach score in the study at 10/10.

3. Aryna Sabalenka â Material Good Jewelry

Aryna Sabalenka ranks third, with her custom Material Good jewelry earning an overall score of 73 out of 100.

Key findings:

Sabalenka scored 6/10 for Major Championship Titles, with four Grand Slam singles championships.

Her Material Good jewelry scored 7/10 for Championship Jewelry Association, with one confirmed Grand Slam-winning association.

The jewelry recorded a 100% Google Trends search surge, earning a Championship Jewelry Search Surge score of 9/10.

Her signature jewelry generated approximately 2,200 social and media mentions, earning a Cultural Reach score of 7/10.

To explore the full ranking of the luckiest jewelry in tennis, visit A Diamond is Forever.

Boilerplate

A Diamond Is Forever celebrates the enduring power of love and commitment, offering inspiration, guidance, and expert advice on engagement, weddings, style, gifting, and diamonds. Powered by insights from America's top bridal, jewelry, and style experts, A Diamond Is Forever helps individuals create meaningful, lasting moments and unforgettable experiences that mark the beginning of forever.

SOURCE A Diamond is Forever

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WINSTON-SALEM, N.C., Oct. 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Modoral Brands Inc., an operating company of Reynolds American Inc. (Reynolds American), received U.S. FDA Marketing Granted Orders for a select number of VELO nicotine pouches.

"Today's Marketing Granted Orders demonstrate the FDA's leadership in accelerating progress toward a Smokeless America," said David Waterfield, President and CEO at Reynolds American Inc. "With adult smoking rates below 10 percent for the first time in recorded history, scienceâbased decisions like this highlight the role that FDAâauthorized alternatives can play in driving further declines in cigarette smoking."

Reynolds American [and its] companies will continue to work with FDA as it evaluates our submissions for additional products. We are confident in the science that supports our submissions and look forward to additional authorizations.

FDA's Marketing Granted Orders included the following flavors and strengths:

- VELO Mini Pouch 400 mg Crema 4 mg

- VELO Mini Pouch 400 mg Lime 4 mg

- VELO Mini Pouch 400 mg Orange Crema 4 mg

- VELO Mini Pouch 400 mg Passion Fruit 4 mg

- VELO Mini Pouch 2 400 mg Crema 4 mg

- VELO Mini Pouch 2 400 mg Lime 4 mg

- VELO Mini Pouch 2 400 mg Orange Crema 4 mg

- VELO Mini Pouch 2 400 mg Cinnamon 4 mg

Reynolds American's multicategory portfolio is aligned with where adult smokers are heading â away from combustible cigarettes. For those who continue to use nicotine, potentially less risky alternatives like responsibly marketed vapor and nicotine pouches expand options for the nearly 30 million Americans who still smoke and are looking to transition away from cigarettes.

At the same time, continued decline in smoking rates will depend on providing adult smokers with more innovative alternatives, as well as addressing a still-thriving illicit marketplace of vapor products, which evade regulation and are intentionally designed and marketed to youth.

Recently, Reynolds American announced a forward-looking planned commitment to invest more than $3.2 billion in support of the organization's continued evolution toward a predominantly smokeless future, building on momentum in high growth categories, like nicotine pouches â these authorizations support the organization's investment to grow manufacturing in America. The investment began in 2024 and is expected to support more than 2,000 direct and indirect jobs across Reynolds American's operations and U.S. supply network, including roles tied to recent manufacturing expansion and innovation initiatives.

About Reynolds American Inc. Reynolds American Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of the global BAT Group and the U.S. parent company of R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company, Santa Fe Natural Tobacco Company, Inc., American Snuff Company, LLC, R.J. Reynolds Vapor Company, and Modoral Brands Inc. References to "Reynolds American," "Reynolds American companies", "the group," "the company," "the organization," "we," "us," and "our" are simply for convenience and generally refer to Reynolds American Inc. and/or its subsidiaries, collectively. To learn more about Reynolds American Inc. and its operating companies, please visit www.reynoldsamerican.com.

About VELO/Modoral Brands Inc. VELO is the industry-leading global modern oral nicotine brand. VELO-branded products in the United States are designed to provide age 21+ nicotine consumers with innovative alternatives to traditional combustible and smokeless tobacco. VELO products are marketed in the United States by Modoral Brands Inc. (Modoral), an operating company of Reynolds American Inc., a member of the British American Tobacco Group. Modoral remains committed to responsibly marketing VELO products. To learn more about Modoral, visit ModoralBrands.com.

SOURCE Reynolds American Inc.

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Portion of proceeds supports NKF's mission; campaign runs through November 13

NEW YORK, Oct. 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The National Kidney Foundation (NKF) today announced that it is the charitable beneficiary of Humble Bundle's "Phunkier Physics" video game bundle, with a portion of proceeds supporting NKF's mission to improve the lives of people affected by kidney disease.

The campaign runs through November 13 and supports NKF's work in kidney disease awareness, early detection, patient support, research, and transplantation.

"We are grateful to Humble Bundle and its community for supporting our mission," said Marc Hurlbert, Ph.D., Chief Executive Officer of NKF. "Partnerships like this introduce more people to the urgent needs of patients and families affected by kidney disease and the role they can play in supporting progress."

Humble Bundle is an online platform offering curated collections of video games, ebooks, and software, with a portion of proceeds supporting charitable organizations. Its "Phunkier Physics" bundle features 10 physics-based games, including Besiege Master Engineer Edition, Space Engineers, and Wobbledogs, with gameplay involving engineering, construction, exploration, and virtual pet simulation.

Far too many discover the disease only when their kidneys are already failing, while others face the demands of dialysis or wait for a lifesaving transplant. NKF is working to change that story by advancing early detection, supporting patients and families, accelerating research, and pursuing its goal of doubling the number of kidney transplants performed each year.

Campaign information, including details about the charitable allocation, is available at humblebundle.com/games/phunkier-physics.

About Kidney Disease

In the United States, chronic kidney disease (CKD) remains an under-recognized public health burden that impacts 1 in 7 adults, and 90 percent of those affected are unaware of their condition. Approximately 1 in 3 U.S. adults are at risk for CKD, but less than 20% are assessed with guideline-recommended testing, eGFR and uACR. Risk factors for kidney disease include diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, and family history. People of Black or African American, Hispanic or Latino, American Indian or Alaska Native, Asian American, or Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander descent are at increased risk for developing the disease. Black or African American people are about four times as likely as White people to develop kidney failure. Hispanic and Native American people experience kidney failure at approximately double the rate of White people.

About the National Kidney Foundation 

The National Kidney Foundation is revolutionizing the fight to save lives by eliminating preventable kidney disease, accelerating innovation for the dignity of the patient experience, and dismantling structural inequities in kidney care, dialysis, and transplantation. For more information about NKF, visit www.kidney.org.

SOURCE National Kidney Foundation

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From Fairways to Futures: Swings for STEM Raises $100,000

Third Annual Event Brings Together Chemical Industry Leaders, Policymakers, Academic Partners and Students to Strengthen Tomorrow's Workforce

WASHINGTON, Oct. 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The Alliance for Chemical Distribution (ACD) and American Chemistry Council (ACC) joined forces Monday for the third annual Swings for STEM golf tournament, raising $100,000 to support the next generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators. The event brought together stakeholders from industry, government and academia for a day of friendly competition and fundraising benefiting the Future of STEM Scholars Initiative (FOSSI) and Creating Exciting Futures in STEM (CEFinSTEM) , two organizations that seek to inspire, support, and expand access to STEM education.

"The future of our industry depends on the next generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators, and we have a responsibility to help them succeed," said Eric R. Byer, President and CEO of ACD. "Swings for STEM is about more than raising money. It's about opening doors, building relationships, and giving talented young people the opportunity to see what's possible in the chemical distribution industry. We're incredibly grateful to our sponsors, donors, and participants for helping us invest in the next generation of STEM leaders."

"Chemistry is at the heart of American innovation, and maintaining that leadership starts with investing in the next generation," added Chris Jahn, President and CEO of the American Chemistry Council. "When we launched FOSSI, our goal was to create new pathways into STEM careers and strengthen the chemical industry's talent pipeline. Today, more than 900 scholarships have been funded through that effort. Swings for STEM reflects that same vision, bringing industry and policy partners together to raise nearly $300,000 over the past three years."

The event also featured a dedicated student program for FOSSI scholars, combining a golf clinic, leadership development workshop, and networking opportunities.

FOSSI Scholar Brandon Simmons was one of nearly 20 scholarship recipients who attended the event, sharing, "My experience at Swings for STEM was truly rewarding. I enjoyed learning new techniques and connecting with fellow FOSSI scholars from different schools. The event was a great opportunity to build relationships, share experiences, and grow alongside other scholars. I'm grateful to FOSSI for creating opportunities like this that foster both personal growth and a strong sense of community."

To learn more about FOSSI visit www.FutureofSTEMScholars.org. Scholarship applications are open until January 8th, 2027. Eligible students can apply here.

To learn more about CEFinSTEM, visit www.cefinstem.org.

ACC and ACD extend their gratitude to the sponsors who made this event possible:

Alliance for Chemical Distribution

The Alliance for Chemical Distribution (ACD) partners with our more than 400 chemical distribution industry members to provide the education, connection, standards, and advocacy they need to responsibly move the essential products our world depends on. As leaders in the $27B+ chemical distribution industry, ACD member companies commit to the highest standardsin quality, safety, sustainability, and performance through ACD Responsible Distributionâ¢. For more information, visit www.acd-chem.com.

American Chemistry Council

The American Chemistry Council's mission is to advocate for the people, policy, and products of chemistry that make the United States the global leader in innovation and manufacturing. To achieve this, we: Champion science-based policy solutions across all levels of government; Drive continuous performance improvement to protect employees and communities through Responsible Care®; Foster the development of sustainability practices throughout ACC member companies; and communicate authentically with communities about challenges and solutions for a safer, healthier and more sustainable way of life. Our vision is a world made better by chemistry, where people live happier, healthier, and more prosperous lives, safely and sustainablyâfor generations to come.

SOURCE American Chemistry Council

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SAN FRANCISCO, Oct. 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Aries has launched prediction markets in Aries Mobile, offering eligible customers access to event contracts on the 2026 U.S. midterm elections, economic data and financial markets through Aries Futures LLC. The contracts are listed and cleared by ForecastEx LLC, an affiliate of Interactive Brokers.

Each event contract asks a yes-or-no question about a real-world outcome. Its price is set by buyers and sellers on the exchange, so a customer following the November 3rd midterm vote can watch it move throughout the day rather than wait on a poll taken a week ago. Prices are not predictions and may not reflect the actual likelihood of an outcome.

ForecastEx is a CFTC-designated contract market and clearing organization launched by Interactive Brokers, the firm founded by Thomas Peterffy. The exchange is open to other brokers, and Aries reaches it through Aries Futures LLC, a CFTC-registered introducing broker and NFA member, with accounts carried by Advantage Futures LLC.

"We wanted our first prediction markets on regulated rails, with real price discovery behind every contract," said Reda Falih, founder and CEO of Aries. "Polls tell you what people say. Markets show you what people will put money behind."

Eligible U.S. customers can apply for a separate event contract account through Aries Futures LLC to trade in Aries Mobile. Event contract accounts are separate from securities accounts offered through RAM Financial LLC. Aries does not offer sports, awards or other entertainment contracts.

Aries plans to integrate prediction markets into Aries Infinite, its open trading canvas, allowing eligible customers to view event contract prices alongside charts, news and positions.

Aries also plans to extend event contract access to finance.dev and the Aries MCP server, allowing eligible customers to access supported market data and submit authorized orders through connected tools.

One platform, three products

Prediction markets join a product line that Aries built on a single API.

Aries Mobile brings US stocks, ETFs, options and now event contracts to iOS and Android, with real-time market data, Bloomberg TV and TradingView charts in the same app.

Aries Infinite is an open trading canvas where traders arrange modular widgets for charts, order entry, market depth and news, trade through supported tools and share layouts with others. AI-assisted tools allow customers to describe custom widgets in a prompt.

Finance.dev provides API access to supported market data and trading functions, with SDKs in Python, JavaScript and Go and an Aries MCP server. Supported integrations allow customers to connect third-party AI tools, such as Claude or ChatGPT, to access information and submit orders subject to account permissions and customer authorization.

About Aries

Aries is a trading platform for people who want to shape their own tools. Aries Mobile covers US stocks, ETFs, options and prediction markets. Aries Infinite is an open canvas where traders assemble their own desk and build new widgets with AI. Finance.dev opens the same API that runs both, with SDKs in Python, JavaScript and Go and an MCP server for AI agents. The company is building toward a modular, open-source model, where traders and developers extend one another's components instead of waiting on a single roadmap. Aries Financial, Inc. is the holding company of RAM Financial LLC and Aries Futures LLC. Learn more at aries.com or finance.dev.

Disclosures

Event contracts are offered through Aries Futures LLC, a CFTC-registered introducing broker and NFA member (NFA ID 0573286), with customer accounts carried by Advantage Futures LLC, a CFTC-registered futures commission merchant. Contracts are listed and cleared by ForecastEx LLC. Event contracts involve substantial risk and are not suitable for everyone. Customers can lose the entire amount paid plus applicable fees. Limited liquidity may prevent an offset before settlement. Contract terms, designated resolution sources and deadlines govern settlement. Event contracts are not protected by SIPC or insured by the FDIC. Eligibility and trading restrictions apply. Registration and membership do not constitute regulatory endorsement or guarantee against loss. Review the event contract risk disclosures, fees and applicable contract terms at aries.com/legal/event-contract-disclosures before trading.

Securities are offered through RAM Financial LLC (DBA "Aries"), an SEC-registered broker-dealer and member of FINRA and SIPC, with securities accounts carried by Apex Clearing Corporation, member FINRA and SIPC. All investing involves risk, including loss of principal. Options are not suitable for all investors and require account approval. Read Characteristics and Risks of Standardized Options before trading; contact Aries support to request a copy. Aries offers self-directed trading and does not provide investment advice. Check the background of RAM Financial LLC and Apex Clearing Corporation on FINRA's BrokerCheck.

Aries Financial, Inc. is the holding company of RAM Financial LLC and Aries Futures LLC. Securities and event contracts are offered through separate legal entities and held in separate accounts. Interactive Brokers and ForecastEx are not affiliated with Aries and do not endorse Aries.

AI models and AI-built widgets can produce inaccurate information, faulty code or unintended trading instructions. Customers should review outputs, test generated widgets and verify order details before authorizing trades. Connected tools operate subject to available functionality, account permissions and applicable restrictions. Customer authorization does not eliminate the risk of errors or losses. Third-party AI providers are not affiliated with Aries and do not endorse Aries.

Media contact

Amin Sven Haake,

PR Lead, Aries

[email protected]

SOURCE Aries Financial Inc.

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The article explains how homeowners can document hail damage, review roof coverage, and understand insurance deductibles before filing a claim.

FORT WORTH, Texas, Oct. 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ --

KEY HIGHLIGHTS

- Homeowners should check for visible hail damage from a safe location and document any signs of roof or property damage.

- Reviewing homeowners' insurance can help homeowners understand roof coverage, deductibles, and how claim payments work.

- Replacement cost coverage and actual cash value coverage can affect how much an insurance company pays for covered roof damage.

What should homeowners know before filing a hail damage insurance claim? A HelloNation article answers this question with insights from Steven Barber, Insurance Expert of Fort Worth, Texas. The feature explains how homeowners can identify storm damage, review their insurance policies, and prepare for the claims process.

How Should Homeowners Check for Hail Damage?

The article explains that hail damage is not always easy to see from the ground. Strong hail can crack shingles, loosen roofing materials, and leave dents in gutters. Some damage may also lead to leaks weeks or months after a storm.

Homeowners should begin by checking for visible damage from a safe location. Missing shingles, broken siding, and roofing materials on the lawn may point to storm damage. The article advises homeowners to avoid climbing onto their roofs and instead contact a qualified roofer for an inspection.

Steven Barber's insights also highlight the value of keeping clear records. Homeowners should take photos of visible damage, note the date of the storm, and save records of any repairs. These details may help support a roof insurance claim.

If water enters the home, homeowners should take reasonable steps to prevent further damage. Keeping receipts for temporary repairs may also be helpful because some homeowners insurance policies cover eligible costs to limit additional damage.

What Should Homeowners Review Before Filing an Insurance Claim?

The HelloNation article explains why reviewing homeowners insurance is an important step before filing a claim. Policy terms can affect what types of roof damage are covered and how much a homeowner may need to pay.

Most standard homeowners insurance policies provide some protection against sudden hail damage. However, coverage depends on the policy, the cause of the damage, and the roof's condition. Normal wear and poor upkeep are generally treated differently from damage caused by a recent storm.

An insurance deductible is another important factor. This is the amount a homeowner pays toward a covered loss before the insurance company pays its share.

For example, if covered roof repairs cost $8,000 and the deductible is $2,000, the insurer may pay $6,000, depending on the policy.

The article also explains that some policies have separate wind and hail deductibles. These may be set dollar amounts or percentages of the home's insured value. A two percent deductible on a home insured for $300,000 would equal $6,000.

Understanding these amounts can help homeowners estimate their costs before filing hail damage insurance claims.

How Does Roof Coverage Affect Insurance Payments?

The article identifies replacement cost coverage and actual cash value coverage as two important terms homeowners should understand.

Replacement cost coverage generally pays based on the cost of repairing or replacing covered damage with similar materials. Actual cash value coverage takes the roof's age and wear into account, which may lead to a smaller payment.

The article also explains that some replacement cost policies issue payments in stages. An insurance company may send an initial payment and release the remaining eligible amount after repairs are complete.

Homeowners may need to provide receipts or final repair documents before receiving the remaining funds. The exact process depends on the insurance policy.

Knowing how roof coverage works can help homeowners prepare for repair costs and understand what to expect during a claim.

What Happens After a Homeowner Files a Roof Insurance Claim?

According to the HelloNation article, homeowners who decide to file a claim should contact their insurance company and ask about the required documents and deadlines.

The insurance company may arrange an inspection to review the damage and determine what the policy covers.

Homeowners can also request a written repair estimate from a qualified roofer. Comparing that estimate with the insurer's findings may help identify differences in the proposed work.

The article notes that not every hail mark means a roof needs to be replaced. Homeowners should ask questions when repair recommendations or damage findings are unclear.

Keeping copies of photos, estimates, receipts, and claim messages can also make the process easier to follow. If an insurer denies part of a claim, homeowners can ask which policy terms apply and whether another review is available.

The article also encourages homeowners to be careful when hiring contractors after a major storm. Checking licenses where required, insurance, references, and written contracts can help homeowners avoid problems during repairs. Homeowners who are unsure which roofing company to hire can also contact their local insurance agent for a list of reliable roofing companies.

What Homeowners Should Know About Hail Damage and Roof Insurance Claims features insights from Steven Barber, Insurance Expert of Fort Worth, Texas, in HelloNation.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What Should Homeowners Do First After a Hailstorm?

Steven Barber's insights in the HelloNation article explain that homeowners should check for visible damage from a safe location. Taking photos, recording the storm date, and arranging a professional roof inspection can help homeowners understand the damage before filing a claim.

Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Hail Damage to a Roof?

The article explains that most standard homeowners insurance policies cover some sudden hail damage. However, roof coverage depends on the policy terms, the cause of the damage, and the roof's condition. Normal wear and poor upkeep may not qualify for the same protection.

How Does an Insurance Deductible Affect a Hail Damage Claim?

According to the article featuring Steven Barber, an insurance deductible is the amount a homeowner pays toward a covered loss. Some policies have separate wind and hail deductibles that may be higher than the deductible for other claims.

What Is the Difference Between Replacement Cost Coverage and Actual Cash Value Coverage?

The HelloNation article explains that replacement cost coverage generally pays based on the cost of repairing or replacing covered damage with similar materials. Actual cash value coverage considers the roof's age and wear, which may reduce the claim payment.

How Can Homeowners Find a Reliable Roofing Contractor After a Hailstorm?

Steven Barber's featured insights encourage homeowners to check a roofing contractor's license where required, insurance, references, and written contract before agreeing to repairs. Homeowners can also contact their local insurance agent for a list of reliable roofing companies if they need help deciding whom to hire.

About HelloNation

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

SOURCE HelloNation

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Austin's #1 Credit Union invites the community to experience nationally recognized digital banking and discover what it means to live an A+ life

AUSTIN, Texas, Oct. 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- A+ Federal Credit Union (A+FCU) is celebrating a year of recognition by saying thank you to the community that made it possible and inviting more people to experience award-winning banking with a special opportunity to earn up to $250 when they become a new member.

For the fourth consecutive year, A+FCU was voted the #1 Credit Union in the 2026 Best of ATX Awards, an honor determined by votes from the local community.

The local recognition comes alongside national honors for A+FCU's digital banking experience. Global Finance's 2026 World's Best Consumer Digital Banking Awards named A+FCU Best Consumer Digital Bank in the United States, while the A+ Mobile App was named Best Mobile Banking App in the United States and North America for the second consecutive year.

Together, the honors recognize both sides of the A+FCU experience: a credit union deeply connected to the communities it serves and one delivering innovative, convenient digital banking that helps members manage their money wherever life takes them.

"Being voted Austin's Best Credit Union for four years in a row is especially meaningful because that recognition comes from the community we serve. Combined with national recognition for our digital banking experience, it's a powerful reflection of our team's commitment to helping members live their A+ lives," said Eric R. Kase, President/CEO of A+ Federal Credit Union. "We're grateful to our members for their continued trust, and we invite even more of those in Central Texas and across the state to experience the A+ difference."

As a special thank you and invitation to the community, new members can currently earn up to $250 when they join A+FCU and open qualifying accounts. There are a variety of ways to qualify for an A+FCU membership. New members can earn $50 for opening a new membership with a free Cash-Back Checking Account, plus another $200 after qualifying payroll direct deposits totaling $800 or more. The promotion requires use of promo code 2026OFFER250 and is subject to additional terms and eligibility requirements.

And the benefits are designed to continue beyond the initial offer. The A+FCU Cash-Back Checking Account offers unlimited cash back on purchases made with an A+FCU debit card, with no monthly fees and cash back paid monthly.

Members also have access to A+FCU's nationally recognized digital banking experience. The free A+ Mobile App includes biometric login and enhanced security features, real-time transaction alerts, card controls and budgeting tools, mobile check deposit, person-to-person money transfers, access to free monthly credit score updates, streamlined direct deposit setup, and live chat support.

"For more than 77 years, we've grown alongside the communities we serve," Kase added. "As we look ahead, we'll continue finding new ways to make banking easier, more convenient, and more rewarding while staying true to the personal service and community commitment that have always defined A+FCU."

To learn more about A+FCU membership and limited-time $250 new member joining offer, visit aplusfcu.org/rewards.

About A+ Federal Credit Union

A+ Federal Credit Union was founded in 1949 by 50 Austin, Texas teachers. Over seventy-seven years later, A+FCU is an award-winning institution with more than 191,000 members throughout the community, $2.52 billion in assets, over 520 employees, and 22 branches. A+FCU supports members with a full range of financial products including home, auto, and business loans, checking and savings accounts, as well as digital banking solutions for banking on the go. Learn more at aplusfcu.org.

SOURCE A+ Federal Credit Union

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