Die Bulat-Utemuratov-Stiftung stellt 460 Millionen Tenge zur Unterstützung des Gasifizierungsprojekts in Almaty bereit

ALMATY, Kasachstan, 8. September 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Die Stiftung von Bulat Utemuratov kündigte die Bereitstellung von 460 Millionen Tenge (ca. 1 Million US-Dollar) zur Förderung der Gasversorgung privater Wohnhäuser in Almaty an Die Initiative, die in Zusammenarbeit mit dem Akimat (Bürgermeisteramt) der Stadt Almaty umgesetzt wird, zielt darauf ab, die städtische Infrastruktur auszubauen und damit die Lebensbedingungen sowie die Luftqualität in der Stadt zu verbessern.

Im Rahmen einer kürzlich unterzeichneten Vereinbarung wird der Akimat der Stadt Almaty private Wohngebäude begutachten, die Bewohner hinsichtlich des Anschlussverfahrens beraten und sie beim Übergang zur Erdgasheizung umfassend unterstützen. Im Anschluss an diesen Prozess werden qualifizierte Bauunternehmer die erforderlichen Bau- und Installationsarbeiten durchführen.

Darkhan Satybaldy, Akim (Bürgermeister) von Almaty, betonte: „Wir setzen unsere gezielten Bemühungen fort, Privathaushalte an das städtische Gasversorgungsnetz anzuschließen. Die Anforderungen können von Fall zu Fall variieren, weshalb es wichtig ist, die Bewohner neben den technischen Arbeiten umfassend zu unterstützen – von der Beratung bis zum eigentlichen Anschluss. Dank der Unterstützung sozial verantwortungsbewusster Unternehmen können wir diese Initiative ausweiten."

Die Umstellung von Kohle auf Erdgas in Privathaushalten ist ein entscheidender Schritt zur Verbesserung der Luftqualität in Almaty. Während der Heizperiode stellt die Nutzung fester Brennstoffe im privaten Bereich nach wie vor eine wesentliche Verschmutzungsquelle dar.

Ainur Karbozova, Geschäftsführerin der Bulat-Utemuratov-Stiftung, erklärte: „Es ist uns wichtig, ein Projekt zu unterstützen, das auf den Ausbau der städtischen Infrastruktur und die Schaffung angenehmerer Lebensbedingungen für die Einwohner von Almaty abzielt. Durch die Erschließung des privaten Sektors mit Gas können Familien, die noch nicht an das Gasversorgungsnetz angeschlossen sind, auf eine moderne Heizungsart umsteigen. Wir freuen uns sehr, diese städtische Initiative zu unterstützen."

Dieses Vergasungsprojekt knüpft an das langjährige Engagement der Stiftung in Almaty an. Zu den bisherigen Initiativen in der Stadt zählen der umfassende Umbau des Botanischen Gartens, die Modernisierung der Lüftungs- und Klimaanlagen im Nationalen Zentralmuseum der Republik Kasachstan sowie die Eröffnung eines der ersten „Asyl Miras"-Autismuszentren. Während der COVID-19-Pandemie unterstützte die Stiftung zudem das lokale Gesundheitssystem durch die Einrichtung mobiler PCR-Testlabore.

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GOFO Rolls Out a New Next-Generation Automated Sorting Center at Its Lyon Hub

LYON, France and PARIS, Sept. 8, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- GOFO, a last-mile delivery provider expanding rapidly across France, announces the installation of a new automated sorting system, a first in France, at its Lyon sorting hub. Its launch, scheduled for late November 2026, will mark a new milestone in the development of the company's French network.

A new sorting system, unique in France, to support growing parcel volumes

With this sorting technology unmatched anywhere else in France, the Lyon hub sets itself apart from the company's second hub in Bonneuil, near Paris, which relies on a traditional linear sorter. This new equipment will enable GOFO to keep pace with growing parcel volumes while balancing cost control, operational flexibility, and service quality for its merchant partners and their customers.

Covering an area of around 870 m2, the new system takes up half the warehouse space of a traditional single-outlet linear sorter. It combines AI-powered cameras with mechanical sorting and reaches an automation level of 80% for a capacity of 6,500 parcels per hour and an overall efficiency gain of 50%.

This solution is particularly well suited to managing a large number of delivery rounds and, thanks to its compact footprint, enables the automated sorting of more than 90% of the different parcel types. This automation complements the manual work of logistics staff on site at the sorting facility. By reducing certain physical tasks, it strengthens control, supervision, and organizational functions.

Lyon, a strategic hub strengthening GOFO national network in France

As the country's second-largest economic hub and a gateway between Northern Europe and the Mediterranean basin, the Lyon metropolitan area is a strategic anchor point for GOFO. The development of this hub allows the company to strengthen its national coverage along a corridor previously served from its Paris-region sites.

The arrival of the new system will bring direct job creation on site and new opportunities for the Delivery Service Partners (DSP) established in the region. GOFO supports its locally based partners over the long term, notably through recruitment, training in service-quality standards, and operational monitoring of delivery rounds.

The recruitment and training schedule for the site's teams is directly aligned with the sorter's installation timeline, so that staff are operational as soon as the hub ramps up, between mid-October and the official launch at the end of 2026.

"With this next-generation sorter, we are reaching a new technological milestone across our French network. Lyon is becoming a cornerstone of our national network, with unprecedented processing capacity and reliability," says Michel Naudin, Deputy Managing Director of GOFO France.

A delivery experience designed for the French market

Beyond its technological infrastructure, GOFO is focused on the final delivery experience: predictive delivery windows, proactive notifications, and multiple delivery/handover attempts included in France. This approach is designed around French consumer habits, the vast majority of whom receive deliveries in a mailbox or in person, while giving merchant partners greater flexibility.

The development of the Lyon hub reflects this approach, with sorting adapted to parcels weighing 0 to 5 kg, route management via the company's proprietary routing technology, and a network of independent Delivery Service Partners (DSP), sized locally to accommodate fluctuations in activity.

GOFO is also strengthening its sales and marketing teams as it builds out its national presence, in order to support volume growth while maintaining its high standards.

About GOFO France

GOFO, founded in the United States in 2023, is a technology-driven last-mile logistics network serving merchants and consumers across the U.S., Canada, France, the Netherlands, Italy and Spain. Guided by the brand philosophy "Drive Efficiency, Deliver Trust," GOFO combines advanced technology with localized operations to deliver precise, reliable, and scalable delivery solutions. Operating nationwide through sorting centers and delivery centers across the country, GOFO France serves a broad population with high-performance last-mile delivery solutions. Its operations are powered by automated sorting, intelligent routing, and disciplined execution. For more information, please visit www.gofo.com/fr.

Press Contacts

Backbone Agency

Marie Trüb - [email protected] - 06 38 73 77 82

Bérénice Chauveau – [email protected] - 06 63 05 84 04

SOURCE GOFO

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Expanded partnership helps banks and credit unions manage their CRE portfolios more effectively, including construction loan administration

CARMEL, Ind., Sept. 8, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Baker Hill, a leading provider of commercial lending technology for banks and credit unions, and Built, the AI-native platform for real estate and construction finance, today announced an expanded partnership connecting Baker Hill's origination technology with Built's CRE construction loan administration and portfolio management.

The integration will allow loan, borrower, property, project, budget, draw, asset and portfolio data to move between systems, giving banks and credit unions a more complete view of their CRE business without replacing technology they already use.

U.S. commercial banks hold more than $3.1 trillion in commercial real estate loans, including approximately $454 billion in construction and land development loans, according to Federal Reserve data. Yet many financial institutions still manage critical post-close workflows outside their primary lending systems, relying on spreadsheets, email and shared drives to coordinate draws, budgets, inspections, covenants, exceptions, asset performance and supporting documentation. The disconnect can slow decisions, add manual work and limit visibility across the portfolio.

"CRE lending shouldn't become a manual process the moment a loan closes," said Andy Ivankovich, chairman and CEO of Baker Hill. "Our clients need the same efficiency, visibility and control after closing that they have during origination. Expanding our partnership with Built will help financial institutions maintain that continuity through construction loan administration and portfolio management."

Built supports both construction and stabilized CRE loans. The platform centralizes draws, inspections, exceptions and asset performance, so lenders aren't stitching together data from separate systems.

"CRE lending has long depended on a patchwork of disconnected tools to manage critical workflows after origination," said Frank Iannotti, VP and GM of Lender at Built. "Our expanded partnership with Baker Hill gives teams cleaner data and better visibility, so they can spend less time reconciling systems and more time making informed decisions."

About Baker Hill

Baker Hill is the leading provider of commercial lending technology for banks and credit unions across the United States. Each month, financial institutions use Baker Hill's platform to process more than $7 billion in lending originations — helping them Lend Better, Lend Faster, and Lend More™ in their communities. Backed by Flexpoint Ford, a private equity firm, Baker Hill delivers the scale, security and innovation required to meet the demands of modern banking. The company is headquartered in Carmel, Indiana, with operations in Santa Barbara, California. For more information, visit www.bakerhill.com.

About Built

Built helps commercial real estate and construction teams save time and money and make better decisions on every deal. Its AI-native platform brings lenders, property owners and developers into one shared system. Lenders manage the full loan lifecycle, from origination and construction loan administration through portfolio management, while owners and developers manage budgets, draws, payments, and compliance. By replacing spreadsheets, emails, and manual handoffs with real-time visibility and connected workflows, Built helps teams collaborate more effectively, manage risk, and keep projects and portfolios on track. Learn more at getbuilt.com.

SOURCE Baker Hill

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The article outlines how matching flooring materials to each room's daily demands improves durability, comfort, and long-term value.

SALEM, N.H., Sept. 8, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The article explains that choosing flooring for every room involves much more than selecting a style or color. Each area of the home has different demands based on moisture exposure, foot traffic, cleaning needs, comfort, and everyday activities. According to the article, a successful flooring plan starts with how people actually use each space, not just its appearance.

The HelloNation article notes that household lifestyle also plays an important role in flooring decisions. Families with children, pets, frequent visitors, or mobility concerns often benefit from materials designed to handle heavier daily use. Maintenance preferences and long-term ownership costs should also be evaluated before making a final decision.

For living rooms and family rooms, the article describes hardwood flooring as a long-standing choice because of its natural appearance and durability. Engineered hardwood offers a similar look while providing greater stability in areas with humidity or temperature changes. The article also highlights luxury vinyl plank as a practical alternative because it resists scratches, withstands spills, and requires relatively simple maintenance. Many households also appreciate waterproof flooring options that make cleaning everyday accidents easier.

Kitchen flooring must withstand heavy foot traffic while resisting spills and dropped objects. The article explains that luxury vinyl is a strong option because it combines water resistance with comfort underfoot and offers a wide range of wood and stone looks. Porcelain tile remains another dependable choice, although it may feel harder during extended periods of standing. Hardwood flooring may also work in kitchens when moisture is managed carefully and spills are cleaned promptly.

Bathrooms and laundry rooms require materials that can tolerate consistent moisture exposure. The article recommends porcelain tile, ceramic tile, and waterproof vinyl because these products resist water damage more effectively than many alternatives. It also notes that traditional hardwood and standard laminate generally perform less well in high-moisture areas because prolonged water exposure can cause swelling or separation.

The article explains that bedroom flooring should provide warmth, comfort, and quieter living spaces. Carpet remains a popular option because it provides softness underfoot and helps reduce noise. Hardwood flooring and luxury vinyl plank also perform well in bedrooms, particularly when paired with area rugs. For individuals with allergies, hard-surface flooring may make it easier to remove dust and pet hair.

According to the HelloNation article, entryways, hallways, and mudrooms see some of the highest daily wear. These spaces benefit from scratch-resistant flooring that withstands dirt, water, and outdoor debris. Tile and luxury vinyl are dependable options, while engineered hardwood may also perform well when protected with entry mats. Basements require additional attention because concrete floors can release moisture, making waterproof vinyl, tile, and properly installed engineered products suitable choices.

The article concludes that lifestyle should guide every flooring decision. Flooring for children and pets often emphasizes scratch resistance and waterproof performance, while older homeowners may prioritize traction and smoother transitions between rooms. Budget planning should also account for installation, maintenance, and repair costs, as well as expected lifespan, so homeowners can compare flooring materials based on long-term value instead of purchase price alone.

" Choosing the Right Flooring for Every Room" features insights from Austin J. Messina, a Flooring Installation Expert in Salem, New Hampshire, on HelloNation.

About HelloNation

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

SOURCE HelloNation

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Newly created leadership role advances the company's financial strategy and operations

MERRILL, Wis., Sept. 8, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Church Mutual Insurance Company, S.I. (a stock insurer)¹ has named Ben Parisi vice president, head of finance operations and financial planning and analysis. Parisi will lead finance operations, expense management, procurement, payroll, financial planning and analysis, and management reporting. He will report to Daniel Kim, senior vice president and chief financial officer.

The newly created role supports the continued evolution of Church Mutual's finance functions and strengthens its ability to provide the financial insight and operational support the business needs to make informed decisions.

"I've known Ben for many years, and I've seen firsthand the kind of leader he is," Kim said. "He understands the fundamentals of finance, knows how to build strong teams and has a practical way of helping the business make better decisions. As Church Mutual continues to grow and evolve, Ben brings experience we can put to work right away."

Parisi brings more than 25 years of finance experience, including more than two decades with Zurich North America. Most recently, he served as vice president, head of finance operations, leading teams responsible for premium and fee collections, disbursements, cash management and other core finance functions.

During his career with Zurich, Parisi also held leadership roles in expense management and financial planning and analysis. He led planning, forecasting and process improvement efforts, developed financial models and systems, and partnered with business leaders to improve visibility into financial performance and support decision-making. Earlier in his career, Parisi worked for Aon Risk Services and Coleman, Epstein, Berlin & Co. LLP.

"I was drawn to Church Mutual because of its purpose and the important role it plays for community-driven organizations," Parisi said. "I'm excited to get to know the people here and learn the business from their perspective to continue evolving how finance can help move the business forward."

Parisi earned a bachelor's degree in agribusiness, farm and financial management, with a concentration in accounting, from the University of Illinois. He holds a Master of Business Administration degree from DePaul University and is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). He will be based in Church Mutual's Madison office.

About Church Mutual

Church Mutual Insurance Company, S.I., founded in 1897, offers specialized insurance for religious organizations of all denominations, public and private K-12 schools, colleges and universities, secular and non-secular camps and conference centers, and nonprofit and human services organizations throughout the United States. To learn more, visit churchmutual.com.

1Church Mutual is a stock insurer whose policyholders are members of the parent mutual holding company formed on 1/1/20. S.I. = a stock insurer.

Contact: Avery Faehling

Title: Manager - Corporate Communications

Phone: (715) 697-4590

Email: [email protected] 

SOURCE Church Mutual Insurance Company

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Jockey Club concludes landmark 10th anniversary of PBC with Gala Dinner featuring delegates from around the world to celebrate a decade of global dialogue

HONG KONG, Sept. 8, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The Hong Kong Jockey Club concluded the landmark 10th anniversary and fifth edition of its PBC forum at West Kowloon Cultural District today (8 September). Convened over two days by the Club's Charities Trust in association with the Institute of Philanthropy (IoP), PBC 2026 featured more than 80 eminent speakers and over 2,000 delegates from around the world. Under the central theme of "Leaping for Impact", the forum brought together leaders from the philanthropic, sports, business, government, academic and social sectors.

Thematic discussions over the two days addressed pressing social issues including health, the well-being of older adults, urban poverty alleviation, heritage conservation, youth positive trajectory development, climate resilience and inclusive employment. Interactive Impact Studios, Co-Learning Workshops and other extended programmes further bridged visionary ideas with practical implementation, examining how meaningful social impact can be achieved on the ground.

To mark the forum's conclusion and celebrate a decade of global dialogue, a PBC 2026 Gala Dinner was held at the Hong Kong Palace Museum. It brought together delegates from the Chinese Mainland and across the world including foundation leaders, government officials, tertiary institution representatives and community leaders. Among the distinguished attendees were Dr the Hon Starry Lee, Member of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress and President of the Legislative Council of the HKSAR; The Hon Mrs Regina Ip, Convenor of the Non-official Members of the Executive Council of the HKSAR; Club Chairman The Hon Martin Liao; Club Deputy Chairman and IoP Chairman Lester Huang; Club Stewards; Club CEO and IoP Director Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges; and other members of the Club's Board of Management.

Dr the Hon Starry Lee, Member of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress and President of the Legislative Council of the HKSAR, said at the Gala Dinner that, over the past decade, the PBC forum had not only borne witness to the development of philanthropy, but had also promoted exchange and collaboration among the Chinese Mainland, Hong Kong and the international community. Looking ahead to the country's 15th Five-Year Plan, she noted that philanthropic models that take a long-term perspective and place greater emphasis on capacity building and talent development would become increasingly important.

The Hon Mrs Regina Ip, Convenor of the Non-official Members of the Executive Council of the HKSAR, said: "Meaningful achievement is built through clarity of purpose, discipline, resilience, honest self-assessment, and an unyielding determination to improve. Those same qualities are becoming increasingly essential in philanthropy, and The Hong Kong Jockey Club is especially well placed to lead this conversation because it sits at the unique intersection of sport, public purpose and philanthropy at scale."

Club Chairman The Hon Martin Liao expressed his profound gratitude to all speakers, panellists, moderators and participants of PBC 2026 for bringing their remarkable range of experience and perspectives to the forum. He praised the progress that PBC has made over the past decade in addressing prevailing social challenges and inspiring cross-sector and cross-regional partnerships, to its position today as one of the largest assemblies of the global philanthropic community worldwide.

Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges, the Club's CEO and IoP Director, delivered the forum's closing remarks, echoing insights from forum speakers and reflecting on the sector's evolving journey. "If there is one lesson that has emerged consistently over the past two days, it is that meaningful impact does not happen by accident. It requires vision, discipline and commitment. But above all, it requires collaboration." He added: "No organisation, foundation, government or business can address today's challenges alone. Partnerships are key, but equally important is finding the right partners: those who bring complementary strengths, share our purpose are committed to achieving meaningful outcomes together."

Earlier today, the opening keynote address was delivered by Hari Menon, President of Global Growth & Opportunity at the Gates Foundation. Entitled "The New Growth Agenda: Philanthropy's Role in Expanding Opportunity for All", it examined the catalytic role of philanthropy in enabling more people to contribute to and benefit from economic growth.

As part of the Club's ongoing efforts to promote education and development equity, and following the adoption and adaptation of the CoolThink@JC curriculum in Cambodian primary schools earlier this year, an MOU on early childhood education and development was signed today. Witnessed by Club Steward Jackson Woo, the MOU was signed by Dr Gabriel Leung, Club Executive Director, Charities and Community, and H.E. Dr Kim Sethany, Permanent Secretary of State of Cambodia's Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport, reaffirming the shared commitment to strengthening development foundations and better life trajectories for children.

The forum's closing plenary featured an intergenerational dialogue between a sports leader-turned-philanthropist and aspiring young athletes who want to drive change. Moderated by Yao Ming, Founder and Chairman of the Yao Foundation, the session examined how athletes can broaden their impact and how personal growth can translate into leadership and community building. The speakers were Yvette Kong, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Arelyx and Olympic swimmer; Jacqueline Lai, Hong Kong, China equestrian team rider and Asian Games medallist; and Cado Lee, two-time Asian Games gold medallist and a Hong Kong, China Rugby Sevens player.

In line with this year's theme, The Bridgespan Group unveiled a new report examining what distinguishes family giving in Asia and how the world's wealthiest families approach philanthropy. Supported by IoP, The Rockefeller Foundation and the Gates Foundation, the research explores the relationship between family, business and philanthropy across the region. Separately, Bridgespan's latest corporate giving research found that The Hong Kong Jockey Club and its Charities Trust remain the leading corporate donor in Asia and the eighth largest globally, with an annual average of approved donations of US$774 million from 2020 to 2024.

Initiated in 2016, PBC has served as a flagship platform for global philanthropic thought leadership and cross-sector collaboration, engaging some 10,000 participants and more than 380 speakers from over 40 countries and regions throughout the past decade.

The Club's support for PBC 2026, like all of its charity and community initiatives, is made possible by its unique value creation model through which racing and wagering generate tax contributions, charity support and employment opportunities for the community.

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AUSTIN, Texas and LYON, France, Sept. 8, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- LumApps, the market leader in employee experience platforms, today announced the appointment of Sébastien Cano as Chief Executive Officer, effective December 1, 2026. Founder and current CEO Sébastien Ricard will transition to the role of Executive Chairman of the company.

The planned transition comes as LumApps reaches significant scale, serving millions of employees across desk teams and frontline workers globally. As Executive Chairman, Ricard will remain actively involved in long-term strategy and company governance, while handing over day-to-day operations to Cano.

Cano brings more than two decades of enterprise software leadership, specializing in scaling high-growth technology companies into global market leaders. He previously held senior executive positions at Thales and Gemalto, where he led international operations and business expansion. In his new role, Cano will focus on executing LumApps' Workhub product vision and expanding customer value worldwide.

"Over ten years ago, we founded LumApps with a simple goal: to transform how businesses connect, inform, and engage every employee, anywhere," said Sébastien Ricard, Founder and incoming Executive Chairman. "Thanks to our customers and partners, LumApps has become the global leader in employee experience. As we enter our next major phase of innovation & growth, Sébastien Cano's extensive track record in leading enterprise tech companies makes him the ideal leader to guide LumApps forward."

"LumApps has built an exceptional platform, a world-class team, and a highly trusted brand among businesses of all sizes across the globe," said Sébastien Cano, incoming Chief Executive Officer. "Based in our U.S. headquarters in Austin, Texas, I look forward to working closely with our customers, partners, and global teams to keep delivering on our promise across all regions. I am excited to join the organization at this pivotal moment. My priority will be accelerating our Workhub innovation roadmap, and ensuring every employee across lines of business and industries maximizes the value of their LumApps solution in an AI-driven world."

About LumApps

LumApps is the AI Employee Hub where work comes together — connecting people, tools, information, and communication across the entire employee experience, from the frontline to HQ. Designed around how people actually work, LumApps reduces digital friction by bringing communication, productivity tools, learning, and workflows into one intelligent platform.

Integrating with Google Workspace and Microsoft 365, LumApps helps employees find information faster and take action more easily, with AI agents connected across enterprise systems. With over 10 million users and customers like Zapier and Genuine Parts Company, LumApps helps organizations operate with greater clarity and connection across their workforce.

LumApps is recognized as a Leader in Intranets by both Gartner® and Forrester®.

For more information, visit www.lumapps.com.

CONTACT: [email protected]

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The article explains how clinical testing can provide detailed information about hearing levels, speech clarity, differences between ears, and everyday listening concerns.

LEBANON, Pa., Sept. 8, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- What can a professional hearing test reveal that an online test cannot?

A HelloNation article featuring insights from Hearing Expert Linda Gonya-Hartman, Au.D. of Hearing & Ear Care Center in Lebanon, PA, provides the answer by examining how clinical testing offers a more complete picture of hearing.

The article explains that a professional hearing test measures hearing across different frequencies rather than checking only whether someone detects certain sounds. These measurements can identify patterns of difficulty that may not be noticeable during an ordinary conversation.

A hearing evaluation also measures the quietest sounds a person can hear at different pitches. The results create a detailed profile showing where hearing levels fall across the tested range instead of providing only a pass-or-fail screening result.

The article notes that an online hearing test can offer a convenient first indication that hearing may have changed. However, speakers, headphones, background noise, and device volume can influence results. An audiologist uses calibrated equipment and controlled testing conditions to reduce these variables.

Speech understanding is another important part of clinical testing. Someone may hear another person speaking while still having difficulty recognizing particular words. Measuring speech understanding can provide information about listening difficulties that basic tone testing may not capture.

This distinction can matter in everyday settings. A person may follow a quiet conversation but struggle in restaurants, group discussions, or other environments. A professional hearing test can examine both hearing levels and how the auditory system handles meaningful sounds such as speech.

The article explains that an audiologist can also compare results between the two ears. Differences may be significant even when overall hearing appears adequate. A detailed hearing evaluation can identify these patterns and help determine whether additional assessment should be considered.

Additional testing may also be appropriate depending on a person's concerns and initial findings. These tests can provide information about the middle ear or other parts of the auditory system. The specific approach depends on symptoms, hearing history, and individual needs.

Personal history adds further context. The article notes that questions about noise exposure, medications, family history, and difficult listening situations can help place clinical results within a person's everyday experiences.

An online hearing test has limited ability to account for these individual factors. It may identify a possible concern, but it cannot directly examine the ears or adapt the testing process based on findings during an appointment.

Hearing screening tools can still provide useful information. Someone uncertain about changes in hearing may use them as an initial check before deciding whether to seek a more complete assessment. Hearing screening tools can therefore serve a different purpose from comprehensive clinical testing.

The article notes that detailed testing can be especially useful when hearing concerns affect conversations, work, television, phone calls, or social activities. These difficulties may involve particular frequencies or clarity rather than an overall reduction in hearing.

Results can also establish a baseline for monitoring changes over time. An audiologist can compare later measurements with earlier findings, providing more specific information than relying only on personal impressions of whether hearing has changed.

The article concludes that professional testing does not automatically mean hearing devices will be recommended. Results may instead point toward monitoring, further assessment, communication strategies, or other hearing support based on individual listening needs.

What Can a Professional Hearing Test Reveal That an Online Test Can't? features insights from Linda Gonya-Hartman, Au.D., Hearing Expert of Lebanon, PA, in HelloNation.

About HelloNation

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

SOURCE HelloNation

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New Floor/Ceiling, Concealed Ducted and Ceiling Cassette systems give contractors more installation flexibility while delivering ENERGY STAR® certified efficiency and reliable performance.

LAS VEGAS, Sept. 8, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- TOSOT today announced the expansion of its light commercial HVAC lineup with three new indoor unit configurations: Floor/Ceiling, Concealed Ducted, and Ceiling Cassette. Each configuration is designed for different spaces, giving contractors more options when wall space, ceiling access, ductwork, or interior design affects installation.

Built for demanding commercial environments, the new TOSOT Aoraki Light Commercial Series combines ENERGY STAR® certified efficiency with a wide operating range, providing cooling up to 140°F and heating down to -40°F. The collection includes:

- Aoraki Floor/Ceiling Mount Mini Split Air Conditioner

- Aoraki Ducted Mini Split Air Conditioner

- Aoraki Ceiling Cassette Mini Split Air Conditioner

"Commercial spaces are rarely designed the same way, so the HVAC system needs to work with the space, not against it," said Perry C., Product Developer at TOSOT. "By offering floor/ceiling, concealed ducted, and ceiling cassette options, contractors have more freedom to choose the installation that makes the most sense for each project."

Floor/Ceiling: Flexible Installation for Challenging Spaces

The Floor/Ceiling system gives contractors two installation options from the same indoor unit: low on a wall near the floor or suspended from the ceiling. This flexibility is useful in retail stores, showrooms, and spaces with large windows, limited wall space, or changing layouts where traditional wall-mounted systems may not be practical. Available in 18K and 24K BTU configurations, it supports indoor-to-outdoor height differences of up to 82 ft.

Concealed Ducted: Comfort That Stays Out of Sight

For restaurants, offices, and renovation projects where appearance matters, the Concealed Ducted system installs above the ceiling or within a service area. The 18K and 24K BTU models offer adjustable external static pressure up to 200 Pa to accommodate a range of duct layouts and support piping lengths up to 131.2 ft.

Ceiling Cassette: More Even Airflow for Open Spaces

Built for restaurants, retail stores, offices, and studios, the Ceiling Cassette sits within the ceiling and distributes conditioned air in multiple directions, making it practical for larger shared spaces while preserving wall space. The lineup spans 9K to 24K BTU configurations with efficiency ratings up to 24 SEER2, and includes a built-in condensate pump.

Efficiency and Performance Across the Lineup

Across the series, TOSOT combines ENERGY STAR® certified efficiency with features designed for year-round commercial use. Select configurations reach up to 24 SEER2, and all three system types use R32 refrigerant. Shared features include low-voltage startup, anti-freeze protection, and intelligent defrost.

Rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach, the expanded lineup gives contractors more ways to meet different heating and cooling needs.

The Aoraki Light Commercial Series will be available for purchase in early September 2026 on TOSOTDirect.com.

About TOSOT

TOSOT provides heating, cooling, and indoor comfort solutions designed for a variety of building types and climates. With a focus on performance, efficiency, and practical design, TOSOT develops HVAC solutions that adapt to different spaces and comfort needs. Learn more at TOSOTDirect.com.

Media Contact: Kiera Dalton, [email protected]

SOURCE TOSOT Direct

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The Article Outlines How Couples Can Compare Catering Options Based on Food, Staffing, Costs, Communication, and Venue Needs

ROLLA, Mo., Sept. 8, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- What should you look for when choosing a wedding caterer? A HelloNation article provides the answer. Catering Expert Ryan P. Davis of Argyle Catering Company explains how couples can evaluate wedding catering services beyond food quality.

The article explains that experience is an important starting point when comparing caterers. A team familiar with weddings of a similar size and style may be better prepared for challenges involving large guest counts, outdoor settings, formal dinners, or buffet service.

According to the article, couples should also understand exactly what a catering company handles during an event. Some companies provide only food, while others handle servers, bartenders, rentals, table settings, setup, and cleanup. Reviewing the service style can help couples compare wedding catering costs more accurately.

The HelloNation article also highlights menu flexibility as an important consideration. Depending on their plans, couples may want customized dishes or established menu choices. Discuss dietary restrictions, food allergies, vegetarian selections, and children's meals early in the planning process.

Venue logistics can also shape the catering plan. The article notes that some wedding venues have commercial kitchens, while others provide limited preparation space. Couples should ask whether the caterer knows the venue and what additional equipment may be needed.

The article explains that strong wedding catering services should connect food preparation with staffing, timing, and venue requirements. A detailed catering quote can help couples understand whether the proposed cost includes service charges, gratuities, rentals, staffing, delivery, and cleanup.

Staffing levels can also affect the reception experience. The article suggests asking how many servers will work the event and whether an event manager will be present. Couples should also learn who will coordinate meal timing with the venue, wedding planner, and other vendors.

A wedding catering tasting offers another opportunity to evaluate a catering team. According to the article, couples can use the tasting to consider flavor, portion size, presentation, and whether the dishes match their expectations. It also offers a chance to discuss adjustments before the wedding.

Communication during that tasting can provide useful insight into how the planning process may proceed. The article notes that an organized caterer should be prepared to address serving methods, menu changes, dietary needs, and timing. Ryan P. Davis, the catering expert, is featured in the article.

The HelloNation article also advises couples to discuss how they'll handle changes. Guest counts can rise or fall, outdoor wedding plans may shift because of weather, and menu needs can change. Understanding deadlines and policies can help couples prepare as the event approaches.

Ultimately, the article explains that selecting wedding catering services requires considering several connected factors. Food quality is important, but organization, communication, staffing, budget, service style, and venue logistics can also affect how smoothly the reception runs. The guidance featuring Catering Expert Ryan P. Davis of Argyle Catering Company gives couples a practical framework for comparing these details.

"Choosing the Right Wedding Caterer for Your Event" features insights from Ryan P. Davis, a catering expert from Rolla, Missouri, on HelloNation.

About HelloNation

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SOURCE HelloNation

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