Bundesinnenminister Alexander Dobrindt (CSU): Zusammenarbeit mit AfD ist ausgeschlossen

Berlin/Bonn (ots)

Bundesinnenminister Alexander Dobrindt (CSU) hat sich in der Interviewsendung "phoenix persönlich" zu einer möglichen Koalition von Linken, Grünen und SPD in Berlin geäußert. Im Interview mit Theo Koll sprach er sich dafür aus, diesen Prozess nicht damit zu vergleichen, wie die Union mit der AfD umgehe. "Nur, weil der eine einen Fehler macht, legitimiert das nicht, selber Fehler zu machen", sagte Dobrindt. Der Begriff "Brandmauer" werde oftmals in Frage gestellt. "Aber die Zusammenarbeit, die dahinter dann stehen soll, die ist ausgeschlossen. Das gibt es mit der Union nicht. Das ist auch kein politisches Modell, das wir vertreten. Ich finde, wir sind in einer Lage in Deutschland, wo wir die politische Mitte stärken müssen", machte er deutlich. Man könne nicht aus der eigenen Schwäche heraus wieder Stärke gewinnen, wenn man mit radikalen Kräften zusammenarbeite, sagte er auch in Richtung der SPD.

Ein weiteres Thema war die derzeitige Bedrohungslage in Deutschland. Das Land sei derzeit einer Vielzahl von hybriden Angriffen ausgesetzt. Diese Art und Intensität der Bedrohung sei bisher unbekannt gewesen. Dobrindt arbeite daran, ein Bewusstsein für diese Gefahr zu schaffen, ohne dabei Panik zu verbreiten. "Die Zeiten hier werden deutlich unruhiger und wir haben es mit einem Aggressor zu tun. Nicht nur einem, aber wir haben es hier speziell mit einem Aggressor zu tun, der bereit ist, sehr weit zu gehen, um Schaden anzurichten, um eine Gesellschaft zu destabilisieren", machte Dobrindt klar. Es gehe nicht mehr darum, Deutschland militärisch zu besiegen, "sondern uns gesellschaftlich, politisch zu bezwingen. Das ist ja eine andere Aufstellung und deswegen nutzt man andere Mittel".

Viele Menschen könnten derzeit mit dem Begriff "hybride Bedrohung" noch nicht so viel anfangen. Die Gefahr sei vielfältig und umfasse neben den Drohnenangriffen auch Brandanschläge sowie Angriffe auf den Cyberbereich und die Infrastruktur. Trotz der Gefahr dürfe aber "nicht das ganze Leben nur über Risiken beschrieben werden", denn dann werde das Risiko und damit auch die hohe Gefahr zur Normalität. Dobrindt: "Aber ich will nicht, dass man das Risiko als rein normal betrachtet, weil dann wird man nachlässig."

Einen Nachholbedarf sieht er beim Bevölkerungsschutz und der zivilen Verteidigung, "weil wir haben verlernt, damit umzugehen". Das Konzept Bunkerbau verfolge man aktuell aber nicht, "weil die Bedrohungslage heute ja eine andere ist". Die Gesellschaft sei heute mobil und müsse bei Gefahr jederzeit erreichbar sein. Ziel sei es deshalb nun, alle bereits vorhandenen möglichen Schutzräume wie Tiefgaragen, Keller und Tunnel in die NINA-Warn-App einzubauen. Zudem sollen Feuerwehren und Rettungsdienste besser ausgerüstet und ausgestattet werden.

Das ganze Interview sehen Sie hier: https://youtu.be/WQ5-jPls20A

Pressekontakt:

phoenix-Kommunikation

Telefon: 0228 / 9584 192

kommunikation@phoenix.de

Twitter.com: phoenix_de

Original-Content von: PHOENIX, übermittelt durch news aktuell

"nd.DieWoche": Zweifaches Versagen - Kommentar zum Umgang des "Spiegels" mit einem Interview der Berliner Linke-Politikerin Elif Eralp

Berlin (ots)

Die Berliner Linke-Politikerin Elif Eralp hat dem "Spiegel" ein Interview gegeben; ihr Büro schickte dem Magazin versehentlich eine interne, nicht endgültig bearbeitete Fassung zurück. Keine Frage: Die Linke selbst hat mit dieser Panne den Ball auf den Elf-Meter-Punkt gelegt. Allerdings hätte der "Spiegel" durchaus auf die Publikation der offensichtlich falschen Fassung (oder von Teilen davon) verzichten können, wenn nicht sogar müssen - auch im Interesse der Sicherheit von Elif Eralp und ihrer Familie. Denn diese wurde in nicht für die Öffentlichkeit bestimmten Anmerkungen zum Interview thematisiert.

Die Praxis, Zeitungsinterviews autorisieren zu lassen, ist problematisch. Sie reicht von kleinen Korrekturen bis zu komplett umgeschriebenen Gesprächen. Dennoch ist sie in Deutschland die Regel. Dagegen zu verstoßen, ist zumindest fragwürdig. Immerhin illustrieren die zitierten Anmerkungen von Elif Eralp, welchem Druck Menschen generell ausgesetzt sind, die in der Öffentlichkeit stehen.

Illustriert werden auch die anhaltenden Konflikte in der Linken zum Thema Nahost. Allerdings bettet sich die "Spiegel"-Veröffentlichung nahtlos in das Grundmuster der deutschen Debatte ein. Der zweifellos nötigen Kritik am Terrorismus der Hamas (die indessen oft in eine Generalverurteilung der Palästinenser übergeht) steht da eine nachsichtige Beurteilung der mörderischen Politik Israels etwa in Gaza gegenüber. Vor diesem Hintergrund ordnet sich die "Spiegel"-Geschichte auch ein in die Reihe der Versuche, einen Linke-geführten Senat in Berlin zu verhindern. Die Gegner einer Vergesellschaftung von Wohnraum werden es feiern.

Pressekontakt:

nd.DerTag / nd.DieWoche

Redaktion

Telefon: 030/2978-1722

Original-Content von: nd.DerTag / nd.DieWoche, übermittelt durch news aktuell

Vessel to host one-night-only Candlelight® Halloween concert on October 31

Surrounded by the glow of thousands of candles, the Highline String Quartet will perform one session of Halloween favorites and haunting classical works at the iconic NYC venue

NEW YORK, Oct. 29, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The iconic 150-foot Vessel at Hudson Yards' Public Square and Gardens will host A Haunted Evening of Halloween Classics, a one-night-only Candlelight® concert presented by Fever. On October 31 at 9 p.m., the Highline String Quartet will reimagine some of the world's most haunting melodies, surrounded by the glow of thousands of candles.

The program brings together music from classical works, film, television and popular culture. Selections include Michael Jackson's Thriller, Bernard Herrmann's Psycho, the theme from Stranger Things and music from The Nightmare Before Christmas, alongside Saint-Saëns' Danse Macabre and Mussorgsky's Night on Bald Mountain.

Designed by Heatherwick Studio, Vessel is composed of interconnecting flights of stairs and landings inviting visitors to enjoy unique perspectives on the structure, the Hudson River beyond and each other as they move through the experience. Its distinctive architecture will provide a striking setting for this Candlelight performance, with the musicians and candles positioned on the lower floor and guests free to move throughout the structure and take in the performance from the levels above.

Candlelight® experience takes place in iconic venues around the world, illuminated by thousands of candles and performed by talented local musicians. The series is designed to make classical music accessible to a wider audience, offering programs for a range of tastesâfrom masterpieces by composers such as Vivaldi, Mozart and Chopin to fresh interpretations of popular music by artists including Queen, ABBA and Coldplay. Its varied programming welcomes longtime classical music fans and those who may be new to the concert experience.

Candlelight: A Haunted Evening of Halloween Classics

- Venue: Vessel, Hudson Yards, New York City

- Date & Time: October 31 at 9 p.m.

- Price: Tickets are available for $70 which includes access to Vessel.

- Performers: Highline String Quartet

- Duration: 60 minutes. Doors open 45 minutes before the show. No entry once it starts

- Reserve your tickets at: https://feverup.com/m/786748

For more information about Candlelight, access candlelightexperience.com

Images and videos can be found here.

About Fever

Fever is the world's leading tech platform for discovering culture and live entertainment, inspiring over 300 million people last year to discover the best experiences in over 55 countries. With a mission to democratize access to culture and entertainment in real life, Fever inspires users to enjoy unique experiences and events âfrom immersive exhibitions and sports to interactive theatrical performances, concerts, and festivalsâ while empowering its partners with data and technology to develop and expand new experiences worldwide.

About Vessel

Vessel, located at Hudson Yards, is a distinctive New York City experience designed to be explored from the inside. Featuring a network of interconnected staircases and platforms, Vessel allows visitors to gain extraordinary perspectives of the city from various heights and angles. With its signature, shimmering exterior combining bronze-colored stainless steel and glass, Vessel's appearance changes depending on the angle of your camera, the shifting daylight, and the movement of people in and around the structure.

SOURCE Fever

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Ready, set, ship: P.S. Active selects Barrett Distribution Centers for eCommerce fulfillment and transportation

Activewear brand founded by "The Real Housewives of New York City" star Erika Hammond now shipping orders from Barrett's Somerset, N.J., facility

FRANKLIN, Mass., Oct. 29, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Barrett Distribution Centers, a leading national third-party logistics provider, today announced a new partnership with P.S. Active, the premium activewear brand founded by fitness entrepreneur Erika Hammond. Barrett is providing eCommerce fulfillment and transportation for P.S. Active from its facility in Somerset, N.J.

Hammond started P.S. Active after more than a decade in the fitness industry, when she realized she had never asked what her own workout clothes were made of. Most performance apparel uses synthetic, petroleum-based fabrics. P.S. Active uses fabrics made from plant-derived materials instead. The line is designed in New York and made in Portugal.

"As a founder, you spend years obsessing over every detail of your brand, from the product itself to the experience your customer has when they receive their order," said Erika Hammond, founder and CEO of P.S. Active and a cast member on Bravo's "The Real Housewives of New York City." "We were looking for a fulfillment partner that understood premium apparel, felt like an extension of our team and shared that same commitment to quality. From our very first conversations, Barrett stood out for their responsiveness, expertise and collaborative approach. They've been an incredible partner throughout the process, and we're excited to work together as we bring P.S. Active to customers."

Barrett is picking, packing and shipping P.S. Active's online orders and managing transportation from its Somerset facility. Barrett also fulfills orders for apparel, footwear and consumer product brands across its network of distribution centers.

"From my first conversation with Erika, I knew P.S. Active was the right fit for Barrett," said Harrison Smith, director of commercial revenue at Barrett. "She's built a premium brand with a clear point of view on what goes into activewear, and our job is to make sure every order arrives the way she designed it. We're excited to be getting P.S. Active into customers' hands."

P.S. Active orders are now shipping from Barrett. Shop at shoppsactive.com.

To learn more about Barrett, visit barrettdistribution.com.

About P.S. Active

P.S. Active is a premium activewear brand founded by fitness entrepreneur Erika Hammond after more than a decade in the fitness industry. After years of living in activewear, Erika realized she'd never stopped to question what those fabrics were actually made ofâor what she was sweating in every day. P.S. Active was born from a simple belief: what you sweat in matters. The brand exists to redefine the standard for performance apparel by moving beyond the industry's reliance on synthetic, petroleum-based fabrics and creating elevated activewear with thoughtfully selected materials derived from plantsâproving that premium performance doesn't have to depend on plastic-first design. Designed in New York and manufactured in Portugal, P.S. Active brings together better-for-you materials, uncompromising performance, and elevated designâcreating activewear women can feel good about wearing every day.

About Barrett Distribution Centers

Barrett Distribution Centers is a leading third-party logistics (3PL) provider delivering customized warehousing, fulfillment, transportation and value-added logistics solutions for growing brands. With decades of experience managing complex supply chains, Barrett serves apparel, footwear, consumer products and other high-touch industries, helping brands scale efficiently and deliver exceptional customer experiences. Barrett has also been recognized as one of Inc.'s Fastest-Growing Private Companies in America more than 15 times, reflecting its long-term growth and commitment to helping clients succeed. Barrett combines experienced people, flexible operations, advanced technology and a highly customized approach to meet each client's unique needs. From direct-to-consumer and eCommerce fulfillment to retail and omnichannel distribution, Barrett provides the expertise and infrastructure brands need to scale with speed, accuracy and service.

SOURCE Barrett Distribution Centers Inc.

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SHERWOOD, Wis., Oct. 29, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Is it better to install a walk-in shower or tub for seniors? A recent HelloNation article helps answer that question while offering a detailed look at how aging-in-place remodeling in Fox Cities, WI can improve home safety. The article explains that thoughtful updates to bathrooms, entryways, and lighting can help homeowners stay in their homes longer while reducing risks related to aging.

The article focuses on how aging-in-place home remodeling allows people to remain in familiar surroundings even as mobility or balance challenges increase. It emphasizes that the most effective home modifications for aging in place begin with safety. Bathrooms are often the first area addressed, as they present some of the highest risks due to wet surfaces and limited space.

One of the most frequently asked questions in these projects is walk-in shower vs tub for seniors. The article explains that walk-in showers with zero thresholds are often safer and easier to access, especially for those using walkers or chairs. Tubs may still be usable, but they typically require extra safety measures such as grab bars or step-through inserts. These decisions are best made based on the specific needs of the household.

Aging in place safety improvements often include installing slip-resistant flooring and grab bars in key locations. According to the article, these additions provide greater stability without changing the look of the room. Handheld showerheads and built-in seating offer both comfort and ease of use, supporting greater independence while maintaining the feel of a traditional home.

Lighting is another key focus of the article. Poor lighting can increase the chance of falls, especially in stairways, bathrooms, and hallways. The article recommends brighter, evenly distributed lighting throughout the home, along with motion-activated fixtures to help residents move around safely during nighttime hours. These updates are a simple yet impactful part of aging-in-place remodeling in the Fox Cities.

The article also explains that aging-in-place home remodeling doesn't require large structural changes to be effective. Widening doorways or adjusting furniture placement can make a home more accessible for those using mobility aids. Entryways benefit from added railings, better lighting, and non-slip surfaces. In some cases, steps are replaced with ramps or gradual slopes to improve safety without requiring a full renovation.

The article encourages starting with high-risk areas such as bathrooms and entrances, since these often deliver the greatest impact with the least disruption. A phased approach to aging-in-place remodeling helps manage costs while focusing on safety and comfort. This strategy allows homeowners to prioritize updates based on their current needs while preparing for future changes.

Other parts of the home, such as kitchens and flooring throughout the living space, may be addressed over time. Lowering countertop sections, adding easy-to-use hardware, and improving task lighting are simple changes that support independence. The article notes that flooring upgrades to remove trip hazards or secure loose rugs can also make a significant difference.

As highlighted in the article, aging-in-place remodeling in Fox Cities, WI, is most successful when it's personalized. Each home and family has different needs, and the article emphasizes the value of planning ahead. By focusing on home modifications for aging in place that enhance safety and accessibility, homeowners can enjoy their space with greater peace of mind.

The article titled Aging in Place Remodeling in the Fox Cities â Safety Comes First features insights from Troy and Molly Mueller, Remodeling Experts of Sherwood, WI, 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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Shield HealthCare Expands Access to Medical Supplies for Eligible Astiva Health Members in Southern California

LOS ANGELES, Oct. 29, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Shield HealthCare is now fully contracted with Astiva Health in Southern California, expanding access to covered medical supplies and services for eligible members. Through the new agreement, members whose plans include covered supplies can obtain them through Shield HealthCare, subject to individual plan benefits and coverage requirements.

Shield HealthCare provides medical supplies to patients at home and offers billing support to help customers navigate insurance requirements and access eligible products. The agreement broadens access to these services for eligible Astiva Health members.

Astiva Health offers Medicare HMO and Chronic Condition Special Needs Plans (C-SNPs) for eligible Medicare beneficiaries, including those with qualifying chronic conditions.

"We are excited to welcome Astiva Health and its members to Shield HealthCare," said Eric Morrow, Senior Director of Payor Solutions & Market Access. "This relationship advances our commitment to helping individuals receive the products, service and support they need to live confidently and independently."

Under the agreement, all eligible Astiva Health members may receive covered medical supplies through Shield HealthCare. Coverage varies by member and plan, and all orders must meet applicable benefit, eligibility and coverage requirements.

For information about eligibility or ordering, members can call Shield HealthCare at (800) 228-7150 or visit www.shieldhealthcare.com.

About Shield HealthCare

Shield HealthCare is an industry leader in providing medical supplies to patients at home and managing their third-party insurance billing. Contracted payors include Medicare, state Medicaid programs, HMOs and private insurance plans.

About Astiva Health

Astiva Health offers Medicare HMO and HMO C-SNP plans. Enrollment in Astiva Health depends on contract renewal.

SOURCE Shield HealthCare

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NEW CITY, N.Y., Oct. 29, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- How can buyers and sellers make sense of today's shifting real estate market in Rockland County? A new HelloNation article offers a clear and timely explanation of current conditions, helping participants navigate pricing, timing, and strategy in a fast-moving environment.

The article focuses on how home inventory, interest rates, and buyer demand interact to shape the overall real estate market in Rockland County. While inventory remains below historical levels, the article notes that it is slowly increasing, giving buyers more choices. At the same time, homes that are priced appropriately are still selling quickly. The article emphasizes that understanding local trends is key to avoiding missteps in such a dynamic landscape.

One of the main points in the article is the influence of interest rates on buyer behavior. Even small rate changes can impact affordability and shift how quickly buyers are willing to make offers. When rates are low, demand tends to rise, and buyers act more decisively. On the other hand, higher rates may reduce competition and slow sales. The article explains that sellers who watch rate trends can use this knowledge to adjust pricing or listing timing to their advantage.

The HelloNation piece also warns against relying on national headlines alone. Rockland County has unique market conditions that vary by neighborhood. The article points out that some areas are seeing quick home sales with multiple offers, while others experience slower movement. The key for both buyers and sellers is to study local trends and work with professionals who understand how pricing and demand differ from one area to another.

Supply remains a factor as well. According to the article, home inventory affects both urgency and strategy. When inventory is low, well-prepared homes in desirable condition attract fast attention. Properties that need repairs or updates may take longer to sell, even in a high-demand market. Sellers can improve outcomes by addressing minor upgrades and presenting their home well with staging or high-quality photography.

Buyers are also advised to be strategic. The article encourages them to monitor recent sales, understand neighborhood pricing, and act quickly when the right property becomes available. Getting pre-approved and making realistic offers based on comparable data can help buyers compete effectively, especially when buyer demand is strong.

For sellers, the article outlines how timing and preparation make a difference. By understanding seasonal patterns, adjusting to buyer preferences, and pricing based on what similar homes have sold for, sellers can position themselves for faster sales and stronger offers. The article connects successful property pricing with informed decision-making that's based on what's happening right now in Rockland Countyânot just national trends.

The article closes by reinforcing the importance of preparation and local insight. In a changing real estate market, those who track neighborhood dynamics, monitor interest rates, and respond to buyer demand are more likely to reach favorable results with fewer surprises.

"Understanding Today's Real Estate Market in Rockland County" features insights from Margo Bohlin, Real Estate Expert of New City, NY, 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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PITTSBURGH, Oct. 29, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- "I wanted to create a convenient way to help people remain comfortable during changing weather conditions," said an inventor from Canton, Georgia. "This idea could provide added relief during outdoor activities while also offering another useful function."

InventHelp Invention Spotlight: SUPER CHILLERS Could Improve Comfort During Outdoor Activities

- Helps provide relief during hot or cold weather conditions

- Offers added convenience during sports, recreation and other outdoor activities

- Provides a practical way to carry small personal belongings InventHelp Client's Invention for Outdoor Comfort

Individuals who spend extended periods outdoors could experience discomfort when exposed to excessive heat or cold, while carrying small personal belongings may also be inconvenient during physical activities. SUPER CHILLERS would provide a versatile and practical alternative.

Licensing Opportunities for InventHelp 123Invent Client:

- The invention is available for licensing or sale to manufacturers or marketers who may wish to bring it to market.

- For more information, visit www.superchillers.net. Or contact Lawrence Schmidt at 770-572-0304 or email [email protected].

About InventHelp: Empowering Inventors with Tools, Guidance, and Potential Exposure

InventHelp is one of America's leading invention-service companies, helping inventors and entrepreneurs submit invention ideas to companies to attempt to obtain a good faith review.

Since 1984, the company has assisted clients with invention submission, prototype modeling services, invention websites, patent referral services, and more. InventHelp's team attempts to connect inventors with companies looking for new product ideas and provides services on how

to present, promote, and protect inventions. Through its invention services, InventHelp provides confidentiality, step-by-step support, and help to innovators who wish to submit their inventions to industry. To learn more about InventHelp, visit InventHelp.com.

SOURCE InventHelp

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- Editors selected the all-electric Subaru Trailseeker SUV for its versatility, capability and on- and off-road performance

- Up to 281 miles of range available and charging speeds up to 150 kW from a standard NACS charge port

- 2027 Subaru Trailseeker on sale now, starting at $39,995 MSRP

CAMDEN, N.J., Oct. 29, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Subaru of America, Inc. today announced its Subaru Trailseeker was named Car of the Year in the 2027 TopGear.com U.S. Car Awards. Editors at TopGear.com selected the all-electric Subaru Trailseeker SUV from among new or significantly updated contenders from multiple automakers.

"Our Subaru Trailseeker combines the practicality and utility of an SUV with an all-electric powertrain that's not only efficient, but also fun to drive," said Jeff Walters, President and COO, Subaru of America. "It's an honor to be named Car of the Year by the experts at Top Gear."

Editors at Top Gear praised the Subaru Trailseeker's on- and off-road drivability. With a best-in-class 8.5 inches of ground clearance, standard Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, and X-MODE®, the Trailseeker is impressively equipped for off-road adventures. On pavement, with 375 combined horsepower from dual electric motors, a 0-to-60-mph time of 4.4 seconds, and configurable drive modes, the Subaru Trailseeker is equally at ease.

"People still carry a torch for the WRX and its many rally-inspired incarnations, but the heart of Subaru fandom now is its dutiful, rugged, useful wagon â the Trailseeker," said Top Gear U.S. Correspondent Alex Kalogiannis. "Off the beaten path, the set-and-forget X-MODE figures out all the tricky terrain stuff as you trundle through the bush, and with about 8.5 inches of ground clearance, it can scale all but the scariest obstacles in your path. Back in civilization, the Trailseeker is quick, balanced, and even-keeled. Of course, we wouldn't mind if some more of that WRX DNA slipped into the mix, but overall, the pros far outshine the cons."

The 2027 Subaru Trailseeker is on sale now, starting at $39,995 MSRP, and available in three trim levels: Premium, Limited, and Touring. Every Trailseeker is equipped with a 14-inch Subaru Multimedia touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto⢠compatibility, wireless smartphone chargers, and spacious seating for up to five. A standard North American Charging Standard (NACS) charge port supports charging speeds up to 150 kW that can replenish its battery from 10% to 80% in as little as 28 minutes, with range up to 281 miles on a single charge.

For more information about the 2027 Subaru Trailseeker, visit Subaru.com.

About Subaru of America, Inc.

Subaru of America, Inc.â¯(SOA) is an indirect wholly owned subsidiary ofâ¯Subaru Corporationâ¯of Japan. Headquartered in Camden, N.J., the company markets and distributes Subaru vehicles, parts, and accessories through a network of about 640 retailers across the United States. All Subaru products are manufactured in zero-landfill plants, includingâ¯Subaru of Indiana Automotive, Inc., the only U.S. automobile manufacturing plant designated a backyard wildlife habitat by the National Wildlife Federation. SOA is guided by theâ¯Subaru Love Promise®, which is the company's vision to show love and respect to everyone and to support its communities and customers nationwide. Over the past 20 years, SOA and the SOA Foundation have donated more than $357 million to causes that Subaru and its customers care about, and Subaru employees have logged more than 130,000 volunteer hours. Through these actions and more, Subaru is dedicated to being More Than a Car Company® and to making the world a better place.

For additional information, visitâ¯media.subaru.com.

Follow us onâ¯Facebook,â¯Instagram,â¯LinkedIn,â¯TikTok, andâ¯YouTube.

Aaron Cole

Product Communications Manager

856.488.3697

[email protected]

Miranda Jimenez

Product Communications Specialist

856.438.2820

[email protected]

Karley Dowdy

Product Communications Specialist

856.438.2820

[email protected]

SOURCE Subaru of America, Inc.

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Energy Corps Announces Four-Year, $4 Million Partnership with Mercuria, Immediately Funding Five Energy Projects

PITTSBURGH and GENEVA, Oct. 29, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Energy Corps, a U.S.-based nonprofit accelerating global access to affordable, reliable energy, today announced a four-year, large-scale partnership with Mercuria Energy Group, one of the world's leading independent energy and commodity groups. The partnership will fund locally-led projects that expand energy access and strengthen the systems needed for those projects to endure and scale.

Mercuria connects markets and advances the energy transition by combining capital, market knowledge, and operational expertise. Its commitment provides Energy Corps with four years of stable funding to expand its grantmaking, learn from projects in varied settings, and share evidence about what helps modern energy systems grow. The partnership also brings Mercuria's technical expertise, global network, and commitment to community engagement to Energy Corps' locally-led, energy-agnostic approach.

In 2026, Mercuria's support will enable Energy Corps to fund five projects serving communities in Bangladesh, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Panama, and Zambia.

"Mercuria's business is keeping energy flowing to the markets that depend on it and providing the capital solutions that help them grow. This long-term partnership with Energy Corps brings that same expertise and capital to locally-led projects designed to expand reliable energy access and the economic opportunity it enables," said Brian Falik, Chief Investment Officer at Mercuria. "We look forward to learning from these projects and working together to enable these important initiatives to reach greater scale."

"Energy Corps' mission is achievable because great companies choose to lead with both expertise and heart," said Toby Rice, founder of Energy Corps. "Organizations with a deep sense of purpose make possible everything we do, and we're proud to welcome Mercuria as a partner."

The five grants support an off-grid fishing community in Bangladesh, line workers building and maintaining the electric grid in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Indigenous communities in Panama, and two projects in Zambia focused on investment readiness and clean water. Each project responds to the needs and conditions of the community it serves.

"Our grantees are tackling key barriers to truly sustainable energy access: worker safety, productive use, reliable power, and investment readiness," said Tisha Schuller, Head of Energy Corps. "Mercuria's support gives us a strong runway to test these approaches, measure results, and help the most successful models scale."

Five New Energy Access Grants

Supporting fishing livelihoods in coastal Bangladesh

Fishing is the primary livelihood along Bangladesh's coast, but the economy is constrained by the isolated location of remote islands and the absence of reliable and affordable electricity. Dwip Unnayan Songstha (Island Development Association), with technical support from Pathway2050, will build a solar-powered community center including cold storage, ice making, a fish-drying facility, and space for grading and quality control, while providing power to nearby businesses and households through a local tariff model. Paired with training and microfinance for women and vulnerable groups, the project aims to cut post-harvest losses, improve quality and market access, and raise incomes for fishing families.

Building systems to protect line workers in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

As electrification expands across the Democratic Republic of the Congo, so do the risks facing the line workers who build and maintain power infrastructure. NRECA International, the international arm of America's electric cooperatives, will work with local partners to strengthen electrical safety practices through targeted training and practical tools tailored to local needs. The effort will help reduce accidents, build local capacity, and create a foundation for stronger safety practices.

Bringing reliable solar power to Indigenous communities in Panama

Many Indigenous communities in the Ngäbe-Buglé Comarca in Panama don't have access to the electrical grid. To bring this essential service to households, acciona.org in Panama will install home-based photovoltaic systems to provide a reliable power supply for lighting, as well as for communication, health care, education, and work-related needs. The project will enable agricultural processing for the local cooperative and provide internet access for the local community center to support education and commercial priorities.

Preparing distributed energy projects for investment in Zambia

Distributed energy can reach underserved communities faster than traditional grid extension, but promising projects often stall before they are ready for investment. RMI will work with Zambian energy sector partners and utilities to prepare up to two distributed energy resource projects for financing and implementation. Through customer studies, system design, financial modeling, and investor preparation, RMI aims to bring the projects to a bankable, implementation-ready stage and develop a replicable framework for scaling distributed energy investment in Zambia.

Providing solar-powered clean water in Kaude Village, Zambia

In rural communities in Zambia, thousands of people rely on unsafe water sources that put them at risk of waterborne diseases and don't meet needs for cooking, washing, and growing food. Innovation: Africa will install a solar-powered water system in Kaude Village, Zambia, to bring safe water to taps throughout the community. The proven model provides community skills training and remote monitoring, supporting long-term operation. This initiative builds on Energy Corps' initial investment in Innovation: Africa's project in Chakumba, Zambia, where more than 3,000 community members gained access to safe water and no longer needed to make a daily 10-kilometer trip to an unsafe water source.

Mobilizing the Energy Sector

"Our partnerships with Mercuria and our grantees reflect our conviction that expanding access to modern energy requires the energy sector's capital, expertise, and sustained engagement," said Tisha Schuller. "Energy Corps brings the industry's resources together with evidence-backed philanthropy, governments, and local leaders to accelerate progress."

Energy Corps invites energy companies, philanthropists, policymakers, global development institutions, and local leaders to share this announcement with their networks and collaborate on practical pathways from energy poverty to energy prosperity. Industry leaders interested in becoming funding partners may contact [email protected] to arrange a conversation.

Learn more about Energy Corps' approach and grantees at energycorps.com.

Media Contact: Eliza Keller; 857-209-4180

Media inquiries: [email protected]

Funding partnerships: [email protected]

About Energy Corps

Energy Corps is a U.S.-based nonprofit organization accelerating global access to affordable, reliable energy. Guided by three catalytic pathwaysâunlocking policy and regulatory bottlenecks, attracting large-scale finance, and creating virtuous demand cyclesâand its long-term 50-50-50 ambition of 50 megawatt-hours of reliable energy per person per year, $50,000 GDP per capita globally, and 50 years to maximize modern energy access, Energy Corps works with partners worldwide to test, learn, and share what enables modern energy to drive opportunity and prosperity. www.energycorps.com.

About Mercuria Energy Group

Mercuria Energy Group is one of the world's largest independent energy and commodities groups. Founded in Geneva, Switzerland, Mercuria operates globally across the energy value chain, including crude oil and refined products, natural gas and LNG, power, renewable energy, metals, and carbon markets. The company is recognized for its strong focus on risk management, compliance, and operational excellence, as well as its investment in energy solutions that support global energy security and the energy transition. Mercuria supports communities connected to its business through projects focused on health, education, equality, livelihoods, and resilience. www.mercuria.com.

SOURCE Energy Corps

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