"Arena": Mobilität - ein Thema, das alle bewegt

Publikumsdialog mit Verkehrsminister Steffen Bilger

München (ots)

Am Montag, 9. November um 21:00 Uhr live in der ARD

Hohe Preise an der Zapfsäule; Staus und Dauerbaustellen; eine Bahn, die ihre Fahrgäste immer wieder im Stich lässt; junge Menschen, die sich den Führerschein nicht leisten können. Und eine Infrastruktur, die nicht auf der Höhe der Zeit ist. Wie wird Deutschland wieder flott?

Die ARD-Townhall-Sendung "Arena" widmet sich einem Thema, das wirklich alle bewegt: Verkehr und Mobilität. Der neue Bundesverkehrsminister Steffen Bilger (CDU) stellt sich den Fragen der Bürgerinnen und Bürger. Sie berichten von ihren Erfahrungen, konfrontieren den Minister mit ihren Problemen und wollen wissen, welche Lösungen er anzubieten hat. Die "Arena" wird moderiert von Jessy Wellmer und Louis Klamroth.

Redaktion: Torsten Beermann

Pressekontakt:

Dr. Lars Jacob,

ARD-Programmdirektion, Kommunikation | PR

Tel.: 089/558944-898

E-Mail: lars.jacob@ard.de

Katrin Römer

WDR Kommunikation

Tel.: 0221/220 7100

E-Mail: katrin.roemer@wdr.de

Original-Content von: ARD Das Erste, übermittelt durch news aktuell

THE RK GROUP MARKS 80 YEARS OF HOSPITALITY AND EVENT SERVICE

The company will honor its eight-decade legacy through a year-long series of community service and giveback initiatives.

SAN ANTONIO, Oct. 28, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The RK Group (RKG), a global hospitality leader with 15+ integrated brands, announces its historic anniversary of 80 years of event service that began on November 11, 1946, and now extends nationwide and to select global markets. With the introduction of its catering program in an era that previously did not have this type of service available, RKG remains the oldest, privately owned hospitality enterprise to offer a collaborative suite of capabilities under its umbrella business model.

The milestone anniversary was preceded by the unveiling of The Rosemary Museum at the San Antonio headquarters. Fully executed in-house, including custom fabrications, displays, and prints, the exhibit honors late founder Rosemary Kowalski (1924â2024) through rich imagery, mementos, and an interactive digital avatar. The tech-forward experience bridges the company's storied history with the innovative capabilities being carried on by successive generations of the Kowalski family.

CEO and President Greg Kowalski has led RKG's development operations since 1993 following his term as General Manager of Food and Beverage Operations at the Henry B. González Convention Center, San Antonio. He noted, "I literally grew up in this business that started in a very modest neighborhood diner on the city's West Side. I was present for so many of our company's decisions and, as my role changed over time, I initiated many of these efforts. But even being at the forefront of our growth, I still marvel at the scope of what we have achieved that has taken us into more venues and settings across the country and across the world."

The RK Group now numbers over 1,100 team members among its locations that include the sprawling San Antonio campus, as well as offices in Austin and Dallas, TX; Phoenix, AZ; Louisville, KY; Memphis, TN; and Seattle, WA. These operations offer specialized services in event production, catering, contingency mobile programs, temporary structures, large-scale fabrication and experiential design services, and more.

Through the business's unique design, clients can access any or all of its services, supported by RKG's company-owned inventory and in-house capabilities. "With eight decades of forging relationships that support our own activities, The RK Group also has helped foster the operations of many small businesses in the markets we serve," noted Greg Kowalski. "I am immensely proud to know that we played a role in seeing these partners continue to grow their own presence over the years and contribute to the local economies through their success."

In San Antonio, RKG has made a significant impact in the city's tourism and hospitality sector. As the exclusive catering and concessions provider at the Henry B. González Convention Center since 1971, the company first elevated the concept of convention center food to restaurant-quality levels that have continued to reflect the diverse tastes of clients and their guests. This means including many products unique to the community as well as national brands to combine both familiarity and authenticity in every event service. This same approach has been replicated in the company's additional markets at other venues such as the Renasant Convention Center and Cannon Center for the Performing Arts in Memphis, and the Kentucky Derby Museum in Louisville.

With the third generation of the Kowalski family holding key positions responsible for the company's critical administration and strategic planning endeavors, supported by a long-tenured leadership team, the business remains actively poised for additional innovative programming.

"Our company was founded on providing the most personal service. That may sound quite simple, but over these last 80 years it has become a tangible and rare asset to find in a commercial entity. I am certain that The RK Group will continue to set the standard for exceptional hospitality services by doing what we do bestâexceeding the expectations of our clients in order for their events to be a memorable success. It's not about us; it's about making sure we do whatever we can on every level to please every guest and visitor. From our perspective, that's what defines great hospitality."

ABOUT THE RK GROUP

A recognized leader in catering and convention services, hospitality design, venue management, and more, The RK Group has an 80-year legacy as a family owned and -operated business with 15+ integrated specialty brands. Collaboratively, the company provides a one-stop, hospitality solution worldwide, with chef-driven culinary programs, in-house experiential design capabilities, and industry-acclaimed service for thousands of events each year. Learn more at therkgroup.com

For additional information about The Rosemary Museum and to schedule a tour, visit therkgroup.com/rosemary-museum

SOURCE The RK Group

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CHARLOTTE, N.C., Oct. 28, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Aberdeen Carolina & Western Railway (ACWR) is pleased to announce that it has been awarded a $19.9 million federal grant through the U.S. Department of Transportation's Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) Program.

The project will modernize the existing rail that was laid in the early to mid 1900s with approximately 30 miles of continuous welded rail in Montgomery and Stanly counties. "A healthy rail network is critical to take freight off of our nation's highways, and we thank the FRA and USDOT for supporting projects like ours" said Anthony Menzies, CEO of ACWR. The grant will support a total investment of $41 million in rail infrastructure investments of which ACWR and NCDOT will contribute 52% of non-federal match.

ACWR received support from Senator Ted Budd, Senator Thom Tillis, Congressman Mark Harris, Congressman Richard Hudson, Congresswoman Alma Adams, and Congressman Brad Knott, as well as freight customers and state and local officials.

Senator Budd said "I am glad that Aberdeen Carolina & Western Railway has received funding from the Department of Transportation under the Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) grant program. Upgrading North Carolina's rail infrastructure to handle heavier loads and increasing speed will ensure products can come and go quicker and more efficiently, helping our state continue to drive our nation's economy forward."

The ACWR's largest customers include Perdue and Mountaire Farms which feed over eight million chickens per day and support over 150,000 jobs. Additionally, Charlotte Pipe recently relocated its pipe foundry from downtown Charlotte to Stanly County along the ACWR rail line, resulting in nearly half a billion-dollar investment. Congressman Mark Harris (NC-08) said "modernizing our rail infrastructure in Stanly and Montgomery counties will improve safety, strengthen freight transportation, and support the businesses that drive our local economy. I was proud to support this project because a safe, reliable rail network is essential to ensuring south-central North Carolina remains economically strong and competitive for years to come. This nearly $20 million federal investment is a major win for North Carolina's 8th District."

The application also demonstrated the strength of the ongoing public-private partnership between ACWR and the NCDOT Rail Division, which played a critical role in the grant development process. "We're proud to support our short line partners as they improve rail connections for North Carolina businesses," said Jason Orthner, NCDOT Rail Division Director. "Investments like this help local industries move goods more efficiently and position communities for continued economic growth."

SOURCE Aberdeen Carolina & Western Railway

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Winncom Technologies Announces Strategic Distribution Partnership with Alta Labs

Partnership Expands Access to Innovative Wired and Wireless Networking Solutions Across North America

SOLON, Ohio, Oct. 28, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Winncom Technologies, a global distributor of wireless broadband, networking, and telecommunications solutions, today announced a new distribution partnership with Alta Labs, a provider of innovative wired and wireless networking solutions designed to simplify deployment and network management.

Through this partnership, Winncom will expand its portfolio with Alta Labs' comprehensive range of networking products, including wireless access points, managed switches, routers, and centralized network management solutions. The addition strengthens Winncom's ability to deliver flexible, high-performance networking technologies to service providers, enterprises, integrators, and other organizations seeking reliable and scalable connectivity solutions.

Alta Labs combines purpose-built networking hardware with its intuitive Alta Control management platform, enabling users to monitor, configure, and manage network devices across multiple sites. With a focus on streamlined deployment, simplified administration, and feature-rich networking capabilities, Alta Labs offers solutions designed to meet evolving connectivity demands.

"We're excited to welcome Alta Labs to the Winncom Technologies portfolio," said Igor Kurochkin, VP Global Vendor Management & Marketing at Winncom Technologies. "Their innovative approach to networking and simplified management aligns with our commitment to bringing customers access to the latest technologies from leading manufacturers. This partnership expands the solutions we can offer our customers and creates new opportunities to help them build, manage, and grow their networks."

"The Alta Labs team is thrilled to announce our distribution partnership with Winncom Technologies, expanding the availability and delivery of our powerful, user-friendly wired and wireless networking solutions to a wider audience", states Alta Labs CEO, Chase Harrison. "Alta Labs prides itself on being easy to use and easy to work with. This partnership further cements these values while also ensuring our products are easier than ever to acquire."

The partnership reflects both companies' commitment to expanding access to modern networking technologies and supporting customers as their connectivity requirements evolve. By combining Alta Labs' product portfolio with Winncom's distribution capabilities, technical expertise, and customer-focused approach, the companies look forward to building a strong, long-term relationship and creating new opportunities for growth.

Alta Labs products are now available through Winncom Technologies. Customers interested in learning more about the portfolio, identifying solutions for their networking requirements, or to request pricing are encouraged to contact their Winncom representative.

About Winncom Technologies

Winncom Technologies is a global distributor of wireless broadband, networking, and telecommunications solutions, connecting customers with leading technology manufacturers and comprehensive solutions for a wide range of network applications. Through an extensive product portfolio, technical expertise, and customer-focused service, Winncom helps organizations design, deploy, and optimize reliable, scalable connectivity solutions.

For more information, visit www.winncom.com.

About Alta Labs

Alta Labs develops wired and wireless networking solutions designed to deliver performance, flexibility, and simplified network management. Its portfolio includes wireless access points, managed switches, routers, and the Alta Control network management platform, serving a range of networking applications.

For more information, visit https://alta.inc/.

Media Contact:

Winncom Technologies

[email protected]

(440) 498-9510

www.winncom.com

SOURCE Winncom Technologies, Corp

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DELTEC HOMES LAUNCHES 360° ELEMENTS: A NEW WAY TO BUILD HURRICANE READY ROUND HOMES

Five predesigned models bring flexible floor plans to the panoramic views, natural light, and hurricane resistance Deltec is known for

ASHEVILLE, N.C., Oct. 28, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Deltec Homes, a leader in hurricane-resistant round home design, today introduced 360° Elements, a new line of five predesigned homes that pairs the company's distinctive round living spaces with rectangular wings that offer more traditional room layouts.

Inspired by one of Deltec's most requested custom home styles, 360° Elements brings more flexible floor plans to round living. Like Deltec's best-selling 360° Signature line, 360° Elements offers a simpler, faster, and more cost-effective path to a hurricane-resilient home than a fully custom design.

At the heart of each 360° Elements home is an open, light-filled round living space, where vaulted ceilings and windows following the curve bring the surrounding landscape into everyday life. Rectangular wings add space and flexibility for the way each homeowner lives.

"People are drawn to Deltec homes not just for their resilience, but for how they feelâthe light, the openness, and the way the views become part of everyday life," said Meg Gore, CEO of Deltec Homes. "With 360° Elements, we're making that experience work for even more people. The wings give homeowners additional flexibility for the spaces they use every day, while the round living area remains at the heart of the home."

More ways to make round living your own

The five modelsâMesa, Grove, Summit, Headland, and Crestâoffer a range of floor plans, with options for entries, private suites, extra bedrooms, and attached garages.

360° Elements builds on Deltec's decades of high-wind experience. Each home combines Deltec's radial structural system in the round living space with high-strength materials and strong connections. Deltec homes have endured direct hits from some of the most destructive hurricanes on record, including Andrew, Katrina, Michael, Dorian, and Ian. In fact, Deltec round homes built over the last 30 years have a documented 99.9% survival rate. In 2024, Hurricane Helene devastated Deltec's hometown of Asheville, demonstrating that hurricane impacts can reach far inlandâeven into mountain communities.

The standard 360° Elements structural shell is designed for wind speeds up to 130 mph, with upgrades available up to 190 mph, depending on the design and location. Manufactured in Asheville using Deltec's panelized building system, 360° Elements homes are designed for energy efficiency as well as strength. 360° Elements is available in all 50 states and the Caribbean. To explore the models and floor plans, visit deltechomes.com/360-elements.

Launch celebration: Savings up to $30,000

To celebrate the launch, Deltec is offering savings of up to $30,000 on new home packages. Place a deposit by November 26, 2026. Restrictions apply; see full offer details at deltechomes.com/offer-elements-launch-promo.

About Deltec Homes

Founded in 1968, Deltec Homes is a family-owned Certified B Corporation based in Asheville, North Carolina. Known for panoramic views, structural strength, and energy efficiency, Deltec homes have been built in all 50 states and more than 30 countries. To learn more, visit deltechomes.com or call 800-642-2508.

Media contact:

Lainey Sherwood

[email protected]

828.253.0483

SOURCE DELTEC HOMES INC.

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Dallas-Fort Worth Entrepreneurs Invest in Locally Owned MetroScape Landscape

Dr. Marc Nickell and Chris Brewer bring hands-on leadership, a commitment to exceptional customer experiences and a renewed investment in the North Texas communities they call home.

DALLAS, Oct. 28, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- For local entrepreneurs Dr. Marc Nickell and Chris Brewer, acquiring MetroScape Landscape was about more than buying a business. It was an opportunity to invest directly in the people, properties and communities that make DallasâFort Worth home.

The partners acquired MetroScape in March 2026, building on the commercial landscaping company's North Texas roots dating back to 1990. Based in Irving, MetroScape provides commercial landscape maintenance, irrigation management and landscape enhancements throughout DFW.

Their investment reflects a simple philosophy: Environment Matters.

"Think about the places we experience every day," Nickell said. "The apartment community where a family comes home. The office where someone spends most of their day. Those environments shape how we experience our communities. We believe they deserve to be cared for by people who genuinely care about the outcome."

Local ownership, personal accountability

Nickell and Brewer previously led Rocket Station, a business services company. They now bring their entrepreneurial and operational experience to an industry increasingly attracting national operators and institutional investors.

Their approach is deliberately local: hands-on ownership, direct accountability and meaningful relationships with the people and properties MetroScape serves.

"We're not managing Dallas from a corporate office somewhere else," Brewer said. "Our employees are here. Our customers are here. When something needs attention, we can go see it ourselves. That's the accountability property owners and managers deserve."

The partners are investing in employees, technology, and operational systems, with particular emphasis on improving the customer experience.

Environment Matters

MetroScape's philosophy extends beyond maintaining attractive landscapes. It reflects a commitment to protecting property investments and caring for the environments where North Texans live, work and gather.

"There's something especially meaningful about taking what we've learned building businesses and investing it right here at home," Dr. Nickell said. "We're raising our families here. We care about this community and what it becomes. This is our home, and we want to do our part to take care of it."

About MetroScape Landscape

Founded in 1990, MetroScape Landscape is a locally owned commercial landscape management company headquartered in Irving, Texas. The company serves office, multifamily, retail and other commercial properties throughout DallasâFort Worth.

Learn more at www.metroscapetx.com.

Media Contact: [email protected]

SOURCE MetroScape Landscape

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Florida home services leader joins statewide effort to help families put Thanksgiving meals on the table

ORLANDO, Fla., Oct. 28, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Del-Air Plumbing, Air Conditioning & Electric is continuing its commitment to giving back across Florida communities as the presenting sponsor of The JOY FM's annual T-Shirts for Turkeys food drive, helping provide Thanksgiving meals to families facing food insecurity.

The partnership builds on Del-Air's longstanding commitment to supporting the communities where its employees live and work. In 2025, Del-Air became the first presenting sponsor in the 21-year history of T-Shirts for Turkeys, bringing its team and resources behind one of The JOY FM's longstanding community initiatives.

"At Del-Air, we believe comfort extends beyond the home to the communities we serve," said Nicole Lemieux, Chief Human Resource Officer for Del-Air. "It means being there for families when they need a little extra support. We're proud to continue our partnership with The JOY FM and help make Thanksgiving a little brighter for families across Florida."

T-Shirts for Turkeys brings together The JOY FM listeners, community organizations and business partners to collect turkeys and monetary or grocery gift card donations that help local families enjoy a Thanksgiving meal. The JOY FM has a broad Florida footprint, with coverage spanning Orlando, Tampa Bay, Jacksonville, Sarasota and Jacksonville, among others.

Employees across the company will be participating in the event this year. Del-Air views employee involvement as an important part of its broader commitment to community service.

"Our employees are our connection to these communities," Lemieux said. "They live here, raise their families here and serve homeowners throughout Florida every day. Giving back together is one of the ways we can make a meaningful difference beyond the services we provide."

The partnership also reflects Del-Air's broader history of supporting local food initiatives. The company and its employees have previously donated more than 10 tons of food in partnership with the Southeastern Food Bank, according to the company.

How to Participate

The JOY FM encourages listeners to support T-Shirts for Turkeys through its designated donation opportunities. Donations help provide turkeys and Thanksgiving food to families throughout the communities served by the food drive.

For information about T-Shirts for Turkeys and how to participate, visit The JOY FM. To learn more about Del-Air's heating, air conditioning, plumbing and electrical services, visit Del-Air's website.

About Del-Air Plumbing, Air Conditioning & Electric

Since 1983, Del-Air has served Florida residents, businesses and homebuilders with air conditioning, heating, plumbing and electrical products and services. The company provides residential comfort and home services across communities throughout Florida, with a focus on helping homeowners stay comfortable year-round. Del-Air is majority owned by Astara Capital Partners.

About Astara Capital Partners

Astara Capital Partners is an integrated team of investors and operators investing in the middle market. The firm brings capital, strategic and operational resources to its investments to build sustainable value and position them for long-term success. Astara focuses on a variety of industrial and services sectors, including building products, food, packaging, residential services, IT services, aerospace and defense, and government services.

For media inquiries, reach out to Shannon Pecca at

[email protected]

SOURCE Del-Air Heating, Air Conditioning, Plumbing and Electric

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First Exosome Serum to Earn the EWG VERIFIED® Mark Combines Marine Spicules, Exosomes and PDRN to Deliver Visibly Smoother, Firmer Skin for a Glass-Like Glow in 28 days

MIAMI, Oct. 28, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Shaklee®, a pioneer in science-backed wellness and longevity, today announced the launch of YOUTH® Exosome Bio-Signal Serum, a breakthrough addition to its anti-aging portfolio. The serum brings together three advanced skincare technologies, each inspired by a popular med-spa treatment, to support the skin's natural renewal process. Skin looks and feels noticeably smoother after first use, with a glass-like glow over 28 days.

The Next Frontier of Skincare: Skin Longevity

Consumers are increasingly looking beyond traditional anti-aging skincare, seeking solutions that not only address visible signs of aging but also support the look of skin's long-term health, resilience, and natural renewal* processes.

Shaklee's new YOUTH Exosome Bio-Signal Serum does just that, by supporting the communication and renewal processes that help skin look its best, through three synergetic technologies:

- Marine Spicules: Microscopic structures that create microchannels to support skin surface renewal* and enhance ingredient delivery.

- Exosomes: Innovative probiotic-derived bio-signaling ingredients designed to support cellular* communication and the skin's natural renewal* processes.

- PDRN: A rice-derived ingredient that supports hydration, recovery, and healthy-looking skin barrier function.

"The conversation around aging is evolving. It's no longer just about looking younger, but about helping our bodies and skin look and feel at their best and for longer," said Roger Barnett, Chairman and CEO of Shaklee. "We believe the future of skincare lies in the ability to upgrade one's biology by supporting the skin's inherent renewal, regenerative and restorative processes*. With Exosome Bio-Signal Serum, we're bringing that philosophy to life through breakthrough science."

Clinically Tested, Visually Transformative

Designed to help unlock the skin's natural renewal* potential, YOUTH Exosome Bio-Signal Serum delivers visible improvements in the key characteristics of youthful-looking skin, from smoother skin texture and improved firmness to enhanced radiance and hydration.

In a 28-day clinical trial, the serum demonstrated measurable improvements across multiple visible signs of skin aging, including:â

- 91% had smoother-looking skin

- 4 out of 5 participants had firmer, more elastic skin, improved moisture retention, and a stronger skin barrier

- 37% average reduction in pore size

In a separate 28-day consumer perception study involving 23 people, 75% of participants said their skin felt refreshed and healthier immediately after the first application, while 100% of participants saw an improvement in their skin's overall appearance after 14 days.

A New Standard of Trust

As exosomes emerge as one of the most talked-about ingredients in skincare, questions around ingredient safety and transparency are more important than ever. YOUTH Exosome Bio-Signal Serum is the first exosome serum to earn the EWG VERIFIED® mark, setting a new standard in this rapidly growing category. This highly regarded third-party verification recognizes products that meet EWG's rigorous standards for ingredient safety, transparency, and formulation, giving consumers greater confidence in what they're putting on their skin.

YOUTH Exosome Bio-Signal Serum launches October 28, 2026, and is available at Shaklee.com for $89.15.

*On skin's surface

â Based on a 28-day clinical study of 23 women, ages 29 to 58, using the product once nightly.

About Shaklee

Shaklee is a leading wellness and longevity company founded by Dr. Shaklee, who invented the first multivitamin in North America more than 100 years ago. Today, Shaklee is redefining what's possible for human health through Live Age Freeâ¢âa movement to influence biological age by combining scientific innovation, clinically validated solutions, and a vibrant community of wellness ambassadors. Backed by over 120 clinical studies, Shaklee empowers people to look, feel, and live younger longer. As a pioneer in sustainability, Shaklee was the first company in the world to be climate neutral, and today our mission is carried forward by more than 2 million members and Ambassadors in North America, Australia, New Zealand and Asia.

For more information, visit Shaklee.com, follow @shakleehq on Instagram, or like us on Facebook.

SOURCE SHAKLEE CORPORATION

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Grant supports specialty behavioral health care access and strengthens one of Northern California's most important pediatric safety-net resources.

- Grant for $15 million will create new access to critical inpatient mental health services for children and teens across Northern California.

- New behavioral health wing will include 20 private inpatient psychiatric rooms, serving approximately 700 patients annually.

- Investment reflects Kaiser Permanente's commitment to supporting the full continuum of mental health care through education, partnership, philanthropy, and community-based solutions.

OAKLAND, Calif., Oct. 28, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- A $15-million charitable grant from Kaiser Permanente will help UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital Oakland add 20 private inpatient behavioral health rooms, and will expand access to care for young people across Northern California by providing specialized mental health care to approximately 700 children and adolescents each year.

The funding will support construction of a 21,300-square-foot behavioral health wing as part of the hospital's modernization project. The project includes creating inpatient behavioral health treatment capacity for the first time, building an outdoor therapy space, and adding a therapeutic roof garden designed to support healing and recovery.

The investment will strengthen one of Northern California's leading pediatric safety-net resources amid growing demand for mental health care.

The new behavioral health wing will have the facility's first dedicated acute psychiatric beds, creating access to critical treatment closer to home. UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital Oakland serves children and families from throughout Northern California, regardless of ability to pay. It also provides specialized pediatric services that many community hospitals cannot offer.

"Oakland has been home to Kaiser Permanente for more than 80 years, and we have seen firsthand the extraordinary impact UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital Oakland has on children and families across Northern California," said Mike Bowers, regional president for Kaiser Permanente in Northern California. "Kaiser Permanente recognizes that improving the health and well-being of the communities we serve requires investing in the broader health care ecosystem. We're proud to support this investment in mental health, strengthening the region's overall behavioral health care capacity."

Youth mental health care is one of the most pressing health challenges facing families and communities across the U.S. and is consistently identified as a priority need through Kaiser Permanente's Community Health Needs Assessment process. Investing in youth behavioral health aligns with Kaiser Permanente's broader efforts to strengthen mental health support available to young people, from prevention and early intervention to acute care.

"Across the country, our communities are saying the same thing: Behavioral health care, particularly for children, is among the most urgent unmet health needs they face," said Bechara Choucair, MD, executive vice president and chief health officer for Kaiser Permanente. "This grant reflects our commitment to listening and responding with meaningful action. UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital Oakland plays a critical role in caring for children with complex medical and behavioral health needs, including children from underserved communities. Helping build the facility's capacity improves the broader system of care while strengthening a trusted community institution that has served families for generations."

Among California's few acute care pediatric hospitals with a level 1 trauma center, UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital Oakland opened in 1914, and consistently ranks among the top children's hospitals in the nation. The new behavioral health wing is expected to open in 2031.

"Kaiser Permanente's extraordinary $15-million commitment is a meaningful investment in the health and well-being of children and families across Northern California and a powerful vote of confidence in UCSF's vision for the future of children's health," said UCSF Chancellor Sam Hawgood. "We are deeply grateful for their generous partnership and leadership in helping us expand vital behavioral health services for the communities we serve."

"We're incredibly grateful to Kaiser Permanente for helping us tackle one of the most urgent challenges facing children and families today," said Nicholas Holmes, MD, president of UCSF Benioff Children's Hospitals. "When a young person is in a mental health crisis, their family shouldn't have to struggle to find the right care close to home. This generous investment will help us provide more children and adolescents from across Northern California with the specialized, compassionate care they need right here in Oakland."

Kaiser Permanente is investing in behavioral health at every stage, from helping people before problems become serious to providing community support and specialized care. When these approaches work together and across communities, the impact can make a difference for more people. Other Kaiser Permanente initiatives to support mental health include:

- Peer support services through the Youth Mental Health Corps

- Kaiser Permanente Mental Health Career Accelerator

- Kaiser Permanente Mental Health Scholars Academy

- Kaiser Permanente Mental Health Training Program

- Kaiser Permanente Behavioral Health Training Institute

About Kaiser Permanente

Kaiser Permanente is committed to helping shape the future of health care. We are recognized as one of America's leading health care providers and not-for-profit health plans. Founded in 1945, Kaiser Permanente has a mission to provide high-quality, affordable health care services and to improve the health of our members and the communities we serve. We currently serve 12.9 million members in 9 states and the District of Columbia. Care for members and patients is focused on their total health and guided by their personal Permanente Medical Group physicians, specialists, and team of caregivers. Our expert and caring medical teams are empowered and supported by industry-leading technology advances and tools for health promotion, disease prevention, state-of-the-art care delivery, and world-class chronic disease management. Kaiser Permanente is dedicated to care innovations, clinical research, health education, and the support of community health. For more information, go to about.kp.org.

For more information, contact:

[email protected]

SOURCE Kaiser Permanente

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NAPA, Calif., Oct. 28, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- AM Best has upgraded The Doctors Company's financial strength rating (FSR) to A+ (Superior) from A (Excellent) and the long-term issuer credit rating (ICR) to "aa-" (Superior) from "a+" (Excellent). The outlook of these ratings is stable. The FSR of A+, long-term ICR of "aa-", and stable outlook have been affirmed for The Doctors Company, an Interinsurance Exchange, and the following subsidiaries, which are part of The Doctors Company Insurance Group (TDC or TDC Group):

- The Doctors Company, An Interinsurance Exchange

- TDC National Assurance Company

- TDC Specialty Insurance Company

- TDC Special Risks Insurance Company

- The Doctors Company Risk Retention Group, a Reciprocal Exchange

- Hospitals Insurance Company, Inc.

The FSR of A+ is assigned only to select companies with superior ability to meet ongoing insurance obligations. The "aa-" ICR is assigned to entities that have a superior ability to meet their ongoing senior financial obligations. These ratings reflect The Doctors Company's balance sheet strength, which AM Best assesses as strongest, as well as its adequate operating performance, favorable business profile, and appropriate enterprise risk management.

The acquisition of ProAssurance Corporation (PRA) has further solidified The Doctors Company's strong market position. AM Best recognizes the company's expanded scale and diversified portfolio, as well as its continued financial strength and stability.

"These ratings from AM Best reflect the solid financial position of our companies," said Marco Vanderlaan, Chief Financial Officer, The Doctors Company and TDC Group. "Our recent acquisition of ProAssurance allows us to help even more healthcare professionals meet the challenges of a constantly shifting landscape."

The FSR of the PRA subsidiaries rated by AM Best acquired in connection with the above-noted PRA transaction remain unchanged at A (Excellent) with a stable outlook.

About The Doctors Company⯠

Founded and led by physicians, The Doctors Company (thedoctors.com) is relentlessly committed to advancing, protecting, and rewarding the practice of good medicine. The Doctors Company helps hospitals and practices of all sizes manage the complexities of today's healthcare environmentâwith expert guidance, resources, and coverageâand is the only medical malpractice insurer with an advocacy program covering all 50 states and the federal level. The Doctors Company is part of TDC Group (tdcg.com), the nation's largest physician-owned provider of insurance and risk management solutions.â¯TDC Group serves the full continuum of care, from individual clinicians to academic medical systemsâmore than 200,000â¯healthcare professionals and organizations nationwideâwith direct written premium of over $2.5 billion and $12 billion in assets. To learn more about our data-driven insights and to stay up to date on industry trends, follow and subscribe to The Doctors Company on X (@doctorscompany),â¯YouTube,â¯LinkedIn, andâ¯Facebook.⯠

SOURCE The Doctors Company

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