Casino Introduces 20 Wheel of Fortune Slots Games with Jackpots Resetting as High as $1.125 Million

LAS VEGAS, Nov. 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- IGT and MGM Springfield announced today the launch of the first wide-area progressive ("WAP") slots games in Massachusetts.

Famous for awarding life-changing jackpots, WAP games are part of a network of connected slots with a jackpot liquidity pool that grows as more people play the games. To celebrate this milestone, MGM Springfield created a dedicated Wheel of Fortune Slots Zone, a vibrant space featuring 20 high-performing WAP games from IGT's iconic Wheel of Fortune slots portfolio.

"MGM Springfield is excited to continue our tradition of 'firsts,' by becoming the first casino in Massachusetts to offer players the chance to win life-changing jackpots on IGT's Wheel of Fortune slots games," said Ariam Aponte, MGM Springfield Vice President of Casino Operations. "Our recently opened Wheel of Fortune Zone differentiates MGM Springfield, features an exciting mix of slots experiences and offers jackpot opportunities that are new to players in Massachusetts."

The Wheel of Fortune Slots Zone at MGM Springfield features new and proven games on a range of IGT's latest cabinets. These games will have progressive jackpot reset values ranging from $200,000 to $1.125 million. Highlights include: Wheel of Fortune Big Money on the Wheel of Fortune Trio cabinet, Wheel of Fortune Cash Link Reels Double Diamond and Wheel of Fortune Cash Link Reels Double Gold on the DiamondRS⢠Wheel cabinet, Wheel of Fortune Triple Gold Gold Spin on the MegaTower⢠cabinet, Wheel of Fortune Triple Stars Gold Spin Deluxe on the CrystalWheel Stepper cabinet and more.

"Launching the first wide-area progressive games in Massachusetts with MGM Springfield gives players a new way to experience Wheel of Fortune Slots as we mark its 30th anniversary," said Hector Fernandez, IGT CEO. "IGT helped shape the WAP category through decades of innovation, and this launch builds on that legacy while creating new opportunities for our customers and their players."

First launched in 1996, IGT's Wheel of Fortune slots are hailed as the most successful slot themes of all time. Since the game's debut, IGT Wheel of Fortune slots have paid out more than $3.6 billion in jackpots and minted more than 1,200 millionaires via more than 300 variations of the game. IGT has an exclusive licensing agreement with Sony Pictures Television to produce Wheel of Fortune slots games through 2034.

For Wheel of Fortune Slots anniversary updates visit www.IGTJackpots.com/WheelofFortune. For more information, visit IGT.com or follow us on LinkedIn and YouTube.

About IGT

IGT is a leading global provider of gaming, digital and financial technology solutions, formed through the combination of International Game Technology PLC's Gaming & Digital Business and Everi Holdings Inc. IGT and Everi's offering spans gaming machines, game content and systems, iGaming, sports betting, cash access, loyalty and player engagement solutions, enabling it to deliver integrated, customer-centric experiences across land-based and digital environments. Organized into Gaming, Digital and FinTech business units, the organization drives innovation, efficiency and value for casino, digital and hospitality operators worldwide. The company is headquartered in Las Vegas.

About MGM Springfield

Covering three city blocks in the heart of downtown Springfield, Mass, MGM Springfield offers an integrated resort experience with more than 125,000 square feet of gaming space, a 240-room boutique hotel on Main Street and inspired dining headlined by The Chandler Steakhouse, Costa and Tap Sports Bar. MGM Springfield also features a seven-screen Regal luxury cinema complex, bowling lanes, and a seasonally programmed outdoor plaza displaying local art, events and talent. In 2020, MGM Springfield received the world's first New Construction Platinum LEED certification for a gaming resort. For more information, visit mgmspringfield.com, call (413) 273-5000, or find us on Instagram and Facebook.

About Wheel of Fortune:

Now in its 44th season in syndication, Wheel of Fortune remains one of the most successful and beloved game shows in television history. Ryan Seacrest hosts the iconic series alongside the incomparable Vanna White. Wheel of Fortune is produced by Sony Pictures Television, a Sony Pictures Entertainment Company, and Executive Produced by Bellamie Blackstone. It is distributed in syndication in the U.S. by CBS Media Ventures and internationally by Sony Pictures Television.

About Sony Pictures Television

Sony Pictures Television (SPT) is one of the television industry's leading content providers, producing, distributing and carrying programming worldwide in every genre and for every platform. In addition to managing one of the industry's largest libraries of award-winning feature films, television shows and formats, SPT is home to a thriving global content business, operating a robust portfolio of wholly-owned and joint-venture production companies across the U.S., Europe, Latin America, and Asia Pacific, as well as linear and digital channels around the world. SPT is a Sony Pictures Entertainment Company, a subsidiary of Tokyo-based Sony Group Corporation.

Contact:

Phil O'Shaughnessy, Global Communications, toll free in U.S./Canada +1 (844) IGT-7452; outside U.S./Canada +1 (775) 448-0257

© 2026 IGT

©2026 Califon Productions, Inc.

The trademarks and/or service marks used herein are either trademarks or registered trademarks of IGT, its affiliates or its licensors.

SOURCE IGT

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CHICAGO, Nov. 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- First Industrial Realty Trust, Inc. (NYSE: FR), a leading fully integrated owner, operator and developer of logistics real estate, today announced that its board of directors declared a common stock dividend of $0.50 per share/unit for the quarter ending December 31, 2026 payable on January 19, 2027 to stockholders of record on December 31, 2026.

About First Industrial Realty Trust, Inc.

First Industrial Realty Trust, Inc. (NYSE: FR) is a leading U.S.-only owner, operator, developer and acquirer of logistics properties. Through our fully integrated operating and investing platform, we provide high quality facilities and industry-leading customer service to multinational corporations and regional firms that are essential for their supply chains. In total, we own and have under development approximately 72.9 million square feet of industrial space concentrated in 15 target MSAs as of September 30, 2026. For more information, please visit us at www.firstindustrial.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the "Exchange Act"). We intend for such forward-looking statements to be covered by the safe harbor provisions for forward-looking statements contained in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are based on certain assumptions and describe our future plans, strategies and expectations, and are generally identifiable by use of the words "believe," "expect," "plan," "intend," "anticipate," "estimate," "project," "seek," "target," "potential," "focus," "may," "will," "should" or similar words. Although we believe the expectations reflected in forward-looking statements are based upon reasonable assumptions, we can give no assurance that our expectations will be attained or that results will not materially differ. Factors that could have a materially adverse effect on our operations and future prospects include, but are not limited to: changes in national, international, regional and local economic conditions generally and real estate markets specifically, including impacts and uncertainties arising from trade disputes and tariffs on goods imported to or exported from the United States; changes in legislation/regulation (including laws governing the taxation of real estate investment trusts) and actions of regulatory authorities; our ability to qualify and maintain our status as a real estate investment trust; the availability, cost and attractiveness of financing (including both public and private capital), increases in or prolonged periods of elevated interest rates, and our ability to raise equity capital on attractive terms; the availability and attractiveness of terms of debt repurchases; our ability to retain our credit agency ratings; our ability to comply with applicable financial covenants; changes in the competitive environment in which we operate, including changes in supply, demand and valuation of industrial properties and land in our current and potential markets; our ability to identify, acquire, develop and/or manage properties on favorable terms; our ability to dispose of properties on favorable terms; our ability to successfully integrate acquired properties; potential liability relating to environmental matters; defaults on or non-renewal of leases by our tenants; decreases in rental rates or increases in vacancy rates; higher-than-expected real estate construction costs and delays in development or lease-up timelines; uncertainty and economic impacts of pandemics, epidemics or other public health emergencies or fear of such events; risks associated with cybersecurity breaches, cyberattacks, intrusions or other significant disruptions of our information technology networks or systems; potential natural disasters and other catastrophic events, including acts of war or terrorism; insufficient or unavailable insurance coverage; technological developments, particularly those affecting supply chains and logistics; litigation risks, including costs associated with prosecuting or defending claims and potential adverse outcomes; risks associated with our investments in joint ventures, including our lack of sole decision-making authority; and other risks and uncertainties described in Item A, "Risk Factors" and elsewhere in our annual report, on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025, as well as those risks and uncertainties discussed from time to time in our other Exchange Act reports and public filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"). We caution you not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements, which reflect our outlook only and speak only as of the date of this press release or the dates indicated in the statements. We assume no obligation to update or supplement forward-looking statements except as may be required by law. For further information on these and other factors that could impact us and the statements contained herein, reference should be made to our filings with the SEC.

SOURCE First Industrial Realty Trust, Inc.

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Join UCLA psychiatrist and neuroscientist Dr. Helen Lavretsky for a free evening exploring what science reveals about stress, emotional resilience, spirituality, and the surprising ways we can change how we experience life.

LOS ANGELES, Nov. 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Why do some people seem better able to navigate life's challenges? Can meditation and mindfulness actually change the brain? And what does neuroscience tell us about finding greater meaning, connection, and peace in our everyday lives?

On November 10, Unlikely Collaborators welcomes UCLA psychiatrist and neuroscientist Dr. Helen Lavretsky for a fascinating exploration of what modern science is discovering about practices people have turned to for centuries in search of greater well-being.

Drawing on decades of research and her new book, Living From the Soul: The Neuroscience of Spiritual Awakening, Dr. Lavretsky will explore:

- Your brain and stress: What happens in the brain when we experience chronic stress, and how might contemplative practices help?

- The science of inner peace: What research tells us about meditation, yoga, mindfulness, and emotional well-being.

- Breaking familiar patterns: How greater self-awareness can help us recognize habitual reactions and respond differently.

- Purpose and connection: Why meaning, compassion, and connection matter for psychological well-being.

- Science meets spirituality: What neuroscience canâand cannotâtell us about experiences traditionally described as spiritual.

The evening also connects to Unlikely Collaborators' Perception Box⢠framework, which explores how our beliefs, experiences, and conditioning shape the way we see ourselves and the world around us.

The evening will take place in person at Unlikely Collaborators' Santa Monica headquarters and will also be livestreamed online.

Event Schedule

5:00 p.m. â Doors open and reception

6:00 p.m. â Program begins promptly (late entry not permitted)

7:00 p.m. â Book signing and reception

Cost: Free (registration required)

In-person attendees will receive a complimentary copy of Living From the Soul: The Neuroscience of Spiritual Awakening.

About Dr. Helen Lavretsky

Dr. Helen Lavretsky is a Professor In-Residence in the Department of Psychiatry at UCLA and a geriatric integrative psychiatrist with a federally funded research program focused on geriatric depression and integrative mental health using mind-body interventions.

She serves as Director of Research for the UCLA Integrative Medicine Collaborative and directs a clinical and research program in Integrative Psychiatry and the Brain Health Innovation Initiative. Her work explores the intersection of psychiatry, neuroscience, contemplative practices, and integrative approaches to mental health and well-being.

Lavretsky has received Career Development Awards from the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) and the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH). Her honors include the 2020 Distinguished Investigator Awards for research in geriatric psychiatry from the American College of Psychiatrists and the American Association for Geriatric Psychiatry, as well as the Jack Weinberg Memorial Award in Geriatric Psychiatry from the American Psychiatric Association.

She is a Distinguished Life Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association, a Distinguished Fellow of the American Association for Geriatric Psychiatry, and a Fellow of the American College of Neuropsychopharmacology. She is also a past president of the American Association for Geriatric Psychiatry.

Her book, Living From the Soul: The Neuroscience of Spiritual Awakening, explores how neuroscience and spiritual wisdom can inform our understanding of consciousness, resilience, compassion, and the pursuit of a more meaningful life.

About Spark Salons

Spark Salons are a signature program of Unlikely Collaborators, the nonprofit founded by Elizabeth R. Koch. These gatherings bring together grantees, researchers, artists, and collaborators for conversations that challenge perspectives and deepen connections.

Past Spark Salon speakers have included Harris III; Scott Barry Kaufman, PhD; Kim Shapira, MS, RD; John Bucher; Michael Norton, PhD; Vijay Gupta; Ellen Bennett; Candy Chang; Alexandra Samuel, PhD; Brennan Wood; Donna L. Schuurman, EdD; Lisa Feldman Barrett, PhD; Wendy Suzuki, PhD; Nick Foster, RDI; Jade Wu, PhD; Krista Tippett; Eliot Stein; Theresa MacPhail, PhD; Ian Manuel; Sonja Lyubomirsky, PhD; Cara Natterson, MD; Andrew Holecek, PhD; Katherine Center; Marisa T. Cohen, PhD; Valerie Steele, PhD; Cassandra Vieten, PhD; Jonathan Schooler, PhD; Stephen Asma, PhD; and Melissa Conklin.

Watch the Spark Salons Trailer

About Unlikely Collaborators

Unlikely Collaborators is a nonprofit focused on helping people better understand themselves and each other. Founded and led by CEO Elizabeth R. Koch, the organization is built around the Perception Box⢠framework, the idea that our beliefs, experiences, emotions, and conditioning shape how we interpret ourselves and the world around us. By becoming aware of that lens, we create more space for reflection, flexibility, and meaningful change.

SOURCE Unlikely Collaborators

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Bristow Group Reports Third Quarter 2026 Results

Third Quarter Highlights

- Total revenues of $437.9 million in Q3 2026 compared to $411.8 million in Q2 2026

- Net income of $27.7 million, or $0.93 per diluted share, in Q3 2026 compared to net income of $21.2 million, or $0.70 per diluted share, in Q2 2026

- Adjusted EBITDA(1) in Q3 2026 was $89.6 million compared to $79.8 million in Q2 2026

- Repurchased 547,785 shares for total consideration of $25.0 million. Declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.125 per share of common stock

- Affirms 2026 Adjusted EBITDA midpoint

HOUSTON, Nov. 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Bristow Group Inc. (NYSE: VTOL) ("Bristow" or the "Company") today reported net income attributable to the Company of $27.7 million, or $0.93 per diluted share, for the quarter ended September 30, 2026 (the "Current Quarter") on total revenues of $437.9 million compared to net income attributable to the Company of $21.2 million, or $0.70 per diluted share, for the quarter ended June 30, 2026 (the "Preceding Quarter") on total revenues of $411.8 million.

The following table provides select financial highlights for the periods reflected (in thousands, except per share amounts). A reconciliation of net income to EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA, operating income to Adjusted Operating Income and net cash provided by (used in) operating activities to Free Cash Flow and Adjusted Free Cash Flow is included in the "Non-GAAP Financial Measures" section herein.

"We are pleased to announce strong financial results for the third quarter and to reaffirm the midpoint for Bristow's full-year 2026 Adjusted EBITDA guidance," said Chris Bradshaw, President and CEO of Bristow Group. "The business is performing well despite significant, adverse impacts from persistent industry supply chain challenges. While we are experiencing these challenges across Bristow's business, the most acute impacts can be seen in delayed aircraft modification programs for the Company's new search and rescue contracts. These delays, and their associated knock-on effects, are depressing current margins in Bristow's Government Services business. We expect these supply chain issues to stabilize during 2027, facilitating a return to historically strong margins on these long-term government contracts. Meanwhile, the balance of Bristow's portfolio is performing well, and we maintain a very positive outlook for the business. Bristow Special Missions, formerly known as Berry Aviation, has contributed strong financial results since the acquisition closed in July, and we expect this growth to accelerate in the fourth quarter and full-year 2027. Bristow's Offshore Energy Services business has continued to demonstrate robust profitability, and we believe positive offshore energy fundamentals and the tight supply of relevant offshore helicopters combine for more favorable industry conditions than we've seen in more than a dozen years. Through the first nine months of 2026, Bristow has paid cash dividends of more than $11 million and repurchased more than $36 million of common shares, including $25 million under the Company's opportunistic share repurchase authorization."

Sequential Quarter Results

Offshore Energy Services

Revenues from Offshore Energy Services were $5.6 million lower in the Current Quarter. Revenues in Europe were $10.9 million lower primarily due to lower utilization, partially offset by lower penalties and increased rates. Revenues in the Americas were $6.0 million higher primarily due to higher utilization and rates. Revenues in Africa were $0.7 million lower primarily due to higher penalties.

Operating income from Offshore Energy Services was $3.2 million higher in the Current Quarter primarily due to lower operating expenses of $8.3 million, lower depreciation and amortization expense of $1.6 million and lower general and administrative expenses of $1.1 million, offsetting the lower revenues of $5.6 million and lower earnings from unconsolidated affiliates of $2.3 million.

Other operating costs were $5.2 million lower in the Current Quarter primarily due to lower reimbursable expenses, lease costs, training and freight costs. Fuel costs were $3.2 million lower due to lower flight hours and lower global fuel prices. Repairs and maintenance costs were $2.7 million lower primarily due to lower power-by-the-hour ("PBH") expense related to lower flight hours in Europe and Africa and higher vendor credits, partially offset by higher inventory reserves associated with the S76D medium helicopters. Leased-in equipment costs were $1.6 million higher primarily due to the introduction of new H160 medium helicopters in Africa. Personnel costs were $1.1 million higher primarily due to a seasonal personnel cost benefit in Norway in the Preceding Quarter, partially offset by lower headcount in the Current Quarter. Depreciation and amortization expense was lower primarily due to the absence of accelerated depreciation of certain assets recognized in the Preceding Quarter. The decrease in general and administrative expenses was primarily due to lower professional services fees. Earnings from unconsolidated affiliates were $2.3 million lower in the Current Quarter primarily due to the timing of dividends received.

Government Services

Revenues from Government Services were $17.8 million higher in the Current Quarter primarily due to the acquisition of Berry Aviation, Inc., now known as Bristow Special Mission Inc. ("BSM"), which contributed $16.9 million of revenues during the Current Quarter. Revenues on the UK search and rescue ("UKSAR") contract were $1.6 million higher primarily due to lower penalties and increased fuel revenues. Revenues on the Irish Coast Guard ("IRCG") contract were $0.7 million lower primarily due to higher penalties related to aircraft availability.

Operating loss was $0.7 million lower in the Current Quarter primarily due to the increased revenues, partially offset by higher operating expenses of $13.0 million, general and administrative expenses of $2.4 million and depreciation and amortization expense of $1.7 million.

Other operating costs were $5.0 million higher in the Current Quarter primarily due to the inclusion of BSM. Personnel costs were $4.4 million higher primarily due to the inclusion of BSM personnel and the recognition of previously deferred personnel costs in Ireland following the completion of their training, partially offset by lower personnel costs in the UK. Repairs and maintenance costs were $2.4 million higher primarily due to the timing of repairs and lower vendor credits. Leased-in equipment, insurance and fuel costs were $1.2 million higher in total, primarily due to the inclusion of BSM. General and administrative expenses were $2.4 million higher primarily due to personnel and IT costs also related to the inclusion of BSM. Depreciation and amortization expense was $1.7 million higher primarily due to the inclusion of BSM assets and additional assets placed into service.

Other Services

Revenues from Other Services were $14.0 million higher in the Current Quarter primarily due to the acquisition of BSM of $9.2 million and increased activity in Australia of $4.8 million. Operating income was $6.9 million higher primarily due to the increased revenues, partially offset by higher operating expenses of $4.7 million, general and administrative expenses of $1.9 million and depreciation and amortization expense of $0.4 million, primarily attributable to the inclusion of BSM.

Corporate

Operating loss was $2.7 million higher in the Current Quarter primarily due to higher general and administrative expenses of $4.4 million primarily due to professional services fees related to the acquisition of BSM, partially offset by higher net gains on asset dispositions of $1.8 million.

During the Current Quarter, the Company sold one AW189 heavy helicopter as part of a sale lease-back transaction, two AW139 medium helicopters and sold or disposed of various other assets resulting in net gains of $1.9 million. During the Preceding Quarter, the Company sold one AW139 medium helicopter, one AS365 medium helicopter, one fixed wing aircraft and various other assets resulting in net gains of $0.1 million.

Interest income was $0.7 million lower due to lower investment balances.

Other expense, net of $1.0 million in the Current Quarter was primarily due to non-cash foreign exchange losses. Other expense, net of $8.9 million in the Preceding Quarter was primarily due to non-cash foreign exchange losses of $7.7 million and pension-related costs of $1.9 million, partially offset by gains related to insurance claims of $0.7 million.

Income tax expense was $9.0 million higher in the Current Quarter primarily due to higher pre-tax book income and the absence of a tax credit utilized in Nigeria in the Preceding Quarter.

Updates 2026 Outlook Ranges. Affirms 2026 Adjusted EBITDA Midpoint.

Please refer to the section entitled "Forward-Looking Statements Disclosure" below for further discussion regarding the risks and uncertainties as well as other important information regarding Bristow's guidance. The following guidance contains non-GAAP financial measures. Please read the section entitled "Non-GAAP Financial Measures" for further information.

Select financial outlook for 2026 is as follows (in USD, millions):

Capital Allocation and Liquidity

In the Current Quarter, purchases of property and equipment were $20.8 million, of which $5.1 million were maintenance capital expenditures, and cash proceeds from the sale of assets were $19.2 million. In the Preceding Quarter, purchases of property and equipment were $67.4 million, of which $6.8 million were maintenance capital expenditures, and cash proceeds from the sale of assets were $5.1 million.

As of September 30, 2026, the Company had $233.4 million of unrestricted cash and $53.

Proceeds will fuel BRIJ Medical's continued commercial expansion of BRIJ-SEAL⢠and the upcoming launch of BRIJ-Agâ¢, building on strong investor confidence and growing market momentum.

SAN DIEGO, Nov. 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- BRIJ Medical, a medical technology company advancing surgical incision management, today announced that it has closed a $5M financing round. The round was led by the company's Board of Directors, with most of the participation from existing investors.

The company initially set out to raise $3M and increased the round to $5M in response to investor demand.

BRIJ's product portfolio is now being used by surgeons across orthopedic, plastic and spine surgery, spanning a broad range of surgical procedures. Following the July 2026 launch of BRIJ-SEALâ¢, the company's advanced wound closure device, BRIJ is building commercial momentum and preparing to introduce BRIJ-Agâ¢, its silver-based antimicrobial wound dressing, later this quarter.

"We set out to raise $3 million and chose to upsize the round because our investors saw the same opportunity we do," said Tim Gleeson, CEO of BRIJ Medical. "This investment allows us to put BRIJ-SEAL and Brijjit® in front of more surgeons while accelerating the launch of BRIJ-Ag. We're seeing growing interest across multiple surgical specialties, and we're focused on building the commercial reach and infrastructure to meet that demand."

John Grotting, Chairman of the Board, added: "We increased our commitment because we believe BRIJ is at an important inflection point. The company has developed a differentiated portfolio addressing meaningful needs in surgical care, and we're pleased to support the team as it enters its next phase of growth."

Funding to Accelerate Commercial Growth

Proceeds from the round will primarily support BRIJ Medical's commercial expansion and upcoming product launch initiatives. With an expanding product portfolio, growing surgeon engagement and increased investment in its commercial organization, BRIJ Medical is positioned to build on its momentum and advance its mission to redefine surgical closure and incision management.

About BRIJ Medical

BRIJ Medical is redefining incision management through active tension offloading and advanced incision protection.â¯With a portfolio of innovative solutions that cover, protect, and reinforce incisions, BRIJ empowers surgeons from closure through recovery.

BRIJ-SEALâ¯is an advanced wound closure device that provides a 14-day bacterial barrier, while Brijjit®â¯is an active tension offloading device clinically shown to eliminate up to 100% of incisional tension.

Trusted by plastic and orthopedic surgeons across the U.S. and Canada, BRIJ Medical brings greater control and confidence to incision management.

Learn more at www.BRIJmedical.com.

*Clinical data available at Brij Medical's website: Clinical Evidence â BRIJ Medical

SOURCE BRIJ Medical

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In the news release, Specialty Program Group Strengthens Wholesale Professional Liability Expertise with Appointment of Victoria Dearing, issued 03-Nov-2026 by Specialty Program Group over PR Newswire, we are advised by the company that changes have been made. The complete, corrected release follows, with additional details at the end:

Specialty Program Group Strengthens Wholesale Professional Liability Expertise with Appointment of Victoria Dearing

- Dearing brings more than 45 years of insurance industry experience, including extensive expertise in professional liability, allied health, cyber and complex specialty risks.

- Her appointment expands SPG ExecuPro's professional liability expertise and strengthens the specialized brokerage capabilities available to retail partners through SPG Wholesale.

CHICAGO, Nov. 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Specialty Program Group LLC (SPG), a leading operator of specialty insurance distribution, underwriting and consulting businesses, today announced the appointment of Victoria "Vicky" Dearing as Senior Vice President of SPG ExecuPro, the Executive & Professional Liability solution within SPG Wholesale. Dearing brings more than 45 years of insurance industry experience, including over three decades specializing in professional liability, and extensive experience developing coverage solutions for complex and hard-to-place risks.

She previously served as Senior Vice President and Managing Broker of a national brokerage firm. Her expertise spans professional liability, cyber, management liability, medical malpractice and complex specialty risks. Throughout her career, she has led specialty brokerage teams, developed insurance programs and contributed to industry education, including serving as an adjunct professor at the University of Texas at Dallas. She holds five professional insurance designations and has received industry recognition from Insurance Business America.

"Vicky's addition to SPG ExecuPro is a defining moment for our team," said Amanda Sedliak, President of SPG ExecuPro. "Her depth of technical expertise across professional liability, allied health, and cyber, combined with her reputation for tackling the most complex and unusual risks in the market makes her exactly the kind of talent that elevates our value to retail partners and clients alike. We are fortunate to have someone of her caliber, and I look forward to the impact she will have on our producers and our business."

Dearing's appointment adds specialized expertise to SPG ExecuPro's existing capabilities in Management Liability, Professional Liability, Medical Malpractice and Cyber Liability. As part of SPG Wholesale, ExecuPro provides retail brokers with access to specialty markets, experienced professionals and tailored coverage solutions across a broad range of industries and professional exposures.

"I'm incredibly excited to be joining the SPG ExecuPro team and begin this next chapter of my career," said Victoria Dearing, Senior Vice President of SPG ExecuPro. "One of the things I value most about this industry is the relationships I've built over the years, and I'm especially looking forward to reconnecting with the retail agents I've worked with for more than two decades, meeting new partners, and continuing to find solutions for the complex and unusual risks that make this business so interesting."

About Specialty Program Group

Specialty Program Group LLC (SPG) is a leading specialty platform headquartered in Chicago, IL, with a diverse portfolio of specialty insurance operations spanning underwriting management, digital solutions, wholesale and specialty retail brokerage, and insurance services. SPG has a track record of scaling industry leading businesses by providing access to business resources, technology and process efficiency, capital and investment, deep carrier relationships, and a broad distribution network. Visit specialtyprogramgroup.com to learn more about how SPG can help you scale your specialty business.

About SPG ExecuPro

SPG ExecuPro is the Executive & Professional Liability solution within SPG Wholesale, a division of Specialty Program Group (SPG). ExecuPro specializes in Management Liability, Professional Liability/Errors & Omissions, Medical Malpractice and Cyber Liability, providing retail brokers with access to specialty insurance markets and experienced professionals who develop tailored solutions for complex risks. For more information, visit specialtyprogramgroup.com/wholesale/execupro/.

CONTACT:

SPG Media: Lea Prses

lea.prses@specialtyprogramgroup.com

Correction: The first sentence of the second paragraph has been revised.

SOURCE Specialty Program Group

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SACRAMENTO, Calif., Nov. 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The Los Angeles Times is reporting that a secret PG&E presentation shared with state senators calls for limiting shareholder liability for fires caused by utilities' negligence in a special session to be completed before Thanksgiving.

Under the proposal, no matter how negligent the utilities were in starting a wildfire their shareholders would be liable for no more than between $1.5 billion and $5.1 billion, and the rest of the costs would be on ratepayers. The Eaton fire, reportedly started by Edison's negligence, could cost between $14 billion and $18 billion.

"For PG&E and Edison to believe they can limit their shareholders' liability so dramatically in a special session two weeks before Thanksgiving has got to be the biggest Turkey of the year," said Jamie Court, president of Consumer Watchdog. "You can't sneak a change this big by the public without the consequence of political suicide for the legislators who would approve such a giveaway to shareholders at the expense of ratepayers and wildfire victims without proper legislative scrutiny."

Nonetheless, the CEOs of Edison and PG&E have claimed in recent investor calls a special session is viable before Thanksgiving and the recently revealed presentation shows the prize they want: a hard cap on shareholder liability for utility-caused fires. Edison CEO Pedro Pizarro announced the Thanksgiving deadline on a recent investor call saying, "This legislature is no longer in place as of November 30th. Under the Constitution, if they're going to send a bill to the governor through a special session, that bill would need to go in no later than November 15th."

"This Thanksgiving surprise could quickly turn into a turkey shoot for Gavin Newsom's presidential ambitions were he to call a special session to rush this bailout through," said Court.

Sacramento insiders suggest that rank and file legislators are cold to such a special session with only Assembly Utilities and Energy Committee Chair Cottie Petrie Norris, backed by Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas, siding with the utilities in calling for it.

Consumer Watchdog noted that utilities hid from the legislative debate all year by refusing to publicly comment or testify and sheltering behind their Wildfire Victims First group, so there couldn't be an honest debate during the legislative session. Now they are demanding a special session before Thanksgiving.

"It's an outrageous way of conducting public business," said Court. "The governor's fact sheet on his plan, the only public document with his and the utilities' intentions, never mentioned a shareholder liability cap. Now just before Thanksgiving suddenly a shareholder liability cap is on the table."

"A hard cap on shareholder liability would create moral hazard by putting a predictable price on a for profit utility's negligence," Court said. "That would encourage a for profit utility like Edison to prioritize short term profit over long term safety, for example by not removing an abandoned transmission line even though it was allocated money to do it because it could make investment returns on the money. If Edison knows the most its shareholders are liable for a wildfire is $4.6 billion, it won't be as careful as it would if its shareholders faced full liability when the company is negligent or imprudent. Edison and PG&E have shown us repeatedly if they are not held fully financially responsible for their negligence, they will continue to be negligent."

The Public Utilities Commission yesterday posted its report on the need for wildfire liability reform in response to a query from Governor Newsom. Senator Sasha Renée Pérez has called on the PUC to require Edison and PG&E to comply with its duty to serve and not delay necessary services pending a bailout, what Consumer Watchdog calls bailout blackmail. The PUC fails to deal with how it can protect ratepayers from PG&E's and Edison's delays in its report.

"The PUC makes the same error as the CEA did in its SB 254 report," Court said. "The PUC acts like wildfires just start on their own when in fact the most devastating wildfires were started by utilities' negligence, including the Camp fire and the Eaton fire. When utilities' negligence causes wildfires, shareholders need to be responsible and deterring the wildfires in the first place should be the principal goal not limiting liability for utility-caused wildfires. The PUC's failure to oversee the three for profit utilities and punish them when their negligence causes a loss of lives is a big reason the utilities don't feel the need to do better. The PUC should focus on regulating the utilities and stopping their bailout blackmail by forcing PG&E to provide the connection services it promised to without delay under the company's duty to serve."

SOURCE Consumer Watchdog

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Mallet & Company announces that Bundy Baking and its affiliate, Synova, must destroy all material that makes reference to Mallet's formulas, processes, methods, and other proprietary information; Mallet granted comprehensive audit rights for four years to ensure no current or planned Synova products violate the injunction

DEERFIELD, Ill., Nov. 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- In the latest in a series of sharply worded post-trial rulings against Bundy Baking Solutions and its affiliate, Synova, related to the theft of trade secrets from competitor Mallet & Company, a federal district court judge in Pittsburgh permanently prohibits Bundy Baking from selling "any product derived from Mallet's trade secrets," as well as "any product with a substantially similar formula" to Mallet's market-leading baking release agents.

In furtherance of the injunction, Chief Judge Cathy Bissoon of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania ordered that Bundy and Synova must turn over to Mallet, and then destroy, all copies of information that includes references to trade secrets taken from Mallet. Moreover, for a period of four years, Mallet may conduct comprehensive audits, includingâas stated in the judge's orderâ audits of all batch records for any Synova product that has a substantially similar formula to the relevant Mallet products, "and/or any product derived from Mallet's Trade Secrets."

According to the Judge's order, Mallet's audit rights extend to Bundy's products and its databases, document management systems, computers and servers, email, and other systems and devices to ensure Bundy complies with the order and is not infringing Mallet's trade secrets.

In addition, for four years Bundy must give Mallet seven days' notice if it intends to interview for employment any current or former Mallet employee with a noncompete agreement.

Mallet and Company is a division of Vantage Group, a leading provider of specialty chemicals and ingredients for a range of commercial and industrial applications. Baking release agents facilitate the removal of baked goods from pans, molds, trays, conveyor belts, or packaging.

"Misappropriation of intellectual property should never be rewarded, and this order will help ensure Bundy Baking and Synova cannot benefit from their brazen theft of our trade secrets," said Jan Tinge, Vantage's Executive Vice President, Foods. "We greatly appreciate the thorough nature of the judge's ruling, which covers past and current Synova products, as well as any that may be under development."

'Willful and Malicious' Theft of Trade Secrets

This latest order by Chief Judge Bissoon comes in the wake of an April 2025 jury verdict that found Bundy Banking and Synova had misappropriated product formulas and other trade secrets related to the manufacture and sale of Mallet's release agents. The evidence produced at trial showed, among other tactics, that Synova's CEO created a fictitious email addressâunder the name "John Smith"âto exchange emails with a former Mallet employee in order to facilitate the trade secret theft. As Chief Judge Bissoon noted in a subsequent ruling, the jury found Bundy and Synova's actions to be "willful and malicious" and it "awarded punitive damages against both companies, on every available claim." Bundy Baking Solutions has appealed the verdict.

In January 2026, Bundy and Synova were also sanctioned for "indefensible" post-trial conductâspecifically, the wrongful disclosure of Mallet's trade secrets in a post-trial court filing. As a result of the verdict and other rulings, Bundy Baking has been ordered to pay more than $20 million in damages, fees, and costs.

The trial court noted that it will retain jurisdiction to ensure compliance with all facets of the permanent injunction.

Mallet was represented at trial by Mayer Brown LLP and its attorneys Carmine R. Zarlenga, E. Brantley Webb, Catherine Medvene, and Anna V. Durham.

The case is Mallet & Co v. Lacayo, et al. (Case No. 2:19-cv-01409, U.S. District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania). A copy of the October 27, 2026 Order can be found here.

About Mallet and Company

Mallet was acquired by Vantage in 2016, establishing the foundation for what is now the Vantage Food business. With complementary acquisitions of AMARNAKOTE® water-based release agents in 2018 and Spanish oils company TEXTRON PLIMON in 2019, Vantage Food has evolved as an industry leader offering exceptional customer service and a comprehensive solutions offering of release agents, functional ingredients and equipment designed to meet the needs of commercial bakers and other food applications.

About Vantage Food: Better Performance Made Possible

As one of the leaders in the food industry, Vantage Food provides exceptional service to our customers through comprehensive solutions offering of release agents, functional ingredients and equipment designed to meet the needs of various food applications. Vantage Food is a reliable supplier committed to quality and innovation and delivering top-notch solutions that help drive success supporting large-scale operations and small businesses alike. Vantage Food is a business unit of Vantage Specialty Chemicals. Learn more at: vantagefood.com or contact us for more information info.food@vantagegrp.com .

About Vantage

Vantage provides natural solutions that support our customers' technical performance and marketing needs through a unique combination of chemistry, application expertise and service. Underpinned by a broad portfolio of formulations, ingredients and actives that are built on a backbone of sustainable oils, fats and their derivatives, Vantage targets selected markets and applications including personal care, food, surface treatment, agriculture, pharma, and consumer and industrial performance. Vantage is headquartered in Deerfield, IL, operates in 11 countries worldwide and employs more than 1,000 talented professionals focused on delivering exceptional customer experiences with every interaction. Learn more at vantagegrp.com.

SOURCE Vantage Specialty Chemicals/Mallet and Company

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DALLAS, Nov. 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Cordatus Capital ("Cordatus"), a Dallas-based private equity firm, is pleased to announce a majority investment in Diamabrush ("Diamabrush" or the "Company"), a leading manufacturer of consumable abrasive products for floor preparation, polishing, and maintenance of concrete and terrazzo flooring. Headquartered in Sterling Heights, Michigan, Diamabrush provides innovative solutions that enable customers to maintain high-quality flooring surfaces. The Company serves a diverse customer base across retail, industrial, commercial, and institutional end markets throughout North America and select global markets.

Cordatus is excited to partner with Mike Sancimino, Co-Founder and CEO, and the entire Diamabrush team to accelerate growth through continued product innovation, expansion into new markets, deeper penetration of existing customer relationships, and strategic acquisitions. Mike Sancimino will continue leading Diamabrush in his current position as CEO, alongside the Company's existing management team.

Mike Sancimino commented, "We are excited to partner with Cordatus as we enter the next chapter of Diamabrush's growth. Since founding the Company, our mission has been to develop innovative products that deliver superior performance and meaningful cost savings for our customers. We have built a strong foundation through our differentiated products, dedicated employees, and longstanding customer relationships. Cordatus shares our vision for the future of Diamabrush, and we believe their experience, resources, and flexible investment approach will allow us to expand our capabilities, pursue new opportunities, and continue delivering exceptional service to our customers."

"We are excited to support Mike and his team as they build upon Diamabrush's impressive track record of success," said Kevin Lippincott, Partner at Cordatus. "Diamabrush has established itself as an industry leader through its high-performing products, strong customer relationships, and unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction. The Company's unique combination of specialized manufacturing capabilities, nationwide technical support, and data-driven customer solutions sets it apart in the floor maintenance industry. We see tremendous opportunity to build upon this competitive advantage and further strengthen Diamabrush's position in the market."

Foley & Lardner LLP served as legal advisor to Cordatus. Lincoln International served as financial advisor to Diamabrush and Bass, Berry & Sims PLC served as legal advisor to Diamabrush.

About Diamabrush

Founded in 2007 and headquartered in Sterling Heights, Michigan, Diamabrush is a leading manufacturer of proprietary abrasive tools and floor maintenance solutions. The Company designs and manufactures a comprehensive portfolio of consumable products for the preparation, restoration, polishing, and ongoing maintenance of concrete, terrazzo, and other flooring surfaces. Diamabrush's patented technology enables customers to achieve superior floor performance using existing cleaning equipment, reducing the need for costly third-party contractors and traditional maintenance methods. Complementing its product offerings, the Company operates a nationwide technical service team that provides hands-on training, ongoing support, and maintenance insights to customers across a broad range of end markets.

About Cordatus Capital

Founded in 2012, Cordatus Capital is a private investment firm based in Dallas, Texas. Cordatus is a flexible capital provider focused on - but not limited to - control equity investments in lower-middle-market companies. Cordatus typically invests alongside great management teams in cash flowing businesses with $25-$200 million of revenue and has invested across various industries. Currently, Cordatus is specifically targeting add-on opportunities in construction materials, packaged gas distribution, metal building manufacturers, and metal component suppliers. For further information visit https://cordatuscapital.com/.

SOURCE Cordatus Capital

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SANTA CLARA, Calif., Nov. 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Sesame Software, the Enterprise Data Management leader, today launched a free migration assessment for organizations ready to move off Salesforce. Teams connect read-only, and a Sesame Software data expert delivers a scoped, priced migration plan based on their actual data.

Why CRM Exits Stall

For many teams, staying on their current CRM is a default, not a decision. Three concerns keep them there: losing records, attachments or relationships in the move; API limits and data volumes that make exports slow and fragile; and losing years of history after cutover.

A Migration You Can See, Check and Sign Off

Sesame Software runs every move in five steps: assess, map, dry run, transfer and verify. Customers get:

- Relationships intact: parent-child relationships are preserved automatically, and a verification report reconciles every count

- Built for scale: patented hyper-threaded replication handles hundreds of millions of records without custom code and works around API limits

- History kept: an optional searchable archive in storage the customer owns, with audit trails and point-in-time access

- Data stays put: pipelines run inside the customer's environment, and Sesame Software never stores customer data

"The hardest part of leaving a CRM isn't the decision. It's proving nothing gets lost on the way out," said Kristen Besselsen, Marketing Director, Sesame Software. "We show customers the evidence before cutover, so sign-off is based on a report, not a promise."

Secure and Predictable

Sesame Software is SOC 2 Type II certified, encrypts data with AES-256 at rest and TLS 1.2 or higher in transit, and supports GDPR and CCPA. Pricing is flat and annual, with unlimited data movement and no per-record billing.

Availability

The free migration assessment is available now at https://go.sesamesoftware.com/leave-salesforce. No credit card required.

About Sesame Software

Sesame Software is the Enterprise Data Management leader, delivering data rapidly for enhanced reporting and analytics. Sesame Software's data platform offers superior solutions for data warehousing, integration, as well as backup, and compliance to fit your business needs. Quickly connect to SaaS, on-premise, and cloud applications for accelerated insights. With over 30 years of enterprise expertise, Sesame Software helps businesses take back control of their data, access it from anywhere, ensure security and compliance, and unlock its power to grow.

Media Contact:

Kristen Besselsen

kristen.besselsen@sesamesoftware.com

SOURCE Sesame Software

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