Ally recognized by Money, Fortune, PEOPLE, Forbes, American Banker and Newsweek for customer value, workplace culture, leadership and trust

DETROIT, Nov. 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Ally Financial (NYSE: ALLY) today announced it has earned national recognition across banking, workplace culture, leadership and trust from six leading organizations, including Money's Best National Bank and Best Online Bank, Fortune's Best Workplaces in Financial Services & Insurance (No. 12), Forbes' Dream Employers, three top 10 rankings in American Banker's 2026 Most Powerful Women in Banking⢠program, and Newsweek's World's Most Trustworthy Companies (No. 44). The awards recognize Ally's focus on delivering value to customers, building a culture where employees thrive, developing recognized leaders, and earning the trust of the communities it serves.

Why Ally Bank Ranks Among the Best National and Online Banks

Ally Bank earned top marks across three Money Best Banks 2027 categories, recognized for its combination of competitive rates, minimal fees and strong customer service across its all-digital banking platform.

- Money: Best National Bank â Best Overall (2027)

Money evaluated over 115 retail banks, credit unions and regional institutions on asset size, account fees, deposit minimums, ATM accessibility, and customer satisfaction ratings. Ally was named Best Overall for its combination of competitive rates, no monthly maintenance fees, and strong JD Power customer satisfaction scores.

- Money: Best Online Bank â Best Overall (2027)

Money evaluated all-digital banks on account options, APYs, fee structure, customer satisfaction, ATM access and online tools. Ally was named Best Overall for its high APYs across all deposit accounts, no monthly maintenance fees, and extensive fee-free ATM network.

- Money: Best Banks for Savings Accounts â Best Digital Savings Tools (2027)

Money evaluated savings accounts on access to funds, account fees, APYs, customer service, financial standing, fraud protection, FDIC insurance, and mobile app quality. Ally was named Best Digital Savings Tools for its savings buckets, which organize savings into up to 30 categories within one account, and automated boosters â recurring transfers, round-ups, and Surprise Savings, which find safe-to-save funds in linked checking accounts.

How Ally Builds a Top Workplace in Financial Services

Ally's workplace recognitions point to a purpose-driven culture built on doing right by employees and the communities they serve â spanning both internal culture and external community impact.

- Fortune: Best Workplaces in Financial Services & Insurance (2026), No. 12

Fortune partnered with Great Place to Work to analyze survey feedback representing more than 194,000 U.S. employees in the industry. Ally rose two places from No. 14 in 2025, marking its highest ever ranking.

- PEOPLE: Companies That Care (2026), No. 79

The Companies that Care list highlights the top U.S. companies that have succeeded in business while demonstrating outstanding respect, care and concern for their employees, their communities and the environment. Great Place To Work selected the list based on over 1.3 million confidential survey responses from companies representing more than 7.3 million U.S. employees.

- Forbes: America's Dream Employers 2027

Ally was recognized on the 2027 list. The ranking draws on surveys of more than 10,000 U.S. college students and 142,000 U.S. workers about the employers they consider dream employers, along with factors including growth opportunities, quality of work, company reputation, professional development and working conditions.

Who Are Ally's Recognized Leaders in Banking

Three Ally leaders ranked in the top 10 across their respective American Banker 2026 Most Powerful Women in Banking lists.

- Lindsay Sacknoff, President of Consumer Banking, Ally Financial â No. 4, Women to Watch (2026)

Sacknoff oversees strategy and design for Ally's digital financial solutions and manages bank operations including fraud and financial crimes, consumer insights, and the customer care and experience group supporting 3.6 million customers at the nation's largest all-digital bank.

- Stephanie Richard, Chief Risk Officer, Ally Financial â No. 9, Women to Watch (2026)

Richard, a newcomer to the ranking, was recognized for modernizing Ally's approach to risk management, shifting the focus from reporting and process to strategic decision-making, accountability, and business performance.

- Yasmin Tailor, Executive Director and Consumer Banking CFO, Ally Financial â No. 8, NEXT (2026)

The NEXT list ranks leaders aged 40 and below based on their growing contributions to their banks. In her role, Tailor was recognized for helping lead a major consumer banking transformation, overseeing retail deposits, brokerage and advisory assets, and consumer-facing operations.

Why Ally Is Ranked Among the World's Most Trustworthy Companies

Trust is at the core of Ally's "Do It Right" philosophy â and the Newsweek recognition shows how customers, investors and employees perceive that commitment.

- Newsweek: World's Most Trustworthy Companies (2026), No. 44 in Financial Services & Investment

The World's Most Trustworthy Companies 2026 recognizes 1,000 companies that have earned confidence across customers, investors and employees. The ranking is based on approximately 200,000 company evaluations from more than 65,000 people across 20 countries, complemented by an analysis of over 320,000 media mentions. The overall score consists of 80% survey results (40% customer trust, 40% investor trust, 20% employee trust) and 20% social listening analysis.

For a complete list of Ally's awards and industry recognitions, visit the Ally Media Center Awards and Recognitions page.

About Ally Financial

Ally Financial Inc. (NYSE: ALLY) includes the nation's largest all-digital bank and an industry leading auto finance business, driven by a mission to "Do It Right" for its customers and communities. Ally is a U.S. financial holding company with $203 billion in assets and 9.7 million customers (September 30, 2026). Ally Bank, Member FDIC, offers online banking products, including high-yield savings and no hidden fee checking, and was the first major U.S. bank to eliminate overdraft fees. Ally also provides investing solutions through Ally Invest, including online brokerage, automated investing, IRAs and personal financial advice. As a leader in auto finance, Ally provides consumer and dealer financing, insurance, and vehicle remarketing services. Ally's seasoned corporate finance business provides capital to equity sponsors and middle-market companies. Visit ally.com.

Contact:

Alex Moore

Ally Communications (Media)

[email protected]

SOURCE Ally Financial

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Houston Executive Coach Introduces Five-Part SPECS Framework To Redefine Career Development

In "Who Are Your SPECS? Redefining Career Empowerment for the Future of Work," Dr. Brandi R. Muñoz introduces five essential support roles for individuals and organizations.

HOUSTON, Nov. 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- A mentor can offer advice, but advice alone doesn't open doors. In "Who Are Your SPECS? Redefining Career Empowerment for the Future of Work," Dr. Brandi R. Muñoz, an executive coach, organizational consultant and author, introduces the research-informed SPECS framework: five professional roles designed to help individuals navigate their careers and organizations support their growth.

SPECS stands for Subject Matter Expert/Mentor, Peer, Executive Sponsor, Coach and Spokesperson/Advocate. Mentors share expertise; peers provide perspective and accountability; executive sponsors open doors; coaches help professionals reflect and act; and spokespersons/advocates amplify their work when they are not in the room. Together, Dr. Muñoz calls these five distinct yet complementary roles the "Circle of Success."

Drawing on more than 15 years of experience in HR, organizational development and executive coaching, Dr. Muñoz offers a research-informed, practical approach to identifying support gaps and building an intentional Circle of Success. The book includes a mapping worksheet and reflection questions to help readers assess their existing support networks and identify opportunities for growth. For employers, the framework offers a lens for strengthening leadership development, talent mobility, sponsorship, coaching and cultures of advocacy.

"Success is never a solo endeavor," Dr. Muñoz writes. "A mentor helps you learn, a peer helps you navigate challenges, a sponsor opens doors to opportunities, a coach helps you gain clarity and turn insight into action, and an advocate helps ensure your voice is heard. These roles are not interchangeable. Together, they create a Circle of Success that supports individual growth and helps organizations develop talent."

"Who Are Your SPECS? Redefining Career Empowerment for the Future of Work" challenges professionals to rethink career advancement in an evolving workplace. Through practical tools, reflection, and the SPECS Framework, the book encourages readers to build intentional relationships while helping organizations create environments where talent can grow, gain visibility, and access opportunities.

"Who Are Your SPECS? Redefining Career Empowerment for the Future of Work"

By Brandi R. Muñoz, EdD, PCC, SPHR 

ISBN: 9781665791892 (softcover); 9781665791915 (hardcover); 9781665791908 (electronic) 

Available at Archway Publishing, Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Learn more about the book at Who Are Your SPECS?

About the author

Dr. Brandi R. Muñoz, EdD, PCC, SPHR, is an executive coach, organizational consultant, speaker and author with more than 15 years of experience in human resources, organizational development, leadership and career development. She holds a doctorate in Organizational Leadership and Conflict Resolution and is an International Coaching Federation (ICF) Professional Certified Coach (PCC). Through Dr. Brandi R. Muñoz Coaching, she works with individuals and organizations to support professional growth and build strong support systems. Her work informs the SPECS Framework, which brings together five complementary roles to support career development and organizational success. To learn more, visit brandirmunoz.com.

About InkFox Publicity

InkFox Publicity (a LAVIDGE Co.) is a dedicated book publicity firm built for today's publishing landscape, where authors operate as entrepreneurs, publishers require sustained audience engagement, and visibility demands a blend of traditional media, digital strategy, and creative storytelling. InkFox is also backed by the full-service marketing expertise of LAVIDGE, delivering tailored publicity journeys rather than one-size-fits-all campaigns. Visit inkfoxpublicity.com to learn more.

Media contact:

InkFox Publicityâ Phoenix 

Kirsten Kalebich

480.306.7271

[email protected]

SOURCE Archway Publishing

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CHICAGO, Nov. 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Ziegler is pleased to announce the successful closing of a long-term FHA/HUD Section 232/223(f) financing transaction that refinances the community's existing debt and positions Magnolia Crossing for continued growth, stability, and mission fulfillment for decades to come.

Magnolia Crossing Senior Living is a nonprofit assisted living and memory care community located in Clovis, California. Developed by Innovative Development and Living Solutions of California (IDLS), Magnolia Crossing utilizes a small-home, person-centered model designed to provide dignified, housing and care for seniors across all income levels.

Since opening in February 2018, Magnolia Crossing has earned widespread recognition for its innovative approach to senior living. The community consists of three small residential homes designed to promote meaningful relationships, resident choice, and engagement, rather than traditional institutional care. Through its mixed-income operating model, Magnolia Crossing serves a diverse resident population, combining private-pay residents with individuals supported through Medi-Cal.

"From the beginning, Magnolia Crossing has distinguished itself as a community committed to innovation, dignity, and accessibility in senior living," said Humair Sabir, Managing Director, Ziegler Senior Housing & Care Finance.

"We are proud to have partnered with the Magnolia Crossing team throughout its stabilization journey and to help secure financing that will support the community's long-term success while preserving its mission-driven approach to care."

Working closely with Magnolia Crossing, Ziegler evaluated a wide range of strategic alternatives, including FHA/HUD financing, agency lending options, bridge financing structures, nonprofit affiliation opportunities, and potential acquisition scenarios. Following extensive analysis, FHA/HUD financing emerged as the optimal solution, offering the strongest combination of long-term stability, financial flexibility, and mission preservation.

"Ziegler understood not only the financial aspects of our community, but also the mission that drives it," said Michael Sigala, Board President of IDLS and Magnolia Crossing.

"Their guidance, persistence, and expertise helped us navigate a complex process and secure financing that protects the community's future while enabling us to continue serving seniors of all income levels."

The refinancing marks a significant milestone in Magnolia Crossing's evolution. The FHA/HUD financing replaces the community's construction-era debt with permanent, long-term financing featuring a 35-year, fixed-rate, fully amortizing structure, competitive interest rates, and flexible future financing options. In addition, the transaction provided funding for approximately $660,000 of owner-elected capital improvements, including investments in solar energy infrastructure, while establishing substantial reserves to support future repairs and replacement needs.

Ziegler's Senior Housing & Care Finance Practice is dedicated to delivering best-in-class advisory and financing solutions for companies and organizations across the healthcare industry. In our core practice areas â healthcare services, information technology, hospitals, and senior living. Ziegler is one of the most active M&A firms, offering innovative sell-side, buy-side, recapitalization / restructuring, equity private placement, and strategic partnering services.

For more information about Ziegler, please visit us at www.ziegler.com.

For more information about Magnolia Crossing, please visit: http://www.magnoliacrossing.org.

About Ziegler:

Ziegler is a privately held, national boutique investment bank, capital markets, and proprietary investments firm. It has a unique focus on healthcare, senior living, and education sectors, as well as general municipal and structured finance. Headquartered in Chicago with regional and branch offices throughout the U.S., Ziegler provides its clients with capital raising, strategic advisory services, fixed income sales, underwriting and trading as well as Ziegler Credit Surveillance and Analytics. To learn more, visit www.ziegler.com.

Certain comments in this news release represent forward-looking statements made pursuant to the provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. This client's experience may not be representative of the experience of other clients, nor is it indicative of future performance or success. The forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, in particular, the overall financial health of the securities industry, the strength of the healthcare sector of the U.S. economy and the municipal securities marketplace, the ability of the Company to underwrite and distribute securities, the market value of mutual fund portfolios and separate account portfolios advised by the Company, the volume of sales by its retail brokers, the outcome of pending litigation, and the ability to attract and retain qualified employees.

SOURCE Ziegler

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NEW BRITAIN, Conn., Nov. 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Stanley Black & Decker (NYSE: SWK) today announced that Chris Nelson, President & CEO, will speak at Baird's 2026 Global Industrial Conference on Thursday, November 12, 2026 at 12:00 PM CT (1:00 PM ET).

The live webcast will be available in the "Events" section of the Stanley Black & Decker Investors website at www.stanleyblackanddecker.com/investors. A replay of the webcast will be provided on the website and will be available for 30 days.

About Stanley Black & Decker 

Founded in 1843 and headquartered in the USA, Stanley Black & Decker (NYSE: SWK) is a worldwide leader in Tools and Outdoor, operating manufacturing facilities globally. The Company's approximately 41,000 employees produce innovative end-user inspired power tools, hand tools, storage, digital jobsite solutions, outdoor and lifestyle products, and engineered fasteners to support the world's builders, tradespeople and DIYers. The Company's world class portfolio of trusted brands includes DEWALT®, CRAFTSMAN®, STANLEY®, BLACK+DECKER®, and Cub Cadet®. To learn more visit: www.stanleyblackanddecker.com or follow Stanley Black & Decker on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and X.

SOURCE Stanley Black & Decker, Inc.

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DENVER, Nov. 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Frontier Airlines, Inc., a subsidiary of Frontier Group Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: ULCC), today announced the appointment of Michael Delehant as Executive Vice President, Chief Operating Officer, effective November 30, 2026. The company also announced several other changes to its leadership team.

In his new role, Delehant will oversee all aspects of operations and report to Frontier CEO Jimmy Dempsey.

Delehant brings deep airline leadership experience to the role, most recently serving as Group Managing Director of Wizz Air, where he oversaw the airline's operational and commercial activities. His experience also includes senior leadership roles at Vueling, a Spanish low-cost carrier, where he most recently served as Chief Strategy and Network Officer, as well as a series of leadership positions at Southwest Airlines.

"Michael brings a wealth of airline experience across diverse commercial and operational disciplines, which will be instrumental as we continue growing our airline and executing against our strategic priorities," said Dempsey.

Delehant holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Michigan and an M.B.A. from Southern Methodist University.

The company also announced that James Fenner has been promoted to Senior Vice President and Chief Revenue Officer. His responsibilities include Pricing and Revenue Management, Loyalty and Network Planning. Fenner has served with Frontier for more than 10 years in a variety of leadership roles, most recently as Vice President of Revenue and Loyalty.

"James has been instrumental in driving the company's revenue performance and helping advance our priorities in a variety of areas," said Dempsey. "I am confident he will continue to play a critical role in the organization and am grateful for his continued commitment to Frontier."

Bobby Schroeter will continue with Frontier in a new role as Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer, with responsibility for Brand and Customer Experience.

Both Fenner and Schroeter will report to CEO Jimmy Dempsey.

Trevor Stedke, Senior Vice President, Operations, and Alex Clerc, Senior Vice President, Customers, will be leaving the company, effective November 13, 2026.

"I want to express my sincere gratitude to Trevor and Alex for their dedication and contributions to Frontier," said Dempsey. "We thank them for their contributions and wish them continued success."

About Frontier Airlines

Frontier Airlines, Inc. (Nasdaq: ULCC) is a value-focused airline operating one of the youngest and most fuel-efficient fleets in the United States. With a growing network and continued investment in product upgrades, including the introduction of Starlink, the fastest Wi-Fi in the sky, first-class seating and enhanced loyalty benefits, Frontier is giving customers more comfort, flexibility, and rewards while keeping fares low.

SOURCE Frontier Group Holdings, Inc.

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Bird-X Names Emanuel Doolittle Director of Sales and Business Development

Orkin Commercial veteran joins to help extend Bird-X's complete, customer-focused approach to bird control

CHICAGO, Nov. 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Bird-X, Inc. today announced that Emanuel Doolittle has joined as Director of Sales and Business Development. With more than 16 years in sales leadership, including 11 years with Orkin Commercial, Doolittle will build industry partnerships and help more PCOs, installers, distributors, and end users find effective solutions to bird problems. He most recently led branch growth at Groundworks.

Doolittle brings an understanding of the pest control industry and the customers it serves, along with a leadership style built on people, trust, and consistency. Bird-X is excited to welcome him as the company continues to expand its reach.

A Complete Approach to Bird Control

Bird problems vary by species, site, pressure, and operating conditions. Bird-X helps customers evaluate those factors and select an approach suited to the specific job. Its portfolio includes proven physical barriers and visual deterrents, repellents, sound and bioacoustic systems, laser solutions, and electromagnetic field (EMF) technology. Customers can draw on Bird-X expertise for consultations, product guidance, customized training, and support as they plan and implement their solutions.

"I joined Bird-X because I could see the company evolving into a true solutions partner for the industry," Doolittle said. "My time with Orkin gave me a strong understanding of commercial pest control, customer needs, and opportunities in the market. Having worked in pest control, I know bird control is often overlooked. I am excited to help bring more awareness to Bird-X products, introduce new solutions, and work with a team that is focused on helping customers find the right approach for each job."

"Emanuel saw the progress our team has made over the past five years: a broader range of solutions, stronger expertise, and a deeper commitment to service and training. He wants to help us build on that progress and bring the right answer to more customers," said Jeff Spencer, president and CEO of Bird-X.

Leadership and Growth in Commercial Markets

Doolittle spent eleven years at Orkin Commercial, most recently as Regional Sales Manager for the Northeast Region. There he led sales teams across multiple markets, developed the next generation of sales leaders, and built lasting relationships with commercial customers and partners. The experience gave him an inside view of how pest management professionals serve their customers and where the industry has room to grow.

Most recently, as Sales Manager with Groundworks, he led the transformation of a newly acquired branch and helped it earn Groundworks Branch of the Year. He holds professional certifications in Termite Biology and Control from Texas A&M University and Integrated Pest Management from Purdue University.

Doolittle sees education and trusted relationships as central to expanding bird control. "There are a lot of businesses dealing with bird-related issues that may not know what solutions are available. I see a great opportunity to strengthen partnerships with pest control companies, expand into new markets, and help customers solve problems while creating additional revenue opportunities," he said.

His people-focused leadership style will also shape how he develops the Bird-X sales organization. "I enjoy getting to know people, understanding their challenges, and finding ways we can help each other. Some of the best opportunities I have had came from relationships built over time. For me, it is about trust, consistency, and treating people right," Doolittle said. In his first year, he plans to focus on training, product awareness, and new business opportunities. "I want us to look back and see real progress in sales, partnerships, and brand recognition."

Building the Future of Bird Control

"Our ambition is to help lead the next chapter of bird control worldwide. That means continuing to improve our products, using technology to make it easier for PCOs, installers, distributors, and end users to choose and apply the right solutions, and standing behind customers with the knowledge, training, and follow-through each job requires. Emanuel shares that vision and brings the leadership to help us take Bird-X to the next level," Spencer said.

About Bird-X

Founded in 1964, Bird-X provides bird-control solutions for commercial, industrial, agricultural, and residential settings worldwide. Its comprehensive portfolio spans physical barriers, visual deterrents, repellents, sound and bioacoustic systems, laser solutions, and EMF technology. Bird-X supports customers with product expertise, consultations, customized training, and responsive service.

Bird-X supports pest control professionals through PCO Select, a program offering priority access to more than 50 professional-grade products and same-day shipping on qualifying orders. Bird-X also provides PCOs with free consultations and customized training to help them confidently develop bird-control services.

For more information, visit bird-x.com

SOURCE Bird-X, Inc

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WATERTOWN, N.Y., Nov. 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- How can homeowners in Central NY keep their roofs safe through the long, snowy winter? According to a HelloNation article, understanding how snow and ice loads affect roof structures is key to maintaining snow load roof safety and preventing costly damage. The feature highlights insights from Michael Majeski of Over the Top Roofing in Watertown, who shares practical guidance to help homeowners prevent roof collapse from snow before the season's first storm arrives.

In Central NY, winter roofing challenges come with every heavy snowfall. Gregory explains that roofs are engineered for a specific weight limit, and once that limit is exceeded, structural integrity can quickly weaken. Snow load roof safety depends on understanding the difference between light, powdery snow and dense, wet accumulation. While ten inches of dry snow might not add much weight, the same depth of wet snow can multiply the stress on a roof several times over.

The HelloNation article emphasizes that even small amounts of compacted snow or ice can strain a roof past its safe threshold. For homeowners in Watertown, NY, this means staying alert for warning signs, such as sagging rafters, cracked ceilings, or new leaks after a storm. These early indicators suggest excessive weight and a potential risk of roof collapse if left unaddressed. Gregory notes that prevention remains the most effective form of roof damage prevention during Central NY winters.

Ice dams are among the most common causes of winter roofing damage. They form when melting snow refreezes along the roof edge, trapping water beneath shingles. This water seeps into attics and walls, leading to hidden rot and structural decay. Gregory advises homeowners that good attic insulation and steady ventilation are the best ways to minimize the temperature fluctuations that cause ice dams. Balanced airflow maintains consistent roof temperatures, reducing the melt-freeze cycle that can lead to both leaks and ice buildup.

Proper attic insulation also supports overall snow load roof safety by stabilizing indoor temperatures and lowering heating costs. It's not only a comfort issueâit's a core element of roof damage prevention. When paired with active snow removal using a roof rake from the ground, it ensures the structure can handle Central NY's shifting weather. Climbing onto an icy roof, however, is never recommended. Gregory warns that frozen shingles can break easily, causing further damage and creating dangerous conditions for anyone attempting to clear snow manually.

Routine roof inspection is another important step highlighted in the HelloNation piece. Before winter sets in, homeowners should schedule a professional roof inspection to identify any weak points, especially around vents, flashing, and valleys. These are the areas most prone to leaks under heavy snow and ice. Gregory suggests that addressing loose shingles, aging sealants, or small cracks early can prevent far larger problems later in the season. Regular maintenance remains the foundation of winter roofing safety in regions like Watertown, NY.

For homes with older roofs or those that have endured multiple harsh winters, Gregory recommends considering structural reinforcements. Strengthening rafters or upgrading to more durable materials can significantly increase snow load capacity. These upgrades not only improve safety but also extend a roof's lifespan, which is crucial for preventing long-term roof damage in Central NY.

Gutter maintenance also plays a crucial role in preventing ice dams and keeping roofs safe during snow loads. Clean gutters let melted snow flow freely away from the roofline, while clogged gutters can trap water and freeze along the eaves. Icicles, though common, often signal a problemâeither with insulation, ventilation, or drainage. Gregory's advice is simple: clear gutters before winter, and inspect them regularly after storms.

Every homeowner in Watertown, NY, faces the reality that Central NY winters bring unpredictable cycles of snow, ice, and freezing rain. Yet, Gregory reminds readers that preparedness is within reach. Prevent roof collapse from snow by staying proactiveâwatch for early warning signs, keep insulation effective, keep gutters clean, and schedule regular roof inspections. Homeowners can manage winter roofing challenges safely when they take these steps seriously.

The article also underlines that prevention costs far less than repair. Ignoring a sagging roof or recurring ice dam may lead to thousands of dollars in damage come spring. Consistent attention and seasonal upkeep can make the difference between a secure roof and a dangerous one. As Gregory's team at Over the Top Roofing shows, snow load roof safety starts with awareness and continues through action.

Prevent Roof Collapse from Snow and Ice This Winter features insights from Michael Majeski, a roofing expert from Watertown, 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.

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SACRAMENTO, Calif., Nov. 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- PG&E's threat to delay $2 billion in infrastructure investments, including electricity connections for 25,000 customers, amounts to bailout blackmail aimed at pressuring California lawmakers to weaken wildfire liability laws, Consumer Watchdog said today.

The utility announced the 2027 cuts immediately after lawmakers declined to grant additional wildfire liability limitations. Now PG&E is blaming the Legislature for financing problems and warning that housing developments, renewable energy projects, and other customers will face delays.

"PG&E is trying to blackmail the legislature into a bailout with threats that amount to crying wolf," said Jamie Court, Consumer Watchdog. "PG&E cannot breach its duty to serve without financial consequences for its ability to upstream profits to shareholders and its ability to get rate hikes it has already applied for. This is a short-term tactic to get a legislative bailout."

Consumer Watchdog pointed to these developments to show PG&E was "crying wolf" and that the proposed cutbacks appear not to be as severe as stated and to be a short-term pressure tactic to secure a legislative bailout.

- A letter from PG&E CEO Patti Poppe to the Assembly Utilities and Energy Committee undercuts the company's warnings of up to six-month delays in interconnections. Poppe acknowledged that PG&E currently completes new service connections in an average of 118 days, well below the California Public Utilities Commission's (CPUC) 182-day target. She also confirmed that even with the proposed delays, PG&E expects to continue meeting applicable state energization requirements. In other words, new connections now take 4 months, the state benchmark is 6 months, and PG&E intends to meet the benchmark.

- PG&E has a legal duty to serve its customers and if it fails to meet that duty it can be prevented from upstreaming dividends to its holding company and the holding company must finance the services it fails to provide. Consumer Watchdog and Every Fire Survivor's Network recently wrote state officials about this duty. (CPUC Decisions D.02-01-039)

- PG&E's proposed spending reductions are already drawing challenges. On October 23, the CPUC's Public Advocates Office filed a motion arguing that PG&E's $2 billion reduction makes its proposed 2027 revenue requirement overstated and it needs to file a new plan. The office called for the CPUC to protect customers from paying rates based on work the utility no longer plans to perform. At the same time, the CPUC is currently considering up to $456 million in interim rate recovery for PG&E beginning January 1, 2027, before the commission reaches a final decision on the utility's general rate case.

- Consumer Watchdog also questioned how much of the $2 billion in deferred work PG&E actually needs to finance. Under PG&E's own construction requirements, developers and customers requesting new service are required to cover applicable connection costs, including engineering, administration, construction materials, installation labor, and work necessary to connect new facilities to the grid. Applicants must pay applicable advances before construction begins and can hire qualified contractors to build infrastructure themselves. Renewable energy developers are also responsible for initially financing certain interconnection facilities and grid upgrades under generator interconnection agreements, although some advances are later reimbursed. PG&E has not publicly provided a project-by-project accounting identifying how much of the deferred work is already funded or financially secured by applicants.

- PG&E's financial history makes its latest claims even harder to reconcile. In 2019, the company filed for bankruptcy under the weight of billions of dollars in wildfire liabilities yet continued investing billions in its infrastructure without a major collapse in capital spending. Now, outside bankruptcy, PG&E claims it must delay $2 billion in planned investments because of wildfire liability uncertainty, even as it plans to spend another $11.4 billion on capital projects in 2027.

"PG&E cannot have it both ways," said Alex Nagy, Organizing director for Consumer Watchdog. "On one hand the utility claims it cannot afford to complete planned infrastructure projects, but on the other, it still seeks rate increases based on spending forecasts that no longer reflect its plans. PG&E continued investing during one of the worst financial crises in its history. The company has yet to demonstrate why its financial circumstances today require delaying essential connections that it continued to fund even during bankruptcy."

The company's statements raise serious questions about a short-term pressure tactic intended to secure a legislative bailout.

Consumer Watchdog said California should not reward threats to delay electricity service with another wildfire liability bailout. PG&E must meet its obligations to customers, and the CPUC must enforce them.

SOURCE Consumer Watchdog

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Hill Climb Racing 2 Turns 10: A Month of Special Events, Rewards and Surprises

Finnish mobile developer Fingersoft marks a decade of Hill Climb Racing 2 with special anniversary content celebrating the players and community that have kept the game going since its 2016 launch.

OULU, Finland, Nov. 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The anniversary celebrations will run throughout November, with each week bringing a new theme and fresh content to Hill Climb Racing 2. The celebrations kick off with Adventure: two new adventure tracks, The Great Below and The Climb, with the latter also introducing a new game mode. Shocking week follows with a new event type and special anniversary surprises, before Lore & History takes a look back with a collectible Lore Book event. The month wraps up with Conspiracy, featuring a UFO-themed event and a few hints at what might be coming to Hill Climb Racing 2 next.

Throughout the month, players can claim new free gifts every day and discover extra rewards across the Season Pass and Trophy Road. The celebrations will also visually take over the game, with anniversary-themed artwork including a logo animation, a new splash screen, and a new menu background.

Shaped by millions of players

Hill Climb Racing 2 has evolved continuously since launch through new features, vehicles, events, competitive and social elements, and player feedback. Behind that longevity is a development team faced with an unusual challenge: continually changing a game played by millions of people without losing what made those players love it in the first place.

"When we launched Hill Climb Racing 2 ten years ago, none of us could have predicted that we'd still be building it together with players a decade later. The game today is very different from the one we released in 2016, but the simple joy at its heart hasn't changed. Keeping something familiar while continuously finding ways to surprise the players has probably been the biggest lesson of these ten years," says Otto Simola, Product Marketing Manager of Hill Climb Racing 2 at Fingersoft.

That evolution has happened alongside a global player community that continues to race, compete, and create around the game. Player feedback has played an important role in shaping Hill Climb Racing 2 throughout its lifetime, from new features and vehicles to events and social elements.

"This is a fiercely competitive industry, and great games have to continuously find ways to stand out from the rest. We choose to put a lot of effort into delivering top-notch gameplay and a great player experience, and it's encouraging to see that our fans can tell the difference. We're immensely grateful to all our players for their support," says Teemu Närhi, CEO of Fingersoft.

The Hill Climb Racing 2's 10th anniversary celebrations are now ongoing in-game, on iOS and Android.

Press kit: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ASYtwuksZ4t-FpX0EnyqAqI-uJcz7lrt?usp=sharing

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Brown will lead the SEI as it drives the frontiers of software, artificial intelligence and cybersecurity research and engineering as a strategic advantage for national security.

PITTSBURGH, Nov. 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Carnegie Mellon University has named Jason M. Brown as director and chief executive officer of the Software Engineering Institute (SEI), a Department of War (DoW)-sponsored, federally funded research and development center (FFRDC) operated by the university. Brown will join CMU on Nov. 16, bringing extensive experience across military operations, the DoW and other national security agencies, academia and the defense technology industry at a pivotal moment for the institute and its mission.

For more than four decades, the SEI has brought together an understanding of national security missions, deep technical expertise and Carnegie Mellon's research strengths to address consequential challenges for the nation. As emerging technologies transform defense operations, the institute has an opportunity to expand that roleâhelping the department evaluate new capabilities, understand their potential and vulnerabilities and employ them responsibly at scale.

As director and CEO, Brown will set the SEI's strategic direction, oversee its research, engineering and technology-transition activities and serve as its principal representative to federal sponsors and partners. He will work with researchers throughout Carnegie Mellon to connect the university's strengths with emerging national security needs.

"Jason brings an exceptional breadth of experience to this role," said Theresa Mayer, CMU's vice president for research. "He understands national-security missions from the perspective of a military leader, the development and deployment of emerging technologies from his work in industry and the contributions universities can make through research and education. That combination, together with his commitment to public service, makes him exceptionally well suited to lead the SEI as it builds on its success and enters its next chapter."

Brown first worked with Carnegie Mellon and the SEI while in the Air Force, gaining an early view of how the institute connects technical expertise with national-security missions. He brings experience across each of the sectors central to the SEI's mission. He currently serves as general manager, government, at Applied Intuition, where he leads work to develop and deploy software and autonomous technologies for government and defense customers. Before joining Applied Intuition, he led Google's professional services business for defense.

Brown has held senior U.S. Air Force leadership positions focused on intelligence, emerging technology and national security. As director of the Chief of Staff of the Air Force Strategic Studies Group, he developed and implemented the service's emerging-technology strategy and founded the U.S. Air Force Artificial Intelligence Accelerator at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

He was a founding member of the Department of Defense's Joint Artificial Intelligence Center. Brown is also an adjunct assistant professor at Georgetown University, where he teaches artificial intelligence and national security.

"The most powerful results occur when researchers, military professionals and industry partners work closely enough to recognize possibilities that no one organization would identify on its own," Brown said. "The SEI can create more of those connectionsâbringing Carnegie Mellon's ideas and technical capabilities together with a deep understanding of the mission and helping turn them into capabilities that make a real difference."

Building on a Successful Legacy

Brown succeeds Paul Nielsen, who joined the SEI in 2004 and became its director and CEO later that year. Nielsen has guided the institute through more than two decades of technological change, institutional growth and expanded mission responsibility.

"It has been an honor to serve the SEI and to work alongside the individuals and leaders committed to securing our nation through advances in software, cybersecurity and AI," Nielsen said when announcing his transition. "SEI's strength has always been its ability to evolve as technology and national needs change, and I am confident the institute will continue to lead with impact and purpose in the years ahead."

Nielsen will remain engaged through the leadership transition. Carnegie Mellon will celebrate his service and contributions to the SEI and the nation at a reception in early 2027, with details to come soon.

Advancing the SEI's National Security Mission

The ability to connect research with mission needs has defined the SEI throughout its history. Its work has influenced how the DoW develops and acquires software, protects the defense industrial base, responds to cybersecurity threats and moves AI from experimental models into dependable systems.

"The SEI is exceptionally well positioned for its next chapter, with extraordinary people, deep technical capabilities and trusted partnerships with organizations in government, industry and academia," said John Gilligan, chair of the SEI Board of Visitors. "The board thanks Paul Nielsen for his superb leadership in guiding the SEI for the past 22 years and looks forward to working with Jason as he builds on that foundation, strengthens the institute's impact and positions the SEI to meet the nation's evolving needs."

With a renewed federal mandate, a record of national impact and new leadership, the SEI enters its next chapter prepared to help the nation realize the potential of emerging technologies while ensuring that the software, cybersecurity, AI and autonomous systems supporting critical missions remain secure, reliable and ready to perform.

"The SEI's impact rests on the extraordinary expertise of its people and the trust it has built across government, industry and academia," Mayer said. "With Jason's leadership, the institute is well positioned to build on its success, deepen its connections across Carnegie Mellon and continue its legacy of leadership in service to the nation."

About the Carnegie Mellon University Software Engineering Institute

The Software Engineering Institute (SEI) advances software as a strategic advantage for national security through research, development and deployment of tools, technologies and practices in software engineering, artificial intelligence (AI), cyber and acquisition transformation. We serve the nation as a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC) sponsored by the U.S. Department of War (DoW). For more information, visit the SEI website at https://www.sei.cmu.edu.

SOURCE Carnegie Mellon University Software Engineering Institute

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