Dickinson Brands Inc. Celebrates Sixth Annual National Witch Hazel Day With Multi-Brand Consumer Sweepstakes

Sister Brands T.N. Dickinson's Witch Hazel and Dickinson's Original Witch Hazel Join Forces to Celebrate the Enduring Versatility of Genuine Witch Hazel

EAST HAMPTON, Conn., Oct. 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- On October 21, Dickinson Brands Inc. will celebrate the sixth annual National Witch Hazel Day, honoring their time-tested, versatile ingredient deeply rooted in New England heritage that continues to find new relevance in skincare, personal care, first aid and everyday life.

Established by Dickinson Brands Inc. in 2021, National Witch Hazel Day celebrates the history and versatility of genuine witch hazel. This year, sister brands T.N. Dickinson's Witch Hazel First Aid and Dickinson's Original Witch Hazel skincare are inviting consumers to join the celebration with a social media sweepstakes launching on National Witch Hazel Day, October 21st, giving fans the chance to win exclusive brand merchandise and products while discovering the many ways witch hazel can fit into their routines.

Beginning October 21, consumers can join the National Witch Hazel Day celebration through the T.N. Dickinson's Witch Hazel and Dickinson's Original Witch Hazel social media channels for a chance to win a prize pack including products from both brands.

"National Witch Hazel Day is a celebration of an ingredient that is at the heart of who we are as a company," said Bryan Jackowitz, President of Dickinson Brands Inc. "Our connection to witch hazel spans more than 150 years, from its New England roots to Autumn, when the leaves fall, and dormant witch hazel plants are selectively harvested for their therapeutic properties. Through T.N. Dickinson's Witch Hazel, Dickinson's Original Witch Haze and Humphreys, we're proud to carry this legacy forward while continuing to highlight the versatility of genuine witch hazel and its many uses today."

The connection between Dickinson Brands Inc. and witch hazel dates back to 1866, when the Dickinson family began producing witch hazel in Connecticut. Today, the tradition is carried forward with witch hazel harvested in New England and transformed into an efficacious product found in medicine cabinets, bathrooms, gym bags, postpartum care kits, camping backpacks, school nurse supplies, skincare routines, among other uses.

T.N. Dickinson's Witch Hazel builds on its longstanding clinical grade first aid expertise by bringing the cleansing, soothing and treatment benefits of witch hazel to everyday care. In 2026, the brand extended its reach through a partnership with professional NASCAR driver Natalie Decker, connecting T.N. Dickinson's Witch Hazel with active, on-the-go consumers in an entirely new setting.

Dickinson's Original Witch Hazel continues to bring its iconic skincare essentials to today's beauty consumer. Through ongoing collaborations with influencers and creators, the brand shows how witch hazel can be incorporated into modern skincare routines that extend beyond facial care while staying true to the simple, effective approach that has long defined Dickinson's Original Witch Hazel.

Humphreys Witch Hazel offers certified natural and organic skincare products designed for consumers seeking effective solutions without compromise.

From October 19–25, consumers can receive 25% off sitewide at Dickinsons.com, TNDickinsons.com and Humphreysusa.com with promo code NWHD2026, plus free shipping on orders over $20 at Dickinsons.com and TNDickinsons.com and orders over $25 at Humphreys.com.

About Dickinson Brands Inc.

Dickinson Brands Inc., makers of T.N. Dickinson's Witch Hazel and Dickinson's Original Witch Hazel, is a family-owned company with over 150 years of expertise in producing products always made with 100% genuine witch hazel. With deep roots in manufacturing, the company delivers high-quality formulations across skincare, first aid and personal care categories.

Committed to harvesting using sustainable methods, Dickinson Brands Inc. uses eco-conscious practices from harvest to distillation. All products maintain clean labels, free from soaps, dyes, parabens, sulfates, phthalates and gluten.

Founded in 1866, the company continues to honor its New England heritage while embracing innovation—offering trusted products grounded in authenticity and sustainability, bringing consumers products they can trust and feel good about choosing.

For media inquiries, contact Rebel Gail Communications:

Stephanie Channell | [email protected] | 212.675.8555

SOURCE Dickinson Brands Inc.

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The Scottsdale, Arizona team, overseeing approximately $250 million in client assets, joins RFP from LPL Financial for a platform built from the ground up around AI

CHICAGO, Oct. 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Rothschild Financial Partners ("RFP"), the wealth management firm formed by Rothschild Wealth Partners and Singularity Financial Partners, today announced that Alpha Rising Wealth Management has joined the firm. Based in Scottsdale, Arizona, Alpha Rising oversees approximately $250 million in client assets and joins RFP from LPL Financial.

Alpha Rising was founded by Dustin Lester and grew into the firm it is today through the shared leadership of Dustin Lester and Jeremiah Butout. Both join Rothschild Financial Partners as Managing Directors and Partners. The team serves individuals, families and business owners with a focus on long-term, relationship-driven financial planning and investment management.

"Choosing where to serve my clients for the next decade was the most important decision I could make, and I needed a firm that truly invests in its clients through its investment platform, technology infrastructure and security," said Dustin Lester, Managing Director & Partner, Rothschild Financial Partners. "RFP is that firm."

Jeremiah Butout, also a Managing Director & Partner, added, "Dustin and I share the same vision. As a truly independent firm, RFP gives us far more investment options for our clients, an enhanced planning team and real help with estate planning. And collaborating and sharing ideas with the Rothschild team every day is great. I get to keep the autonomy to run my practice but gain a deep bench of experts. I am excited for both myself and my clients."

Three partner firms have joined Rothschild Financial Partners over the past two months.

"Dustin and Jeremiah have built a practice around exactly the kind of long-term client relationships we look for in a partner firm. Their move from LPL into RFP is a strong vote of confidence in the platform we've built," said Mac O'Brien, Chief Growth Officer, Rothschild Financial Partners.

A Platform Built for What's Next

Alpha Rising joins at a pivotal moment for RFP.

"Most of the industry is retrofitting AI onto platforms designed twenty years ago. We built Rothschild Financial Partners as a new firm so the technology could be designed around AI from the first line of code: real-time insight into every client account, an integrated bench of estate, tax, insurance, succession and retirement specialists, and a level of personalization a bolted-on system wasn't built to deliver. Dustin and Jeremiah are exactly the advisors that platform was built for, and their clients will feel the difference quickly," said Michael Roth, CEO of Rothschild Financial Partners.

It is a rare combination: the security and trust of a 118-year-old institution, paired with technology built from scratch for the way wealth management works now.

For Alpha Rising's clients, that means the same advisors they have always trusted, now backed by a dramatically more capable platform.

About Rothschild Financial Partners

Rothschild Financial Partners is a registered investment adviser with 118 years of institutional history behind it, operational infrastructure for RIAs inside it, and ownership in the hands of its partners: Rothschild Wealth Partners, Singularity Financial Partners and the advisors who join.

About Rothschild Wealth Partners

Rothschild Wealth Partners is a Chicago-based wealth management firm whose roots trace to Rothschild Investment Corporation, founded in Chicago in 1908 by Monroe Rothschild. The firm advises on more than $10 billion in combined enterprise wide assets and is owned by its clients, advisors and executives.

About Singularity Financial Partners

Singularity Financial Partners is the operations and infrastructure for RIAs. Headquartered in Henderson, Nevada, Singularity comes in alongside the principals of established RIAs and operates the firm with them, strengthening operations, technology, talent and growth.

Media Contact:

Rachel Walters

PR Assistant

Beyond AUM

800-583-2315

[email protected]

https://beyondaum.com/ 

SOURCE Rothschild Wealth Partners

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BALTIMORE, Oct. 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Richard Huffman, President and CEO of Celebree School, has been elected to the Board of Directors of the International Franchise Association (IFA), the largest organization representing franchising worldwide. Huffman will formally take his seat at the 2027 IFA Annual Convention in February and serve a three-year term. He joins a select group of franchise leaders who set the direction of the association that advocates for more than 832,000 franchise businesses across the United States.

"Richie brings invaluable experience to the IFA Board of Directors with a firsthand understanding of how franchising helps build thriving brands and supports local business ownership and jobs across the country and around the world," said Matt Haller, IFA President and CEO. "I am grateful for his commitment to IFA's mission to strengthen the franchise model at a time when the organization continues to grow and evolve."

Huffman founded Celebree School in 1994 with the guidance of his mother, an experienced early childhood educator, and spent the next 25 years building a network of company-owned schools before launching the Celebree franchise opportunity in 2019. Since then, the brand has grown rapidly. In 2024, Huffman formed Huffman Family Brands, a multi-brand parent company that unites Celebree School and its affiliated concepts under one platform. Celebree serves children from six weeks through school age with infant and toddler care, preschool, before- and after-school programs and summer camp across more than 60 locations.

That operating track record is a key reason entrepreneurs are choosing Celebree. According to Celebree School's Franchise Disclosure Document, company-operated schools open and operating throughout 2025 reported an average unit volume of $2.26 million.*

"Richie is dedicated to the betterment of the franchise business model, and his experience will provide a unique perspective to the IFA Board of Directors after years of pivotal growth for the association," said Sam Ballas, Chair of the IFA Board of Directors and CEO and Co-Founder of East Coast Wings + Grill and Sammy's Sliders. "His leadership will help IFA continue its work to advance the franchise model and expand business ownership opportunities worldwide."

Huffman's board service keeps Celebree directly connected to the national policy, legal, and industry discussions that affect franchise owners, giving the brand an informed view of the issues shaping franchising today and in the years ahead.

"Franchising gave me the chance to share something I've spent my life building with entrepreneurs who want to make a real difference in their communities, and I don't take that responsibility lightly," said Huffman. "Serving on the IFA Board is an opportunity to give back to the industry that made Celebree's growth possible and to help shape the policies that protect every franchise owner's ability to succeed. Our franchisees are small business owners first, and I'll be bringing their perspective, and the perspective of early education, to every conversation at the table."

The 2027 IFA Board of Directors brings together leaders from a wide range of businesses and professional backgrounds, reflecting the diversity of franchising and IFA's membership. According to IFA data, more than 832,000 franchise businesses in the U.S. employ nearly 9 million people and generate more than $900 billion in economic output. Franchising spans more than 300 industries and reaches nearly every community across the country.

The 2027 IFA Board of Directors brings together leaders from more than 300 industries that franchising spans, reflecting the breadth of a sector that, according to IFA data, employs nearly 9 million people in the U.S. and generates more than $900 billion in economic output.

Entrepreneurs interested in joining the Celebree School franchise system can learn more at franchise.celebree.com.

About Celebree School

Founded in 1994, Celebree School is a leader in early childhood education, offering infant and toddler care, preschool, and summer camp programs. With a mission to Grow People Big and Small™, Celebree School believes success in early childhood development is equal parts curriculum and connection. Each school employs a customized program that addresses the physical, social, emotional, and academic needs of children and follows applicable state guidelines. In 2019, Celebree School launched its franchise offering. In 2024, Celebree School's founder, Richard Huffman, launched a new parent company called Huffman Family Brands, merging Celebree affiliated concepts under one multi-brand company structure. Learn more about how we grow confident children who are prepared for school and life at Celebree.com. Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

*Based on annual financial performance results for the 26 Company-Operated Schools across Maryland and Delaware that were considered "mature" and that were operated by our affiliates that were open and operating throughout 2025. A mature school is defined as a School that has been open for at least 24 months. This information is presented in Item 19 of our April 2026 Franchise Disclosure Document along with additional financial performance data related to the performance of our outlets. If you purchase a franchise, your results may differ from the represented performance. We can't guarantee the success of any franchise and you must accept the risk of not doing as well.

About the International Franchise Association

Celebrating over 60 years of excellence, education, and advocacy, the International Franchise Association (IFA) is the world's oldest and largest organization representing franchising worldwide. IFA works through its government relations and public policy, media relations, and educational programs to protect, enhance and promote franchising and the more than 832,000 franchise establishments that support nearly 8.8 million direct jobs, $907.3 billion of economic output for the U.S. economy, and almost 3 percent of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). IFA members include franchise companies in over 300 different business format categories, individual franchisees, and companies that support the industry in marketing, law, technology, and business development.

SOURCE Celebree School

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COLUMBUS, Ohio, Oct. 19, 2026 – As energy demand grows, American Electric Power (Nasdaq: AEP) is exploring new ways to bring reliable power to the grid while prioritizing affordability for Indiana Michigan Power (I&M) customers and mitigating business risk. AEP today announced a joint development agreement with X-energy (Nasdaq: XE) to evaluate the feasibility of constructing a 960-megawatt (MW) advanced nuclear energy project at a former coal plant site in Sullivan County, Indiana. Amazon is supporting the project’s development through a funding agreement.

If the development project reaches a final investment decision and moves forward with construction and commercial operation, the completed facility would add safe, clean, reliable electricity to the grid using X-energy’s Xe-100 small modular reactor technology. Amazon intends to purchase the power under a long-term contract, covering the costs of the facility and its operations for the duration of the contract.

This collaboration combines AEP’s power generation and nuclear operating expertise, Amazon’s commitment to development capital and long-term power purchase, and X-energy’s advanced nuclear technology to explore the development of a clean, safe, long-term energy solution to benefit customers and foster economic development in Indiana.

“Advanced nuclear energy has the potential to provide dependable power for over half a century while supporting economic growth in our communities. With this development plan, we are working to bring together the resources to help meet unprecedented growth in energy demand with reliable baseload power while protecting affordability for existing customers,” said Bill Fehrman, AEP chairman, president and chief executive officer. “Our agreements with Amazon and X-energy will provide all necessary capital protections and financial safeguards that we have said are essential for any potential nuclear project to move forward.”

X-energy’s Xe-100 is an advanced nuclear technology designed to provide safe, reliable energy in a compact footprint. The initial project would include 12 Xe-100 units of 80 MW each, configured in groups of four, for a total of 960 MW.

The companies are evaluating the former site of I&M’s Breed Generating Station in Sullivan County, Indiana, as a location for the potential project. Sullivan County recently became part of the Indiana Advanced Nuclear Ready Communities Program that supports the opportunity for an advanced nuclear project.

Indiana Governor Mike Braun said, “Indiana is building an energy future that prioritizes affordability for Hoosier families and businesses while driving economic growth. The decision by I&M/AEP, Amazon and X-energy to explore this technology in one of Indiana’s counties represents the kind of innovation and investment that can deliver lasting benefits for our state. This project has the potential to create well-paying jobs in Sullivan County, strengthen our electric grid and further position Indiana as a national leader in advanced nuclear energy.”

Should the project advance beyond the development phase into construction and commercial operation, it is expected to create jobs, expand the local tax base and strengthen Indiana’s energy infrastructure for more than 60 years.

As the potential project moves forward, the companies are committed to working closely with local leaders, residents, regulators and other stakeholders.

“At Amazon, we are committed to serving the needs of our customers and achieving our Climate Pledge goal to be net-zero carbon across our operations by 2040,” said Josh Weissman, VP of Data Center Infrastructure Capacity Delivery at Amazon. “This collaboration with AEP and X-energy would enable us to make progress on both while ensuring that Indiana’s communities benefit. Together, we’re looking to develop nearly a gigawatt of carbon-free power for the regional grid and pay our full costs without passing them to others. This project would also create jobs and generate tax revenues to benefit Hoosier communities for decades to come.”

J. Clay Sell, CEO of X-energy, said, “This effort pairs AEP’s 50 years of excellence in nuclear operations with the world-class expertise of Amazon to chart a new course for Indiana’s energy future, powered by our Xe-100 small modular reactor. Together, we’re working to advance a clean, safe, reliable solution to meet growing energy demand and benefit Indiana and its communities for generations to come.”

ABOUT AEP

American Electric Power (Nasdaq: AEP) is committed to improving our customers' lives with reliable, affordable power. We plan to invest $78 billion from 2026 through 2030 to enhance service for customers and support the growing energy needs of our communities. Our nearly 18,000 employees operate and maintain the nation's largest electric transmission system with 40,000 line miles, along with more than 252,000 miles of distribution lines to deliver energy to 5.6 million customers in 11 states. AEP also is one of the nation's largest electricity producers with approximately 33,000 megawatts of diverse owned and contracted generating capacity. We are focused on safety and operational excellence, creating value for our stakeholders and bringing opportunity to our service territory through economic development and community engagement. Our family of companies includes AEP Texas, Appalachian Power (in Virginia, West Virginia and Tennessee), Indiana Michigan Power, Kentucky Power, Ohio Power Company, Public Service Company of Oklahoma, and Southwestern Electric Power Company (in Arkansas, Louisiana, east Texas and the Texas Panhandle). AEP also owns AEP Energy, which provides innovative competitive energy solutions nationwide. AEP is headquartered in Columbus, Ohio. For more information, visit aep.com.

Five Norwegian Sites Selected to Host Hybrid-Electric Aircraft Demonstrations in 2027

- Locations represent three distinct operating environments: short-runway airports, larger aviation hubs, and novel landing sites.

- First demonstration flight planned for the third quarter of 2027.

- Results will help inform future infrastructure, operational, and regulatory requirements for hybrid-electric aviation.

OSLO, Norway, Oct. 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Bristow Group Inc., together with Electra, Avinor and the Civil Aviation Authority of Norway (CAA Norway), will conduct demonstration flights with Electra's hybrid-electric EL2 technology demonstrator at five locations across Norway. Capable of taking off and landing in approximately 50 meters, the aircraft combines electric propulsion with a turbogenerator powered by sustainable aviation fuel. The project aims to generate operational, regulatory, and market knowledge to support the introduction of electric and hybrid-electric aircraft.

Three distinct operating environments

Horvnes quay near Sandnessjøen and Kongsbergporten Business Park will be used to demonstrate operations at novel landing sites where no established runways exist today. Trondheim and Oslo airports will provide experience with integrating operations into larger airport environments. Mosjøen Airport has been selected as an example of a short-runway airport in Northern Norway where the aircraft's capabilities and new approach procedures can be assessed.

"What matters is not the individual location itself, but that we are able to test the technology under different conditions and in different parts of the aviation system. This will give us insight into what is required in terms of infrastructure, airspace, procedures and regulations when new types of aircraft are ready to enter service in Norway," says Karianne Helland Strand, Executive Vice President Sustainability and Infrastructure at Avinor.

"These locations will allow us to demonstrate the capabilities and operational flexibility of Electra's ultra-short takeoff and landing aircraft across a range of operating environments while helping us better understand what will be required to safely integrate these technologies into future operations," said Dave Stepanek, Bristow Executive Vice President, Chief Transformation Officer. "With the locations now selected, we can begin detailed planning for next year's flight demonstrations."

"Electra is showing how Ultra Short aircraft can expand regional travel, connecting cities and major airport hubs, with communities and destinations without traditional runways," said Diana Siegel, Vice President of Commercial Programs at Electra. "This series of demonstrations lays the groundwork for a Direct Aviation ecosystem, bringing together regulations, policy, infrastructure, and aircraft operations to make more direct travel a practical option for more people."

"When we test new aircraft technologies in such a range of different scenarios, we will be able to assess whether the existing regulatory framework is fit for purpose. It is also valuable for us to build knowledge about how a new type of aircraft with specific characteristics can be safely integrated with other air traffic," says Jan Petter Steinland, Director of Innovation, Research and Sustainability at CAA Norway.

Preparing for testing in 2027

The project is now entering its next phase. The partners will develop the detailed test program, obtain the necessary approvals, and prepare the locations. The first demonstration flight is planned for the third quarter of 2027.

About Norway's International Test Arena

Norway's international test arena for zero- and low-emission aviation is a government initiative led by Avinor and the Civil Aviation Authority of Norway, with financial support from the Norwegian Government. The test arena is intended to contribute to the faster and more predictable introduction of new zero- and low-emission technologies through practical testing and the development of regulatory frameworks.

About the Partners

Bristow Group Inc. is a leading global provider of mission-critical aviation services for government entities, offshore energy companies, and other customers around the world. Our business is comprised of three operating segments: Offshore Energy Services (OES), Government Services and Other Services. Through the use of helicopters, fixed-wing aircraft, unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and highly skilled personnel, we provide aviation services such as personnel transportation, offshore energy logistics, search and rescue (SAR), special missions, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) operations, maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) services, medevac, unmanned systems, on-demand cargo logistics (ODC) and other specialized aviation solutions. We are also involved in various advanced air mobility (AAM) initiatives and emerging next-generation aviation technologies.

Electra

Electra.aero, Inc. (Electra) is an advanced air mobility (AAM) company building hybrid-electric Ultra Short airplanes that deliver unprecedented performance advantages to fly people and cargo seamlessly without airports, emissions, or noise. With the EL9 Ultra Short, Electra is pioneering Direct Aviation, the next level of connectivity that brings air travel closer to where we live, work, and play. Electra's Ultra Short technology delivers 2.5x the payload and 10x longer range with 70% lower operating costs than helicopters and eVTOLs with significantly greater safety and far less certification risk.

Electra's team includes some of the most respected and successful entrepreneurs and engineers in novel aircraft design, with over 40 prior aircraft successfully developed and/or certified. Lockheed Martin Ventures, HoneywellAerospace, and Safran are among Electra's strategic investors along with Prysm Capital, the Virginia Innovation Partnership Corporation (VIPC), and other private investors. Electra's contracted customers include the U.S. Air Force, the U.S. Army, the U.S. Navy, and NASA along with over 2,200 letters of intent from 60+ commercial customers, including both airlines and helicopter operators.

Avinor

Avinor is a wholly state-owned company under the Norwegian Ministry of Transport and Communications, responsible for 43 airports and Norway's air navigation services, enabling safe, efficient and more sustainable aviation.

Civil Aviation Authority Norway (Luftfartstilsynet)

The CAA's primary task is to ensure and improve safety in Norwegian aviation. CAA Norway has the responsibility to oversee and regulate all aspects of civil aviation in Norway, implementing and customising national and international legislation and regulations. We are also committed to working towards more sustainable and societally beneficial aviation.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/five-norwegian-sites-selected-to-host-hybrid-electric-aircraft-demonstrations-in-2027-302912063.html

SOURCE Bristow Group

Released October 19, 2026

NEW YORK, Oct. 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Sammaan For All is excited to announce the return of Diwali at Times Square presented by P&G and Tide and Toyota on October 24, 2026, at the Center of the Universe. Diwali at Times Square continues to convey the true meaning of Diwali by spreading the message of love, peace, harmony and togetherness.

The Consulate General of India in New York hosted a press conference on October 14, 2026, where Deputy Consul General Vishal Harsh extended his warm support to the festival celebrations.

Ambassador Binaya S. Pradhan, Consul General of India in New York, in his message, said that "Diwali celebrates the triumph of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and hope over despair. I commend Samman For All-Diwali At Times Square for bringing communities together in one of the world's most iconic public spaces to share the joy of this festival. May this celebration deepen the bonds of friendship between India and the United States; between all communities, and inspire us all to build a more compassionate and inclusive world."

Neeta Bhasin also acknowledged the Office of Community Engagement of NYC for its continued support of Diwali at Times Square's mission to celebrate the diversity of South Asia and America.

Neeta Bhasin shared the program for the upcoming celebration, starting with an Awards and Gala Dinner on October 23, 2026, at Tribeca 360, where the incredible contributions of Indian Americans in the fields of philanthropy, innovation, medicine and entrepreneurship will be honored. The gala will be followed by the Diwali at Times Square festival on October 24, 2026, bringing communities of all backgrounds together in the heart of New York City.

The festival on October 24, 2026, will feature a vibrant and engaging Diwali Bazaar as well as a dedicated Kids Zone, where children can paint diyas, create colorful rangoli art and enjoy

Bollywood dance lessons. Additionally, attendees can look forward to product sampling from vendors, educational information from partners and much more to ensure a fun-filled day for all.

The afternoon will feature the 'Colors of India and America' program, showcasing spectacular performances by Indian, Indo-Caribbean and Hispanic dance groups celebrating the festival's spirit of diversity and inclusion. In the evening, dignitaries will join together for a special Diya Lighting Ceremony with a countdown on the Ball Drop Tower screen, leading into the Light Up Times Square Concert.

The performance lineup for the 11th edition of the Diwali at Times Square concert was officially announced. The celebration will feature an exceptional mix of celebrated artists and rising stars, including Kanika Kapoor, the Filmfare Award-winning voice behind some of Bollywood's most loved dance anthems. Joining her will be Grammy-nominated Indian American rapper Raja Kumari, who continues to bring Indian art, culture and spirituality to the world stage, along with Indian Idol 13 winner Rishi Singh and Indian Idol 12 finalist Shanmukha Priya. The lineup will also feature singer-rapper and Guinness World Record holder Sparsh Shah, known as "Purhythm," New York's 'Singing Chef' Kunal Lamba and New Jersey's rising star Saanvi Nacha.

We extend our gratitude to our Presenting Sponsors, P&G and Tide and Toyota; our Platinum Sponsor, Gopi; our Gold Sponsor, Xoom by PayPal; our other key sponsors, State Bank of India; and our Media Partner, Colors TV, which will broadcast the festival on its channel. Their partnerships have been instrumental in bringing this vibrant festival to life and sharing the spirit of Diwali with the community.

'Toyota is proud to partner with Diwali at Times Square, celebrating the rich traditions, diverse experiences, and aspirations of the Indian American community. We believe in recognizing and celebrating every side of who you are, and in building meaningful connections that reflect the many ways Indians are living, growing, and expressing themselves. - Tiffany Shido, General Manager, Brand, Cross-Vehicle Line & Media, Toyota Marketing

We are deeply honored to participate in the iconic Diwali at Times Square celebration, the most vibrant and recognized festival celebrating Indian culture on the global stage. Diwali is a festival of light, hope, and togetherness - values that resonate at the heart of everything GOPI does. As a trusted dairy brand, we are proud to celebrate this sacred occasion alongside thousands of families and community members who gather to honor our shared cultural traditions. Through our participation, we reaffirm our commitment to bringing the goodness of pure, authentic ingredients to communities across the country."

"Diwali is a powerful celebration of light, hope, and community - values that resonate deeply with us at Xoom. We are proud to sponsor Diwali at Times Square and stand alongside the Indian community in honoring its rich traditions and culture. Being part of this special celebration strengthens our connection with the community and reflects our commitment to helping people stay connected to the loved ones, places, and traditions that matter most."

Neeta Bhasin the founder and creator of Diwali at Times Square expressed, "As we begin a new decade of Diwali at Times Square, we carry forward the light that our community and our partners have shared with us over the years. It is so important to instill in South Asian American youth a sense of pride in their heritage, and to show the world the values of art, culture and togetherness that Diwali stands for."

Lights shine brighter when we shine together.

For information on the festival, please contact:

- Phone: 212-216-9305 / 516-343-0181

- Email: [email protected]

- Website: www.diwalitimessquare.com

SOURCE Diwali at Times Square

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WASHINGTON, Oct. 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- USA News Group News Commentary - Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said on Saturday that tests showed Starlink-equipped drones lost their connection when flying faster than about 100 mph inside Ukraine, while Starlink terminals moving at more than 112 mph inside the European Union worked normally. "In other words, this is a planned operation," he said. No one in Washington or at SpaceX has claimed the decision. Most U.S.-listed space stocks fell sharply last week, while Europe's only low Earth orbit broadband rival to SpaceX had its best day in 16 months. Active Companies from around the markets with current developments this week include: Space Exploration Technologies Corp. (NASDAQ: SPCX), AST SpaceMobile, Inc. (NASDAQ: ASTS), Iridium Communications Inc. (NASDAQ: IRDM), Rocket Lab Corporation (NASDAQ: RKLB), Eutelsat Communications SA (Euronext Paris: ETL).

The restrictions reportedly cover both Starlink and Starshield, SpaceX's military-use service, which Ukraine relies on for communications, logistics, live drone video and targeting. The Telegraph reported on Oct. 16, citing four unnamed sources, that Elon Musk approached President Trump with the idea of slowing Starlink in Ukraine and that Trump "agreed." Musk said on X that speed or usage limits on Starshield "are decided by the US military and ultimately POTUS." Trump told reporters, "it wasn't me, and I don't think it was Elon."

Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Saturday, "We had nothing to do with it. Nobody ordered that Starlink speed to be slowed down. It sorta happened." He also said Starshield was not available to Ukraine, which Yahoo Finance noted conflicts with a late 2024 Pentagon contract that expanded Ukraine's Starshield access from about 500 to roughly 3,000 terminals. Speaking on NBC's Meet the Press on Sunday, Zelenskyy said, "Just give us back Starlink."

Europe is paying close attention. The European Union is working to develop its own alternative to Starlink, and on Sunday the U.S. ambassador to the EU threatened "devastating" retaliation if the bloc advanced a proposal favoring EU-made satellites over companies like SpaceX, Yahoo Finance reported.

CONTINUED... Read this and more news for the space sector at: usanewsgroup.com

In other industry developments and happenings in the market this week include:

Space Exploration Technologies Corp. (NASDAQ: SPCX)

Shares of SpaceX fell 10.17% last week, from $162.57 at the Oct. 9 close to $146.03 on Oct. 16, according to Stock Analysis data, though they remain above the $135 price of the company's June initial public offering. Starlink, a core part of SpaceX's business, has more than 13 million subscribers worldwide, and Yahoo Finance noted this is the first throttling episode since the company went public.

SpaceX has limited service in Ukraine before. In 2023, President and COO Gwynne Shotwell acknowledged the company could restrict how Ukraine used Starlink, saying, "There are things that we can do, and have done." Musk said on X last week that Starlink "is limited to civilian or defensive activities."

AST SpaceMobile, Inc. (NASDAQ: ASTS)

AST SpaceMobile, which is building a space-based cellular broadband network that connects directly to standard smartphones, fell 20.23% last week, from $50.97 to $40.66. On Oct. 13, Piper Sandler downgraded the stock to Neutral from Overweight and cut its price target to $54 from $98, citing SpaceX's direct-to-cell ambitions after its agreement to acquire Grain Management's 800 MHz spectrum for about $8 billion, subject to regulatory approval.

Piper warned that SpaceX could, in theory, limit launch opportunities for competitors such as AST and pressure pricing by competing with telecom operators. Not every analyst agreed. Deutsche Bank upgraded the shares to Buy on Oct. 12 with a $93 target, and Clear Street reiterated a Buy rating with a $115 target, arguing AST is about six months ahead of SpaceX in direct-to-cell.

Iridium Communications Inc. (NASDAQ: IRDM)

Iridium announced on Oct. 14 that Altair Semiconductor is adding Iridium NTN Direct to its ALT1350 and ALT1550 cellular IoT chipsets, letting device makers, module makers and mobile network operators add satellite coverage without a separate satellite modem. "Iridium is offering device manufacturers a powerful new way to develop connected products," said Tim Last, executive vice president at Iridium.

Iridium stockholders approved the company's acquisition by Rocket Lab on Sept. 24, with about 99.6% of votes cast in favor. Each Iridium share is to be exchanged for $27.00 in cash plus Rocket Lab stock based on an exchange ratio subject to a collar, for a notional value of $54.00 per share, and the deal is expected to close by mid-2027, subject to remaining regulatory approvals. Iridium shares fell 7.82% last week, from $47.47 to $43.76.

Rocket Lab Corporation (NASDAQ: RKLB)

Rocket Lab shares fell 25.47% last week, from $68.21 to $50.84, after founder and CEO Sir Peter Beck said in a video posted to YouTube that the first launch of the company's Neutron rocket would move from late 2026 into 2027. Inspectors found voids in the carbon-fiber layers of a recently made forward propellant dome after curing, according to Space.com.

Beck said the voids "don't necessarily mean that the dome would fail in flight," but added, "Possible success isn't our standard." Rocket Lab expects to finish a new forward dome by the end of the year and complete first-stage testing in the first quarter of 2027, after which Beck said the company expects to be "in good shape to share a new target launch date."

Eutelsat Communications SA (Euronext Paris: ETL)

Eutelsat shares jumped 23% on Oct. 14, the stock's biggest one-day gain in 16 months, Reuters reported, after Ukraine said Starlink had introduced restrictions on its military-grade service. Eutelsat's OneWeb network has more than 600 satellites in low Earth orbit, compared with about 10,000 for Starlink, and it is the only company besides SpaceX providing space-based internet through a low Earth orbit network. Bernstein analyst Aleksander Peterc said the news put European providers "back in the spotlight as potential alternatives."

Not everyone sees an easy swap. Existing Starlink users cannot simply switch to OneWeb, since a transition would require new terminals and supporting infrastructure, and independent consultant Christian Freiherr von der Ropp said "considering it as a straightforward substitute overlooks significant operational and infrastructure constraints."

Space stocks swung hard on headlines last week. Learn to read the charts behind moves like these with the free Stock Preachers guide, plus The Roadmap market reports, at stockpreachers.com.

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Babiec will help to accelerate VIA's mission to secure data and AI for community safety, resilience, and prosperity.

BOSTON, Oct. 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- VIA Science, Inc. (VIA), a leading software provider to defense, law enforcement, and humanitarian organizations, today announced the appointment of Joe Babiec as Chief Mission Officer. Babiec, who joined VIA in 2018 and was most recently VIA's Chief Commercial Officer, will now lead efforts to accelerate VIA's mission impact with its customers and the communities it serves.

As Chief Mission Officer, Babiec will accelerate VIA's effectiveness both internally and externally. Internally, he will ensure VIA's customer and partner decisions support the company's mission to secure data and AI for community safety, resilience, and prosperity. Externally, Babiec will raise awareness of VIA's impact as the company rapidly scales across the globe.

"Joe brings a rare combination of commercial and public policy experience along with an understanding of the consequences technologies can have for communities. He embodies a key VIA value of 'respect a challenge and challenge with respect," said Colin Gounden, co-founder and CEO of VIA. "This newly created role gives Joe the mandate to ensure we live up to our 'no compromise' ethos in the increasingly complex and volatile markets in which we operate. He will also help us convey the impact of our work to the policymakers, industry leaders, and the communities VIA supports."

Babiec is excited to take on this leadership challenge. "I've been fortunate in my career to help many organizations align mission, strategy, and operations to achieve positive outcomes in the communities they serve. As VIA's Chief Mission Officer, I'm grateful to be working in partnership with premier organizations to address some of the world's most pressing challenges through the responsible use of artificial intelligence and other advanced digital technologies."

Babiec has three decades of experience as a strategic advisor, an entrepreneur, an early-stage venture investor, and a private equity company board member. Babiec has worked extensively with senior corporate, government, non-profit, labor, media, and other stakeholders in the U.S. and globally. Joe is a graduate of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and the London School of Economics.

About VIA

Headquartered in Boston, VIA provides mission-critical software for secure data exchange and trustworthy AI without compromising speed, simplicity, or resilience. Its military-grade architecture helps defense, public safety agencies, and humanitarian organizations use AI while maintaining control of sensitive, distributed data even in contested or offline environments.

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- New data revealed at PACK EXPO finds U.S. consumer packaged goods (CPG) and life sciences manufacturers are adopting AI faster than their global peers

- Schneider Electric spotlights how digital and open automation tech establish the foundation for AI-enabled, connected manufacturing

CHICAGO, Oct. 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Schneider Electric, a global energy technology leader, today revealed new data showcasing that U.S. CPG and life sciences manufacturers are leading in industrial AI adoption globally at PACK EXPO International 2026. Throughout the event, Schneider Electric will discuss how industrial intelligence solutions and open, software-defined automation help manufacturers establish an AI-enabled foundation to improve productivity, increase operational flexibility, and build more connected, resilient operations amid the rise in industrial AI adoption.

Manufacturers in the consumer-packaged goods (CPG) and packaging industries face rising customer expectations, market volatility, workforce challenges, and ongoing pressure to improve efficiency. As an automation and energy tech partner, Schneider Electric will host engagements throughout the week to showcase how automation, electrification, software, and data can work together to help address these challenges and create more flexible, future-ready operations.

"Manufacturers are being asked to increase productivity, adapt faster, and do more with the resources they have," said Greg Magdanz, Vice President of OEM Sales, Schneider Electric. "U.S. CPG and life sciences manufacturers are leading their global peers in adopting next-generation technologies at scale, and our data confirms that momentum. By connecting automation, data, and digital technologies, manufacturers can convert early AI adoption into production efficiencies, stronger operational resilience, and better outcomes for their customers."

Supplementing the company's previous global Beyond the Hype: Practical AI for Competitive Consumer Goods Manufacturing are newly released insights from a representative survey conducted by Censuswide of 252 senior manufacturing decisionmakers, which shows the pace of U.S. AI adoption and the operational pressures driving investment:

- AI is already more deeply embedded in U.S. operations. Among 1,400+ executives surveyed worldwide, 13% of global CPG manufacturers say AI is embedded end to end in core operations and decision-making today, compared with 29% in the U.S.—more than twice the global figure.

- In the U.S., 52% of CPG manufacturers have deployed AI across multiple sites or processes, compared with 27% globally.

- By 2030, 67% of U.S. respondents expect AI to be core to their operations, compared with 37% of respondents globally.

- Operational losses are higher in the U.S. U.S. CPG manufacturers estimate that downtime, waste, delays, rework, and suboptimal asset use cost them 20% of potential manufacturing revenue, compared with a 15% global average.

- Those losses are expected to rise to 27% in the U.S. by 2027, compared with 21% globally, and to 34% by 2030, compared with 29% globally — signaling growing cost pressure and operational fragility.

The findings reveal that U.S. manufacturers are moving faster on AI. At the same time, they face greater exposure to operational losses as domestic labor shortages, aging infrastructure, and higher compliance burdens intensify the pressure. To capture the full value of AI, manufacturers must pair AI adoption with foundational investments in connected, contextualized data, open automation and industrial intelligence solutions that turn insight into action and enable continuous innovation. This pathway to future-proofing operations is exactly what Schneider Electric will address during the "Open, Connected, and Human-Centered: The Future of Industrial Operations" session on Sunday, October 18 — and in conversations throughout PACK EXPO International 2026. Through its extensive network of OEMs, Machine Builders and Alliance Partners, Schneider Electric connects technology with deep application expertise, helping manufacturers turn innovation into smarter machines, more adaptable production, and measurable operational outcomes.

About Schneider Electric

Schneider Electric is a global energy technology leader, driving efficiency and sustainability by electrifying, automating, and digitalizing industries, businesses, and homes. Its technologies enable buildings, data centers, factories, infrastructure, and grids to operate as open, interconnected ecosystems, enhancing performance, resilience, and sustainability. The portfolio includes intelligent devices, software-defined architectures, AI-powered systems, digital services, and expert advisory. With 160,000 employees and 1 million partners in over 100 countries, Schneider Electric is consistently ranked among the world's most sustainable companies.

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Learn more about Advancing Energy Tech on Schneider Electric Insights.

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Understanding What Affects How Long a Roof Lasts in Michigan Helps Homeowners Plan Ahead and Avoid Costly Emergency Replacements

GRAND HAVEN, Mich., Oct. 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- How long should a roof last in Michigan, and what factors most affect that timeline? HelloNation has published an article that answers this question and explains what homeowners need to know about roof lifespan Michigan weather conditions and installation quality directly influence.

The HelloNation article explains that asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material in Michigan, and under good conditions with proper installation and adequate ventilation, they typically last between 20 and 30 years. Three-tab shingles tend to land at the lower end of that range. Architectural shingles, which are thicker and more durable, often perform closer to the 25- to 30-year mark.

Installation quality has a significant effect on how long a roof holds up. The article notes that shingles that were not properly fastened, or that were installed without adequate underlayment, are more vulnerable to wind and water intrusion from the start. A roof installed correctly by an experienced contractor will almost always outlast one that was done quickly or at reduced cost, even when the materials are identical.

Ventilation is described in the article as one of the most overlooked factors in roof lifespan Michigan homeowners should pay attention to. When attic heat has no path to escape, it builds up and bakes the shingles from below. In summer, this accelerates the breakdown of the asphalt and causes shingles to crack, curl, or blister ahead of schedule. Proper ridge and soffit ventilation keeps attic temperatures lower and dramatically extends the life of the roofing materials above.

Ice dams are covered in the article as a specific and recurring threat in Grand Haven and across West Michigan. They form when heat escaping through the roof melts snow near the peak, and that meltwater refreezes as it reaches the colder eaves. The article notes that ice dams Grand Haven homeowners deal with over multiple winters can saturate the decking, damage the underlayment, and cause leaks that are difficult to trace back to their source.

Storm damage is another factor the article addresses. A severe hailstorm can strip granules from asphalt shingles across an entire roof, and those granules protect the asphalt layer from UV exposure and moisture. Once they are gone, the shingles degrade faster and the roof's remaining lifespan shortens noticeably. The article recommends having the roof inspected promptly after a significant hail event rather than waiting to see if problems develop.

Roofing Expert Joe Ray's insights inform the article's section on moss and algae growth, which are common in shaded areas of a roof where moisture lingers. Moss holds moisture against the shingle surface and accelerates deterioration. North-facing roof sections in particular can develop biological growth in neighborhoods with significant tree coverage.

Roofing Expert Joe Ray is featured in the article's guidance that homeowners schedule an inspection every two to three years and after any major storm. Routine maintenance, the article explains, is far less costly than premature replacement, and for homeowners navigating the demanding conditions that affect roof lifespan Michigan winters produce, a proactive approach makes a meaningful financial difference over time.

How Long Does a Roof Last in Michigan, and What Shortens Its Lifespan? features insights from Joe Ray, Roofing Expert of Grand Haven, Michigan, 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 with storytelling, HelloNation delivers expert-driven, good-news 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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