Arrival of five partners â Jason Bennett, Matthew Fusina, Thomas Holmberg, Jessica Adkins, and Charles (Chase) Armbrust â brings elite project development and finance capabilities across LNG, power, renewables, data centers, oil and gas, and other critical energy and infrastructure sectors.

HOUSTON, Nov. 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Latham & Watkins LLP is pleased to announce that Jason Bennett, Matthew Fusina, Thomas Holmberg, Jessica Adkins, and Charles (Chase) Armbrust have joined the firm as partners in the Project Development & Finance Practice. The five-partner group expands Latham's project development and finance capabilities at a time of growing demand for sophisticated advice across the full life cycle of energy and infrastructure projects, including LNG, power, renewables, data centers, oil and gas, and other critical energy and infrastructure sectors.

The group includes:

- Bennett, Fusina, and Holmberg, widely regarded as one of the world's leading project development teams for complex energy and infrastructure projects across the globe. Bennett, Fusina, and Holmberg join Latham from Baker Botts.

- Adkins, one of the foremost lawyers in her field, advises on electric power and renewable energy transactions, including power purchase agreements, complex offtake arrangements, commodity hedging, and power supply matters for data centers. Adkins joins Latham from Sidley Austin.

- Armbrust, a highly regarded energy and infrastructure finance lawyer, focuses on debt financing for energy and infrastructure projects, with significant experience in utility-scale and distributed solar, wind, fuel cell, biomass, and thermal power projects. Armbrust joins Latham from Orrick.

"We are delighted to welcome Jason, Matt, Tom, Jessica, and Chase to Latham," said Rich Trobman, Chair and Managing Partner of Latham & Watkins. "They are proven leaders and highly accomplished practitioners in the energy and infrastructure sector, and their decision to join Latham is further evidence that we continue to be the destination of choice for the market's top talent. This is a time of unprecedented innovation across the energy and infrastructure sector, and no other firm can match our cutting-edge practice, which is leading the way in transforming a truly dynamic and rapidly evolving market."

Justin T. Stolte, Global Chair of Latham's Energy & Infrastructure Group, said: "Whether in AI infrastructure, LNG, power, or other critical energy and infrastructure investments, our clients increasingly need advisors who can support every facet of their projects. The arrival of this group was a strategic opportunity to strengthen our ability to meet that demand, expanding the depth and breadth of our market-leading projects practice in energy and infrastructure."

"With the accelerating pace, focus, and demand for sophisticated project development and finance advice on energy and infrastructure investments across the globe, we are excited to add these five leading partners to our world-class Project Development & Finance platform," added Chirag Dedania, Global Co-Chair of Latham's Project Development & Finance Practice. "They strengthen our ability to support clients across the full project life cycle and place us even more clearly at the forefront of the global energy and infrastructure sector."

"We are thrilled to welcome this exceptional group to our firm," said Nick Dhesi, Managing Partner of Latham's Houston office. "Their arrival marks a significant expansion of our energy and infrastructure capabilities in Texas. Their practices are highly complementary to our existing platform in Houston and around the world, and are further evidence of our aggressive plans in Texas."

Bennett received his JD from Georgetown University Law Center and his BA from The University of Texas. Fusina received his JD from the University of Virginia School of Law and his BA from the University of Virginia. Holmberg received his JD from Georgetown University Law Center and his BA from the University of Arizona. Adkins received her JD from The University of Texas School of Law and her BS in Chemical Engineering from Rice University. Armbrust received his JD from the University of Michigan Law School and his BA from The University of Texas at Austin.

About Latham & Watkins (lw.com)

Latham & Watkins is a leading global law firm that brings together exceptional legal talent in financial centers around the world to advise on complex transactions, litigation, and regulatory matters. The firm's deep market and product knowledge, industry experience, vast scale, and commitment to innovation and excellence help clients navigate their most critical challenges and achieve their goals.

Contacts

Rich Trobman, Chair and Managing Partner, +1.212.906.1200

Nick Dhesi, Houston Office Managing Partner, +1.713.546.7409

Justin T. Stolte, Global Chair, Energy & Infrastructure Group, +1.713.546.7966

Chirag Dedania, Global Co-Chair, Project Development and Finance Practice, +1.212.906.1693

SOURCE Latham & Watkins

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The article explains why addressing repairs early helps commercial property owners reduce long-term costs and protect property value.

CHARLESTON, S.C., Nov. 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- What happens when commercial property owners delay needed repairs? HelloNation answers that question in an article featuring insights from Commercial Property Management Expert Courtenay Brack of Charleston Green Commercial, LLC in Charleston, South Carolina.

The article explains that postponing repairs may appear to reduce expenses in the short term, but deferred maintenance often results in substantially higher costs over time. According to the HelloNation article, delaying repairs can lead to larger construction projects, operational disruptions, and declining property value that consistent upkeep could have avoided.

Commercial buildings depend on numerous systems that are designed to perform reliably for decades when properly maintained. The article notes that roofs, HVAC systems, parking lots, plumbing infrastructure, elevators, and exterior finishes all require routine inspections and scheduled servicing. Small maintenance issues rarely remain isolated when they are left unresolved. Instead, they often spread to surrounding building components, increasing both the complexity and the cost of future repairs.

The HelloNation article highlights roof leaks as one example of how deferred maintenance can escalate. A small leak may initially appear insignificant, but over time it can damage insulation, ceilings, electrical systems, and tenant improvements. Likewise, aging HVAC components that could have been repaired during routine service may eventually fail completely, requiring costly system replacements instead of relatively inexpensive repairs. The article explains that these situations demonstrate why preventive maintenance consistently provides greater value than emergency response.

Commercial Property Management Expert Courtenay Brack's featured insights also highlight how maintenance affects tenant satisfaction. Businesses rely on safe, comfortable, and dependable spaces to serve customers and operate efficiently. The article explains that recurring equipment failures, poor climate control, water intrusion, or deteriorating common areas can affect tenant confidence and increase the likelihood of lease turnover. Stable occupancy supports reliable income and helps owners avoid the additional costs of vacant space.

Emergency repairs often involve expenses beyond the construction work itself. According to the article, after-hours labor, expedited material delivery, temporary tenant accommodations, and interruptions to business operations all contribute to higher overall costs. The article explains that planning routine maintenance helps commercial property owners avoid many of these unexpected financial burdens while allowing repairs to be completed under more favorable conditions.

The article also discusses the importance of life cycle planning for long-term property performance. Every major building component has an expected service life, and regular condition assessments help owners forecast future replacement needs. Developing reserve funding and budgeting for improvements before systems fail allows owners to spread capital expenses over time instead of responding to emergencies that require immediate funding.

Commercial Property Management Expert Courtenay Brack's featured article further explains that professional property managers support owners by coordinating inspections, documenting building conditions, prioritizing repairs, and recommending maintenance schedules based on observed performance. This proactive approach gives owners better information for decision-making while helping preserve building systems and manage operating costs more effectively.

The article concludes that building condition also influences insurance considerations, financing opportunities, and marketability. Buyers and lenders often review maintenance history before closing, and well-maintained properties generally perform better operationally with fewer unexpected capital expenses. The article explains that consistent maintenance protects investments by supporting tenant satisfaction, preserving property value, and reducing long-term financial uncertainty for commercial property owners.

Why Delaying Commercial Property Repairs Costs More features insights from Courtenay Brack, a commercial property management expert in Charleston, South Carolina, in HelloNation.

About HelloNation

HelloNation is America's Good News Network, a premier media platform built on the idea that good news travels faster when real people tell real stories. Through its community-focused publications and innovative "edvertising" approach, HelloNation delivers content that informs, inspires, and spotlights the leaders making a meaningful impact in their communities.

SOURCE HelloNation

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RIDGELAND, Miss., Nov. 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- What should Mississippi buyers know before purchasing their first home? A HelloNation article explores this topic in depth, outlining how planning ahead can help first-time homebuyers in Ridgeland and surrounding areas better understand and manage homeownership expenses from day one.

In the feature, Ridgeland, MS, Real Estate Expert Steve Houck of Real Estate Partners, shares practical insights to help buyers prepare for more than just their monthly mortgage payments. As the article explains, understanding the full cost of owning a home in Mississippi can lead to better financial decisions and fewer surprises after closing.

One of the article's key points is the importance of early awareness. Many first-time buyers focus narrowly on loan terms or down payments, but the true financial journey includes expenses such as Mississippi property taxes, homeowners' insurance, utilities, and home maintenance. Real Estate Expert Steve Houck emphasizes that preparation doesn't eliminate these costs but makes them far more manageable.

Mississippi's relatively low property tax rates are often seen as a benefit, yet the article explains that changes in a home's value or upgrades can increase future assessments. For those researching the first-time homebuyer cost breakdown in Ridgeland, MS, understanding how tax rates are calculated and what may cause them to rise is essential for long-term planning.

Insurance is another critical piece of the puzzle. As the HelloNation article outlines, homeowners' insurance rates depend on multiple local factors, including weather risks and the property's condition. Ridgeland's location in central Mississippi means that storm exposure and aging roofs can both raise premiums. Some buyers may also need to consider flood coverage, even if it's not formally required.

The article also addresses home maintenance costs, which can catch new homeowners off guard. Mississippi's climateâhot summers and high humidity can speed up wear on roofs, HVAC systems, and exteriors. Houck notes that building a maintenance fund is one of the smartest decisions a buyer can make. Planning for irregular repairs and routine servicing helps protect the home's value and maintain comfortable living conditions.

Beyond maintenance, the feature dives into monthly utility expenses. Buyers often underestimate these costs, especially in larger or older homes. By examining past utility bills or conducting thorough inspections, first-time buyers can more accurately anticipate these costs and avoid budget strain. This is especially useful for anyone exploring Ridgeland, MS, real estate for the first time.

For those evaluating the full picture of homeownership expenses in Mississippi, Houck's guidance offers more than just financial advice. It encourages a mindset of readiness. As the article notes, those who plan ahead experience less stress and more satisfaction in their new homes. The result is a smoother transition into ownership and a stronger sense of control over household finances.

The article explains that buyers who understand the costs of owning a home are better equipped to make upgrades, tackle repairs, and handle seasonal expenses. This approach fosters confidence and prevents homeownership from becoming an ongoing source of worry.

Homeownership in Mississippi is not just about affording a mortgage. It's about anticipating the real, recurring expenses that come with living comfortably and maintaining value over time. The HelloNation article stresses that informed planning helps first-time buyers thriveânot just survive in their new homes.

The Hidden Wins of Planning Ahead for Mississippi Homebuyers features insights from Real Estate Expert Steve Houck, Real Estate Partners of Ridgeland, MS, in HelloNation.

About HelloNation

HelloNation is America's Good News Network, a premier media platform built on the idea that good news travels faster when real people tell real stories. Through its community-focused publications and innovative "edvertising" approach, HelloNation delivers content that informs, inspires, and spotlights the leaders making a meaningful impact in their communities.

SOURCE HelloNation

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AirGuard software and compatible detection systems support airspace awareness for public safety agencies, critical infrastructure operators, and enterprise security teams

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., Nov. 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- XTI Aerospace, Inc. (Nasdaq: XTIA) ("XTI Aerospace," "XTI," or the "Company"), an aerospace and advanced technology platform and parent company of Drone Nerds, LLC ("Drone Nerds"), a drone solutions platform serving commercial, enterprise, and government customers, today announced a partnership with AirSight, a drone detection and airspace security software solutions provider, to expand Drone Nerds' drone detection offerings within its enterprise solutions portfolio.

The partnership broadens the options available to customers seeking greater visibility into drone activity around their facilities and operations. AirSight's solutions combine compatible detection systems with its AirGuard software platform. Intended applications include law enforcement, critical infrastructure, correctional facilities, higher education campuses, and sports and entertainment venues.

AirGuard brings data from compatible detection sensors into a unified interface, providing security teams with real-time alerts and information to assess detected drone activity. Solutions can be configured for individual facilities, campuses, or multiple locations based on customer requirements.

"AirSight strengthens our drone detection portfolio and enhances our ability to serve the security needs of enterprise and government organizations," said Jeremy Schneiderman, Interim CEO of XTI Aerospace. "This partnership supports our growth strategy by opening doors to new customers and broadening our role across drone operations and airspace security."

Expanding Security Awareness into the Airspace

AirSight's approach allows organizations to add drone detection capabilities alongside their existing security infrastructure. Its hardware-agnostic AirGuard platform integrates compatible detection technologies and can support connections with existing security and command systems, subject to technical compatibility.

The partnership will focus on helping customers evaluate their airspace monitoring needs and identify appropriate solutions, including:

- Drone Detection and Alerts: Detection of drone activity within system coverage, with real-time notifications to designated security personnel.

- Centralized Monitoring: A unified software interface that brings together information from compatible detection sensors.

- Scalable Configurations: Solutions tailored to individual sites or multiple locations, with the ability to expand as requirements evolve.

- Integration Support: Evaluation of compatible connections with existing security systems to incorporate drone detection information into operational workflows.

Available information and detection performance depend on the selected sensors, drone characteristics, site conditions, and system configuration.

"Drone detection gives security teams an additional layer of awareness beyond their ground-based perimeter," said Robert Tabbara, CEO and Founder of AirSight. "Working with Drone Nerds allows us to introduce these capabilities to more enterprise and public safety organizations and help them evaluate solutions suited to their facilities, existing systems, and operational priorities."

Availability

Customers can contact Drone Nerds' enterprise team to discuss AirSight drone detection solutions, available configurations, and pricing. Drone Nerds' team will work with AirSight specialists to evaluate customer requirements and discuss deployment options.

For more information, visit enterprise.dronenerds.com.

About XTI Aerospace, Inc.

XTI Aerospace, Inc. ("XTI") (Nasdaq: XTIA) is focused on building a leading platform for commercial and government drone adoption in the growing unmanned aircraft systems ("UAS") industry. Through its subsidiary, Drone Nerds, LLC, XTI supports enterprise and government customers in sectors including public safety, agriculture, construction, and energy across the drone program lifecycle, from hardware sourcing and deployment to training, service, repair, and the proprietary Always Flying⢠program. Its established U.S. customer base and reputation as a trusted solutions provider position the company as a go-to-market partner for drone manufacturers and software developers seeking to scale in the domestic market.

For more information about XTI, please visit xtiaerospace.com and follow XTI on LinkedIn, Instagram, X, and YouTube.

About Drone Nerds

Drone Nerds, LLC, a subsidiary of XTI Aerospace, Inc. (Nasdaq: XTIA), provides comprehensive drone solutions for enterprise, private and recreational needs. Established in 2014, Drone Nerds focuses on helping customers deploy the right UAS solutions for their unique operational requirements. Through its proprietary Always Flying⢠program, Drone Nerds focuses on delivering enhanced reliability and assurance for enterprise implementations across industry verticals, including public safety, government, agriculture, construction, insurance, energy, inspection, and more.

For more information, visit enterprise.dronenerds.com.

About AirSight

AirSight provides drone detection and airspace security software solutions. Its AirGuard platform integrates data from compatible detection sensors to provide real-time alerts and visibility into drone activity. Depending on sensor configuration and available data, the platform can provide drone and pilot location information to help security teams assess activity and inform their response.

For more information, visit airsight.com.

Contacts:

General inquiries:

Email: [email protected]

Web: https://xtiaerospace.com/contact

Investor Relations:

[email protected]

SOURCE XTI Aerospace, Inc.

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What Does Duolingo, Inc.'s 25.49% Stock Drop Mean for Investors? The Law Offices of Howard G. Smith Outlines Securities Fraud Class Action Lead Plaintiff Deadline

Suit alleges Duolingo, Inc. failed to disclose key facts to investors from May 2, 2025 through February 26, 2026; lead plaintiff deadline is December 7, 2026

BENSALEM TOWNSHIP, Pa., Nov. 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The Law Offices of Howard G. Smith today reported that a securities class action lawsuit is pending against Duolingo, Inc. ("Duolingo" or the "Company") (NASDAQ: DUOL) on behalf of investors who acquired its securities from May 2, 2025 through February 26, 2026. The Duolingo, Inc. case, City of Dearborn Heights Act 345 Police & Fire Retirement System v. Duolingo, Inc. et al., was filed on October 7, 2026 in the U.S. District Court Western District of Pennsylvania (Pittsburgh) (Case No. 2:26-cv-02197).

Investors with losses on Duolingo, Inc. securities can contact the Law Offices of Howard G. Smith about the Duolingo, Inc. lawsuit before the December 7, 2026 lead plaintiff deadline.

Key deadlines and dates for Duolingo, Inc. investors

- Lead plaintiff deadline: December 7, 2026

- Class period: May 2, 2025 through February 26, 2026

- Complaint filed: October 7, 2026

What happened?

On November 5, 2025, Duolingo, Inc. announced its financial results for the third quarter of 2025. It disclosed that growth in daily active users had slowed for yet another consecutive quarter, falling to 36% from 40% in the second quarter of 2025 and 49% in the first quarter of 2025. The Company also disclosed that it was retreating from its push to increase monetization. It stated that it would now place user growth ahead of monetization and that it needed to invest more heavily in "teaching better across all our subjects."

On this news, Duolingo, Inc. stock fell $66.28 or 25.49%, to close at $193.74 on November 6, 2025, thereby injuring investors.

Then, on January 12, 2026, Duolingo, Inc. disclosed the resignation of its Chief Financial Officer, Matthew Skaruppa. In the same announcement, the Company released limited preliminary operating metrics for the fourth quarter of 2025, which showed growth in daily active users of only 30%. This was a further slowdown of six percentage points from the third quarter of 2025.

On this news, the price of Duolingo, Inc. stock fell $14.92 or 8.45%, to close at $161.74 on January 12, 2026, thereby further injuring investors.

Finally, on February 26, 2026, Duolingo, Inc. released its financial results for the fourth quarter of 2025. The results confirmed the slowdown in daily active user growth and showed that the financial effects of the Company's change in strategy would not be "small" or "little." Instead, they would materially harm its 2026 bookings, daily active user growth rates, revenue, and adjusted EBITDA.

On this news, the price of Duolingo, Inc. stock fell $16.45 or 14.01%, to close at $101 on February 27, 2026, thereby further injuring investors.

What is the Duolingo, Inc. lawsuit about?

The Duolingo, Inc. securities lawsuit alleges that, between May 2, 2025 and February 26, 2026, defendants made materially false and/or misleading statements and failed to disclose material adverse facts about Duolingo, Inc.'s business, operations, and prospects. Specifically, the complaint alleges defendants failed to disclose that: (1) Daily Active User ("DAU") growth rates were being leveraged against deliberately added user friction in the form of significant increases in ad volume, subscription tier upsells, and worsened product quality, and defendants understood that any amount of user friction would cause users to leave the app and, ultimately, negatively impact DAU growth rates; (2) Duolingo's rigorous A/B testing demonstrated to defendants that increased friction in the free user experience was having negative impacts on DAU growth rates; (3) Duolingo's quickly generated AI content was worsening the quality of Duolingo's product offerings, negatively impacting the user experience and user trends, and threatening the sustainability of Duolingo's financial performance; (4) far from driving sustained growth and strong user momentum through content and "product improvements" that "get improved retention," Duolingo's constant A/B testing informed Duolingo that its monetization push and lower-quality, rapidly generated AI content were degrading the Duolingo product experience and the value proposition of its subscription tiers; and (5) as a result, defendants' positive statements about Duolingo, Inc.'s business, operations, and prospects were materially misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis.

"The lawsuit against Duolingo, Inc. alleges that, among other things, the Company failed to tell investors that Daily Active User ("DAU") growth rates were being leveraged against deliberately added user friction in the form of significant increases in ad volume, subscription tier upsells, and worsened product quality, and defendants understood that any amount of user friction would cause users to leave the app and, ultimately, negatively impact DAU growth rates. Duolingo, Inc. investors who bought during the class period may be able to pursue their losses, and the December 7, 2026 deadline is where that process begins," said Howard G. Smith of The Law Offices of Howard G. Smith.

Next steps for Duolingo, Inc. investors

Duolingo, Inc. investors who suffered losses may contact The Law Offices of Howard G. Smith to learn about pursuing their claims.

Lead plaintiff motions in the Duolingo, Inc. class action are due to the Court by December 7, 2026. For more information, visit the firm's website, email [email protected], or call (215) 638-4847.

If you purchased Duolingo, Inc. securities during the class period, you may retain counsel of your choice, or you may take no action and remain an absent class member. No class has been certified in the Duolingo, Inc. case so far.

Common questions from Duolingo, Inc. investors

Who is eligible? Investors who acquired Duolingo, Inc. securities from May 2, 2025 through February 26, 2026 and suffered losses may qualify for the class in the Duolingo, Inc. shareholder lawsuit.

What is the deadline? Lead plaintiff motions in the Duolingo, Inc. case are due by December 7, 2026.

Can I recover without being lead plaintiff? Yes, Duolingo, Inc. investors may take no action and remain absent class members.

Does it cost anything? The Law Offices of Howard G. Smith works on contingency, meaning Duolingo, Inc. investors owe no attorneys' fees out of pocket. Any attorneys' fees and litigation expenses are paid solely from a recovery, if achieved, and require court approval.

About The Law Offices of Howard G. Smith

The Law Offices of Howard G. Smith has helped injured investors recover their money for more than 15 years. The firm prosecutes securities fraud, takeover, and derivative litigation against public companies and their officers, directors, and advisors in federal and state courts nationwide, and has helped clients recover hundreds of millions of dollars in losses. Clients speak directly with a lawyer, who will promptly answer any question.

Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

Related links

- Duolingo, Inc. case page, The Law Offices of Howard G. Smith

- Complaint: City of Dearborn Heights Act 345 Police & Fire Retirement System v. Duolingo, Inc. et al., U.S. District Court Western District of Pennsylvania (Pittsburgh)

- Duolingo, Inc. SEC filings index, EDGAR

- The Law Offices of Howard G. Smith

Contact

Howard G. Smith

The Law Offices of Howard G. Smith

3070 Bristol Pike, Suite 112

Bensalem, PA 19020

Email: [email protected]

Telephone: (215) 638-4847

www.howardsmithlaw.com

This press release may be considered Attorney Advertising in some jurisdictions under the applicable law and ethical rules.

SOURCE Law Offices of Howard G. Smith

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The Inner Circle acknowledges Andrea E. Neal as a Pinnacle Professional Member Inner Circle of Excellence

TITUSVILLE, Fla., Nov. 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Andrea E. Neal is acknowledged as a Pinnacle Professional Member Inner Circle of Excellence for her contributions to Reading Education and Literacy Development.

Andrea E. Neal has dedicated her career to helping students overcome reading challenges and achieve academic success through individualized instruction and evidence based literacy interventions. As an intensive reading teacher at Einstein Academy in Cocoa, Florida, she is recognized for her commitment to supporting students with dyslexia, learning disabilities, and other educational needs through targeted reading instruction that builds confidence and long term success.

Since joining Einstein Academy in 2020 and serving as an intensive reading teacher since 2022, Ms. Neal has provided specialized support for students with Individualized Education Programs and 504 plans. Her expertise includes intensive reading instruction, dyslexia support, phonics development, word decoding, and therapeutic literacy interventions designed to meet the unique needs of each student.

Certified in the Lindamood Phoneme Sequencing Program for Reading, Spelling and Speech, Ms. Neal utilizes evidence based strategies and manipulative based activities to strengthen phonemic awareness, decoding skills, and reading comprehension. Through small group instruction, she helps students deepen their understanding of language by exploring idioms, vocabulary, and contextual reading strategies.

Ms. Neal earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Fine and Studio Arts from Linfield University in 2000. She also completed the New World of Work externship program for teachers and paraprofessionals, further enhancing her ability to support student growth and development.

Among her most rewarding accomplishments is helping students achieve significant literacy gains. One notable success involved guiding a ninth grade student from a fourth grade reading level to grade level proficiency while fostering a genuine love of reading. Her dedication has helped countless students overcome barriers and develop the skills necessary for academic achievement.

Beyond the classroom, Ms. Neal remains active in volunteer service through tutoring, soup kitchens, Habitat for Humanity International, and church Bible conferences. She is also honored to have been recognized by Marquis Who's Who Top Educators for her dedication, achievements, and leadership in reading education.

Ms. Neal credits much of her success to the support of her husband, Troy Neal, and the inspiration she draws from her daughter on the autism spectrum. Their experiences have strengthened her commitment to helping students with diverse learning needs reach their full potential.

Looking ahead, she hopes to expand her impact through programs with increased funding and resources that will allow more students to receive the specialized literacy support they need. Guided by a philosophy centered on individualized instruction and student success, Ms. Neal remains dedicated to helping every learner overcome reading obstacles and thrive academically.

Contact: Katherine Green, 516-825-5634, [email protected]

SOURCE The Inner Circle

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Wirtschaftsverband Deutscher Tanzschulunternehmen e.V.

Auszeichnung für die Schlagerkönigin: WDTU ehrt Andrea Berg beim großen Discofox-Marathon

Hamburg (ots)

Am 7. November wird Ausnahmekünstlerin Andrea Berg im Hotel Sonnenhof in ihrer Heimat Kleinaspach für ihre Verdienste um den Discofox und ihr langjähriges Engagement für die Tanzschulbranche ausgezeichnet. Gleichzeitig tanzt ganz Deutschland für den guten Zweck.

Der Wirtschaftsverband deutscher Tanzschulunternehmen (WDTU) verleiht seine renommierte Auszeichnung in diesem Jahr an die Schlagerikone Andrea Berg. Mit der Ehrung würdigt der Verband ihr herausragendes Engagement für die Tanzschulbranche und ihre besonderen Verdienste um den Tanz Discofox. Die feierliche Verleihung findet am Samstag, 7. November, anlässlich des Welttanztages in der legendären Tanzlocation "Hazienda" des Hotel Sonnenhof in Kleinaspach statt.

Seit über drei Jahrzehnten begeistert Andrea Berg mit ihren Hits Millionen Menschen und prägt die Tanzflächen im deutschsprachigen Raum. Mit der Auszeichnung würdigt der WDTU insbesondere ihre außergewöhnliche Bedeutung als Künstlerin mit den meisten selbst verfassten Discofox-Titeln. Kaum jemand hat den Tanzstil so nachhaltig geprägt und über Generationen hinweg in Tanzschulen und Clubs lebendig gehalten wie sie.

"Andrea Berg verbindet mit ihrer Musik Menschen jeden Alters und bringt sie auf die Tanzfläche. Sie hat den Discofox maßgeblich mitgeprägt und leistet damit einen wertvollen Beitrag zur Tanzkultur", so die Begründung der Jury.

Tanzen für den guten Zweck: Deutschland im Discofox-Fieber

Der Tag der Preisverleihung steht ganz im Zeichen der Solidarität. Anlässlich des Welttanztages rufen der WDTU und seine Partner Tanzschulen in ganz Deutschland dazu auf, gemeinsam das Tanzbein zu schwingen und sich für den guten Zweck zu engagieren.

Beim großen bundesweiten Discofox-Marathon wird gleichzeitig in zahlreichen Tanzschulen getanzt. Die Herausforderung: Drei Stunden lang ununterbrochen Discofox tanzen und dabei muss sich jederzeit mindestens ein Tanzpaar auf der Tanzfläche befinden.

Die Erlöse und Spenden des gesamten Aktionstages kommen der NCL-Stiftung zugute. Auch "Andrea Berg hilft e.V." unterstützt mit den Erlösen der Veranstaltung in der "Hazienda" den guten Zweck. Die NCL-Stiftung setzt sich für die Erforschung der seltenen und bislang unheilbaren Kinderdemenz (Neuronale Ceroid-Lipofuszinose) ein.

Awardverleihung an Andrea Berg im Sonnenhof

Am 7. November erwartet der WDTU Andrea Berg persönlich in der "Hazienda" im Hotel Sonnenhof in Kleinaspach. Ebenfalls mit dabei ist NCL-Botschafterin und "Let's Dance"-Star Melissa Ortiz-Gomez.

Während in ganz Deutschland die Tanzschulen für den guten Zweck aktiv sind, wird der Discofox-Marathon auch vor Ort im Sonnenhof gefeiert. Höhepunkt des Tages ist die Awardverleihung an Andrea Berg.

Mit der erfolgreichsten Künstlerin der deutschen Chartgeschichte reiht sich eine weitere herausragende Persönlichkeit in die Riege der bisherigen Preisträger ein. Zu den bereits geehrten Künstlern zählen Herbert Grönemeyer, DJ BoBo und Andrea Kiewel.

Über den WDTU

Der Wirtschaftsverband deutscher Tanzschulunternehmen (WDTU) vertritt die Interessen von Tanzschulinhabern und setzt sich für die Förderung des Gesellschaftstanzes sowie die wirtschaftlichen Belange der Tanzschulbranche ein. Mit vielfältigen Initiativen unterstützt der Verband die Weiterentwicklung der Tanzkultur und stärkt die Bedeutung des Tanzens als verbindendes Element in der Gesellschaft.

Pressekontakt:

Alexander Cristian

Wirtschaftsverband Deutscher Tanzschulunternehmen e.V.

Telefon: (0 40) 50 05 82-0, Mobil: (01 72) 73 600 63, E-Mail: alexander.cristian@tanzen.de

Original-Content von: Wirtschaftsverband Deutscher Tanzschulunternehmen e.V., übermittelt durch news aktuell

Frankfurter Rundschau kommentiert Debatte über "migrantische Milieus"

Frankfurt (ots)

Es ist ebenso erwartbar wie enttäuschend, dass die CDU die vereinzelten Ausschreitungen bei den Gen-Z-Protesten am Wochenende nun für den rassistischen Kulturkampf instrumentalisiert. Doch selbst wer sich - zu Recht - nicht auf eine unsägliche "Stadtbild 2.0"-Debatte einlassen möchte, darf nicht aus den Augen verlieren, was für eine Diskursverschiebung dabei stattfindet. Die Tatsache: Einige Hundert Menschen haben in verschiedenen Städten Scheiben eingeschlagen und einzelne Geschäfte geplündert.

Die Erzählung, die Hessens Innenminister Roman Poseck (CDU) daraus macht: Täter aus einem überwiegend "migrantischen Milieu" seien verantwortlich. Unterstützung bekommt er von Bundesinnenminister Alexander Dobrindt (CSU).

Das "migrantische Milieu"? In einer ernsthaften Debatte könnte man fragen, was damit gemeint sein soll. In einer Stadt wie Frankfurt, in der mehr als die Hälfte aller Bürgerinnen und Bürger einen Migrationshintergrund hat, ist jeder Grundschulpausenhof ein "migrantisches Milieu".

Pressekontakt:

Frankfurter Rundschau

Ressort Politik

Telefon: 069/2199-3989

Original-Content von: Frankfurter Rundschau, übermittelt durch news aktuell

In the news release, New International Art Fair Launches in Tampa Fall 2026, issued 13-Feb-2026 by Art Fair Tampa over PR Newswire, we are advised by the company that a photo has been removed.

New International Art Fair Launches in Tampa Fall 2026

Four-day, indoor fair will feature 300 artists from around the world.

TAMPA, Fla., Feb. 13, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Tampa is set to welcome a significant addition to the global arts calendar this fall with the inaugural Art Fair Tampa, taking place October 15â18, 2026 at the Tampa Convention Center. The four-day celebration of contemporary art, cultural exchange, and immersive creative experiences will feature 300 artists from around the world.

Art Fair Tampa establishes a world-class platform connecting emerging and established artists with collectors, curators, and art enthusiasts from across the globe. The event's expansive indoor format at the Tampa Convention Center provides a climate-controlled environment ideal for viewing and acquiring art, while providing immersive installations and programming designed to enhance the visitor experience.

"We're thrilled to launch Art Fair Tampa in a way that showcases both global talent and the unique creative energy of our region," said Tyler Sirota, the event's lead organizer. "This fair is more than an art festival, it's a cultural experience that connects artists, collectors, and communities from around the world. We anticipate it will become one of the largest indoor art conventions in America."

The Tampa Bay region has cultivated a thriving arts scene recognized by residents and community leaders alike for its economic and cultural contributions.

"Art Fair Tampa reflects Tampa Bay's growing reputation as an artistic hotbed both domestically and internationally," said Santiago C. Corrada, President and CEO of Visit Tampa Bay. "The sheer scope and scale of this inaugural event reinforces our ambitious commitment to the arts while welcoming new audiences, collectors, and creators to experience Tampa Bay's history and culture that has inspired so many."

While Tampa has many international artists that call it home, the fair also provides local artists with a valuable opportunity to benefit from a premier international platform in their own community.

"Tampa has an incredible creative community, and this fair elevates it on the international stage," said Chase Parker, a Tampa-based artist. "For artists who have worked globally, it's exciting to see that level of attention and opportunity arriving here at home."

Art Fair Tampa is scheduled for October 15â18, 2026 at the Tampa Convention Center. For artist applications, exhibitor details, and ticket announcements, visit artfairtampa.com.

About Art Fair Tampa

Art Fair Tampa is an international art fair showcasing contemporary art from established and emerging artists worldwide. Held at the Tampa Convention Center, the fair creates a dynamic platform for cultural exchange, connecting artists, collectors, curators, and art enthusiasts in an immersive four-day experience. Art Fair Tampa celebrates the intersection of global creativity and Tampa Bay's vibrant arts community. For more information, visit artfairtampa.com.

Correction: An earlier version of this release contained a photo of the Tampa Convention Center.

SOURCE Art Fair Tampa

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Akash Announces Migration to Solana to Power the Next Generation of AI Infrastructure

The migration brings Akash's established distributed compute marketplace to Solana, marking a significant step in the network's evolution as demand for AI compute power continues to grow.

SAN FRANCISCO, Nov. 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Akash, the open compute platform built for the AI and inference era, confirmed its move to Solana, bringing its decentralized compute ecosystem to one of the industry's leading blockchain networks following approval from its community. Over the next 24 months, Akash will migrate its underlying blockchain infrastructure to bring the compute layer that will power the next generation of AI to the Solana ecosystem.

Marking a new chapter in Akash's growth, the migration will expand access to its decentralized compute infrastructure and allow Akash to integrate existing tools and capabilities from Solana's rich ecosystem powering internet capital markets, payments, AI agents, and crypto applications . Akash Marketplace, a compute marketplace that aggregates distributed compute supply via a globally accessible marketplace, AkashML, its high-performance AI inference platform, and Akash Homenode, allowing users to contribute compute power to Akash Network, will be available natively on Solana.

The migration follows an extensive review that identified Solana as the best fit for Akash's future growth, citing its low transaction costs, established DePIN ecosystem, liquidity and access to a large onchain user base. The decision was formally ratified by the Akash community through governance proposal Governance Proposal 346, which passed with 97% of token holders voting in favor.

Greg Osuri, founder of Akash, said, "AI compute is becoming an increasingly critical resource as demand for inference continues to grow. From the beginning, Akash has been driven by the belief that compute power should be accessible to everyone. Choosing Solana marks an important milestone in that mission and our broader vision of making compute a liquid resource. Its infrastructure, liquidity, and thriving developer ecosystem give us the foundation to scale our marketplace, reach new audiences, and build entirely new markets around compute. We are incredibly proud of what our community has built and excited to make Solana our home as we build the next generation of AI infrastructure together."

Solana is home to more than 50 million active users backed by a thriving developer community. The migration will bring together two ecosystems committed to making decentralised infrastructure more accessible, giving Akash a strong foundation to continue expanding its global compute network.

Rishin Sharma, Head of AI Growth, Solana Foundation, said, "Akash has been at the forefront of making computing power more accessible, and we're thrilled to welcome them to the Solana ecosystem. We share their belief that the future of AI infrastructure should be open, accessible and built to serve developers and businesses of all sizes. As demand for AI compute continues to grow, Akash's vision for a decentralised, globally accessible compute marketplace is more relevant than ever. We're excited to support the team as they make Solana their new home and work towards building a more open and accessible future for AI."

The Akash and Solana teams have already begun collaborating on the transition, with technical planning and coordination underway. Existing AKT holders will be able to migrate their tokens to SPL AKT on a 1:1 basis through a dedicated portal. Updates on the migration, including key milestones and guidance for the Akash community, will be available at https://akash.network/.

Greg Osuri is available for interview on request

About Akash:

Built by Overclock Labs, Akash is an open compute platform powering the AI and inference era. Through its global marketplace of independent compute providers, Akash delivers affordable, on-demand computing power to developers and enterprises, from general-purpose workloads to high-performance AI inference. By unlocking underutilised compute capacity worldwide, Akash offers a scalable alternative to traditional cloud infrastructure, without long-term contracts or vendor lock-in.

SOURCE Akash

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