ASPIRE 2026 Brings Practical AI and Cybersecurity Strategies to New York's Small-Business Leaders

Free October 21 conference will help SMB executives use technology to grow revenue, improve productivity, control costs and reduce cyber risk.

HOBOKEN, N.J., Oct. 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Small and midsize businesses are under pressure to adopt AI, strengthen cybersecurity and improve performance, often at the same time. eMazzanti Technologies today announced ASPIRE 2026, a one-day conference designed to replace technology hype with practical ideas business leaders can put to work.

The conference takes place October 21 from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM Eastern Time at the Microsoft Conference Center in New York City. More than 200 small and midsize business leaders are expected to attend 24 expert-led sessions across four concurrent tracks. Attendees can build their own agenda around four priorities: growing revenue, improving productivity, reducing expenses and strengthening cybersecurity.

"Small-business leaders do not need another day of vague predictions," said Carl Mazzanti, Co-Founder and President of eMazzanti Technologies. "They need clear answers to costly questions: Where can AI create value now? Which technology investments actually improve performance? How can teams become more productive without creating more risk? And how can businesses stay ahead of attackers who never stop? ASPIRE 2026 is built to turn those questions into action."

Keynote Focus: How AI Is Changing Cybersecurity

Featured keynote speaker Scott Beale, CEO of ISC2, will present "How AI Is Transforming Cybersecurity." Beale brings more than 25 years of workforce-development experience, including service as Associate Director of the U.S. Peace Corps, where he led 2,500 staff across 64 countries. His keynote will explore emerging threats and how organizations can prepare for an increasingly complex cybersecurity landscape.

Four Tracks Built Around Business Results

- Drive Revenue: AI integration, customer success and growth strategies that turn technology into business momentum.

- Increase Productivity: Workflow automation, cloud migration and operational strategies that remove bottlenecks and give teams time back.

- Reduce Expenses: Smarter decisions about cloud, communications, AI and technology investments that protect margins.

- Enhance Cybersecurity: Practical guidance on ransomware prevention, data protection, disaster recovery and AI-powered threats.

The agenda includes a live opening keynote, expert sessions, a networking lunch and panel discussion, a closing panel and an evening networking reception. Speakers include leaders and specialists from ISC2, Microsoft, WatchGuard Technologies, eMazzanti Technologies, the Hudson County Chamber of Commerce, i3 International, FC Motown and other organizations working across technology, security and business performance.

"The market is not going to slow down so businesses can catch up," Mazzanti added. "ASPIRE gives leaders a chance to step out of reaction mode, compare ideas with peers and leave with a sharper plan for Monday morning."

Complimentary Admission for SMB Leaders

General admission is complimentary for approved small and midsize business executives and technology leaders. Registration includes full-day access, all 24 sessions, the keynote, closing panel and conference materials. Seating is limited.

Learn more and register: eMazzanti ASPIRE 2026

About eMazzanti Technologies

eMazzanti Technologies helps organizations improve security, productivity and business performance through cloud and mobile solutions, multi-site technology implementations, outsourced network management, 24x7 support, digital marketing services, and cybersecurity assessments and protection services.

The company has appeared on the Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing privately held companies eleven times. It has also been recognized by Microsoft as a four-time Partner of the Year and by WatchGuard as a five-time Partner of the Year. NJBIZ has recognized the firm as Small Business of the Year and as a leading New Jersey Digital Innovator.

SOURCE eMazzanti Technologies

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DENSO Manufacturing Athens Tennessee Marks Months of Solar Energy Generation

Collaboration with Solarity helps power operations, advance DENSO sustainability goals

ATHENS, Tenn., Oct. 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- DENSO, a leading mobility supplier, is today announcing the establishment and months of successful operation of a new solar energy facility at DENSO Manufacturing Athens Tennessee, Inc. (DMAT).

The project is made possible through close collaboration with renewable energy company Solarity, with support from clean energy project platform GridMarket, the Athens Utilities Board and Tennessee Valley Authority.

Launched in May, the 18.8-acre facility located on the north side of DENSO's property has already been producing renewable energy for DMAT operations and contributing to DENSO's broader sustainability goals. The activity expands DENSO's alternative energy portfolio and adds to the various approaches it takes to accelerate onsite green energy deployments, including a mix of independent and collaborative projects.

"At DMAT, we're always looking for ways to strengthen our operations while being responsible environmental stewards in the Athens community," said Mark Moses, president of DMAT. "This project demonstrates how manufacturing and sustainability can work hand in hand. We're proud to generate renewable energy onsite and are grateful to all our partners for helping bring this project to life."

The facility features more than 10,000 solar modules and operates at a nameplate capacity of 5.25 megawatt alternating current (MWac), making it one of DENSO's largest onsite renewable energy installations in North America. The system is expected to generate enough renewable electricity each year to offset nearly 14% of DMAT's annual power consumption.

"We're proud to strengthen our long-term partnerships with DENSO by delivering tailored, high-impact energy solutions for global manufacturers," said Yael Avner, CEO at Solarity. "This project highlights our ability to align technical and financial innovation at scale."

Through August, the facility has generated more than 3,200 MWh of electricity, enough to power approximately 300 average U.S. households for a year, and offset an estimated 1,125 metric tons of carbon emissions.

"Projects like this are an important part of DENSO's approach to sustainability across North America," said Jon Ruge, Vice President, North America Safety, Health and Environment at DENSO. "The results at DMAT show how renewable energy investments can support our environmental goals as we develop leading products and help build a more sustainable future for our company and our communities."

The Athens project is one of several green energy initiatives supporting DENSO's sustainability efforts in North America. These include the successful 2025 launch of a solar facility at DENSO Manufacturing Tennessee, Inc., located in Maryville, not far from Athens. Through renewable energy partnerships and other clean energy investments, DENSO continues to expand the use of renewable electricity and reduce emissions across its operations.

These investments support DENSO's Green great cause – the company's goal to be carbon neutral through its products, processes and facilities by 2035. It also complements DENSO's Peace of Mind great cause – efforts to build safer, more seamless mobility to achieve zero traffic fatalities and a worry-free society. Both help the company pursue its mission of contributing to a better world.

About DENSO

Globally headquartered in Kariya, Japan, DENSO is a 7,540.0 billion yen (US$47.2 billion) leading mobility supplier that develops advanced technology and components for nearly every vehicle make and model on the road today. With manufacturing at its core, DENSO invests in around 170 facilities worldwide to provide opportunities for rewarding careers and to produce cutting-edge electrification, powertrain, thermal and mobility electronics products, among others, that change how the world moves. In developing such solutions, the company's 155,000 global employees are paving the way to a mobility future that improves lives, eliminates traffic accidents, and preserves the environment. DENSO spent around 9.2 percent of its global consolidated sales on research and development in the fiscal year ending March 31, 2026. For more information about DENSO's operations worldwide, visit https://www.denso.com/global.

In North America, DENSO is headquartered in Southfield, Michigan, and employs 23,000+ team members across more than 40 sites in the U.S, Canada and Mexico. In the fiscal year ending March 31, 2026, DENSO in North America generated $12.7 billion in consolidated sales. To learn more about DENSO operations in the region, please visit https://www.denso.com/us-ca/en/.

About Solarity

Solarity is a Houston, Texas-based solar energy developer and EPC contractor serving commercial, industrial and institutional customers across the United States. The company develops, engineers, builds and owns behind-the-meter solar projects, delivering long-term power purchase agreements that support customers' energy and sustainability goals. For more information, visit www.SolarityUSA.com.

SOURCE DENSO

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Mountain Province Diamonds Inc. Announces Comprehensive Restructuring Agreement to Strengthen its Financial Position

TORONTO, Oct. 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Mountain Province Diamonds Inc. ("Mountain Province" or the "Company") announces today that it has entered into a consensual restructuring implementation agreement (the "Restructuring Agreement") with De Beers Canada Inc. ("De Beers"), Dunebridge Worldwide Ltd. ("Dunebridge"), the lender under the Company's junior and bridge credit facilities, and the beneficial holders (the "Noteholders") of the Company's senior secured lien notes due December 2027 (the "Notes"). The agreement provides for De Beers to assume full ownership of the Gahcho Kué diamond mine in the Northwest Territories (the "GK Mine") releases the Mountain Province entities from associated obligations and liabilities and preserves rights that allow the Company to regain an ownership interest in the GK Mine in the future.

In accordance with the Restructuring Agreement, the parties have agreed that De Beers will obtain the 49% participating interest of 2435386 Ontario Inc. ("JVCo"), a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company, in the GK Mine (the "MPV Participating Interest") in satisfaction of the remaining reclamation payments and all other debts owing to De Beers under the amended and restated joint venture agreement dated March 18, 2025 (the "JVA") and the payment and security agreement dated February 24, 2025 (as amended) (the "Payment and Security Agreement"), each as between the Company, JVCo and De Beers, (the "Transaction"). The remaining reclamation payments represent the Company's share of the decommissioning, reclamation and environmental clean-up costs at the GK Mine (the "Decommissioning Costs").

Jonathan Comerford, President and CEO of Mountain Province, commented: "This agreement follows an extensive review of the alternatives available to the Company against the backdrop of a material decline in diamond prices over the past year, driven in the main by tariff-related uncertainty and the conflict in the Middle East. It provides the most credible path to protect stakeholder value in the current circumstances. It removes all liabilities, provides greater certainty for the employees and communities connected to Gahcho Kué, and preserves rights that allow Mountain Province to participate again in the mine's future. The Noteholders and Dunebridge have also agreed to provide the Company with a six-month period during which interest and capital repayments and the exercise of specified rights will be suspended, giving the Company time to restructure its balance sheet and pursue new funding. If diamond market conditions continue to improve, that funding could support the future exercise of the Company's rights in relation to Gahcho Kué and the continued development of the Kennady diamonds assets."

Under the terms of the Restructuring Agreement, upon completion of the Transaction, among other things: (i) De Beers will be the sole owner of the GK Mine holding 100% of the participating interest in the GK Mine; (ii) the Company and its subsidiaries will be unconditionally and irrevocably released, waived and forever discharged from the remainder of any outstanding indebtedness owing to De Beers under the JVA, the Payment and Security Agreement, the credit support agreements between De Beers and JVCo (the "CSRs"), the security documents, any guarantee or any other obligation contingent on or related to, or otherwise arising in connection with the joint venture with De Beers, together with all accrued and unpaid interest thereon (the "Specified Debt"); and (iii) each of the JVA, the Payment and Security Agreement, the related security documents, certain acknowledgments as between De Beers and the Company's other secured creditors and the CSRs will be terminated and of no further force and effect (the "Terminated Agreements").

Right of First Refusal/Offer and Option on the GK Mine

The Restructuring Agreement provides JVCo with a right of first offer and right of first refusal ("ROFO/ROFR") to acquire the GK Mine and/or the mineral rights of the GK Mine in the event that De Beers elects to sell all or substantially all of the GK Mine or mineral rights following completion of the Transaction.

The Restructuring Agreement also provides JVCo with an option (the "Option") to purchase the MPV Participating Interest (the "Option Interest") then held by De Beers at any time prior to December 31, 2029, for a price equivalent to the share of Decommissioning Costs attributable to the MPV Participating Interest.

About Mountain Province Diamonds Inc.

Mountain Province controls more than 96,000 hectares of highly prospective mineral claims and leases surrounding the GK Mine located in Canada's Northwest Territories that include an indicated mineral resource for the Kelvin kimberlite and inferred mineral resources for the Faraday kimberlites.

For further information on Mountain Province Diamonds and to receive news releases by email, visit the Company's website at www.mountainprovince.com.

Caution Regarding Forward Looking Information

This news release contains certain "forward-looking statements" and "forward-looking information" under applicable Canadian and United States securities laws concerning the business, operations and financial performance and condition of Mountain Province Forward-looking statements and forward-looking information include, but are not limited to: statements regarding the Transaction and its expected timing and effects; the release and discharge of MPD and its subsidiaries from the Specified Debt and the termination of the Terminated Agreements; De Beers' assumption of liability for the Decommissioning Costs attributable to the MPV Participating Interest; the Company's continued control of the mineral claims and leases surrounding the GK Mine; and the ROFO/ROFR and Option and the terms thereof.

Except for statements of historical fact relating to Mountain Province, certain information contained herein constitutes forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are frequently characterized by words such as "anticipates," "may," "can," "plans," "believes," "estimates," "expects," "projects," "targets," "intends," "likely," "will," "should," "to be", "potential" and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions "may", "should" or "will" occur. Forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management at the date the statements are made and are based on a number of assumptions and subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Many of these assumptions are based on factors and events that are not within the control of Mountain Province and there is no assurance they will prove to be correct.

Factors that could cause actual results to vary materially from results anticipated by such forward-looking statements include: the negotiating stances taken by the parties; the possibility of valid objections to the Transaction; risks related to the timing and completion of the Transaction; fluctuating commodity prices and currency exchange rates; the risks and uncertainties inherent in the mining industry; and other factors that may affect the Company's ability to exercise the ROFO/ROFR or the Option.

Risk factors with respect to the Company's business are discussed in greater detail in Mountain Province's Annual Information Form and in the most recent MD&A filed on SEDAR+, which also provide additional general assumptions in connection with these statements. Mountain Province cautions that the foregoing list of important factors is not exhaustive. Investors and others who base themselves on forward-looking statements should carefully consider the above factors as well as the uncertainties they represent and the risk they entail. Mountain Province believes that the expectations reflected in those forward-looking statements are reasonable, but no assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct and such forward-looking statements included in this news release should not be unduly relied upon. These statements speak only as of the date of this news release.

Although Mountain Province has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause actions, events or results not to be anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Mountain Province undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements if circumstances or management's estimates or opinions should change except as required by applicable securities laws. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The forward-looking information contained in this news release is expressly qualified by this cautionary statement.

SOURCE Mountain Province Diamonds Inc.

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Five M&A affiliations and one traditional affiliation underscore demand for Steward's flexible partnership model

STAMFORD, Conn., Oct. 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Steward Partners, a full-service, employee-owned, independent financial services firm, announces the addition of six advisor teams representing more than $2.2 billion in combined client assets during the third quarter of 2026.

Five of the six teams joined Steward through the firm's M&A channel, while one affiliated through Steward's traditional model, highlighting the range of paths available to established advisory businesses seeking greater scale, infrastructure, ownership and long-term optionality.

The teams joining Steward during the quarter include American Financial Advisors, led by Mike Stark in Georgia with approximately $1 billion in client assets; O'Neill Wealth Management in New Jersey with approximately $426 million; Sapphire Blue Advisors in Michigan with approximately $305 million; KM Private Wealth, led by Kyle Martin in Alabama with approximately $194 million; Axiom Capital Wealth Management, led by Bob Phinney in Massachusetts with approximately $191 million; and Integrity Financial Services, led by Jeff Seitz in Washington with approximately $116 million.

"This quarter reflects what we're seeing across the marketplace. Successful advisors and founders want more options, not fewer," said Scott Danner, Chief Growth Officer at Steward Partners. "They want the ability to keep growing, create liquidity, plan for succession and gain greater infrastructure without losing what made their business successful in the first place. Five of these six teams joined through M&A, but the larger story is choice. Different businesses need different paths, and our job is to meet them where they are and build the right partnership for what comes next."

The quarter reflects the continued expansion of Steward's Strategic Growth platform, which serves advisory businesses across multiple stages of their evolution. Teams can affiliate while maintaining independence and ownership of their practices, pursue strategic liquidity while continuing to lead and grow their businesses, or develop longer-term succession and continuity plans.

"Five M&A affiliations in a single quarter is a reflection of the rigor we've built into that process, not just demand for it," said Valerie Rivera, Chief Operating Officer, Strategic Growth at Steward Partners. "Scott and I work closely with these teams from the earliest conversations through close, and the businesses we're seeing want more than a deal — they want a partner who can integrate their operations, their people and their clients without disruption. That's the piece that determines whether an M&A affiliation actually works long-term, and it's where we spend the majority of our time."

Across those paths, Steward combines advisor ownership with institutional infrastructure, operational support, technology, investment capabilities and M&A resources through its OneSteward model.

"Advisory businesses do not all arrive at the same decision for the same reason, and they should not be forced into the same model," said Jeff Gonyo, Head of Wealth Management at Steward Partners. "What they consistently want is a partner that respects what they have already built while giving them greater resources to support where they want to go next. Whether that means remaining highly independent, accelerating growth, creating liquidity or planning for the next generation, our role is to provide the infrastructure and flexibility that allows them to move forward without giving up the identity and client relationships that made them successful."

The third-quarter additions follow a strong first half of 2026, during which Steward Partners added more than $6 billion in client assets across eleven advisor teams.

Together, the results reflect continued momentum across both Steward's M&A and traditional affiliation channels and growing demand among established advisory businesses for models that combine independence with greater scale and partnership.

Looking ahead, Steward Partners continues to expand in both existing and emerging markets, supported by a pipeline of advisor teams and M&A opportunities in development. The firm remains focused on providing advisors with multiple ways to build enterprise value, strengthen their businesses and create greater choice around what comes next.

Since its launch in 2013, Steward Partners has solidified its place as one of the industry's fastest-growing and most influential RIA firms. The firm was recently recognized with a #10 ranking on the 2026 Barron's Top 100 RIA Firms list and was named a 2025 Thrivent Employer of Choice by InvestmentNews, reflecting the firm's commitment to fostering a collaborative, partner-driven culture. Several Steward Partners advisors and teams were also honored on Forbes | SHOOK's 2026 Best-In-State Wealth Advisors and 2026 Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams lists, underscoring the quality of client service delivered across the platform.

About Steward Partners

Representing some of the U.S.'s top advisors, Steward Partners is a full-service, employee-owned, independent financial services firm that offers wealth management solutions for families, businesses, and multigenerational investors. Established in 2013, the firm fosters a positive, transparent culture of camaraderie and excellence that has fueled its substantial growth in a highly competitive industry. Offering services such as comprehensive wealth planning, private banking, institutional consulting, and business solutions, the firm was responsible for over $57 billion in client assets as of September 2026.

To learn more about Steward Partners, visit www.stewardpartners.com.

About Barron's Top 100 RIA Firms

2026 - Source: Barrons.com. Barron's is a registered trademark of Dow Jones & Company, L.P. All rights reserved. The Barron's 2026 Top 100 RIA Firms ranking was published in September 2026 and was based on information for the 12-month period ending June 30, 2026. Eligible firms completed a survey containing more than 100 questions about their practices, and Barron's verified submitted information using regulatory databases. Barron's applied a ranking formula consisting of three primary categories: assets, revenue, and quality of practice. The formula includes multiple quantitative and qualitative factors, such as asset type, growth, client retention, technology spending, succession planning, team diversity, charitable and philanthropic activities, and compliance records. Steward Partners was ranked among the non-Mega RIA firms. The ranking may not be representative of any individual client's experience, does not constitute an endorsement of Steward Partners or its Financial Advisors, and is not indicative of future performance. No fee was paid for participation, consideration, or inclusion in the ranking. Steward Partners may pay licensing, advertising, publication, reprint, or promotional fees associated with publicizing the ranking. Barron's is not affiliated with Steward Partners.

About InvestmentNews: Thrivent Employer of Choice

2025 – The Thrivent Employer of Choice award recognizes a multi-office advisor network, brokerage, or fund provider's commitment to building a workplace that recognizes excellence and supports career growth for all. This award recognizes the company that has earned the reputation of being called an employer of choice within the wealth management and financial planning industry. Nominations by employees, partners, peers, and clients are welcome. Employers are selected based on objective criteria including: must have more than 50 employees within the U.S. and be in the wealth management industry, demonstrates unique employee value proposition (e.g. business development support, marketing support, education, training, philanthropy), defined workplace brand and culture to foster growth for employees, innovative approach to employee recruitment, retention, talent management, learning & development, mitigating employer-related risks, managing changes within the business (i.e. digitalization, customer expectations, compliance), and exemplary reputation within the industry. Data was compiled from 2024. Award Finalists announced June 24, 2025. Steward Partners nor its affiliates paid a fee to InvestmentNews in exchange for the ranking.

About Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Advisors

2026 – Source: Forbes.com - The ranking was developed by SHOOK Research and is based on in-person, virtual and telephone due diligence meetings to evaluate each advisor qualitatively, a major component of a ranking algorithm that includes: in-person, virtual and telephone due diligence meetings, client impact, industry experience, client retention, review of best practices, credentials, compliance records and firm nominations, as well as quantitative factors including assets under management and revenue generated for their firms. Investment performance is not a criterion, as client objectives and risk tolerances vary and advisors rarely have audited performance reports. Rankings are based on the opinions of SHOOK Research, LLC and are not indicative of future performance or representative of any one client's experience. Neither Steward Partners nor its Wealth Managers pay a fee to Forbes or SHOOK Research in exchange for the ranking. This ranking is based upon the period from 6/30/2024 to 6/30/2025 and published by Forbes (April 7, 2026). For more information, see www.SHOOKresearch.com. 

About Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams

2026 - Source: Forbes.

OnPing Plunger™, powered by Pak AI, scales expert-level optimization across an entire field, without adding headcount

FRISCO, Texas, Oct. 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- PakEnergy today announced OnPing Plunger, powered by Pak AI, an optimization system that increases revenue and reduces lifting costs on plunger lift wells. Operators running already well-optimized wells have seen revenue improvements of 3.5–7%. On wells set conservatively and left alone, improvements have reached 30%.

Plunger lift is one of the cheapest ways to keep aging gas wells producing, but the returns depend on expertise no operator can spread across every well. Wells get set once and left alone, giving up production month after month while nobody sees it happen.

OnPing Plunger closes that gap. Pak AI learns each well's best historical runs, continuously compares actual performance against expected, and tunes setpoints inside the operator's existing automation and safety limits or flags the well for a human to review.

"Every operator we talk to has more wells than well experts to watch them," said Ryan Lailey, Chief Product Officer at PakEnergy. "The wells that need attention most are the ones nobody has looked at in a year. OnPing Plunger finds them, fixes them, and keeps them tuned within the limits you already set."

How it works

- Pak AI setpoint optimization across tubing differential, afterflow timing, and pressure thresholds

- Pak AI drift detection that flags wells deviating from normal operating patterns

- Three operating modes: Off surfaces opportunities and changes nothing, Manual recommends changes for approval, Auto applies governed adjustments within established safety limits

OnPing Plunger is SCADA-agnostic for systems meeting polling and real-time access requirements. For wells on legacy non-digital controllers, PakEnergy's Lumberjack digital controller brings them into scope.

See it live

PakEnergy will demonstrate OnPing Plunger in a live webinar on October 29 including field results and a walkthrough of how wells are qualified and brought online. Register at https://pakenergy.com/every-well-every-cycle. OnPing Plunger is available beginning October 1, 2026, as an add-on for qualified wells.

About PakEnergy

PakEnergy, LLC (A Delaware LLC) provides software for upstream and midstream oil and gas organizations, connecting the field, the back office, and the executive team on one platform. The portfolio spans accounting, land, production, wellsite operations, transportation, document workflows, analytics, and SCADA and IIoT through OnPing. PakEnergy AI (Pak AI) brings machine learning and agent-based automation to the portfolio. Built by energy people for energy people. Learn more at www.pakenergy.com.

SOURCE PakEnergy, LLC

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Snuggle® Brand and Peanuts® Highlight Linus and his Iconic Blue Blanket Through the Power of a Comforting Scent

STAMFORD, Conn., Oct. 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Snuggle® brand, the trusted fabric care brand known for bringing long-lasting freshness, irresistible softness, and the comfort of home to families for more than 40 years, is partnering with Peanuts® to celebrate one of pop culture's most enduring symbols of comfort by highlighting two beloved icons who share a love for their signature blue blankets: Linus and the Snuggle Bear. Inspired by the comfort Linus gets from his beloved blue blanket, the 'Must be the scent of Snuggle®' campaign taps into a universal truth: the things we love most have a way of making us feel instantly comforted. Rooted in warmth, familiarity, and nostalgia, the collaboration brings together two multi-generational brands that have long been synonymous with comfort and the simple moments that create a feeling of home, wherever you are.

For generations, Linus' blanket has been a symbol of comfort, familiarity and nostalgia, while Snuggle® brand has become known for providing the fresh laundry scent that instantly reminds us of home and brings us back to the simple comforts of childhood. Together, Snuggle® and Peanuts® celebrate the emotional power of scent through storytelling, bringing this shared feeling of comfort to life through an immersive pop-up experience, digital content, and retail activations. Consumers are invited to connect with the story for themselves and discover how familiar scents can turn everyday moments into lasting feelings of comfort.

"Together, we're celebrating two beloved icons connected by the universal feeling of comfort: Linus and the Snuggle® Bear, each with their signature blue blanket. It's a playful collaboration inspired by the cozy, comforting feeling of a favorite blanket and the fresh scent that helps make home feel like home. If you know Linus, you know he never goes anywhere without the comfort of his blue blanket, making this partnership with Peanuts® a natural fit for Snuggle®, a brand synonymous with that same comforting feeling." said Allison Feldman, VP Marketing - Fabric Softener & Personal Care Brands at Henkel.

"For more than 70 years, Linus has been instantly recognizable by the beloved blue 'security blanket' clutched to his cheek. Now, we are delighted to collaborate with Snuggle® to celebrate Linus, who represents some of the most important aspects of childhood—and adulthood: reassurance and contentment." said Scott Shillet, VP Global Licensing, Hardlines at Peanuts

To bring the collaboration to life, the Snuggle® brand will debut an immersive pop-up experience in New York City on October 17th and 18th, celebrating the tremendous love Linus and the Snuggle® bear have for their signature blue blankets. Guests will have the opportunity to experience a space inspired by the Peanuts world and cuddle their very own signature blue blanket, freshly washed with Snuggle so they can see for themselves how the familiar scent of Snuggle Blue Sparkle® evokes feelings of comfort, warmth & home. Visitors may even receive another special Snuggle icon to keep close and bring them comfort.

Throughout the fall season, the collaboration will come to life across Snuggle® brand's social channels through nostalgic storytelling inspired by classic Peanuts animation, engaging digital content, and retail activations celebrating the comfort of Linus' beloved blanket and Snuggle® brand's signature scent.

At the heart of the campaign is Snuggle® brand's iconic Blue Sparkle® collection, including Blue Sparkle® Liquid Fabric Softener, Blue Sparkle® Dryer Sheets, and Blue Sparkle® In-Wash Scent Booster Crystals. Beloved for its signature fresh scent featuring notes of bright green citrus, white florals and soft musk, the collection inspires the campaign's playful spirit.

For more information and brand updates, follow @snuggle_bear on social media.

About Snuggle®

Snuggle® fabric softener has been making the world a softer place for over 40 years, providing the ultimate in Cuddly Softness® and long-lasting freshness to loads of laundry. The Snuggle® line offers a variety of high-quality fabric conditioning products, including liquid softeners, dryer sheets, and in-wash scent boosters at an accessible price point that make clothes cuddly soft while providing long-lasting freshness. See www.Snuggle.com for full details.

About Henkel in North America

Henkel's portfolio of well-known brands in North America includes all®, Purex® and Persil® laundry detergents, Snuggle® fabric softeners, Dial® soaps, Schwarzkopf® hair care, as well as Loctite®, Technomelt® and Bonderite® adhesives. With sales of about 6.1 billion US dollars (5.4 billion euros) in 2025, North America accounts for 26 percent of the company's global sales. Henkel employs more than 7,000 people across the U.S. and Canada. For more information, please visit www.henkel-northamerica.com and on X @Henkel_NA.

About Peanuts

The characters of Peanuts and related intellectual property are owned by Peanuts Worldwide, which is 80% owned by the Sony Group, and 20% owned by the family of Charles M. Schulz. First introduced to the world in 1950 in the Peanuts comic strip, Charlie Brown, Snoopy and the rest of the gang have made an indelible mark on popular culture. In addition to enjoying beloved Peanuts shows and specials on Apple TV, fans of all ages celebrate the brand around the world through thousands of consumer products, as well as amusement park attractions, cultural events, social media, and comic strips available in all formats, from traditional to digital. Peanuts recently celebrated its 75th Anniversary with unprecedented worldwide exhibitions and activities, collaborations, digital marketing campaigns, and more.

SOURCE Snuggle

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SOUTHLAKE, Texas, Oct. 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Sabre Corporation (NASDAQ: SABR), a leading global travel technology company, today announced that Rochelle Boas has been elected Executive Vice President – Chief Legal and Administrative Officer, effective immediately.

In her expanded role, Boas will continue to lead Sabre's Legal organization and will assume responsibility for overseeing the company's People Team. Chief People Officer Dave Medrano will report to Boas.

"Rochelle is a trusted leader whose judgment and strategic perspective have made a meaningful impact across Sabre," said Kurt Ekert, president and CEO of Sabre. "Bringing our Legal and People functions together under her leadership will strengthen alignment across the organization and help us move with greater speed and focus."

Boas joined Sabre as Executive Vice President – Chief Legal Officer in 2024 and serves on the company's executive leadership team.

About Sabre

Powering the agentic revolution in travel. Sabre is an AI-native technology leader, backed by one of the world's largest travel data clouds. With AI at its core and operating at unparalleled scale, Sabre transforms insights into innovation, empowering airlines, hoteliers, agencies and other partners to retail, distribute and fulfill travel worldwide. Sabre is built on an open, modular, cloud-native architecture and serves as the backbone for both established leaders and bold, new disruptors, guiding them to the next age of travel retailing through intelligent, connected, and personalized experiences. For more information, visit www.sabre.com.

SABR-F

SOURCE Sabre Corporation

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Company puts its full weight behind Revitalign®, the orthotic footwear brand many podiatrists recommend and consumers have chosen more than 3 million times

WACO, Texas, Oct. 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Waco Shoe Company today announced that Revitalign® is now the company's flagship brand, marking a new chapter as the business celebrates its 10th anniversary. Established in September 2016 to develop and produce comfort footwear built on proprietary orthotic technology, the company now places its full support behind Revitalign®, the brand that has grown into its strongest performer with more than 3 million pairs sold.

"A decade ago, we set out to design supportive, on-trend and stylish footwear on orthotic technology we could stand behind, and the market has responded," said Jeff Antonioli, co-owner of Waco Shoe Company. "Over 3 million pairs later, Revitalign® has earned its place as our flagship brand. We own this technology, we've refined it, and we've built a line that delivers real support in the trend-forward styles people want to wear every day."

Revitalign® is built on Full Contact Comfort® proprietary orthotic footbed technology that Waco Shoe Company owns and has refined over the past decade. That technology anchors every pair, delivering the support and alignment that podiatrists recommend and consumers rely on for supportive footwear. Well-recognized within the podiatric community, the brand's Yumi™ and Kholo™ product lines remain unique to Revitalign®.

The company's continued dedication reflects a clear strategic expansion. Where Revitalign® once centered on recovery-focused footwear, the brand now extends into full lifestyle footwear, offering a broader range of colors and styles engineered for daily use. Throughout that expansion, the orthotic support at the core of every product remains unchanged.

"With proven demand, proprietary technology, and exclusive product ownership, Revitalign® enters its next chapter from a position of strength," Antonioli adds. "We are ready to reach a wider audience of podiatrists, retailers and everyday consumers who value support without sacrificing style."

To learn more about Revitalign® and its portfolio of footwear, visit Revitalign.com.

About Revitalign®: Revitalign® by Waco Shoe Company, a trusted leader in orthotic footwear and footcare, creates quality sandals, shoes, slippers and boots that feel great all day. The Waco, Texas-based company offers a variety of men's and women's footwear designed with innovative, comfortable and orthotic-driven footbeds with Full Contact Comfort®. Revitalign® is available online at Revitalign, Nordstrom, QVC, Amazon and at select local specialty shoe retailers. Learn more at Revitalign.com.

SOURCE Revitalign®

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TORONTO, Oct. 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- MP Materials Founder, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer James Litinsky topped Bedford Group/TRANSEARCH's 2026 mining compensation rankings with a reported fiscal 2025 total compensation of US$28.0 million (C$39.2 million).

Litinsky's compensation was overwhelmingly weighted toward long-term equity, including US$24.8 million (C$34.6 million) in stock awards, together with US$2.2 million (C$3.1 million) in annual non-equity incentive compensation. His base salary was US$1.0 million (C$1.4 million).

The result comes during a transformational period for MP Materials, which operates the Mountain Pass rare-earth mine and processing facility in California and has expanded into U.S. magnet manufacturing. In July 2025, the company entered into a major public-private partnership with the U.S. Department of Defense to accelerate development of a domestic rare-earth magnet supply chain.

Litinsky has led MP Materials since its inception in 2017, making the compensation outcome one associated with a long-serving founder and CEO rather than a new-hire package. Later in 2025, the company granted him a one-time US$15 million (C$21.0 million) performance-based equity award tied in part to milestones under its U.S. government agreements and other long-term operating objectives.

"MP Materials is operating at the centre of one of the most strategically important areas of the U.S. critical-minerals market, and Litinsky's compensation reflects the scale of that mandate," said Frank Galati, Managing Partner and Executive Compensation Practice Leader at Bedford Group/TRANSEARCH. "What stands out is that the vast majority of his reported compensation was delivered through long-term equity rather than fixed salary, with a significant portion tied to future performance and strategic milestones."

Bedford's 2026 Report on Board and Executive Compensation in the Mining Industry analyzes compensation practices at 346 publicly traded companies, covering more than 1,300 Named Executive Officers (NEOs) and 1,900 directors. The report serves two distinct functions: benchmarking current-market compensation according to company asset value and assessing year-over-year changes using the same companies from one year to the next.

The analysis found that median base salary increased 4% from fiscal 2024 across CEOs, CFOs and the remaining NEOs. Median total compensation increased 14% for CEOs and CFOs and 8% for remaining NEOs, demonstrating that changes in incentive compensation continued to have a greater impact on total pay than changes in fixed salary.

Other findings from Bedford's 2026 report include:

- 79% of executives received equity compensation during fiscal 2025.

- Stock options were concentrated among smaller companies: of those granting equity compensation, 94% of companies with less than $100 million in assets used options, compared with 19% of companies with more than $20 billion in assets.

- Performance Share Unit (PSU) prevalence moved in the opposite direction, increasing from 26% in the Under $100 million tier to 88% in the $20 billion-plus tier.

- CFO turnover reached 21.3%, the highest level in Bedford's five-year dataset.

- Female representation among CFOs reached 20.8%, the highest among the executive positions reviewed by Bedford.

The report also examines executive and Board compensation by company size, short- and long-term incentive design, equity compensation practices, change in control and severance provisions, share ownership guidelines, Board and executive diversity, and current compensation governance practices.

The 2026 Bedford Report on Board and Executive Compensation in the Mining Industry is available now from Bedford Group/TRANSEARCH. Boards and executives can use the study to test the competitiveness of their own programs – and, with Bedford's advisory expertise in compensation strategy, governance, and executive search, align pay and leadership with the long-term needs of the business. Access the report here.

*All currency conversions based on the Bank of Canada's 2025 average exchange rate.

About Bedford Group/TRANSEARCH

Bedford Group/TRANSEARCH is an executive search and talent management firm serving Canadian and international organizations. Bedford's compensation practice provides executive and director compensation benchmarking, incentive design, governance and advisory services and publishes annual industry-specific compensation reports.

SOURCE Bedford Group/TRANSEARCH

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Fans can enter for a chance to win a limited-edition Pierogy & Sour Cream couples costume that adds Mrs. T's Pierogies to your Halloween lineup, not just your freezer

SHENANDOAH, Pa., Oct. 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Who says the perfect food pairing has to stay on the dinner table? To celebrate National Pierogy Day on October 8, Mrs. T's is taking the beloved duo of pierogies and sour cream from mealtime to spooky season with limited-edition Pierogy & Sour Cream couples costumes, giving fans a whole new way to show off their love for pierogies all October long!

About Mrs. T's Pierogy & Sour Cream Costume Giveaway

Starting October 1, fans can enter* for a chance to snag a limited-edition Mrs. T's Pierogy & Sour Cream couples costume:

- Where: Sweepstakes post on @mrstspierogies' Instagram or Facebook page

- How to enter: Tag the person you'd want to dress up with, whether that's your BFF, boo or fellow pierogy lover

- What you could win: One (1) Mrs. T's Pierogy costume and one (1) Sour Cream costume, plus coupons redeemable for boxes of Mrs. T's Pierogies at major retailers

- How many winners: 100 lucky fans!

"Pierogies and sour cream have long been a go-to pairing at mealtime. So when our fans asked for costumes that brought their love for pierogies to life, we knew we had to make it happen," said Olivia Zawatski, Marketing Communications Manager at Mrs. T's Pierogies. "These limited-edition costumes put a playful spin on a pairing our fans already love, giving them a fun new way to celebrate National Pierogy Day with us this October. We can't wait to see how our Pierogy Squad gets into the spirit!"

Mrs. T's Pierogies Are the Freezer Staple You Need All Season Long

While the costumes are taking pierogies beyond the dinner table, Mrs. T's Pierogies remain a go-to freezer staple for mealtime, snacktime and everything in between. Budget-friendly and easy to prepare, they're perfect for busy weeknights, last-minute meals and those inevitable "I'm hungry!" moments. Whether it's a quick bite before trick-or-treating, a crowd-pleasing side for a festive gathering or a snack before a night of spooky fun, Mrs. T's makes it easy to keep the freezer stocked with something tasty for whatever the season brings.

The Story Behind National Pierogy Day

At its heart, National Pierogy Day is about celebrating the joy pierogies bring to mealtime. Celebrated each year on October 8, the holiday became official in 2008 and recognizes the day in 1952 when Mrs. T's Pierogies founder Ted Twardzik Sr., the son of the Mrs. T, made his very first pierogy sale to his local grocery store in Shenandoah, PA. The holiday recognizes pierogies – pasta pockets stuffed with the stuff you love: creamy mashed potatoes, cheesy goodness and other big, bold flavors that are best enjoyed with the ones you love.

Mrs. T's invites its #PierogySquad and first-time members to share how they are celebrating National Pierogy Day this year by using #NationalPierogyDay and tagging @mrstspierogies on social. To join the fun and celebrate National Pierogy Day, or for recipe inspiration, fans can visit www.mrstspierogies.com, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and Pinterest.

*NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Void where prohibited. Open to legal residents of 50 US/DC who are at least 18 years old as of date of entry. Begins 8:00 AM ET on October 1, 2026; ends 11:59PM ET on October 13, 2026. For Official Rules and eligibility, visit http://www.mrstspierogies.com/npd: Ateeco Inc. D/B/A Mrs. T's Pierogies.

About Mrs. T's Pierogies

In 1952, Ted Twardzik Sr. dreamed of starting a food company inspired by his mother's pierogy recipe. He remembered how popular the Polish dumplings were at church festivals and thought people would be excited to purchase them from their local grocery stores year-round. Later that year, Ted sold the very first pierogy samples to his local grocery store in Shenandoah, PA, and to honor his mother Mary Twardzik – the Mrs. T – he called his company Mrs. T's Pierogies. Now, more than 70 years later, Mrs. T's Pierogies is the largest producer of frozen pierogies, producing 600 million pierogies a year.

Categories: Food & Beverage, Consumer Campaigns, Holidays & Seasonal, Promotions & Giveaways

Tags: #NationalPierogyDay #PierogySquad #MrsTsPierogies #HalloweenCostumes

SOURCE Mrs. T's Pierogies

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