Visa, Street Soccer USA and Bank of America Join Forces to Expand Access to Soccer in Communities Across the United States

SAN FRANCISCO, June 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — At a ribbon-cutting event in San Francisco, Visa, Street Soccer USA (SSUSA) and Bank of America announced today an initiative to expand access to soccer across the United States. Harnessing the unifying power of soccer, the companies will provide open park space in six cities to bring people together, foster youth development, and strengthen community ties through sport and purpose-driven programming.

“This movement is about scale, sustainability, and impact,” said Lawrence Cann, Co-Founder and President of Street Soccer USA. “Alongside our partners, we are making a significant pass toward building a national network of parks that deliver real value—on and off the field. These are spaces where young people can grow, communities can connect, and every victory, big or small, can lead to meaningful change.”

Visa Street Soccer Parks, the first of which opened today in San Francisco, are intentionally designed to be vibrant centers for community engagement, offering more than just a space for soccer. Each park will feature two professional-grade Bank of America fields, providing facilities with lighting for evening activities, digital scoreboards, learning centers and seating areas for spectators and special events.

Park locations and projected opening:

  • San Francisco – Opened June 2025
  • DenverAugust 2025
  • Kansas CitySeptember 2025
  • New York CityOctober 2025
  • NashvilleNovember 2025
  • Atlanta – Winter 2025

As momentum builds ahead of one of the biggest landmark years for soccer in U.S. history, these parks will provide a local platform for community connection, growth, and opportunity – into 2026 and beyond.

“Through this partnership, we’re creating more than soccer parks—we’re building platforms for progress,” said Kim Lawrence, President, North America, Visa. “Each park represents a step toward stronger, more connected communities. By combining the power of sports with access to education and opportunity, we’re helping individuals and families move forward—one goal, one lesson, and one connection at a time.”

“Sports bring communities together, and over the next few years, the entire world will come together for soccer in North America,” said David Tyrie, President, Marketing, Digital and Specialized Consumer Client Solutions at Bank of America. “These fields will provide high-quality spaces where the lessons of soccer – teamwork, goal-setting, preparation and determination – come to life for the next generation.”

Each park will serve as a local hub for sport, learning, and engagement, offering year-round activities that include youth and adult leagues, after-school academic support, job readiness training, and more. Collectively, the parks represent more than a place to play—they’re a growing network of opportunity, built to connect communities and unite them through the game that brings the world together.

Visa
Visa (NYSE: V) is a world leader in digital payments, facilitating transactions between consumers, merchants, financial institutions and government entities across more than 200 countries and territories. Our mission is to connect the world through the most innovative, convenient, reliable and secure payments network, enabling individuals, businesses and economies to thrive. We believe that economies that include everyone everywhere, uplift everyone everywhere and see access as foundational to the future of money movement. Learn more at Visa.com.

Street Soccer USA 
Street Soccer USA is a national non-profit organization dedicated to addressing social issues through soccer-based programs, providing underserved communities with pathways to achieve their potential. With a focus on accessible soccer programming and park development, SSUSA fosters safe, community-driven environments that empower individuals and strengthen neighborhoods. Through long standing relationships with municipal and state partners, thousands of donors, and key foundation, brands and pro soccer partners like Adam R. Scripps Foundation, UNIQLO, Borussia Dortmund, Serie A among others, SSUSA has grown to serve tens of thousands of youth and families each year across 16 cities, nationally, and growing.

Bank of America
Bank of America is one of the world’s leading financial institutions, serving individual consumers, small and middle-market businesses and large corporations with a full range of banking, investing, asset management and other financial and risk management products and services. The company provides unmatched convenience in the United States, serving approximately 69 million consumer and small business clients with approximately 3,700 retail financial centers, approximately 15,000 ATMs (automated teller machines) and award-winning digital banking with approximately 59 million verified digital users. Bank of America is a global leader in wealth management, corporate and investment banking and trading across a broad range of asset classes, serving corporations, governments, institutions and individuals around the world. Bank of America offers industry-leading support to approximately 4 million small business households through a suite of innovative, easy-to-use online products and services. The company serves clients through operations across the United States, its territories and more than 35 countries. Bank of America Corporation stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: BAC).

For more Bank of America news, including dividend announcements and other important information, visit the Bank of America newsroom and register for news email alerts.

Reporters may contact:

Andy Aldridge, Bank of America
Phone: 1.980.387.0514
andrew.aldridge@bofa.com

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SOURCE Bank of America Corporation

Everlight Solar Wins Comparably’s 2025 Best Career Growth Award

VERONA, Wis., June 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Everlight Solar is proud to announce that it has been recognized by Comparably with the Best Company for Career Growth Award. This honor is especially meaningful because it’s based on feedback from the people who know the company best: its team members.

Comparably’s rankings are drawn from employee ratings on professional development opportunities, internal mobility, mentorship, and overall satisfaction. This recognition is a powerful reflection of the culture Everlight Solar has built—one that values learning, promotes from within, and celebrates growth at every level.

From the first day on the job, team members at Everlight Solar aren’t just starting a role—they’re beginning a journey. Whether someone is a sales representative, part of the installation crew, or working behind the scenes in project management or operations, they’ll find real opportunities to level up their skills and grow their careers. The company also offers internship and apprenticeship programs designed to give emerging professionals hands-on experience, build confidence, and discover their path in the renewable energy industry.

“Career growth at Everlight doesn’t just happen – it’s built into the culture. From the start, you notice how often one-on-ones happen. I’ve never seen a company put this much emphasis on regular communication between operations and management. It creates real opportunities for people to voice their goals and align them with the company’s direction,” states Rebekah Harris, Associate Manager of Recruitment. “There’s also a strong coaching mindset here. Leadership actively encourages growth through tools like Radical Candor, helping managers learn how to give meaningful, constructive feedback. And above all, Everlight is a meritocracy. Everyone owns their growth. If you’re driven, the opportunities are there, but be ready to bring your A-game, because you’re surrounded by some of the best.”

As the fastest-growing solar company in the Midwest, Everlight Solar recognizes that its momentum is powered by passionate individuals who are always looking to take the next step. This award adds to the company’s growing list of honors and is a testament to the incredible culture that has made Everlight Solar a place where careers thrive.

About Everlight Solar

Everlight Solar is the fastest-growing solar company in the Midwest, with operations in Wisconsin, Minnesota, Idaho, Nebraska, Oregon, Utah, and Wyoming. Everlight Solar earned a spot on both the 2023 Inc. 5000 and 2024 Inc. 5000 lists in its first two years of eligibility. To learn more about open job opportunities or about going solar for your home, visit www.everlightsolar.com.

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SOURCE Everlight Solar

New Holland Presents the Largest Harvester Manufactured in Brazil

CNH brand, New Holland recently presented a number of highlights at AgroBrasília 2025 including the new line of CR harvesters. 

The CR10, the largest grain harvester manufactured in Brazil, with an engine with 639 hp of nominal power and 700 hp of maximum power took center stage. The brand also launched the Defensor 4000 sprayer, in addition to showing other products and services aimed at small, medium and large producers.

“The new CRs bring more technology and sensors that allow more readings and identify, for example, broken grains or dirty grains, in addition to proactively making adjustments to adapt the machine to harvesting conditions. It is intelligent automation in real time, ensuring maximum performance, low loss rates and excellent grain quality, in addition to offering more autonomy in decision-making, according to what is best for the harvest”, says Eduardo Kerbauy, New Holland’s vice president for Latin America.

Also featured was IntelliSpray™ II, which performs nozzle-to-nozzle sectional control and cutting, reducing waste and optimizing pesticide application. In addition, the integrated recirculation system prevents sedimentation, ensuring uniformity and maximum quality in spraying. These features ensure absolute precision in application, maximum efficiency and economy, and higher quality and stability, ensuring the best spraying even in harsh conditions.

Read more here.

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Ozinga Breaks Ground on North America’s Largest Low-Carbon Cement Mill

CHICAGO, June 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Ozinga has officially broken ground on a cutting-edge low-carbon cement manufacturing facility in East Chicago, Indiana. Equipped with one of North America’s largest vertical roller mills, the new plant will produce one million tons of low-carbon cementitious materials annually.

Strategically located with direct access to rail, truck, and water (via the Great Lakes and the inland waterways of the U.S.), the facility will serve customers across the United States and Canada, reinforcing Ozinga’s commitment to sustainable infrastructure, supply chain resilience, and American manufacturing.

“Ozinga has always believed that true innovation isn’t just about progress, it’s about purpose,” said Marty Ozinga, CEO of Ozinga. “This facility is more than a plant. It’s a commitment to the future of American manufacturing, to sustainable building, and to strengthening American communities for generations to come.”

Investing in Communities and American Manufacturing

The East Chicago facility and its related operations are projected to create approximately 150 construction and long-term full-time jobs, fueling regional economic growth. Operations are expected to begin in 2026.

“This is the kind of investment that strengthens communities and provides real opportunity for local families,” said Anthony Copeland, Mayor of East Chicago.

With over 2,500 employees nationwide, Ozinga continues to prioritize sustainability, community development, and innovation. The East Chicago facility marks a major milestone in the company’s mission to deliver net zero concrete by 2030.

Reducing Emissions, Strengthening Supply Chains

Concrete is the backbone of modern infrastructure essential to homes, schools, hospitals, roads, and bridges. Yet traditional Portland cement, its core ingredient, accounts for nearly 7% of global CO₂ emissions. In 2024, the United States imported nearly 30 million tons of cement, leaving infrastructure projects vulnerable to supply chain instability and trade volatility.

Ozinga’s East Chicago facility directly addresses this challenge. By producing domestic low-carbon cements, it will reduce dependence on imports and dramatically lower embodied carbon in construction materials, supporting both environmental goals and economic resilience.

Powered by North America’s Largest Low-Carbon Vertical Roller Mill

At the heart of the facility is the MVR5300-C6 vertical roller mill from Gebr. Pfeiffer, the largest of its kind in North America. With six independent rollers and unmatched throughput capacity, the mill maximizes energy efficiency while minimizing carbon emissions.

“This isn’t just a plant—it’s a technological milestone,” said Timothy Burden, President of Gebr. Pfeiffer Americas. “The MVR5300-C6 sets a new benchmark for sustainable cement production.”

The facility will produce ASTM C989-compliant low-carbon slag cement, as well as proprietary blends under Ozinga’s CarbonSense™ brand, meeting ASTM C1157 performance standards and delivering up to 80% reductions in embodied carbon. Once fully operational, the plant is projected to offset more than 700,000 metric tons of CO₂ emissions annually, a significant reduction in the carbon footprint of U.S. construction.

Driving Innovation Through Collaboration

Ozinga’s leadership in sustainable building materials has been strengthened by partnerships with Meta, the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, and other industry leaders. These collaborations have yielded AI-optimized low-carbon concrete, used in Meta’s DeKalb, IL data center, and enabled a 64% reduction in embodied carbon at the award-winning Amazon Web Services New Carlisle, IN data center, setting a new industry benchmark.

The new East Chicago facility is a timely response to the growing demand for low-carbon concrete in data center construction and other mission-critical infrastructure projects across North America.

About Ozinga
Ozinga is a fifth-generation, family-owned American company providing concrete, bulk materials, and construction solutions for commercial, industrial, and residential projects. Committed to service, learning, and entrepreneurship, Ozinga continues to develop environmentally responsible products and practices that make a positive impact and shape the future of the built environment.

Contact: Joe Brettell
Prosody Consulting
(571) 230-3411
jbrettell@prosodyconsulting.com 

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SOURCE Ozinga

DICK'S Sporting Goods Signs On As the Official Sporting Goods Retail Partner of Fanatics Fest NYC

Originally published on DICK’S Sporting Goods Newsroom

PITTSBURGH, June 11, 2025 /3BL/ — DICK’S Sporting Goods (NYSE: DKS) and Fanatics announced that DICK’S will serve as the Official Sporting Goods Retail Partner of this year’s Fanatics Fest NYC, which takes place from June 20-22 at the Javits Center. As part of this deal, DICK’S will also serve as the Presenting Partner of the Fanatics Fest Kids Zone.

“After just one year, Fanatics Fest has become a major sports culture event,” said Emily Silver, Chief Marketing and Athlete Experience Officer at DICK’S. “As a company rooted in sport and experience, we could not be more thrilled to join Fanatics Fest and bring sport-centered moments to life for collectors and fans.”

The DICK’S Sporting Goods footprint at Fanatics Fest will be on the main show floor. DICK’S brand ambassador, and one of the world’s biggest streamers and content creators, IShowSpeed, will stop by to film content for his recently announced “Speed Goes Pro” YouTube series, which is produced in partnership with DICK’S Sporting Goods. Some of the other fan experiences will include:

  • A public viewing of the one-of-one Paul Skenes Topps MLB Debut Patch card, which will be displayed in a replica Collectors Club House, a new collectors’ space found in select DICK’S House of Sport stores featuring trading cards and memorabilia experiences.
  • Competitions in HitTrax™ batting cages and golf bays with TrackMan™ simulators, including a Closest to the Pin contest, with special guest IShowSpeed, as part of Fanatics Games.
  • Giveaways including autographed sports memorabilia, and more.
  • Complimentary athlete appearances with meet and greet opportunities.
  • Access to live podcast tapings from shows hosted by top names in sport.

“As we quickly approach this summer’s Fanatics Fest NYC, we’re thrilled to level up and bring on DICK’S Sporting Goods as a collaborative on-site partner,” said Lance Fensterman, CEO of Fanatics Events. “DICK’S shares a commitment to providing lasting consumer experiences and their presence in 2025 will add a new element throughout the weekend – enhancing the festival’s atmosphere and creating incredible memories for attendees of all ages.”

Additionally, at the Fanatics Fest Kids Zone, DICK’S, in partnership with Nike, GameChanger and RCX Sports, will give kids an opportunity to join open play activities, participate in combine-style training, and meet some of their favorite professional athletes.

Fanatics Fest is an immersive, interactive festival where fans come together to celebrate their passions and gain exposure into new areas of the sports and collecting ecosystem. Based on the incredible success of the first year, the 2025 event features a larger space inside the Javits Center, where fans can expect a more expansive schedule of live, on-site programming, panels and discussions; larger superstores and autograph zones; a much wider array of exclusive collabs and products; more space for league and brand activations; and a larger trading card and collectibles exhibit.

For information on Fanatics Fest and to purchase tickets for the event, please visit FanaticsFest.com.

About DICK’S Sporting Goods
DICK’S Sporting Goods (NYSE: DKS) creates confidence and excitement by inspiring, supporting and personally equipping all athletes to achieve their dreams. Founded in 1948 and headquartered in Pittsburgh, the leading omni-channel retailer serves athletes and outdoor enthusiasts in more than 850 DICK’S Sporting Goods, Golf Galaxy, Public Lands and Going Going Gone! stores, online, and through the DICK’S mobile app. DICK’S also owns and operates DICK’S House of Sport and Golf Galaxy Performance Center, as well as GameChanger, a youth sports mobile platform for live streaming, scheduling, communications and scorekeeping.

Driven by its belief that sports have the power to change lives, DICK’S has been a longtime champion for youth sports and, together with its Foundation, has donated millions of dollars to support under-resourced teams and athletes through the Sports Matter program and other community-based initiatives. Additional information about DICK’S business, corporate giving and employment opportunities can be found on dicks.com, investors.dicks.com, sportsmatter.org, dickssportinggoods.jobs and on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook and X.

About Fanatics Events
Fanatics Events is building the largest network of sports and collector fan events around the world, offering fans the opportunity to come together in-person to celebrate all aspects of fandom—collectibles, memorabilia, fashion, music, and entertainment—and participate in unique fan experiences. Fanatics Events is uniquely positioned to innovate the live and special events space by offering integrated, personalized, and immersive fan experiences—uniting fans for a common purpose, creating connections, offering a sense of identity and community across generations, and maximizing the presence and reach for Fanatics partners.

Media Contact
DICK’S Sporting Goods – press@dcsg.com
Fanatics – Brandon Williams, brawilliams@fanatics.com

Category: Company

SOURCE DICK’S Sporting Goods, Inc.

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Teva Honored With Power of Partnership Award for Global Health Impact

Teva Pharmaceuticals has been recognized with the 2025 Power of Partnership Award by Americares, in collaboration with the Healthcare Distribution Alliance (HDA), for its exceptional commitment to expanding access to medicines for underserved communities around the world.

The award was presented to Carol Richardson, Teva’s U.S. Head of Sustainability and Health Equity, during the HDA Business and Leadership Conference in Orlando, Florida, on June 2.

A Legacy of Giving

Teva’s partnership with Americares spans nearly three decades, during which the company has donated enough medicine to fill nearly 19 million prescriptions. In 2024 alone, Teva contributed $48 million worth of essential medicines to Americares to support health centers in low- and middle-income countries.

These donations have reached 124 countries, providing treatments for respiratory illnesses, hypertension, diabetes, depression, and more. Teva’s support has also been critical in disaster response efforts, including the 2010 Haiti earthquake, flooding in the Philippines, and the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Ukraine.

“Expanding access to medicines for underserved populations is a core element of Teva’s Healthy Future sustainability strategy,” said Richardson. “Teva is honored to receive this prestigious recognition from Americares, our longstanding partner, and we look forward to continuing our work together to help provide quality care to people in need around the world.”

Innovation in Access

In 2024, Teva launched a produce-to-give program, creating a dedicated supply of essential medicines for three Americares partner health facilities in El Salvador. In its first year, the program delivered enough medicine to fill over 13,500 prescriptions, addressing infections, cardiovascular disease, and gastrointestinal conditions.

Recognizing Impact

“Teva is one of Americares most dedicated and longstanding supporters,” said Dr. Adam Schwartz, Deputy Medical Officer at Americares. “With Teva’s support, we are increasing access to health for people and communities in need all over the world.”

HDA President and CEO Chester “Chip” Davis, Jr. added, “We applaud Teva’s work with Americares to donate lifesaving medicines to patients worldwide, as well as Teva’s commitment to enhancing health outcomes for individuals.”

Posted in UncategorizedTagged

Dozing Breaks Ground on North America’s Largest Low-Carbon Cement Mill

CHICAGO, June 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Ozinga has officially broken ground on a cutting-edge low-carbon cement manufacturing facility in East Chicago, Indiana. Equipped with one of North America’s largest vertical roller mills, the new plant will produce one million tons of low-carbon cementitious materials annually.

Strategically located with direct access to rail, truck, and water (via the Great Lakes and the inland waterways of the U.S.), the facility will serve customers across the United States and Canada, reinforcing Ozinga’s commitment to sustainable infrastructure, supply chain resilience, and American manufacturing.

“Ozinga has always believed that true innovation isn’t just about progress, it’s about purpose,” said Marty Ozinga, CEO of Ozinga. “This facility is more than a plant. It’s a commitment to the future of American manufacturing, to sustainable building, and to strengthening American communities for generations to come.”

Investing in Communities and American Manufacturing

The East Chicago facility and its related operations are projected to create approximately 150 construction and long-term full-time jobs, fueling regional economic growth. Operations are expected to begin in 2026.

“This is the kind of investment that strengthens communities and provides real opportunity for local families,” said Anthony Copeland, Mayor of East Chicago.

With over 2,500 employees nationwide, Ozinga continues to prioritize sustainability, community development, and innovation. The East Chicago facility marks a major milestone in the company’s mission to deliver net zero concrete by 2030.

Reducing Emissions, Strengthening Supply Chains

Concrete is the backbone of modern infrastructure essential to homes, schools, hospitals, roads, and bridges. Yet traditional Portland cement, its core ingredient, accounts for nearly 7% of global CO₂ emissions. In 2024, the United States imported nearly 30 million tons of cement, leaving infrastructure projects vulnerable to supply chain instability and trade volatility.

Ozinga’s East Chicago facility directly addresses this challenge. By producing domestic low-carbon cements, it will reduce dependence on imports and dramatically lower embodied carbon in construction materials, supporting both environmental goals and economic resilience.

Powered by North America’s Largest Low-Carbon Vertical Roller Mill

At the heart of the facility is the MVR5300-C6 vertical roller mill from Gebr. Pfeiffer, the largest of its kind in North America. With six independent rollers and unmatched throughput capacity, the mill maximizes energy efficiency while minimizing carbon emissions.

“This isn’t just a plant—it’s a technological milestone,” said Timothy Burden, President of Gebr. Pfeiffer Americas. “The MVR5300-C6 sets a new benchmark for sustainable cement production.”

The facility will produce ASTM C989-compliant low-carbon slag cement, as well as proprietary blends under Ozinga’s CarbonSense™ brand, meeting ASTM C1157 performance standards and delivering up to 80% reductions in embodied carbon. Once fully operational, the plant is projected to offset more than 700,000 metric tons of CO₂ emissions annually, a significant reduction in the carbon footprint of U.S. construction.

Driving Innovation Through Collaboration

Ozinga’s leadership in sustainable building materials has been strengthened by partnerships with Meta, the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, and other industry leaders. These collaborations have yielded AI-optimized low-carbon concrete, used in Meta’s DeKalb, IL data center, and enabled a 64% reduction in embodied carbon at the award-winning Amazon Web Services New Carlisle, IN data center, setting a new industry benchmark.

The new East Chicago facility is a timely response to the growing demand for low-carbon concrete in data center construction and other mission-critical infrastructure projects across North America.

About Ozinga
Ozinga is a fifth-generation, family-owned American company providing concrete, bulk materials, and construction solutions for commercial, industrial, and residential projects. Committed to service, learning, and entrepreneurship, Ozinga continues to develop environmentally responsible products and practices that make a positive impact and shape the future of the built environment.

Contact: Joe Brettell
Prosody Consulting
(571) 230-3411
jbrettell@prosodyconsulting.com 

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SOURCE Ozinga

SIR JIMMY ANDERSON UNVEILS DP WORLD’S SUPPORT FOR GRASSROOTS AT HOME OF CRICKET

LONDON, June 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — DP World, the international logistics business, today brought its Beyond Boundaries Initiative to Lord’s cricket ground with the help of England legend Sir James Anderson.

Rashid Abdulla, CEO & MD, Europe at DP World said, “Bringing the Beyond Boundaries Initiative to Europe for the first time is a proud milestone for DP World. In partnership with the ICC and MCC Foundation, and enabled by our supply chain solutions capability, we are helping to expand access to the game by supporting grassroots facilities across the region.”

The delivery of 250 cricket kits in a repurposed shipping container comes ahead of this week’s ICC World Test Championship Final, of which DP World is the Global Logistics Partner. The kits – each including a bat, pads, gloves, and helmet – will be distributed to schools across Britain in partnership with the MCC Foundation.

“It’s great to see the support of an ICC partner extending to the grassroots game around the world and now arriving in the UK ahead of this week’s final,” commented Sir James Anderson. “Opportunity and access are everything in growing cricket here, so DP World’s provision of kits to the school system is a huge moment.”

The initiative will continue to be bolstered by a kits-for-runs scheme during the test match between South Africa and Australia, just as has been active at all ICC pinnacle tournaments since the initiative’s launch.

Anurag Dahiya, Chief Commercial Officer of the ICC, added “Partnerships don’t take a more authentic form than the staunch grassroots support DP World has shown. The Beyond Boundaries Initiative has already impacted lives in New York, Namibia and beyond – and now it’s making a difference at the heart of cricket tradition.”

Angus Berry, Director of Operations for the MCC Foundation, said: “We feel a responsibility to the grassroots game in this country and beyond. This collaboration with DP World, arriving at Lord’s ahead of the ICC World Test Championship Final, underlines our shared commitment to creating access and opportunity for all young cricketers.”

To date, the Beyond Boundaries Initiative has delivered 12 repurposed shipping containers, distributed 3,000 cricket kits, activated programs in 8 countries across 4 continents, and empowered over 15,000 young people to play cricket.

Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2707422/Beyond_Boundaries_Initiative_UK.jpg
Logo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2707423/DP_World_Logo.jpg

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SOURCE DP World

From Intern to Employee: Gary Vinson and Blake Rader's Journey at Covia

At Covia, investing in young talent isn’t just about filling positions – it’s about cultivating the next generation of industry leaders. Our summer internship program is committed to providing students with hands-on experience and mentorship that can prepare them for their professional future.

Today, we’re excited to spotlight two exceptional team members who have made the journey from Covia intern to full-time employee: Gary Vinson, Quality Coordinator and Blake Rader, Associate IT Service Desk.

Gary Vinson

Gary’s journey with Covia began after graduating from Michigan Technological University, when he joined our team as an operations intern at our Roff, Oklahoma plant. During his internship, Gary’s primary project involved quantifying and mapping the extensive water and slurry line systems across the plant that highlighted his analytical skills and attention to detail.

Overseeing Quality and Compliance in His Current Role

After his internship ended, Gary’s experience helped set the stage for his transition into a permanent role. Gary found an opportunity as quality coordinator at Covia’s Chardon, Ohio Plant and now serves as the primary liaison for customer requests and inquiries, handling everything from audits to product samples.

Gary’s day-to-day work includes tracking key operational metrics such as tons shipped, production levels, and operational efficiency indicators. He also took on added responsibilities to help ensure the plant maintains environmental compliance. These measures range from checking wastewater treatment and monitoring visible emissions to helping Covia ensure responsible environmental operations.

Continued Learning in Operations

While Gary has made the transition from intern to employee, the ability to grow professionally has continued. He considers working alongside veteran team members — some of whom have been at the plant for 48 years — an excellent opportunity to expand his technical expertise.

“Since I’ve been here, I’ve pretty much learned a new thing every single day, in both professional development and our production,” Gary said. “Everybody on the management team at the plant – have been excellent, thorough teachers the entire time that I’ve been here.”

Looking Ahead for Growth in Chardon

One of the most rewarding aspects of Gary’s role has been his involvement in specialized turf projects, such as working on engineered sand products for football fields and country clubs.

Beyond the business aspects, Gary appreciates the unique environment at the Chardon plant where wildlife sightings add an unexpected dimension to his daily inspections and dam monitoring responsibilities.

“Whenever I’m inspecting dams here, it usually involves a lot of travel time spent walking between them,” Gary explains, citing regular deer and beaver sightings as highlights. “One day a couple months ago, I saw seven or eight deer in a row come out across the road. There’s also an osprey nest by our west quarry that was empty for a couple of years and now it has a couple of birds.”

Blake Rader

Blake’s path to Covia began through Cleveland State University’s co-op program, where he first learned about our internship opportunities. As an IT intern, he gained exposure to multiple teams within the IT department, providing him with a comprehensive understanding of technology operations that proved invaluable in his current role at Covia’s Independence, Ohio headquarters.

Taking the Lead in Technological Support

As an Associate in the IT Service Desk, Blake’s current responsibilities revolve around incident management and user support. These duties primarily focus on tackling different incidents and technology-related challenges, whether someone is dealing with computer and server issues or needs a new account or software on their computer.

In addition to handling ongoing requests, Blake also takes proactive measures to help set up everyone at the Independence office for success. Blake conducts weekly rounds to check all the conference rooms to ensure that all the cameras, TVs, and other equipment are properly set up so that team members can have a smooth experience conducting Teams calls and other meetings.

Asking All the Right Questions

Like Gary, Blake’s experience has included plenty of opportunities for continuous learning. His involvement in Covia’s energy carve-out has helped him support others in the organization and get more experience navigating complex organizational transitions. During this process, he cites the strong support he’s received from fellow IT team members as a notable factor in his continued growth.

“Everyone is very open to questions, so I’ve been pushed to ask as many questions as I want, and everyone will try to give the best answer they can,” Blake said. “I’ve been able to learn everything I need to do my job and also understand more about advanced systems that help me do my job better.”

A More Connected Future

While Blake is based in Ohio, his aspirations extend beyond the Buckeye State. Blake sees a lot of potential in improving IT infrastructure across Covia’s more isolated locations.

“Some of Covia’s locations are in remote areas with limited phone service,” Blake explains. “Once we set up IT infrastructure and an internet connection, communication will be easier for them, and they will be able to interact with all our systems.”

Blake’s vision of establishing better internet connectivity and a more robust IT structure would help more than just the people at these different locations – it would enable better communication and system integration throughout the organization.

When he’s not busy planning for the future and supporting team members’ needs in the present, Blake is embracing a musical passion from his past. Blake has played trombone since grade school and is a member of Cleveland State University’s Athletic Band. While his days of playing during the NCAA Women’s Division I Basketball Tournament are behind him, he’s able to continue his trombone tradition as a member of a community band in Bay Village, Ohio.

A Tradition of Talent: Investing in Tomorrow’s Leaders

As Covia continues to grow and innovate in the industrial minerals industry, investing in talented individuals like Gary and Blake ensures that Covia maintains its position as a leader in providing innovative solutions for industrial markets. Their journeys from interns to essential team members show that with the right support and opportunities, young professionals can make significant contributions while building fulfilling careers in our industry.

We’re also excited to see who will join Gary and Blake as the next people to turn an internship into a career at Covia. We welcome our Summer 2025 interns and can’t wait to support their professional development and help them thrive in the industry.

Whether you are a college student looking for an internship or an industry professional seeking an organization that empowers its team to succeed, check out our careers page to find an opportunity near you.

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Vilore Foods Launches La Costeña® Tastemakers Challenge with Celebrity Chef Pati Jinich to Celebrate Mexican Flavor and Culinary Creativity

A launch pad for aspiring food content creators, the movement will inspire digital foodies and empower home chefs

SAN ANTONIO, June 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Think you have what it takes to be the next big foodie influencer? Vilore Foods, a U.S. authority on distribution and brand builder of culturally connected food and beverage products, announced today the launch of the Tastemakers Challenge from its legacy brand La Costeña®, the go-to brand for authentic Mexican ingredients, like beans, peppers, salsa, and more. This exciting recipe competition and movement invites home chefs and food enthusiasts to showcase unique recipes using La Costeña® products and the brand’s signature bold flavors, with entries judged by a panel including celebrity chef Pati Jinich, the James Beard Award-winning host of “Pati’s Mexican Table,” “La Frontera with Pati Jinich,” and “Pati Jinich Explores Panamericana.”

 

“The Tastemakers Challenge is about supporting and building the next generation of food content creators who are as passionate about flavor and creativity as we are,” said Edgar R. Vargas, Director of Growth and Brand Development for Vilore Foods. “Vilore and our standout brand, La Costeña, has a rich history in hispanic kitchens and as we see love for the brand spread across the U.S., we want to celebrate the bold and deliciousness our fans create. We’re searching for our next star and if you think you have what it takes, we’re ready to see what you’ve got!”

The Tastemakers Challenge, a multi-stage competition, will judge entries based on creativity, flavor, and use of La Costeña® ingredients. Every two weeks, three winners will be selected to advance to the next round, getting one step closer to earning the title of Ultimate Tastemaker, winning $5,000 in premium content creation gear, and a special opportunity to collaborate with Pati Jinich on a virtual cooking segment.

As part of its goal to uplift rising culinary voices, La Costeña® will feature standout entries on Instagram and reward bi-weekly winners with up to $1,500 worth of professional-grade gear to help creators grow their skills and their platforms. Prizes include content creation kits (cameras, tripods, microphones, and more) and kitchen upgrades like high-quality cookware, blenders, and chef essentials. Select participants may also be considered for future brand opportunities and collaborations with La Costeña®.

To enter, participants must post their recipe videos as a Reel on Instagram using the hashtag #Tastemakerschallenge and tag @_mexicorico to be eligible.

Key dates for the Tastemakers Challenge include:

  • Round 1 Winners: June 4
  • Round 2 Winners: June 18
  • Round 3 Winners: July 2
  • Round 4 Winners: July 16

On July 16, the final phase begins. The four first-place winners will go head-to-head for the grand prize. The Ultimate Tastemaker will be crowned on July 30.

La Costeña® products are available on Amazon and at retailers across the U.S, including Walmart and Target. For more information about the Tastemakers Challenge, including Terms & Conditions, visit www.tastemakerschallenge.com.

About Vilore Foods
Since 1982, Vilore Foods has been a trusted partner in the global food market, specializing in the import, distribution, and brand development of culturally connected consumer products. Headquartered in San Antonio, TX, Vilore represents a dynamic portfolio that includes beloved Hispanic brands like La Costeña®, Jumex®, Congelli®, and Pronto®, and serves as a strategic distribution partner for global names such as Procter & Gamble and Mead Johnson Nutrition.

With over four decades of expertise, Vilore Foods offers a robust national distribution network, strong retail partnerships, and an expanding digital presence — redefining what it means to bring Hispanic heritage brands to today’s modern, multicultural consumer at scale. From navigating complex supply chains to providing secure storage and reliable delivery, Vilore is committed to helping partners streamline operations, expand their reach, and grow their business.

To learn more, visit www.vilore.com.

About La Costeña®
La Costeña® is a storied Mexican food brand with a legacy that began in 1923. Founded by Don Vicente López Resines, the brand started as a small grocery store famous for its serrano peppers and long peppers in vinegar. As the brand’s popularity grew, it expanded from its original Mexico City location to a larger facility in Ecatepec, which remains its main production site today.

Over the years, La Costeña® has made significant advancements. They were among the first to adopt lead-free electrostatically sealed containers, enhancing product safety and environmental responsibility. Additionally, the brand introduced the “easy open” system and embraced modern packaging technologies, including aseptic cartons and automated distribution centers. Their commitment to quality has been recognized with various industry awards.

To learn more about La Costeña®, visit www.lacostena.com

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SOURCE Vilore Foods