Month: July 2025

Program seeks to expand affordable access to e-bikes to support fun, sustainable trips

OAKLAND, Calif., July 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Ava Community Energy (Ava) today announced the launch of its Ava Bike Electric instant rebate program, which aims to increase equitable e-bike adoption, reduce transportation-related carbon emissions, and support local businesses. Ava is the not-for-profit public electricity supplier to Alameda County and the cities of Stockton, Lathrop, and Tracy.

Customers of Ava Community Energy, as well as residents of Alameda County who are 18 years or older, are eligible to participate in the program. Funding partner Alameda County Transportation Commission (Alameda CTC) provided $4 million of the $10 million program budget.

“Ava is dedicated to increasing access to cleaner energy and enabling the adoption of products that take advantage of it. Consumers are discovering that the electric option – be that a car, an induction cooktop, a heat pump, or a bike – is not only greener, it’s just a better experience,” said Howard Chang, CEO of Ava Community Energy. “What’s more, research shows that over half the daily trips taken in the US are under three miles. Shifting even a portion of those trips from a gas-powered car to an e-bike would have an outsized impact on our residents’ health, the economy, and air quality. We are proud to do our part to further e-bike adoption with the Ava Bike Electric program.”

The program aims to distribute between 8,200 and 9,200 instant rebates between now and September 2026. Approximately 600 rebates, worth $400 to $1,500 each, will be awarded every month through a random selection drawing. Over 40% of the program funds are reserved for eligible income-qualified applicants who are enrolled in California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE), Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA), or Energy Assistance Program (EAP).

“Expanding affordable access to e-bikes directly advances the Commission’s goals to support a transportation system that is both sustainable and equitable and advances innovation,” said Tony Tavares, Executive Director of Alameda CTC. “Alameda CTC is proud to deliver on Measure BB’s promise to invest in active transportation and improve quality of life in Alameda County.”

E-bikes are a fun and convenient carbon-free option for commutes, errands, outings, and recreation. The Ava Bike Electric program helps eligible participants get the right type of e-bike for their needs:

The program is designed not only to reduce carbon emissions and improve well-being, but also to invest in local businesses. All Ava Bike Electric instant rebates must be redeemed at a participating local bike shop. At the time of launch, the participating bike shops are:

Berkeley

• Blue Heron Bicycles
• Rad Power
• Sports Basement
• Stay True Cycles

Castro Valley

• Trek Bicycles of Castro Valley

City of Alameda

• Alameda Bicycle

Dublin

• Dublin Cyclery
• Trek Bicycle of Dublin

Fremont

• CentriPEDAL Bicycles
• The Bicycle Garage

Livermore

• Pedego Electric Bikes
• Trek Bicycle of Livermore

Oakland

• Laurel Cyclery
• Rhythm Bikes
• The New Wheel
• Tip Top Bike Shop
• Trek Bicycle of Oakland

Pleasanton

• Superfly Wheels

Stockton

• Robby’s Bicycles

Tracy

• Tracy Cyclery

Visit avaenergy.org/bike-electric to learn more, see if you qualify, and apply for a rebate.

About Ava Community Energy
Ava Community Energy (Ava) is the not-for-profit public power provider for more than 2 million residents and commercial customers in Alameda County and the cities of Tracy, Stockton, and Lathrop. As one of 25 community choice aggregation (CCA) programs operating in California, Ava is part of the movement to provide energy choice while expediting local and statewide climate action goals. Ava is committed to creating a brighter future in our communities and beyond by providing clean power at competitive rates, reinvesting in our member communities, and developing programs that make it easy for customers to discover and adopt clean energy solutions. To date, Ava has saved customers more than $150 million and contracted for more than one gigawatt of renewable energy projects. For more information about Ava Community Energy, visit AvaEnergy.org

Media Contact:
Mission Control Communications for Ava Community Energy
ava@missionc2.com

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SOURCE Ava Community Energy

Community members, customers, and supplier partners are encouraged to join in-store fundraising efforts through July 31

FORT WORTH, Texas, July 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — In the wake of the heartbreaking flooding that struck Kerr County and surrounding areas over the July 4th weekend, Yesway is joining the effort to provide comfort, support, and relief to those who need it most. As a company deeply rooted in Texas, we are humbled to stand alongside the people of the Hill Country during this incredibly difficult time.

To aid immediate recovery and long-term rebuilding, Yesway is pledging a $100,000 donation to the Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country’s Kerr County Flood Relief Fund. In the spirit of compassion and collective strength, we are also inviting our Yesway and Allsup’s customers, employees, and supplier partners to contribute through donations made at the checkout, so that together, we can raise as much money as possible for the affected communities.

Now through July 31, 2025, donations of $1, $5, $10, or more can be made at the register in any Yesway or Allsup’s store. Every dollar raised will be directed to the Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country’s relief efforts to help families and first responders recover and rebuild.

As reported by the Hilltown Community Journal, the floods came swiftly and without warning in the early hours of July 4th: “The flooding struck with deadly speed along the Guadalupe River, catching many off guard… Kerrville City Manager Dalton Rice said the Guadalupe River rose approximately 26 feet in just 45 minutes…” The damage has been extensive, with disaster declarations issued for 14 Texas counties, including Kerr, Gillespie, Comal, and Kimble, among others. Campsites, homes, and riverside communities have been destroyed. Lives have been lost, and search and rescue efforts continue even now. The road to recovery will be a long one.

“Our hearts are with the families, first responders, and entire communities whose lives were forever changed by these floods,” said Tom Trkla, Yesway’s Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer. “We are not first responders, but as neighbors and fellow Texans, all of our over 3,100 employees in the state feel a deep responsibility to help however we can. It is with gratitude and humility that we offer our support and ask others to join us. Even a small donation can be a lifeline for someone in need. Yesway has always believed in the power of community. While no single act can undo the devastation, we hope that, together, we can provide relief, restore hope, and remind those suffering that they are not alone.”

To find the Yesway or Allsup’s store closest to you where donations to Yesway’s fundraising campaign can be made, please visit Yesway.com/locations or Allsups.com/locations/.

Editor note: Contact Erin Vadala, Warner Communications; 617-669-1560; erin@warnerpr.com to arrange interviews. High-resolution images and graphics are available upon request.

About Yesway: Yesway is one of the fastest-growing convenience store operators in the United States. Established in 2015 and headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas, Yesway operates 444 stores across Texas, New Mexico, South Dakota, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Wyoming, Oklahoma, and Nebraska. The company operates under the trusted Yesway and Allsup’s brands and is renowned for its fresh, high-quality offerings, private-label products, and industry-leading food service—including the iconic Allsup’s burrito. Recognized for its innovation, customer loyalty program, and exceptional team, Yesway has earned numerous industry awards and continues to set the pace for growth and excellence in the convenience retail sector. Learn more at yesway.com.

About The Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country: Founded in 1982, the Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country is a public charitable foundation that supports nonprofits and local causes in the region. The Community Foundation grants funds to charities and awards scholarships to students throughout the Hill Country. On average, the Foundation distributes approximately $6 million each year.

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SOURCE Yesway

NEW YORK, July 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — As summer reaches its peak, Varminpool proudly introduces its high-performance variable speed pool pumps and smart pool heat pumps, engineered to deliver Pure Performance, Every Season. Designed with energy efficiency, durability, and environmental responsibility in mind, our innovative solutions redefine water heating and filtration, ensuring optimal comfort while reducing carbon footprints.

Ultra-Quiet, High-Efficiency Variable Speed Pool Pumps (1.8HP, 2.5HP, 3.0HP)

Ideal for residential and commercial use, Varminpool’s variable speed pool pumps combine power and precision with industry-leading low-noise operation. Featuring variable speed control, these pumps optimize energy consumption without sacrificing performance, making them up to 30% more efficient than conventional models. The built-in scheduling function allows users to automate operations, ensuring hassle-free maintenance and consistent water flow.

Smart, Eco-Friendly Smart Pool Heat Pumps (16,000BTU, 30,000BTU, 40,000BTU) 

For those seeking sustainable and cost-effective pool heating, Varminpool’s smart pool heat pumps offer superior energy efficiency, consuming up to 50% less energy than traditional heaters. Designed for near-silent operation, they ensure a peaceful environment while maintaining perfect water temperature. With WiFi-enabled remote control via the Smart Life App, users can schedule heating cycles, monitor, and adjust settings in real-time—all from their smartphones.

About Varminpool

This July, experience the perfect blend of innovation, efficiency, and comfort with Varminpool’s premium water and heating solutions. We believe in enhancing lives while protecting the planet. Our variable speed pool pump and smart pool heat pump technologies not only deliver unmatched performance but also align with global efforts to reduce energy consumption and promote green living. 

For more information, please visit the website: 
https://bit.ly/Varminpool-collections
For more Prime Day surprises, please visit the Amazon store:
https://amzn.to/3UCkVey

Why Choose Varminpool This Summer?

Whisper-quiet operation for undisturbed relaxation

Smart, app-controlled functionality for ultimate convenience

Significant energy savings with eco-friendly designs

Durable, long-lasting construction for year-round reliability

For media inquiries, please contact:
varminpool@gmail.com
Facebook：https://www.facebook.com/varminpoolpump
#PurePerformance #SustainableLiving #SmartHome #EnergyEfficiency

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SOURCE Varminpool

Google.org Support Enhances Workforce Readiness and Expands Economic Opportunities for Veterans.

WASHINGTON, July 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Student Veterans of America (SVA) today announced $4 million in funding from Google.org–the company’s philanthropy–that will significantly expand access to career training, and support services for student veterans nationwide. This includes offering access to the Google Career Certificates program and Google AI Essentials courses to provide training for in-demand skills. This funding strengthens workforce readiness and opens new economic pathways for those transitioning from the military to higher education and beyond. By pairing in-demand credentials, personalized guidance, and conducting research on strategies to support veterans, the funding will drive long-term opportunity for those who have served.

“This landmark support from Google.org supercharges our ability to serve student veterans,” said Jared Lyon, President and CEO of SVA. By combining cutting-edge Grow with Google AI training with our proven advising model, I’m confident we will break down barriers and open even more doors for veterans both on campus and during their careers.

“We’re incredibly proud to support Student Veterans of America,” said Lisa Gevelber, Founder of Grow with Google. “SVA’s extensive network and expertise will provide thousands of veterans with access to Google AI training to equip them with in-demand skills and help advance their economic potential for years to come.”

The initiative addresses unintended structural barriers that limit veterans’ access to meaningful career opportunities. In partnership with universities, employers, policymakers, and chambers of commerce, SVA will use Google.org funding to lead targeted research and engagement efforts across several states. In each state, SVA will convene veteran-focused roundtables and employer discussions to identify gaps between education and workforce needs. These findings will inform customized workforce roadmaps that include actionable, veteran-centered solutions.

To learn more about SVA, visit career.studentveterans.org.

About Student Veterans of America

Student Veterans of America (SVA) elevates the academic, professional, and personal development of veterans in higher education through chapter programs and services, outcomes and impacts research, and advocacy at every level. With a mission focused on empowering student veterans, SVA is committed to providing an educational experience that goes beyond the classroom.

Through a dedicated network of over 1,600 on-campus chapters in all 50 states and three countries overseas representing nearly 600,000 student veterans, SVA inspires yesterday’s warriors by connecting student veterans with a community of dedicated chapter leaders. Every day these passionate leaders work to provide the necessary resources, network support, and advocacy to ensure student veterans can effectively connect, expand their skills, and ultimately achieve their greatest potential.

About Google.org Google.org applies Google’s innovation, research, and resources to promote progress and expand opportunity for everyone.

Media Contacts:
Nick Palmisciano
nick@dieseljackmedia.com

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SOURCE Student Veterans of America