Advances in Automation for CNH Construction Vehicles

Two new automated systems, Click&Dig and Perception, are being introduced on CASE Construction Equipment’s wheel loaders to improve productivity and safety.

At CNH’s CASE Construction Equipment plant in Lecce, southern Italy, a team of young engineers are working toward a long-term goal of creating fully autonomous construction vehicles. The team, led by Advanced Electronics Manager Andrea Gravili, this year reaches a milestone, with two important automated functions coming to the market.

They are Click&Dig, which has three automated processes for wheel loaders — AutoDig, AutoDump and AutoMetering — and Perception, an AI-based system of cameras and sensors that detects obstacles and people around the vehicle to improve safety and support the operator’s decision-making.

Perception, CNH’s sensing system, was trained using AI to recognize different types of obstacles typically found on a construction site, from piles of rocks to other vehicles to people, says Gravili. Perception does not rely only on what it can ‘see’. “When the system is looking behind the vehicle, it can recognize or detect obstacles using both a camera and a radar,” he explains. “If there is dust on the camera, we can rely on the radar.” The operator is then alerted to press the brake.

The purpose of the advanced electronics team’s work is not to replace operators, according to Antonio Venezia, Director of Electronics for Construction Equipment at CNH. “I don’t spend eight hours a day every day in my car, but operators spend eight hours a day working in our vehicles,” he says. “The most important part of our job is to help them do their jobs better, in a more comfortable way.”

Read the full story here.

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Fifth Third Gifts $40,000 to Pet Owners on National Dog Day

CINCINNATI, August 26, 2025 /3BL/ – The cost of pet care has reached an all-time high, with pet households estimated to spend an average of $1,733 annually, according to industry analyses – making it difficult for some pet owners to keep up with expenses.

Fifth Third (NASDAQ: FITB) supports pets and the people who care for them year-round through Provide, which helps veterinarians and other practitioners achieve their practice ownership dreams. Now, the Bank is supporting pet owners directly in conjunction with National Dog Day.

On Tuesday Fifth Third surprised about 750 pet owners at 37 pet-related businesses in Chicago, Knoxville, Nashville, Orlando & Jacksonville with gifts to help offset the cost of pet care, including $53 gift cards and packs of pet toys, treats and other goodies for their furry friends.

“To celebrate our pets – and help offset some of the cost of caring for them – we were excited to bring our popular Fifth Third Pets program back for a second year,” said Kevin Whitman, brand manager for Fifth Third. “At Fifth Third we put 166.7% into everything we do for our customers and supporting them on National Dog Day is just one example of how we can help build healthier, happier communities for pets and humans alike.”

The surprises took place at select veterinary offices, pet stores, groomers and day cares, including 10 Pet Paradise locations across Jacksonville, Orlando and Tennessee.

“As a longstanding partner, we’ve seen firsthand Fifth Third Bank’s dedication to both their clients and the communities they serve,” said Pet Paradise CEO Alex Miller. “Fifth Third Pets is a wonderful reflection of that commitment. We are proud to collaborate on this initiative and celebrate with Fifth Third Bank at our Pet Paradise resorts during National Dog Day.”

Among the goodies in each pet pack are treats from Beer City Dog Biscuits in Grand Rapids, Michigan, a company dedicated to supporting adults with disabilities in their personal and professional growth. Each of Beer City’s dog biscuits is hand-made and packaged by adults with intellectual and developmental challenges.

At Fifth Third’s corporate headquarters in Cincinnati, Ohio, Fifth Third also contributed $5,300 to SPCA Cincinnati and funded pet adoptions through the “Pups & Players” partnership associated with the Cincinnati Open tennis tournament. Fifth Third also brought back its popular Fur-nancial Pawdcast, a playful social media series where employees’ pets “talk” about financial wellness, for a second year.

From Aug. 26 through Sept. 30, the public also has the opportunity to participate in a social media sweepstakes via Instagram to win one of 53 $53 gift cards and a Fifth Third Pet Pack. More information and full sweepstakes rules are available online at 53.com/pets.1

1 NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Sweepstakes open to legal residents of the U.S., excluding New York. At least 18 years old to enter. Odds of winning depend upon the number of eligible entries received. Void where prohibited. Sweepstakes begins at 8:00 AM EST on August 26, 2025, and all entries must be received no later than 11:59 PM EST on September 30, 2025. For complete sweepstakes rules visit 53.com/pets. Sweepstakes is in no way sponsored, endorsed, administered by, or associated with, Meta Platforms, Inc.

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About Fifth Third

Fifth Third is a bank that’s as long on innovation as it is on history. Since 1858, we’ve been helping individuals, families, businesses and communities grow through smart financial services that improve lives. Our list of firsts is extensive, and it’s one that continues to expand as we explore the intersection of tech-driven innovation, dedicated people and focused community impact. Fifth Third is one of the few U.S.-based banks to have been named among Ethisphere’s World’s Most Ethical Companies® for several years. With a commitment to taking care of our customers, employees, communities and shareholders, our goal is not only to be the nation’s highest performing regional bank, but to be the bank people most value and trust.

Fifth Third Bank, National Association is a federally chartered institution. Fifth Third Bancorp is the indirect parent company of Fifth Third Bank and its common stock is traded on the NASDAQ® Global Select Market under the symbol “FITB.” Investor information and press releases can be viewed at www.53.com. Deposit and credit products provided by Fifth Third Bank, National Association. Member FDIC.

About Provide

Powered by Fifth Third Bank, Provide is on a mission to financially empower healthcare providers with great people and innovative technology. As the leader in tech-enabled financial services for aspiring and established healthcare practice owners, Provide offers an unmatched combination of industry expertise, personalized service, and customized financial products – enabling providers to achieve their ownership dreams, realize financial independence, and improve the industry’s standard of care. Founded in a one-bedroom San Francisco apartment in 2013, Provide was acquired by Fifth Third in 2021 and in 2023 was named one of Fast Company’s Most Innovative Companies. Learn more at getprovide.com, and join the conversation on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTok.

CONTACT

Amanda Nageleisen (Media Relations)
amanda.nageleisen@53.com

Matt Curoe (Investor Relations)
matt.curoe@53.com | 513-534-2345

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eschbach Named Among Top 15% Globally in EcoVadis Sustainability Ratings

BAD SÄCKINGEN, Germany and BOSTON, Aug. 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — eschbach, a leading provider of enterprise software solutions for the process industry, is proud to announce it has been awarded a Silver Certification by EcoVadis, the global standard for business sustainability ratings. This recognition places eschbach among the top 15% of companies assessed worldwide.

“Quality and sustainability go hand in hand. This level of certification is a testament not only to our sustainable practices but also to the rigorous standards we apply in everything we do,” says Lisa Köpfer, head of quality management for eschbach.

EcoVadis evaluates companies across four key areas: EnvironmentLabor & Human RightsEthics, and Sustainable Procurement. eschbach’s silver rating reflects its holistic approach to sustainability, with strong performance across all categories and industry-leading excellence in environmental responsibility.

“We are incredibly proud of this recognition,” says Andreas Eschbach, CEO of eschbach. “It reflects our deep commitment to sustainability—not just in our internal operations, but in the solutions we provide to our customers.”

eschbach’s flagship product, Shiftconnector®, helps industrial teams collaborate more effectively and safely, driving operational efficiency while supporting environmental goals. The company continues to invest in sustainable practices, ethical governance, and responsible supply chain management.

About eschbach

With its global headquarters in Southern Germany and its North America headquarters in Boston, MA, eschbach is the premier enterprise software developer for pharmaceutical, chemical and other process industry manufacturing. Shiftconnector incorporates AI technology and helps manufacturing teams take charge of facility operations, process safety, asset performance, and production quality. eschbach transforms digital manufacturing operations that helps managers, operators, and technicians to achieve the highest level of team communications. The award-winning solution is trusted worldwide by leading manufacturing companies such as BASF, Roche, and Bayer. For more information, visit www.eschbach.com.

Media Contact – North America
Dawn Fontaine
Ripple Effect Communications
T: 617-536-8887
dawn@rippleeffectpr.com 

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SOURCE eschbach

Blue Shield of California Announces Mission-Driven, Healthcare Leader Mike Stuart as President and Chief Executive Officer

With decades of experience in nonprofit health care, Stuart’s leadership will focus on strengthening Blue Shield’s commitment to high-quality affordable healthcare coverage for all

OAKLAND, Calif., Aug. 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Blue Shield of California today announced Mike Stuart as its new president and chief executive officer. A longtime executive and former chief financial officer of the nonprofit health plan, Stuart brings more than two decades of leadership experience in health care that will further Blue Shield’s mission of providing access to high-quality care that’s sustainably affordable for all.

Mike Stuart is the right leader at the right time for Blue Shield of California,” said Kristina Leslie, chair of the Blue Shield of California board of directors. “He has a deep understanding of our mission, our members and the complex healthcare landscape we operate in. Mike’s financial expertise, collaborative approach and long-standing commitment to the nonprofit values that guide us make him uniquely positioned to lead our organization forward.” 

As chief financial officer since 2022, Stuart has helped guide the organization through some of the most complex challenges the healthcare industry has faced. He has been instrumental in helping to make health care more affordable for Blue Shield’s members, supporting provider partnerships and ensuring financial sustainability of the health plan while staying true to the company’s nonprofit mission.   

“Our industry is facing extraordinary challenges — from rising costs to regulatory shifts and increasing demands for equity and access,” Leslie said. “In this environment, we need a leader who not only understands the complexity of the healthcare system but also has the conviction and capability to drive real, sustainable change. Mike brings exactly that.” 

As president and CEO, Stuart will lead over 6,500 employees who serve 6 million members with health, dental, vision, Medicaid and Medicare health service plans in California and beyond. He is also deeply committed to advancing the organization’s values across teams and partnerships, including recent collaborations to serve over 750,000 active-duty military members and their families, and expand our offerings for CalPERS members.  

“I am honored to lead Blue Shield of California at such a critical moment for our state and industry,” said Stuart. “We have a responsibility as a nonprofit health plan to lead with integrity, partner with purpose and ensure care is both accessible and affordable. I’m proud to work alongside our talented leaders across the Ascendiun family of companies to build a healthcare system that works better for everyone.” 

Stuart’s experience spans finance, operations and systemwide transformation. Prior to joining Blue Shield, he spent 11 years in senior leadership roles at the Daughters of Charity Health System, giving him firsthand knowledge of the challenges providers face and the importance of aligning incentives to improve outcomes and access for patients. He holds an MBA in Finance from Saint Mary’s College of California and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Cal State Chico.  

About Blue Shield of California 

Blue Shield of California strives to create a healthcare system worthy of its family and friends that is sustainably affordable. The health plan is a taxpaying, nonprofit, independent member of the Blue Shield Association with 6 million members, over 6,500 employees and more than $27 billion in annual revenue. Founded in 1939 in San Francisco and now headquartered in Oakland, Blue Shield of California and its affiliates provide health, dental, vision, Medicaid and Medicare healthcare service plans in California. The company has contributed more than $60 million to the Blue Shield of California Foundation in the last three years to have an impact on California communities.  

 For more news about Blue Shield of California, please visit news.blueshieldca.com.  

 Or follow us on LinkedIn or Facebook

CONTACT:

Margeaux Cardona

Blue Shield of California

(510) 607-2359

media@blueshieldca.com

 

 

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SOURCE Blue Shield of California

TriplePundit Launches a New Website With More Ways To Discover Solutions Journalism

With the launch of a brand new website, it’s an exciting moment for TriplePundit, 3BL’s media division. Entering its 20th year, TriplePundit brings solutions journalism to sustainability news — reporting the under-told stories of how business, environmental conservation and social good connect.

Their work is more important now than ever. As the sustainability and social impact space comes under political scrutiny, solutions journalism offers a different and essential perspective.

By elevating and interrogating the evidence-based interventions proven to be effective at addressing problems, solutions journalists not only prove progress is possible, but also create awareness that can help good ideas scale.

As environmental policies shift, funding is cut, and “bad news” about the sustainability and social impact space fills our feeds, solutions journalism isn’t just a welcome alternative. It’s a crucial lifeline for those who still believe in the promise of positive change and are seeking out examples that inspire them to take action.

TriplePundit’s readers surely notice. In audience surveys, more than 80% used positive terms like “informed” and “hopeful” to describe how they feel after reading 3p’s solutions coverage, compared to over half who used negative words like “angry” and “overwhelmed” in association with the news at large.

With the same commitment to inform and empower readers, TriplePundit is welcoming a new look for a new era. Find more ways to discover solutions stories that spark new ways of thinking about sustainability on the new TriplePundit.

About 3BL 
3BL is the leading sustainability and social impact communications partner, connecting organizations’ stories of purpose and progress with the audiences who matter most.

3BL partners with over 1,500 companies – from global corporations and mid-sized enterprises to NGOs and nonprofits – to elevate their reputations as players in the world of responsible business. We do this through unrivaled news and content distribution, bespoke storytelling support, and our digital media division, TriplePundit.

About TriplePundit

TriplePundit covers environmental sustainability and social impact through the lens of solutions journalism. TriplePundit brings visibility to the people and organizations who see and do things differently, with in-depth reporting and analysis.

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Innovation without borders: Empowering Water Tech Changemakers Across the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence

DETROIT, Aug. 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ – AquaAction, an organization that empowers innovators to solve critical water challenges and launch water-tech startups, is announcing the extension of its flagship AquaHacking program binationally for 2026 across the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence region with a goal of attracting 1,000 participants.

This marks a significant milestone in AquaAction’s mission to foster a water-secure future through collaboration and innovation. To bolster cross-border cooperation, AquaAction’s President, Soula Chronopoulos, is proud to unveil today the major co-hosts from both the Great Lakes St. Lawrence Governors & Premiers (GSGP), and the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Cities Initiative (GLSLCI), reinforcing the program’s commitment to regional cooperation and impact.

Chronopoulos made the announcement during the open house for the new Urban Tech Xchange in Detroit, Michigan, where AquaAction will soon officially open their U.S. headquarters.

Now entering its 10th year and 16th edition, the AquaHacking program cultivates the next generation of water tech entrepreneurs through a rigorous 10-month program that provides intensive mentorship, technical guidance, seed funding and other strategic support.

As the world’s largest freshwater basin faces increased pressures from extreme weather, geopolitical turbulence, population growth and pollution, there has never been a more critical time for cross-border innovation on water technologies.

Water issue themes that will be tackled could include:

  • Bridging the water Access Gap in Underserved Communities
  • Drought-resistant crop cultivation and water-smart agricultural practices
  • Water-efficient cooling solutions for data centers
  • Resilient municipal infrastructure
  • Hybrid energy systems with water-saving components
  • Economic Opportunities in the Circular Water Economy
  • Maximizing value from Great Lakes fisheries and aquaculture, including sustainable use of 100% of each fish

Call for Partners

AquaAction is actively seeking post-secondary recruitment hubs and major funding sponsors to support the successful delivery of the 2026 AquaHacking Binational Program. Together, we can empower the next generation of water innovators to build a resilient, water secure future. For partnership inquiries or to learn more about the program, please visit aquaaction.org.

Quotes 

“Water knows no borders and neither should innovation. By uniting talent and resources across the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence region, we’re empowering the next generation to tackle water challenges with bold, scalable solutions,”

  • Soula Chronopoulos, President, AquaAction

“The water tech innovation that AquaAction is sparking with a new generation of entrepreneurs is precisely the kind of catalytic collaboration we first envisioned for the UTX. Our team at Bedrock is thrilled to be working with them to grow an ecosystem of innovators and scale them into successful industry disruptors.”

  • Kevin Mull, Senior Director for the Office of Urban Strategy and Innovation, Bedrock

“Innovation without borders is exactly what our freshwater demands. The Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Cities Initiative is proud to stand alongside AquaAction in advancing solutions that cross geography and jurisdiction. Together, we are building a pipeline from university labs to municipal deployment—ensuring that brilliant ideas don’t remain prototypes but become real tools that communities can implement. This is about more than technology; it’s about ensuring residents have safe, affordable water, infrastructure that can withstand the stress of higher temperatures and more frequent storms, and opportunities to participate in a growing economy that is rooted in sustainable solutions.”

  • Jonathan Altenberg, President and CEO, the Great Lakes Saint Lawrence Cities Initiative

“The Great Lakes St. Lawrence Governors and Premiers are committed to innovating to strengthen our region. AquaHacking offers a unique platform for young entrepreneurs and problem-solvers to address some of our real-world challenges. We look forward to working together to bring new ideas for improving our fisheries and addressing other water-related opportunities.”

  • David Naftzger, Executive Director, Great Lakes St. Lawrence Governors & Premiers

“When expertise meets innovation, we become trusted partners for those who value water, working together to bring this vital resource to life. Together with AquaAction’s 2026 AquaHacking program, we’re empowering the next wave of changemakers to protect, preserve, and revolutionize the future of water.”

  • Pierre-Marc Sarrazin, Vice-President, Ovivo

Quick Links

Quick Facts 

  • AquaAction’s Impact since 2016: 
    • 100+ water tech companies 
    • $200M+ in annual revenues 
    • $65M+ capital raised 
    • 400+ green jobs created 
    • Over 3,000 participants engaged
    • Over 95B litres (25B gallons) of water saved and the equivalent of over 85,000 trees in carbon avoided
  • The Great Lakes and St. Lawrence region is home to 110 million people. It contains 21% of the world’s and 95% of North America’s surface fresh water supply and has a ground water supply the volume of Lake Michigan.
  • The region accounts for more than 50% of all U.S./Canadian bilateral border trade and sees over 200 million tons of cargo shipped annually. If it were its own country, it would have a GDP of US$8 trillion, making it the third biggest economy in the world.
  • The 2026 AquaHacking Binational Great Lakes and St. Lawrence program builds on the success of AquaAction’s first-ever binational Great Lakes AquaHacking program with Northwestern Michigan College in 2023-20234 which brought together over 200 water tech innovators from across the U.S. and Canada.
  • The Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Basin faces mounting threats:
    • Toxic PFAS contamination continues to infiltrate waterways, outpacing current filtration systems and raising alarms about long-term health effects.
    • Nutrient runoff, in the form of phosphorus from agriculture and urban areas, is fueling harmful algal blooms that degrade water quality and damage aquatic ecosystems, most notably in Lake Erie.
    • The spread of invasive species is destabilizing food production systems and threatening biodiversity across multiple lakes.
    • Extreme weather is disrupting precipitation patterns, intensifying lake-level fluctuations, increasing shoreline erosion, and stressing aging infrastructure.
    • Urban and industrial expansion contributes to chemical runoff and challenges cities already struggling to modernize outdated wastewater systems.

About AquaAction

AquaAction is a charity registered in both the United States and Canada that is building a water-secure future through innovation, education, and collaboration. We support aspiring and experienced entrepreneurs to launch and scale water technology solutions to tackle the increasing economic, environmental and water security challenges we face. AquaAction works across sectors connecting innovators, policymakers, communities, and industries to empower the next generation of water stewards. We are a growing community of changemakers who are building the freshwater economy, one solution at a time.

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SOURCE AquaAction

With $400,000 KeyBank Gift, Hartford Promise Guides Area Students From High School to Career

A $400,000 gift from KeyBank Foundation to Hartford Promise will help support Hartford public school students find success from high school to college to career.

Research shows 73% of college graduates who start their careers underemployed remain underemployed a decade later. This issue is especially critical for Promise Scholars—all Hartford Public School graduates—many of whom face limited access to the professional networks, internships and career experiences that lead to strong job outcomes.

The expansion of Hartford Promise’s College to Career Pipeline, made possible by KeyBank’s gift, addresses this by integrating intensive, early career development into a successful cohort coaching model. Highlights include:

  • Financial resources, in the form of college scholarships.
  • Coaching services, ranging from college applications to financial aid planning, academic mentoring and career support.
  • Networking, to establish meaningful relationships that promote stronger job placement after college and better internships during college.

KeyBank’s gift will allow the College to Career Pipeline to support an average of 500 students annually, beginning with the incoming class of 2025.

“KeyBank is celebrating our bicentennial and foundational commitment to support organizations and programs that prepare individuals for thriving futures,” said Matt Hummel, Connecticut Market President, KeyBank. “Hartford Promise’s College to Career Pipeline does just this. It is a transformative workforce development program that changes lives and aligns perfectly with our philanthropic priorities of neighbors, education and workforce.”

“Over 70 percent of Hartford Promise Scholars are first-generation students, often navigating higher-ed and career planning without the advantages others may take for granted. Coaching is at the heart of our model and is critical to ensuring their success. With KeyBank’s support, we are able to expand this individualized coaching, strengthen our programming, and provide the guidance Scholars need to persist through college, graduate, and launch meaningful careers. This investment directly helps break the cycle of intergenerational poverty and build lasting generational wealth,” said Hartford Promise President Sivan Hines.

To become a Hartford Promise Scholar students must:

  • Attend a Hartford public high school continuously since 9th grade
  • Be a Hartford resident throughout high school
  • Have a 93% or better cumulative attendance record during high school
  • Have a 3.0 cumulative GPA or better on a 4.0 scale in high school.

For more information, visit the Hartford Promise website at hartfordpromise.org or call 860-956-5310.

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Stepping Stones Inc., To Provide Special Screening of Award-Winning Documentary – GENERATION GROWTH – www.generationgrowthfilm.com – Courtesy of Quest Diagnostics.

COME MEET CAST & CREW – This is a FREE EVENT, open to the public and media, complete with Live Q/A, Step and Repeat, and photo opportunities.

When: Wednesday, August 27 @ 1 PM

Where: West Edge Factory
1040 Vernon St Suite 1
Huntington, WV 25704

Who and What:

As part of its Youth Transition Project (YTP), Stepping Stones, Inc. – a premier Child Welfare Agency – will provide a special screening of the award-winning documentary Generation Growthwww.generationgrowthfilm.com – a powerful documentary featuring internationally acclaimed educator and Green Bronx Machine founder Stephen Ritz on Wednesday, August 26, 2025, at 1 PM. This screening is courtesy of Quest Diagnostics. ✨ Stepping Stones, Inc., in Wayne County — a provider of residential treatment and independent living for foster youth — is featured prominently in this film. Learn how our journey into growing hope with the power of a plant began!

COME MEET CAST & CREW – This is a FREE EVENT, open to the public and media, complete with Live Q/A, Step and Repeat, and photo opportunities.

Film Synopsis: Poor health, diet-related diseases, food insecurity, and underperforming education continue to plague low-income and marginalized communities across the United States. Stephen Ritz, a Bronx educator who believes teachers change lives, is on a mission to change all that. He developed an incredibly successful whole-school curriculum, aligned to a data-driven indoor academic gardening program that allows children to grow vegetables in school, improving academic performance, changing eating habits, increasing classroom engagement, and providing pathways for 21st century employment. “Generation Growth” follows Ritz as he expands his low-cost, easily replicable program throughout the country, bringing passion, purpose, and hope to the communities, students, and teachers who need it most.

Says Susan Fry, Executive Director of Stepping Stones, Inc.: “To think, eight years later, that we are hosting a live screening here in Huntington, is proof positive that we are growing something greater. In partnership with Green Bronx Machine and Newman’s Own Foundation, we have gone from seed to harvest, with one of the most innovative and successful approaches in the history of residential care in all of Appalachia, including the first successful commercial greenhouse maintained by foster-care children in America along the construction of a tiny home eco-village for graduates, and we are just getting started. We are so grateful to Quest Diagnostics for bringing our story to the forefront of national attention and so excited to host Green Bronx Machine and to continue to take this work to a whole new level.”

Adds Stephen Ritz: “We are excited to get back to our roots, right here in Appalachia, where passion, purpose, hope, committed people, and vision are the special ingredients that help change outcomes for young people in ways that benefit all. This film and this moment represent an affirmation and celebration that the greatest resource in the world is the untapped potential residing in marginalized communities across our nation. Eight years ago, nobody thought this was possible, nobody thought this could work, yet here we are, with some of the most cost-effective and irrefutable data and impact ever. What started off as “impossible” has grown into a movement of “I’m possible” and the best is yet to come.”

Ritz goes on to add: “To be very clear, we are here to celebrate AND to grow something greater – to continue to ideate, iterate, and plan – we are determined to continue to change lives for the better, to change narratives, and to create new paradigms and solutions together. This film and this moment are not about giving people fish nor about teaching people to fish, it’s about collectively creating new oceans and sustainable ecosystems that nurture all of us.” Ritz goes on to express his appreciation by stating: “We are forever grateful to the folks at Newman’s Own Foundation, for seeing us, hearing us, believing in us, trusting us, supporting us, guiding us, and for helping us to facilitate our own replicable and virtuous solution – thanks to Newman’s Own Foundation, these children, and children to come, have a forever place, space, and home. We come together today with bold ideas, determined and ever mindful that we can and we will forever pay this forward. We are the folks we are waiting for! I also want to thank Quest Diagnostics for funding the distribution of our film Generation Growth, for helping us build out a website with incredible resources – www.generationgrowthfilm.com – forever empowering and enabling us and others to share our stories of success – a place where often-forgotten children from the South Bronx, Appalachia, and similar communities can become the power of example and shining lights for the world, validating that our lives matter and deserve happy endings!”

This is more than a film — it’s a movement. Come see how healthy food, education, and community can transform lives. Bring a friend and be part of this conversation of hope, healing, and growth. Generation Growth is a compelling documentary showcasing Ritz’s journey as a Bronx educator tackling food insecurity, poor health and education challenges across the country. Learn how together, we will continue to change lives for the better and HOW YOU CAN GET INVOLVED

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:

Susan Fry – Executive Director

Stepping Stones, Inc.
Stepupsusan@gmail.com
1.304.634.1982

About Stepping Stones, Inc.:

Established in 1975, Stepping Stones, Inc. is a fully licensed child welfare and behavioral health provider with fifty years’ experience in working with West Virginia’s foster youth and their families. The therapeutic milieu is family centered, and youth focused and provides youth with an opportunity to enhance cognitive competence, internalize coping skills and develop an “I Can” attitude. Through restructuring, reeducation and reintegration, Stepping Stones, Inc., seeks to strengthen the youth’s relationship with family and community. The Program passionately believes that discovering and uncovering the connectedness of the youth and his family with the community is paramount in treatment delivery. To date, Stepping Stones has generated some of the most successful outcomes in foster care treatment and been at the national forefront of child-focused, innovative, therapeutic, and healing therapeutic approaches, interventions, and treatment. For more information, visit https://steppingstonesinc.org.

About Green Bronx Machine:

Green Bronx Machine is an award-winning, nationally acclaimed non-profit that builds healthy, equitable, and resilient communities through inspired education, local food systems, and 21st Century workforce development. Dedicated to cultivating minds and harvesting hope, their school-based

model incorporates urban agriculture and Tower Garden technology supported by their whole-school curriculum aligned to key school performance indicators to grow high performing schools and happy, healthy children. Green Bronx Machine transforms once marginalized communities into neighborhoods that are inclusive and thriving. For more information, visit www.greenbronxmachine.org.

Reaching over 1,000 schools nationally and serving over 325,000 students daily, Green Bronx Machine was named a 2024 Fast Company Most Innovative Company and also offers an online educational platform, complete with instructional videos, free lesson plans, downloadable teacher resources, and an educational YouTube Channel: Green Bronx Machine KIDS! Learn more at www.greenbronxmachine.org/resources.

The organization is presently featured in an award-winning documentary, Generation Growth, which highlights their expansion and success in communities across the nation. Individuals or groups interested in hosting a “Generation Growth” in-person or virtual screening or learning about additional ways to partner with Green Bronx Machine’s mission can contact Stephen Ritz at stephen.ritz@greenbronxmachine.org or 917.873.6449.

#documentary #schoolgarden #fostercare #leadership #pedagogy #education #health #wellness #nutrition #Appalachia #WestVirginia #recovery #Huntington #community #towergarden #greenbronxmachine #stephenritz #bronx #nyc

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Light After the Storm: 20 Years Strong

This year marks the 20th anniversary of hurricanes Katrina and Rita. Katrina, one of the worst, deadliest and most costly natural disasters to ever hit our service area, slammed into the Gulf Coast on Aug. 29, 2005. Much of the Gulf Coast lay ravaged by wind and water, and New Orleans was largely submerged.

Twenty-six days after Katrina, with the state of Louisiana still reeling, Hurricane Rita made landfall near the mouth of the Sabine River at the Louisiana-Texas border. These storms left 1.9 million of our 2.7 million customers without power, with Katrina affecting 37,000 square miles, roughly one-third of our service area.

For the last 20 years following hurricanes Katrina and Rita, we’ve powered a more resilient future and remained steadfast in our commitment to you — our customers and communities. We’re stronger today because of where we’ve been. And we’ll continue to invest in our shared communities, our people and our grid. We couldn’t be prouder to call this home.

Honoring the 20-year anniversary through service

Over the last two decades, our employees have dedicated 1.6 million hours of volunteer service across our four-state service area.

In remembrance of the 2005 hurricane season, Entergy is holding a day of service on Aug. 29 in partnership with Rebuilding Together. Employee volunteers will focus on home repairs and energy efficiency upgrades to five homes in the New Orleans area. This initiative not only honors our commitment to the community but also revitalizes homes that represent the heart of our neighborhoods.

This week, our New Orleans-area employees will also join Green Light New Orleans to commemorate the anniversary. Volunteers will be delivering and installing approximately 20 rain barrels to local homeowners in flood-prone neighborhoods.

Watch Episode 1 (above): During the storm

In the month ahead, we’ll share some of these stories of reflection, resilience, preparation and perseverance through a series of videos. Watch our first video release that captures Entergy team members recounting their experiences from 2005.

Find more at entergy.com/Katrina20.

About Entergy

Entergy produces, transmits and distributes electricity to power life for 3 million customers through our operating companies in Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas. We’re investing for growth and improved reliability and resilience of our energy system while working to keep energy rates affordable for our customers. We’re also investing in cleaner energy generation like modern natural gas, nuclear and renewable energy. A nationally recognized leader in sustainability and corporate citizenship, we deliver more than $100 million in economic benefits each year to the communities we serve through philanthropy, volunteerism and advocacy. Entergy is a Fortune 500 company headquartered in New Orleans, Louisiana, and has approximately 12,000 employees. Learn more at entergy.com and follow @Entergy on social media.

Corporate Social Responsibility at Entergy

For more than 100 years, Entergy has powered life in our communities through strategic philanthropy, volunteerism and advocacy. Entergy’s corporate social responsibility initiatives help create and sustain thriving communities, position the company for sustainable growth and are aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Our top CSR priorities are education/workforce development, poverty solutions/social services and environmental programs. Entergy annually contributes $16-$18 million in shareholder-funded grants to approximately 2,000 nonprofit organizations in the communities where we operate. In addition, our employees volunteer more than 100,000 hours in those communities’ values at more than $3 million.

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Chicagoland New-Car Dealers Raise More Than $70,000 for the USO in the 12th Annual Drive for the Troops Fundraiser

CHICAGO, Aug. 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Chicago Automobile Trade Association (CATA), in partnership with the USO, has concluded the 12th annual Drive for the Troops campaign, a month-long fundraiser that raised more than $70,000 in support of local military service members and their families.

Throughout the month of July, more than 80 new-car dealerships across the Chicagoland area came together to host community-focused fundraising events and activities. From car shows to classic summer barbecues to online fundraising activities, the campaign ignited strong community engagement and underscored the vital role of the USO in supporting those who serve.

“Drive for the Troops continues to be a shining example of how our local dealerships step up, not just as businesses, but as dedicated community leaders,” said CATA Chairman Ryan Kelly. “This year’s campaign was another powerful reminder that our communities are eager to rally around our service members, and we are proud to once again support the USO’s mission.”

Dealerships participated in a variety of ways, including hosting onsite events and contributing donations for every test drive taken throughout July. In total, this year’s fundraising brings the program’s lifetime contribution to more than $1.2 million, raised through nearly 800 dealership-led events since its inception.

“The impact of Drive for the Troops is profound, and the USO is incredibly grateful for the continued support from the CATA and Chicagoland’s new-car dealers,” said USO Executive Director, Christopher Schmidt. “These funds help ensure that we can continue offering hundreds of vital programs, services and moments of connection for service members and their families.”

The program culminated this week where CATA board members presented a check to the USO for a total of $72,047.

“Lastly, we must thank our incredible media partners who played a key role in amplifying the message, increasing awareness, and driving community participation throughout the campaign,” said Kelly.

For more information on the CATA, visit www.cata.info. For more information on the USO, please visit USO.org.

About the Chicago Automobile Trade Association
Founded in 1904, the Chicago Automobile Trade Association is one of the nation’s largest metropolitan dealer organizations. It is comprised of more than 420 franchised new-car dealers and an additional 150 allied members. The group’s dealer members employ about 19,000 people in the metropolitan area. The association has produced the world-famous Chicago Auto Show since 1935. For more information please visit www.CATA.info.

About USO
The USO is the leading nonprofit dedicated to strengthening the well-being of the people serving in America’s military and their families. Since 1941, the USO has been by the side of service members throughout their military service. Impactful support is provided through our 250+ locations around the world, a robust care package delivery program, global entertainment, military spouse and youth programming, and much more, all made possible by donors, corporate partners, volunteers and staff. To learn more and support our critical mission around the globe, please visit USO.org or follow us on Facebook, Twitter/X, Instagram and LinkedIn. 

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SOURCE Chicago Automobile Trade Association