January 2026 – Page 93

ClarkDietrich launches industry-first embodied carbon calculator for steel framing

Posted on January 8, 2026 by sHq_LoGiNz

WEST CHESTER, Ohio, Jan. 8, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — ClarkDietrich, North America’s largest manufacturer of cold-formed steel framing and accessories, has launched a new digital tool to quickly estimate the embodied carbon of structural and non-structural steel-framed walls. The Embodied Carbon Calculator (ECC), available for free on ClarkDietrich’s website, helps architects, specifiers and contractors understand the carbon impact of their steel framing choices and evaluate options such as standard versus low embodied carbon (LEC) steel to support lower-impact building designs.

“When we launched our line of LEC steel framing last year, we heard from building teams across the country who were excited to be able to better meet their projects’ carbon reduction goals. With this calculator, it’s now easier and more accessible than ever for sustainability-focused teams to quickly evaluate those reduction goals against the types of framing available (LEC vs. standard), and make purchasing decisions based on third-party certified EPD data,” said Adam Shoemaker, business development director for ClarkDietrich.

Users enter wall dimensions and framing details (stud spacing, size, bracing, track and more) to calculate total steel weight, and the calculator instantly converts the weight into embodied carbon (Global Warming Potential, GWP) and shows the embodied carbon reductions between standard framing and LEC framing, measured in kilograms CO₂e per metric ton of steel and in percent savings.

The tool also provides comparative facts to help contextualize the carbon savings. For instance, 100,000 kg of CO₂e is the equivalent of over 11,000 gallons of gasoline used. These equivalency statistics, leveraging data from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, help architects and building owners share the impact of their green building solutions in a way that relates to everyday life.

The Embodied Carbon Calculator is part of ClarkDietrich’s comprehensive iTools program. Visit itools.clarkdietrich.com to start calculating your reduction in embodied carbon.

About ClarkDietrich^®
ClarkDietrich^® is the leading manufacturer of a full line of drywall studs and accessories, structural studs and joists, metal lath and accessories, shaft wall studs and track, interior and exterior finishing products, and connectors and accessories for commercial and residential construction. Quality manufacturing, a full-line offering, national distribution, engineering services and responsive customer service position ClarkDietrich as the largest manufacturer of cold-formed steel framing in North America. Clarkwestern Dietrich Building Systems is a 75/25 joint venture with Marubeni-Itochu Steel America Inc. (MISA) and Worthington Enterprises, Inc. For more information, visit www.clarkdietrich.com.

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SOURCE ClarkDietrich

‘Design for All’ Showcased at CES 2026

Posted on January 8, 2026 by sHq_LoGiNz

LAS VEGAS, January 8, 2026 /3BL/ – Spotlighting its commitment to inclusive innovation, LG Electronics USA has expanded the LG Comfort Kit family of accessories developed to deliver a better, more intuitive appliance experience for everyone. These accessible technologies are featured in LG’s “Design for All” exhibition at CES^® 2026 where the company is demonstrating how thoughtful, human-centered design can help overcome everyday barriers.

Design for All, a key initiative under LG’s “Better Life for All” global ESG vision, reflects the company’s belief that technology should be intuitive, approachable and accessible to people of all ages and abilities. Through inclusive product design, services and communication, LG is expanding access to technology while keeping real customer experiences at the center of innovation, according to John I. Taylor, senior vice president, LG Electronics USA.

“At LG, inclusive design is not about adding special features for a select group; it’s about rethinking how products fit naturally into everyday life,” said Taylor. “Design for All represents a long-term commitment to creating technology that works better for everyone — from people with disabilities to seniors, children and families — because when design is inclusive, the experience improves for all.”

Expanding the LG Comfort Kit

At CES, LG unveiled eight new LG Comfort Kit items, further expanding its inclusive design ecosystem across home appliances. Newly introduced solutions include the LG Washer Easy Detergent Cup, LG Dishwasher Door Easy Handle, LG Water Purifier Easy Tray, and LG Microwave Touch Guide, all designed to reduce effort at key moments of appliance use.

Additional Comfort Kit items on display at CES include the LG Vacuum Cleaner Easy Handle, LG Refrigerator Container Easy Lid, LG Air Purifier Easy Guide, and LG Dehumidifier Easy Handle, with several scheduled to launch in the first quarter of this year.

Inclusive Design in Action at CES

The Design for All zone in LG’s CES booth features core dimensions of accessibility, inspired by real consumer needs and real-world use cases. For consumers who are blind or have low vision, LG offers Comfort Kit items designed to improve visibility, recognition and safe use of home appliances.

One example includes a color sticker for LG’s robot vacuum, helping low-vision customers more easily recognize the device and reducing the risk of tripping at home. Other solutions incorporate tactile indicators, high-contrast elements and Braille-supported touch guides that promote confident and independent use.

For consumers who experience mobility challenges, Comfort Kit items reduce the physical effort required to grip, open, close or move appliances. For instance, Easy Handles for LG washers and dryers allow users to open doors using their arm instead of their hand, supporting greater independence and comfort for customers with limited hand mobility or reach.

Design for All Beyond Products

LG’s Design for All initiative extends beyond physical products to include accessible services and communication. LG offers sign language services for customers who are deaf or hard of hearing, Braille stickers for key product touchpoints, and web-based product manuals built with accessibility in mind, supporting a more seamless and inclusive customer journey.

By embedding accessibility into design, communication and service, LG aims to remove barriers that impact daily life and help more people experience technology with comfort and confidence, Taylor explained.

“At the heart of Design for All is a simple but powerful purpose,” he added. “We want to help people live independently and comfortably in their own way — whether they’re managing a disability, aging in place, raising a family or simply looking for products that are easier to use. This is how inclusive design becomes meaningful, scalable and sustainable.”

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About LG Electronics USA

LG Electronics USA Inc., based in Englewood Cliffs, N.J., is the North American subsidiary of LG Electronics Inc., a smart life solutions company with annual global revenues of more than $60 billion. In the United States, LG sells a wide range of innovative home appliances, home entertainment products, commercial displays, air conditioning systems and vehicle components. LG is an 11-time ENERGY STAR^® Partner of the Year. www.LG.com

Media Contact:

LG Electronics USA

Kimberly Regillio
kim.regillio@lge.com
+1 815 355 0509

Gulf Coast Bird Observatory Celebrates Energy Savings, Thanks to a $135,000 Green Mountain Energy Sun Club Sustainability Grant

Posted on January 8, 2026 by sHq_LoGiNz

LAKE JACKSON, Texas, January 8, 2026 /3BL/ – Gulf Coast Bird Observatory (GCBO), a nonprofit founded to protect birds and their habitats around the Gulf and beyond, is celebrating a major sustainability milestone with a 29.52 kWh rooftop solar array system and a Kia EV6 Light Long Range vehicle, courtesy of a $135,000 grant from the Green Mountain Energy Sun Club®.

The new solar array system and electric vehicle will offset 65% of GCBO’s energy needs, saving nearly $15,000 in overhead costs each year and equivalent to more than 5,000 hours of scientific bird monitoring.

Founded in 1997, the mission of GCBO is to protect birds and their habitats with a vision of healthy ecosystems with abundant space for birds to survive and thrive around the Gulf and beyond. Internationally recognized for research in the United States, Central America, and South America, GCBO conducts significant conservation projects such as habitat enhancement, conservation land protection and acquisition, plastic mitigation efforts, education and outreach efforts, and more. Locally, 200,000 people are reached annually through their management of two bird sanctuaries in Brazoria County, plus their headquarters that sits on a 34-acre bottomland forest along Buffalo Camp Bayou. GCBO also engages their community through monthly bird banding, the Xtreme Hummingbird Xtravaganza, Online Bird School and their YouTube channel.

“GCBO is very excited and truly grateful to Green Mountain Energy Sun Club for choosing us as a solar grant recipient,” said Martin Hagne, executive director at Gulf Coast Bird Observatory. “Being a conservation organization that cares about natural habitats, it made perfect sense for us to add solar on top of an already-existing structure to harness power from the sun and an electric vehicle for us to reach more people using less resources. It’s a win-win project!”

“Green Mountain Energy is thrilled to join forces with Gulf Coast Bird Observatory to offset their energy needs and help expand their efforts to protect birds and their habitats,” said Andrea Ortega-Toledano, senior director of sustainability, Green Mountain Energy. “We recognize the important work that GCBO is doing to protect birds and their habitats, and we are excited to play a role in making their impact even greater.”

Green Mountain Energy’s mission is to inspire hope and motivate action through the use of clean energy, and to advance sustainable communities through Sun Club. Since its founding in 2002, Sun Club has donated more than $16 million for 174 projects across Texas and the Northeast. Green Mountain Energy invites its customers and employees to contribute and help support more projects that promote renewable energy, energy efficiency, resource conservation, and environmental stewardship.

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About Green Mountain Energy Sun Club

Green Mountain Energy’s mission is to inspire hope and motivate action through the use of clean energy, and to advance sustainable communities through the work of Green Mountain Energy Sun Club. Since its founding in 2002, Sun Club has donated more than $16 million for 174 projects across Texas and the Northeast. Sun Club collaborates with nonprofit organizations on projects that focus on renewable energy, energy efficiency, resource conservation, and environmental stewardship. To learn more about Green Mountain Energy and Sun Club or to apply for a Sun Club grant, visit greenmountain.com/sunclub.

About Gulf Coast Bird Observatory

Gulf Coast Bird Observatory is an independent non-profit organization with 501(c) status. We have become recognized as an innovative organization, which has designed and conducted a significant number of large conservation projects, including migration studies, habitat enhancement, land acquisition, regional habitat mapping, and others. Our vision is a healthy ecosystem with abundant space for birds to survive and thrive around the Gulf and beyond.

Media Contact:

Jeanie Davey, Green Mountain Energy
445-544-1670
Jeanie.davey@greenmountain.com

Updated IOC Report Shows 86 per Cent of All Permanent Olympic Venues Still in Use

Posted on January 8, 2026 by sHq_LoGiNz

International Olympic Committee news

An updated analysis of venues shows that 86 per cent of all permanent venues used at the Olympic Games since Athens 1896, and 94 per cent of those from the 21^st century, are still in use today. Building on the original 2022 report, the updated study now includes venues from Tokyo 2020 and Beijing 2022, highlighting how the Games continue to deliver lasting benefits for their host communities.

Released today at the Olympic Legacy Forum in PyeongChang, Republic of Korea, the updated “Over 125 years of Olympic venues: post-Games use” report examines 982 venues that have hosted medal events, opening and closing ceremonies, and Olympic villages across 53 editions of the Games, from Athens 1896 to Beijing 2022.

The use of Olympic venues is multi-purpose, from sports activities such as training and competition to non-sport uses including culture, leisure, community and business.

“We’re proud to confirm that 86 per cent of Olympic venues remain in use today — a clear proof of the Games’ long-term legacy,” said IOC Olympic Games Executive Director Christophe Dubi. “The results speak for themselves: recent editions are creating stronger, more sustainable legacies for host cities and their communities, and we hope that each new edition will continue to build on this.”

“By studying how past Olympic venues are used after the Games, we’ve identified strategies to maximise their long-term value,” said IOC Sustainability Director Marie Sallois. “Year-round, multi-purpose use keeps facilities active and relevant. By prioritising existing or temporary venues and building only when there’s a clear, long-term need, host cities can align the Games with their development goals.”

Spotlight on two new Games editions100 per cent of all permanent venues from Tokyo 2020 and Beijing 2022 still in use

All 33 permanent venues from Tokyo 2020 are still in use, including five venues from the 1964 Games such as Yoyogi National Stadium and the Equestrian Park. Each venue has an operator and a legacy plan, hosting events for local communities and elite athletes, from fitness and taster sessions to international competitions.
All 16 permanent venues from the Beijing 2022 Games — including 12 competition venues, four of which were originally built for Beijing 2008 and later repurposed for ice sports — continue to operate. Multi-purpose and active all year-round, they host sporting, cultural and recreational activities, support elite athletes, and serve local communities.

Other key findings

Eighty-seven per cent of complex venues (Olympic stadiums, Olympic villages, swimming pools, velodromes, ski jumping hills, sliding centres and ice hockey stadiums) are still in use.
Permanent venues, whether newly built or existing, remain in use at similar rates.
The proportion of temporary venues has increased in the 21^st century to avoid building permanent structures when there is no long-term need.

Maximising long-term benefits for the hosts

In line with the IOC’s Olympic Agenda, the Games aim to adapt to the host territories and help accelerate their long-term development plans while minimising their footprint. Paris 2024 used 95 per cent existing or temporary venues, which allowed the organisers to cut their carbon footprint in half compared to London 2012 and Rio 2016. Milano Cortina 2026 will spread events across existing sites, minimising new construction while building on Italy’s expertise in hosting world-class competitions; while Los Angeles 2028 will stage the Games without building a single new permanent venue, embracing a “radical reuse” approach that maximises efficiency and sustainability.

Download the full report here.

Download the executive summary here.

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The International Olympic Committee is a not-for-profit, civil, non-governmental, international organisation made up of volunteers which is committed to building a better world through sport. It redistributes more than 90 per cent of its income to the wider sporting movement, which means that every day the equivalent of USD 4.7 million goes to help athletes and sports organisations at all levels around the world.

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For more information, please contact the IOC Media Relations Team:
Tel: +41 21 621 6000, email: pressoffice@olympic.org, or visit our web site at www.ioc.org.

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The IOC Newsroom: https://newsroom.olympics.com/

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PINK FUND KICKS OFF 20TH ANNIVERSARY WITH HISTORIC ESTATE GIFT

Posted on January 8, 2026 by sHq_LoGiNz

Pink Fund marks its 20^th anniversary with a $1-million estate gift and plans for a year-long anniversary celebration.

BINGHAM FARMS, Mich., Jan. 8, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Pink Fund, a national nonprofit providing financial assistance to breast cancer patients in active treatment, proudly announced the start of its 20^th anniversary with a transformational $1 million estate gift from the Helen “Misty” Tyree Trust. The gift brings Pink Fund’s endowment balance to over $1 million for the first time in organization history.

Co-founded in 2006 by breast cancer survivor Molly MacDonald and her husband Tom Pettit, Pink Fund helps patients meet critical expenses for housing, transportation, utilities, and insurance premiums, allowing them to focus on healing rather than financial strain. Over the past two decades, Pink Fund has distributed more than $10 million in financial support to patients nationwide.

“This extraordinary estate gift from the Helen ‘Misty’ Tyree Trust marks a historic moment for Pink Fund,” said Molly MacDonald, co-founder and CEO. “Surpassing a $1 million endowment ensures long‑term sustainability and strengthens our ability to support patients for generations to come. As we celebrate 20 years and surpass $10 million distributed, we’re inviting our supporters, donors, and partners to be part of our next 20 in a more meaningful way. The need for financial support among patients is growing faster than ever, and every contribution helps sustain our mission and ensures that no patient has to choose between paying for treatment and keeping a roof over their head.”

The 20th anniversary will also be marked with a commemorative logo symbolizing both two decades of tangible assistance for breast cancer patients and the invaluable support from partners, donors and volunteers. It will be used throughout 2026 in all Pink Fund marketing and branding.

Throughout 2026, Pink Fund will commemorate its 20th anniversary with special events, storytelling campaigns, and opportunities for donors, partners, and survivors to reflect on two decades of impact and help shape the organization’s next chapter.

Those interested in partnering with Pink Fund or learning how to support its mission through giving, volunteering, or corporate engagement, are encouraged to contact tracey@thepinkfund.org.

To learn more about Pink Fund’s impact, endowment growth, and upcoming anniversary activities, visit www.pinkfund.org, subscribe to the monthly newsletter, or follow Pink Fund on social media at @ThePinkFund.

ABOUT PINK FUND
Pink Fund is a 501c3 non-profit organization that provides education and financial support to help meet basic needs, decrease stress levels, and allow breast cancer patients in active treatment to focus on healing while improving survivorship outcomes. Founded in 2006, Pink Fund has provided more than $10 million in financial relief to breast cancer survivors. Give help or get help at PinkFund.org.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/pink-fund-kicks-off-20th-anniversary-with-historic-estate-gift-302656777.html

SOURCE Pink Fund

CSR Talent Group: You’re Not Alone – Support for Impact Leaders in 2026

Posted on January 8, 2026 by sHq_LoGiNz

It can be lonely to be an impact professional in these times. 2025 was a long and difficult rollercoaster of a year for many in the CSR, ESG, and Sustainability fields.

For those individuals fortunate enough to still be employed, you’re facing unprecedented challenges with budgets and staffing being reduced, yet still being asked to produce significant impacts, while revamping your communications approach to limit external scrutiny. On a brighter note, it’s encouraging to see how companies and organizations are adapting to this new reality.

As we welcome 2026, here’s how we’ve been told we stand out in these challenging times:

Limited Budgets – We work with you, at no cost, to develop an approach that recognizes your budget limitations.
Limited Staffing – We offer a flexible team framework, combining fractional and part-time experts with a few full-time staff to address a range of programmatic and administrative needs.
Need for Experts – We have advisors and experts available for any specialized need, from employee engagement to impact reporting, business alignment, and stakeholder communication; our talent network is comprised of senior-level experts with both deep corporate and consulting experience.

We are here to be your guide, including a bridge to others facing similar challenges. Our partnership with organizations like ACCP helps to provide support, resources, and most importantly, a haven for individuals seeking connection.

As the landscape continues to evolve, take comfort that CSR Talent Group is built to support you.

—Tom Knowlton, CEO, CSR Talent Group

TASTE OF THE NFL BRINGS SUPER BOWL LX’S ULTIMATE CULINARY EXPERIENCE TO SAN FRANCISCO TO RALLY SUPPORT TO END STUDENT HUNGER

Posted on January 8, 2026 by sHq_LoGiNz

Celebrity Chefs, Bay Area Culinary Stars, NFL Greats, and Presenting Sponsor PepsiCo Team Up for GENYOUth’s Mission to Tackle Youth Food Insecurity

NEW YORK, Jan. 8, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Get ready for an unforgettable culinary and gridiron adventure that scores big for students in need! Taste of the NFL returns to the Bay Area with an extraordinary fusion of world-class cuisine, gridiron greats, and purposeful giving – all dedicated to GENYOUth’s critical work to help end student hunger and foster nutrition security nationwide.

Presented by PepsiCo, this landmark event transforms Super Bowl LX Weekend into an opportunity for impact. Food and football fans are invited to join Taste of the NFL on February 7, 2026, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. PST at The Hibernia in San Francisco for an evening where every bite fuels a brighter future for children across America. Tickets are available now at www.TasteoftheNFL.com or via Ticketmaster.

San Francisco’s reputation as a global food capital takes center stage as Taste of the NFL showcases the region’s extraordinary culinary diversity. Event hosts Chefs Andrew Zimmern, Carla Hall, Lasheeda Perry, Mark Bucher, and Sayat and Laura Ozyilmaz – along with special guest chefs Cat Cora and Tyler Florence – lead a powerhouse roster of over 20 acclaimed national and local chefs whose artistry has defined dining in the Bay Area and across the country. Featured restaurants include Abacá, Al Pastor Papi, Café Sebastian, Cocobreeze, Dalida, Doppio Zero, Eylan, Maria Isabel, Meski, Miller & Lux, Minnie Bell’s Soul Movement, Nopa, Parche, Shoji, 7 Adams, Reem’s California, Señor Sisig, Stateline Road Smokehouse, Tarts de Feybesse, and Willi’s Seafood. The Sonoma County Winegrowers will uncork the locally sourced flavors of nearby wine country, offering curated tastings and expert pairings that showcase the region’s world-class vintages.

PepsiCo brings additional culinary firepower with Chef Steven Dominguez, Associate Research Chef and Culinary Lead, and Chef Wiley E. Bates III, PepsiCo Culinary Senior Principal Scientist, alongside celebrated talents including Chef Eric Adjepong – the Ghanaian-American culinary trailblazer and PepsiCo Foods Culinary Advisory Board member known for championing West African cuisine’s profound influence on American food culture.

Showcasing the distinct flavors and vibrant diversity of the Bay Area’s own culinary community, Chef Antonio Inguscio of Doppio Zero, and Chef Miguel Escobedo of Al Pastor Papi, as well as Founder/CEO Evan Kidera and Gil Payumo of Señor Sisig, will each present their signature dishes. In addition to the PepsiCo Foundation’s support for GENYOUth’s End Student Hunger grants, the Foundation will award community impact grants to local nonprofit organizations working to combat food insecurity in the Bay Area, informed by the chefs’ deep community ties and shared commitment to giving back. The effort is part of PepsiCo’s longstanding focus on driving tangible impact in the places where its employees and customers live and work, and the PepsiCo Foundation’s work to expand access to nutritious food, helping build a future where everyone has the opportunity to reach their full potential.

Additional culinary artisans from partners including Doritos, Frito-Lay, Quaker Oats Tostitos, Hellmann’s, Peet’s Coffee, Lifeway, and See’s Candies will round out this spectacular gastronomic lineup. More than 30 NFL Legends will bring gridiron star power to the evening, including Doug Flutie, Kyle Rudolph, Bryant Young, and Mark “Mighty Mouse” McMillian (pulling double duty as both NFL great and chef representing Grillin’ McMillian).

Beyond the culinary experience, guests will enjoy exclusive autograph sessions with NFL legends and greats, plus thrilling auction opportunities featuring Super Bowl LX tickets and coveted sports memorabilia. Each attendee will receive special Taste of the NFL gift bags courtesy of Lay’s and a commemorative football for player and chef autographs, presented by NFL Extra Points Visa® Credit Card, while a distinctive fundraising “lunchbox” wall will offer another way to support the cause. Plus, all guests will have the opportunity for a unique San Francisco Trolley car photo opportunity hosted by Rice-A-Roni.

The Guests’ Choice program, presented by Pacific Gas and Electric Company, invites attendees to vote for their favorite dish from Taste of the NFL restaurant chefs – with the winning chef taking home $500. The Doug Flutie Band headlines the evening’s entertainment, with surprise performances throughout the night, and Extra Food, a local Bay Area food bank, will support food recovery efforts.

Every element of Taste of the NFL drives support for GENYOUth’s unwavering commitment to eliminating food insecurity among America’s students. Net proceeds increase access to healthy school meals by providing essential meal equipment packages to K-12 school nutrition programs serving at-risk youth throughout the Bay Area and all 32 NFL Club markets across the country.

Steven Williams, Executive Vice President and Vice Chairman, PepsiCo, said: “PepsiCo is proud of our continued partnership with GENYOUth through Taste of the NFL, an event that demonstrates how we turn purpose into meaningful action. Through this program and the work of the PepsiCo Foundation, we can help ensure that students have consistent access to nutritious meals and the resources they need to thrive. We are honored to stand alongside GENYOUth in the fight against food insecurity and to help every child reach their full potential.”

Ann Marie Krautheim, M.A., R.D., L.D., CEO of GENYOUth, emphasized the urgency: “When one in five American children doesn’t know where their next meal will come from, we cannot afford to wait. Schools serve as nutritional lifelines for 30 million students nationwide, providing healthy meals including milk, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. Our partners – especially the NFL and mission-aligned supporters like PepsiCo – recognize that school meal programs can transform lives. Together, we’re working to ensure the only hunger a child experiences is the hunger to learn.”

“Taste of the NFL is one of the most exciting traditions of Super Bowl weekend, bringing together the best of football and food for a purpose that truly matters,” said Peter O’Reilly, NFL EVP of Events, International and Club Business. “As we celebrate Super Bowl LX in the San Francisco Bay Area, a region known for its incredible culinary scene, we’re proud to unite fans, chefs, and NFL Legends to make a lasting impact off the field. By leveraging our biggest moment of the year, we’re helping advance GENYOUth’s mission to ensure youth have access to the nutrition they need to learn, grow, and thrive.”

“We are so proud to partner with GENYOUth, said Culinary Institute of America President Michiel Bakker. “Today’s chefs are called on to do much more than cook. They are called to be conscious culinary leaders – to lead with empathy and to care for their communities. CIA faculty, students, and alumni embody those qualities both in and outside the kitchen, and we are honored to have several of them participate in Taste of the NFL and help further stem the tide of food insecurity in children.”

Taste of the NFL is supported by the NFL, presenting sponsor PepsiCo, Rice-A-Roni, Lay’s, and GENYOUth End Student Hunger partners including Cintas, Pacific Gas and Electric Corporation, Bread Financial, NFL Extra Points Visa® Credit Card, PNC Bank, Hellmann’s, Best Foods, Peet’s Coffee, Lifeway Kefir, Charles Woodson’s Intercept Wines, the Bay Area Host Committee, Sonoma County Winegrowers, FARE, Culinary Institute of America (CIA), National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF), FEED, San Francisco Chronicle, NBC Bay Area, Area De La Bahia, NBC Sports, and Yelp.

¹ PG&E support is completely funded by PG&E shareholders and not customers.

About Super Schools

GENYOUth’s Super Schools initiative, a Bay Area lead-up initiative to Taste of the NFL, transforms high-need Bay Area and California schools by delivering comprehensive school meal equipment packages and NFL FLAG-In-School kits that strengthen nutrition security and physical activity opportunities for students. Collaborating partners include the Bay Area Host Committee, San Francisco 49ers and Dairy Council of California, plus corporate champions including Amazon Access, Domino’s Smart Slice, the NFL Foundation, Pacific Gas and Electric Corporation, and the PepsiCo Foundation, Super Schools will generate access to 9.0 million school meals annually while expanding daily physical activity for over 33,000 students across the Bay Area.

Taste of the NFL and GENYOUth: 35 Years of Tackling Hunger

Since Wayne Kostroski founded Taste of the NFL in 1992, this event has spent 35 years building awareness and raising critical funds to combat hunger and food insecurity in Super Bowl host cities and across all 32 NFL Club markets, uniting America’s finest chefs with the league’s greatest players. GENYOUth proudly enters its fifth year as the event’s charitable beneficiary. Last year’s Taste of the NFL in New Orleans generated $2.2 million in collective impact, delivering 146 million school meals to food-insecure students nationwide.

Andrew Zimmern, Emmy Award-winning TV personality, chef, author, Taste of the NFL culinary host, and Goodwill Ambassador for the UN World Food Program, said: “For two decades, I’ve witnessed Taste of the NFL bring together extraordinary people around a simple truth: no child should go hungry. Nutrition equity drives my work every single day, and GENYOUth stands at the forefront of this fight. Join us in San Francisco to enjoy Super Bowl LX weekend’s finest cuisine while supporting a cause that changes lives. Every ticket, every bite, every moment matters.”

Patty Hubbard, Chief Marketing Officer, Bay Area Host Committee, added: “GENYOUth exemplifies the type of partnership that creates lasting value for our region. As we prepare to welcome the world for Super Bowl LX, initiatives like Super Schools and Taste of the NFL demonstrate our commitment to meaningful community investment. We’re not just hosting an event—we’re equipping Bay Area schools with tools their students need to succeed long after the final whistle blows.”

PepsiCo’s Support of GENYOUth’s Mission to End Student Hunger

PepsiCo has been an essential ally in GENYOUth’s mission to help ensure all children receive proper nutrition and physical activity opportunities. Since 2011, PepsiCo’s total contributions of $12.64 million have benefited more than 3,300 schools, positively impacting over 2 million students and generating access to over 520 million school meals.

These investments in partnership with GENYOUth have funded Quaker Oats breakfast equipment grants, launched the Spanish-language Fuel Up to Play 60 en Español program, expanded Grab and Go breakfast initiatives through PepsiCo’s Move for Good program, and advanced the PepsiCo Foundation’s Food for Good Program to help build more equitable food systems in which communities have more food security and access to nutritious meals.

In 2025 and leading into 2026, PepsiCo invested nearly $3 million supporting GENYOUth’s Taste of the NFL event, Super School Meals initiative, and broader End Student Hunger and physical activity efforts—enabling access to more than 50 million school meals nationwide. In Super Bowl LX’s Bay Area host market, 33,000 students are expected to benefit from increased access to over 8.9 million meals.

About GENYOUth
GENYOUth is a 501c3 national nonprofit dedicated to helping school children thrive by living a well-nourished and physically active life. A catalyst for youth health and wellness, GENYOUth has supported over 77,000 U.S. schools to equip them with the resources needed to ensure millions of children have equitable access to nutrition and physical activity. As part of the Action for Healthy Kids Network, GENYOUth convenes a network of private and public partners, including Fortune 100 companies and foundations, to ensure all children are nourished and active to be their best selves. Committed to ending student hunger and promoting physical activity, GENYOUth provides grants that increase access to healthy school meals for food insecure students and empower kids to develop lifelong healthy habits through movement and activity. GENYOUth is the official charitable partner of Taste of the NFL, a purpose-driven Super Bowl culinary experience, and Taste of the Draft, both of which raise awareness and generate funds to fight hunger and food insecurity. To learn more and support GENYOUth, visit www.GENYOUthnow.org and follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

About the National Football League
The National Football League is America’s most popular sports league, comprised of 32 franchises that compete each year to win the Super Bowl, the world’s biggest annual sporting event. Founded in 1920, the NFL developed the model for the successful modern sports league, including national and international distribution, extensive revenue sharing, competitive excellence, and strong franchises across the country.

About PepsiCo
PepsiCo products are enjoyed by consumers more than one billion times a day in more than 200 countries and territories around the world. PepsiCo generated nearly $92 billion in net revenue in 2024, driven by a complementary beverage and convenient foods portfolio that includes Lay’s, Doritos, Cheetos, Gatorade, Pepsi-Cola, Mountain Dew, Quaker, and SodaStream. PepsiCo’s product portfolio includes a wide range of enjoyable foods and beverages, including many iconic brands that generate more than $1 billion each in estimated annual retail sales.

Guiding PepsiCo is our vision to Be the Global Leader in Beverages and Convenient Foods by Winning with pep+ (PepsiCo Positive). pep+ is our strategic end-to-end transformation that puts sustainability and human capital at the center of how we will create value and growth by operating within planetary boundaries and inspiring positive change for planet and people. For more information, visit www.pepsico.com, and follow on X (Twitter), Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn PepsiCo.

About PepsiCo Foundation
The PepsiCo Foundation, the philanthropic arm of PepsiCo, invests in the essential elements of a sustainable food system with a mission to support thriving communities. Working with non-profits and experts around the globe, we’re focused on helping communities obtain access to food security, safe water and workforce development opportunities. We strive for tangible impact in the places where we live and work — collaborating with industry peers, local and international organizations, and our employees to affect large-scale change on the issues that matter to us and are of global importance. Learn more at www.pepsicofoundation.com. Follow us on LinkedIn.

Taste of the NFL Super Bowl Bay Area Advisory Committee
Chefs Sayat and Laura Ozyilmaz, Dalida
Patty Hubbard, Bay Area Host Committee
Michiel Bakker, Culinary Institute of America
Becca Prowda, Office of the Governor
Bryant Young, San Francisco 49ers Legend
Justin Prettyman, San Francisco 49ers Foundation
Juan Maio, NBC Universal Bay Area
Megan Schoettmer, PNC Bank
Emily Smith, San Francisco Chronicle
Laura Cubillos, Bright Fork
Christy Delisle, Culinary Kickoff
Michelle Magat, La Cocina

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SOURCE GENYOUth

BLUETTI, Texas Instruments, Covestro, and Leave No Trace Join Forces at CES 2026 to Advance Inclusive, Sustainable Energy Solutions

Posted on January 8, 2026 by sHq_LoGiNz

LAS VEGAS, Jan. 8, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — At CES 2026, global energy pioneer BLUETTI convened a landmark industry panel titled “Clean Energy for All,” examining the intersection of semiconductor engineering, material science, and environmental advocacy. The discussion brought together voices from Texas Instruments, Covestro, Leave No Trace, alongside veteran energy journalists to examine how clean energy can become more sustainable and accessible to a global audience.

Responsible Innovation: Balancing Performance and Planet

The panel first addressed “Responsible Innovation,” exploring how next-generation energy solutions must integrate performance with sustainability at every level. This was demonstrated through BLUETTI’s technical work with Texas Instruments and Covestro, focusing on the synergy between advanced power management and circular material science.

Internal Architecture: Henrik Mannesson, General Manager of Energy Infrastructure at Texas Instruments, a global semiconductor company that designs, manufactures and sells analog and embedded processing chips for various markets, highlighted how semiconductor innovations transform energy storage systems. The award-winning Apex 300 home battery backup leverages TI’s C2000™ real-time microcontroller technology with BLUETTI’s proprietary optimization to achieve industry-leading AC idle power consumption of just 20W. This technical foundation enables BLUETTI’s latest lineup to reach energy conversion efficiency up to 95%, setting a gold standard for minimizing wasted power.

External Materials: Complementing these internal gains, Eric Saks of Covestro introduced the Bio-based Elite 100 V2 portable power station. This unit is the first in portable power to use bio-circular plastics. Technical specifications confirm that the material meets UL94 V-0 flame retardancy and 10-year durability standards while reducing carbon emissions by 25% during the production phase. These material choices are part of a broader framework that has seen BLUETTI facilitate a reduction of 131,030 tons of CO2 equivalent since 2023.

Innovate for All: Enabling More Diverse Lifestyles

The discussion then shifted to the “All” in “Clean Energy for All,” highlighting how technology must adapt to increasingly mobile and diverse lifestyles.

Dean Ronzoni of Leave No Trace shared how BLUETTI’s portable power stations and portable solar panels supported its traveling teams across 37,968 miles and 174 educational events in 2025. This collaboration proves that clean energy is a vital tool for responsible outdoor recreation, integrating sustainability into the heart of the outdoor community.

Adding an industry perspective, pv magazine editor Tristan Rayner highlighted a transition toward “lifestyle energy,” noting that storage is evolving beyond backup security into mobility—a shift enabled by seamless, innovative solutions like the Charger 2 on display at CES 2026.

“Beyond mainstream scenarios, meeting extreme-environment needs is central to our mission,” added Illia Zahnitko, BLUETTI’s spokesperson. “Our Pioneer Na sodium-ion portable power station works safely down to -25°C and reduces reliance on critical lithium minerals. We remain committed to innovation that serves environmental responsibility.”

Panel Insights

Texas Instruments – Henrik Mannesson, GM, Energy Infrastructure
“Semiconductors are the unseen enablers of sustainable energy transformation. TI’s C2000™ microcontrollers and battery management technologies power energy storage systems like BLUETTI’s, making clean energy more efficient, reliable, and seamlessly integrated into everyday life.”

Covestro – Eric Saks, Marketing Manager, Americas
“Our Bayblend® RE polycarbonate, with 25% bio-circular content, empowers BLUETTI’s Elite 100 V2 to deliver breakthrough performance. This ‘Material Effect’ proves that premium, sustainable materials are essential to achieving both high-level engineering and environmental goals.”

Leave No Trace – Dean Ronzoni, Director of Corporate Development
“As someone who works every day to protect the places we love, I see firsthand how technology can either increase impact or help reduce it. When clean, portable energy is paired with responsible behavior, it can become a powerful tool for stewardship.”

pv magazine Editor & Expert Energy Journalist – Tristan Rayner
“We’re witnessing a transition in energy storage as it spreads throughout the home, and in mobility options as well. It’s clearly a shift from backup security to more lifestyle energy. I’m excited to keep up with the innovations within the sector, as we see on display at CES 2026.”

Accessible to All: Empowering More People

On the “Clean Energy for All” initiative, Illia Zahnitko noted that BLUETTI systems have generated 7.07 GWh of solar power since 2022. This impact is paired with social commitment; in 2025, deploying 1,192 power units provided $290,000 in support for community resilience—metrics detailed in the newly released 2025 BLUETTI Social Impact Report.

In closing, panel moderator Chris Pereira, CEO of iMpact, remarked: “Technical specifications are only as valuable as the measurable results they generate. The best innovations are those that ensure the transition to sustainable energy empowers communities worldwide.

About BLUETTI

Founded in 2009, BLUETTI has developed into a technology pioneer in clean energy, empowering over 4 million users across 110+ countries with sustainable power solutions for home, outdoor, and professional use.

Media Contact

Ellen Lee
PR Specialist
ellenlee@bluetti.com

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SOURCE BLUETTI POWER INC.

California Credit Union Delivers Holiday Toys & Gifts To Los Angeles Boys & Girls Club

Posted on January 8, 2026 by sHq_LoGiNz

GLENDALE, Calif., Jan. 8, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — California Credit Union has partnered with the Los Angeles Boys & Girls Club to bring some holiday magic to hundreds of Club kids, providing over 335 new toys and gifts donated by the credit union, its employees, and members.

“At California Credit Union, supporting our community is especially meaningful during the holidays,” said California Credit Union President/CEO Steve O’Connell. “Partnering with the Los Angeles Boys & Girls Club allows us to help bring joy and a sense of celebration to local children and their families. Our employees care deeply about making a difference, and this toy drive is a wonderful opportunity to share that spirit and give back to those who need it most.”

All of the toys and gifts were donated by California Credit Union, its employees and members in a month-long drive in its branch locations across Los Angeles County. The toys were distributed during the Los Angeles Boys & Girls Club holiday celebration on December 16 to the Club families it serves in communities across Northeast Los Angeles. Credit union volunteers also were on hand to help organize and distribute gifts for the kids.

The Los Angeles Boys & Girls Club’s mission is to inspire and enable all youth, especially from disadvantaged circumstances, to realize their full potential as productive, care and responsible members of the community. Classes for teens include gang prevention, Relationship Smarts, social interaction, wellness, the arts, and physical fitness. For more information about the Los Angeles Boys & Girls Club, please visit labgc.org.

About California Credit Union
California Credit Union is a federally chartered credit union founded in 1933 with assets of more than $5 billion, over 200,000 members and 25 retail branches. Named a Forbes Best-In-State Credit Union in 2024 & 2025, California Credit Union membership is available to community members and businesses nationwide. The credit union operates in San Diego and Riverside Counties as North Island Credit Union, a division of California Credit Union. Federally insured by the NCUA, the credit union offers a full suite of consumer, business and investment products and services, including comprehensive consumer checking and loan options, personalized financial planning, business banking, and leading-edge online and mobile banking. California Credit Union is certified as a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) with a Low Income Designation, offering inclusive products and services to build financial stability in our underserved communities, including a checking account certified as meeting the Bank On National Account Standards. California Federal Credit Union operates as California Credit Union. Visit ccu.com for more information or follow the credit union on Instagram® or Facebook® @CaliforniaCreditUnion.

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SOURCE California Credit Union

Net Impact Announces Winners of the 2025 Community Innovation Challenge

Posted on January 8, 2026 by sHq_LoGiNz

EL CERRITO, Calif., January 8, 2025 /3BL/ – Net Impact, in collaboration with Cisco, announced the winning teams of the 2025 Community Innovation Challenge, a global student case competition designed to generate tailored social impact programs based on Cisco’s technology and services. This global innovation challenge asked students to propose how to leverage Cisco’s portfolio of technologies and services to design a custom corporate social impact program for the global technology firm. The criteria were to drive meaningful community impact in a specific city or region and deliver business value for Cisco.

The challenge received 84 applications from 12 countries. The top five teams were selected to pitch their ideas at the Final Showcase. With the support of United Airlines, they travelled to Cisco’s campus in Research Triangle Park, NC, where they presented to an esteemed final judging panel of Cisco executives, competing for prizes totaling $17,500.

2025 Community Innovation Challenge Winners

First Place Team: DinéLink ($10,000 prize)
Led by Mahima Subramaniyan and Devagna Jadeja from the Thunderbird School of Global Management at Arizona State University, DinéLink impressed judges with their $12M sustainable connectivity program for the Navajo Nation, where only 33% have reliable internet, compared with 97% nationally.

Second Place Team: HealthHorizons ($5,000 prize)

Led by Priya Rao of the University of Connecticut, Julia Kuang of Wellesley College, and Grace Chen of Swarthmore College, HealthHorizons proposed addressing critical healthcare access challenges in Greene County, Alabama—a “dead zone” where only 50-55% have internet access, 27% live in poverty, and chronic disease rates are among the nation’s highest.

Third Place Team: OncoALERT ($2,500 prize)
Led by Dr. Jayanti Kumari and Sweta Pandey from the Translational Health Science and Technology Institute in India, OncoALERT proposed combining AI-powered oral cancer screening devices with Cisco’s networking infrastructure to deliver remote diagnostics in rural India.

“We’re thrilled to celebrate these winning teams who have demonstrated exceptional creativity and strategic thinking in leveraging technology for social good,” said Net Impact CEO Karen Johns. Cisco’s partnership on this initiative has provided emerging business leaders with invaluable experience in driving social impact through innovative business solutions. These winning proposals showcase the power of combining cutting-edge technology with deep community understanding.”

Mahima and Devangna reflected on their win: “Designing this Social Impact Program and participating in the Community Innovation Challenge has been incredibly meaningful for both of us. We’re deeply grateful to Net Impact and Cisco for creating a platform where ideas like ours can grow. A special thank you to our Cisco Mentor, Sean Cherry, for his guidance, and to Ethan Tacheene, an ASU Student from Many Farms, Navajo Nation, for trusting us with his stories, which shaped our perspective and the direction of the program. The entire experience strengthened our commitment to community-centered innovation, and we hope this program becomes a meaningful step toward bridging the digital divide.”

To learn more about the top 5 finalist teams and their social impact programs, read Cisco’s blog post penned by Net Impact program partner, Scott McGregor, who serves as Director, Community Enablement at Cisco, here. More information about the Community Innovation Challenge can be found at netimpact.org/programs/community-innovation-challenge.

About Net Impact

Net Impact, one of the largest and oldest global member organizations focused on impact, engages over 50,000 students and professionals annually. With almost 300 chapters in over 40 countries, our members are pursuing impactful careers and impactful lives across diverse industries, including business, sustainability, and social impact fields. Net Impact engages its global chapter community in experiential education-focused programming, convenings, and civic and community engagement projects. Net Impact is committed to using business as a force for good and building the capacity of the next generation of workforce members. Visit www.netimpact.org.

CONTACT:

Net Impact
Hilary Manzo, Associate Director of Programs
Phone: 415-495-4230 x369
Email: hmanzo@netimpact.org