Author: sHq_LoGiNz

SAN FRANCISCO, Jan. 15, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The San Francisco Campus for Jewish Living (SFCJL) will host an intimate dinner party, but this is no ordinary meal. It is the culmination of a groundbreaking project that utilizes food, scent, and storytelling to spark memories for women living with dementia.

This initiative harnesses the science of neuroplasticity and the emotional power of food to improve the quality of life for people with memory loss. By pairing personal culinary memories with conversation and shared experiences, the project offers a hopeful, human-centered complement to traditional dementia care.

The project is led by Jake Broder, Atlantic Fellow for Equity in Brain Health at the Global Brain Health Institute at UCSF and Trinity College Dublin. An accomplished actor and playwright, Broder brings a rare interdisciplinary approach to brain health, blending research and lived experience.

“Dementia can shrink a person’s world,” Broder said. “But food has the power to reopen doors we thought were closed.”

Over two weeks, Broder works closely with four SFCJL residents, all women, engaging them in conversations about the foods that shaped their lives (family recipes, holiday meals, and dishes tied to identity). Together, they will recreate a meal from each woman’s past. The focus on women is intentional: they often mask mild cognitive impairment longer, are diagnosed later, and once symptoms are evident, are more likely than men to experience faster progression to dementia.

The project culminates on January 21 at SFCJL at 4 pm with a “dinner party,” where residents and their loved ones gather to share dishes and the stories behind them, transforming memory care into a shared, celebratory experience rather than a clinical one.

For SFCJL, the project serves as a poignant reminder that even in the face of memory loss, joy and connection remain profoundly accessible.

Media Contact: Angela Ingel, SFJL Director of Marketing, Aingel@sfcjl.org, 415.469.2244

About the Global Brain Health Institute (GBHI) – The GBHI is a leader in the global community dedicated to protecting the world’s aging populations from threats to brain health. GBHI is based at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), and Trinity College Dublin. To learn more at www.gbhi.org

About the San Francisco Campus for Jewish Living (SFCJL) – The SFCJL is a leading senior services organization in Northern California, providing comprehensive and innovative care to older adults that fosters purpose, dignity, and joy. Learn more at www.sfcjl.org

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/innovative-dinner-party-project-at-sf-campus-for-jewish-living-reawakens-memory-for-women-with-dementia-302663019.html

SOURCE San Francisco Campus for Jewish Living

New Jersey American Water and The Watershed Institute Urge Responsible Winter Salt Use to Protect Waterways and Wildlife

CAMDEN, N.J., Jan. 15, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — With winter underway and the possibility of snowstorms, New Jersey American Water and The Watershed Institute are reminding residents, businesses and municipalities that excessive use of road salt can have serious environmental consequences. While salt helps keep roads and sidewalks safe, its runoff can harm drinking water sources, aquatic ecosystems and infrastructure long after the snow has melted. In some cases, increased sodium and chloride levels in source water can even cause a temporary salty taste in tap water, though these levels do not pose a health risk for most people.

“Salt doesn’t just disappear when the ice melts. It moves into our rivers, streams and groundwater. Every winter we see rising chloride levels that can disrupt ecosystems and are extremely difficult for drinking water systems to treat. Using salt responsibly helps protect public health and our natural resources,” said Shawn M. LaTourette, commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP).

“Every extra handful of salt matters. When we use more than we need, it ends up in our drinking water sources,” said Shealynn O’Toole Source Water Protection program manager, New Jersey American Water. “Responsible use of winter salt keeps roads safe and protects the environment and source water.”

The impact of road salt doesn’t end when winter does. “High salt levels can persist and even worsen under drought conditions and have lasting effects year-round. During the summer months, salt run-off can harm fish and other aquatic life and even encourage the growth of harmful algal blooms,” said Erin Stretz, assistant director of science at The Watershed Institute.

To raise awareness and encourage sustainable road salting practices, Winter Salt Week 2026 will take place Jan. 26–30. This national initiative, led by Wisconsin Salt Wise in partnership with utilities, regulators, and environmental organizations, promotes responsible salt use through education, community engagement and resources for municipalities and homeowners. The campaign emphasizes that safety and sustainability can go hand in hand — and that small changes in how we use salt can make a big difference.

As part of Winter Salt Week, experts are sharing practical steps that residents and municipalities can take immediately to reduce environmental impacts without compromising safety. These tips are simple, cost-effective and proven to help protect water quality:

• Shovel first: Clearing snow before it turns to ice reduces the need for de-icing.
• Use only what’s needed: If you need to use salt, a 12-ounce coffee mug holds about one pound of salt, which is enough for a 20-foot driveway.
• Spread efficiently: Leave 3 inches of space between granules for effective coverage.
• Sweep up excess: Remove leftover salt from dry pavement to prevent runoff.
• Switch to brine: Applying a liquid brine instead of salt crystals can reduce the total amount of salt applied by 30-50%.
• Reevaluate contracts: Businesses can pay snow-removal contractors by area cleared, not salt applied.

For localized information about winter salting, visit NJ Salt Watch, a free community science program funded by NJDEP and managed by the Watershed Institute that provides residents, businesses and municipalities the opportunity to measure and share impacts of road salt on local streams and lakes. Learn more and register at njwatershedwatch.org/road-salt/. For more information about winter salt, register for daily webinars during Winter Salt Week at www.wintersaltweek.org.

About New Jersey American Water
New Jersey American Water, a subsidiary of American Water (NYSE: AWK), is the largest regulated water utility in the state, providing safe, clean, reliable and affordable water and wastewater services to approximately 2.9 million people. For more information, visit www.newjerseyamwater.com and follow New Jersey American Water on LinkedIn, Facebook, X, and Instagram.

About The Watershed Institute
The Watershed Institute is dedicated to keeping New Jersey’s water clean, safe and healthy. Founded in 1949, The Watershed Institute protects and restores water and the environment through conservation, advocacy, science and education. For more information about the Watershed, www.thewatershed.org or call (609) 737-3735.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/dont-let-salt-snowball-into-a-big-problem-302662950.html

SOURCE American Water

New Jersey American Water and The Watershed Institute Urge Responsible Winter Salt Use to Protect Waterways and Wildlife

CAMDEN, N.J., Jan. 15, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — With winter underway and the possibility of snowstorms, New Jersey American Water and The Watershed Institute are reminding residents, businesses and municipalities that excessive use of road salt can have serious environmental consequences. While salt helps keep roads and sidewalks safe, its runoff can harm drinking water sources, aquatic ecosystems and infrastructure long after the snow has melted. In some cases, increased sodium and chloride levels in source water can even cause a temporary salty taste in tap water, though these levels do not pose a health risk for most people.

“Salt doesn’t just disappear when the ice melts. It moves into our rivers, streams and groundwater. Every winter we see rising chloride levels that can disrupt ecosystems and are extremely difficult for drinking water systems to treat. Using salt responsibly helps protect public health and our natural resources,” said Shawn M. LaTourette, commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP).

“Every extra handful of salt matters. When we use more than we need, it ends up in our drinking water sources,” said Shealynn O’Toole Source Water Protection program manager, New Jersey American Water. “Responsible use of winter salt keeps roads safe and protects the environment and source water.”

The impact of road salt doesn’t end when winter does. “High salt levels can persist and even worsen under drought conditions and have lasting effects year-round. During the summer months, salt run-off can harm fish and other aquatic life and even encourage the growth of harmful algal blooms,” said Erin Stretz, assistant director of science at The Watershed Institute.

To raise awareness and encourage sustainable road salting practices, Winter Salt Week 2026 will take place Jan. 26–30. This national initiative, led by Wisconsin Salt Wise in partnership with utilities, regulators, and environmental organizations, promotes responsible salt use through education, community engagement and resources for municipalities and homeowners. The campaign emphasizes that safety and sustainability can go hand in hand — and that small changes in how we use salt can make a big difference.

As part of Winter Salt Week, experts are sharing practical steps that residents and municipalities can take immediately to reduce environmental impacts without compromising safety. These tips are simple, cost-effective and proven to help protect water quality:

• Shovel first: Clearing snow before it turns to ice reduces the need for de-icing.
• Use only what’s needed: If you need to use salt, a 12-ounce coffee mug holds about one pound of salt, which is enough for a 20-foot driveway.
• Spread efficiently: Leave 3 inches of space between granules for effective coverage.
• Sweep up excess: Remove leftover salt from dry pavement to prevent runoff.
• Switch to brine: Applying a liquid brine instead of salt crystals can reduce the total amount of salt applied by 30-50%.
• Reevaluate contracts: Businesses can pay snow-removal contractors by area cleared, not salt applied.

For localized information about winter salting, visit NJ Salt Watch, a free community science program funded by NJDEP and managed by the Watershed Institute that provides residents, businesses and municipalities the opportunity to measure and share impacts of road salt on local streams and lakes. Learn more and register at njwatershedwatch.org/road-salt/. For more information about winter salt, register for daily webinars during Winter Salt Week at www.wintersaltweek.org.

About New Jersey American Water
New Jersey American Water, a subsidiary of American Water (NYSE: AWK), is the largest regulated water utility in the state, providing safe, clean, reliable and affordable water and wastewater services to approximately 2.9 million people. For more information, visit www.newjerseyamwater.com and follow New Jersey American Water on LinkedIn, Facebook, X, and Instagram.

About The Watershed Institute
The Watershed Institute is dedicated to keeping New Jersey’s water clean, safe and healthy. Founded in 1949, The Watershed Institute protects and restores water and the environment through conservation, advocacy, science and education. For more information about the Watershed, www.thewatershed.org or call (609) 737-3735.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/dont-let-salt-snowball-into-a-big-problem-302662950.html

SOURCE American Water

CHICAGO, Jan. 15, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The Chicago Auto Show’s 34^th First Look for Charity gala will take place on Friday, Feb. 6, from 7-11 p.m. at McCormick Place. The gala is produced by the Chicago Automobile Trade Association (CATA), the organization that represents local new-car dealers, and raises more than $2 million annually for 18 Chicago area charities. 

This black-tie affair offers an exclusive, first chance to experience the Chicago Auto Show ahead of the 10-day public opening at McCormick Place on Feb. 7. Guests will be treated to a variety of gourmet food and drink stations from local restaurants, specialty cocktails, and live music across the show floor. Participating restaurant and beverage sponsors include, but are not limited to, Andy’s Frozen Custard, Bitoy’s Sweet Treats, Carnivale, Catered by Design, Eris Brewery & Cider House, Fre Wines, Goose Island Beer Company, Ida’s Artisan Ice Cream & Treats, Michael’s Grill and Salad Bar, Morton’s The Steakhouse, Norman’s Bistro, Signature Steak, Springview Sweets, Tres Agaves Tequila, Trinchero Family Estates Wines, along with McCormick Place’s in-house caterer, OVG360.

Gala attendees also have the chance to walk away with the keys to a brand-new vehicle. This year, two new vehicles will be given away, a 2026 Chevrolet Equinox and a 2026 Toyota Land Cruiser Hybrid. Any attendee who has purchased a ticket is eligible to win. However, the winner must be present at the time of the drawing.

“First Look for Charity makes a meaningful difference far beyond one night,” said Jason Roberts, Chicago Auto Show chairman. “It’s an evening that blends the thrill of the Auto Show with the power of giving, helping charities that are right here in our backyards doing the hard work to support our neighbors and communities.“

Roberts continued, “This gala gives attendees a front-row seat to the 2026 Chicago Auto Show in a setting that is both elegant and energetic, creating a truly distinctive experience in Chicago.”

Since its inception, First Look for Charity has raised more than $65 million for participating local charities. The CATA and new-car dealers also support charities year-round, through a program called Chicagoland Dealers Care. Chicagoland Dealers Care helps match donations made by CATA dealer members to charities within their communities.

The 2026 First Look for Charity beneficiaries include: 100 Club of Illinois; Advocate Health Care; ALS United Greater Chicago; Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago; Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago; Cal’s Angels Pediatric Cancer Foundation; Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago; Epilepsy Foundation of Greater Chicago; Franciscan Community Benefit Services; Girl Scouts of Greater Chicago and Northwest Indiana; Habitat for Humanity; Jesse White Tumbling Team; Lydia Home & Safe Families for Children; Misericordia; Sertoma Star Services; Special Olympics Illinois; Susan G. Komen, Chicago; and Turning Pointe Autism Foundation.

First Look for Charity is honored to once again partner with Men’s Wearhouse, the exclusive formalwear sponsor of the gala, to offer a discount on tuxedo rentals and purchases for gala attendees. For added convenience, Men’s Wearhouse will also provide a limited number of on-site tuxedo rentals. The partnership includes a contribution in support of the event.

“Each year, this gala delivers meaningful support to 18 charities that make a real difference, and we’re honored to stand with these organizations as they continue their vital work across Chicagoland,” said Roberts.

Tickets for the 2026 gala are available at FirstLookforCharity.org. For the first time, all tickets are fully digital, providing quicker access, streamlined check-in and a more seamless guest experience. Attendees may designate which charity, or charities, will receive their donation, with the option to divide it evenly among all 18 beneficiaries. Tickets are priced at $325, of which $283.84 is tax-deductible as a charitable contribution.

For more information on First Look for Charity and to purchase tickets, visit FirstLookforCharity.org.

About the Chicago Auto Show
First staged in 1901, the Chicago Auto Show is the nation’s longest running auto exposition in North America. The show is produced by the Chicagoland’s new-car dealer association, the Chicago Automobile Trade Association, which has staged the show since 1935. The 2026 public show is Feb. 7-16 at McCormick Place. For more information and the latest updates, visit ChicagoAutoShow.com.

About the Chicago Automobile Trade Association
Founded in 1904 and located in Oakbrook Terrace, the Chicago Automobile Trade Association is comprised of more than 400 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 Men’s Wearhouse
Founded in 1973 and a subsidiary of Tailored Brands, Men’s Wearhouse is the largest specialty retailer of menswear and rental products in the U.S., with more than 630 stores nationwide. Men’s Wearhouse carries a full selection of formalwear, tailoring, casualwear, and accessories. We are proud to offer merchandise brands such as Joseph Abboud, AWEARNESS Kenneth Cole, BLACK by Vera Wang, and Egara.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/chicago-auto-shows-2026-first-look-for-charity-gala-returns-feb-6-aiming-to-raise-millions-for-18-local-nonprofits-302662923.html

SOURCE Chicago Auto Show

RESTON, Va., Jan. 15, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — NextVolt, a leading utility-scale battery energy storage developer, today announced the successful sale of its 250 MW / 1,000 MWh standalone battery energy storage project to Exus Renewables North America (“Exus“), a prominent owner-operator and asset manager in the renewables sector.

The project is currently in development and located in the WECC region. NextVolt originated the project, executed site control, and performed diligence and early-stage development work. Under the agreement, Exus will advance the project through final development and construction, and will own and operate the facility long-term.

“We are thrilled to work with a leading firm like Exus and to announce this milestone – the sale of our largest battery energy storage project to date.” said Manish Kumar, CEO of NextVolt. “This transaction underscores the strength of our development platform and our ability to deliver utility-scale storage projects that improve capacity and grid resiliency within the WECC region”.

“Energy storage is essential to meeting growing electricity demand, particularly the need for reliable capacity during peak periods,” said Jim Spencer, CEO at Exus Renewables North America. “This project is a cornerstone asset in our expanding storage portfolio, and we are excited to bring it into our platform as we continue to scale our energy storage capabilities across North America.”

The transaction aligns with NextVolt’s strategy to recycle capital into its high-growth pipeline of projects under development.

About NextVolt
NextVolt, founded in 2023 in Reston, VA is a next-generation utility-scale battery energy storage developer. The company focuses on delivering grid-scale storage solutions that enhance grid reliability, resiliency, and support decarbonization. NextVolt currently has 1GW+ in development across North America.

For more information, visit www.nextvolt.com

About Exus Renewables North America
Exus Renewables North America is a leading independent owner, developer, and operator of utility-scale renewable energy projects. With more than 100 employees operating from offices in Pittsburgh, New York, and Albuquerque, the company focuses on developing, repowering, and managing renewable energy assets as part of its mission to drive sustainable growth in the renewable energy sector. With over 5.8 gigawatts in its total portfolio and over 700 MW now operating or under construction, Exus continues to expand its operational footprint while contributing to the nation’s decarbonization efforts and energy goals.

For more information, visit www.exus.us.

Media Contact 
Attn: Media 
contact@nextvolt.com 

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/nextvolt-announces-sale-of-250-mw–1-000-mwh-battery-energy-storage-project-to-exus-renewables-north-america-302662742.html

SOURCE NextVolt, LLC

RESTON, Va., Jan. 15, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — NextVolt, a leading utility-scale battery energy storage developer, today announced the successful sale of its 250 MW / 1,000 MWh standalone battery energy storage project to Exus Renewables North America (“Exus“), a prominent owner-operator and asset manager in the renewables sector.

The project is currently in development and located in the WECC region. NextVolt originated the project, executed site control, and performed diligence and early-stage development work. Under the agreement, Exus will advance the project through final development and construction, and will own and operate the facility long-term.

“We are thrilled to work with a leading firm like Exus and to announce this milestone – the sale of our largest battery energy storage project to date.” said Manish Kumar, CEO of NextVolt. “This transaction underscores the strength of our development platform and our ability to deliver utility-scale storage projects that improve capacity and grid resiliency within the WECC region”.

“Energy storage is essential to meeting growing electricity demand, particularly the need for reliable capacity during peak periods,” said Jim Spencer, CEO at Exus Renewables North America. “This project is a cornerstone asset in our expanding storage portfolio, and we are excited to bring it into our platform as we continue to scale our energy storage capabilities across North America.”

The transaction aligns with NextVolt’s strategy to recycle capital into its high-growth pipeline of projects under development.

About NextVolt
NextVolt, founded in 2023 in Reston, VA is a next-generation utility-scale battery energy storage developer. The company focuses on delivering grid-scale storage solutions that enhance grid reliability, resiliency, and support decarbonization. NextVolt currently has 1GW+ in development across North America.

For more information, visit www.nextvolt.com

About Exus Renewables North America
Exus Renewables North America is a leading independent owner, developer, and operator of utility-scale renewable energy projects. With more than 100 employees operating from offices in Pittsburgh, New York, and Albuquerque, the company focuses on developing, repowering, and managing renewable energy assets as part of its mission to drive sustainable growth in the renewable energy sector. With over 5.8 gigawatts in its total portfolio and over 700 MW now operating or under construction, Exus continues to expand its operational footprint while contributing to the nation’s decarbonization efforts and energy goals.

For more information, visit www.exus.us.

Media Contact 
Attn: Media 
contact@nextvolt.com 

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/nextvolt-announces-sale-of-250-mw–1-000-mwh-battery-energy-storage-project-to-exus-renewables-north-america-302662742.html

SOURCE NextVolt, LLC

RESTON, Va., Jan. 15, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — NextVolt, a leading utility-scale battery energy storage developer, today announced the successful sale of its 250 MW / 1,000 MWh standalone battery energy storage project to Exus Renewables North America (“Exus“), a prominent owner-operator and asset manager in the renewables sector.

The project is currently in development and located in the WECC region. NextVolt originated the project, executed site control, and performed diligence and early-stage development work. Under the agreement, Exus will advance the project through final development and construction, and will own and operate the facility long-term.

“We are thrilled to work with a leading firm like Exus and to announce this milestone – the sale of our largest battery energy storage project to date.” said Manish Kumar, CEO of NextVolt. “This transaction underscores the strength of our development platform and our ability to deliver utility-scale storage projects that improve capacity and grid resiliency within the WECC region”.

“Energy storage is essential to meeting growing electricity demand, particularly the need for reliable capacity during peak periods,” said Jim Spencer, CEO at Exus Renewables North America. “This project is a cornerstone asset in our expanding storage portfolio, and we are excited to bring it into our platform as we continue to scale our energy storage capabilities across North America.”

The transaction aligns with NextVolt’s strategy to recycle capital into its high-growth pipeline of projects under development.

About NextVolt
NextVolt, founded in 2023 in Reston, VA is a next-generation utility-scale battery energy storage developer. The company focuses on delivering grid-scale storage solutions that enhance grid reliability, resiliency, and support decarbonization. NextVolt currently has 1GW+ in development across North America.

For more information, visit www.nextvolt.com

About Exus Renewables North America
Exus Renewables North America is a leading independent owner, developer, and operator of utility-scale renewable energy projects. With more than 100 employees operating from offices in Pittsburgh, New York, and Albuquerque, the company focuses on developing, repowering, and managing renewable energy assets as part of its mission to drive sustainable growth in the renewable energy sector. With over 5.8 gigawatts in its total portfolio and over 700 MW now operating or under construction, Exus continues to expand its operational footprint while contributing to the nation’s decarbonization efforts and energy goals.

For more information, visit www.exus.us.

Media Contact 
Attn: Media 
contact@nextvolt.com 

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/nextvolt-announces-sale-of-250-mw–1-000-mwh-battery-energy-storage-project-to-exus-renewables-north-america-302662742.html

SOURCE NextVolt, LLC