• Boosting energy efficiency in hazardous areas is critical for operators seeking to reduce their operating costs while also meeting sustainability targets
  • Certification to ATEX and IECEx requirements enables IE6 technology to be deployed in hazardous areas
  • IE6 Hyper-Efficiency SynRM motor reduces energy losses by 60 percent over a standard IE3 induction motor, making it the ideal upgrade solution for pumps, fans and compressors

ZURICH, May 14, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — ABB is the world’s first manufacturer to offer an IE6 Hyper–Efficiency motor certified to ATEX and IECEx requirements for use in hazardous areas. The new IE6 Increased safety motor, based on ABB’s magnet- and rare earth- free synchronous reluctance (SynRM) technology, offers up to 60 percent lower energy losses than the IE3 induction motors commonly used in Zones 1 and 2. This enables operators to realize a major boost in energy efficiency and avoided carbon emissions in industries where gas, vapor or dust might be present, such as chemicals, marine, oil & gas, pharmaceuticals and food & beverage.

The IE6 SynRM Increased safety motor is certified for use with variable speed drives (VSDs) to offer accurate control and high efficiency throughout the whole speed range, even at partial loads. This makes it the ideal upgrade for standard IE3 induction motors in pumps, fans and compressors. Over a typical 20-year service life, the energy savings from switching just one motor up to IE6 would be €87,5201, resulting in an eight-month payback period with 157,540 kg CO2 avoided—equivalent to 37 gasoline powered passenger cars driven for a year.

“In its Energy Efficiency report 2025, the IEA highlights the pressing need to make sustainable technology available as an affordable choice. And that is central to ABB’s own Engineered to Outrun philosophy,” said Stefan Floeck, President IEC LV Motors, ABB. “With the world’s first IE6 Hyper–Efficiency SynRM motor for hazardous areas, we now have the ideal solution for customers who must drive down their operating expenses while meeting stringent sustainability targets.”

The new IE6 SynRM Increased safety motor covers ratings from 110 kW, with IE5 versions available for up to 90 kW. As well as increased reliability and reduced maintenance, SynRM technology enables a more cost-effective installation. In Zone 1, cooler running can allow the use of an Increased safety SynRM motor where a Flameproof motor with a special enclosure would be the traditional choice. Furthermore, in Zone 2, the improved loadability of SynRM motors enables more power from the same size as an equivalent induction motor. This could enable a smaller, lower-cost motor to fulfil the same duty.

ABB’s IE6 and IE5 SynRM technology is part of the industry’s broadest portfolio of IEC LV motors for hazardous areas, with induction alternatives up to IE4 efficiency level. Whatever the technology, these motors combine robust construction, high energy efficiency, and reliable operation to deliver trusted performance and certified safety in the most demanding environments.

To learn more about ABB’s IE6 SynRM motors for hazardous areas, visit this website: https://www.abb.com/global/en/areas/motion/motors-generators/low-voltage-motors/iec-low-voltage-motors/motors-for-explosive-atmospheres

1 – Based on a 110 kW motor operating 8,760 hours/year at 75 percent average load, with an assumed energy cost of €0.20/kWh.

ABB is a global technology leader in electrification and automation, enabling a more sustainable and resource-efficient future. By connecting its engineering and digitalization expertise, ABB helps industries run at high performance, while becoming more efficient, productive and sustainable so they outperform. At ABB, we call this ‘Engineered to Outrun’. The company has over 140 years of history and around 110,000 employees worldwide. ABB’s shares are listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange (ABBN) and Nasdaq Stockholm (ABB). www.abb.com

ABB Motion, a global leader in motors and drives, is at the core of accelerating a more productive and sustainable future. We innovate and push the boundaries of technology to contribute to energy efficient, decarbonizing and circular solutions for customers, industries and societies. With our digitally enabled drives, motors and services we support our customers and partners to achieve better performance, safety and reliability. To help the world’s industries outrun – leaner and cleaner, we deliver motor-driven solutions for a wide range of applications in all industrial segments. Building on over 140 years of domain expertise in electric powertrains, our more than 23,000 employees across 100 countries learn and improve every day. go.abb/motion

For more information please contact:
ABB Motion – Media Relations
media-motion@abb.com

Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2979115/ABB.jpg

Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/abb-is-first-in-world-to-offer-a-magnet-free-ie6-motor-for-hazardous-areas-302771363.html

SOURCE ABB

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla., May 13, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — More than 300 leading researchers, policymakers and aviation innovators gathered at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University for the first-ever Florida Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) Symposium, featuring two days of talks and advanced demonstrations on this revolutionary class of aircraft poised to transform how people and cargo are moved through the skies and the emerging sector’s potential economic impact.

The symposium — hosted by the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) and Embry-Riddle from May 11-12 at the university’s Daytona Beach Campus — brought together a broad spectrum of representatives across industry, government and academia to advance the development, safe integration and economic opportunities of AAM in the state’s transportation system and across the nation. The event culminated in the live launch of an AAM aircraft from BETA Technologies, a leading electric aerospace company.

“This symposium marked an important milestone in Florida’s race to become the first state with commercial AAM operations, allowing us to leverage the expertise of key partners across the industry which will drive our efforts even further,” said Florida Department of Transportation Secretary Jared W. Perdue, P.E. “Offering a forum where top industry leaders can routinely collaborate on the future of AAM will play a critical role in bringing this technology to Florida’s skies.”

AAM, which includes breakthrough aircraft ranging from autonomous drones to air taxis, is set to transform aviation and aerospace capabilities and is likely to scale rapidly, with the potential for significant economic impact and high-paying jobs. With companies testing aircraft and the U.S. government leading in their safe integration into the airspace, the conference’s discussions set the agenda for understanding technology, safety, security, infrastructure, air traffic management, communications, policy and workforce challenges for AAM. 

Conference participants also discussed opportunities to build economic value through AAM — an evolution aligned with the mission of Embry-Riddle’s David B. O’Maley College of Business to serve as a premier destination for aviation and aerospace business education.

“Embry-Riddle is proud to help facilitate the collaborative work that will guide the future of next-generation aviation,” said Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University President P. Barry Butler, Ph.D. “Our research expertise, combined with strong partnerships across government and industry, positions Florida as a national hub for AAM innovation.”

Experts discussed AAM in fire, rescue and medical emergencies, along with varying types of vehicles used, including short- and vertical-takeoff aircraft. Propulsion technologies — such as hybrid, electric and hydrogen systems — were also explored.

Panel discussions addressed a range of topics related to AAM implementation, such as building electrified infrastructure; developing vertiports; integrating aircraft into complex airspace; training the workforce, including pilots and maintenance technicians; and helping the public trust a new mode of air travel. Other panels focused on aircraft operations; infrastructure and economic development opportunities; and security.

Government officials and industry representatives agreed that safety is paramount as AAM aircraft operations begin. They also noted that the AAM sector is poised to accelerate rapidly and enhance aviation by reducing noise, strengthening air traffic management systems, innovating in automation and increasing accessibility to air travel across rural, suburban and urban environments.

Panelists agreed that Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, along with the state’s legislators and agencies, has created a positive environment for Florida to lead in AAM. Of note, Florida has updated legislation to allow vertiports and electric charging systems to receive funding as part of transportation projects and is home to leading AAM infrastructure, such as FDOT’s Suntrax Air, which features the nation’s first AAM test track.

Symposium attendees were given a rare inside look at how AAM aircraft will operate through the live flight demonstration by BETA technologies, which flew its all-electric, fixed-wing aircraft, known as ALIA CTOL, at Embry-Riddle’s Flight Line near Daytona Beach International Airport. They also engaged with an immersive electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) simulator provided by Joby Aviation, a company developing electric air taxis for commercial passenger service.

“This summit provided attendees with an unparalleled opportunity to explore ecosystem considerations and strategies for AAM integration,” said Dr. Jeremy Ernst, vice president for Research and Doctoral Programs at Embry-Riddle.

“Participants also engaged directly with AAM technologies, learned about ongoing research and connected with government and industry partners to identify opportunities for developing and scaling AAM,” he said. “We look forward to future events with our partners at FDOT to continue advancing AAM innovation and implementation.”

Together, Embry-Riddle, FDOT and the state of Florida will continue to collaborate with industry to lead the integration of AAM by advancing the technologies, designing the infrastructure, informing the policies and building the talent pipeline that will define the future of America’s skies.

Media Contact:
Seth Robbins, director of media communications, 386-241-6060, Robbins1@erau.edu

About Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Reporters worldwide contact Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University for content experts in all aspects of aviation, aviation business, aerospace, engineering and STEM-related fields. Our faculty experts specialize in unmanned and autonomous systems, security and intelligence, air traffic and airport management, astronomy, human factors psychology, meteorology, spaceflight operations, urban air mobility and much more. Visit the Embry-Riddle Newsroom for story ideas.  

Embry-Riddle educates over 31,000 aspiring aerospace and aviation professionals at its residential campuses in Daytona Beach, Florida and Prescott, Arizona, and across more than 115 Worldwide Campus locations and online degree programs. In 2024, U.S. News & World Report named Embry-Riddle Worldwide the nation’s No. 1 provider of online bachelor’s degree programs among private universities. Our residential campuses hold multiple Top 10 rankings. All of our campuses have been ranked Best for Veterans.

Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/embry-riddle-fdot-host-inaugural-summit-to-shape-future-of-advanced-air-mobility-in-state-302771700.html

SOURCE Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla., May 13, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — More than 300 leading researchers, policymakers and aviation innovators gathered at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University for the first-ever Florida Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) Symposium, featuring two days of talks and advanced demonstrations on this revolutionary class of aircraft poised to transform how people and cargo are moved through the skies and the emerging sector’s potential economic impact.

The symposium — hosted by the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) and Embry-Riddle from May 11-12 at the university’s Daytona Beach Campus — brought together a broad spectrum of representatives across industry, government and academia to advance the development, safe integration and economic opportunities of AAM in the state’s transportation system and across the nation. The event culminated in the live launch of an AAM aircraft from BETA Technologies, a leading electric aerospace company.

“This symposium marked an important milestone in Florida’s race to become the first state with commercial AAM operations, allowing us to leverage the expertise of key partners across the industry which will drive our efforts even further,” said Florida Department of Transportation Secretary Jared W. Perdue, P.E. “Offering a forum where top industry leaders can routinely collaborate on the future of AAM will play a critical role in bringing this technology to Florida’s skies.”

AAM, which includes breakthrough aircraft ranging from autonomous drones to air taxis, is set to transform aviation and aerospace capabilities and is likely to scale rapidly, with the potential for significant economic impact and high-paying jobs. With companies testing aircraft and the U.S. government leading in their safe integration into the airspace, the conference’s discussions set the agenda for understanding technology, safety, security, infrastructure, air traffic management, communications, policy and workforce challenges for AAM. 

Conference participants also discussed opportunities to build economic value through AAM — an evolution aligned with the mission of Embry-Riddle’s David B. O’Maley College of Business to serve as a premier destination for aviation and aerospace business education.

“Embry-Riddle is proud to help facilitate the collaborative work that will guide the future of next-generation aviation,” said Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University President P. Barry Butler, Ph.D. “Our research expertise, combined with strong partnerships across government and industry, positions Florida as a national hub for AAM innovation.”

Experts discussed AAM in fire, rescue and medical emergencies, along with varying types of vehicles used, including short- and vertical-takeoff aircraft. Propulsion technologies — such as hybrid, electric and hydrogen systems — were also explored.

Panel discussions addressed a range of topics related to AAM implementation, such as building electrified infrastructure; developing vertiports; integrating aircraft into complex airspace; training the workforce, including pilots and maintenance technicians; and helping the public trust a new mode of air travel. Other panels focused on aircraft operations; infrastructure and economic development opportunities; and security.

Government officials and industry representatives agreed that safety is paramount as AAM aircraft operations begin. They also noted that the AAM sector is poised to accelerate rapidly and enhance aviation by reducing noise, strengthening air traffic management systems, innovating in automation and increasing accessibility to air travel across rural, suburban and urban environments.

Panelists agreed that Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, along with the state’s legislators and agencies, has created a positive environment for Florida to lead in AAM. Of note, Florida has updated legislation to allow vertiports and electric charging systems to receive funding as part of transportation projects and is home to leading AAM infrastructure, such as FDOT’s Suntrax Air, which features the nation’s first AAM test track.

Symposium attendees were given a rare inside look at how AAM aircraft will operate through the live flight demonstration by BETA technologies, which flew its all-electric, fixed-wing aircraft, known as ALIA CTOL, at Embry-Riddle’s Flight Line near Daytona Beach International Airport. They also engaged with an immersive electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) simulator provided by Joby Aviation, a company developing electric air taxis for commercial passenger service.

“This summit provided attendees with an unparalleled opportunity to explore ecosystem considerations and strategies for AAM integration,” said Dr. Jeremy Ernst, vice president for Research and Doctoral Programs at Embry-Riddle.

“Participants also engaged directly with AAM technologies, learned about ongoing research and connected with government and industry partners to identify opportunities for developing and scaling AAM,” he said. “We look forward to future events with our partners at FDOT to continue advancing AAM innovation and implementation.”

Together, Embry-Riddle, FDOT and the state of Florida will continue to collaborate with industry to lead the integration of AAM by advancing the technologies, designing the infrastructure, informing the policies and building the talent pipeline that will define the future of America’s skies.

Media Contact:
Seth Robbins, director of media communications, 386-241-6060, Robbins1@erau.edu

About Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Reporters worldwide contact Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University for content experts in all aspects of aviation, aviation business, aerospace, engineering and STEM-related fields. Our faculty experts specialize in unmanned and autonomous systems, security and intelligence, air traffic and airport management, astronomy, human factors psychology, meteorology, spaceflight operations, urban air mobility and much more. Visit the Embry-Riddle Newsroom for story ideas.  

Embry-Riddle educates over 31,000 aspiring aerospace and aviation professionals at its residential campuses in Daytona Beach, Florida and Prescott, Arizona, and across more than 115 Worldwide Campus locations and online degree programs. In 2024, U.S. News & World Report named Embry-Riddle Worldwide the nation’s No. 1 provider of online bachelor’s degree programs among private universities. Our residential campuses hold multiple Top 10 rankings. All of our campuses have been ranked Best for Veterans.

Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/embry-riddle-fdot-host-inaugural-summit-to-shape-future-of-advanced-air-mobility-in-state-302771700.html

SOURCE Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla., May 13, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — More than 300 leading researchers, policymakers and aviation innovators gathered at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University for the first-ever Florida Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) Symposium, featuring two days of talks and advanced demonstrations on this revolutionary class of aircraft poised to transform how people and cargo are moved through the skies and the emerging sector’s potential economic impact.

The symposium — hosted by the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) and Embry-Riddle from May 11-12 at the university’s Daytona Beach Campus — brought together a broad spectrum of representatives across industry, government and academia to advance the development, safe integration and economic opportunities of AAM in the state’s transportation system and across the nation. The event culminated in the live launch of an AAM aircraft from BETA Technologies, a leading electric aerospace company.

“This symposium marked an important milestone in Florida’s race to become the first state with commercial AAM operations, allowing us to leverage the expertise of key partners across the industry which will drive our efforts even further,” said Florida Department of Transportation Secretary Jared W. Perdue, P.E. “Offering a forum where top industry leaders can routinely collaborate on the future of AAM will play a critical role in bringing this technology to Florida’s skies.”

AAM, which includes breakthrough aircraft ranging from autonomous drones to air taxis, is set to transform aviation and aerospace capabilities and is likely to scale rapidly, with the potential for significant economic impact and high-paying jobs. With companies testing aircraft and the U.S. government leading in their safe integration into the airspace, the conference’s discussions set the agenda for understanding technology, safety, security, infrastructure, air traffic management, communications, policy and workforce challenges for AAM. 

Conference participants also discussed opportunities to build economic value through AAM — an evolution aligned with the mission of Embry-Riddle’s David B. O’Maley College of Business to serve as a premier destination for aviation and aerospace business education.

“Embry-Riddle is proud to help facilitate the collaborative work that will guide the future of next-generation aviation,” said Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University President P. Barry Butler, Ph.D. “Our research expertise, combined with strong partnerships across government and industry, positions Florida as a national hub for AAM innovation.”

Experts discussed AAM in fire, rescue and medical emergencies, along with varying types of vehicles used, including short- and vertical-takeoff aircraft. Propulsion technologies — such as hybrid, electric and hydrogen systems — were also explored.

Panel discussions addressed a range of topics related to AAM implementation, such as building electrified infrastructure; developing vertiports; integrating aircraft into complex airspace; training the workforce, including pilots and maintenance technicians; and helping the public trust a new mode of air travel. Other panels focused on aircraft operations; infrastructure and economic development opportunities; and security.

Government officials and industry representatives agreed that safety is paramount as AAM aircraft operations begin. They also noted that the AAM sector is poised to accelerate rapidly and enhance aviation by reducing noise, strengthening air traffic management systems, innovating in automation and increasing accessibility to air travel across rural, suburban and urban environments.

Panelists agreed that Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, along with the state’s legislators and agencies, has created a positive environment for Florida to lead in AAM. Of note, Florida has updated legislation to allow vertiports and electric charging systems to receive funding as part of transportation projects and is home to leading AAM infrastructure, such as FDOT’s Suntrax Air, which features the nation’s first AAM test track.

Symposium attendees were given a rare inside look at how AAM aircraft will operate through the live flight demonstration by BETA technologies, which flew its all-electric, fixed-wing aircraft, known as ALIA CTOL, at Embry-Riddle’s Flight Line near Daytona Beach International Airport. They also engaged with an immersive electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) simulator provided by Joby Aviation, a company developing electric air taxis for commercial passenger service.

“This summit provided attendees with an unparalleled opportunity to explore ecosystem considerations and strategies for AAM integration,” said Dr. Jeremy Ernst, vice president for Research and Doctoral Programs at Embry-Riddle.

“Participants also engaged directly with AAM technologies, learned about ongoing research and connected with government and industry partners to identify opportunities for developing and scaling AAM,” he said. “We look forward to future events with our partners at FDOT to continue advancing AAM innovation and implementation.”

Together, Embry-Riddle, FDOT and the state of Florida will continue to collaborate with industry to lead the integration of AAM by advancing the technologies, designing the infrastructure, informing the policies and building the talent pipeline that will define the future of America’s skies.

Media Contact:
Seth Robbins, director of media communications, 386-241-6060, Robbins1@erau.edu

About Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Reporters worldwide contact Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University for content experts in all aspects of aviation, aviation business, aerospace, engineering and STEM-related fields. Our faculty experts specialize in unmanned and autonomous systems, security and intelligence, air traffic and airport management, astronomy, human factors psychology, meteorology, spaceflight operations, urban air mobility and much more. Visit the Embry-Riddle Newsroom for story ideas.  

Embry-Riddle educates over 31,000 aspiring aerospace and aviation professionals at its residential campuses in Daytona Beach, Florida and Prescott, Arizona, and across more than 115 Worldwide Campus locations and online degree programs. In 2024, U.S. News & World Report named Embry-Riddle Worldwide the nation’s No. 1 provider of online bachelor’s degree programs among private universities. Our residential campuses hold multiple Top 10 rankings. All of our campuses have been ranked Best for Veterans.

Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/embry-riddle-fdot-host-inaugural-summit-to-shape-future-of-advanced-air-mobility-in-state-302771700.html

SOURCE Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

CHESAPEAKE, Va., May 13, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — On Tuesday, May 5th, Pyramid Roofing proudly reinforced its longstanding commitment to the Chesapeake community through a $5,000 donation to the Chesapeake Public Schools Education Foundation as part of the company’s “Clear the Lunch Debt” initiative. The contribution will support schools throughout the Chesapeake Public School system, helping provide meals for students and supporting a positive learning environment across the community.

For more than 30 years, Pyramid Roofing has remained deeply rooted in the values that shaped the company when it was founded by Dan Worstell. Today, under the leadership of General Manager Derek Worstell, the company continues to carry forward a culture centered on integrity, transparency, compassion, and being a dependable neighbor throughout the communities it serves.

“Community outreach has never been a side effort for Pyramid Roofing. It is part of who we are and how we operate every day,” said Derek Worstell. “My father built this company on the belief that success means doing right by people first. Supporting local students, schools, and families through initiatives like Clear the Lunch Debt is one way we continue carrying those values forward. We want the Chesapeake community to know Pyramid Roofing will always strive to lead with kindness, accountability, and a genuine commitment to our neighbors.”

The donation reflects Pyramid Roofing’s ongoing mission to invest in the communities that have supported the company for generations. By partnering with local organizations and schools, Pyramid Roofing aims to create a lasting impact beyond roofing services while continuing to strengthen the neighborhoods and families that make Chesapeake home.

About Pyramid Roofing

Founded more than 30 years ago, Pyramid Roofing is a trusted residential and commercial roofing company proudly serving communities throughout Virginia. Built on a foundation of integrity, transparency, craftsmanship, and customer care, Pyramid Roofing provides expert roofing solutions while remaining deeply committed to giving back to the communities it serves. Under the leadership of General Manager Derek Worstell, the company continues to honor the values established by their founder, Dan Worstell, through meaningful community outreach initiatives and dependable service.

About the Chesapeake Public Schools Education Foundation

The Chesapeake Public Schools Education Foundation is dedicated to supporting students, teachers, and educational opportunities throughout Chesapeake Public Schools. Through community partnerships, donations, and advocacy, the Foundation works to enhance educational experiences and provide meaningful resources that positively impact schools and students across the Chesapeake community.

Media Contact

Kelly Sumner

Vice President of Marketing

Vertex Service Partners

K.Sumner@vertexservicepartners.com

Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/pyramid-roofing-strengthens-chesapeake-community-through-5-000-donation-to-chesapeake-public-schools-education-foundation-302771623.html

SOURCE Pyramid Roofing

CHESAPEAKE, Va., May 13, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — On Tuesday, May 5th, Pyramid Roofing proudly reinforced its longstanding commitment to the Chesapeake community through a $5,000 donation to the Chesapeake Public Schools Education Foundation as part of the company’s “Clear the Lunch Debt” initiative. The contribution will support schools throughout the Chesapeake Public School system, helping provide meals for students and supporting a positive learning environment across the community.

For more than 30 years, Pyramid Roofing has remained deeply rooted in the values that shaped the company when it was founded by Dan Worstell. Today, under the leadership of General Manager Derek Worstell, the company continues to carry forward a culture centered on integrity, transparency, compassion, and being a dependable neighbor throughout the communities it serves.

“Community outreach has never been a side effort for Pyramid Roofing. It is part of who we are and how we operate every day,” said Derek Worstell. “My father built this company on the belief that success means doing right by people first. Supporting local students, schools, and families through initiatives like Clear the Lunch Debt is one way we continue carrying those values forward. We want the Chesapeake community to know Pyramid Roofing will always strive to lead with kindness, accountability, and a genuine commitment to our neighbors.”

The donation reflects Pyramid Roofing’s ongoing mission to invest in the communities that have supported the company for generations. By partnering with local organizations and schools, Pyramid Roofing aims to create a lasting impact beyond roofing services while continuing to strengthen the neighborhoods and families that make Chesapeake home.

About Pyramid Roofing

Founded more than 30 years ago, Pyramid Roofing is a trusted residential and commercial roofing company proudly serving communities throughout Virginia. Built on a foundation of integrity, transparency, craftsmanship, and customer care, Pyramid Roofing provides expert roofing solutions while remaining deeply committed to giving back to the communities it serves. Under the leadership of General Manager Derek Worstell, the company continues to honor the values established by their founder, Dan Worstell, through meaningful community outreach initiatives and dependable service.

About the Chesapeake Public Schools Education Foundation

The Chesapeake Public Schools Education Foundation is dedicated to supporting students, teachers, and educational opportunities throughout Chesapeake Public Schools. Through community partnerships, donations, and advocacy, the Foundation works to enhance educational experiences and provide meaningful resources that positively impact schools and students across the Chesapeake community.

Media Contact

Kelly Sumner

Vice President of Marketing

Vertex Service Partners

K.Sumner@vertexservicepartners.com

Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/pyramid-roofing-strengthens-chesapeake-community-through-5-000-donation-to-chesapeake-public-schools-education-foundation-302771623.html

SOURCE Pyramid Roofing

Benefit supported Women In Tech, Entertainment, Science & Sports Scholars

LOS ANGELES, May 13, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Global ambassador Asian Hall of Fame highlighted positive messages of interracial synergy with its Heritage Gala on May 1, 2026 at the iconic Biltmore Los Angeles. CBS LA Anchor Suzie Suh served as Master of Ceremonies of the festive Asian Heritage Month celebration brought to life by vibrant heritage costumes representing Asia, Latin America, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The intergenerational benefit funded Women In Tech, Entertainment, Science & Sports (WinTESS) scholarships for 103 applicants from all racial backgrounds.

Guests from California, Washington, Oregon, Hawaii, and New York applauded the Class of 2026 Official Announcement, including Asian Hall of Fame’s first-ever Major League Baseball Inductee Hideo Nomo, nominated by the Los Angeles Dodgers, and DTLA muralist Robert Vargas as Goodwill Ambassador.

Dedicated San Marino philanthropist and Board of Governors Chairwoman Melinda Rogers was honored as the 2026 Woman of the Year, with a moving speech presented by her younger brother William Rogers. Chairwoman Rogers highlighted the endearing impact of family, and delighted audiences with her custom Korean hanbok, designed alongside Anna Kim at her Koreatown boutique.

Distinguished philanthropist Loida Nicolas Lewis (Inductee 2007) shared an inspiring fireside chat with stories of family legacy and community empowerment. Guests received commemorative autographed memoirs, and complimentary gifts from Nan Yang Delight and SUP. Inductees in attendance were Marc Anthony Nicolas, Kristen Lui, incoming Inductees Kitty Lo and Maggie Tseng, Official Design Partner of the 2026 Season.

The dramatic Heritage Costume Show, sponsored by Meridien Vacation Homes, presented pageant holders including a Rose Pageant Princess, Miss Asia USA, Miss Teen Latina Global, Hi-Teen USA, Miss International U.S. Virgin Islands, Miss Taiwanese American, and Mrs. Asia Glamour.

Maki Mae performed from her upcoming album release with pianist Jason Lo and cellist Ryan Phipps. Walter Nishinaka and Los Angeles Taiko Collective kicked off raffle drawings, including an 18-carat gold ring donated by long-standing supporter Vartan Kazanjian, owner of Estate Jewelers of South Pasadena.

ABOUT ASIAN HALL OF FAME
Established in 2004, Asian Hall of Fame strengthens interracial synergy by advancing mainstream recognition of Asian and Native legacy. Inductees include Connie Chung, Kristi Yamaguchi, Margaret Cho, amongst others. Contact: press@asianhalloffame.org, (626) 600-9418, www.asianhalloffame.org.

Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/asian-hall-of-fame-heritage-gala-highlights-impactful-legacy-302771594.html

SOURCE Asian Hall of Fame

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