Tag: PR Newswire

Sandy Hook Promise and WellCare of Kentucky Help Students Connect with Their Classmates

LOUISVILLE, Ky., Feb. 26, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Thousands of schools across the country celebrated National No One Eats Alone® Day, a program led by Sandy Hook Promise created to end social isolation and help students get to know one another, so that every student feels like they belong. WellCare of Kentucky, a leading managed care organization, and a company of Centene Corporation (NYSE: CNC), worked with local schools to support this program that helps students connect.

Thanks to the ongoing partnership with the Centene Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the Centene Corporation, WellCare of Kentucky provided curriculum and art project materials from the Sandy Hook Promise for National No One Eats Alone Day at no charge to Kentucky schools.

“Social isolation harms children both physically and mentally in terms of detrimental health impacts – some of which can be long-term – and it’s also a major risk factor and warning sign for extreme situations like self-harm and violence,” said Nicole Hockley, co-founder of Sandy Hook Promise.  “The power of personal connections is profoundly transformative, and that’s what’s so special about No One Eats Alone Day. Simple acts of kindness have the power to pull kids back from the brink – not only saving lives but changing them for the better. That’s why we are so honored to partner with the Centene Foundation in this incredibly important mission to protect kids. By working together, we can create safer, healthier futures for children throughout our nation.” 

For the seventh year in a row, WellCare supported National No One Eats Alone Day. Across Kentucky, 151 schools across the state participated. In all, 64,000 students took part in the program.

A special guest speaker, Pro Football Hall of Famer Anthony Muñoz, spoke about important topics such as bullying and self-esteem during a schoolwide assembly of 800 students at the Academy at Shawnee in Louisville as a part of their No One Eats Alone Day.

According to a recent World Health Organization study, teenagers who felt lonely were 22 percent more likely to receive lower grades in school. Loneliness and social isolation were cited with direct correlation to an increased risk of stroke, heart disease, depression, and thoughts of self-harm or suicidal ideation. The same study also linked social connection to improved physical and mental health.

Participating schools received a free Belonging Box, which included in-class lesson plans on social isolation and actionable steps to cultivate belonging. The Belonging Box also contained a student leadership guide, conversation starters to help students connect with someone new, and materials for Connect the Dots, an innovative art project that helps students share things about themselves and learn more about their classmates. All student materials are available in English and Spanish. All Belonging Boxes were provided at no charge to schools.

 “Social isolation has been identified as a precursor to bullying, self-harm, and community violence,” said Corey Ewing, CEO and Plan President for WellCare of Kentucky. “WellCare is sponsoring the program because when students are given the appropriate tools, they will stand up for others as empathetic and caring activists, not passive bystanders.”

No One Eats Alone Day was launched in a handful of schools in Northern California in 2012 by the nonprofit Beyond Differences, which became part of Sandy Hook Promise in September 2024. In 2025, Sandy Hook Promise sent more than 3,100 Belonging Boxes to schools in all 50 states, reaching over 1.5 million students on National No One Eats Alone Day.  Click here for additional information

Photographs from the event can be downloaded at https://www.flickr.com/gp/couragemedia/k2C6W8vYUS 

About Centene Foundation
The Centene Foundation (the “Foundation”), a private nonprofit focused on investing in economically challenged communities, is the philanthropic arm of Centene Corporation (NYSE: CNC) (“Centene”). The Foundation supports projects and initiatives strategically aligned with Centene’s mission-driven culture and enhances the work Centene is doing to remove the barriers to wellness that underserved and low-income populations face. The Foundation is committed to addressing social determinants of health and improving health equity in three distinct areas of focus: healthcare access, social services, and education. To learn more, visit the Centene Foundation’s website.

About Sandy Hook Promise
Sandy Hook Promise (SHP) envisions a future where all children are free from school shootings and other acts of violence. As a national nonprofit organization, SHP’s mission is to educate and empower youth and adults to prevent violence in schools, homes, and communities. Creators of the life-saving, evidence-informed “Know the Signs” prevention programs, SHP teaches the warning signs of someone who may be in crisis, socially isolated, or at-risk of hurting themselves or others, and how to get help. SHP also advances school safety, youth mental health, and responsible gun ownership at the state and federal levels through nonpartisan policy and partnerships. SHP is led by several family members whose loved ones were killed in the tragic mass shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School on December 14, 2012.

About WellCare of Kentucky
WellCare of Kentucky provides government-sponsored managed care services to families, children, seniors, and individuals with complex needs primarily through Medicaid, Medicare Advantage and Medicare Prescription Drug Plans across the state. WellCare of Kentucky is a Centene Corporation company. For more information, visit wellcareky.com. 

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/kentucky-students-create-a-culture-of-belonging-on-national-no-one-eats-alone-day-302698787.html

SOURCE WellCare of Kentucky

Sandy Hook Promise and WellCare of Kentucky Help Students Connect with Their Classmates

LOUISVILLE, Ky., Feb. 26, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Thousands of schools across the country celebrated National No One Eats Alone® Day, a program led by Sandy Hook Promise created to end social isolation and help students get to know one another, so that every student feels like they belong. WellCare of Kentucky, a leading managed care organization, and a company of Centene Corporation (NYSE: CNC), worked with local schools to support this program that helps students connect.

Thanks to the ongoing partnership with the Centene Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the Centene Corporation, WellCare of Kentucky provided curriculum and art project materials from the Sandy Hook Promise for National No One Eats Alone Day at no charge to Kentucky schools.

“Social isolation harms children both physically and mentally in terms of detrimental health impacts – some of which can be long-term – and it’s also a major risk factor and warning sign for extreme situations like self-harm and violence,” said Nicole Hockley, co-founder of Sandy Hook Promise.  “The power of personal connections is profoundly transformative, and that’s what’s so special about No One Eats Alone Day. Simple acts of kindness have the power to pull kids back from the brink – not only saving lives but changing them for the better. That’s why we are so honored to partner with the Centene Foundation in this incredibly important mission to protect kids. By working together, we can create safer, healthier futures for children throughout our nation.” 

For the seventh year in a row, WellCare supported National No One Eats Alone Day. Across Kentucky, 151 schools across the state participated. In all, 64,000 students took part in the program.

A special guest speaker, Pro Football Hall of Famer Anthony Muñoz, spoke about important topics such as bullying and self-esteem during a schoolwide assembly of 800 students at the Academy at Shawnee in Louisville as a part of their No One Eats Alone Day.

According to a recent World Health Organization study, teenagers who felt lonely were 22 percent more likely to receive lower grades in school. Loneliness and social isolation were cited with direct correlation to an increased risk of stroke, heart disease, depression, and thoughts of self-harm or suicidal ideation. The same study also linked social connection to improved physical and mental health.

Participating schools received a free Belonging Box, which included in-class lesson plans on social isolation and actionable steps to cultivate belonging. The Belonging Box also contained a student leadership guide, conversation starters to help students connect with someone new, and materials for Connect the Dots, an innovative art project that helps students share things about themselves and learn more about their classmates. All student materials are available in English and Spanish. All Belonging Boxes were provided at no charge to schools.

 “Social isolation has been identified as a precursor to bullying, self-harm, and community violence,” said Corey Ewing, CEO and Plan President for WellCare of Kentucky. “WellCare is sponsoring the program because when students are given the appropriate tools, they will stand up for others as empathetic and caring activists, not passive bystanders.”

No One Eats Alone Day was launched in a handful of schools in Northern California in 2012 by the nonprofit Beyond Differences, which became part of Sandy Hook Promise in September 2024. In 2025, Sandy Hook Promise sent more than 3,100 Belonging Boxes to schools in all 50 states, reaching over 1.5 million students on National No One Eats Alone Day.  Click here for additional information

Photographs from the event can be downloaded at https://www.flickr.com/gp/couragemedia/k2C6W8vYUS 

About Centene Foundation
The Centene Foundation (the “Foundation”), a private nonprofit focused on investing in economically challenged communities, is the philanthropic arm of Centene Corporation (NYSE: CNC) (“Centene”). The Foundation supports projects and initiatives strategically aligned with Centene’s mission-driven culture and enhances the work Centene is doing to remove the barriers to wellness that underserved and low-income populations face. The Foundation is committed to addressing social determinants of health and improving health equity in three distinct areas of focus: healthcare access, social services, and education. To learn more, visit the Centene Foundation’s website.

About Sandy Hook Promise
Sandy Hook Promise (SHP) envisions a future where all children are free from school shootings and other acts of violence. As a national nonprofit organization, SHP’s mission is to educate and empower youth and adults to prevent violence in schools, homes, and communities. Creators of the life-saving, evidence-informed “Know the Signs” prevention programs, SHP teaches the warning signs of someone who may be in crisis, socially isolated, or at-risk of hurting themselves or others, and how to get help. SHP also advances school safety, youth mental health, and responsible gun ownership at the state and federal levels through nonpartisan policy and partnerships. SHP is led by several family members whose loved ones were killed in the tragic mass shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School on December 14, 2012.

About WellCare of Kentucky
WellCare of Kentucky provides government-sponsored managed care services to families, children, seniors, and individuals with complex needs primarily through Medicaid, Medicare Advantage and Medicare Prescription Drug Plans across the state. WellCare of Kentucky is a Centene Corporation company. For more information, visit wellcareky.com. 

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/kentucky-students-create-a-culture-of-belonging-on-national-no-one-eats-alone-day-302698787.html

SOURCE WellCare of Kentucky

FAIRLESS HILLS, Pa., Feb. 26, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The Silvi Foundation today announced its official launch as a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing research in Alzheimer’s, dementia, ALS, Parkinson’s, and related neurodegenerative diseases. As its first major initiative, the Foundation has awarded a $100,000 grant to the Institute for Neurodegenerative Diseases (IND) to support innovative blood-based biomarker research aimed at improving early detection and diagnosis.

The Foundation was created in honor of Larry Silvi Sr., founder of Silvi Materials, and his wife Rose Silvi, both of whom battled Alzheimer’s disease. Their experience shaped the Silvi family’s long-term commitment to supporting meaningful scientific progress in the fight against neurodegenerative conditions.

“The launch of the Silvi Foundation represents a deeply personal commitment for our family,” said Joy Silvi, President of the Silvi Foundation. “We have witnessed firsthand the impact neurodegenerative disease has on patients and caregivers. Our goal is to direct funding toward rigorous research and innovative approaches that can accelerate discovery and improve outcomes for families facing these conditions.”

The inaugural grant supports IND’s efforts to develop accessible, blood-based diagnostic tools designed to identify neurodegenerative disease risk before symptoms appear. Earlier detection has the potential to strengthen clinical research, improve treatment planning, and enhance patient care.

IND’s research focuses on biomarkers that may indicate disease progression across Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, Lewy Body Dementia, and Frontotemporal Dementia. The Silvi Foundation’s support will help fund laboratory equipment, research personnel, biorepository development, and continued biomarker analysis.

Through thoughtful grantmaking and collaboration with leading institutions, the Silvi Foundation aims to build momentum toward earlier diagnosis and more effective treatment strategies for individuals and families affected by neurodegenerative disease.

For more information about the Silvi Foundation or to support its mission, visit https://silvifoundation.org/.

About the Silvi Foundation
The Silvi Foundation partners with leading research institutions and mission-aligned organizations to advance understanding, early diagnosis, treatment, and care for individuals affected by neurodegenerative diseases. Guided by personal experience and a commitment to responsible philanthropy, the Foundation supports initiatives with meaningful potential for scientific impact.

About Silvi Materials
Silvi Materials is a leading supplier of ready-mix concrete, cement, stone, sand, slag, and rock salt, with locations across Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and North Carolina. The company remains family-owned and is guided by values of long-term thinking, accountability, and service.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/silvi-foundation-announces-official-launch-to-advance-neurodegenerative-disease-research-302698706.html

SOURCE Silvi Materials

Loop shipped ~4,200 chargers in 2025, growing its global network to 8,500 EV charging ports worldwide

EL SEGUNDO, Calif., Feb. 26, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Loop Global (“Loop”), a leading provider of turnkey electric vehicle (EV) charging solutions, today announced a strong 2025 marked by over 50% year-over-year revenue growth, expanded partnerships across multifamily, hospitality, entertainment, and owner-operator customers, continued product innovation, and industry leadership in charging uptime, compliance, and service.

During the year, Loop shipped approximately 4,200 chargers to customers, growing its network to 8,500 total ports worldwide, reflecting increasing demand for Loop’s interoperable hardware, robust software platform, and high-touch service model designed to support large-scale deployments across complex operating environments.

As the EV market matures, Loop’s performance underscores a clear shift in customer priorities: consistent execution, dependable operations, and service quality that holds up in the real world. Even amid evolving policy headlines, consumer demand, improving vehicle economics, and continued infrastructure buildout, EV adoption is on a long-term upward trajectory.

“We’re extremely proud of the results we delivered in 2025, especially in a year when many EV charging providers struggled to scale reliably,” said Olga Shevorenkova, Chief Executive Officer, Loop. “As the market reset, it became clear that operational discipline and customer outcomes matter more than ever. Loop’s growth was driven by executing at scale and delivering a charging experience customers can depend on.”

“Looking ahead, we’re entering 2026 with strong momentum,” Shevorenkova added. “Even as the policy backdrop shifts, EV adoption is proving resilient. 2025 sales held steady versus 2024, and we expect the next wave of growth to be driven by consumer sentiment as EVs close the cost gap with gas-powered alternatives. We’re focused on scaling our platform, expanding internationally, and deepening strategic partnerships while maintaining the performance standards our customers expect.”

Deepening Customer Relationships Through Premium EV Charging Experience
Leading multifamily owners and operators remain cornerstone customers of Loop, with long-standing relationships—including AvalonBay Communities and AMLI Residential—underscoring Loop’s role as a trusted long-term infrastructure partner and validating the real-world performance of its solutions.

“Over the past several years, Loop has been a trusted partner as we scaled our EV charging footprint to over 800 ports, with a clear path to reaching more than 1,100 ports by the end of Q1 2026,” shared Noah Hager, Senior Vice President, Asset Management at AvalonBay. “Their ability to ensure consistent year-over-year growth while maintaining reliability and performance has been critical to our success in delivering a dependable EV charging experience for our residents.”

“Since partnering with Loop and their hands-on service, we’ve seen a sustained improvement in charger uptime reaching mid-to-high 90% range, which has had a direct, positive impact on our tenant satisfaction,” stated Josh Pierle, Vice President of Procurement at AMLI Residential. “Loop was also closely involved in overseeing our new installations, ensuring we met our uptime expectations from day one. What truly sets them apart is their proactive approach. Loop monitors our chargers daily, and any issues are addressed quickly and efficiently.”

Scaling Infinity Flash With High-90% Uptime in Real-World Conditions
In 2025, Loop made significant progress in deploying its flagship Infinity Flash charging platform, delivering high-90% uptime, strong utilization, and consistently strong performance under demanding real-world conditions.

Infinity Flash chargers have proven resilient in extreme environments, operating effectively at temperatures as low as –32°C and at elevations up to 3,000 meters. Notably, Loop successfully deployed Infinity Flash across a high-demand mountain corridor in Colorado, where the network continued to perform reliably—even during severe snowstorms—demonstrating the platform’s durability and readiness for the most challenging use cases.

Leading in Reliability, Compliance, and Incentives
In 2025, Loop continued to set the standard for technical and regulatory readiness across the EV charging landscape, maintaining and expanding certifications and incentive eligibility, including:

• Open Charge Point Protocol (“OCPP”) 2.0.1 certification, the industry’s most advanced interoperability standard for EV charging network communication
• CALeVIP, one of the most significant EV infrastructure incentive programs in the U.S., which can cover hundreds of dollars per site in installation costs
• ENERGY STAR® certification, reflecting Loop’s focus on energy efficiency and performance
• Eligibility across major utility and state rebate programs, including California, Washington, Oregon, Illinois, Massachusetts, New York, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Michigan, and Wisconsin

Continuing to Address Connectivity Challenges
Loop has recently introduced Infinity Link, a technology designed to operate seamlessly in environments with little to no network connectivity.

Unlike other EV charging offerings, Infinity Link enables drivers to initiate charging anytime and anywhere—even when the driver’s phone or the charger itself has limited or no connectivity—without interruption or delay. Infinity Link is designed to deliver successful charging sessions regardless of network conditions, while providing site hosts and operators with the assurance of near-100% uptime and continuous data visibility through Loop’s customer portal.

Expanding in the UAE
2025 also marked the continued expansion of Loop’s footprint in the United Arab Emirates, including the opening of a 44-port charging deployment at Reem Mall in Abu Dhabi—the largest EV charging site in the UAE.

The Reem Mall project underscores Loop’s ability to deliver large-scale, high-visibility charging infrastructure in new international markets while maintaining the same reliability, uptime, and service standards that define its North American deployments.

About Loop Global
Loop Global is a leading provider of comprehensive, turnkey electric vehicle (EV) charging solutions for customers worldwide. The company offers a complete suite of hardware, software, and services, and its streamlined charging stations are distinguished by their focus on industry-leading uptime, user convenience, and performance.

Applying a consultative, portfolio-based strategy, Loop guides customers through every step of the EV charging deployment journey with ease and confidence, supporting the continued mainstream adoption of electric vehicles. This approach has earned Loop long-standing relationships with marquee customers, including AvalonBay Communities, Reem Mall, and AMLI Residential, among others.

For more information, visit loopglobal.com.

Media Contact
Sara Linehan
sara@drumbeatcomm.com 

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/loop-global-delivers-a-breakout-2025-driven-by-over-50-yoy-revenue-growth-expanded-customer-adoption-and-industry-leading-uptime-302698648.html

SOURCE Loop Global, Inc.

Loop shipped ~4,200 chargers in 2025, growing its global network to 8,500 EV charging ports worldwide

EL SEGUNDO, Calif., Feb. 26, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Loop Global (“Loop”), a leading provider of turnkey electric vehicle (EV) charging solutions, today announced a strong 2025 marked by over 50% year-over-year revenue growth, expanded partnerships across multifamily, hospitality, entertainment, and owner-operator customers, continued product innovation, and industry leadership in charging uptime, compliance, and service.

During the year, Loop shipped approximately 4,200 chargers to customers, growing its network to 8,500 total ports worldwide, reflecting increasing demand for Loop’s interoperable hardware, robust software platform, and high-touch service model designed to support large-scale deployments across complex operating environments.

As the EV market matures, Loop’s performance underscores a clear shift in customer priorities: consistent execution, dependable operations, and service quality that holds up in the real world. Even amid evolving policy headlines, consumer demand, improving vehicle economics, and continued infrastructure buildout, EV adoption is on a long-term upward trajectory.

“We’re extremely proud of the results we delivered in 2025, especially in a year when many EV charging providers struggled to scale reliably,” said Olga Shevorenkova, Chief Executive Officer, Loop. “As the market reset, it became clear that operational discipline and customer outcomes matter more than ever. Loop’s growth was driven by executing at scale and delivering a charging experience customers can depend on.”

“Looking ahead, we’re entering 2026 with strong momentum,” Shevorenkova added. “Even as the policy backdrop shifts, EV adoption is proving resilient. 2025 sales held steady versus 2024, and we expect the next wave of growth to be driven by consumer sentiment as EVs close the cost gap with gas-powered alternatives. We’re focused on scaling our platform, expanding internationally, and deepening strategic partnerships while maintaining the performance standards our customers expect.”

Deepening Customer Relationships Through Premium EV Charging Experience
Leading multifamily owners and operators remain cornerstone customers of Loop, with long-standing relationships—including AvalonBay Communities and AMLI Residential—underscoring Loop’s role as a trusted long-term infrastructure partner and validating the real-world performance of its solutions.

“Over the past several years, Loop has been a trusted partner as we scaled our EV charging footprint to over 800 ports, with a clear path to reaching more than 1,100 ports by the end of Q1 2026,” shared Noah Hager, Senior Vice President, Asset Management at AvalonBay. “Their ability to ensure consistent year-over-year growth while maintaining reliability and performance has been critical to our success in delivering a dependable EV charging experience for our residents.”

“Since partnering with Loop and their hands-on service, we’ve seen a sustained improvement in charger uptime reaching mid-to-high 90% range, which has had a direct, positive impact on our tenant satisfaction,” stated Josh Pierle, Vice President of Procurement at AMLI Residential. “Loop was also closely involved in overseeing our new installations, ensuring we met our uptime expectations from day one. What truly sets them apart is their proactive approach. Loop monitors our chargers daily, and any issues are addressed quickly and efficiently.”

Scaling Infinity Flash With High-90% Uptime in Real-World Conditions
In 2025, Loop made significant progress in deploying its flagship Infinity Flash charging platform, delivering high-90% uptime, strong utilization, and consistently strong performance under demanding real-world conditions.

Infinity Flash chargers have proven resilient in extreme environments, operating effectively at temperatures as low as –32°C and at elevations up to 3,000 meters. Notably, Loop successfully deployed Infinity Flash across a high-demand mountain corridor in Colorado, where the network continued to perform reliably—even during severe snowstorms—demonstrating the platform’s durability and readiness for the most challenging use cases.

Leading in Reliability, Compliance, and Incentives
In 2025, Loop continued to set the standard for technical and regulatory readiness across the EV charging landscape, maintaining and expanding certifications and incentive eligibility, including:

• Open Charge Point Protocol (“OCPP”) 2.0.1 certification, the industry’s most advanced interoperability standard for EV charging network communication
• CALeVIP, one of the most significant EV infrastructure incentive programs in the U.S., which can cover hundreds of dollars per site in installation costs
• ENERGY STAR® certification, reflecting Loop’s focus on energy efficiency and performance
• Eligibility across major utility and state rebate programs, including California, Washington, Oregon, Illinois, Massachusetts, New York, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Michigan, and Wisconsin

Continuing to Address Connectivity Challenges
Loop has recently introduced Infinity Link, a technology designed to operate seamlessly in environments with little to no network connectivity.

Unlike other EV charging offerings, Infinity Link enables drivers to initiate charging anytime and anywhere—even when the driver’s phone or the charger itself has limited or no connectivity—without interruption or delay. Infinity Link is designed to deliver successful charging sessions regardless of network conditions, while providing site hosts and operators with the assurance of near-100% uptime and continuous data visibility through Loop’s customer portal.

Expanding in the UAE
2025 also marked the continued expansion of Loop’s footprint in the United Arab Emirates, including the opening of a 44-port charging deployment at Reem Mall in Abu Dhabi—the largest EV charging site in the UAE.

The Reem Mall project underscores Loop’s ability to deliver large-scale, high-visibility charging infrastructure in new international markets while maintaining the same reliability, uptime, and service standards that define its North American deployments.

About Loop Global
Loop Global is a leading provider of comprehensive, turnkey electric vehicle (EV) charging solutions for customers worldwide. The company offers a complete suite of hardware, software, and services, and its streamlined charging stations are distinguished by their focus on industry-leading uptime, user convenience, and performance.

Applying a consultative, portfolio-based strategy, Loop guides customers through every step of the EV charging deployment journey with ease and confidence, supporting the continued mainstream adoption of electric vehicles. This approach has earned Loop long-standing relationships with marquee customers, including AvalonBay Communities, Reem Mall, and AMLI Residential, among others.

For more information, visit loopglobal.com.

Media Contact
Sara Linehan
sara@drumbeatcomm.com 

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/loop-global-delivers-a-breakout-2025-driven-by-over-50-yoy-revenue-growth-expanded-customer-adoption-and-industry-leading-uptime-302698648.html

SOURCE Loop Global, Inc.

PIKOGAN, QC, Feb. 26, 2026 /PRNewswire/ – Abitibiwinni First Nation (hereinafter “Abitibiwinni”) is calling on Hecla Mining Company (NYSE: HL) (“Hecla”) and Orezone Gold Corporation (TSX: ORE) (ASX: ORE) (OTCQX: ORZCF) (“Orezone”) to ensure a smooth and fair transition that respects its Aboriginal rights and aligns future operations with current economic and environmental realities as part of the proposed sale of Hecla’s subsidiary “Hecla Quebec” and its Casa Berardi Mine to Orezone.

These concerns were raised by Abitibiwinni in a letter sent to the presidents of both Hecla and Orezone on February 3^rd, 2026, concerns which were largely dismissed and ignored by Hecla in its response dated February 16, 2026. Orezone, to this day, has not responded to Abitibiwinni’s letter.

“The sale of Hecla Quebec and Casa Berardi marks an important transition in our continued efforts to reconcile the sustainable development of our lands with our stewardship responsibilities,” said Chief Chantal Kistabish. “Abitibiwinni’s priority is to ensure that the sale, once finalized, leads us to constructive dialogue aimed at ensuring that fairness is restored in terms of our relationship with the mine and its owner and guaranteeing that further development only proceeds responsibly and with appropriate environmental safeguards.”

The Casa Berardi mine is located entirely on Abitibiwinni’s traditional lands, lands over which it has existing Aboriginal and Treaty rights. The mine is currently subject to an Impacts and Benefits Agreement (IBA) between Abitibiwinni and Hecla, but because of Hecla’s refusal to allow the agreement to factor in the sharp rise in gold prices, the very foundation of the partnership between Hecla and the First Nation has been undermined.

In its letter, Abitibiwinni also raised concerns about the impact of mining activities in the region on woodland caribou. Given the species’ cultural significance and ongoing decline, Abitibiwinni is moving to establish a network of protected areas in the region surrounding the Casa Berardi mine to protect the Detour-Kesagami caribou herd. Abitibiwinni expects both compagnies to support this initiative and insists that no further exploration or the possible expansion of the project can occur without its free and informed consent.

Abitibiwinni is therefore asking that Hecla and Orezone engage promptly in good-faith discussions to work toward a respectful and constructive path forward.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/canadian-first-nation-seeks-to-have-its-say-as-part-of-upcoming-sale-of-hecla-quebec-and-the-casa-berardi-mine-to-orezone-gold-corporation-302698569.html

SOURCE Abitibiwinni First Nation Council

Partnership Promotes Healthier, Greener Spaces in Downtown Louisville

LOUISVILLE, Ky., Feb. 26, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Gresham Smith, a premier architecture, engineering, and consultancy services firm, and the University of Louisville (UofL) Christina Lee Brown Envirome Institute have entered a five-year memorandum of understanding (MOU) to collaborate as part of the Greenprint Initiative, a 10-year program in partnership with Metro Louisville to develop a systemic, evidence-based approach to making downtown Louisville healthier and greener.

The partnership aims to combine scientific research, design coordination and shared learning to transform underutilized areas into healthier, greener public and private spaces. The Greenprint Initiative applies the latest science on how nature influences human health and strengthens environmental resilience.

“The strength of this collaboration lies in establishing reliable environmental baselines before development and assessing outcomes after construction and planting,” said Kathryn Cardarelli, Executive Vice President and Provost of UofL. “This data-driven approach will inform future design decisions and investments to maximize community health and environmental benefits.”

Under the MOU, Gresham Smith will partner with the Envirome Institute to address research needs and develop design strategies for various projects within the Greenprint footprint—a segment of downtown Louisville bounded by the Ohio River to the north, York Street to the south, 9th Street to the west, and Hancock Street to the east. This collaboration aims to integrate environmental and health goals into urban redevelopment. The Envirome Institute will conduct research, maintain environmental and human activity data and provide timely findings to support effective design strategies. Both organizations are committed to aligning design and research to enhance the partnership’s impact on downtown.

“This collaboration sets a precedent for how cities can use data-driven green design to improve quality of life,” said Louis Johnson, Executive Vice President of Land Planning at Gresham Smith. “We are excited to work alongside UofL to realize the vision of a greener, healthier Louisville.”

The new agreement builds on years of work and collaboration between Gresham Smith and the downtown Louisville community on projects like the Trager MicroForest, LOUMED, Broadway All the Way and more.

About Gresham Smith

We are a premier architecture, engineering and consultancy services firm providing integrated, comprehensive solutions for private- and public-sector clients. With $354 million in annual gross revenue and 27 offices throughout the United States, our expertise encompasses eight strategic sectors: aviation, building engineering, healthcare, industrial, land planning, life and work places, transportation, and water and environment. Throughout all of our work, we focus on providing exceptional client experience and outcomes.

Repeatedly recognized by Fast Company as one of the World’s Most Innovative Companies and consistently listed as a “Best Place to Work,” we are committed to delivering on our Core Purpose—to plan, design and consult to create healthy and thriving communities—through our brand promise of Genuine Ingenuity.

Learn more at GreshamSmith.com.

About University of Louisville

Founded in 1798 as one of the nation’s first city-owned, public universities, the University of Louisville (UofL) is a vital ecosystem that creates thriving futures for students, community and society. As one of only 13 universities in the United States to earn recognition by the Carnegie Foundation as a Research 1, Opportunity College and Community Engaged university, we impact lives in areas of student success, research and innovation, while our dynamic connection with our local and global communities provides unparalleled opportunities for students and citizens alike. The university serves as an engine that powers Metro Louisville and the commonwealth and as a classroom for UofL’s more than 25,000 students, who benefit from partnerships with top employers and a wide range of community service opportunities. Through the university’s approach to education, innovation and connection, Cardinals make impacts that make a difference, shaping a better future for all.

Learn more at Louisville.edu.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/gresham-smith-and-university-of-louisville-christina-lee-brown-envirome-institute-create-strategic-partnership-for-urban-greening-302697515.html

SOURCE Gresham Smith

Partnership Promotes Healthier, Greener Spaces in Downtown Louisville

LOUISVILLE, Ky., Feb. 26, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Gresham Smith, a premier architecture, engineering, and consultancy services firm, and the University of Louisville (UofL) Christina Lee Brown Envirome Institute have entered a five-year memorandum of understanding (MOU) to collaborate as part of the Greenprint Initiative, a 10-year program in partnership with Metro Louisville to develop a systemic, evidence-based approach to making downtown Louisville healthier and greener.

The partnership aims to combine scientific research, design coordination and shared learning to transform underutilized areas into healthier, greener public and private spaces. The Greenprint Initiative applies the latest science on how nature influences human health and strengthens environmental resilience.

“The strength of this collaboration lies in establishing reliable environmental baselines before development and assessing outcomes after construction and planting,” said Kathryn Cardarelli, Executive Vice President and Provost of UofL. “This data-driven approach will inform future design decisions and investments to maximize community health and environmental benefits.”

Under the MOU, Gresham Smith will partner with the Envirome Institute to address research needs and develop design strategies for various projects within the Greenprint footprint—a segment of downtown Louisville bounded by the Ohio River to the north, York Street to the south, 9th Street to the west, and Hancock Street to the east. This collaboration aims to integrate environmental and health goals into urban redevelopment. The Envirome Institute will conduct research, maintain environmental and human activity data and provide timely findings to support effective design strategies. Both organizations are committed to aligning design and research to enhance the partnership’s impact on downtown.

“This collaboration sets a precedent for how cities can use data-driven green design to improve quality of life,” said Louis Johnson, Executive Vice President of Land Planning at Gresham Smith. “We are excited to work alongside UofL to realize the vision of a greener, healthier Louisville.”

The new agreement builds on years of work and collaboration between Gresham Smith and the downtown Louisville community on projects like the Trager MicroForest, LOUMED, Broadway All the Way and more.

About Gresham Smith

We are a premier architecture, engineering and consultancy services firm providing integrated, comprehensive solutions for private- and public-sector clients. With $354 million in annual gross revenue and 27 offices throughout the United States, our expertise encompasses eight strategic sectors: aviation, building engineering, healthcare, industrial, land planning, life and work places, transportation, and water and environment. Throughout all of our work, we focus on providing exceptional client experience and outcomes.

Repeatedly recognized by Fast Company as one of the World’s Most Innovative Companies and consistently listed as a “Best Place to Work,” we are committed to delivering on our Core Purpose—to plan, design and consult to create healthy and thriving communities—through our brand promise of Genuine Ingenuity.

Learn more at GreshamSmith.com.

About University of Louisville

Founded in 1798 as one of the nation’s first city-owned, public universities, the University of Louisville (UofL) is a vital ecosystem that creates thriving futures for students, community and society. As one of only 13 universities in the United States to earn recognition by the Carnegie Foundation as a Research 1, Opportunity College and Community Engaged university, we impact lives in areas of student success, research and innovation, while our dynamic connection with our local and global communities provides unparalleled opportunities for students and citizens alike. The university serves as an engine that powers Metro Louisville and the commonwealth and as a classroom for UofL’s more than 25,000 students, who benefit from partnerships with top employers and a wide range of community service opportunities. Through the university’s approach to education, innovation and connection, Cardinals make impacts that make a difference, shaping a better future for all.

Learn more at Louisville.edu.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/gresham-smith-and-university-of-louisville-christina-lee-brown-envirome-institute-create-strategic-partnership-for-urban-greening-302697515.html

SOURCE Gresham Smith

Partnership Promotes Healthier, Greener Spaces in Downtown Louisville

LOUISVILLE, Ky., Feb. 26, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Gresham Smith, a premier architecture, engineering, and consultancy services firm, and the University of Louisville (UofL) Christina Lee Brown Envirome Institute have entered a five-year memorandum of understanding (MOU) to collaborate as part of the Greenprint Initiative, a 10-year program in partnership with Metro Louisville to develop a systemic, evidence-based approach to making downtown Louisville healthier and greener.

The partnership aims to combine scientific research, design coordination and shared learning to transform underutilized areas into healthier, greener public and private spaces. The Greenprint Initiative applies the latest science on how nature influences human health and strengthens environmental resilience.

“The strength of this collaboration lies in establishing reliable environmental baselines before development and assessing outcomes after construction and planting,” said Kathryn Cardarelli, Executive Vice President and Provost of UofL. “This data-driven approach will inform future design decisions and investments to maximize community health and environmental benefits.”

Under the MOU, Gresham Smith will partner with the Envirome Institute to address research needs and develop design strategies for various projects within the Greenprint footprint—a segment of downtown Louisville bounded by the Ohio River to the north, York Street to the south, 9th Street to the west, and Hancock Street to the east. This collaboration aims to integrate environmental and health goals into urban redevelopment. The Envirome Institute will conduct research, maintain environmental and human activity data and provide timely findings to support effective design strategies. Both organizations are committed to aligning design and research to enhance the partnership’s impact on downtown.

“This collaboration sets a precedent for how cities can use data-driven green design to improve quality of life,” said Louis Johnson, Executive Vice President of Land Planning at Gresham Smith. “We are excited to work alongside UofL to realize the vision of a greener, healthier Louisville.”

The new agreement builds on years of work and collaboration between Gresham Smith and the downtown Louisville community on projects like the Trager MicroForest, LOUMED, Broadway All the Way and more.

About Gresham Smith

We are a premier architecture, engineering and consultancy services firm providing integrated, comprehensive solutions for private- and public-sector clients. With $354 million in annual gross revenue and 27 offices throughout the United States, our expertise encompasses eight strategic sectors: aviation, building engineering, healthcare, industrial, land planning, life and work places, transportation, and water and environment. Throughout all of our work, we focus on providing exceptional client experience and outcomes.

Repeatedly recognized by Fast Company as one of the World’s Most Innovative Companies and consistently listed as a “Best Place to Work,” we are committed to delivering on our Core Purpose—to plan, design and consult to create healthy and thriving communities—through our brand promise of Genuine Ingenuity.

Learn more at GreshamSmith.com.

About University of Louisville

Founded in 1798 as one of the nation’s first city-owned, public universities, the University of Louisville (UofL) is a vital ecosystem that creates thriving futures for students, community and society. As one of only 13 universities in the United States to earn recognition by the Carnegie Foundation as a Research 1, Opportunity College and Community Engaged university, we impact lives in areas of student success, research and innovation, while our dynamic connection with our local and global communities provides unparalleled opportunities for students and citizens alike. The university serves as an engine that powers Metro Louisville and the commonwealth and as a classroom for UofL’s more than 25,000 students, who benefit from partnerships with top employers and a wide range of community service opportunities. Through the university’s approach to education, innovation and connection, Cardinals make impacts that make a difference, shaping a better future for all.

Learn more at Louisville.edu.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/gresham-smith-and-university-of-louisville-christina-lee-brown-envirome-institute-create-strategic-partnership-for-urban-greening-302697515.html

SOURCE Gresham Smith

TRAVERSE CITY, Mich., Feb. 26, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — How can older adults protect themselves from scams during a move? In HelloNation, real estate expert Ginny Fey of Real Estate One in Traverse City, Michigan, offers practical advice for staying safe when relocating later in life. She explains that while moving comes with many emotional and logistical challenges, safety is often overlooked, leaving seniors vulnerable to fraudulent schemes.

Fey emphasizes that awareness is the best defense. Scammers often target older adults during transitions, taking advantage of high emotions and quick decisions. She urges individuals and families to pay attention to red flags, such as high-pressure tactics, unusually low offers, or requests for large deposits upfront. If something feels rushed or suspicious, it is usually a sign to walk away.

Among the most common scams are fake or unlicensed movers. These individuals may disappear after taking deposits or inflate prices after loading belongings, effectively holding items hostage until more money is paid. To avoid these situations, Fey advises working only with trusted and verified senior relocation services. Professional providers should offer contracts, transparency, and clear communication at every step.

She notes that reputable moving companies will be able to provide referrals, reviews, and proof of insurance. Asking questions, requesting written agreements, and comparing quotes are important steps in safeguarding the process. Avoiding cash payments whenever possible also adds another layer of protection.

Fey also highlights the importance of safeguarding sensitive information. Financial statements, medical records, and other private documents should always be packed securely and kept in personal possession rather than with movers. This helps prevent identity theft or accidental loss during the transition.

Loved ones can also provide valuable support. Adult children or trusted friends can assist in vetting vendors, reviewing contracts, and spotting potential warning signs. Having a second set of eyes and ears creates an added safeguard against scams.

While moving later in life can feel overwhelming, Fey stresses that staying informed and alert makes all the difference. By prioritizing safety and using trusted professionals, seniors can focus on the positives of their transition rather than worrying about risks.

These safety tips are outlined in real estate expert Ginny Fey’s article, Stay Safe, Stay Smart: Avoiding Scams During a Senior Move, where she shares how to protect peace of mind during one of life’s biggest changes.

About HelloNation
HelloNation is a premier media platform that connects readers with trusted professionals and businesses across various industries. Through its innovative “edvertising” approach that blends educational content and storytelling, HelloNation delivers expert-driven articles that inform, inspire, and empower. Covering topics from home improvement and health to business strategy and lifestyle, HelloNation highlights leaders making a meaningful impact in their communities.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/in-hellonation-real-estate-expert-ginny-fey-shares-safety-tips-for-avoiding-scams-during-senior-moves-302698480.html

SOURCE HelloNation