Tag: PR Newswire

LISHUI, China, Jan. 8, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — CN Energy Group. Inc. (NASDAQ: CNEY) (“CNEY” or the “Company”), a Nasdaq-listed company, today announced that its wholly-owned subsidiary, Pathenbot Group Inc. (“Pathenbot”), has received the “Best Investment-Ready Innovation Award” from LeaderXport and BossHub, presented during the 2026 Consumer Electronics Show (“CES”) in Las Vegas.

This recognition highlights Pathenbot’s technological development efforts and its potential applications in the fields of intelligent robotics and artificial intelligence.

The LeaderXport × BossHub Innovation Awards, presented during CES, were co-initiated by LeaderXport and BossHub to recognize innovative enterprises and projects that demonstrate technological product innovation and potential for international market development. According to the award organizers, the awards are judged based on the core philosophy of “Going Global, Being Understood by the World.” The evaluation covers multiple dimensions, including product innovation, potential for international implementation, and market adaptability. Since its inception, the LeaderXport × BossHub Innovation Awards have attracted participation from numerous innovative enterprises worldwide.

As a key technology business segment of CNEY, Pathenbot has focused on intelligent robotics platforms, smart automation solutions, and localized after-sales services in the United States since its launch. Driven by continuous innovation, Pathenbot is continuing to expand its presence in the intelligent service, manufacturing automation, and consumer robotics markets. According to the award organizers, Pathenbot based on its intelligent robotics platform and scalable after-sales service modules, ultimately securing the “Best Investment-Ready Innovation Award.”

The Company believes that this recognition may enhance Pathenbot’s international brand awareness and may create new opportunities for its expansion into the global markets.

Mr. Liu, CEO of CNEY, stated, “Pathenbot’s receipt of this award reflects recognition of our investment in R&D within the robotics sector and our global strategic vision. This achievement reflects Pathenbot’s growing presence in the global innovation ecosystem and demonstrates CNEY’s commitment to advancing the industrialization and globalization of intelligent technology.”

About CN Energy Group. Inc.

CN Energy Group. Inc. is currently listed on NASDAQ under the symbol “CNEY.” With patented proprietary bioengineering and physiochemical technologies, CNEY has pioneered and specialized in producing high-quality recyclable activated carbon and renewable energy from abandoned forest and agricultural residues, converting harmful wastes into invaluable wealth and delivering significant financial, economic, environmental and ecologic benefits. CNEY’s products and services have been widely used by food and beverage producers, industrial and pharmaceutical manufacturers, as well as environmental protection enterprises. CNEY also develops and provides customizable robotics products, automation tools, and related software solutions for small and medium-sized industrial, logistics, and service businesses in North America. For more information, please visit the Company’s website at www.cneny.com.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains statements that do not relate to historical facts but are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements can generally (although not always) be identified by their use of terms and phrases such as anticipate, appear, believe, continue, could, estimate, expect, indicate, intend, may, plan, possible, predict, project, pursue, will, would and other similar terms and phrases, as well as the use of the future tense. Forward-looking statements are neither historical facts nor assurances of future performance. Instead, they are based only on current beliefs, expectations and assumptions regarding the future of the business of the Company, future plans and strategies, projections, anticipated events and trends, the economy and other future conditions. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, they are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict and many of which are outside of our control, including the risks described in our registration statements and annual reports under the heading “Risk Factors” as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Actual results and financial condition may differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements. Therefore, you should not rely on any of these forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements in this press release speak only as of the date hereof. Unless otherwise required by law, we undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise these forward-looking statements, whether because of new information, future events or otherwise.

Information contained on, or that can be accessed through, the Company’s website or any other website or any social media is expressly not incorporated by reference into and is not a part of this press release.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/pathenbot-a-subsidiary-of-cn-energy-nasdaq-cney-receives-leaderxport-O-bosshub-innovation-award-at-ces-2026-302656212.html

SOURCE CN Energy Group. Inc.

FARMINGTON, N.M., Jan. 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — LOGOS Energy, LLC (“LOGOS”, or, the “Company”) announced record-breaking results from its 2025 Mancos Shale development program in the San Juan Basin, highlighting continued operational excellence and production growth.

Since the 2022 management-led buyout with North Hudson Resource Partners, LOGOS’ operated production has tripled and the company has drilled 28 of the top 36 producing wells in San Juan Basin history ranked by peak monthly production.

The Company’s Rosa Unit 756H achieved a Peak IP30 of 26.6 MMcfe/d from 13,721′ of completed lateral, the highest 30-day rate ever recorded in the Basin. This milestone follows the Rosa Unit 704H, brought online in 2024, which reached 25.5 MMcfe/d from 13,363′ of completed lateral.

In July 2025, LOGOS placed online its first Mancos horizontal well located in Colorado, the Ignacio 33-7 29P. The 9,285′ well had a peak IP30 of 19.9 MMcfe/d and continues to produce 10 MMcfe/d after five months online. LOGOS believes these results demonstrate the consistency of the Mancos reservoir across its acreage in both New Mexico and Colorado.

LOGOS’ 2025 program included placing 15 Mancos wells online, all executed with outstanding drilling and completion efficiency. In total LOGOS completed approximately 158,000′ of lateral during the year, including its first three-mile laterals on Pad 26.

The company’s Pad 26 included six wells averaging 13,910′ of completed lateral per well and was placed online in early December. Total gross production from Pad 26 averaged over 150 MMcfe/d for the last 12 days of December, with all six wells exceeding 21 MMcfe/d.

LOGOS drilled an additional seven wells in 2025, with a total lateral length over 100,000′, which will be completed in 2026. This program included the Rosa Unit 834H, the Company’s first 4-mile well which is the longest horizontal well ever drilled in the San Juan Basin with total measured depth of 27,382′.

Jay Paul McWilliams, Chief Executive Officer of LOGOS Energy, commented “LOGOS and North Hudson have been the pioneers of modern Mancos development, proving that the San Juan Basin can compete head-to-head with any natural gas play in North America. Our team continues to push the technical limits of what’s possible, from drilling record lateral lengths to achieving basin-leading production rates. The Mancos is now a proven, repeatable growth engine, and I’m proud of our team’s efforts in leading this transformation.”

About LOGOS

LOGOS Energy, LLC (“LOGOS”) is continuing more than a decade of proven success in the San Juan Basin of Northwest New Mexico. LOGOS is a privately held natural gas and oil company focused on the responsible development of more than 240,000 net acres. For more information, please visit LOGOS’ website at www.logosenergyllc.com.

About North Hudson

North Hudson Resource Partners LP is a Houston-based energy investment firm focused on opportunistic upstream and midstream energy investments in North America with $2.5 billion of assets under management. North Hudson’s current portfolio includes operated and non-operated oil and gas wells across the U.S. and Canada, including the Delaware Basin, DJ Basin, San Juan Basin, the Haynesville Shale and the Montney. For more information, please visit North Hudson’s website at www.northhudsonrp.com.

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SOURCE LOGOS Energy, LLC

Leaders from semiconductors, materials, NGO, and energy media discuss how clean energy is moving from niche technology to everyday infrastructure.

LAS VEGAS, Jan. 8, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — BLUETTI, a global pioneer in clean energy solutions, hosted the “Clean Energy for All” panel at CES 2026, gathering industry experts from Texas Instruments (TI) , Covestro, Leave No Trace, and pv magazine. The discussion explored how clean energy storage is evolving to empower sustainable lifestyles, reinforcing BLUETTI’s role in advancing clean, independent energy for all through responsible innovation.

Panel Discussion: Collaborative Innovation for Sustainability

Henrik Mannesson (TI) highlighted how advanced semiconductor technologies enables groundbreaking products like the Apex 300 improve energy storage efficiency with only 20 W/h self consumption. Eric Saks (Covestro) noted that bio-based materials in the Elite 100 V2 reduce carbon emissions by 25% without compromising durability. Illia Zahnitko (BLUETTI) introduced the Pioneer Na, the world’s first sodium ion power station designed to minimize environmental impact at the battery level. Dean Ronzoni (Leave No Trace) shared how these innovations enhance real world off grid experiences, and Tristan Rayner (pv magazine) noted that energy storage is increasingly moving beyond traditional backup use, with solutions like the Charger 2 reflecting a broader shift toward supporting everyday home and mobile energy needs. At the CES 2026 product launch event, BLUETTI also released its 2025 Social Impact Report.

Clean Energy Future Insights: From Backup Power to Smart Home ESS

Building on these innovations, panelists highlighted three trends shaping next generation home energy storage: scalable ecosystem integration, intelligent energy management, and greener deployment across home and off grid scenarios.

BLUETTI spotlighted its expanding portfolio as a practical response to these trends. The Apex 300 demonstrates a modular, multi scenario approach that supports home, RV, and outdoor use, offering flexibility for diverse energy needs. Launched at CES 2026, the Elite 320 further extends flexible power use with wheeled mobility and smart control.

For whole home backup, the EnergyPro 6K and 13K illustrate connected, intelligent infrastructure. They integrate with Google Home, Amazon Alexa, and Home Assistant for scenario based automation, proactive charging, intelligent load management, and V2H functionality. The EnergyPro 6K has also been deployed in BLUETTI’s first U.S. Virtual Power Plant project with Meter, demonstrating the growing role of home ESS in grid-responsive energy systems.

What comes next for clean energy storage? Panelists shared their outlook:

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

Eric Saks, Electronics & Electrical Marketing Manager – Americas from Covestro said:
“The Material Effect demonstrates how premium materials fused with specialized expertise enable breakthrough performance. Our Bayblend® RE polycarbonate with 25 percent bio-circular attributed content empowers Bluetti’s Elite 100 V2 to deliver exceptional performance while advancing sustainability goals – proving it’s not just about what our materials are, but what they enable you to achieve.”

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

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

Illia Zahnitko, BLUETTI’s spokesperson:
“By 2026, BLUETTI is expanding from outdoor power to scalable, intelligent home ESS solutions, making clean energy part of everyday life.”

Panel moderator Chris Pereira, CEO of iMpact, summarized the discussion: “The future of clean energy is moving from niche innovation to everyday infrastructure. This is especially true when it comes to home energy storage system solutions. BLUETTI’s industry leadership is clearly reflected in its decision to convene voices across technology, materials, media, and environmental stewardship.”

About BLUETTI

Founded in 2009, BLUETTI is a technology pioneer in clean energy, specializing in innovative portable power stations and home battery backup solutions. With a commitment to sustainable energy storage and a growing portfolio of proprietary technologies, BLUETTI empowers over 4 million users across 110+ countries to live independent, energy resilient lives.

Additional background and reference materials can be found：
BLUETTI Home Energy Storage Information Pack

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/bluetti-brings-together-texas-instruments-covestro-leave-no-trace-at-ces-2026-to-explore-the-future-of-clean-energy-302656125.html

SOURCE BLUETTI

Leaders from semiconductors, materials, NGO, and energy media discuss how clean energy is moving from niche technology to everyday infrastructure.

LAS VEGAS, Jan. 8, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — BLUETTI, a global pioneer in clean energy solutions, hosted the “Clean Energy for All” panel at CES 2026, gathering industry experts from Texas Instruments (TI) , Covestro, Leave No Trace, and pv magazine. The discussion explored how clean energy storage is evolving to empower sustainable lifestyles, reinforcing BLUETTI’s role in advancing clean, independent energy for all through responsible innovation.

Panel Discussion: Collaborative Innovation for Sustainability

Henrik Mannesson (TI) highlighted how advanced semiconductor technologies enables groundbreaking products like the Apex 300 improve energy storage efficiency with only 20 W/h self consumption. Eric Saks (Covestro) noted that bio-based materials in the Elite 100 V2 reduce carbon emissions by 25% without compromising durability. Illia Zahnitko (BLUETTI) introduced the Pioneer Na, the world’s first sodium ion power station designed to minimize environmental impact at the battery level. Dean Ronzoni (Leave No Trace) shared how these innovations enhance real world off grid experiences, and Tristan Rayner (pv magazine) noted that energy storage is increasingly moving beyond traditional backup use, with solutions like the Charger 2 reflecting a broader shift toward supporting everyday home and mobile energy needs. At the CES 2026 product launch event, BLUETTI also released its 2025 Social Impact Report.

Clean Energy Future Insights: From Backup Power to Smart Home ESS

Building on these innovations, panelists highlighted three trends shaping next generation home energy storage: scalable ecosystem integration, intelligent energy management, and greener deployment across home and off grid scenarios.

BLUETTI spotlighted its expanding portfolio as a practical response to these trends. The Apex 300 demonstrates a modular, multi scenario approach that supports home, RV, and outdoor use, offering flexibility for diverse energy needs. Launched at CES 2026, the Elite 320 further extends flexible power use with wheeled mobility and smart control.

For whole home backup, the EnergyPro 6K and 13K illustrate connected, intelligent infrastructure. They integrate with Google Home, Amazon Alexa, and Home Assistant for scenario based automation, proactive charging, intelligent load management, and V2H functionality. The EnergyPro 6K has also been deployed in BLUETTI’s first U.S. Virtual Power Plant project with Meter, demonstrating the growing role of home ESS in grid-responsive energy systems.

What comes next for clean energy storage? Panelists shared their outlook:

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

Eric Saks, Electronics & Electrical Marketing Manager – Americas from Covestro said:
“The Material Effect demonstrates how premium materials fused with specialized expertise enable breakthrough performance. Our Bayblend® RE polycarbonate with 25 percent bio-circular attributed content empowers Bluetti’s Elite 100 V2 to deliver exceptional performance while advancing sustainability goals – proving it’s not just about what our materials are, but what they enable you to achieve.”

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

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

Illia Zahnitko, BLUETTI’s spokesperson:
“By 2026, BLUETTI is expanding from outdoor power to scalable, intelligent home ESS solutions, making clean energy part of everyday life.”

Panel moderator Chris Pereira, CEO of iMpact, summarized the discussion: “The future of clean energy is moving from niche innovation to everyday infrastructure. This is especially true when it comes to home energy storage system solutions. BLUETTI’s industry leadership is clearly reflected in its decision to convene voices across technology, materials, media, and environmental stewardship.”

About BLUETTI

Founded in 2009, BLUETTI is a technology pioneer in clean energy, specializing in innovative portable power stations and home battery backup solutions. With a commitment to sustainable energy storage and a growing portfolio of proprietary technologies, BLUETTI empowers over 4 million users across 110+ countries to live independent, energy resilient lives.

Additional background and reference materials can be found：
BLUETTI Home Energy Storage Information Pack

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/bluetti-brings-together-texas-instruments-covestro-leave-no-trace-at-ces-2026-to-explore-the-future-of-clean-energy-302656125.html

SOURCE BLUETTI

LAS VEGAS, Jan. 7, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — BLUETTI, a technology pioneer in clean energy, debuts the Elite 320 during its “BLUETTI 2026 Energy Vision” Event. Designed as a suitcase style 3.2kWh rolling power station, the Elite 320 combines large battery capacity, high energy efficiency, wheeled mobility, and 10ms UPS protection to deliver reliable, accessible home backup for power outages, emergencies, and everyday interruptions.

High Capacity Power Backup That Rolls to Needs

The Elite 320 houses a big 3,200Wh LiFePO₄ battery that can last over a decade,that translates to over 66 hours of refrigeration time, supporting up to two days of essential household power. Its solid wheels and retractable handle make transporting this 34kg powerhouse between the kitchen, living room, and yard effortless. With a 1,800W pure sine wave output and 11 different outlets, homeowners can run all home essentials, including fridges, microwaves, coffee machines, and lighting.

High Efficiency for Reduced Power Waste

The power backup duration extends further with enhanced system efficiency. The Elite 320 achieves an ultra-low self consumption of only 9W, maximizing every watt when it’s needed in critical moments. Its fast AC charging speeds up outage preparation, reaching 80% in 2 hours. To handle prolonged blackouts, it efficiently converts energy from solar panels, gas generators, or vehicle alternators via the Charger 2. 

Swift UPS Protection with Easy, Intelligent Control

The Elite 320 functions as a high speed uninterruptible power supply for everyday peace of mind. Within 10ms of a grid failure, it switches to battery power to sustain sensitive devices such as storage systems, routers, and gaming computers. It also enables personalized, app-based energy management with Sleep Mode, Remote Wakeup, and Timer Switch features. The compatibility with smart home assistant platforms, such as Google Home, Amazon Alexa, and Home Assistant, unlocks even more hands-free and automated power experiences. 

The Elite 320 is expected to be available in January, 2026. 

About BLUETTI

Founded in 2009, BLUETTI is a technology pioneer in clean energy, specializing in innovative portable power stations and home power backup for power outages. With in house R&D and manufacturing, and a growing patent portfolio, BLUETTI continually raises the standard for performance, safety, and sustainability in the industry, empowering over 4 million users across 110+ countries.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/ces-2026-bluetti-unveils-elite-320-rolling-power-station-for-affordable-essential-home-power-backup-302655127.html

SOURCE BLUETTI

LAS VEGAS, Jan. 7, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — BLUETTI, a technology pioneer in clean energy, debuts the Elite 320 during its “BLUETTI 2026 Energy Vision” Event. Designed as a suitcase style 3.2kWh rolling power station, the Elite 320 combines large battery capacity, high energy efficiency, wheeled mobility, and 10ms UPS protection to deliver reliable, accessible home backup for power outages, emergencies, and everyday interruptions.

High Capacity Power Backup That Rolls to Needs

The Elite 320 houses a big 3,200Wh LiFePO₄ battery that can last over a decade,that translates to over 66 hours of refrigeration time, supporting up to two days of essential household power. Its solid wheels and retractable handle make transporting this 34kg powerhouse between the kitchen, living room, and yard effortless. With a 1,800W pure sine wave output and 11 different outlets, homeowners can run all home essentials, including fridges, microwaves, coffee machines, and lighting.

High Efficiency for Reduced Power Waste

The power backup duration extends further with enhanced system efficiency. The Elite 320 achieves an ultra-low self consumption of only 9W, maximizing every watt when it’s needed in critical moments. Its fast AC charging speeds up outage preparation, reaching 80% in 2 hours. To handle prolonged blackouts, it efficiently converts energy from solar panels, gas generators, or vehicle alternators via the Charger 2. 

Swift UPS Protection with Easy, Intelligent Control

The Elite 320 functions as a high speed uninterruptible power supply for everyday peace of mind. Within 10ms of a grid failure, it switches to battery power to sustain sensitive devices such as storage systems, routers, and gaming computers. It also enables personalized, app-based energy management with Sleep Mode, Remote Wakeup, and Timer Switch features. The compatibility with smart home assistant platforms, such as Google Home, Amazon Alexa, and Home Assistant, unlocks even more hands-free and automated power experiences. 

The Elite 320 is expected to be available in January, 2026. 

About BLUETTI

Founded in 2009, BLUETTI is a technology pioneer in clean energy, specializing in innovative portable power stations and home power backup for power outages. With in house R&D and manufacturing, and a growing patent portfolio, BLUETTI continually raises the standard for performance, safety, and sustainability in the industry, empowering over 4 million users across 110+ countries.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/ces-2026-bluetti-unveils-elite-320-rolling-power-station-for-affordable-essential-home-power-backup-302655127.html

SOURCE BLUETTI

PASADENA, Calif., Jan. 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The Berns Team, a top-producing Pasadena real estate team, announced the results of its first annual Raise to Give event, where past and current clients voted to determine how the team would donate $105,000 to local nonprofits and community organizations. This year’s client-directed giving effort supports seven Pasadena-area groups making an impact in homelessness, emergency relief, historic preservation, and community development.

At the heart of Raise to Give is a simple idea: every home bought or sold with The Berns Team helps fuel meaningful change in the community. Instead of choosing the beneficiaries themselves, the team invited their clients—people whose real estate journeys they’ve guided—to vote on where the funds should go.

Following the community vote, The Berns Team distributed donations totaling $105,000, including:

• $50,000 – Door of Hope
• $25,000 – Eaton Fire Survivors Network
• $12,500 – Friends in Deed
• $7,500 – Eaton Fire Collaborative
• $5,000 – Harambee Ministries
• $2,500 – Habitat for Humanity, San Gabriel Valley
• $2,500 – Pasadena Heritage

“Our mission has always been about more than real estate,” said Laura Berns, co-owner of The Berns Team. “Raise to Give allows us to deepen our connection with our community by empowering our clients to help direct real impact where it’s needed most.”

“Real estate is the vehicle, but giving back is the purpose,” added Jason Berns, co-owner. “We’re incredibly grateful to our clients whose trust in us makes moments like this possible. Their votes shaped this entire initiative.”

The Raise to Give event took place at The Berns Team’s annual Fall Festival Client Appreciation celebration, where over three hundred clients gathered to enjoy food, games, and the announcement of the donation recipients. The initiative reflects The Berns Team’s commitment to using their business success to uplift La Cañada, Altadena, Pasadena and surrounding communities.

The Berns Team plans to expand Raise to Give in 2026 as part of a long-term vision to increase community support year after year.

About The Berns Team

The Berns Team, Keller Williams Luxury, is a leading real estate team serving Pasadena, La Cañada, Altadena, Monrovia, South Pasadena, San Marino, and surrounding communities. Known for strategic marketing, concierge-level service, and strong community involvement, The Berns Team has helped thousands of families buy and sell homes while reinvesting in local nonprofits through initiatives like Raise to Give.
Learn more at www.BernsTeamBlessings.com

Media Contact

The Berns Team
Keller Williams Real Estate
Pasadena, California
JasonLaura@theBernsTeam.com
Laura: (626) 676-1884 | Jason: (626) 826-4544

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SOURCE The Berns Team

Reaffirms Commitment to Pursuing All Measures to Maximize Value for Shareholders, Including by Voting Against All Incumbent Whitestone Board Members

BALTIMORE, Jan. 7, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — MCB Real Estate (“MCB”), a leading commercial real estate developer and investment management firm with a diverse nationwide portfolio and approximately $4 billion in AUM, today sent a letter to the Board of Trustees of Whitestone REIT (NYSE: WSR) (“Whitestone” or the “Company”) regarding MCB’s previously announced proposal to acquire all of the outstanding shares of Whitestone REIT for $15.20 per share in cash, with no financing contingency.

The full text of the letter is as follows:

January 7, 2025

Board of Trustees
C/O David K. Holeman
Whitestone REIT
2600 S. Gessner Rd, Suite 500
Houston, TX 77063

Dear Whitestone REIT Board of Trustees:

MCB Real Estate has yet to receive a response from the Whitestone Board, management team or advisors since we submitted a compelling, fully-financed proposal to acquire Whitestone REIT at an attractive 21.0% premium to the Company’s unaffected share price on November 3, 2025. As a significant shareholder owning approximately 9.2% of outstanding shares, MCB is asking the Whitestone Board to do its job and advance the best interests of all shareholders by responding to the acquisition proposal submitted more than two months ago.

We stand ready to consummate the proposed acquisition of Whitestone for $15.20 per share – and are willing to consider increasing our proposal price if Whitestone would grant due diligence and demonstrate that more value is warranted. MCB is committed to taking all actions necessary to maximize value for Whitestone shareholders.

More than a year has passed since the Board rejected MCB’s previous acquisition proposal, but Whitestone has not made meaningful progress towards closing the Company’s significant value gap or addressing its material underperformance relative to peers. We remain resolute that a sale of the Company is the best and only way to maximize value, and that the incumbent board members must take action now or be removed. Accordingly, we remain committed to voting against all incumbent Whitestone directors at the next Annual Meeting of Shareholders.

We know many of our fellow Whitestone shareholders share our frustration with the Board and management team’s inaction, evidenced by recent public events and reporting. We ask each member of the Whitestone Board to uphold their fiduciary duty to all shareholders by authorizing engagement with MCB or entering into a public strategic alternatives process. 

Sincerely,
/s/ P. David Bramble
P. David Bramble, Managing Partner

‍Advisors
MCB has engaged Vinson & Elkins LLP as lead counsel and Wells Fargo is serving as financial advisor to MCB. Joele Frank, Wilkinson Brimmer Katcher is serving as strategic communications advisor to MCB.

About MCB Real Estate
Founded in 2007, MCB Real Estate is a community-centric, privately held national commercial real estate investment management and development firm headquartered in Baltimore, Maryland. MCB boasts a nationwide portfolio of $4 billion in assets under management totaling approximately 20 million square feet with approximately 6 million square feet in its development pipeline. Property types include industrial, retail, mixed-use, multi-family, office, and healthcare. The firm offers a seamlessly integrated suite of commercial real estate investment services, including acquisitions, development, construction, asset management, property management, leasing, marketing, financing and legal expertise, thus ensuring comprehensive support throughout every stage of an asset’s lifecycle. www.mcbrealestate.com.

Additional Information
This communication does not constitute an offer to buy or solicitation of an offer to sell any securities. This communication relates to a proposal which MCB has made to acquire all of the outstanding shares of the Company. In furtherance of this proposal and subject to future developments, MCB (and, if a negotiated transaction is agreed, the Company) may file one or more proxy statements, tender offer or other documents with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). This communication is not a substitute for any proxy statement, prospectus, tender offer document or other document MCB or the Company may file with the SEC in connection with the proposed transaction.

This communication is neither a solicitation of a proxy nor a substitute for any proxy statement or other filings that may be made with the SEC. Nonetheless, MCB and its executive officers and other members of management and employees may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies in respect of the proposed transaction. Additional information regarding the interests of such potential participants will be included in one or more proxy statements, tender offer documents or other documents filed with the SEC if and when they become available. INVESTORS AND SECURITY HOLDERS OF THE COMPANY ARE URGED TO READ THESE AND OTHER DOCUMENTS FILED WITH THE SEC CAREFULLY IN THEIR ENTIRETY IF AND WHEN THEY BECOME AVAILABLE BECAUSE THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE PROPOSED TRANSACTION. These documents (if and when available) may be obtained free of charge from the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov.

‍Media Contacts

‍Andrew Siegel / Lyle Weston
Joele Frank, Wilkinson Brimmer Katcher
212-355-4449

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SOURCE MCB Real Estate

LOS ANGELES, Jan. 7, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — On the anniversary of the January 2025 devastating wildfires in Los Angeles, California, experts at Plastic Pollution Coalition and Habitable stress the need to reduce plastics in homes and other buildings to reduce future health and wildfire risks.

Their report, “How Plastics Fuel Wildfires & How to Rebuild Better,” explores the links between plastics and wildfires, and shows how communities impacted by wildfires can build and rebuild better with safer, plastic-free materials. Plastic building materials burn hotter, faster, and more toxic than natural materials. And while the immediate threats of wildfire may diminish once fires are extinguished, long-term environmental threats can persist for years following a disaster. Plastics greatly exacerbate these risks.

“Building homes and neighborhoods from flammable and toxic plastic is a giant risk to our health, safety, and futures. Last year, my family nearly lost our home in the wildfires that swept across LA. I saw first hand how countless neighborhoods, schools, and lives were upended in this unnecessary chain reaction. While there were of course other factors at play, I believe choosing plastic-free building materials and passing legislation to make these materials more affordable and accessible can help prevent heartbreaking loss like this from happening in the future.” — Grace Potter, Musician

“As LA rebuilds from last year’s fires, we must build resilience—that means using less plastic and more natural and nontoxic building materials.” — Dianna Cohen, Co-Founder & CEO, Plastic Pollution Coalition

Cohen and Potter, who both live in California, recently teamed up to write about the serious impacts of the 2025 disaster, its connections, and Los Angeles’ opportunity to build back better—with safer natural materials instead of harmful plastics.

Habitable CEO Gina Ciganik’s November 2025 TEDx Talk, “The Plastic Problem Hidden in Plain Sight” further describes the harms from plastic building materials and related chemicals, including links to cancer, reproductive harm, and developmental issues, and proposes solutions. Ciganik’s talk was part of TEDxGreatPacificGarbagePatch, focused on solutions to plastic pollution.

The building and construction industry is the second-biggest driver of plastic production and pollution, after the packaging industry. Better decisionmaking tools for builders and policies encouraging safer, plastic-free building materials use can help usher in necessary change that better protects communities from plastics’ dangers. The report and TEDx Talk present readily available healthier and more sustainable alternatives to plastic building materials, often with comparable cost and performance. They spotlight Habitable’s Informed^™, a free, publicly available product guidance grounded in science-based research, using a red-to-green ranking that allows building industry practitioners to easily avoid worst-in-class products (red), and prefer those that tend to be no or low-plastic (yellow or green).

Press contact:
Erica Cirino
Communications Manager
Plastic Pollution Coalition
press@plasticpollutioncoalition.org 

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SOURCE Plastic Pollution Coalition

Beneficiaries include Maui United Way, Maui Food Bank, and Aloha Puʻu Kukui

MAUI, Hawaii, Jan. 7, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Sentry is donating $1 million to three Maui-based nonprofit organizations in recognition of their vital contributions to community well-being, environmental restoration, and the island’s continuing recovery.

For the past eight years, Sentry has built relationships across Maui through its title sponsorship of The Sentry PGA TOUR event. And while the tournament was cancelled this year due to drought conditions that made play impossible, these contributions illustrate the company’s commitment to partnership with organizations on the island.

“The relationships we’ve built in Maui continue to guide how we support this community in thoughtful and appropriate ways,” said Pete McPartland, Sentry Chairman and CEO. “We admire the resilience of the Maui community but also recognize that needs remain high as rebuilding continues. We know these three organizations are well-equipped to help the community move forward—because we’ve watched their dedication up close for many years.”

About the donations

Representatives from Sentry recently met with local partners at the University of Hawai’i Maui College campus to present the following donations:

• $250,000 to Maui Food Bank to support safe, nutritious food distribution and hunger relief for local families.
  • Lisa Paulson, CEO, Maui Food Bank:
    “We’re deeply grateful for Sentry’s continued support. This gift will help us provide safe and nutritious food and hope to thousands of families across Maui who are at risk of going hungry.”
• $250,000 to Aloha Puʻu Kukui to help restore the native Hawaiian forest and ecosystem that captures rain and provides water, protecting long-term environmental health.
  • Kainoa Pestana, Conservation Manager, Pu’u Kukui Watershed:
    “Sentry’s donation allows us to accelerate our work— keeping invasive plants and animals out of the forest, restoring damaged lands, planting native trees and shrubs, and preserving the natural beauty and balance of the island for future generations.”
• $500,000 to Maui United Way to provide continued support the Sentry Mālama Nā Keiki initiative—launched in 2023 following the wildfires—to provide trauma-informed mental health services for children and families.

  Since its launch, Sentry Mālama Nā Keiki has supported more than 7,690 children and families, with new funding ensuring these services continue for Maui’s youth. Entering its third year, the program will help provide mental health services for children and families impacted by the Lahaina wildfires—providing counseling, stress management cultural training, and community events. Since November 2023, Sentry has contributed $2.5 million to the effort.

  • Jeeyun Lee, CEO, Maui United Way:
    “Through the Sentry Mālama Nā Keiki initiative, we have seen firsthand how targeted, trauma informed care can support our community’s healing and resilience. This new funding will allow us to continue to reach more children and families while also strengthening and sustaining the local providers who serve them, helping prevent burnout, build skills, and ensure a more resilient Maui County.”

About Sentry
Founded in 1904, Sentry is known for maintaining long-term customer relationships and supporting its communities. Sentry Insurance is part of one of the largest and most financially secure mutual insurance groups in the United States, holding an A+ (superior) Financial Strength Rating from AM Best as of June 2025. Sentry and its subsidiaries offer a wide range of insurance products, including property and casualty insurance, life insurance, annuities, and retirement programs for businesses and individuals nationwide. For a complete list of underwriting companies, visit sentry.com. 

About Sentry Insurance Foundation
The Sentry Insurance Foundation is the philanthropic arm of Sentry. Giving priorities include education, workforce development, United Way, and local organizations that work to improve the quality of life and build equitable communities where we live and work, including the Maui community.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/sentry-donates-1-million-to-support-maui-nonprofits-302655537.html

SOURCE Sentry Insurance