Tag: PR Newswire

Global initiative collected over 6,400 lbs. of waste and engaged 1,700+ participants across continents

Photos here

HOLLYWOOD, Fla., Nov. 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — For the second consecutive year, Hard Rock International and Seminole Gaming joined forces with nonprofit organization Ocean Conservancy for the Global Sound Waves joint sustainability program. This collaboration unites Hard Rock team members and communities worldwide with Ocean Conservancy’s mission of protecting the oceans by reducing waste and driving meaningful environmental change.

The partnership, motivated by one of Hard Rock’s guiding mottos: Save the Planet, takes a proactive approach to ocean conservation by focusing on upstream waste management, addressing water, food, and material waste to prevent it from polluting the ocean. Through comprehensive waste audits and data-driven analysis, Hard Rock and Ocean Conservancy identify diversion opportunities and implement alternatives that set meaningful waste reduction goals across Hard Rock’s global operations.

The 2025 program included multiple waves:

• Innovation Challenge: A contest produced 51 submissions from front-line team members from properties in 9 countries and 3 continents who identified innovative solutions to reduce waste on their properties.

  1st Place: Jefferson Cristovao, Sukanya Haughton, Erika Barrera – Seminole Classic Casinodeveloped two programs around food waste composting and glass recycling—designed to reduce landfill impact and strengthen community partnerships.
  2nd Place: Sara Mendoza – Hard Rock Hotel Maldives tackled the challenge of broken beach umbrellas, transforming them into stylish wet bags for guests, turning waste into a sustainability reminder.
  3rd Place: Rodrigo Perez Castro – Hard Rock Casino Rockford gamified the reduction of single-use plastic cups, creating an engaging experience that combines entertainment with environmental responsibility.
  4th Place: Jelisa Blunt – Hard Rock Casino Cincinnati proposed reusable cups with smart return technology, rewarding guests through our Unity loyalty program and reducing plastic waste in a tech-forward manner.

• Community Cleanup Events: From September through November, Hard Rock, Seminole Gaming, and Ocean Conservancy coordinated global community activations aimed at enhancing the environment, promoting biodiversity, and reducing waste. Properties such as Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood, Seminole Casino Coconut Creek, Seminole Classic Casino, Hard Rock Hotel Pattaya in Thailand, Hard Rock Hotel Tenerife, and Hard Rock Hotel Maldives hosted beach clean-ups that brought 1,700+ team members, guests, communities, and local organizations together to remove pollution from nearby beaches, totaling more than 6,400 lbs. of waste collected. Examples of multi-faceted approaches include Hard Rock Casino Rockford with an e-waste collection drive, book drive, fundraiser, and neighborhood clean-up, while Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana integrated environmental education into its Kids’ Club programming to inspire the next generation of ocean advocates.

  Additional participating properties included Hard Rock Hotels in Orlando, Daytona Beach, Goa, Bali, Cancun, Los Cabos, Riviera Maya, Vallarta, Madrid, Marbella, Desaru Coast, and Shenzhen; Hard Rock Hotels & Casinos in Sacramento at Fire Mountain, Sioux City, and Atlantic City; Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana, and Cincinnati; and Hard Rock Cafes in Cologne, Manchester, Milan, Venice, Nambq and Brussels.

• Team Member Education: Over 143 team members participated in a global trivia event to build the knowledge and skills that can make a difference.

“This partnership reflects Hard Rock’s deep commitment to the areas we serve, with each surrounding environment being such an important part of team member and local community life and guest experiences,” said Paul Pellizzari, Vice President of Global Social Responsibility at Hard Rock International and Seminole Gaming. “We’re proud to support Ocean Conservancy’s vital work protecting our oceans for future generations.”

“We’re grateful for our continued partnership with Hard Rock International and Seminole Gaming,” said Jenna DiPaolo, Chief Brand and Communications Officer at Ocean Conservancy. “Ocean conservation requires collective action, and Hard Rock’s commitment to sustainability shows the powerful impact businesses can have when they prioritize our planet.”

Visit www.hardrock.com/social-responsibility to learn more.

About Hard Rock^® 
Hard Rock International (HRI) is one of the most globally recognized companies with venues in nearly 80 countries spanning more than 300 venues including owned/licensed or managed Hotels, Casinos, Rock Shops^®, Live Performance Locations and Cafes. Beginning with an Eric Clapton guitar, Hard Rock owns the world’s largest and most valuable collection of authentic music memorabilia with more than 88,000 pieces displayed at locations around the globe. The Unity™ by Hard Rock global loyalty program rewards members for doing the things they love across participating properties. In addition, Hard Rock Digital spotlights the sports betting and iGaming experience with products remixed in the spirit of Hard Rock for players worldwide. 

HRI has received numerous industry, destination and workplace awards across the travel, hospitality, gaming, entertainment and food & beverage sectors. HRI currently holds investment grades from primary investment-grade rating agencies: S&P Global Ratings (BBB) and Fitch Ratings (BBB). For more information on Hard Rock International, visit www.hardrock.com or shop.hardrock.com. 

About Ocean Conservancy
For more than 50 years, Ocean Conservancy has delivered effective, evidence-based solutions for the ocean and all who depend on it. Today, we continue to unite science, people and policy to protect our ocean from the greatest challenges it faces: climate change, plastic pollution and biodiversity loss. We are a 501(C)3 headquartered in Washington, D.C. that inspires a worldwide network of partners, advocates and supporters through our comprehensive and clear-eyed approach to ocean conservation. Together, we are securing a healthy ocean and a thriving planet, forever and for everyone. For more information, visit oceanconservancy.org, or follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Bluesky or Instagram. 

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/hard-rock-international-and-seminole-gaming-partner-with-ocean-conservancy-for-second-annual-global-sound-waves-program-302617401.html

SOURCE Hard Rock International

–
BGN and XCF Global sign MOU to develop global production, distribution and logistics infrastructure for SAF and other renewable fuels

–
BGN joins International Air Transport Association (IATA) as strategic partner, to drive SAF adoption forward

HOUSTON, Nov. 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — BGN INT US LLC (“BGN”), an independent global energy and commodities group and a market leader in transition fuels has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with XCF Global, Inc. (“XCF”), a Nasdaq-listed leader in advancing the decarbonization of the aviation industry through Sustainable Aviation Fuel (“SAF”),. This planned partnership, based in Houston, will focus on developing and scaling the production, distribution and logistics of SAF and other renewable fuels including renewable naphtha and diesel.

Under the MOU, XCF and BGN intend to collaborate on renewable fuel production, marketing, and distribution for major airline carriers around the world. The framework agreement includes offtake and co-branded distribution agreements, as well as joint development of renewable fuel production capacity. In addition, the proposed strategic partnership seeks to promote the use of XCF’s SAF within industry trade associations and OEM networks, and throughout the customer value chain.

“We are pleased to be partnering with Houston-based XCF in this exciting venture,” said Cenan Ozmeral, President of BGN Int., LLC, based in Houston. “BGN and XCF share a common goal to expand access to renewable fuels and accelerate the decarbonization of the aviation industry. Together, we aim to combine XCF’s scalable production model with BGN’s marketing and distribution network to create a seamless, efficient supply chain from feedstock to finished fuel.

“BGN’s trading strength, risk management expertise, and integrated logistics network, will make SAF adoption practical and commercially viable for airlines seeking to meet tightening decarbonization targets. This is a major step, which we believe will have a significant impact on the aviation industry’s ability to reduce emissions, in one of the hardest-to-abate transport sectors.”

Aligned with this partnership, BGN has joined the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the leading global trade association for the airline industry, deepening its ties with the sector and demonstrating its long-term commitment to being a top-tier supplier of SAF and renewable fuels.

Chris Cooper, Chief Executive Officer of XCF Global, commented:

“This collaboration represents a critical step in expanding the global reach of renewable fuels. Partnering with BGN would enable us to extend our footprint, streamline logistics, and accelerate commercialization on a global scale with a world-class partner, as we prepare to meet surging demand for sustainable aviation fuel.

“This MOU reflects a shared vision to advance a scalable, commercially viable framework for global renewable fuel production and distribution.”

The collaboration underscores both companies’ commitment to building a robust global supply chain at a time when demand for SAF is expanding rapidly. According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), airlines will need approximately 165 billion gallons of SAF annually by 2050 to meet net-zero emission targets. Meeting this demand would require the construction of up to 7,000 new facilities worldwide.

This MOU is non-binding, and execution remains subject to due diligence, technical validation, and final agreements.

About BGN group

BGN is an independent global energy and commodities group and a leader in transition fuels. With over 80 years of experience, we trade, distribute, store and finance energy solutions worldwide, handling about 50 million metric tons annually. We operate across the full value chain through strong partnerships with refineries, producers and state energy companies.

Our agile model delivers reliable, affordable energy while driving decarbonization. We are expanding into renewables, SAF, LNG, ammonia and critical minerals and metals. From hubs in Geneva, Dubai, Singapore and Houston, we serve customers in more than 120 countries.

BGN is driving the energy transition with innovation, sustainability and partnership-led growth.

For more information, visit: https://bgn-int.com/ 

About XCF Global, Inc.

XCF Global, Inc. is a pioneering sustainable aviation fuel company dedicated to accelerating the aviation industry’s transition to net-zero emissions. We develop and operate state-of-the-art SAF production facilities engineered to the highest levels of compliance, reliability, and quality, and is building partnerships across the energy and transportation sectors to scale SAF globally. XCF is listed on the Nasdaq Capital Market and trades under the ticker, SAFX. To learn more, visit www.xcf.global.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/bgn-announces-strategic-mou-with-xcf-global-to-produce-and-supply-sustainable-aviation-fuel-302617326.html

SOURCE BGN

NEW YORK, Nov. 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Public reporting on board director race and ethnicity has seen a big drop across corporate America: From 2024 to 2025, the share of companies disclosing such information declined by 40% in the Russell 3000 and 32% in the S&P 500. That’s according to a new report by The Conference Board.

“Driving the sharp reversal in standardized reporting is the 2024 court decision striking down Nasdaq’s board diversity disclosure rule, as well as a broader shift away from public DEI commitments amid mounting legal and political challenges. This pullback raises questions about the durability of recent gains in board diversity,” said Andrew Jones, Principal Researcher at The Conference Board and coauthor of the report.

When it comes to gender diversity, the report finds that women’s representation on boards has reached record levels—but momentum is slowing. From 2022 to 2025, the share of newly appointed women directors declined by 9% in the Russell 3000 and 7% in the S&P 500.

The study was produced with ESGAUGE, Russell Reynolds Associates, KPMG, and The John L. Weinberg Center for Corporate Governance at the University of Delaware.

Director Racial and Ethnic Diversity


Transparency plummets: More companies stop disclosing data on director race and ethnicity.

• Russell 3000: From 2024 to 2025, the share of companies providing any disclosure on directors’ racial or ethnic backgrounds—either at the aggregate or individual level—dropped from 85% to 45%.
  • Longer-term view: In 2022, disclosure was already high at 80%.
• S&P 500: The share dropped from 98% to 66%.
  • Longer-term view: In 2022, disclosure was 95%.

Director Gender Diversity


New appointments of women directors are declining, notwithstanding record representation overall.

• Russell 3000: From 2022 to 2025, the share of newly elected women directors fell from 42% to 33%.
• S&P 500: Share of newly elected women directors fell from 43% to 36%.
• Understanding the numbers: In a shifting environment for corporate diversity efforts and goals, some boards may also be prioritizing technical expertise or risk management experience over demographic diversification.

Director Age


Amid volatility, boards are prioritizing retention and continuity over refreshment.

• Directors under 55: Representation is stagnant or declining across both indices.
• Directors aged 56–60: About 16% of directors in both indices, down from 19% in 2020.
• Directors aged 61–65: Remain stable at roughly about a quarter in both indices.
• Directors aged 66–70: Grew from 19% in 2021 to 22% in 2025 in the Russell 3000 and from 22% to 26% in the S&P 500.
• Understanding the numbers: “This gradual upward shift may indicate that boards are more explicitly valuing experience and institutional continuity during a period of heightened geopolitical, regulatory, and market uncertainty. While older boards may offer steadier oversight and institutional knowledge, the trend raises questions about succession planning, refreshment cadence, and the cultivation of a diverse pipeline of directors,” said Brian Campbell, Leader of The Conference Board Governance & Sustainability Center.

Mandatory retirement policies lose ground as boards favor flexibility over fixed age caps.

• Russell 3000: From 2021 to 2025, the share of companies with mandatory retirement ages (typically 75 years) decreased from 38% to 36%.
• S&P 500: Share decreased from 67% to 62%.
• Understanding the numbers: “This trend suggests that more boards may be relying on evaluation-driven assessments of director performance rather than rigid age thresholds to guide turnover. It may also reflect greater comfort with older, more seasoned directors, whose experience is seen as valuable in a period of complex risk oversight and leadership transition,” said Annalisa Barrett, Senior Advisor, KPMG Board Leadership Center.

Director Skills and Qualifications


Reported board expertise is shifting toward tech, cyber, and human capital—and away from traditional areas like strategy and, to a lesser degree, law.

• Technology: From 2021 to 2025, disclosed tech expertise rose from 15% to 30% in the Russell 3000 and from 20% to 44% in the S&P 500.
• Cybersecurity: Grew from 8% to 17% in the Russell 3000 and from 15% to 27% in the S&P 500.
• Human capital: Increased from 17% to 28% in the Russell 3000 and from 25% to 40% in the S&P 500.
• Strategy: Dropped from 57% to 53% in the Russell 3000 and from 60% to 55% in the S&P 500.
• Law expertise: Dropped from 7% to 5% in the Russell 3000 and from 5% to 2% in the S&P 500.
• Understanding the numbers: “Boards are clearly embracing rising expertise in technology and cybersecurity, with AI likely to follow—though it’s striking that few directors yet claim that skill. The growth in human capital expertise seems tied to the ESG wave, which may have crested. Strategy remains dominant by a wide margin, and while the decline in legal expertise likely reflects a deregulatory perception, that may prove transient. Overall, the data suggest a selective appetite for specialization—alongside enduring confidence in the business-judgment generalist,” said Lawrence A. Cunningham, Presiding Director of The John L. Weinberg Center for Corporate Governance at the University of Delaware.

Director Turnover


Companies steady the ship by reining in board refreshment.

• Russell 3000: From 2022 to 2025, the share of new directors (as a percentage of all elected directors) declined from 13.3% to 8.6%.
• S&P 500: Share of new directors slightly dropped from 8.8% to 8.6%.
• Understanding the numbers: “The 2022 spike in the Russell 3000 reflected a deliberate wave of renewal, as companies diversified board composition and added expertise in digital, human capital, and ESG areas. The current slowdown suggests boards are consolidating those gains—either satisfied with their mix or seeking stability amid political and market uncertainty. The S&P 500 shows a similar, steadier pattern, with fewer new appointments since a 2021 peak,” said Umesh Chandra Tiwari, Executive Director at ESGAUGE.

Director Overboarding Policies


Overboarding policies gain momentum, with double-digit increases in both indices.

• Russell 3000: From 2020 to 2025, overboarding policies—which limit the number of boards a director may serve on—grew from 44% to 56%.
• S&P 500: Grew from 68% to 85%.
• Understanding the numbers: “Among companies with formal limits, the prevailing standard allows service on a total of four public company boards, including the home board. Firms in more complex or regulated sectors—such as financials, utilities, and materials—often adopt stricter caps, reflecting heavier oversight demands,” said Richard Fields, Head of the Board Effectiveness Practice at Russell Reynolds Associates.

About the study: Beyond board diversity, the study examines broader governance trends over time—including board composition, expertise, refreshment practices, and governance standards. Findings are based on proxy statements (DEF 14A) and public disclosures (Forms 10-K and 8-K) from Russell 3000 and S&P 500 companies filed through October 10, 2025.

About The Conference Board
The Conference Board is the member-driven think tank that delivers Trusted Insights for What’s Ahead®. Founded in 1916, we are a non-partisan, not-for-profit entity holding 501 (c) (3) tax-exempt status in the United States. TCB.org 

About ESGAUGE
ESGAUGE is a data mining and analytics firm uniquely designed for the corporate practitioner and the professional service firm seeking customized information on US public companies. It focuses on disclosure of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices such as executive and director compensation, board practices, CEO and NEO profiles, proxy voting and shareholder activism, and CSR/sustainability disclosure. Our clients include business corporations, asset management firms, compensation consultants, law firms, accounting and audit firms, and investment companies. We also partner on research projects with think tanks, academic institutions, and the media. www.esgauge.com

About the KPMG Board Leadership Center
The KPMG Board Leadership Center (BLC) champions outstanding corporate governance to drive long-term value and enhance stakeholder confidence. Through an array of insights, perspectives, and programs, the BLC promotes continuous education and improvement of public and private company governance. BLC engages with directors and business leaders on the critical issues driving board agendas—from strategy, risk, talent, and sustainability to data governance, artificial intelligence, audit quality, proxy trends, and more. Learn more at kpmg.com/blc.

About Russell Reynolds Associates
Russell Reynolds Associates is a global leadership advisory firm. Our 500+ consultants in 47 offices work with public, private, and nonprofit organizations across all industries and regions. We help our clients build teams of transformational leaders who can meet today’s challenges and anticipate the digital, economic, sustainability, and political trends that are reshaping the global business environment. From helping boards with their structure, culture, and effectiveness to identifying, assessing and defining the best leadership for organizations, our teams bring their decades of expertise to help clients address their most complex leadership issues. We exist to improve the way the world is led. www.russellreynolds.com

About The Weinberg Center for Corporate Governance
The University of Delaware’s John L. Weinberg Center for Corporate Governance is among the longest-standing academic programs in its field, providing thought leadership through research, public programs, and advisory work. It was founded as the brainchild of Delaware Chancellor William T. Allen, its intellectual founder, and John L. Weinberg, longtime Chairman of Goldman Sachs, who was an early lead benefactor. Based in Delaware—the legal home of most US public companies—the Center offers a neutral forum for dialogue among corporate directors, investors, executives, scholars, and policymakers. Learn more at www.weinberg.udel.edu

 

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/report-at-big-companies-board-diversity-disclosure-falls-by-over-30-302616674.html

SOURCE The Conference Board

District builds on its record of innovation and efficiency across school operations

AURORA, Ill., Nov. 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — West Aurora School District 129 (SD129) today introduced 27 all-electric Blue Bird school buses, now the largest electric school bus fleet operating in the Chicago region. The fleet will reduce emissions in the community, lower operating costs, and provide a quieter, more comfortable experience for students and drivers alike. The initiative reflects West Aurora’s ongoing leadership in improving operational efficiency and environmental performance across its schools, including investments in solar energy, building upgrades, and waste reduction efforts.

The district partnered with Highland Electric Fleets, North America’s leading provider of Electrification-as-a-Service (EaaS), to support the transition. Highland managed vehicle procurement, charger installation, and long-term fleet services to ensure reliable daily operations. The fleet is powered by 14 Zerova 60kW chargers, providing flexible charging capacity to meet route demands and support future fleet growth.

Funding for the initiative includes nearly $5 million from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Clean School Bus Program and additional incentives from ComEd, which provided $450,000 in vehicle rebates and approximately $480,000 in make-ready support to prepare charging infrastructure.

“West Aurora is proud to strengthen our commitment to our schools and community by adding electric buses to our sustainability efforts,” said Dr. Angie Smith, SD129 Associate Superintendent of Operations. “We continue to work to find ways to provide a healthier environment for our students and families, while also achieving savings for our taxpayers. We hope to be able to demonstrate to other districts that electrification of even a portion of your fleet can make a difference that we can all benefit from.”

Project partners include Central States Bus Sales, which supplied the Blue Bird buses; ComEd, the district’s utility partner, in addition to providing financial support; and Grand Kahn Electric, which led installation of the charging equipment.

“ComEd is proud to fund electrification projects like West Aurora School District 129’s and hundreds of others across the region as our customers and communities take steps toward a lower carbon future,” said Gil Quiniones, President and CEO of ComEd. “EV rebates are helping reduce the upfront costs while also bringing us closer to achieving the state’s energy and climate goals.”

“West Aurora’s leadership is evident across everything they do, from energy efficiency to waste reduction and now transportation,” said Joshua Williams, Senior Midwestern Regional Manager at Highland Electric Fleets. “They’re showing what it looks like when a district turns long-term commitments into measurable progress for students and the community.”

A ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating the launch will take place at 10:30 am on 11/17/25 at 220 Alder Dr., North Aurora, IL 60542. Media and community members are invited to attend.

About West Aurora School District 129
West Aurora School District 129 is a vibrant community in the western suburbs of Chicago, serving learners in and around Aurora—the state’s second-largest city. Rich in cultural diversity and school pride, the district honors long-standing traditions while embracing innovation, equity, and opportunity. Guided by dedicated educators and a shared commitment to curiosity, inclusivity, and excellence, West Aurora provides each student with a unique educational journey that fosters both academic and personal growth.

About Highland Electric Fleets
Highland Electric Fleets is North America’s leading provider of Electrification-as-a-Service. Founded in 2019, Highland partners with school districts, municipalities, and fleet operators to make the transition to electric fleets simple and affordable. Highland proudly serves as the Official Electric School Bus Provider of the LA28 Olympic and Paralympic Games and Team USA. From pioneering vehicle-to-grid technology to managing some of the nation’s largest electric school bus fleets, Highland delivers reliable, cost-effective solutions that support local communities and drive the future of transportation. Learn more at www.highlandfleets.com.

Media Contacts

West Aurora USD 129
Anna C. Gonzales
Director of Community Affairs
West Aurora School District 129
630-301-5044
agonzales@sd129.org

Highland Electric Fleets
Chris Orlando
Chris.Orlando@highlandfleets.com
508-568-9802

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/west-aurora-school-district-129-launches-27-electric-school-buses-the-largest-fleet-in-the-chicago-area-302616441.html

SOURCE Highland Electric Fleets

Modern visual expression honors consulting company’s core values and history in balance with dynamic, multi-service, global expansion

NEW YORK, Nov. 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — DeSimone today unveiled a new visual expression of its brand, honoring the core values that have underpinned the firm’s success while expressing the dynamic global growth and expansion of services that have marked its strategic evolution in recent years. The company has also introduced a new tagline and launched a new website at a new URL: desimone.com.

The global consulting firm, known for redefining urban skylines with the structural design of exceptional tall buildings around the world, has officially shed its previous wordmark. In its stead, a distinctive, contemporary visual expression firmly embraces the company’s roots, while more fully amplifying and aligning with DeSimone’s distinguishing brand attributes, services, and core values.

The evolved wordmark captures DeSimone’s longstanding reputation for trusted and personal client service, innovative structural engineering, technical excellence, and commitment to relationships. But it also expresses and affirms DeSimone’s forward- looking vision, creative agility and autonomy, tenacity in problem-solving, and focus on leveraging its interdisciplinary services and technical intelligence for the betterment of humanity.

“From the first set of drawings we stamped as our own in 1969, we have continually evolved to better serve our clients,” said Stephen V. DeSimone, CEO and Chairman of DeSimone Consulting Engineering. “Today, we acknowledge that evolution with a fresh, updated expression of our visual identity, a modern, bespoke wordmark that fully conveys DeSimone’s creativity, relentless drive to problem-solve and innovate, robust array of integrated services, and longstanding focus on fostering caring, meaningful human relationships.”

The design of the new wordmark, by Pentagram, features a bespoke, mixed-case composition of uniquely drawn and finely constructed letterforms that balance modernity with approachability, and bold expression with timeless formality. The solid, confident framework of the composition and the individual rectilinear elements of the letter interiors reference structural beams and columns, alluding to DeSimone’s historical focus on structural engineering—and symbolizing the strength of human connections the company so values. The subtle, refined articulation of the letter’s angular serifs reflects the level of attentiveness DeSimone offers its clients.

A new tagline, “Bridging science and humanity” has been introduced alongside the new visual identity, emphasizing one of DeSimone’s most valued core beliefs—that everything the firm does employs science and technical expertise in the service of humanity—often by collaborating with owners and architects to create the buildings in which we live, work, and play.

The tagline was inspired by the words of company founder Vincent J. DeSimone, who wrote, “We realize that our profession is a bridge between science and the humanities…and that technical ability is sterile when not applied to human betterment. We recognize that to be truly effective, we have to practice our profession with meeting our architectural and corporate clients’ non-technical needs, such as communication, sensitivity to architectural design, and fostering of human relationships.”

DeSimone’s focus on continual evolution to meet the demands of technological advancement, sustainability, and client and user needs has involved an expansion of the company’s services beyond structural engineering to include façade and building envelope consulting, vertical transportation, detailing and fabrication-ready modeling, wind engineering and vibrational analysis, forensics, project advisory, and other services.

About DeSimone: Founded in New York City in 1969, DeSimone provides structural engineering, façade and building envelope consulting, vertical transportation consulting, forensics, detailing, fabrication-ready modeling (FRM), project controls, dispute resolution, and expert witness services across building types. Known globally for delivering thoughtful, innovative, and sustainable solutions to clients around the world, the firm places a premium on providing trusted, dedicated service from offices in the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, South America, and the Middle East. In 2025, DeSimone was named a Top Workplace by USA Today, a Miami Best Place to Work by the Miami Herald, a South Florida Top Workplace by the Sun Sentinel, a Best Place to Work by the Sunday Times of London, a NYC Top Workplace by amNY Metro, and a NYC Best Place to Work by Crain’s New York. www.desimone.com

Media Contact: Shea Communications, LLC
Linda O’Flanagan, George Shea: 212-627-5761
Linda@sheacommunications.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/desimone-unveils-evolved-brand-identity-302616864.html

SOURCE DeSimone

PORT WASHINGTON, N.Y., Nov. 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Autel U.S., a leading developer, manufacturer, and distributor of professional automotive diagnostic tools and equipment, is proud to announce the five recipients of its first Autel Awarding Excellence Scholarships.

The $25,000 scholarship program, part of Autel Cares—the company’s philanthropic initiative—was created to recognize and support outstanding students pursuing careers in automotive repair and service. Each recipient will receive a $5,000 award to help further their education and training in the automotive trades.

This year’s recipients are:

• Cristian “Brady” Martins, of Parker, CO, attending McPherson College, KS – pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Automotive Restoration Technology
• Carter Kitts, of Zelienople, PA, attending Rosedale Technical College, PA – studying Automotive Technology and Auto Body & Collision Repair
• Mason Kleinfelder, of Homewood, IL, attending Southern Illinois University–Carbondale, IL – pursuing a bachelor’s degree in automotive technology
• Isabella McDonald, of Savage, PA, attending Universal Technical Institute of Pennsylvania – studying Automotive and Mechanical Repair Technologies
• Rafael Luna, of Lewisville, TX, attending Collin College, TX – pursuing an Associate of Applied Science in Collision Repair Technology

Representing students from across the country and multiple automotive service and repair disciplines—including mechanical repair, restoration, and automotive and collision repair technology, —this year’s winners reflect the diversity, skill, and dedication driving the future of the automotive industry. Each student demonstrates exceptional passion, drive, and commitment to advancing their technical skills and contributing to the future of automotive repair.

“These remarkable students represent the best of what’s ahead for our industry,” said Chloe Hung, CEO of Autel U.S. “Through their stories, we see not only technical skill but also the curiosity, perseverance, and pride that define great technicians. Supporting their education through the Autel Awarding Excellence Scholarships is an investment in the next generation of automotive excellence—an investment Autel is proud to make. We look forward to following all the good work these young people will achieve in the industry and in their communities.”

Launched this summer, Autel Cares reflects the company’s commitment to giving back to its community and the industry that helped it grow. Along with the annual Autel Awarding Excellence Scholarships, the initiative includes a partnership with Share Our Strength in support of its No Kid Hungry campaign, dedicated to ending childhood hunger in America—where an estimated 1 in 5 children live with hunger. Through this effort, Autel is donating $100 for each MaxiSYS Ultra S2 automotive diagnostics tablet sold from September through December 31, 2025, with a maximum donation of $50,000. Autel makes this contribution on behalf of its Ultra S2 tablet purchasers. The initiative also includes Autel Inspires, a program that will provide free or discounted diagnostic tools and software to underfunded automotive education programs across North America. Autel plans to make an exciting announcement regarding this program next month.

To learn more about our first Autel Awarding Excellence Scholarships winners.

About Autel U.S.:
Autel is a leading developer, manufacturer and distributor of professional automotive diagnostic tools, equipment and accessories. Autel is committed to producing leading edge tools providing customers worldwide with enduring value and superior technology.

CONTACT: Allison Whitney, Allisonw@Autel.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/autel-us-announces-first-recipients-of-the-autel-awarding-excellence-scholarships-302616124.html

SOURCE Autel U.S.

New habitat marks a historical moment for animal care and innovative habitat design

SAN ANTONIO, Nov. 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — For the first time in over 30 years, San Antonio Zoo is welcoming back gorillas with the newest, tallest, wildest, greatest gorilla habitat, Congo Falls.

Opening to the public on Saturday, Dec. 13, Congo Falls marks a significant milestone in San Antonio Zoo’s 111-year history. The world-class habitat sets the stage for a transformative new era in habitat design, wildlife conservation, education, and animal care.

At Congo Falls, guests will immerse themselves into a two-acre lush environment, featuring three distinct habitats (Lowland Basin, Indoor Rainforest and Gorilla Gorge), which will be home to seven Western Lowland gorillas. The habitats will blend lush natural landscapes, dynamic water features, enrichment areas and expansive viewing opportunities for both guests and gorillas, to foster a deeper connection between guests and these incredible animals.

A highlight of the habitat is The Mays Family Silverback Peak, the tallest gorilla tower in the world at more than 70 feet, offering gorillas unobstructed views of the city skyline. In addition, during construction of Congo Falls, an unexpected historical discovery was made; limestone was unearthed from the very quarry that supplied stone for the construction of The Alamo more than 300 years ago. This remarkable find deepens the connection between San Antonio Zoo and the city’s rich heritage, blending the legacy of the past with a bold vision for the future of conservation.

The grand opening celebration of Congo Falls will continue into the night with a 15-minute drone show at 8:00 p.m. Hundreds of luminous drones will paint the sky in a dazzling tribute to gorillas, conservation, and a spirit of adventure. This experience is FREE for Zoo members and included with admission.

Experience a part of history at San Antonio Zoo’s Congo Falls. Learn more at sazoo.org/congo-falls

“Congo Falls is more than an attraction, it’s a testament of our commitment to secure a future for wildlife,” said Tim Morrow, President and CEO of San Antonio Zoo. “The world-class habitat will allow guests to connect with gorillas like never before, providing an experience that inspires awe, curiosity, and a deeper appreciation for these remarkable species. Congo Falls is labor of love and a historic moment not just for our zoo, but for conservation efforts across the globe.”

Congo Falls represents San Antonio Zoo’s deep commitment to the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ (AZA) Species Survival Plan® (SSP) and SAFE: Saving Animals from Extinction® programs, global initiatives uniting accredited zoos in the shared goal of protecting wildlife and preserving biodiversity.

Through these programs, San Antonio Zoo collaborates with leading conservation partners including the Gorilla Rehabilitation and Conservation Education Center (GRACE) in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, and the AZA Gorilla SAFE program. Together, these organizations work to ensure genetically diverse, sustainable populations of gorillas, while advancing education, habitat protection, and animal care innovation.

In honor of Congo Falls and ongoing conservation efforts, San Antonio Zoo will also debut a new podcast, Edge of the Earth: Tales of Conservation, featuring host Dr. Danté Fenolio, Vice President of the Center for Conservation & Research at San Antonio Zoo, and his daughter, Sierra Fenolio.

The podcast will explore the science and stories behind wildlife conservation, connecting the zoo’s local mission to global efforts to secure a future for wildlife. Episodes will be available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Audible, and YouTube.

About San Antonio Zoo

San Antonio Zoo^®, operating since 1914, is a nonprofit zoological facility committed to securing a future for wildlife. Through its passion and expertise in animal care, conservation, and education, the zoo’s mission is to inspire its community to love, engage with, act for and protect animals and the places they live. The zoo welcomes more than a million visitors each year and is open year-round. San Antonio Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, the Zoological Association of America, the American Animal Hospital Association, and Humane Certified by American Humane. Learn more at www.sazoo.org

Press Release Media Contact: 
Hope Roth 
hope.roth@sazoo.org
(210) 862-9533

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/a-world-first-look-at-congo-falls-americas-new-landmark-gorilla-habitat-opens-at-san-antonio-zoo-302616630.html

SOURCE San Antonio Zoo

Donate at redcross.org to support disaster survivors, hospital patients and military families

WASHINGTON, Nov. 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — As disasters surged across the U.S. in 2025, community responders became a lifeline for thousands needing shelter, food and emotional support.

In a powerful display of humanity, volunteers — who make up 90% of the American Red Cross workforce — joined forces with community partners to care for families overwhelmed by the most destructive winter wildfires in California, devastating flooding in Alaska, increased tornadoes across the Midwest, and severe storms and flash floods nationwide. Thanks to donor support, the Red Cross also put over $130 million directly into the hands of tens of thousands of households, helping families rebuild their lives after this year’s disasters and last year’s hurricanes Helene and Milton.

This financial assistance also extended to people recovering from home fires — which spike nearly 20% during the holidays, when cooking and heating fire risks are higher. In a typical November and December, some 40,000 people nationwide rely on the Red Cross after home fires, accounting for 1 in 5 home fire survivors helped year-round.

“Emergencies don’t take a holiday — and neither does the Red Cross. Every day, with the support of generous donors, our volunteers bring comfort, hope and lifesaving help to people facing their hardest moments,” said Trevor Riggen, president of Red Cross Humanitarian Services. “This season reminds us what truly matters: caring for one another. Whether it’s responding to disasters, providing blood for patients, supporting military families or teaching lifesaving skills, these everyday heroes step up to help strangers in need. Together, we show the power of compassion and community — and that’s the greatest gift of all.”

This GivingTuesday and holiday season, visit
 redcross.org to make a financial donation or schedule a blood donation. You can also volunteer to give the gift of time. 

Watch this video to hear from some of the families we helped in 2025.

More from 2025: How People Helped Hospital Patients, Military Families and Global Communities

• Saved the lives of patients relying on donated blood for survival. Every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood — from trauma patients and moms welcoming newborns to individuals battling cancer and sickle cell disease. Over the past year, nearly 500,000 first-time blood donors transformed lives by joining our dedicated national blood donor community, proving that extraordinary impact can come from an ordinary act of generosity.
   
• Provided a touch of home for deployed service members on over 380 U.S. military installation and deployment sites worldwide. Volunteers who deliver Red Cross morale and respite programs are often active-duty members looking to build community away from home, along with Red Cross staff who deploy overseas for months and, in some cases, years. Deployed staff are also a critical link to connect service members with their loved ones during family crises through the 24/7 Red Cross Hero Care Network.
   
• Expanded training programs to empower more people with lifesaving skills, such as CPR, first aid and water safety. This included growing our free Longfellow’s WHALE Tales water safety program for Spanish-speaking families and launching revitalized national Babysitter’s Training and new Neonatal Advanced Life Support courses. Access to lifesaving training helps make communities safer — in 2025, over 260 people received a National Lifesaving Award for helping to save over 150 lives with Red Cross skills.
   
• Helped local families prepare for and recover from major disasters and crises in over 35 countries. As part of the world’s largest humanitarian network, the American Red Cross supports international responses when global Red Cross and Red Crescent teams request its help, such as after Hurricane Melissa this fall and the earthquake in Myanmar earlier this year. All told, the American Red Cross supported response efforts in 23 countries by providing over $16 million in aid and 13 disaster specialists this year. In addition, the American Red Cross helped global Red Cross teams prepare communities for extreme disasters in 14 countries, including Guatemala, Indonesia and Palau.

About GivingTuesday:


GivingTuesday is an annual event dedicated to boosting radical generosity, held on the Tuesday after Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Created in 2012 at New York’s 92nd Street Y, the idea behind GivingTuesday was to set aside a single day to give back. Over 13 years, this idea has grown into a global movement that inspires millions of people to donate, volunteer and spread awareness. For many nonprofits, funds raised on GivingTuesday serve as an important kickoff for year-end charitable campaigns.

About Our Corporate Holiday Supporters:


The Red Cross is grateful for corporate partners who contribute to our Holiday Campaign. They include our national 2025 partners
Choice Hotels, Circle K, Citi and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Thanks to the generosity of these and other supporters, the Red Cross is able to bring help and hope to people across the country. To learn more about our corporate holiday supporters, visit redcross.org/HolidayPartners.

About the American Red Cross:


The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit

redcross.org

 or

CruzRojaAmericana.org

, or follow us on social media.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/red-cross-community-responders-provide-lifeline-amid-2025-emergencies-302616159.html

SOURCE American Red Cross

Landmark mixed-use community in Riyadh’s Granada District will include 2,500 residential units, hotel, retail, lifestyle, and office spaces — expanding Liwan’s portfolio of vibrant, sustainable communities.

Project Highlights:

• Value: SAR 4.5 billion
• Location: Granada District, Riyadh
• Built-up area: Approximately 600,000 sqm across a 151,308 sqm site
• Residential units: Approximately 2,500+ (studios, 1–3 bedrooms, penthouses, townhouses, villas)
• Amenities: Hotel, offices, retail, F&B, mosque, landscaped open areas

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, Nov. 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Leading Riyadh-based mixed-use developer, Liwan Real Estate Development has announced Liwan Najd, a SAR 4.5 billion, 2,500-unit mixed-use development next to Al Yarmuk Metro Station in Riyadh’s Granada District, on the opening day of Cityscape Global 2025. The project expands Liwan’s growing portfolio of sustainable communities and supports the Kingdom’s commitment to Vision 2030’s housing and urban development goals.

Now at the design stage, Liwan Najd will be one of the largest Saudi mixed-use real estate projects to date. Spanning 151,308 sqm with a built-up area of 600,000 sqm, Liwan Najd features approximately 2,500 residential units across studios, apartments, penthouses, townhouses, and villas. The project also integrates a hotel, offices, F&B, retail, and a mosque, with more than 60% of its footprint dedicated to open and landscaped areas that promote wellbeing and community life.

With a total value of SAR 4.5bn, Liwan Najd represents a strong opportunity in one of Riyadh’s highest-growth districts, supported by robust housing demand and expanding infrastructure. Its strategic location along Alhasan Ibn Hussein Ibn Ali Boulevard, near transport corridors and employment centers, ensures long-term value and sustainable returns for investors and residents alike.

Blending Najdi architectural traditions with modern design principles, Liwan Najd emphasizes walkability, inclusivity, and accessibility. The result is a cohesive urban environment that encourages active living, social connection, and wellbeing.

“Liwan Najd reflects our vision for the future of Saudi urban living,” said Abdulrahman bin Saud Aldhyem, CEO of Liwan Real Estate Development. “It’s where heritage and modernity meet, and where sustainable communities generate long-term value for residents and investors. We are especially proud to be unveiling this milestone at Cityscape Global 2025, which showcases the very best the Kingdom has to offer.”

Riyadh’s real estate market continues to expand, with housing transactions exceeding SAR 120bn in H1 2025 (Knight Frank) and a growing investor appetite for integrated, mixed-use developments that combine livability with long-term value. Liwan Najd directly responds to this trend, setting a new benchmark for communities that bring people, culture, and commerce together.

The announcement at Cityscape Global 2025 highlights Liwan’s role in the next phase of Riyadh’s transformation into a global business and lifestyle hub. With the city’s population projected to surpass 10 million by 2030, demand for lifestyle-driven, community-led developments like Liwan Najd continues to rise.

Livein Liwan, the company’s 616-unit development on King Abdullah Road, has also recently reached 50% construction completion, underscoring the company’s delivery momentum and alignment with Vision 2030’s housing goals. Together with its broader pipeline, Liwan aims to deliver 10,000 homes that foster community, attract investment, and define Riyadh’s next era of livability.

“Liwan Najd is more than a real estate project – it’s a statement about how Saudi cities are evolving,” added Mr. Aldhyem. “By aligning investment opportunity with sustainable urban growth, we’re creating destinations that deliver both community value and long-term growth.”

About Liwan Real Estate Development

Liwan Real Estate Development is a Riyadh-based Saudi developer dedicated to creating mixed-use projects where people live, work, connect, and prosper. Guided by the values of creativity in designing and developing urban projects that enriches the customer experience, it integrates Saudi heritage with modern design to deliver landmark destinations that enhance the Kingdom’s urban quality of life and help deliver Vision 2030’s transformative housing targets.

Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2824644/Liwan_Image_1.jpg
Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2824645/Liwan_Image_2.jpg

 

 

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/liwan-real-estate-development-unveils-sar-4-5bn-liwan-najd-its-largest-project-to-date-at-cityscape-global-2025–302617018.html

SOURCE Liwan Real Estate Development

Debt.com’s annual awards recognize top creators bringing authenticity, diversity, and accessibility to digital finance space.

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., Nov. 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Debt.com is proud to announce the winners of the newly rebranded and reimagined 2025 Annual FinTalk Awards, honoring social media’s financial content creators.

Over the past few months, the FinTalk Awards team carefully selected standout creators whose work exemplifies excellence in financial education. These nominees were handpicked based on their authenticity, consistency, and impact — from helping their communities tackle debt, to empowering others with budgeting tools and financial confidence. Once the nominees were announced, the public cast thousands of votes to support their favorite creators across five core categories.

These outstanding educators are transforming how people learn, talk, and think about money:

• Nika Booth, Best Reel Money Creator – @DebtFreeGonnaBe
• Chelsea Fagan, Best YouTube Finance Creator – The Financial Diet
• Rey Martinez, Best Hispanic Creator – @Finanzasconrey
• Ashley Lee, Best MoneyTok Influencer – @HerMoneyMastery
• Paula Pant, Best Podcast or Audio Series – Afford Anything

“Financial education isn’t just about numbers — it’s about access, trust, and relatability,” says Don Silvestri, President of Debt.com. “The FinTalk Awards honor creators who make money conversations inclusive, understandable, and empowering. These winners are reaching people where they are — and changing lives with every post, episode, and video.”

Interviews with each winner revealed a shared mission: helping audiences build long-term financial stability through authentic, relatable content.

Best Reel Money Creator, Nika Booth, documents paying down her debt on Instagram Reels. She has a knack for decoding complex student loan forgiveness news. When a 2018 government shutdown cut her income, Nika launched Debt Free Gonnabe. Nika says some people can budget their way out of debt, but that wasn’t her story. Debt Free Gonnabe reflects her journey: ongoing, imperfect, and always evolving. “Debt Free Gonnabe has taken me places that my full-time job hasn’t and I love it.”

Chelsea Fagan won Best YouTube Creator. As CEO of The Financial Diet, Chelsea promotes a sustainable, realistic approach to money management and she puts her money where her mouth is. “When you think about food diets, the only thing that is actually sustainable is something truly healthy that you can do forever,” she says. “The same is true of money. The only thing that’s going to work is something that you can keep doing long term.”

Best Hispanic Creator, Rey Martinez, originally trained as a civil engineer. Rey turned his analytical skills toward tackling his personal debt of $160,000 first, then his community’s. He began teaching free classes before bringing his message to TikTok during the pandemic. “Most people know how to make money,” he says, “but they don’t know how to manage it.”

Ashley Lee, Best MoneyTok Influencer, has more than half a million followers and has built a platform focused on simplicity and calm in the chaos of financial stress. “The financial confusion, overwhelm, and stress stops now,” she says.

Paula Pant, Best Podcast or Audio Series winner calls herself a “writer and instigator.” Paula launched her website and podcast with one basic concept: “You can afford anything, but not everything.” Her advice is practical, and it’s about making tough decisions. She asks, “how can we align our daily behaviors and habits with the lifestyle we value most?”

Learn more and explore at: www.Debt.com/FinTalk-Awards

About: The FinTalk Awards is an annual initiative by Debt.com that recognizes digital creators who are reshaping financial literacy by using their platforms to educate, uplift, and inform. From debt payoff stories to smart investing tips, these influencers are breaking down complex financial topics and making them accessible to everyone — regardless of background or income.

About: Debt.com is a trusted source for consumers seeking help with credit card debt, student loans, tax debt, credit repair, and more. By connecting people with vetted financial professionals and educational tools, Debt.com empowers Americans to make smart money decisions and regain control of their finances.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/from-tiktok-to-podcasts-2025-fintalk-awards-celebrates-financial-creators-changing-how-america-talks-about-money-302616192.html

SOURCE Debt.com