Tag: PR Newswire

SARABURI, Thailand and ALAMEDA, Calif., Nov. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Today, at a ribbon cutting ceremony at SCG’s cement plant in Saraburi Province, Thailand, Rondo Energy and SCG Cleanergy, a subsidiary of SCG specializing in clean energy solutions, announced the start of operation of Southeast Asia’s first heat battery. 

The heat battery is now delivering 2.3MWth of continuous steam, charged from the grid and a nearby floating solar farm. Superheated steam delivered by the unit drives a steam turbine, generating 24-hour clean electricity used in cement production. 

“Today we’re announcing three big steps in Rondo’s journey,” said Rondo CEO Eric Trusiewicz. “We’re launching our first unit that is part of our new modular sizing approach, our first heat battery in South-East Asia, and the only one worldwide delivering high-pressure steam used for electric power generation.” 

New Modular Platform: Flexible Unit Sizing from MWs to GWs 

The unit unveiled today is a 33 MWh Rondo Heat Battery, the first built on Rondo’s new modular platform. Rondo now offers the Rondo Heat Battery with sizes ranging from 33 MWh to >1GWh, all with a common design, common construction, and common supply chain.

Mass-manufactured brick and wire heating elements are combined and configured to a range of RHB sizes, to meet the specific needs of each customer’s application — from smaller units suited for food and beverage producers, to larger units delivering more than 100 MWth for the needs of the world’s largest chemical plants and metals refineries. 

Rondo’s modular platform combines the benefits of a mass manufactured common core design that delivers certainty for customers and investors, with the ability to configure heat output, steam conditions, storage size, charging rate, and other aspects of the heat battery to deliver maximized project value.

Global Deployment, Local Supply Chains 

The companies announced that Rondo and SCG Cleanergy collaborated to build this unit entirely in Thailand with extensive reliance on local suppliers. The success of the project demonstrates how Rondo’s unique brick-based storage technology can leverage the efficiencies of local supply chains, while achieving the cost and speed advantages of a common, modular design. 

The companies also announced that SCG Cleanergy is now developing clean industrial heat projects powered by Rondo’s technology to serve customers across Southeast Asia. 

This announcement follows Rondo’s recent commissioning in California of the world’s largest industrial heat battery, underscoring the company’s global leadership in the fast-growing electric thermal energy storage (ETES) industry.

Generating Electricity with Heat 

The unit is integrated with the cement plant’s heat recovery system and is the only heat battery worldwide driving a steam turbine. Superheated steam supplied by the unit raises the heat recovery turbine power output.

“This project shows that powering industry with clean energy is not just possible—it’s economical and fast,” said Eric Trusiewicz. “Our team and SCG built this first-of-its-kind system in just eight months. It’s a model for how industry can go electric anywhere in the world.” 

Rondo and SCG’s Strong Partnership 

Rondo and SCG are now scaling manufacturing and deployments to meet surging demand for industrial decarbonization across the world. The companies are proud that Thailand is emerging as a global hub for clean-heat manufacturing. 

“Integrating the Rondo Heat Battery marks a turning point for Southeast Asian industry,” said Attapong Sathitmanothum, CEO of SCG Cleanergy, “because heat-intensive industries like textiles, chemicals, and food processing are growing rapidly here. SCG Cleanergy is bringing SCG’s strengths and new technologies to deliver low-cost clean energy to help our customers across the region decarbonize as they grow, in line with SCG’s vision of Inclusive Green Growth — driving the transformation of industries toward a low-carbon society in collaboration with all sectors, while strengthening business competitiveness to ensure the sustainable growth of businesses, communities, and the environment. This milestone also represents another important step toward achieving SCG’s Net Zero 2050 goal.” 

About SCG

SCG, now in its 112th year, is a leading business conglomerate in ASEAN. With strong resilience and advanced technology, the Company delivers innovative products, services, and solutions that meet diverse needs and adapt to fast-changing markets through its core businesses: Cement and Building Materials, Chemicals (SCGC), and Packaging (SCGP), as well as new businesses such as Clean Energy (SCG Cleanergy). Committed to improving quality of life and a sustainable future, SCG embeds ESG principles across Thailand, ASEAN, and globally, underpinned by trust, transparency, and its purpose of “Inclusive Green Growth.”

Follow us on Website www.scg.com, LinkedIn @SCG, Instagram @scg.officialig and Facebook @ SCGofficialpage.

SCG Cleanergy Co., Ltd., a wholly owned subsidiary of Siam Cement Public Company Limited (SCG), is a leading clean energy provider across ASEAN, specializing in renewable power generation for commercial and industrial sectors and standing out with its Smart Grid system. The company integrates advanced technologies and collaborates with Rondo Energy to develop Southeast Asia’s first Rondo Heat Battery project, enhancing energy efficiency, supporting industrial decarbonization, and driving progress toward SCG’s Net Zero 2050 commitment.

About Rondo:

Rondo is purpose-built for industrial facilities: Rondo Heat Batteries are constructed from proven, durable materials and are designed for seamless integration with existing industrial equipment and processes. Whether deployed as a drop-in replacement for retiring fossil-fueled heating equipment or as a resilient complement to existing systems, Rondo requires no disruptive changes to customers’ operations.

Building on strong momentum, including multiple full industrial-scale heat batteries in deployment globally, Rondo is actively scaling deployment and manufacturing. Rondo currently operates the world’s largest heat battery for industry, a 100 MWh Rondo Heat Battery. Rondo Energy is headquartered in California, with a global team throughout North America, Europe and Australia. Heat batteries are also known in the industry as electric thermal energy storage (ETES), or thermal batteries.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/southeast-asias-first-industrial-heat-battery-now-operating-in-thailand-built-by-rondo-energy-and-scg-302614982.html

SOURCE Rondo Energy

SAN ANTONIO, Nov. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — As part of its six-year Light the Way tradition, Merit Coffee is launching its annual holiday fundraising initiative to support partner nonprofits across Texas.

On Saturday, November 15, Merit Coffee will donate 100% of proceeds from all holiday drinks and holiday drip coffee sold at every café location. Funds raised will directly benefit three community organizations serving vulnerable families across the state: Feed My Sheep SA in San Antonio, United Way for Greater Austin, and Austin Street Center in Dallas.

“Light the Way has become one of the most meaningful things we do as a company,” said Bill Ellis, CEO of Merit Coffee. “Our guests show up year after year with incredible generosity. Every holiday drink purchased helps support the people and communities we care deeply about.”

Each nonprofit partner plays a critical role in meeting the needs of their communities—providing food, shelter, support services, and pathways to long-term stability for individuals and families.

Merit Coffee invites guests to join in the holiday giving spirit by visiting any of its cafés across Texas and making a difference with every cup.
Participating Locations:
All Merit Coffee cafés across Texas, including San Antonio, Austin, and Dallas.
Find your nearest location at meritcoffee.com/locations.

About Merit Coffee
Founded in 2009 in San Antonio, Merit Coffee has grown from a single café and roastery into a beloved Texas brand known for sourcing and serving exceptional coffee. With 13 locations spanning San Antonio, Austin, and Dallas, Merit is committed to providing thoughtfully crafted coffee experiences in warm, welcoming spaces—anchored by a deep focus on community and quality.

Media Contact:

Charlie Paulette
(210) 241-4663
charlie@meritcoffee.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/merit-coffee-donating-100-of-holiday-drink-proceeds-to-support-local-nonprofits-this-season-302615119.html

SOURCE Merit Coffee

SAN ANTONIO, Nov. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — As part of its six-year Light the Way tradition, Merit Coffee is launching its annual holiday fundraising initiative to support partner nonprofits across Texas.

On Saturday, November 15, Merit Coffee will donate 100% of proceeds from all holiday drinks and holiday drip coffee sold at every café location. Funds raised will directly benefit three community organizations serving vulnerable families across the state: Feed My Sheep SA in San Antonio, United Way for Greater Austin, and Austin Street Center in Dallas.

“Light the Way has become one of the most meaningful things we do as a company,” said Bill Ellis, CEO of Merit Coffee. “Our guests show up year after year with incredible generosity. Every holiday drink purchased helps support the people and communities we care deeply about.”

Each nonprofit partner plays a critical role in meeting the needs of their communities—providing food, shelter, support services, and pathways to long-term stability for individuals and families.

Merit Coffee invites guests to join in the holiday giving spirit by visiting any of its cafés across Texas and making a difference with every cup.
Participating Locations:
All Merit Coffee cafés across Texas, including San Antonio, Austin, and Dallas.
Find your nearest location at meritcoffee.com/locations.

About Merit Coffee
Founded in 2009 in San Antonio, Merit Coffee has grown from a single café and roastery into a beloved Texas brand known for sourcing and serving exceptional coffee. With 13 locations spanning San Antonio, Austin, and Dallas, Merit is committed to providing thoughtfully crafted coffee experiences in warm, welcoming spaces—anchored by a deep focus on community and quality.

Media Contact:

Charlie Paulette
(210) 241-4663
charlie@meritcoffee.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/merit-coffee-donating-100-of-holiday-drink-proceeds-to-support-local-nonprofits-this-season-302615119.html

SOURCE Merit Coffee

Los Angeles’ greatest gathering of quality Cabernet Sauvignon

Date: November 20th, 2025

Location: The Peninsula Beverly Hills

Tickets and Information www.STARSofCabernet.com

BEVERLY HILLS, Calif., Nov. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The annual STARS of Cabernet descends upon Los Angeles Thursday, November 20th, 2025! Approximately 40 wineries from around the world will gather at the prestigious Peninsula Hotel Beverly Hills to pour over 120 top tier, ultra-luxury level Cabernet and premium blends. This is Los Angeles’ greatest gathering of quality Cabernet Sauvignon, orchestrated by event producers Ian Blackburn and his Learnaboutwine team.

The STARS event promises to deliver an expert level wine tasting experience of a vast array of Cabernets and blends that are currently on the market, both here in the US and internationally. Famed winemakers, winery owners and executives will appear and present and encourage you to visit them at their amazing venues.

A digital Charity silent auction supporting Children’s Hospital Los Angeles is online and available at STARSofCabernet.com. The auction will close at 8:45 PM, the night of the event, November 20th, 2025. Bidders can participate from anywhere in the world and do not need to attend to win. 501c3 Unite the United Foundation will send the proceeds to Children’ s Hospital Los Angeles and direct the funds to support Children’s Cancer research.

To encourage younger participants – STARS of Cabernet has created a unique under 35 ticket! A special opportunity for the younger generation to engage! 

Ticketed Guests Receive

• The chance to taste over 120 wines valued at over $20,000 from approximately 40 world class wineries!
• Amazing food and service at The Peninsula Beverly Hills
• Participate in an online auction that closes inside of the event.
• Live Entertainment – Comedian and Magician Zach Waldman will be performing throughout the evening.
• All guests will receive a Schott Zwiesel “Forté Claret Goblet,” the official glass sponsor of the 2025 STARS of Cabernet. Yours to use at the event and to take home as a gift.

Ticket options:

 

www.starsofcabernet.com
for tickets and info or visit Learnaboutwine.com

STARS of CABERNET – WINE LIST

Approximately 40 WINERIES showing over 120 wines valued over $20,000

Los Angeles’ greatest gathering of quality Cabernet Sauvignon

1. ALMAVIVA — Puente Alto, Chile

• Almaviva, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2022

2. EPU, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2022

3. CIMENTO — Milton-Freewater AVA, Oregon

• Cimento, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2018
• Cimento, Cabernet Sauvignon, Diamond Mountain District, 2019
• Cimento, Cabernet Sauvignon, Reserve, Napa Valley, 2019

4. BRICOLEUR — Russian River & Fountaingrove

• Kick Ranch, Cabernet Sauvignon, Fountaingrove, 2021
• Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, 2022

5. DALECIO — Sonoma & Napa Valley

• Chardonnay, Platt Vineyard, Sonoma Coast, 2019
• Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, 2018
• Cabernet Sauvignon, Diamond Mountain District, 2019
• Cabernet Sauvignon, Reserve, Napa Valley, 2019

6. DOUBLE DIAMOND — Oakville, Napa Valley

• Cabernet Sauvignon, Oakville, 2019
• Cabernet Sauvignon, Oakville, 2022

7. EVIDENCE — Mt Veeder & Coombsville

• Evidence of the Matter, Mt Veeder Cabernet, 2021
• Evidence of the Matter, Mt Veeder Cabernet, 2022
• Evidence of Divine Intervention, Coombsville, 2021
• Evidence of Divine Intervention, Coombsville, 2022

8. FAIREST CREATURE — Napa Valley

• Three Bet, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2023
• Flow State, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2022
• Perihelios, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2019
• Sine Fine, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2019

9. FAIT-MAIN — Napa Valley & Rutherford

• Beckstoffer Las Piedras Vineyard, 2022
• Tierra Roja Vineyard, 2022

10. FAR NIENTE — Napa Valley & Rutherford

• Chardonnay, Napa Valley, 2023
• Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, 2022
• Bella Union, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, 2022
• Nickel & Nickel, Cabernet Sauvignon, Vaca Vista, Oak Knoll, 2022

11. FORTUNATE SON — Napa Valley

• The Diplomat, Red Blend, Napa, 2021
• The Dreamer, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa, 2021
• The Warrior, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa, 2021
• The Visionary, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa, 2021

12. FORCE & GRACE — Napa Valley

• Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, 2021
• Cabernet Sauvignon, Paso Robles, 2021
• Chardonnay, Carneros, 2023
• Cabernet Sauvignon, Oakville, Napa Valley, 2022

13. GARDEN CREEK — Alexander Valley

• Tesserae, Estate Red Wine, 2018
• Tesserae, Estate Red Wine, 2015
• Chardonnay, Clonal Selection, 2021

14. GELSON’S — Napa Valley

• Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, 2022
• Epicure, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2020
• Reserve, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, 2022
• Epicure Series, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2019

15. KNIGHTS BRIDGE — Knights Valley

• Pont de Chevalier, Sauvignon Blanc, 2022
• Pont de Chevalier, Chardonnay, 2020
• Haggerty Road, Red Blend, 2021
• Cabernet Sauvignon, Knights Valley, 2019

16. LAPOSTOLLE — Apalta, Chile

• Le Rosé, 2024
• Cuvée Alexandre, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2022
• Clos Apalta ‘Le Petit Clos’, Red Blend, 2022
• La Parcelle 8, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2021

17. LITHOLOGY — Napa Valley

• Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, 2021
• Cabernet Sauvignon, Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard, 2021

18. MORAGA BEL AIR — Bel Air, California

• Bordeaux Blend, 2016
• Bordeaux Blend, 2012
• Bordeaux Blend, 2003
• Sauvignon Blanc, 2021

19. MELKA — Knights Valley & Napa Valley

• Mekerra Estate, Proprietary White, Knights Valley, 2019
• CJ, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, 2019
• Métisse Martinez Vineyard, Pritchard Hill, Napa Valley, 2019

20. MOUNT EDEN — Santa Cruz Mountains

• Estate Chardonnay, 2021
• Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, 2019
• Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, 2015
• Domaine Eden, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2019

21. PRIEST RANCH — Eastern Mountains, Napa Valley

• Estate Sauvignon Blanc, 2023
• Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, 2022

22. SNAKE OIL, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2019

23. REMEDY, Red Blend, 2021

24. NINER — Paso Robles, Willow Creek

• Fog Catcher, Estate, 2021
• Cabernet Sauvignon, Heart Hill Vineyard, Estate, 2021
• Cabernet Sauvignon, Estate, Willow Creek & Geneseo, 2021

25. PURSUED BY BEAR — Columbia Valley, Washington

• Bear Cub, Chardonnay, 2024
• Bear Cub, Red Blend, 2022
• Baby Bear, Syrah, 2021

26. REALM CELLARS — Napa Valley

• The Bard, Proprietary Red, 2021
• Cabernet Sauvignon, Houyi Vineyard, 2022
• Cabernet Sauvignon, Moonracer, Stags Leap, 2022

27. ROBERT FOLEY — Napa Valley

• Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, 2018
• Claret, Napa Valley, 2018
• Cabernet Sauvignon, Mt Veeder, 2018

28. ST. SUPERY — Rutherford, Napa Valley

• Cabernet Sauvignon, Estate, 2021
• Élu, Red Bordeaux Blend, 2019
• Merlot, Rutherford Estate Vineyard, 2019
• Sauvignon Blanc, Dollarhide Estate, 2023

29. STONE EDGE — Sonoma County

• Surround, Red Bordeaux Blend
• Cabernet Sauvignon

30. T. BERKLEY — Diamond Mountain District

• Teachworth, Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, 2019
• Big Ranch Vineyard, Cabernet Franc, 2022
• Singing Hills Vineyard, Cabernet Franc, 2022
• Skypine Vineyard, Cabernet Franc, 2022

31. THE SETTING — Napa Valley & Sonoma County

• Sauvignon Blanc, Sonoma County, 2024
• Cabernet Sauvignon, Pearl’s Farm Vineyard, 2021
• Cabernet Sauvignon, Glass Slipper Vineyard, 2022
• Cabernet Sauvignon, Rockpile Ridge, 2021

32. THE MASCOT — Napa Valley

• The Mascot, Napa Valley Red Wine, 2021

33. TAUB FAMILY VINEYARDS — Russian River, Napa Valley

• Chardonnay, Martinelli Vineyard, 2022
• Cabernet Sauvignon, Rutherford, 2019
• Cabernet Sauvignon, Morisoli-Borges Vineyard, 2019
• Sign of the Dove, Cabernet, Beckstoffer Georges III, 2021

34. THE VICE — Napa Valley

• The House, Sauvignon Blanc, 2024
• Torie’s Vineyard, Pinot Noir, Los Carneros, 2024
• The House, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2023
• Coyote Chief, Cabernet Sauvignon, Howell Mountain, 2022

35. TIERRA ROJA — Oakville

• Cabernet Sauvignon, Oakville, 2022

36. WILLIAMS SELYEM — Russian River Valley

• Cabernet Sauvignon, Beckstoffer Georges III, 2022
• Cabernet Sauvignon, Missouri Hopper, 2022

37. VENGE — Napa Valley

• Family Reserve, Cabernet Sauvignon, Oakville, 2021
• Beckstoffer Missouri Hopper, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2021
• Igneous, Cabernet Sauvignon, Kenefick Ranch, Calistoga, 2022
• Bone Ash Vineyard, Cabernet Sauvignon, Calistoga Estate, 2022

38-42. WINES OF ARGENTINA —

• Belhara Estate
  • Single Vineyard, 2022
  • Alma de Uco, 2023
  • Single Lot, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2023
  • Single Vineyard, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2022
• Doña Paula
  • Altitude Series 1050, 2022
  • Altitude Series 1350, 2021
  • Altitude Series 1100, 2021
  • Estate, Sauvignon Blanc, 2022
• Kaiken
  • Disobedience, 2020
  • Mai, 2021
  • Ultra, Chardonnay, 2022
  • Ultra, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2020
• Susana Balbo
  • Signature Cabernet, 2022
  • Brioso, Red Blend, 2022
  • Brioso, White Blend, 2024
  • Crios, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2021
• Trapiche
  • Medalla, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2021
  • Terroir Series Laborde, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2021
  • Terroir Series Las Piedras, Chardonnay, 2021

Location: THE PENINSULA HOTEL

9882 South Santa Monica Boulevard
Beverly Hills, CA 90212

The Peninsula Beverly Hills offers 195 guest rooms, including 38 suites and 18 private villas, nestled among lush tropical gardens in the heart of Beverly Hills. Voted as the #1 City Hotel in Los Angeles for 2021 by the readers of Travel + Leisure, The Peninsula Beverly Hills is located at the intersection of Wilshire and South Santa Monica Boulevards, within easy walking distance of Century City and Beverly Hills’ legendary Rodeo Drive.

About LearnAboutWine.com

Established in 1995 as Los Angeles’ Source for Wine Education and Events. The extensive calendar lists classes, tastings, dinners, travel experiences, and world class wine tastings such as the STARS of Cabernet. Founder Ian Blackburn has dedicated his life to fine wine and to improving the audience so wine can continue to improve and thrive.

The STARS of Cabernet is Sponsored by: The Peninsula Beverly Hills, Acqua Panna, SanPellegrino, Los Angeles Magazine, LearnAboutWine.com and Merchantofwine.com

Video: STARS of Cabernet 2025 https://youtu.be/SjHjndVS6PY

Video: STARS of Cabernet 2025 Winery Lineup https://youtu.be/ZaNOxiiJbtk

Commercial for Learnaboutwine – 15 Second: Learn About Wine: 30th Anniversary https://youtu.be/34SsU8S0Q7Q

STARS of Cabernet assets and photos: https://drive.google.com/drive/u/0/folders/107PpZkB3QZlGWkAYTklMXpb8y1S-4e6b

Website: learnaboutwine.com and www.starsofcabernet.com

STARS of Cabernet 2024 – The Last Iteration https://flickr.com/photos/learnaboutwine/albums/72177720314477352/

Photo Credit – Hector Sandoval, Sandoval Media and Learnaboutwine.com

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/the-2025-stars-of-cabernet-302615062.html

SOURCE Learnaboutwine.com

Green Builder Media is proud to announce the completion of VISION House Transcend, a groundbreaking demonstration project that redefines sustainable, healthy, and resilient living.

LAKE CITY, Colo., Nov. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Nestled among the pine and aspen trees of Colorado’s San Juan Mountains, the net-zero energy, all-electric, and solar-powered Transcend home is a masterclass in performance, design, and wellness—proving that comfort and style can coexist with deep sustainability.

Built by prefab manufacturer Dvele, the VISION House Transcend demonstrates how precision engineering and offsite construction assures airtight envelopes, reduces waste, and delivers superior resilience.

“For decades, sustainability was framed as a tradeoff,” says Sara Gutterman, CEO of Green Builder Media. “With Transcend, we’ve proved that resilience can be sophisticated, and that wellness and performance can be seamlessly woven into every surface, system, and detail.”

The home’s light-gauge recycled steel framing offers enhanced durability and reduced embodied carbon, while the foundation that incorporates carbon-negative magnesium oxide board absorbs CO₂ during curing. The result: a home that is built to withstand wildfires, high winds, and seismic events—without sacrificing elegance or comfort.

Designed to operate 87% more efficiently than a typical new home, Transcend combines solar generation, battery storage, and advanced home automation for self-sufficiency. It also features advanced smart technologies that continuously monitor indoor air quality, temperature, and humidity, while learning and optimizing for occupant comfort.

The Transcend home takes wellness as seriously as performance. Serene design elements—muted tones, expansive glass, and biophilic materials—create an atmosphere of calm, connection, and clarity. The house also features products that are low-VOC, sustainably sourced, and recycled, and other products that promote relaxation.

The VISION House Transcend will serve as a living laboratory for performance monitoring, data collection, and education. Local utility partners Gunnison County Electric Association and Tri-State Generation and Transmission Association are studying the home as a case study in demand-side energy management, peak load shifting, and resilient electrification.

“Transcend is more than a home—it’s a model for how the building industry can respond to climate, affordability, and health challenges with beauty and intelligence,” says Kurt Goodjohn, CEO of Dvele.

Walk through the home virtually and explore every innovation that makes Transcend a model for the next generation of housing. Click here to watch the video tour or visit the website.

Green Builder Media thanks the sponsors of this project: Samsung, Dacor, JinkoSolar, LIXIL (Grohe, DXV, and American Standard), Daltile, Broan, Rockwool, Uponor, USG, Prosoco, Rheem, Arq Espacio, Lee Industries, Sonos, TruStile, Caesarstone, Delta Millworks, Grundfos, Craft Flooring, GCEA, and Tri-State.

About Green Builder Media

Green Builder Media is North America’s leading media company focused on green building and sustainable living. The company reaches more than 200,000 building professionals and millions of consumers through award-winning content, demonstration projects, and proprietary data from COGNITION Smart Data. Learn more at www.greenbuildermedia.com.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/debut-new-model-for-high-performance-pre-fab-living-302614973.html

SOURCE Green Builder Media, LLC

Students in 35 School Districts Will Breathe Cleaner Air

DIAMOND BAR, Calif., Nov. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The South Coast Air Quality Management District (South Coast AQMD) Governing Board approved up to $78.2 million to replace 286 older, high-polluting school buses with new zero-emission models and to install supporting charging infrastructure across the region.

The project will benefit 35 public school districts throughout the South Coast Air Basin. Of the new zero-emission buses:

• 124 will operate in Los Angeles County
• 50 in Orange County
• 60 in Riverside County
• 52 in San Bernardino County

The full list of school districts can be found here.

The new buses are expected to reduce harmful emissions by about 46.3 tons of smog-forming nitrogen oxides and 3.5 tons of particulate matter each year, significantly improving air quality, particularly for students.

More than 87 percent of the new buses will serve overburdened communities, ensuring that cleaner air reaches those who need it most. Delivery and deployment of the new buses are expected to begin in mid-2026, following vehicle procurement and infrastructure installation.

Funding for this initiative comes from multiple clean air programs, including the Carl Moyer Program, CARE4Kids Program and other state and local funding sources. This funding approach leverages state, federal, and local resources to accelerate the transition to zero-emission transportation across Southern California.

Since launching the Lower-Emission School Bus Program in 2001, South Coast AQMD has awarded nearly $372 million to help school districts replace or retrofit diesel school buses. To date, the program has replaced more than 1,900 diesel school buses with alternative-fuel or zero-emission models and retrofitted 3,400 buses with particulate matter traps—ensuring that students across the region travel on some of the cleanest school buses in the nation.

South Coast AQMD is the regulatory agency responsible for improving air quality for large areas of Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside and San Bernardino counties, including the Coachella Valley. For news, air quality alerts, event updates and more, please visit us at www.aqmd.gov, download our award-winning app, or follow us on Facebook, X (formerly known as Twitter) and Instagram.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/78-million-awarded-to-replace-286-polluting-school-buses-with-cleaner-models-302614975.html

SOURCE SOUTH COAST AQMD

LONGWOOD, Fla., Nov. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Waste Pro USA, Inc. (“Waste Pro”), a regional privately-held provider of non-hazardous waste collection, transfer, recycling and disposal services, announced today that it has completed the sale and issuance of $200,000,000 in aggregate principal amount of solid waste disposal revenue bonds in a three-state offering. The bond issuance consisted of the (i) $75,000,000 Florida Development Finance Corporation Solid Waste Disposal Revenue Bonds (Waste Pro USA, Inc. Project), Series 2025 (the “Florida Bonds”), (ii) $75,000,000 Louisiana Public Facilities Authority Solid Waste Disposal Revenue Bonds (Waste Pro USA, Inc. Project), Series 2025 (the “Louisiana Bonds”), and (iii) $50,000,000 Mississippi Business Finance Corporation Solid Waste Disposal Revenue Bonds (Waste Pro USA, Inc. Project), Series 2025A (the “Mississippi Bonds” and, together with the Florida Bonds and the Louisiana Bonds, the “Series 2025 Bonds”).

The Series 2025 Bonds are guaranteed by certain subsidiaries of Waste Pro pursuant to guaranty agreements and as described in the indentures and loan agreements relating to each of the Series 2025 Bonds. The Florida Bonds were issued with an approximately five-year interest rate period ending July 1, 2030 at an interest rate of 4.450% and mature July 1, 2037. The Louisiana Bonds were issued with an approximately three-year interest rate period ending October 2, 2028 at an interest rate of 4.375% and mature May 1, 2053. The Mississippi Bonds were issued with an approximately two-year interest rate period ending August 2, 2027 at an interest rate of 4.375% and mature February 1, 2048.

“The financial stewardship of our privately-owned, family-run company provides a stable foundation for sustained, long-term growth. Over the last quarter century, our company has grown from a single truck in 2001 to a fleet of over 4,300 collection vehicles, 5,400 employees, and annual revenues exceeding $1.2 billion today,” said Sean Jennings, Chief Executive Officer of Waste Pro. “Our growth is fueled by nearly 300 exclusive municipal contracts and franchises, alongside more than three dozen strategic tuck-in acquisitions completed over the last two years. We continue to maintain a strong pipeline of opportunities that will further strengthen our market position and enhance operational performance throughout our southeastern footprint.”

“We are honored by the investment community’s continued confidence in Waste Pro’s financial strength and future growth strategy. Their trust reinforces our commitment to delivering sustainable value and disciplined growth,” added Cort Sabina, Chief Financial Officer of Waste Pro. “This transaction, which was significantly oversold, was broadly supported by over twenty new and existing institutional investors. Tax-exempt financings, such as the Series 2025 Bonds, serve as a cornerstone of Waste Pro’s capital structure with approximately $586.7 million in fixed-rate, tax-exempt bonds outstanding today.”

Barclays Capital Inc. served as senior manager and sole bookrunner, with BofA Securities, Inc. and J.P. Morgan Securities LLC serving as co-managers, for the Series 2025 Bonds. CTBH Partners LLC served as financial advisor to Waste Pro. Greenberg Traurig served as counsel to Waste Pro.

The Series 2025 Bonds were offered only to qualified institutional buyers as defined in Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”). The Series 2025 Bonds have not been and will not be registered under the Securities Act and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act and other applicable securities laws.

This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy the Series 2025 Bonds, nor shall there be any sale of the Series 2025 Bonds in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to the registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction.

About Waste Pro USA, Inc.

Waste Pro USA, Inc. is one of the country’s fastest-growing privately owned non-hazardous solid waste collection, recycling, processing and disposal companies, operating in ten southeastern states. Waste Pro serves more than 2.5 million residential and 50,000 commercial customers from 119 operating locations. Waste Pro is headquartered in Longwood, Florida, and maintains nearly 300 exclusive municipal contracts and franchises.

Safe Harbor Statement

Certain matters discussed in this press release are “forward-looking statements” intended to qualify for the safe harbors from liability established by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can generally be identified as such by the context of the statements, including words such as Waste Pro “will,” “intends,” and other similar expressions. Among the forward-looking statements in this press release are statements regarding the offering and sale of the Series 2025 Bonds. All of these forward-looking statements are based on current expectations and estimates and management’s beliefs and assumptions. Waste Pro expressly disclaims any obligation to update such statements to reflect any change in its expectations whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required.

Media Contact: Tracy Meehan
Communications Director
(407) 883-3791
tmeehan@wasteprousa.com

Investors
: Ryan LeBeau
Vice President of Finance
(407) 937-2675
rlebeau@wasteprousa.com

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SOURCE Waste Pro USA, Inc.

UBCF to distribute 160 therapeutic queen mattresses to patients and survivors, improving quality of life

LOUISVILLE, Ky., Nov. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — United Breast Cancer Foundation (UBCF) is proud to announce its 7th consecutive year supporting breast cancer patients and survivors in the Louisville, Kentucky region. On Saturday, November 22, 2025, UBCF will host its free Mattress Giveaway at the Mall St. Matthews in Louisville, Kentucky. The event provides queen-size therapeutic mattresses at no cost to qualified and pre-approved recipients, offering comfort and relief to those affected by breast cancer.

Event Details:

• Date: Saturday, November 22, 2025
• Location: Mall St. Matthews, Louisville, KY
• Recipients: Breast cancer patients and survivors (Kentucky residency not required)
• Application process: https://ubcf.org/kentucky/

Gratitude to Local Partners

UBCF extends heartfelt thanks to Brookfield Properties for donating the event space at Mall St. Matthews, making this important community effort possible.

A special thank-you also goes to the Derby City Dragons, Louisville’s breast cancer survivor dragon boat team, for coordinating volunteers and lending their spirit of collaboration and teamwork to the event.

Why This Support Matters

Kentucky continues to face significant challenges when it comes to breast cancer:

• Kentucky remains among the states with the highest overall cancer rates in the U.S., according to Advisory Board.
• Breast cancer accounts for about 30% (or 1 in 3) of all new cancers diagnosed in women in the U.S. each year as reported by ACS.

For patients battling breast cancer, restorative sleep plays a crucial role in healing, recovery, and emotional health. By providing high-quality therapeutic mattresses, UBCF helps relieve one of the many burdens faced by survivors and those in treatment, allowing both patients and survivors to rest and recover more comfortably.

What recipients are saying

“I wanted to be sure I reached out to say thank you a million times for the amazing experience… The mattress is the best mattress I have ever had in my life.. Everything was amazing, especially the experience of being around others in a similar situation as myself. Thank you again and many blessings. ~ Kara”

“I wanted to… reach out directly and express how much it truly means to me to go to sleep more comfortably at night without the aches and pains I experienced before getting my new mattress.
The event was… a powerful reminder that kindness and support still exist in “abundance”. Receiving the gifts made me feel seen, supported, and genuinely cared for… With heartfelt appreciation, Alisa”

“I truly enjoyed this event. I could feel the love and support from everyone involved. The mattress has made a very big difference in my sleep. I truly want to thank everyone involved and pray God’s Blessings upon each of you for the wonderful work that you do. ~ Melissa”

Through distribution events like the UBCF Mattress Giveaway, United Breast Cancer Foundation continues to bring hope, comfort, and tangible relief to individuals and families navigating the challenges of breast cancer. Each mattress provided represents more than just a gift – it’s a message of care, compassion, and community support that empowers survivors and patients to rest easier and recover with renewed strength.

About United Breast Cancer Foundation

United Breast Cancer Foundation is a non-profit founded in 2000 with a mission to make a positive difference in the lives of those affected by breast cancer. UBCF is committed to gifting helpful and supportive donated items, providing financial grants to those in need, and funding breast health and wellness services focused on education, screening, treatment, recovery, overall wellness, and beyond. The platinum rated, 4-star charity offers numerous life-supporting patient and family programs available to women, men, and families nationwide. Tax-deductible contributions (consult your tax advisor) may be made towards UBCF’s mission and programs. UBCF accepts contributions through Donor Advised Funds as well as vehicle and property donations. Learn more https://ubcf.org/

For more information or to apply for the Louisville Mattress Giveaway, visit: https://ubcf.org/kentucky/

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SOURCE United Breast Cancer Foundation

Colossal unveils the funds raised and the winner of the Face of Halloween competition while helping deliver toys to hospitalized kids.

PHOENIX, Nov. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The nonprofit Starlight Children’s Foundation and professional fundraiser Colossal celebrated the results of their Face of Halloween competition, which raised $3.2 million during a holiday celebration at Banner Children’s at Thunderbird Medical Center in Glendale.

Colossal also announced the winner of the Face of Halloween, Ollie Graves, a scary movie fan who loves all things spooky. Graves will be awarded $13,000 and a meet-and-greet with the original “Scream Queen” Jamie Lee Curtis and fellow slasher film vets, Matthew Lillard of “Scream” and Kane Hodder, aka Jason Voorhees.

Mary Hagen, Colossal CEO, shared how the competition benefits Starlight and what it was like to deliver happiness to hospitalized kids. “Through public voting, we’re also raising awareness for Starlight Children’s Foundation as we narrow down to our champion. There’s really nothing like it when you get to have this tangible impact. We raise the funds, but we don’t always get the opportunity to get hands-on, so it’s really an exceptional experience to see the impact of the dollars we’ve raised through the competition.” 

Starlight CEO, Adam Garone, reflected on the partnership with Colossal. “One of the most important days for children is Halloween, so this campaign raising $3.2 million for us will go so far in delivering more of our programs to kids for the holiday and throughout the rest of the year. To all the voters and participants in the Face of Halloween, your donations will have an incredible impact on the amount of children that we are able to support through Starlight programs.”

Starlight Children’s Foundation offers programs, like Toy Deliveries and Hospital Gowns, free of charge, to its hospital partners nationwide, including Banner Children’s at Thunderbird, to help unleash the power of play, an essential part of childhood. Play provides pediatric patients with positive distraction and moments of happiness while temporarily setting aside the challenges of medical procedures, treatments, and conditions. Studies have shown that engaging in play can contribute to patients’ well-being and potentially contribute to a speedy recovery. 

“We’re incredibly grateful for organizations like Starlight and Colossal for everything they do to help make our young patients’ times in the hospital a bit less scary,” said Nikki Hardin, nursing director at Banner Children’s at Thunderbird. “Seeing the joy on kids’ faces during events like reverse trick-or-treating and toy deliveries is a testament to the impact made for our pediatric patients and their families.”

This marks the second year that Starlight Children’s Foundation has been the beneficiary of a Colossal competition. Face of Halloween highlights the power of community and fandoms as Halloween fans everywhere participated and voted for their favorites to become the Face of Halloween. 

About Starlight Children’s Foundation
Hospital stays can be lonely, stressful, and scary. That’s why Starlight exists. Founded in 1982, Starlight Children’s Foundation is a 501(c)3 organization that aims to deliver happiness to seriously ill children and their families through vital programs that impact millions of kids annually. Donor-funded and offered free of charge to hospitals and families, Starlight programs unleash the power of play, empowering kids with a renewed sense of optimism, resilience, and courage. Starlight is a top-rated charity committed to the equitable allocation of programs to its nationwide hospital network. Healing begins with happiness™. Learn more at starlight.org and follow Starlight on social media @starlightchildrensfoundation.

About Colossal
Colossal is a nationally registered professional fundraiser that inspires people to advocate for themselves and those in need. Through online competitions like Face of Halloween, participants have the opportunity to make their mark while also making a big impact. Colossal competitions serve as fundraising campaigns for DTCare, a United States 501(c)(3) public charity organization, which then grants donation funds to specified charities at the completion of the competitions. Learn more at colossal.org. Who’s Next?

Media Contact:
Anne Pritchett
pr@colossal.org

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SOURCE Colossal

MEXICO CITY, Nov. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Fortem Capital, a leading real-estate fund manager, announced that the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) recognized one of its urban developments during the Greenbuild International Conference & Expo held last week in Los Angeles, California, as the first project in Mexico to achieve the LEED for Communities: Plan and Design v4.1 certification level Gold.

This milestone positions Fortem Capital’s investment model as a regional benchmark in Latin America, built on a transversal vision that aligns financial performance with social and environmental impact throughout the real-estate investment cycle.

Located in the metropolitan area of Mexico City, the 88.5-acre mixed-use community integrates residential, multifamily, and commercial areas, along with over 807,000 square feet of public parks. Conceived under comprehensive planning principles, the project reflects Fortem Capital’s transversal vision of creating investments that deliver economic, social, and environmental value that endures over time.

Ignacio García de Quevedo, Managing Director of Fortem Capital, stated:

“Real-estate investment must create lasting value—economic, environmental, and social. This certification validates our commitment to an integrated investment model that drives responsible development and enhances community well-being.”

The development features a zero-discharge water system with two treatment plants that recycle 100 percent of the water used for irrigation and supply, along with LED lighting, fiber-optic connectivity, and independent drainage systems that consolidate a modern and environmentally responsible urban model.

Bernardo Fernández Cueto, Executive Director of Latitud 23 Developments, added:

“This milestone shows that when a transversal vision guides every decision from the start, new standards become possible. Our goal is to create communities that meet real housing needs while generating value for people, the environment, and cities.”

The participation of institutional investors played a key role in strengthening an investment model that advances responsible real-estate development and positions Mexico as a regional leader in the adoption of international sustainability standards.

Miguel Sánchez Navarro, Chairman of Fortem Capital, noted that this achievement reflects the strength of the group’s vertically integrated platform:

“Fortem Capital brings together investment management and development under one strategic vision. This integration ensures alignment between institutional capital and execution, delivering consistent performance and enduring value.”

Fortem Capital remains committed to its integrated investment model, guided by the principle of Building Value in Every Investment, recognizing that true value arises from the balance between economic performance, environmental responsibility, and social impact.

About Fortem Capital

Fortem Capital is a real estate fund manager with over US$750 million in capital raised across public and private vehicles. Fortem focuses on high-conviction investments in the hospitality, residential, and industrial sectors throughout Mexico. Backed by a vertical integrated platform with deep local expertise and institutional discipline, Fortem Capital sources, structures, and operates projects that create long-term value. Since 2024, the firm has been a proud signatory of the Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI), reflecting its enduring commitment to Transparency, Integrity, Responsibility, Teamwork, and Commitment with Sustainability.

About Latitud 23 Developments

Latitud 23 Developments is a leading real estate developer focused on hospitality, residential, and industrial projects across Mexico. Through collaboration with local partners, Latitud 23 has developed over 2.5 million sqm of land and more than 300,000 sqm of built space, establishing an authentic, sustainable, and place-driven development model. Its diversified portfolio includes two lifestyle hotels, 1.2 million sqm of residential communities encompassing more than 2,740 homes, and 1.2 million sqm of urbanized industrial land. Inspired by the 23° North latitude—where the land meets the sea— Latitud23 embodies the harmony between place, design, and purpose, creating spaces that endure and reflect the essence of their surroundings.

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SOURCE Fortem Capital