Tag: PR Newswire

A Texas judge has greenlighted a multi-state anti-trust climate initiatives lawsuit against major asset managers, says Friends of Science. The US DOE climate science report that rejects claims of a climate crisis is buried by the mainstream press.

CALGARY, AB, Aug. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — As reported by Reuters on Aug. 01, 2025, a US judge rejected efforts by Blackrock and other fund managers to dismiss a multi-state lawsuit wherein, “Asset managers [are] accused of violating antitrust law via climate activism. Outcome may affect $27 trillion in managed assets,” says Friends of Science Society.

The roots of this legal action appear to originate in the Republican House Judiciary Committee’s investigation and their June 2024 interim report “Climate Control: Exposing The Decarbonization Collusion In Environmental, Social, And Governance (ESG) Investing.” 

Authors of the report claim that the accused collaborated with various shareholder pressure groups like Climate Action 100+ along with various environmental non-governmental organizations (ENGOs) to manipulate markets. The efforts were described by the House Judiciary report as a so-called “climate cartel” and that: “The climate cartel has declared war on the American way of life. The climate cartel is waging ‘a Global World War’ for net zero against disfavored American companies, including those in the fossil fuel, aviation, and farming industries that allow Americans to drive, fly, and eat.”

In a recent video, Friends of Science Society denounced efforts by Net Zero climate activists like David Suzuki, Seth Klein and Margaret Klein Salamon who demand that some kind of War Measures Act should be implemented to fight the alleged ‘climate crisis’ – leading to nothing more than rationing your freedoms, destroying jobs, driving up costs, and ultimately climate tyranny.

The new US Department of Energy (DOE) climate change report that reveals there is no climate crisis should be front page good news for all people, says Friends of Science. Instead, the mainstream media (MSM) appear to be burying it, as outlined in this Western Standard article of Aug. 04, 2025.

According to a US DOE press release of July 29, 2025, “Among the key findings, the report concludes that CO₂-induced warming appears to be less damaging economically than commonly believed, and that aggressive mitigation strategies may be misdirected…”

As revealed in the US DOE climate science report, a climate risk scenario favoured by banks and climate activists known as Representative Concentration Pathway 8.5 (RCP 8.5) gives the illusion of an impending emergency when framed as the ‘business-as-usual’ case; in fact, it is based on “implausible” inputs.

Former Wall Street analyst and portfolio manager, Paul H. Tice, wrote a book titled, “Race to Zero: How ESG Investing will Crater the Global Financial System.” He denounces ESG and ‘sustainable investing’ as a scam and has described Germany as the ‘sick man of Europe‘ due to its green energy policies in a Sept. 2024 report on mandatory emissions reporting.

Tilak Doshi outlined in The Daily Sceptic on July 13, 2025, how absurd it is that Germans were told that the Energiewende (‘energy transition’) would cost households “only around one euro per month, the price of a scoop of ice cream”. But now in 2025, German Greens are demanding a price freeze on ice cream as costs skyrocket; their own green policies making it unaffordable.

A new Friends of Science short video shows that there is no energy transition.

In Canada, climate change has ceased to be a top priority, garnering only 4% public support in a recent Leger360 poll, says Friends of Science. A new video short asks if such limited support should be driving expensive and unrealistic climate action, slated to cost $476 billion (2020-2030)?

None-the-less, groups like Climate Action Network in an Aug. 04, 2025, article in The Hill Times, and a June 03, 2025, petition to regulators by Women Leading on Climate continue to demand that climate risk reporting be forced on corporations; and Canadian banks rely on the implausible RCP 8.5 for such risk analysis. 

Friends of Science Society denounced these measures in June 04, 2025, Open Letter to the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions, referencing the work of energy expert Vaclav Smil, whose work explains that Net Zero 2050 is not possible.

About
Friends of Science Society is an independent group of earth, atmospheric and solar scientists, engineers, and citizens that is celebrating its 23rd year of offering climate science insights. After a thorough review of a broad spectrum of literature on climate change, Friends of Science Society has concluded that the sun is the main driver of climate change, not carbon dioxide (CO2).

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SOURCE Friends of Science Society

Gates continues to leverage sustainability as a strategic priority that fuels innovation, deepens stakeholder trust, and supports long-term performance

DENVER, Aug. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Gates (NYSE: GTES), a global manufacturer of innovative, highly engineered power transmission and fluid power solutions, has published its 2024 Sustainability Report, showcasing the company’s strategic investments for sustainable innovation in each pillar of its GTES framework: Governance, Technology, Environment, and Stewardship.

Highlights of the Gates 2024 Sustainability Report include:

• Governance: The company strengthened its data, governance and cybersecurity protocols, safeguarding stakeholder trust and supporting enterprise-wide initiatives. As an example, Gates enhanced its supplier onboarding process and communicated expectations around consistent, responsible practices at every level of the supply chain.
• Technology: From design to end-of-life, Gates technology is redefining product circularity. In 2024, the company diverted 100% of rubber waste from landfills at 21 facilities and remanufactured 32% of rubber scrap – results made possible by a deep commitment to innovation. That same commitment led to 132 patents awarded in 2024, further accelerating Gates Eco-Innovation™ efforts to deliver longer-lasting, lighter, and more sustainable solutions.
• Environment: Gates actively participates in the global renewable energy transition and grew its renewable energy use by 6% in 2024 through strategic investments in onsite solar and purchasing renewable energy credits (EACs).
• Stewardship: Gates continues to invest in its people’s development through formal training and mentorship programs with a 160% increase in participants from 2023, an on-demand learning library, and on-the-job opportunities to further develop their skillsets and build strong careers while giving back to the communities in which they live and work.

“At Gates, sustainability is not only a responsibility but also a catalyst for innovation and long-term value creation,” said Ivo Jurek, chief executive officer of Gates. “We know that measurable impact requires disciplined execution and an unwavering commitment to continuous improvement. Whether it’s advancing material science, reducing waste, or empowering our people, we’re proving that sustainability and performance go hand in hand.”

Gates sustainability reporting process applies the standards and guidelines expressed by the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) Foundation and its Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB), and the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD). Reporting is also informed by the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) and United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

For more details, please see the full Gates 2024 Sustainability Report, available to view or download at gates.com/sustainability.

About Gates Industrial Corporation plc
Gates is a global manufacturer of innovative, highly engineered power transmission and fluid power solutions. Gates offers a broad portfolio of products to diverse replacement channel customers, and to original equipment manufacturers as specified components. For more than a century, Gates has pushed the boundaries of materials science to engineer products that exceed expectations in many sectors of the industrial and consumer markets. Our products play essential roles in a diverse range of applications across a wide variety of end markets including industrial on-highway, industrial off-highway, mobility and recreation, automotive, energy and resources as well as diversified industrial. Our products are sold in more than 130 countries across our four commercial regions: the Americas; Europe, Middle East & Africa; Greater China; and East Asia & India. More about Gates can be found at www.gates.com.

Forward Looking Statement
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. In some cases, you can identify these forward-looking statements by the use of words such as “outlook,” “believes,” “expects,” “potential,” “continues,” “may,” “will,” “should,” “could,” “seeks,” “predicts,” “intends,” “trends,” “plans,” “estimates,” “anticipates” or the negative version of these words or other comparable words. These statements include, but are not limited to, statements related to expectations regarding the performance of the Company’s business and financial results (including our ability to drive margin improvements, our capital deployment optionality, and the impact from investments in our business), and statements regarding our outlook for 2025. Such forward-looking statements are subject to various risks and uncertainties, including, among others, economic, political and other risks associated with international operations (including the imposition of tariffs), risks inherent to the manufacturing industry, macroeconomic factors beyond the Company’s control (including material and logistics availability, inflation, supply chain and labor challenges and end-market recovery), risks related to catastrophic events, continued operation of our manufacturing facilities, including as a result of cybersecurity attacks, our ability to forecast and meet demand and market acceptance of new products. Additional factors that could cause the Company’s results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements can be found under the section entitled “Risk Factors” of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 28, 2024, which is expected to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on or about the date of this presentation, as such factors may be updated from time to time in the Company’s periodic filings with the SEC, which are accessible on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. Accordingly, there are or will be important factors that could cause actual outcomes or results to differ materially from those indicated in these statements. These factors should not be construed as exhaustive and should be read in conjunction with the other cautionary statements that are included in the Company’s filings with the SEC. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or review any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as required by law.

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SOURCE Gates

ST. CROIX, U.S. Virgin Islands, Aug. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism proudly welcomes the nomination of communications and public affairs executive Jennifer Matarangas-King as the next Commissioner of Tourism. Governor Albert Bryan Jr. announced the nomination during a Government House press briefing, positioning Matarangas-King to continue building on the Department’s unprecedented momentum and growth over the past six years.

A native of St. Croix and a respected voice in the Virgin Islands community, Matarangas-King brings more than 30 years of experience in strategic communications, public affairs, and organizational leadership across both the public and private sectors. Her deep-rooted understanding of the Territory’s culture and strong service record align with the Department’s continued focus on responsible growth, innovation, and global brand expansion.

“Tourism is more than our economy. It is how we tell our story to the world and create opportunity for the people of the Virgin Islands,” shares Gov. Albert Bryan, Jr. “Jennifer understands that. She is a strategic thinker, a skilled communicator, and a proud Virgin Islander with a deep commitment to service. I am confident that she will lead the Department of Tourism with vision and distinction.”

During Commissioner Joseph Boschulte’s tenure, the Department delivered one of the most transformative eras in its history, leading the Caribbean in Average Daily Rate (ADR), welcoming record-breaking air and cruise arrivals, reimagining signature festivals, launching award-winning marketing campaigns, and forging groundbreaking partnerships across sports, entertainment, and global travel markets. The Virgin Islands emerged as a premier destination during a time of global tourism disruption, with the Department’s efforts driving consistent economic recovery, increased visitor spend, and all-time high collections into the Tourism Advertising and Revolving Fund (TARF).

“I am honored and humbled to be considered for this role,” said Jennifer Matarangas-King. “Tourism is one of the most powerful tools we have to shape the future of these Virgin Islands. It drives investment, fuels entrepreneurship, and celebrates our identity. I look forward to working alongside our tourism stakeholders and the incredible team at the Department to elevate our product, empower our people, and expand our reach as a premier Caribbean destination.”

Matarangas-King began her public service career as press secretary to Governor Roy Schneider and later served as public relations director for Senator Vargrave Richards. For over two decades, she played an integral leadership role at Viya and its predecessor companies, spearheading public relations, corporate communications, customer experience, and strategic planning initiatives. Through her work in telecommunications, Matarangas-King played a pivotal role in ensuring connectivity for visitors to the territory and has also served as a board member on the St. Croix Hotel Association.

The Department of Tourism thanks Joseph Boschulte for his years of leadership and innovation. In the interim, Boschulte will provide support to Commissioner Matarangas-King and the Department of Tourism through the transition period, ensuring operational continuity and alignment of strategic priorities.

ABOUT THE U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS

About 40 miles east of Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands comprise a United States territory located in the northeastern Caribbean Sea. The three islands are St. Croix, St. John, and St. Thomas, where the capital of Charlotte Amalie is located. Perfect for leisure or business travel, the U.S. Virgin Islands features breathtaking, world-renowned beaches, an international marine industry, European architecture, and a burgeoning restaurant industry. No passports are required from U.S. citizens traveling from the U.S. mainland or Puerto Rico. Entry requirements for non-U.S. citizens are equivalent to entering the United States from any international country. Upon departure, a passport is required for non-U.S. citizens. For more information about the United States Virgin Islands, go to www.VisitUSVI.com. 

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SOURCE U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism

 Evok Innovations and Constellation Technology Ventures Lead Investment in Scalable Technology for Critical Mineral Liberation and Legacy Waste Cleanup

CASPER, Wyo., Aug. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — DISA Technologies Inc. (DISA), a company pioneering high-impact solutions for mineral recovery and uranium remediation, has closed its oversubscribed Series A2 financing round. DISA raised a total of $30 million in private capital, including $23 million in primary funding and $7 million in secondary to accommodate oversubscription and provide liquidity for early angel investors. The round was led by Evok Innovations with cornerstone strategic investment from Constellation Technology Ventures (CTV), the venture investing organization within Constellation, the nation’s largest producer of reliable, emissions-free energy and participation from Valor Equity Partners, Veriten, and existing backers including Halliburton Labs.

DISA’s patented High-Pressure Slurry Ablation (HPSA) technology was developed to serve both modern mineral processing and environmental remediation needs—delivering a cleaner, faster and more efficient way to liberate valuable minerals. HPSA is now being scaled for deployment across two critical applications: improving grades and recoveries of critical minerals for mining operators, and cleaning up Abandoned Uranium Mine (AUM) waste by recycling uranium and vanadium while reducing environmental liability.

“We’re proud to have the support of such forward-thinking partners who share our vision: increasing the global production of critical minerals and converting toxic legacy waste into strategic assets that advance American sustainability, energy resilience, and national security,” said Greyson Buckingham, DISA’s CEO, President and Co-Founder. “This investment allows us to accelerate commercial deployment of HPSA units for both mining operators and uranium remediation stakeholders.”

“We’re especially grateful to Evok for believing in DISA from the beginning, and to Constellation for their bold leadership in shaping America’s energy future,” Buckingham added. “We’re also excited to welcome Veriten and Valor Equity Partners to the team, and deeply appreciate the continued support from Halliburton Labs and our other existing investors who have helped make this next chapter possible.”

CTV’s investment highlights the strategic importance of DISA’s accelerating uranium remediation work. Following a successful 2023 EPA Treatability Study, DISA signed an MOU with the Navajo Nation EPA to launch a Phase 2 commercial-scale demonstration project. In April 2025, DISA’s application for an NRC Service Providers License (SPL) was accepted for technical review, with completion of the licensing action decision expected by September. Constellation’s backing strengthens DISA’s position as the nation’s first licensed provider focused on AUM remediation.

“At Constellation, we recognize that securing America’s energy future starts with securing its fuel supply,” said Bryan Hanson, Chief Generation Officer, Constellation. “DISA’s innovative approach aligns with our goal to strengthen domestic energy resilience and deploy cutting-edge technologies that support clean, reliable energy.”

Evok Innovations and Valor Equity Partners bring deep strategic value to DISA—Evok through its focus on cutting-edge energy innovation, and Valor through its operational expertise with high-growth companies. Veriten adds industry insight and connectivity across the energy landscape, while Halliburton Labs continues to be a vital collaborator supporting founder-led innovation.

“Valor Equity Partners is proud to invest in DISA, a company that embodies innovation and possesses significant growth potential. Our investment reflects our belief in the company’s vision and leadership team, along with our focus on disruptive technologies that are making the world a better place. We are grateful for the opportunity to partner with DISA in this next phase of growth,” said David Heskett, Operating Partner at Valor Equity Partners. 

“Halliburton Labs reaffirms its support of DISA through this strategic investment,” said Andres Cabada, managing director at Halliburton Labs. “DISA’s innovation in mineral processing and remediation creates meaningful value for resource owners and other stakeholders. We welcome the opportunity to collaborate as DISA advances its commercialization efforts and expands its operations. We look forward to their success”.

“Investing in DISA is an opportunity to catalyze groundbreaking uranium remediation solutions that can have downstream impacts on our energy landscape. Complemented by their entrepreneurial founder-led team, we are excited to begin this partnership,” said Maynard Holt, Founder and CEO of Veriten.  

DISA has successfully executed several key milestones over the last 24 months, and this funding round will enable the company to scale its operations and expand the capabilities of HPSA faster than ever. 

For more information about DISA and its solutions, please visit www.DISAusa.com.

About DISA Technologies 
Founded in 2018, DISA Technologies is revolutionizing mineral recovery through its patented High-Pressure Slurry Ablation (HPSA) technology—an innovative solution that upgrades critical minerals from mined ore and legacy waste. Serving both the mining and remediation sectors, they recover valuable resources that power industry, strengthen energy independence and restore contaminated sites to productive use. DISA’s technology unlocks economic and environmental value, transforming how the world processes, remediates and recycles essential mineral assets. DISA is headquartered in Casper, Wyoming, with a satellite office in Westminster, Colorado. 

About Evok Innovations 
Launched in 2016 through a partnership between Suncor, Cenovus and the BC Cleantech CEO Alliance, Evok Innovations (Evok), is committed to developing and deploying cutting-edge clean energy technology. Evok’s inaugural fund aimed to accelerate the development of critical energy transition technologies across North America. The fund has made 16 investments in decarbonization technologies, ranging from clean hydrogen and carbon-to-value, to long-duration energy storage. Building on this legacy, Evok launched Fund II in 2022, which targets early-stage investments across North America in key industrial decarbonization verticals, including carbon capture use and storage (CCUS), low-carbon fuels, clean energy and grid innovations, mobility, advanced materials and circularity. 

About Constellation Technology Ventures

Constellation Technology Ventures (CTV) is the venture investing organization within Constellation, the United States’ largest producer of clean, carbon-free energy and a leading supplier of energy products and services to businesses, homes, community aggregations and public sector customers. The mission of CTV is to drive innovation by investing in venture-stage energy technology companies that can provide new solutions to Constellation and its customers. CTV invests in companies exploring innovative energy technologies and business models, building a portfolio that represents a broad range of development stages and technology types.

About Valor Equity Partners 
Valor Equity Partners is an operational growth investment firm focused on investing in high-growth companies across various stages of development. For decades, Valor has served its companies with unique expertise to solve the challenges of growth and scale. Valor partners with leading companies and entrepreneurs who are committed to the highest standards of excellence and the courage to transform their industries. For more information on Valor Equity Partners, please visit www.valorep.com.

About Veriten’s NexTen Fund 
The NexTen fund leverages Veriten’s broad network and expertise to invest in reliable, sustainable, scalable, and economically viable energy solutions. Dedicated to understanding the constantly evolving, volatile, and often noisy and confusing energy landscape, the firm has now backed 13 innovative, private companies poised to capitalize on long-term, global energy trends. 

About Halliburton Labs 
Halliburton Labs is a collaborative environment where entrepreneurs, academics, investors, and experienced practitioners advance the future of energy faster. Halliburton Labs provides access to world-class facilities, a global business network, commercialization expertise, and financing opportunities to help participants scale their business. Visit the company’s website at Halliburton Labs. Connect with Halliburton Labs on LinkedIn and Instagram. Halliburton Labs is a wholly owned subsidiary of Halliburton Company (NYSE: HAL).

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SOURCE DISA Technologies, Inc.

Donations of food, hay, and bedding enable life-saving care for 400+ neglected guinea pigs

LOS ANGELES, Aug. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Washington -based pet supply company, Small Pet Select, has teamed up with Los Angeles Guinea Pig Rescue (LAGPR) to provide critical resources for 400 guinea pigs rescued from extreme conditions in a South Los Angeles home. 

The donation, which included critical care supplies like food pellets, hay, and bedding, helped LAGPR to undertake one of its largest rescues to date. 

The Crisis: Overcrowding, Neglect, and Dire Conditions 

On July 15, 2025, Los Angeles Animal Services responded to reports of animal hoarding, initially estimating 200 guinea pigs at the scene. Upon arrival, Commander Yvonne Rodriguez discovered an estimated 400 guinea pigs living in overcrowded, unsanitary conditions — both inside and outside of an LA home. 

Veterinarian Dr. Alexis Zieve was on the scene to help triage the animals who suffered from respiratory illnesses, ringworm, and bite wounds, with many pregnant or nursing. 

Dr. Zieve confirmed that the bites were likely due to overcrowding, which she says can “trigger territorial aggression among males.” 

“How On Earth Can We Manage This?”

Saskia Chiesa, Director of the Los Angeles Guinea Pig Rescue, faced an unprecedented challenge. “How on earth can we manage this?” she recalled, explaining that taking in hundreds of animals at once could be “financially draining”. 

With no other local options to accommodate such a large population, and knowing the guinea pigs would have no option without their help, she rallied a team and phoned an ally. 

Small Pet Select’s Swift Lifeline 

When Chiesa reached out to Bill Gordon, the CEO of Small Pet Select, for help, there was no hesitation. 

“Bill said, ‘What do you need? When do you need it? Where do you need it?’ According to Chisea, that gave her the courage to move forward.”

The generous donation will help with bedding and feeding the 246 females LAGPR rescued, as well as the babies that are yet to be born. Guinea pigs can start reproducing at just a few weeks old and become pregnant within hours after birth. What’s more, they can have up to 8 pups at a time! 

Sadly, Chiesa says it is likely that most (if not all) of the female intakes are pregnant, estimating they could birth up to 625 or more babies in the coming weeks. 

The males were divided among 6 separate animal shelters in LA for rehoming, while the LA Guinea Pig Rescue took the females and babies and has made preparations for a birthing center where they can raise their young in a safe, healthy environment. 

Small Pet Select is no stranger to animal welfare and rescue efforts, and even has a rescue locator tool on its website to help homeless small pets find their forever families.

The donation will help alleviate some of the financial strain associated with such a massive rescue effort, allowing LAGPR to focus on ongoing medical treatment, foster care, and eventual adoption efforts for all the new piggies. 

How You Can Help 

The LA Guinea Pig Rescue continues to seek: 

• Donations for medical bills. Visit the LAGPR donation page to support. 
• Adopters for healthy guinea pigs (you can fill out their adoption form here!)
• Supplies, including fresh veggies if you are in the area, or check out their Amazon wishlist to have supplies sent straight to the rescue.

About Small Pet Select 

Small Pet Select is a family-owned and operated producer of premium food, hay, and bedding for rabbits, guinea pigs, chickens, and other small pets. Founded by animal allies, Small Pet Select prides itself on ethical sourcing, sustainability, and rescue partnerships. Learn more here.

About Los Angeles Guinea Pig Rescue 

LAGPR is a no-kill, nonprofit rescue founded by Saskia Chisea. The organization’s mission is to rehabilitate and rehome abandoned guinea pigs. The rescue is a private foundation and operates through a team of staff and volunteers. 

Watch the rescue story here. 

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SOURCE Small Pet Select

From the White House to Nairobi: Two Visionary Brothers Reimagine Black Global Leadership, Creating Jobs in Africa, Cultivating Cultural Spaces, and Inspiring a New Era of Ownership

LINK TO ASSETS

WASHINGTON, Aug. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — As Nairobi rises to global prominence with major United Nations agencies set to relocate their headquarters to the city, a new era for Africa is unfolding. John and Mike Burns—the visionary entrepreneurs and cultural architects known as The Burns Brothers—are building bridges across continents, advancing a movement of Black leadership that reflects Africa’s expanding role on the world stage. From orchestrating historic White House events to launching Africa’s first African American-owned private members’ club, the brothers are charting an interconnected world where the diaspora thrives. Their expanding ecosystem of businesses now spans continents united by a singular mission: to uplift, connect, and inspire diverse communities through ownership, creativity, and opportunity.

“Africa isn’t just the future—it’s the now,” says John Burns, a seasoned attorney and co-founder. “We’re not here to just open doors. We’re building the house.”

From War Zones to the White House

Mike Burns, U.S. Army veteran and West Point graduate, brings a warrior’s discipline to their multinational mandate. After flying helicopters in Iraq and Afghanistan, he turned his focus toward service through leadership, becoming Chief Diversity Officer at a Fortune 500 company and creating economic pipelines that now employ tens of thousands across Africa.

As cultural event producers for the Biden Administration, The Burns Brothers made history with the first-ever Juneteenth Celebration at the White House in 2023 and returned in 2024 with an encore featuring legends like Gladys Knight, Patti LaBelle, and Kirk Franklin.

“We’ve devoted our lives to ensuring Black voices aren’t just heard, but honored at the highest levels,” says Mike. “Now, we’re harnessing that resolve to transform Africa.”

Where Culture, Community, and Commerce Converge

From HQ DC House in Washington to HQ Kenya House in Tatu City—just outside Nairobi—the Burns Brothers are redefining global luxury, hospitality, and legacy. The exclusive private members’ clubs serve as dynamic hubs for connection, advancement, and creative exchange among professionals, entrepreneurs, and cultural leaders. Their growing portfolio of hospitality brands also includes:

• KATA: An Asian-inspired culinary and nightlife destination in Washington’s historic Chinatown.
• The Nohmad: A stylish day-to-night coffee and cocktail lounge located above KATA.

Designed by Jimmie Drummond, each space becomes a gateway where form, function, and culture converge in an immersive experience.

Investing in Opportunity and Lasting Impact

In partnership with CCI Global, one of Africa’s largest private employers, The Burns Brothers have supported the creation of over 20,000 jobs across Kenya, Rwanda, South Africa, Ethiopia, Egypt, and Nigeria. Their own ventures have directly generated nearly 500 new positions—with ambitious plans to bring that number to 50,000 over the next decade. Through high-growth sector collaborations, they’re building lasting bridges between U.S. enterprise and African talent.

“For us, this is about dignity, hope, and creating generational wealth—not just for individuals, but for entire communities,” says Mike Burns. “We’re not just investing in businesses—we’re investing in people, and in a future that’s shared.”

From Boardrooms to the Cultural Stage

At the intersection of business and culture, The Burns Brothers ignite conversations and connections that inspire progress. From private tastings with Hollywood legends to provocative discussions with stars of Netflix’s Love Is Blind DC, their curated experiences spark dialogue and innovation. With the ICON to ICAN Foundation, they extend their impact, forging pathways for mentorship, storytelling, and inspiration—uplifting the next generation alongside luminaries like Chaka Khan and Congressman Jothn Lewis.

Resonate Africa 2025: Uplifting a Global Movement

At this pivotal moment for Nairobi and the continent, The Burns Brothers will launch Resonate Africa in late 2025—a first-of-its-kind summit where trailblazers in technology, culture, finance, and wellness will meet to bolster the global voice of the African diaspora.

Upcoming Book: The Continuum of Change: Impacting Change Through Moments That Matter

On September 16, 2025, The Burns Brothers and co-author Meghan Davis Hill will release The Continuum of Change: Impacting Change Through Moments That Matter at The Nohmad (600 F St NW, Washington D.C. 20004). This new book distills their personal experiences into practical strategies for achieving meaningful transformation at every level. Advance copies are available here.

Follow The Burns Brothers’ journey on Instagram, Facebook, or LinkedIn.

For additional information, media requests, or press assets, contact Asma Amani at asma@asmaamanipr.com or +1 (703) 286-9084.

About The Burns Brothers

The Burns Brothers—John and Mike Burns—are visionary entrepreneurs, cultural architects, and global thought leaders reshaping the narrative of Black excellence across business, hospitality, and social impact. With ventures spanning five continents, their work bridges the African diaspora through ownership, creativity, and opportunity. From producing historic cultural events at the White House to launching Africa’s first African American-owned private members’ club, The Burns Brothers are pioneering a new era of global Black leadership rooted in legacy, inclusion, and innovation.

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SOURCE The Burns Brothers, Inc.

VIENNA, Va., Aug. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Everged, a leading innovator in sustainable energy solutions and electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure, today announced its selection of i-charging as the provider of choice for its DC fast charging hardware offerings. This technology-driven decision reinforces Everged’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge, reliable, and secure charging solutions to the EV market, as part of the Company’s comprehensive portfolio of energy offerings.

Through this partnership, Everged will bring to market nearly 1,000 technologically advanced DC fast charging systems to the U.S. market, backed by a strong performance record across Europe. i-charging’s hardware is engineered for efficiency and reliability, with power output from up to 50 to 400 kW per plug—dramatically reducing charging time and improving the user experience for EV drivers.

“We chose i-charging due to their unmatched technology, reliability, and cybersecurity standards,” said Jefferson W. Smith, CEO at Everged. “Their DC fast-charging solutions are among the most advanced globally, offering dual independent communication channels, continuous remote monitoring capabilities, and intelligent cable management systems. This partnership empowers us to offer unparalleled reliability and user experience in EV charging.”

i-charging technology features robust certifications, ensuring compliance with international standards for safety, quality, and cybersecurity, including ISO 9001, ISO 27001, and CTEP metering certification. The dual communication channels integrated into these chargers provide continuous connectivity and real-time monitoring, enabling rapid troubleshooting, predictive maintenance, and superior operational uptime.

“Our collaboration with Everged positions i-charging to set new benchmarks in EV infrastructure quality and reliability,” Pedro Silva, CEO of i-charging, added. “We are excited to deliver these cutting-edge solutions to our customers, accelerating the adoption of electric vehicles through unmatched charging experiences.”

Everged’s comprehensive EV charging solutions address the growing demand for advanced, secure, and efficient EV infrastructure across various sectors, including commercial properties, municipalities, and enterprise customers nationwide. Including the recently announced City of San Diego Public EV Charging Program, in which Everged will be providing turnkey charging infrastructure to the City for a period of 10 years.

About Everged:

Everged is a leading provider of sustainable energy solutions, specializing in the development and deployment of EV charging infrastructure. Committed to advancing clean transportation, Everged partners with public and private entities to create accessible and efficient charging networks.

For more information, please visit www.everged.com

About i-Charging:

i-charging was born in 2019 from the desire to create technology-based products, enhancing innovation, differentiation, design, and quality within the most sophisticated segments of electric mobility infrastructure.

Aiming to be a technological reference in the electric mobility sector, it believes in the possibility of achieving more sustainably by adopting new tools and methodologies and leveraging its know-how with global ambition.

For more information, please visit www.i-charging.tech.

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SOURCE Everged, LLC

One of the largest solar-plus-storage installations in the U.S.,
the landmark Eland project will generate 7% of Los Angeles’s electricity
and deliver homegrown, reliable power to more than 266,000 homes annually

MOJAVE, Calif. and SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., Aug. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Arevon Energy, Inc., a leading American energy developer, owner, and operator, hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the completion of the company’s Eland Solar-plus-Storage Project, which is now fully operational. Arevon’s two-phase Eland project, sited near Mojave in Kern County, is one of the nation’s largest solar-plus-storage facilities, with total capital costs of more than $2 billion. Combined, the Eland 1 & 2 projects will be able to power more than 266,000 homes annually, and overall, can provide 7% of the total electricity requirements for the city of Los Angeles.

Arevon developed and will own and operate the Eland Solar-plus-Storage Project, which has a total nameplate capacity of 758 megawatts (MWdc) of solar paired with 300 MW/1,200 megawatt hours of energy storage. Eland 1 reached commercial operation at the end of 2024, and Eland 2 recently commenced full operation — together, the two phases comprise 1.36 million solar panels and 172 lithium iron phosphate batteries (LFP). The batteries, which were manufactured locally in Lathrop, California, efficiently and quickly discharge power during times of peak demand, strengthening California’s energy security, especially in the face of extreme heat, brownouts, and blackouts. LFP battery technology also offers enhanced safety compared to traditional lithium-ion batteries. In commercial use since 2019, LFP batteries have had no reported fire incidents, making them the reliable and secure choice for utility-scale storage. Cumulatively, Eland 1 & 2 generated approximately 1,000 jobs to construct the facility, and the project is expected to disburse more than $36 million in local government payments throughout its lifetime, which can support schools, public services, and necessary infrastructure enhancements.

Public officials, utility representatives, community leaders, and local stakeholders gathered to mark the project’s operations at an on-site ribbon-cutting ceremony. Sharing remarks at the event were Mayor Karen Bass, City of Los Angeles; Trelynd Bradley, Deputy Director for Innovation and Emerging Technologies at the California Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz); Janisse Quiñones, Chief Executive Officer and Chief Engineer at Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP); Daniel E. Garcia, Executive Director at Southern California Public Power Authority (SCPPA); Scott Mellon, General Manager at Glendale Water and Power (GWP); Chris Hannan, President at the State Building and Construction Trades Council of California; Lorelei Oviatt, AICP, Director at Kern County Planning and Natural Resources, and Justin Johnson, Chief Operating Officer at Arevon. Kevin Smith, Chief Executive Officer at Arevon, served as the event’s master of ceremonies.

California is on track to achieve 100% clean energy by 2035, with 57% of the state’s electricity already coming from renewable resources. Arevon’s Eland project further advances California’s renewable energy goals, particularly as the state works to phase out other technologies. 

“We are building a greener Los Angeles. The Eland Solar-plus-Storage Project alone will generate enough power to serve more than 266,000 homes in Los Angeles and push the city’s clean energy share above 60 percent, a major milestone in L.A.’s transition to being powered by 100% clean energy by 2035,” Mayor Bass said. “This is L.A.’s clean energy future — I want to thank LADWP, Arevon, and all of the partners who made this occasion possible.”

“Bringing Eland Solar-plus-Storage online is a defining achievement for Arevon. Not only is Eland the largest project in our portfolio, but it also delivers reliable and affordable energy at scale and reflects our team’s leadership in advancing California’s renewables-forward future,” Smith said. “Strong collaboration among the project’s landowners and community members as well as our power offtake and financing partners was essential in getting us to this moment. We are pleased to deliver homegrown, stable, and secure power to Los Angelenos and contribute to the state’s renewable energy goals — all the while supporting local communities and investing in long-term sustainability.”

The energy generated and stored by Eland is under long-term agreements with SCPPA, who delivers it to its members, LADWP and GWP.

“This celebration marks a critical step toward LADWP’s accelerated goal of 100% clean energy by 2035,” Quiñones said. “The Eland project represents what we need to achieve this objective — scale, energy storage, reliability, and innovation — while demonstrating what is possible when public and private sectors partner to benefit our city and the environment.”

“Eland is a game-changer for Glendale. It’s not just about clean energy — it’s about building a smarter, more resilient power grid that meets the moment. With cutting-edge solar and storage in one of the biggest projects of its kind, we’re locking in affordable, 100% carbon-free energy for our community and setting the pace for what a modern utility should look like,” Mellon said.

“The Eland project exemplifies what’s possible when public power agencies and innovative private partners work together to deliver transformative energy solutions. This milestone is not just about megawatts, it’s about building a more sustainable, reliable future for the communities and members we serve,” Garcia said.

To date — and this is just the beginning — Arevon has contributed to several community-centered initiatives in the Eland Solar-plus-Storage project area. As the long-term owner and operator of the project, Arevon is committed to continuing its support for local programs throughout the life of the project. In partnership with the Safe Haven Kid’s League of California City, Arevon has helped provide food security, school supplies, infant care items, and workforce reentry programs. The company also supports the I Love California City Economic Development Group, funding infrastructure upgrades and clean-up events for Balsitis Park to promote outdoor activities and community well-being.

Arevon is a nationwide renewable energy developer and a leader in California with more than 3.7 gigawatts in operation, representing more than $5 billion in capital investments. The company recently issued other announcements celebrating achievements at several of its California projects, including the start of operations at its Peregrine Energy Storage Project, its Eland 1 Solar-plus-Storage Project, its Vikings Solar-plus-Storage Project, and its Condor Energy Storage Project. Arevon also announced construction proceedings at its Nighthawk Energy Storage Project and executed offtake agreements for its Cormorant Energy Storage Project and its Avocet Energy Storage Project. Condor Energy Storage in Grand Terrace received the North America Storage Deal of the Year Award, and Vikings Solar-plus-Storage in Imperial County was the recipient of IJGlobal’s Renewables Deal of the Year – Energy Storage Award.

About Arevon Energy, Inc.
Arevon is a U.S. energy leader committed to powering America with affordable, reliable, and secure homegrown energy. Headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona, and with a regional office in New York City, the company’s experienced and dedicated staff develops, finances, builds, owns, and operates renewable energy projects nationwide. With a strong track record in utility-scale solar and energy storage, Arevon is a trusted partner to utilities and businesses seeking cost-effective, sustainable energy solutions. By prioritizing American manufacturing and domestic energy production, the company invests in U.S. jobs, strengthens local economies, and advances the country’s energy independence.

Arevon owns and operates more than 5.3 gigawatts (GW) of solar and energy storage projects across 17 states, representing more than $10 billion in capital investment, and is constructing approximately 1 GW of new capacity. The company also partnered with local utilities to develop and build 480 megawatts of solar energy, ensuring each project was successfully integrated into their communities. Within the last two years, Arevon has completed more than $3.8 billion in project financings and closed on a $600 million corporate revolver to fund continued company growth. With a 9 GW development portfolio and continued investment in new projects, Arevon is solidifying its role as a leader in powering an American energy future. For more information, visit arevonenergy.com.

About Southern California Public Power Authority
Southern California Public Power Authority (SCPPA) is a Joint Powers Authority, created in 1980, for the purpose of providing joint planning, financing, construction, and operation of transmission and generation projects. Comprised of eleven municipal utilities and one irrigation district, SCPPA’s Members serve more than 5 million Californians (2 million customers) across a service area of 9,000 square miles. SCPPA’s Members supply 16% of California’s power.

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SOURCE Arevon

AUSTIN, Texas, Aug. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Cell Phones for Soldiers (CPFS), a national nonprofit dedicated to providing cost-free communication services and connectivity support to veterans and active-duty military members, is proud to announce the signing of a lease for its new national headquarters in Austin, Texas.

This pivotal move marks a bold step forward in the organization’s mission to bridge the digital divide for America’s Bravest. The new facility not only symbolizes growth but represents the next level of operational excellence, powered by cutting-edge automation technologies and deepened mission-driven strategic partnerships.

Investing in Robotics and Technology to Empower the Mission

At the core of this transition is a major investment in automation and advanced technology, which will allow CPFS to internalize its phone donation processing operations. By bringing all logistics in-house and eliminating reliance on third-party logistics (3PL) providers, CPFS is significantly reducing overhead, increasing transparency, and unlocking more funds to directly serve veterans.

A customizable suite of software and robotics solutions—enhanced by proprietary AI and machine learning—provides unmatched efficiency and quality assurance. This transformative technology enables CPFS to independently process, recycle, and repurpose donated devices while giving full inventory control and end-to-end transparency to the nonprofit and its donors.

“Internalizing our operations supported by advanced technology allows us to make informed decisions that better serve our mission,” said Rob Bergquist, Co-Founder of Cell Phones for Soldiers. “Every dollar we maximize with better technology and streamlined operations is a dollar that goes directly toward changing a veteran’s life.”

Reaching New Milestones with Purpose-Driven Partners

CPFS’s impact is amplified through collaborations with industry-leading, values-aligned partners including Apex Wireless, Patriot Mobile, Sequoia Wireless, and OnComms. These partnerships ensure national coverage, enabling the organization to stay agile, scalable, and responsive to the unique and evolving connectivity needs of veterans nationwide.

Currently, CPFS has 4,000 mobile lines available for veterans, with a goal to connect at least 30,000 veterans in the next three years. The nonprofit will take a major step toward that goal on August 8–9, 2025, when it teams up with strategic partner, Seqouia Wireless to provide free phones and service to 600 homeless veterans in San Diego, California.

“Investing in strategic, mission-aligned partners scales our impact beyond just one device or one call—we’re building a national network of care,” said CPFS Executive Director, Rob Bergquist. “From mental health to housing to employment, we are connecting veterans to life-saving resources.”

The Bridge That Saves Lives

In today’s hyper-connected world, access to communication is more than a convenience—it’s a lifeline. CPFS is determined to make sure veterans never feel alone in times of crisis. Since 9/11, more than 150,000 veterans have died by suicide, emphasizing the urgent need for access to mental health support.

As a cornerstone of its mission, CPFS ensures that every veteran we serve has access to crisis lines, including the 1-800 Suicide Hotline, and comprehensive connectivity solutions spanning healthcare, employment, housing support, and vital family connections.

“Cell Phones for Soldiers is the bridge—connecting veterans to the resources that save lives,” added Rob Bergquist. “We aren’t just providing cell phones—we are providing hope, support, and the chance to make a different decision in their darkest hour.”

Two Decades of Impact—and Just Getting Started

Since its founding in 2004, Cell Phones for Soldiers has grown into a national force for good, always evolving to meet the challenges faced by our veteran community. With this latest move to Austin and new investments in automation, strategic partnerships, and donor transparency, CPFS is setting the foundation for the next 20 years of impact.

To follow our journey, support our mission, or learn how to get involved, please visit www.cellphonesforsoldiers.com and follow us on social media.

Media Contact:

Rob Bergquist

Executive Director

rob@cellphonesforsoldiers.com 

(800) 426-1031

Cell Phones for Soldiers – Connecting America’s Bravest for Over 20 Years

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SOURCE CELL PHONES FOR SOLDIERS

BEIJING, Aug. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — British online content creator Jack Forsdike witnessed achievements of Chinese dairy giant Mengniu in combating desertification during his recent visit to the Ulan Buh Desert in north China’s Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. 

To fight desertification, Mengniu has transformed over 200 square kilometers of desert into green pasture in recent years, planting more than 97 million trees. The project demonstrates how Chinese enterprises make ESG efforts to better the environment around them.

In July, Jack toured the green pasture, which now provides forage grasses for cows at Mengniu’s world-leading organic raw milk production base.

Mengniu’s “grass to pasture to milk” organic system has been recognized by the UN Global Compact, the world’s largest corporate social responsibility initiative, as a world-class corporate carbon-neutrality roadmap.

Committed to green development, the dairy giant vows to peak carbon emissions by 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2050 while continuing to deliver premium dairy products to the world.

Original link: https://en.imsilkroad.com/p/346988.html

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SOURCE Xinhua Silk Road