Tag: PR Newswire

How students can support veterans in their communities

MISSION, Kan., June 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — (Family Features) For those who have served in the U.S. armed forces, transitioning back to civilian life can be a challenge. However, community support can help make the transition easier for many veterans and provide those who offer that support – particularly young people – with rewarding opportunities and insight.

Take, for example, Daniel Finney, who started volunteering at a local Department of Veterans Affairs hospital where his mother worked when he was 13 years old. At first, his mother simply wanted him to learn from the veterans and their experiences, but volunteering changed the trajectory of Finney’s life.

He volunteered almost daily for the next 10 years, even inviting his friends to join him at the hospital. From that experience, Finney built valuable skills and chose to pursue a career as a physician’s assistant.

“I chose to volunteer at the hospital not only because it was a great opportunity, but because I wanted to give back to our nation’s heroes who I felt were too often overlooked,” Finney said. “In addition, volunteering with dedicated health care professionals allowed me to discover the actual purpose for my current career path.”

Not only did Finney reap personal rewards from volunteering and make a real difference in the lives of veterans, he also received tens of thousands of dollars in college scholarship money from DAV (Disabled American Veterans). The organization annually offers $110,000 in scholarships to student volunteers to be used toward accredited higher learning, including universities, colleges, community colleges and vocational schools.

“I look at this scholarship as another door opening up,” Finney said. “This has allowed me to do so many things. One of them is to pay for college. I want to continue to be a civil servant wherever I go. I want to continue to help veterans, whether that’s a part of my job or whether I’m still volunteering. It can be working at a hospital or helping with a food drive for the homeless veteran community. It can be anything. I now have that desire ingrained in me to continue to serve our veterans.”

These scholarships are open to students age 21 or younger who have contributed a minimum of 100 cumulative volunteer hours credited through DAV or DAV Auxiliary. Students can be nominated or may apply with the inclusion of an essay on what volunteering for veterans means to them. Learn more at DAVScholarships.org.

For students, or anyone interested in giving back, consider a few other ideas for supporting the nation’s veterans.

Express Your Gratitude
Simply saying “thank you” can go a long way in expressing gratitude to veterans. Whether it’s through a handwritten note, a heartfelt conversation or a public acknowledgment at a community event, showing appreciation can help veterans feel valued and recognized for their service.

Raise Awareness for Veterans’ Needs
Learning about the challenges veterans face, such as service-related health issues, homelessness and underemployment, then advocating for supportive legislation and programming can go a long way toward improving their situations.

For example, Amelia Marcum, another DAV scholarship recipient, developed a Native American veterans resource guide designed to provide veterans with key information about federal, state, community and tribal-based programs. She worked closely with Vietnam veteran and North Dakota state Sen. Richard Marcellais to bring the guide, which is now used by five tribal veterans resource service centers, to fruition.

“Volunteering to serve the veteran community has been immensely transformative for me,” said Marcum, a direct descendent of the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians. “I discovered a profound sense of purpose in elevating support systems for Native veterans, a community that serves at the highest rates among ethnic groups yet often faces significant challenges in accessing the benefits they rightfully deserve.”

Support Veteran-Owned Businesses
Many veterans transition into entrepreneurship after their military careers, and your patronage not only helps their businesses thrive, but also puts money back into the local community. Look for veteran-owned businesses or use online directories to find veteran entrepreneurs when searching for specific goods and services.

Michael French
mfrench@familyfeatures.com
1-888-824-3337
editors.familyfeatures.com

About Family Features Editorial Syndicate
A leading source for high-quality food, lifestyle and home and garden content, Family Features provides readers with topically and seasonally relevant tips, takeaways, information, recipes, videos, infographics and more. Find additional articles and information at Culinary.net and eLivingToday.com.

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SOURCE Family Features Editorial Syndicate

ENGLEWOOD, Colo., June 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — FlexPatio, a pioneer in smart outdoor living solutions, today announced its new flagship product, the POWER+ Motorized Pergola, setting a new benchmark for luxury, customization, and innovation in the U.S. outdoor living market.

As outdoor living becomes increasingly integral to modern lifestyles, the POWER+ integrates seamless electric automation, modular aluminum construction, and architectural-grade finishes—transforming patios, gardens, and poolside areas into all-season, multifunctional retreats.

The POWER+ outdoor pergola is designed for U.S. homeowners who want to make the most of their backyards—whether hosting gatherings, enjoying quiet family moments, or embracing year-round comfort under the open sky. From California’s sunny backyards to the coastal homes of the Southeast, it’s the perfect choice for anyone seeking a smart, stylish, and weather-defying outdoor space.

POWER+ revolutionizes pergola installation with its innovative plug-and-play electrical system built into every modular component. Each beam includes an internal power channel, eliminating the need for exposed wiring. Pre-installed connection points provide instant access to three 110V outlets and a fast-charging port—all designed for effortless setup and enhanced safety.

The system also supports immediate integration of features like LED lighting, motorized louvers, and optional enclosure options ranging from roller shades, sliding glass doors to privacy shutter walls. This intelligent design enables remarkable installation efficiency—a four-person team can complete the installation in just 2.5 hours, with zero specialized electrical work needed.

This combination of installation simplicity and electrical convenience makes POWER+ Pergola Kit an ideal choice for contractors, landscape architects, and homeowners who value time efficiency and seek reliable, flexible, high-end outdoor solutions.

To redefine outdoor living excellence, the POWER+ goes beyond its advanced motorized functionality to offer a comprehensive outdoor living ecosystem. Homeowners can personalize their space with a rich variety of accessories to create a fully-equipped “outdoor living room”. Beyond that, thoughtful engineering details like the hidden drainage system and reinforced louvers provide protection from the elements while maintaining timeless architectural elegance. 

“POWER+ represents a significant leap in how we think about outdoor architecture,” said Alex, Founder of FlexPatio. “We’ve created a sophisticated outdoor system that combines elegant design with intelligent engineering. Every component, from the customizable options to the simplified installation, reflects our dedication to delivering premium outdoor solutions without sacrificing quality or performance.”

Recent market data reveals U.S. homeowners invested over $60 billion into outdoor living improvements in 2024, with smart structures and electric louvered aluminum pergola emerging as one of the fastest-growing categories. POWER+ is poised to meet this rising demand with its cutting-edge design and luxury appeal.

Available in both standard and custom sizes, POWER+ offers nationwide accessibility and dedicated support through FlexPatio’s growing network of authorized dealers.

For more information about FlexPatio, or the POWER+ Motorized Pergola Kits, please visit www.flexpatio.com.

About FlexPatio
FlexPatio is a U.S.-based leader in motorized pergola technology, offering premium-quality pergola kits with smarter features at a competitive price. Our mission is to transform backyards into functional outdoor living spaces where technology meets nature. With a focus on reliability, customization, and sustainability, FlexPatio is redefining smart outdoor living across North America.

Website: www.flexpatio.com
Email: support@flexpatio.com 
Phone: +1 213-456-9168
Media Contact: Facebook | Instagram | TikTok | YouTube

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SOURCE FlexPatio

WALNUT CREEK, Calif., June 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Heffernan Foundation, the charitable giving program of Heffernan Insurance Brokers, is excited to announce the Frank and Lenore Heffernan scholarship initiative that will award a one-time $20,000 scholarship to five individuals each year over the next three years.

A total of 15 recipients will be selected with a combined investment of $300,000 in educational funding. The goal of the program is to help remove financial barriers to higher education for students who demonstrate academic promise, leadership potential, and a commitment to making a positive impact in their communities. This initiative reflects Heffernan Foundation’s commitment to expanding access to higher education and supporting the next generation of changemakers.

The Frank and Lenore Heffernan Scholarship will be available exclusively to students attending ICA Cristo Rey Academy (San Francisco), Cristo Rey De La Salle High School (Oakland), and Cristo Rey San Jose Jesuit High School. These schools are part of the national Cristo Rey Network, which provides underserved students with a rigorous college-preparatory education and valuable work experience.

“This program is about unlocking opportunity,” said Michelle Lonaker-Lavine, Philanthropy Executive Director at Heffernan Foundation. “We’re proud to support individuals who are ready to make a lasting impact in their communities and beyond.”

About Heffernan Foundation
Heffernan Foundation’s mission is to change futures through access to education, reduce homelessness and food deficiency through relevant nonprofit collaboration, and promote community and employee engagement.

Heffernan Foundation is the charitable giving program of Heffernan Insurance Brokers, headquartered in Walnut Creek, Calif. Employee-owned, the company has been among the Top Greater Bay Area Philanthropists since 2003.

For more information, visit www.heffernanfoundation.org or call 925.295.2575. FEIN 71-1010693

About Heffernan Insurance Brokers
Heffernan Insurance Brokers, founded in 1988, is one of the largest independent insurance brokerage firms in the United States, providing comprehensive business insurance, personal insurance, employee benefits, and financial services solutions to a wide range of businesses and individuals. Headquartered in Walnut Creek, Calif., Heffernan has a nationwide presence specializing in customized solutions to serve its clients’ different needs in virtually every industry.

Heffernan has been named on the insurance industry’s ‘Best Agency to Work For’ list, and consistently named a ‘Top Corporate Philanthropist’.

For more information, visit www.heffins.com. License #0564249

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SOURCE Heffernan Foundation

CHICAGO, June 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Global Sustainable Aviation Fuel Market size is projected to be valued at USD 658.18 million in 2023 and reach USD 15.85 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 57.5% according to a new report by The Research Insights. The market has grown because of heightened environmental awareness along with regulatory support and rising demand for sustainable aviation fuels in both commercial and military sectors.

The report runs an in-depth analysis of market trends, key players, and future opportunities. In general, the Sustainable Aviation Fuel Market growth of 57.5% comprises a vast array of Fuel Type, Technology, Aircraft Type, Platform, and Geography which are expected to register strength during the coming years.

For More Information and To Stay Updated on The Latest Developments in The Global Sustainable Aviation Fuel Market Size, Download FREE Sample Pages:  https://www.theresearchinsights.com/request_sample?id=12244

Market Overview and Growth Trajectory:

Sustainable Aviation Fuel Market Growth: According to an exhaustive report by The Research Insights, the Sustainable Aviation Fuel Market is experiencing significant growth. Several environmental, regulatory, technological, and economic forces combine to drive strong growth in the global Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) market. The aviation industry faces growing demands for decarbonization because of international climate agreements including the Paris Agreement and ICAO’s CORSIA initiative. The adoption of SAF is speeding up due to government mandates and incentives like tax credits and blending obligations in key regions including the EU and U.S. The surge of sustainability pledges from major airlines and logistics firms has resulted in increased long-term SAF offtake contracts. Through technological developments in feedstock processing which include waste-based methods like HEFA and advanced Power-to-Liquid (PtL) fuel production, SAF production becomes both more scalable and cost-efficient. The increasing investor attention on eco-friendly aviation technologies together with rising R&D funding creates innovative business structures and collaborative partnerships. SAF emerges as a crucial element for sustainable aviation because the public’s increased environmental consciousness and eco-conscious travel trends strengthen the need for cleaner aviation solutions.

Air travel faces strict carbon emission rules alongside worldwide climate agreements:
The main factor propelling sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) market growth stems from increasing demands on the aviation industry to shrink its carbon footprint while meeting global climate objectives. The aviation sector produces around 2–3% of worldwide CO₂ emissions yet this figure will continue growing along with air travel expansion unless measures are implemented to control it. Aircraft emissions reduction targets are being enforced through strict new regulations from governments and international regulatory bodies including the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the European Union. ICAO leads CORSIA which requires airlines to balance emissions that exceed 2020 levels while promoting SAF usage to achieve reduction targets. Flights within the EU must adhere to binding SAF blending mandates under the European Green Deal and Fit for 55 packages. Current regulatory frameworks force airline operators and fuel suppliers to make substantial investments in the production and adoption of SAF to move toward net-zero aviation by 2050.

For Detailed Market Insights, Visit: https://www.theresearchinsights.com/reports/sustainable-aviation-fuel-market-12244 

The airline industry is making increased commitments toward sustainability which aligns with corporate Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) objectives:
Airlines and aircraft manufacturers are actively transitioning to cleaner fuels because investor and customer expectations demand better environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance. Delta, Lufthansa, British Airways, and United Airlines among other major airlines have set challenging goals to reach net-zero emissions by 2050 with SAF as a key component in their decarbonization strategies. These companies are forging extended offtake agreements with SAF producers while simultaneously co-investing in production facilities and investigating partnerships with technology firms to ensure a continuous supply of low-carbon fuels. Boeing and Airbus have made commitments to certify commercial aircraft for full SAF operation by 2030. Airlines with strong environmental credentials are becoming preferred choices for corporate travellers and logistics providers which pushes carriers to adopt SAF in their operations. Industry-led initiatives demonstrate the increasing agreement that SAF adoption serves as both an environmental necessity and a competitive edge.

Advancements in SAF production technologies require sustained investment to develop new pathways:
Development in different production technologies for SAF propels its economic feasibility and ability to scale in the marketplace. The conversion of various feedstocks like used cooking oil and agricultural residues into jet fuel is possible through approved methods including HEFA (Hydroprocessed Esters and Fatty Acids), FT-SPK (Fischer–Tropsch Synthetic Paraffinic Kerosene), and Alcohol-to-Jet (ATJ). The production of these fuels results in up to 80% lower carbon emissions throughout their lifecycle than traditional jet fuel. The anticipated decline in SAF costs will result from technological maturity, enabling broader operator accessibility. Furthermore, significant investment is flowing into SAF innovation: State entities provide tax incentives and funding support while research grants fuel innovation but private investors fund new SAF startups which work on synthetic e-fuels and algae-derived fuels. The planned construction of large-scale SAF refineries across North America and Europe will boost supply while driving market growth.

Stay Updated on The Latest Sustainable Aviation Fuel Market Trends: https://www.theresearchinsights.com/request_sample?id=12244

Geographical Insights: 

North America maintained its dominance by securing more than 44.0% of the regional market share. Countries like the U.S. and Canada are investing actively in innovative projects designed to produce renewable aviation fuel as part of their efforts to lower carbon emissions. This step becomes essential to address increasing air travel needs while reducing environmental damage. The region’s abundance of sustainable aviation fuel centers along with favorable legislation establishes a foundation for significant growth because of initiatives to reduce aviation-related emissions.

The Asia Pacific region stands ready to experience significant growth in the near future due to increasing attention to sustainability and environmental stewardship. The aviation industry’s dedication to minimizing carbon emissions drives infrastructure growth in low-cost airlines and emerging economies which will support sustainable fuel adoption. Both public and private sector investments in developing aviation facilities throughout the region will boost market expansion during the forecast period.

Global Sustainable Aviation Fuel Market Segmentation and Geographical Insights:

• Based on Fuel Type, the sustainable aviation fuel market is divided into, Biofuel, Hydrogen Fuel, Power to Liquid Fuel, and Gas-to-Liquid. The biofuels segment has emerged as a leading contributor to the market’s overall revenue, accounting for over 76.0% of total sales.
• Based on Technology, the sustainable aviation fuel market is divided into, HEFA-SPK, FT-SPK, HFS-SIP, and ATJ-SPK. The Fischer-Tropsch (FT) Synthetic Paraffinic Kerosene (SPK) technology dominates the market with an impressive share of over 48.0% in terms of revenue.
• Based on Aircraft Type, the sustainable aviation fuel market is divided into, Fixed Wings, Rotorcraft, and Others. The fixed wings segment dominated the market, accounting for over 40% of total revenue. However, the growth trajectory of the sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) market for fixed-wing aircraft is influenced by several dynamic factors.
• Based on Platform, the sustainable aviation fuel market is divided into, Commercial, Regional Transport Aircraft, Military Aviation, Business & General Aviation, and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles. The commercial sector has long been the driving force behind the revenue share, accounting for more than 30.0% of total sales.
• The Sustainable Aviation Fuel Market is segmented into five major regions: North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and Middle East & Africa.

Purchase Premium Copy of Global Sustainable Aviation Fuel Market Size and Growth Report (2023-2030) at: https://www.theresearchinsights.com/license?id=12244

Key Players and Competitive Landscape:

The Global Sustainable Aviation Fuel Market is characterized by the presence of several major players, including:

• Aemetis Inc.
• AVFUEL CORPORATION
• Fulcrum BioEnergy
• Gevo
• TotalEnergies
• LanzaTech
• Neste
• Preem AB
• Sasol Limited
• SkyNRG B.V.
• World Energy, LLC

These companies are adopting strategies such as new product launches, joint ventures, and geographical expansion to maintain their competitive edge in the market.

Global Sustainable Aviation Fuel Market Recent Developments and Innovations:

• In February 2025: Neste and DHL Group entered a partnership to assess the use of Neste’s renewable solutions including renewable diesel (HVO100) and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) to support DHL’s goal of reaching net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. The aim is to build a commercial model for DHL to procure around 300,000 tons of unblended SAF per year by 2030.
• In February 2025: Gevo and Axens signed a joint development agreement to accelerate the development and commercialization of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) via the ethanol-to-jet (ETJ) pathway. The Axens Jetanol technology and Gevo’s ethanol-to-olefins (ETO) technology will be integrated.
• In January 2025: Topsoe signed an agreement with Chuangui New Energy Company to supply technology and services for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and renewable diesel.
• In December 2024: Shell and Yilkins signed an agreement to integrate their technologies for sustainable aviation fuel production.
• In December 2024: Neste and Air New Zealand signed an agreement for the supply of 30 million liters of unblended Neste MY Sustainable Aviation Fuel. This is Air New Zealand’s largest SAF purchase to date. The fuel will be used at Los Angeles (LAX) and San Francisco (SFO) international airports until February 2026.

For Region-Specific Market Data, Check Out Brief Sample Pages: https://www.theresearchinsights.com/request_sample?id=12244

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. What is the forecasted market size of the Sustainable Aviation Fuel Market in 2030?
   The forecasted market size of the Sustainable Aviation Fuel Market is USD 15.85 billion in 2030.
2. Who are the leading players in the Sustainable Aviation Fuel Market?
   The key players in the Sustainable Aviation Fuel Market include, Aemetis Inc.; AVFUEL CORPORATION; Fulcrum BioEnergy; Gevo; TotalEnergies; LanzaTech; Neste; Preem AB; Sasol Limited; SkyNRG B.V.; and World Energy, LLC.
3. What are the major drivers for the Sustainable Aviation Fuel Market?
   Several key factors are driving this expansion, including the increasing awareness of environmental concerns, coupled with regulatory support and a growing demand for clean, sustainable fuels in the commercial and military aviation industries.
4. Which is the largest region during the forecasted period in the Sustainable Aviation Fuel Market?
   The North America maintained its dominance by securing more than 44.0% of the regional market share.
5. Which is the largest segment, by fuel type, during the forecasted period in the Sustainable Aviation Fuel Market?
   The biofuels segment has emerged as a leading contributor to the market’s overall revenue, accounting for over 76.0% of total sales.

Conclusion:

The aviation industry’s effort to lower carbon emissions while meeting global climate targets is driving the swift evolution of the Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) market. Advances in biofuel and synthetic fuel technologies together with regulatory pressures and airline decarbonization commitments make Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) an essential element of eco-friendly air travel. The urgency to lessen aviation’s environmental impact fuels increased investment in new feedstock research and development as well as scalable production methods. SAF integrates seamlessly into current aircraft systems which allows for quick benefits because extensive modifications are unnecessary. The collaboration between airlines, fuel producers and governments play a crucial role in expanding production capabilities while minimizing financial expenses. Real-time emissions tracking, lifecycle analysis and transparent certification mechanisms become more prominent as SAF becomes part of wider sustainability strategies. The aviation sector stands to be transformed by Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) which will act as a key component in net-zero and green growth strategies due to its alignment with circular economies and renewable energy sources.

Need A Diverse Region or Sector? Customize Research to Suit Your Requirement: https://www.theresearchinsights.com/Ask_For_Customization?id=12244

The report from The Research Insights, therefore, provides several stakeholders— airlines, aircraft manufacturers, regulatory authorities, fuel producers, and environmental organizations—with valuable insights into how to successfully navigate this evolving market landscape and unlock new opportunities.

With projected growth to US$ 15.85 billion by 2030, the Global Sustainable Aviation Fuel Market represents a significant opportunity for biotechnology firms, renewable energy companies, chemical engineering startups, and venture capital investors.

Check out more related studies published by The Research Insights:

• Renewable Aviation Fuel Market: According to a new report by The Research Insights, global renewable aviation fuel market is poised for significant growth, driven by fluctuations in crude oil prices and increasingly stringent environmental regulations. As conventional aviation fuels have become more expensive, manufacturers have been forced to explore alternative options, leading to a surge in research and development of cheaper, renewable alternatives.
• Aviation Adhesives and Sealants Market: According to a new report by The Research Insights, the Global Aviation Adhesives and Sealants Market is projected to expand at a CAGR of 6.2% by 2025, driven by the technological advancements that are elevating efficiency and safety standards in aircraft production.

Browse More related reports on Energy & Power Industry Market Reports – https://www.theresearchinsights.com/categories/energy-power

About Us:

The Research Insights provides thoroughly conducted research which is backed up by real-time statistics and data. Our experts are eager to help you with any information required under the sun. The key to our success is keeping abreast with the markets, industries, and ever-changing consumer trends that matter. Our market research professionals have in-depth knowledge and expertise across various domains that includes IT and Telecom, Emerging Technologies, Consumer Offerings, Manufacturing and Others. We are committed to reviewing the scope and procedure of the research studies that you select and provide you with an accurate guidance in order to assist you in taking the correct business decisions.

Contact Us:
If you have any queries about this report or if you would like further information, please contact us:

Contact Person: Kaushik Roy
E-mail: sales@theresearchinsights.com
Phone: +1-312-313-8080
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SOURCE The Research Insights

Storytelling takes root at Festival Beach Food Forest

DENVER, June 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — On Friday, June 20, Festival Beach Food Forest will host a free, open-to-all Summer Solstice gathering in collaboration with Tractor Beverage Company’s Mad Farmer Tour—a traveling celebration of food, farming, and imagination for a regenerative future.

The tour draws inspiration from poet-farmer Wendell Berry and his Mad Farmer poems, which championed imagination and deep reverence for the land. Tractor’s tour channels that same ethos—connecting communities through shared meals, storytelling, and hands-in-the-soil creativity.

“We wanted to plant something meaningful in Austin,” said Duke Stump, Chief Brand Officer at Tractor. “This is about bold ideas, hopeful stories, and the kind of community that makes real change possible.”

The evening will feature organic beverages from Tractor, live music, hands-on workshops, storytelling sessions, and conversations with artists, farmers, and food visionaries.

Special guests include:

• Dr. Ietef “DJ CAVEM” Vita – Eco hip-hop pioneer and vegan chef redefining food justice through beats and beets
• Leah Thomas – Ecofeminist and founder of Intersectional Environmentalist
  
• Chef Derrell Smith – Culinary storyteller and host of Mad Good Food on Tastemade

This Austin stop also marks the official debut of Tractor Beam, Tractor’s bold new Future Farmer’s Almanac—a literary platform rooted in what the brand calls soilpunk: visionary storytelling that blends climate optimism, fiction, and radical hope from the ground up.

“We see Tractor Beam as a call to the dreamers, soil-lovers, and future-builders,” said Claire Gustavson, co-editor of Tractor Beam. “It’s not just about imagining what’s possible—it’s about telling stories that allow us to see how we can grow it, together.”

“The Mad Farmer Tour was born to meet people where they are—on rural farms, urban gardens, and in the heart of their communities,” said Alex Ring, Community Director at Tractor. “Festival Beach Food Forest feels like the perfect expression of that ethos: a living, breathing space where people and plants grow side by side.”

Located along the shores of Lady Bird Lake, Festival Beach Food Forest is a public edible garden where visitors can forage freely. Designed using permaculture and regenerative principles, it’s a model for community stewardship and land-based learning—an oasis of what’s possible when humans work with nature, not against it.

Event Details:
Friday, June 20, 2025 — Summer Solstice
Festival Beach Food Forest, Austin, TX
Free & open to all | Family-friendly | Local food & music | Rain or shine

To RSVP or learn more, visit: drinktractor

About Tractor Beverage Company
Tractor Beverage Company crafts Certified Organic, Non-GMO drinks exclusively for foodservice. With the Organic Impact Tracker, Tractor brings radical transparency to every pour. Through the Mad Farmer Tour, the company sparks conversations around food, farming, and the future. With the Farmhand Foundation, Tractor helps farmers transition to organic farming and build healthier soils. Tractor exists to change the way foodservice drinks are made—and to invite people everywhere to fall in love with soil, again. For more information, visit drinktractor.com or follow @drinktractor on Instagram.

Media Contact
Sunshine Sachs Morgan & Lylis
396741@email4pr.com
956-763-6088

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SOURCE Tractor Beverage Company

Footwear Benefiting Creative Arts Program Now Available in Adult Sizing

FORT WORTH, Texas, June 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Cook Children’s and Twisted X®, a Twisted X Global Brands company, are reuniting to expand the Cook Children’s by Twisted X® Collection into adult sizes. The expansion follows the positive response to the original launch in 2023, which featured footwear designed by patients at Cook Children’s Medical Center.

“The partnership between Cook Children’s and Twisted X reaffirms our commitment to providing both patients and families with individualized resources tailored to their health care needs,” said Natalie Houghton, Director of National and Regional Partnerships. “We continually strive to provide compassionate care and are proud to come together with Twisted X who shares this philanthropic focus.”

Twisted X will continue to donate 100 percent of wholesale proceeds from every pair sold directly to Cook Children’s to benefit the Creative Arts Program. The program enables patients to explore new ways of expressing themselves through visual arts, connecting the creative arts with the art of healing. This initiative aims to help children relax, gain confidence, make choices, practice control, solve problems, adjust to the hospital, and achieve social, emotional, and physical goals. To date, $75,000 has been given back to the program, which served 2,700 patients in the last year.

“Partnering with Cook Children’s is a chance to make a positive change in our community and we’re proud to support the Creative Arts Program,” said Twisted X CEO Prasad Reddy. “We continue to believe that little steps can make a big impact and it’s been incredibly rewarding to see this collection embody the joy of footwear design.”

The updated collection includes two thoughtfully designed shoes created by patient-artists Brianna and Alex, who worked alongside Twisted X Designer Tuan Le to bring their visions to life. Each pair is named after the young designer and represents their dream shoe—a lightweight, slip-resistant design tailored for comfort and style. These shoes are ideal for medical staff, patient families, and supporters of Cook Children’s everywhere.

To celebrate the new launch, Cook Children’s and Twisted X will host a special event today at Cook Children’s Medical Center – Fort Worth. The event will honor the patient designers and provide a fun, interactive experience for patients and families at the hospital.

The collection will be available in the gift shops at Cook Children’s medical centers in Fort Worth and Prosper. To learn more about the special collection, visit twistedx.com/pages/cook-childrens.

About Cook Children’s 

Cook Children’s is more than a health care system: we strive to be an extension of your family, growing with your child from their first steps to adulthood. By collaborating to deliver on our Promise—to improve the well-being of every child in our care and our communities, we connect the dots for our patients. Between primary and specialty. Between home and medical home. Between short-term care and long-term health.

Based in Fort Worth, Texas, we’re 10,000+ dedicated team members strong, passionately caring for over 2 million patient encounters each year. Our integrated, not-for-profit organization spans two medical centers (including our state-of-the-art location in Prosper), two surgery centers, a physician network, home health services and a health plan. It also includes Child Study Center at Cook Children’s, Cook Children’s Health Services Inc., and Cook Children’s Health Foundation. In 2024, Forbes named Cook Children’s the top health care employer in the U.S., and third on the list of ‘America’s Best Large Employers.’

And our impact extends beyond the borders of Texas. We proudly treat children from virtually every state in the nation and 32 countries. By seeing the world through the eyes of children and their families from all backgrounds, we’re able to shape health care suited to them: connected by kindness, imagination and respect—with an extra dose of magical wonder. Discover more at cookchildrens.org. 

About Twisted X®
Twisted X creates comfortable, handcrafted footwear across lifestyle, western, work, and outdoor categories. Known for their innovation, comfort technologies and philanthropy, Twisted X continues to champion causes that serve the greater good. Learn more at TwistedX.com.

About Twisted X Global Brands
Twisted X Global Brands is home to Twisted X®, Twisted X Work, Black Star boots, CellSole®, and licensed brand Wrangler Footwear. With a deep commitment to comfort, craftsmanship and sustainability, the company continues to shape the future of footwear. Learn more at TwistedXGlobalBrands.com.

Media Contacts:

Cook Children’s
Sydney Hanes
396765@email4pr.com
682-715-2814

Twisted X / TruePoint Communications
Morgan Gunnels
396765@email4pr.com
214-684-4890

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SOURCE Twisted X

TORONTO, June 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ – Blazesoft, service provider for established entertainment platforms across the U.S. and Canada, is proud to announce its support for the Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation’s (PMCF) annual Ride to Conquer Cancer. This transformative event raised vital funds for life-saving cancer research at The Princess Margaret Cancer Centre—one of the world’s top five cancer research hospitals.

The Ride to Conquer Cancer took place recently on Saturday, June 7, 2025, uniting thousands of cyclists of all different levels. This year’s theme, Carry The Fire, symbolized a shared determination to bring hope to a new generation of cancer patients, fueled by the groundbreaking work being done at Princess Margaret.

Blazesoft is proud to support this incredible initiative, donating a significant contribution and having several of its employees participate in the event. Each rider joined the journey with personal motivation, but all share one powerful mission: together, we Carry the Fire for cancer patients everywhere to create a world free from the fear of cancer.

“I’m honoured to be part of this year’s ride. A dear friend of mine — healthy, young, with no risk factors — was diagnosed with cancer and told she’d have to wait 10 months just for diagnostic testing. I’m riding for her and in support of our local cancer centers like Princess Margaret, which has already raised over $300 million for life-saving research,” said one of  Blazesoft’s ride participants. “It wouldn’t be possible without science, without support, and without millions of community members who continue to donate and push us closer to a world free from the fear of cancer.”

At the heart of the charity event was an unwavering commitment to support the two in five Canadians who will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime, and the many more who are affected by it. While significant progress has been made, cancer continues to be a growing challenge, with new diagnoses expected to rise by 77% by 2050.

Every year, PMCF works tirelessly —alongside its passionate community of supporters—to raise the funds needed to drive world-class research, redefine standards of care, and create better outcomes for patients around the globe.

Blazesoft’s involvement in the ride reflects its principle of corporate social responsibility, a core pillar of its business. Not only did the company proudly participate in this year’s event, but it played a key role with its fundraising efforts and rallying its employees and broader network to raise significant contributions in support of cancer research and care.

Blazesoft support for this event is a natural extension of its corporate responsibility mission statement: to invest in the health and well-being of its community members and make a meaningful impact that uplifts its employees and the communities it serves. Whether through donations to local GTA hospitals, employee-led fundraising, or volunteer initiatives, Blazesoft remains dedicated to carrying the fire forward.

About Blazesoft:

Blazesoft has established itself as a prominent service provider worldwide, delivering bespoke services to well-known e-commerce and entertainment companies across North America. Blazesoft’s solutions offer a tailored approach to managing user experience, compliance, and product innovation. Founded on a vision to deliver high-quality solutions as a B2B service provider, Blazesoft is committed to becoming the number one choice for partners by maintaining the highest standard of integrity, embracing modern-age technology, and delivering cutting-edge solutions. Learn more: www.blazesoft.ca

About Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation:

The Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation is Canada’s largest cancer charity. We’re dedicated to raising funds for Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, one of the world’s leading cancer research and treatment centres, known for its breakthrough discoveries that transform patient outcomes. Together, we Carry the Fire for cancer patients everywhere in our mission to create a world free from the fear of cancer. Through philanthropy, fundraising events, and our world-leading lottery program, we’re changing how the world understands, prevents, diagnoses, and treats cancer, benefitting patients at The Princess Margaret, throughout Canada, and around the world.  Learn more: www.thepmcf.ca

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SOURCE Blazesoft Ltd.

Company’s first grid-independent, solar-powered EV charging solution now live after six years of development

LAS CRUCES, N.M., June 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Sunnoo, a pioneering American clean energy company, today announced it has deployed its first utility-patented, grid-independent EV charging station—a fully renewable, self-contained unit that operates entirely on solar power. After six years of R&D and more than 20,000 hours of component testing, the flagship system is now undergoing real-world validation outside Sunnoo’s Las Cruces, New Mexico manufacturing facility. The launch marks a pivotal milestone in the shift toward sustainable transportation—offering a grid-independent, permit-free, and fast-deploying EV charging solution that can be placed nearly anywhere.

“This is a transformational moment for us,” said Chris Langathianos, Sunnoo’s CEO. “For the first time, our work is moving from concept and development into active, real-world use. The performance so far has met or exceeded expectations, and we are now actively seeking strategic partners to help scale commercialization. The technology is ready—and the market is demanding faster, cleaner, and more flexible charging infrastructure.”

Following four to six weeks of data collection, the station will be relocated to the Arrowhead Center at New Mexico State University, where it will deliver clean, off-grid EV and e-bike charging for students, faculty, and visitors.

Instant Setup, Zero Permitting

Unlike traditional EV infrastructure, which can require 12-24 months of permitting and grid connection, Sunnoo’s system is entirely self-contained and requires no permits, trenching, or electrical utility access. It can be delivered, installed, and operational in minutes — not weeks or months —an industry first that dramatically reduces barriers to EV infrastructure deployment.

Robust Specs and High Performance

• Solar Array: 6.5kW bifacial array with patented dual-axis, single-motor tracking turret
• Tracking Advantage: Captures 50–62% more energy than fixed solar arrays, with software-driven positioning that adds another 8–12% daily solar gain
• Battery Capacity: Configurable between 24–100 kWh; pilot unit currently operating with an 80 kWh pack
• Charging Output: Level 2 charging via two NACS connectors, powered by a 60A AC circuit
• Range Delivery: 8 kW+ charging rate, delivering up to 42 miles of range per hour of charge – up to 28% more charging power than the closest competitor (10–30 miles/hour)
• Trickle Charging: Optional 7.5kW 240VAC outlet for e-bikes or light electric vehicles
• Dimensions: Base footprint of 16 ft. x 8 ft., with a 20 ft. x 8 ft. solar canopy and 16 ft. height
• Base Weight: Over 9,000 lbs, with <9 psi surface load for versatile site placement
• Weather Resilience: Engineered for all-season deployment, including high-wind and remote environments

The modular system can support additional solar turrets, charging connections, and different battery sizes, making it highly adaptable for large-scale deployments.

Strategic Path Forward

With field testing already exceeding performance expectations, Sunnoo is actively seeking commercialization partners in higher education, municipalities, and commercial fleet operations. The team believes their solution offers the fastest and most flexible path to scalable, clean charging infrastructure in the US and beyond.

“Our mission from day one has been to eliminate the infrastructure hurdles that have slowed EV adoption,” said Martin Gero, Sunnoo’s Founder and Chief Technology Officer. “We engineered a solution that delivers fast, sustainable charging with no permitting delays, no construction headaches, and no grid dependency. After years of refinement, it’s incredibly rewarding to see our vision come to life on the ground.”

National Recognition

Sunnoo’s innovation was recently featured on The Blox, the world’s largest entrepreneurship docuseries. Selected from a pool of more than 150,000 applicants, the company competed as one of the top early-stage startups in the U.S. The new season is slated to premiere during Summer 2025.

About Sunnoo
Sunnoo is an American manufacturer of grid-independent electric vehicle charging solutions, microgrid solutions for military field use, and solar optimization technologies. With a mission to simplify and accelerate the transition to renewable transportation, Sunnoo’s patented innovations eliminate permitting and construction delays, reduce costs, and significantly increase solar efficiency. Learn more at www.sunnoo.co.

Contact:
Chris Langathianos
CEO, Sunnoo
chris@sunnoo.co | www.sunnoo.co

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SOURCE Sunnoo

• New Type 93AX Coaxial Separation Seal reduces nitrogen consumption by up to 80%
• Designed to maintain seal performance even in the event of multiple failure scenarios
• Developed to address customers’ pain points across the energy and process industries, including oil and gas, power generation and clean energy

SLOUGH, England, June 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — John Crane, a global leader in rotating equipment solutions, and a business of Smiths Group plc, today announced the launch of the Type 93AX Coaxial Separation Seal – a next generation dry gas sealing solution engineered to help customers reduce emissions, improve equipment reliability, and lower operational costs.

The Type 93AX builds on John Crane’s legacy of industrial sealing expertise with a robust, fail-safe design that remains operational even in the event of multiple failure scenarios. Designed based on direct customer feedback, test data indicates the mechanical seal reduces nitrogen consumption by up to 80%, compared to conventional radial separation seals – offering significant efficiency and sustainability benefits.

Addressing real industry challenges

Research has shown that contamination is a significant contributor to dry gas seal failures, making it one of the leading causes of unscheduled maintenance and equipment downtime. The Type 93AX is engineered to prevent oil ingress from the compressor bearing chamber, minimising this risk and supporting more reliable, continuous operation.   

According to Deloitte, unplanned downtime costs the global process industries an estimated $50 billion annually, with equipment failure responsible for 42% of that unplanned downtime. In energy and process applications, this can result in losses of up to $42 million per facility per year, on average.  

The Type 93AX is designed to mitigate both performance and financial risks by extending the reliability of the dry gas seal system and reducing demand on supporting infrastructure such as nitrogen (N₂) generators and air compressors. 

Three operating scenarios for added resilience

The seal supports three operating modes and automatically adapts in failure situations to minimise disruption and contain gas or oil migration:  

• Scenario 1: Standard operation: Non-contacting operation provides positive oil ingress mitigation.  
• Scenario 2: Separation gas loss: Maintains non-contacting operation and oil control even without separation gas. 
• Scenario 3: Dry gas seal failure: Restricts process gas leakage during compressor shutdown (up to 35 bar), while maintaining seal integrity up to 70 bar.

Supporting operational and sustainability goals

The Type 93AX helps contribute to sustainability goals through reduced emissions and lower energy usage.  By cutting nitrogen use by up to 80%, it decreases demand on N₂ generation systems – a source of both energy consumption and cost.  According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), improving industrial efficiency could cut global energy use by 12% by 2040, further underlining the importance of solutions like the Type 93AX.

Mike Eason, Chief Technology Officer at John Crane, said: “Our customers told us they wanted a separation seal that increases safety, efficiency, and reliability. The Type 93AX delivers on these priorities.  It’s designed to keep working in real-world failure conditions to protect their most critical assets, and reduce environmental impact, while driving down OPEX and CAPEX.  

Eason continued: “The new seal is compatible with John Crane’s dry gas seal portfolio and is supported by a global network of over 200 facilities, including manufacturing, sales and services, and 13 global turbo service centres in more than 50 countries.  It can be sold as part of a bundled first-fit order or compressor upgrade, or supplied as a stand-alone product to meet customer-specific requirements.

More information can be found here: https://www.johncrane.com/coaxial-separation-seal

About John Crane

John Crane is a global leader in mission-critical technologies for the energy and process industries and an innovator in rotating equipment, encompassing mechanical seals, couplings, filtration systems, cutting-edge asset management, and digital diagnostics solutions. Blending a rich legacy of innovation with a commitment to service excellence, we have enabled our customers to operate reliably and sustainably for over a century. While recognising the role of traditional energy, we are pioneering solutions that enable cleaner alternatives, crafting a vision for a sustainable energy future. Our extensive global presence underscores our promise to customers, with over 200 facilities, including manufacturing, sales and service, in more than 50 countries across the globe. With over £1.1 billion in revenue in Fiscal Year 2024, we are an integral pillar of Smiths Group plc, a FTSE 100 listed industrial technology company dedicated to engineering a better future. Visit Smiths.com for more.

 

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SOURCE John Crane

Globally, the digitalisation of agriculture requires the increasing use of measurement electronics in farming. However, power supply and electronic waste pose problems. VTT has now developed a biodegradable solar cell module power source in an international green electronics research project.

ESPOO, Finland  , June 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The solar cell module developed by VTT is so small and light that it can be attached directly to, for example, the stem of a cultivated plant or a large leaf. The cell is approximately the size of a credit card, very flexible and extremely thin. After the growing season, the cell decomposes along with the rechargeable power supply that the cell charges.

“When a solar cell is used in an agricultural application, biodegradability is essential. In this case, there is no real harm caused if the cell cannot be removed from the field, even if it is in close contact with the soil. And, there are no harmful substances to leach into the environment or exacerbate the microplastics problem,” says Maria Smolander, Research Team Leader at VTT.

“Right now, sensors still aren’t being used a great deal in agriculture, but this biodegradable solution makes it possible to more effectively implement them in agricultural applications,” says Smolander.

Compostable device developed in cooperation with six research institutes

The aim of the three-year international research project is to create degradable cultivation sensors. In addition to VTT, Tampere University, University of Glasgow, Lukasiewicz Institute of Microelectronics and Photonics (Łukasiewicz-IMIF), Centre Suisse d’Electronique et de Microtechnique S.A. (CSEM) and McGill University contributed to the project, which was funded by the CHIST-ERA and national funding agencies (e.g. Research Council of Finland).

“Although agriculture has served as a practical test platform for this green electronics project, the main idea is to explore how electronics can be made more environmentally friendly,” says Liisa Hakola, Senior Scientist at VTT.

In the project, VTT developed the solar cell and Tampere University developed a battery-like supercapacitor that stores energy. The project has also developed compostable sensors and modules that transmit collected data wirelessly.

“The aim here is not to collect a large amount of energy – it’s about low energy consumption sensors that can be used to monitor the state of the environment. The degradable solar cell is not intended to match the performance of conventional cells, and there is no need for a long service life”, says Marja Välimäki, Senior Scientist at VTT.

Development of a biodegradable cell set new requirements

VTT has years of comprehensive experience in the manufacture of state-of-the-art solar cells. However, development of a biodegradable cell set new requirements. The structural components must not prematurely decompose or accelerate the decomposition of other components.

“The biodegradable material is less resistant to environmental conditions, such as heat and moisture stress. It must also be ensured that the sensors are extremely light if they are going to be attached to a plant,” says Liisa Hakola.

Depending on the conditions, a biodegradable solar cell will decompose within weeks or months. Solar cell protection can be used to regulate its service life.

The cell developed by VTT is made of a bio-based thin film substrate and has a partly inorganic structure. The manufactured solar cell is less than 35 micrometres thick and, even with protection added, the total thickness remains only tenths of a millimetre.

Regulation requires more measurement technology for farms

Measurement technologies employed on farms serve the growing needs of agricultural data collection, which is used to improve yields, combat plant diseases and reduce agricultural emissions. Regulation also requires increasingly accurate measurement data.

“For example, EU regulations require that nutrient loads be studied regularly in soil samples. The new biodegradable solar cell offers a widely applicable way to collect energy, and sensoring enables more real-time data collection and environmental monitoring,” explains Välimäki.

VTT is also developing environmentally friendly electronics and solar cells as part of a EU funded  IoT research project, whose objectives include combining sensor technology with a sustainable circular economy and clean solutions.

Further information:

VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland
Maria Smolander, Research Team Leader, tel. +358 (0)40 702 9933, maria.smolander@vtt.fi
Marja Välimäki, Senior Scientist, tel. +358 (0)40 578 9014, marja.valimaki@vtt.fi
Liisa Hakola, Senior Scientist, tel. +358 (0)40 841 5978, liisa.hakola@vtt.fi

Further information on VTT:
Paula Bergqvist, Communications Manager
+358 20 722 5161, paula.bergqvist@vtt.fi
www.vttresearch.com

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SOURCE VTT Info