Tag: PR Newswire

• Nationwide youth camps bring world-class soccer training to communities in Atlanta, Miami, New Jersey and Los Angeles
• Camps capture the heart of Hyundai’s “Next Starts Now” campaign, celebrating the future, today, and inspiring the next generation of players and fans in the U.S.

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., April 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Hyundai, an official partner of the 2026 FIFA World Cup™, is bringing its global commitment to soccer directly to local communities across the United States. Beginning in April, Hyundai Motor America will host a series of youth soccer camps in Atlanta, Miami, New Jersey and Los Angeles, joined by iconic soccer legends Mia Hamm and Tim Howard. The camps will deliver an unforgettable, hands-on experience, combining world-class soccer training, confidence-building activities and immersive Hyundai brand activations that bring the company’s “Next Starts Now” campaign to life.

“At Hyundai we don’t wait for the future, we bring it to life today,” said Sean Gilpin, chief marketing officer, Hyundai Motor America. “By partnering with legends like Mia Hamm and Tim Howard for our youth camps across the U.S., we’re creating meaningful experiences for young players while investing in the athletes and leaders who will shape the sport for decades to come. This is how Hyundai supports our communities and the NEXT generation.”

The Hyundai youth soccer camps are a tangible expression of the brand’s “Next Starts Now” campaign, transforming Hyundai’s global FIFA World Cup™ partnership into meaningful, local impact. Just as the next generation of soccer stars isn’t waiting for tomorrow, Hyundai continues to boldly shape the future today.

“Soccer taught me that greatness isn’t about waiting for your moment but about seizing it,” said Mia Hamm, two-time Olympic gold medalist and FIFA Women’s World Cup champion. “That’s exactly what these young athletes are doing. Hyundai understands that the future is built through opportunity, confidence, and belief. These camps are about more than drills, they’re about inspiring the NEXT generation of leaders on and off the field.”

“My career has been defined by passion, determination and believing in what’s possible,” said Tim Howard, legendary goalkeeper and former U.S. Men’s National Team captain. “Every time I step on the field with young players, I see that same fire. Hyundai’s commitment to these communities goes beyond sponsorship, it’s a real investment in the future of the game, and I’m proud to be part of it.”

Each camp will feature morning and afternoon sessions designed to develop soccer fundamentals while building confidence, teamwork and leadership in young players of all skill levels, ages 6-12. In addition to world-class coaching, parents and guardians of camp participants will have the opportunity to explore the latest Hyundai vehicles through a ride-and-drive experience and have a chance to win 2026 FIFA World Cup™ tickets.

Hyundai Hope on Wheels, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to ending childhood cancer, will invite local childhood cancer survivors to each camp, reinforcing continued effort in the fight against pediatric cancer. Hyundai Hope on Wheels recently announced a major philanthropic milestone, surpassing $303 million in lifetime giving to support childhood cancer research since its founding in 1998.  

Camp Dates, Locations, and Details:

Atlanta | Saturday, April 4, 2026
Location: Mud Creek Sports Complex
Player: Tim Howard

Miami | Saturday, April 18, 2026
Location: Baptist Health Community Field
Player: Mia Hamm

New Jersey | Saturday, May 9, 2026
Location: Capelli Sports Complex
Player: Tim Howard

Los Angeles | Saturday, May 30, 2026
Location: Dignity Health Sports Park – Field #5
Player: Mia Hamm

Hyundai Motor America
Hyundai Motor America offers U.S. consumers a technology-rich lineup of cars, SUVs, and electrified vehicles, while supporting Hyundai Motor Company’s Progress for Humanity vision. Hyundai has significant operations in the U.S., including its North American headquarters in California, the Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama assembly plant, the all-new Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America, several cutting-edge R&D facilities and more than 855 independent dealers. These operations are part of Hyundai Motor Group, which is investing $26 billion in the U.S. from 2025 to 2028. For more information, visit www.hyundainews.com.

Hyundai Motor America on Twitter | YouTube | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | TikTok

 

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SOURCE Hyundai Motor America

HOUSTON, April 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Oak Harvest Financial Group, a Houston-based retirement financial planning firm, in partnership with Tube Supply, successfully hosted the 3rd Annual Charity Golf Tournament on Monday, March 30, 2026. Held at the Wildcat Golf Club, the sold-out scramble-style tournament brought together 132 golfers across 33 teams to raise vital funds for Boys & Girls Country.

This year’s event generated a remarkable $136,250 in proceeds, with 100% of the funds directly benefiting Boys & Girls Country. Based in Hockley, TX, the licensed residential home has been providing a secure, stable Christian home environment and holistic care for children and young adults since 1971, helping to break cycles of poverty and abuse.

“We are immensely grateful for our partnership with Tube Supply to make this tournament a reality,” said Troy Sharpe, CEO of Oak Harvest Financial Group. “Seeing this event grow from $37,000 last year to an incredible $136,000 this year is a true testament to the generosity of our community and the vital, life-changing work Boys and Girls Country does every day.”

The day kicked off with a shotgun start at noon, followed by an afternoon of competitive golf and networking, and concluded with a buffet dinner and reception where attendees celebrated the day’s impact.

“We are deeply appreciative of our incredible partners, Oak Harvest Financial Group and Tube Supply, for hosting this outstanding event,” said Vince Duran, CEO of Boys and Girls Country. “Not only does it raise critical funds to support the children who call Boys and Girls Country home, but it also provides a meaningful opportunity to share our mission with everyone in attendance.”

“I want to sincerely thank all the supporters who came out to the tournament,” added Paul Sorensen of Tube Supply. “We hope everyone enjoyed their day on the course, and we look forward to welcoming you all back next year to continue supporting this amazing cause.”

The tournament’s massive success was made possible by the generous support of its sponsors, including Presenting Sponsors J. Joseph, HDH, and SeAH Global; Gold Sponsor Fortis Alliance; and Silver Sponsors Advisors Excel, Innovex, Specialty Heat Treat, and Fusion Oilfield International. Additional corporate support was provided by Athene, Accu Test Labs Ltd., Cierra Pipe, Vulcan, Tiva Technologies, Magellan Corporation, Ryan Gootee General Contractors, Melton & Melton, and Artrom.

For more information about Boys & Girls Country or to find out how to support their mission, visit boysandgirlscountry.org. To learn more about Oak Harvest Financial Group’s community initiatives, visit oakharvestfg.com.

About Oak Harvest Financial Group: Oak Harvest Financial Group is a holistic retirement financial planning registered investment adviser (RIA) based in Houston, Texas. The firm specializes in helping clients navigate their retirement years with comprehensive financial, investment, and tax planning strategies.

About Tube Supply: Tube Supply is a globally trusted supplier of high-quality plate, tube, and bar steel headquartered in Houston, Texas. Serving the oil and gas industry and beyond, the company specializes in delivering reliable, precision-engineered materials, including alloy, stainless, aluminum, and carbon grades, tailored for the most demanding environments and high-pressure applications worldwide.

Disclosure: Advisory services are provided through Oak Harvest Investment Services, LLC, a registered investment adviser. Insurance services are provided through Oak Harvest Insurance Services, LLC, a licensed insurance agency

Media Contact:
Corinne Villanueva
Marketing Specialist
Oak Harvest Financial Group
(281) 822-1350
411603@email4pr.com 

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SOURCE Oak Harvest Financial Group

PHOENIX, April 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Business leaders and Arizona taxpayers can directly empower K-12 students by supporting scholarships for underserved, disabled, and foster children in Arizona. The Arizona Individual and Corporate Tax Credits, along with traditional charitable donations, make it possible for individuals and organizations to support Catholic Education Arizona and its mission of transforming the lives of students in the community.  

“Through Arizona tax credits and charitable giving, tax contributors and traditional donors can make a lifelong impact on children. Help us educate underserved, disabled and foster students who are our future work force, neighbors and friends,” shared Nancy Padberg, MBA President & CEO, Catholic Education Arizona.

Private Education Tax Credits
Arizona taxpayers can redirect their state tax dollars to Catholic Education Arizona at no additional cost, funding tuition scholarships for K-12 students attending the 38 Diocese of Phoenix Catholic schools. This opportunity allows taxpayers to direct their tax dollars to causes that align with their values.

Corporate Tax Credits
CEOs and CFOs can invest in future generations and build leaders. Through the Arizona Low-Income and Disabled/Displaced (foster) Corporate Tax Credit programs, corporations can redirect their tax liability to Catholic Education Arizona, helping provide essential scholarship support to those students in need.

“To be able to send my daughter to a school that supports her faith with like-minded individuals surrounding her has helped steer her high school journey into the right direction from the very start,” said Lorena Contreras, parent of a Catholic School student. “Without CEA, our family would not be able to find the loving and caring environment of the Catholic school.”

Traditional and Planned Giving
Catholic Education Arizona’s charitable division, Changing Lives with Legacy also accepts traditional donations. This division accepts planned and direct gifts that fund scholarships as well.  Accepted gifts include cash, bequests, IRA charitable rollovers, stock and bond gifts, donor-advised fund grants, and more.

Donors continue to support Catholic Education Arizona because of the impact:

• 99% graduation rate
• 96% matriculation to higher education, trade school, or enter military service
• Thousands of hours of community service performed annually

Catholic Education Arizona is the largest provider of scholarships for families attending Catholic schools in the Diocese of Phoenix. Since 1998, CEA has raised more than $383 million and awarded 161,000 scholarships, changing lives one scholarship at a time through tax credits and traditional donations. To learn more, visit www.ceaz.org or call (602) 218-6542.

Contact: Debra Preach, Chief Operating Officer
Catholic Education Arizona
dpreach@ceaz.org
(602)-218-6542

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SOURCE Catholic Education Arizona

NEW YORK, March 27, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — In observance of Earth Hour 2026, VARON, a leading innovator in oxygen therapy solutions, reaffirms its commitment to advancing both respiratory health and environmental sustainability. As millions around the globe switch off their lights for one hour to raise awareness of climate change and nature loss, VARON highlights how everyday healthcare choices—such as using an oxygen concentrator machine—can contribute to a greener planet.

Organized annually by the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), Earth Hour has evolved into a global movement that goes beyond the symbolic lights-off moment. It inspires individuals, businesses, and communities to take meaningful, long-term action for the environment. In 2026, the initiative continues to emphasize collective responsibility in addressing the climate crisis and protecting natural ecosystems.

“Earth Hour is more than a moment—it’s a movement,” said VARON CEO. “At VARON, we believe that supporting respiratory health and protecting the environment should go hand in hand. Our mission is to provide sustainable oxygen solutions that benefit both people and the planet.”

Sustainable Innovation in Oxygen Therapy

Traditional oxygen delivery systems, such as bulky oxygen tanks, require continuous refilling and transportation—resulting in significant carbon emissions. In contrast, VARON’s oxygen concentrator machine technology generates purified oxygen directly from ambient air, eliminating the need for refills and reducing environmental impact.

From the Stationary Oxygen Concentrator designed for home use to the portable oxygen concentrator built for mobility, VARON’s product lineup reflects a commitment to eco-conscious innovation. These devices not only enhance patient independence but also align with global sustainability goals.

Energy Efficiency at the Core

VARON integrates energy-saving features across its product range. The VP Series portable oxygen concentrator models, especially the latest VP-8G, utilize advanced pulse oxygen delivery systems that adapt to a user’s breathing pattern. This smart functionality can reduce power consumption by up to 30% compared to traditional continuous-flow systems.

Similarly, VARON’s Stationary Oxygen Concentrator units, such as the VH-3, include intelligent display technology that dims or turns off during operation, conserving energy and minimizing light pollution—an often-overlooked environmental concern.

Built to Last, Designed to Reduce Waste

Durability is a cornerstone of VARON’s sustainability strategy. Each oxygen concentrator machine is engineered with high-quality materials to ensure longevity, reducing the frequency of repairs and replacements. This approach helps minimize electronic waste and lowers the overall environmental footprint associated with device disposal.

Reducing Waste Through Recertification

As part of its sustainability efforts, VARON has introduced a comprehensive recertification program designed to extend the lifecycle of its oxygen concentrators. Each unit undergoes rigorous inspection, testing, and quality assurance to ensure reliable performance, helping reduce electronic waste while promoting more efficient use of resources.

A Greener Supply Chain

VARON’s environmental responsibility extends beyond product design. The company implements eco-friendly practices throughout its supply chain, including recyclable packaging, energy-efficient manufacturing processes, and optimized global logistics. By integrating sustainability at every stage, VARON ensures that each Stationary Oxygen Concentrator and portable oxygen concentrator supports a cleaner, healthier future.

A Message from Leadership

“Our responsibility goes beyond our customers’ lungs—it’s about the air we all breathe,” said the CEO of VARON. “We are proud to lead the way in sustainable respiratory care, especially during global initiatives like Earth Hour that remind us of our shared duty to protect the planet.

Turning One Hour into Lasting Impact

Earth Hour serves as a powerful reminder that small actions can lead to significant change. VARON encourages individuals and organizations to go beyond the hour by adopting sustainable practices in daily life—including choosing energy-efficient healthcare solutions like an oxygen concentrator machine.

By aligning innovation with environmental stewardship, VARON continues to empower users with reliable, eco-friendly oxygen therapy options—proving that better health and a healthier Earth can go hand in hand.

About VARON

VARON is a trusted provider of advanced oxygen therapy solutions, specializing in the development of Stationary Oxygen Concentrator and portable oxygen concentrator systems. Guided by core values of innovation, quality, affordability, and environmental responsibility, VARON is dedicated to improving lives through sustainable healthcare technology.

Media Contact:
VARON Oxygen Concentrator
Email: support@varoninc.com
Website:  https://varoninc.com/

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SOURCE Varon oxygen concentrator

DETROIT, April 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Liam Mona is the President and Managing Partner of Mona Power, a rapidly growing solar energy company, specializing in residential and commercial solar systems and EV charging solutions across the United States.

“We don’t make average – we make pros. Everything we do at Mona Power is built around training, discipline, and creating top performers in the solar industry,” said Liam Mona, President & Managing Partner of Mona Power.

Known for his results-driven approach and relentless work ethic, Liam Mona has built Mona Power into a trusted name in the renewable energy space. With a strong focus on customer experience, innovation, and long-term savings, he leads his team in helping homeowners and businesses reduce energy costs while transitioning to clean, sustainable power.

Under his leadership, Mona Power has expanded nationwide, delivering high-quality solar installations and cutting-edge energy solutions. Liam Mona is recognized for his expertise in solar sales, business development, and scaling operations, making him a prominent figure in the solar industry.

As President of Mona Power, Liam Mona continues to drive growth, set industry standards, and position the company as a leader in solar and EV infrastructure.chat

CONTACT: liam@monapwr.com

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SOURCE Mona Power LLC

DETROIT, April 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Liam Mona is the President and Managing Partner of Mona Power, a rapidly growing solar energy company, specializing in residential and commercial solar systems and EV charging solutions across the United States.

“We don’t make average – we make pros. Everything we do at Mona Power is built around training, discipline, and creating top performers in the solar industry,” said Liam Mona, President & Managing Partner of Mona Power.

Known for his results-driven approach and relentless work ethic, Liam Mona has built Mona Power into a trusted name in the renewable energy space. With a strong focus on customer experience, innovation, and long-term savings, he leads his team in helping homeowners and businesses reduce energy costs while transitioning to clean, sustainable power.

Under his leadership, Mona Power has expanded nationwide, delivering high-quality solar installations and cutting-edge energy solutions. Liam Mona is recognized for his expertise in solar sales, business development, and scaling operations, making him a prominent figure in the solar industry.

As President of Mona Power, Liam Mona continues to drive growth, set industry standards, and position the company as a leader in solar and EV infrastructure.chat

CONTACT: liam@monapwr.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/liam-mona-expands-mona-power-nationwide-driving-growth-in-solar-and-ev-infrastructure-302733347.html

SOURCE Mona Power LLC

LOS ANGELES, April 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Pathways LA will host its annual signature fundraiser, Seeds of Hope 2025: Havana Nights, on Saturday, May 16, from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m. at The Millwick in downtown Los Angeles. Emceed by KTLA 5’s very own Wendy Burch, the evening will bring together civic leaders, corporate partners, early childhood advocates, and community supporters to raise critical funds for families across Los Angeles County.

Now in its longstanding tradition as the organization’s premier fundraising event, Seeds of Hope supports Pathways LA’s mission to strengthen families and advance access to high-quality early care and education. Funds raised will directly support resource and referral services, provider training, and family support programs that help children enter school ready to succeed.

Guests will enjoy live music, rum tastings, cigar rolling, and a curated bar experience, along with a dynamic silent auction featuring exclusive items and experiences, including a VIP opportunity to see the champion LA Rams, Kendra Scott jewelry, curated wine tastings, Los Angeles Dodgers tickets, and more.

During the program, Pathways LA will present its annual Bea Gold Awards to community leaders whose work reflects a deep commitment to children and families. Honorees include:

• PBS SoCal, recipient of the Bea Gold Corporate Compassion Award
• The Nancy Painter Foundation, recipient of the Bea Gold Compassion Award
• Mirabelle Guevarra, recipient of the Bea Gold Provider Award

“These honorees represent what is possible when community partners come together to support children at their earliest and most critical stages of development,” said Tamika Farr, Chief Executive Officer of Pathways LA. “Seeds of Hope is not only a celebration. It is a call to action to continue investing in families and early learning systems that create lasting opportunity.”

Pathways LA extends special thanks to its early sponsors, including Presenting Sponsors Care Connect and Capital Group, and Community Partners: Child Care Resource Center, Connections for Children, Drew CDC, First 5 LA, and Options for Learning.

Event Details:
Date: May 16, 2026
Time: 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Location: The Millwick | 800 E 4^th Pl. Los Angeles CA 90013

Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available at https://pathwaysla.org/seeds-of-hope/

About Pathways LA: Since 1978, Pathways LA has been dedicated to supporting working families in Los Angeles by providing access to high-quality early education and childcare services. Through our programs, we empower families, support child care providers, and promote economic resilience in communities across Los Angeles.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/pathways-la-to-host-seeds-of-hope-2026-havana-nights-on-may-16-at-the-millwick-302733313.html

SOURCE Pathways LA

LOS ANGELES, April 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Pathways LA will host its annual signature fundraiser, Seeds of Hope 2025: Havana Nights, on Saturday, May 16, from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m. at The Millwick in downtown Los Angeles. Emceed by KTLA 5’s very own Wendy Burch, the evening will bring together civic leaders, corporate partners, early childhood advocates, and community supporters to raise critical funds for families across Los Angeles County.

Now in its longstanding tradition as the organization’s premier fundraising event, Seeds of Hope supports Pathways LA’s mission to strengthen families and advance access to high-quality early care and education. Funds raised will directly support resource and referral services, provider training, and family support programs that help children enter school ready to succeed.

Guests will enjoy live music, rum tastings, cigar rolling, and a curated bar experience, along with a dynamic silent auction featuring exclusive items and experiences, including a VIP opportunity to see the champion LA Rams, Kendra Scott jewelry, curated wine tastings, Los Angeles Dodgers tickets, and more.

During the program, Pathways LA will present its annual Bea Gold Awards to community leaders whose work reflects a deep commitment to children and families. Honorees include:

• PBS SoCal, recipient of the Bea Gold Corporate Compassion Award
• The Nancy Painter Foundation, recipient of the Bea Gold Compassion Award
• Mirabelle Guevarra, recipient of the Bea Gold Provider Award

“These honorees represent what is possible when community partners come together to support children at their earliest and most critical stages of development,” said Tamika Farr, Chief Executive Officer of Pathways LA. “Seeds of Hope is not only a celebration. It is a call to action to continue investing in families and early learning systems that create lasting opportunity.”

Pathways LA extends special thanks to its early sponsors, including Presenting Sponsors Care Connect and Capital Group, and Community Partners: Child Care Resource Center, Connections for Children, Drew CDC, First 5 LA, and Options for Learning.

Event Details:
Date: May 16, 2026
Time: 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Location: The Millwick | 800 E 4^th Pl. Los Angeles CA 90013

Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available at https://pathwaysla.org/seeds-of-hope/

About Pathways LA: Since 1978, Pathways LA has been dedicated to supporting working families in Los Angeles by providing access to high-quality early education and childcare services. Through our programs, we empower families, support child care providers, and promote economic resilience in communities across Los Angeles.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/pathways-la-to-host-seeds-of-hope-2026-havana-nights-on-may-16-at-the-millwick-302733313.html

SOURCE Pathways LA

New research shows that expanding ethanol production from Brazil’s second crop corn can support the growth of sustainable aviation fuel while limiting land-use change and greenhouse gas emissions.

SÃO PAULO, April 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The expansion of ethanol production from Brazil’s second-crop corn could support the production of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) while potentially limiting global land-use change and reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. This is the conclusion of a new study conducted by Agroicone in partnership with Amani Elobeid (Iowa State University), Miguel Carriquiry (Universidad de la Republica, Montevideo, Uruguay), and Jerome Dumortier (Indiana University Indianapolis), and published in Agricultural Economics.

The research analyzes how rising demand for corn ethanol in Brazil, partly driven by emerging SAF markets—could affect global agricultural markets, land use, and carbon emissions. Using a global agricultural trade model combined with a land-use greenhouse gas accounting framework, the study evaluates multiple scenarios of ethanol expansion and supply responses in Brazil.

The findings show that when corn production expands through Brazil’s double-cropping system, where corn is planted after soybeans on the same land within the same year, additional ethanol supply can be achieved primarily through agricultural intensification rather than cropland expansion. This significantly reduces pressure for new land conversion compared with scenarios in which additional corn production would require expanding agricultural land.

Brazil’s second-crop corn system already accounts for most of the country’s corn production, allowing for rapid growth in output without proportional increases in cultivated area. When this production system was incorporated into the economic modelling used in the study, the land-use change associated with ethanol production drops substantially in Brazil, compared to scenario base —from roughly 40 thousand hectares per billion liters of ethanol to about 7 thousand hectares, in scenarios where changes in other variables were not considered.

The analysis also shows that ethanol produced from second-crop corn can achieve very low or even negative lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions (GHG), depending on supply responses and land-use dynamics. These results are driven by four main factors: the supply elasticity of corn, the use of cropland already cultivated within the same year, the use of renewable energy sources in ethanol processing, and the production of corn co-products that substitute for soybean meal in animal feed markets.

“Brazil’s double-cropping system allows farmers to increase corn production without expanding cropland. When this agricultural reality is properly incorporated into economic models, the land-use impacts of biofuel expansion can be substantially lower than previously estimated,” said Luciane Chiodi Bachion, co-author of the study and researcher at Agroicone.

However, the study emphasizes that global outcomes depend heavily on how markets respond to rising ethanol demand. Conversely, if Brazil can expand second-crop corn production efficiently, global land-use change may remain limited—or even decline.

The findings highlight the importance of incorporating Brazil’s double-cropping agricultural system into global models used to assess the environmental impacts of biofuels. They also underscore the need for policies that promote sustainable agricultural intensification while preventing deforestation.

Overall, the research suggests that Brazil’s second-crop corn has potential to become a strategic feedstock for sustainable aviation fuel, helping support climate mitigation goals while maintaining agricultural productivity and global food security.

Key findings from the study

• Land-use efficiency: Incorporating double cropping reduces estimated land-use change in Brazil from about 40 thousand hectares to roughly 7 thousand hectares per billion liters of ethanol produced.
• Low or negative emissions potential: Under certain market conditions, second-crop corn ethanol can achieve very low or even negative lifecycle GHG emissions.
• Agricultural intensification matters: Production increases can occur mainly through intensification rather than expansion of cropland. 
• Global market responses: The scale of land-use change depends on Brazil´s capacity to respond to increased ethanol demand without reducing the supply for domestic consumption and exports. This result is connected to the supply elasticity used in the model.

Key messages

1. Brazilian second-crop corn could enable low-carbon aviation fuels: Ethanol produced from Brazil’s second-crop corn could become a promising feedstock for Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), helping reduce aviation’s greenhouse gas emissions.
2. Double-cropping allows ethanol expansion with limited land pressure: Because second-crop corn is grown after soybeans on the same land, increased ethanol production can occur through agricultural intensification rather than cropland expansion.
3. Market dynamics will determine global land-use impacts: The extent of land-use change depends on how Brazil’s corn supply and exports respond to rising ethanol demand and how global markets adjust.
4. The documented availability of land for expanding second-crop corn production in Brazil, coupled with the assumption of a high supply elasticity scenario, has implications not only for corn ethanol production in Brazil but also for expanding corn demand globally. With almost 17 million hectares of consolidated soybean area available and suitable for expanding second crop corn production, a scenario of high supply elasticity is justified. In a scenario with high supply elasticity, global corn demand may increase within certain limits, with minimal impact on the need to bring additional land into production. Equally importantly, there would be limited price impacts, reducing GHG emissions locally and limiting food price changes and food security concerns.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/brazils-second-crop-corn-can-provide-a-low-carbon-pathway-for-sustainable-aviation-fuel-saf-302733280.html

SOURCE Agroicone

Three years after launch, the program has surpassed 150,000 members, delivering often same-day access to care with $0 out-of-pocket costs for virtual visits with virtual-only providers.

OAKLAND, Calif., April 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Three years after launching its flagship, virtual-first care program, Blue Shield of California today announced that Virtual Blue has shown compelling results around healthcare access, affordability and customer satisfaction. The program has surpassed 150,000 members, reflecting strong and growing demand for convenient, affordable and high‑quality virtual care.

Introduced in 2023 together with Accolade and TeleMed2U, Virtual Blue offers convenient access to a diverse team of virtual primary care, behavioral health and specialist providers.

“Virtual Blue has been a win for members, employers and our Blue Shield mission,” said Tim Lieb, senior vice president of growth at Blue Shield of California. “Members can get appointments faster and save on out-of-pocket costs; employers can offer more equitable access regardless of demographics; and as a nonprofit health plan, we’re advancing our commitment to high‑quality, affordable care for all Californians.”

Improved access and experience

Virtual Blue members receive integrated care — not episodic telehealth — across primary care, behavioral health and specialty providers on one platform, supported by a coordinated team and dedicated health coach who helps manage follow-ups, labs and referrals if in-person care is needed or preferred. Appointments are often available same-day or next-day, including evenings and weekends, through the Blue Shield app.

Virtual Blue visit average wait times significantly outperform statewide in-person averages across California health plans, based on data reported by the California Department of Managed Health Care:

• Primary care and mental health: 1 day vs. 10 days for in-person care
• Specialty care: 3 days vs. 15 days for in-person appointments

Additional highlights:

• 85% of virtual primary care visits for Virtual Blue members include behavioral health screenings
• 55% of Virtual Blue members, or over half, have at least one chronic condition and engage virtual care to meet their higher-touch needs, including condition management, care coordination and ongoing support — this represents 74% of total virtual care utilization

In Virtual Blue member post-visit surveys, Virtual Blue’s virtual physicians earned a Net Promoter Score (NPS) of 89 out of 100 in 2024, a standard measurement of overall customer satisfaction.

More affordable health care

In its first few years, compared to equivalent membership without Virtual Blue, Virtual Blue utilization has delivered promising results including*:

• 7–10% lower overall cost of care, averaging $468 less per member per year
• Emergency room visits reduced by more than 10% (11‑percentage‑point drop in emergency department claims)
• 60% of members surveyed report they would have used costlier care, such as urgent care or the emergency room, or delayed care without Virtual Blue
• Unlimited, $0 out-of-pocket cost virtual visits

Choice-based, accessible care for all

Virtual Blue members choose their virtual doctor, with providers trained in virtual care and educated at top U.S. medical schools. About 70% identify as female and 50% as people of color, and all are trained in LGBTQIA+ care. Care is available through translation services in more than 25 languages.

The Virtual Blue program has expanded healthcare access for rural areas, including school employees in Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs), and for national employers seeking consistent, high-quality care for out-of-state workers.

The program has also created a reliable way for members to stay connected to care during increasingly common environment-driven disasters, like wildfires, while minimizing environmental impacts.

“Virtual‑first care expands access and bridges critical care gaps,” said Dr. Carol Koeble, regional medical director at Blue Shield of California, who provides clinical leadership for the Virtual Blue program. “It supports busy families, shift workers, those with mobility challenges, and people living in areas with provider shortages or disaster risks — and everyone in between.”

Expanding virtual-first care

Building on Virtual Blue’s success, Blue Shield recently added virtual primary care options to its Trio HMO plan, bringing virtual care to individual marketplace members across California. Additionally, Blue Shield will continue adding Virtual Blue as an option to more group employer plans over the next several months.

Virtual care is here to stay — an essential part of Blue Shield’s strategy to ensure all members have access to high-quality care at a sustainably affordable price.

For more information, and our latest virtual care news, visit Virtual Blue. Commercial groups interested in offering Virtual Blue to employees can visit here.

About Blue Shield of California

Blue Shield of California strives to create a healthcare system worthy of its family and friends that is sustainably affordable. The health plan is a taxpaying, nonprofit, independent member of the Blue Shield Association with 6 million members, over 6,500 employees and more than $27 billion in annual revenue. Founded in 1939 in San Francisco and now headquartered in Oakland, Blue Shield of California and its affiliates provide health, dental, vision, Medicaid and Medicare healthcare service plans in California. The company has contributed more than $60 million to the Blue Shield of California Foundation in the last three years to have an impact on California communities. For more news about Blue Shield of California, please visit news.blueshieldca.com. Or follow us on LinkedIn or Facebook.

*Data is based on the most recent available information, including member usage and satisfaction data from 2023 and 2024 analyzed by Blue Shield of California’s Data Insights Team and reviewed by Actuarial, as well as Accolade virtual care appointment data.

Contact: Mark Seelig
Blue Shield of California
415-607-2359
media@blueshieldca.com

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SOURCE Blue Shield of California