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POLLO CAMPERO TO HOST NATIONAL FUNDRAISING DAY TO SUPPORT EARTHQUAKE VICTIMS IN VENEZUELA AND COLOMBIA

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Pollo Campero Logo

POLLO CAMPERO TO HOST NATIONAL FUNDRAISING DAY TO SUPPORT EARTHQUAKE VICTIMS IN VENEZUELA AND COLOMBIA

PR Newswire

The brand will donate a portion of sales on Aug. 25 to Direct Relief

DALLAS, Aug. 17, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Pollo Campero, the Guatemalan-born fast-casual restaurant, is calling on communities across the United States to support earthquake relief and recovery efforts in Venezuela and Colombia through a national fundraiser on Tuesday, Aug. 25.

Pollo Campero Logo

Participating Pollo Campero locations will donate 25% of sales from guests who mention the fundraiser at checkout to global humanitarian medical organization Direct Relief and its ongoing earthquake response and recovery efforts.

Nearly two months after the devastating June 24 earthquakes in Venezuela, healthcare providers across that nation continue working to care for patients amid damaged hospitals and disrupted health services. The Colombia earthquake on Aug. 10 compounds the long-term, ongoing recovery needs that organizations like Direct Relief are working to support.

“The victims of back-to-back earthquakes in Venezuela and Colombia will require sustained and substantial support for many months to come, and we intend to help meet those long-term needs,” said Karla Patino, vice president of marketing and sales for Pollo Campero. “Here in the U.S., our communities are hurting for those impacted. We want to make it easy for our guests to turn an everyday meal into meaningful support for Venezuelan and Colombian families and communities facing a long recovery.”

“Our connection to the U.S. Hispanic community gives us a meaningful reason to keep these communities at the forefront. We are hoping other brands and organizations will join us, because lasting recovery will require the sustained support of many,” said Luis Javier Rodas, managing director and chief operating officer of Pollo Campero.

Direct Relief has provided more than 11 tons of medical aid and $400,000 in emergency grant funding to support healthcare providers across Venezuela since June. Healthcare needs across Venezuela remain significant as hospitals, healthcare providers and communities continue the long process of recovery, and the organization is now mobilizing aid in Colombia as well.

“Partnerships have the power to extend the reach and impact of humanitarian response in ways no organization can achieve alone,” said Jennifer Lotito, chief external affairs officer of Direct Relief. “We’re grateful to Pollo Campero for standing with the people of Venezuela and Colombia and demonstrating how businesses, communities and humanitarian organizations can work together to help ensure families continue to have access to the healthcare and support they need throughout recovery.”

On Tuesday, Aug. 25, guests can contribute to the fundraiser in-store at participating Pollo Campero locations across the United States by mentioning the fundraiser at checkout.

About Pollo Campero USA
Pollo Campero, a flagship brand of Corporación Multi Inversiones (CMI) and national treasure of Guatemala and El Salvador, is famous for its delicious fried and roasted chicken made from family recipes passed down through generations. Since its 1971 founding in Guatemala, the brand has grown from a local favorite into a global powerhouse, serving over 80 million customers annually with its signature flavor and excellent service. Today, Pollo Campero operates more than 350 restaurants across the United States, Guatemala, El Salvador, Mexico, Honduras and Ecuador, with more than 150 in the United States. Beyond the kitchen, Pollo Campero is committed to social impact. The Campero Institute has provided educational opportunities to employees for 30 years, while the Gran Rifa Únete a AYUVI has supported children with cancer for over two decades. Pollo Campero has also partnered with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital since 2018, supporting its lifesaving mission for nearly 10 years. For more information, visit us.campero.com.

Media Contact
Abby Boroski
[email protected]
817-329-3257

SOURCE Pollo Campero

POPE LEO XIV AND ANDREA BOCELLI JOIN TOGETHER IN A HISTORIC “CANTICLE OF PEACE” WITH THE SUPPORT OF BANVELCA

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Leon XIV, Andrea Bocelli, ABF. Credit: Vatican Media

POPE LEO XIV AND ANDREA BOCELLI JOIN TOGETHER IN A HISTORIC “CANTICLE OF PEACE” WITH THE SUPPORT OF BANVELCA

PR Newswire

164 Young People from Vulnerable Communities Took Part in an Encounter of Music, Spirituality and Fellowship

NEW YORK, Aug. 14, 2026 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Music, as a universal language capable of transcending borders and fostering peace, was at the heart of “Canticle of Peace,” a gathering of prayer and fellowship led by Pope Leo XIV alongside renowned tenor Andrea Bocelli at the Pontifical Gardens in Castel Gandolfo. The initiative was supported by Banvelca Foundation and the Herrera Velutini family.

Leon XIV, Andrea Bocelli, ABF. Credit: Vatican Media

Held recently at Borgo Laudato si’, the gathering brought together 164 children and young people from ABF Voices, the global educational program of the Andrea Bocelli Foundation, for an inspiring experience that brought together music, spirituality, and a call for harmony among peoples. The event was held as part of the celebrations marking the eighth centenary of the death of Saint Francis of Assisi.

The young participants came from different communities around the world affected by conflict, poverty and situations of vulnerability. This diversity became an essential part of the gathering’s message, highlighting the power of art to create spaces for dialogue, hope, and reconciliation.

During his reflection, Pope Leo XIV highlighted the significance of listening to different voices transformed into a common expression. “In this sense, the choir becomes a symbol of concord and cooperation,” he said.

Culture and Philanthropy as Instruments for Connection

The support of initiatives such as “Canticle of Peace” reflects the mission of Banvelca Foundation, the Herrera Velutini family’s philanthropic arm dedicated to cultural sponsorship, heritage preservation, and international philanthropy, supporting cultural initiatives as well as social and educational programs around the world.

For Melanie Herrera Velutini, President of Banvelca Foundation, the gathering reflects precisely this vision. “Supporting an initiative that brings together young people whose lives have been shaped by such different circumstances reminds us of the power of culture to create common ground. These are precisely the kinds of programs we are committed to supporting, both as a Foundation and as a family.”

A Message for Future Generations

During one of the central moments of the gathering, Leo XIV delivered a message especially to the young people: “Remember that you have been created for great things and that the whole world is not enough to satisfy your thirst for meaning and happiness.” The Pontiff also prayed for peace in places that continue to suffer the consequences of violence.

The gathering, which marked the culmination of ten days of fellowship and formation for the members of ABF Voices, concluded with the Lord’s Prayer, the sign of peace, the apostolic blessing and a performance of “Amazing Grace” by Andrea Bocelli and the choir. “Every voice carries with it a story, a heritage and a hope,” said Maestro Andrea Bocelli, founder of ABF. “When so many voices come together, from afar and from such diverse life experiences, something happens that goes beyond singing: the possibility to recognize one another, to listen to one another, to feel less distant from one another. Music has this gift. It does not erase differences, but transforms them into harmony.”

“Canticle of Peace” left a powerful and lasting image in Castel Gandolfo: 164 voices from diverse backgrounds united through music before the Pontiff, embodying his message that harmony does not require differences to disappear, but rather invites us to embrace them.

 

SOURCE Banvelca

Debt.com Announces 2026 FinTalk Award Nominees as U.S. Credit Card Balances Hover Near Historic Highs

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Honoring the creators who make us richer, smarter, and safer. Voting starts Aug. 17, 2026. The creators with the most votes take home a FinTalk Award!

Debt.com Announces 2026 FinTalk Award Nominees as U.S. Credit Card Balances Hover Near Historic Highs

PR Newswire

Fourth-Annual Awards Honor 12 Leading Financial Voices Dismantling Money Stigma Across Digital Media

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., Aug. 13, 2026 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — With household budgets stretched and American credit card debt remaining near historic peaks, Debt.com officially announces the nominees for its Annual FinTalk Awards. The award recognizes financial creators who are reshaping how the nation deals with personal finance issues.

Honoring the creators who make us richer, smarter, and safer. Voting starts Aug. 17, 2026. The creators with the most votes take home a FinTalk Award!

As traditional financial advice often fails to resonate with younger, digitally native audiences, this year’s nominees represent a crucial shift toward relatable, judgment-free education. From aggressive debt payoff roadmaps and student loan strategies to practical household budgeting, these nominees translate complex financial concepts into actionable daily habits across short-form video, long-form series, and community outreach.

“Financial education only works when it’s accessible, authentic, and immediately actionable,” says Don Silvestri, President of Debt.com. “These creators and credit union advocates are cutting through the noise and meeting Americans where they already are, on their phones and in their communities, making intimidating money topics easier to understand and, more importantly, easier to act on.”

Public voting opens on Monday, August 17, 2026, allowing people nationwide to vote for their favorite creators across four flagship categories: Financial Creator of the Year, Best Short-Form Content, Best Long-Form Content, and Best Credit Union Education.

Financial Creator of the Year Nominees 

  • Debt Free Millennials — Justine Nelson paid off $35K in student loans on a $37K income and now teaches millennials to budget and live debt-free.
  • Personal Finance with Leila — Leila Kartforosh-Nuñez, a microbiologist who tackled $82K in debt, documents the road to financial freedom.
  • Hey Friend, It’s Em — Emily Egashira went from food stamps to a seven-figure net worth, sharing every money move along the way.
  • The Quiet Wealth Club — Lucy Hinds quietly built wealth to millionaire status by 37 and shares the long-game habits that got her there.

Best Short-Form Content Nominees

  • Alison Talks Money —Alison romanticizes life on a budget with quick, practical tips on saving and investing.
  • Wallet Hacks — Jim Wang shares 10+ years of hard-won hacks for banking, credit, and growing wealth.
  • Hey Friend, It’s Em — Emily Egashira shares actionable short-form money strategies.
  • The Quiet Wealth Club — Lucy Hinds sharing quick daily habits for long-term wealth building.

Best Long-Form Content

  • Aja Dang — Aja paid off $200K in two years and now breaks down budgeting, saving, and investing for a 450K+ audience.
  • Bigger Pockets Money — Mindy Jensen and Scott Trench host twice-weekly deep dives into real money stories and the path to financial independence.
  • Debt Free Millennials — Justine Nelson talks about paying off student loans, controlling spending, conquering financial goals, and more.
  • Personal Finance with Leila — Leila Kartforosh-Nuñez documents her journey to financial freedom while also creating educational and entertaining content around money.

Best Credit Union Community Education

  • BrightStar Credit Union — Features local South Florida community events, financial tips, and family-friendly initiatives tailored to local members and educators.
  • Space Coast Credit Union — Blends practical money management advice and member spotlight stories highlighting their East Coast Florida community roots.
  • Suncoast Credit Union — Emphasizes community impact, youth education, foundation grant highlights, and accessible financial literacy content for Florida families.
  • Tropical Financial Credit Union — Focuses on everyday lifestyle budgeting tips, disaster relief/charity work, and member-centric account solutions for South Floridians.

To view all nominee profiles and cast your vote, visit Debt.com FinTalk Awards 2026.

About Debt.com

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

Debt.com is the consumer website where people can find help with credit card debt, student loan debt, tax debt, credit repair, bankruptcy, and more. Debt.com works with vetted and certified providers that give the best advice and solutions for consumers ‘when life happens.’

SOURCE Debt.com

Vantage Highlights Automation and Digital Finance Trends at Wealth Expo Dominican Republic 2026

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Vantage Highlights Automation and Digital Finance Trends at Wealth Expo Dominican Republic 2026

PR Newswire

PORT VILA, Vanuatu, Aug. 14, 2026 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Vantage Markets participated in Wealth Expo Dominican Republic 2026 as a Diamond Sponsor at the Dominican Fiesta Hotel in Santo Domingo. The event included a VIP gathering on July 24 and the main expo on July 25, attracting approximately 3,500 visitors.

The event took place amid broader financial digitisation in the Dominican Republic. On July 23, the Central Bank of the Dominican Republic said it was working to implement a new instant-payments system designed to operate 24/7/365, credit funds within a maximum of 10 seconds, and allow non-bank payment service providers, including fintechs, to connect.

Against this backdrop, discussions at Wealth Expo focused on how technology is changing market access and trading behaviour. Rodrigo Martínez examined the shift from manual to automated trading, including EAs, copy trading and PAMM; José Flores discussed trading signals and copy trading within trading communities; Brissia Delgado joined a panel on the role of platforms in regional trading expansion; and Alan Freitag addressed discipline and process in trading decision-making.

Vantage received two event recognitions: “Best Trading Solutions” and “Best Copy Trading Platform.”

“We were pleased to participate in Wealth Expo Dominican Republic 2026 and contribute to discussions around automation, digital finance and developments in trading technology. The event provided an opportunity to exchange perspectives on evolving trends across the industry,” said Marco Pisanelli, Regional Business Development Manager at Vantage.

Vantage’s participation reflects its continued commitment to industry dialogue, financial education and discussions on developments in trading technology.

About Vantage
Vantage Markets, or Vantage, is a multi-asset CFD broker offering access to CFDs on Forex, commodities, indices, shares, ETFs and bonds through its trading platforms and services.

Risk Warning
CFDs are complex instruments and carry a high risk of rapid losses due to leverage. Make sure you understand the risks before trading.

Disclaimer
This release is provided for general informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute financial or investment advice, or an offer or solicitation of any financial product or service in any jurisdiction where such an offer or solicitation would be unlawful. Products and services may not be available in all jurisdictions.

SOURCE Vantage

Carolina Complete Health Supports Young Leaders Through AMEXCAN Summer Camp

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Carolina Complete Health

Carolina Complete Health Supports Young Leaders Through AMEXCAN Summer Camp

PR Newswire

Sponsorship helped 24 children from coastal North Carolina participate in educational, cultural and leadership-building activities

CHARLOTTE, N.C., Aug. 13, 2026 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Carolina Complete Health, a subsidiary of the Centene Corporation (NYSE: CNC), sponsored the AMEXCAN Summer Camp, helping provide 24 children from coastal North Carolina with a summer experience centered on learning, leadership and personal growth.

Carolina Complete Health

Throughout the program, participants took part in educational workshops, cultural activities, leadership development and recreational programming designed to build confidence, encourage personal growth and foster meaningful connections.

Carolina Complete Health’s sponsorship helped cover program costs, supplies and meals, ensuring every child could fully participate in the camp experience.

“Supporting young children means investing in opportunities that help them discover their strengths, build confidence and connect with their communities,” said Lori Keane, director of marketing, at Carolina Complete Health at Carolina Complete Health. “Together with AMEXCAN, we are proud to help create meaningful summer experiences that allow children to learn, grow and thrive.”

The sponsorship reflects Carolina Complete Health’s broader commitment to improving the health and well-being of the communities it serves. By supporting community-based programs that promote education, leadership and belonging, the organization works to strengthen families and help build healthier communities across North Carolina.

About Carolina Complete Health

Carolina Complete Health is a provider-led Medicaid health plan committed to delivering high-quality care to Medicaid, Marketplace and Medicare beneficiaries in North Carolina. It was established through a unique partnership between Centene, the North Carolina Medical Society and the North Carolina Community Health Center Association.

About AMEXCAN

Founded in 2001, the Association of Mexicans in North Carolina, Inc. (AMEXCAN) is grassroots, nonprofit, statewide, and binational organization committed to the well-being and dignity of Mexican and Latino communities across North Carolina and Mexico. AMEXCAN promotes community participation and prosperity through advocacy, education, health, leadership development, cultural programs, and binational initiatives. By connecting families with trusted information, resources, and opportunities, AMEXCAN helps build stronger communities in which Latino residents are empowered to lead, participate, and thrive. For more information, visit www.amexcannc.org.

About Centene Corporation

Centene Corporation, a Fortune 500 company, is a leading healthcare enterprise committed to helping people live healthier lives. The company takes a local approach—with local brands and local teams—to provide fully integrated, high-quality and cost-effective services to government-sponsored and commercial healthcare programs, focusing on under-insured individuals. Centene offers affordable and high-quality products to more than one in 15 individuals across the nation, including Medicaid and Medicare members, as well as individuals and families served by the Health Insurance Marketplace. Centene uses its investor relations website to publish important information about the company, including information that may be deemed material to investors. Financial and other information about Centene is routinely posted and is accessible on Centene’s investor relations website, investors.centene.com.

SOURCE Carolina Complete Health

GOYA FOODS DONATES MORE THAN 200,000 POUNDS OF FOOD TO SUPPORT COMMUNITIES IMPACTED BY EARTHQUAKES IN COLOMBIA

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GOYA FOODS DONATES MORE THAN 200,000 POUNDS OF FOOD TO SUPPORT COMMUNITIES IMPACTED BY EARTHQUAKES IN COLOMBIA

GOYA FOODS DONATES MORE THAN 200,000 POUNDS OF FOOD TO SUPPORT COMMUNITIES IMPACTED BY EARTHQUAKES IN COLOMBIA

PR Newswire

JERSEY CITY, N.J., Aug. 13, 2026 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Goya Foods, the largest Hispanic-owned food company in the United States, responds to the humanitarian crisis following devastating earthquakes in Colombia by donating more than 200,000 pounds of food to help provide essential nourishment to individuals and families impacted by the disaster. In partnership with Global Empowerment Mission (GEM), Goya is working to ensure that the food reaches communities and families most urgently in need.

GOYA FOODS DONATES MORE THAN 200,000 POUNDS OF FOOD TO SUPPORT COMMUNITIES IMPACTED BY EARTHQUAKES IN COLOMBIA

“Our hearts are with the people of Colombia during this difficult time,” said Peter Unanue, Co-President of Goya Foods. “For 90 years, Goya has stood with communities in times of need. We hope this donation provides nourishment and comfort to families as they recover and rebuild. We stand with the people of Colombia and remain committed to supporting relief efforts.”

The donation consists of five truckloads of Goya products, packed with a variety of essential food items to help meet the immediate needs of communities affected by the earthquakes. Through its Goya Gives initiative and partnership with GEM, Goya is committed to helping ensure critical food supplies reach those who need them most as relief and recovery efforts continue.

“Goya has once again demonstrated what meaningful corporate partnership looks like in the immediate aftermath of a disaster,” said Michael Capponi, Founder and President of Global Empowerment Mission. “This donation gives GEM the ability to rapidly move essential resources directly into the hands of families impacted by the earthquakes in Colombia. Our model is built around speed, efficiency and strong partnerships, ensuring aid arrives quickly and reaches the communities where it has the greatest impact. We are deeply grateful to Goya for standing with GEM and the people of Colombia as we move from immediate response toward long-term recovery.”

Goya’s longstanding commitment to humanitarian relief spans 90 years, with the company responding to natural disasters and crises throughout the United States and around the world, including the recent earthquakes in Venezuela. Through Goya Gives, Goya continues this legacy by providing food and essential resources to communities in need, working with trusted partners like Global Empowerment Mission to deliver support where it is needed most.

For more information about Goya Gives, please visit: www.goyagives.com

About Goya Foods
Founded in 1936, Goya Foods, Inc. is America’s largest Hispanic-owned food company, and has established itself as the leader in Latin American food and condiments. Goya manufactures, packages, and distributes over 2,500 high-quality food products from Spain, the Caribbean, Mexico, Central, and South America. Goya products have their roots in the culinary traditions of Hispanic communities around the world. The combination of authentic ingredients, robust seasonings, and convenient preparation makes Goya products ideal for every taste and every table. For more information on Goya Foods, please visit www.goya.com.

About Goya Gives
Goya Gives is a global initiative dedicated to bringing people together and uplifting communities by combating food insecurity, supporting education, and celebrating cultural heritage. Through partnerships with more than 300 organizations—including food banks, churches, shelters, schools, and cultural institutions—we provide nourishing food during times of need and disaster relief, while also empowering students and families through scholarships and educational opportunities. By fostering cultural appreciation, promoting healthy lifestyles, and strengthening community spirit, we strive to create both immediate impact and long-term, sustainable solutions. Rooted in compassion and a 90-year legacy of service, Goya Gives works to ensure that every individual has access to the food, support, and opportunities needed for a healthier, brighter future—cultivating hope, solidarity, and resilience, one meal at a time. For more information on Goya Gives, please visit: www.goyagives.com

PRESS CONTACT:

Natalie J. Maniscalco
bluePRint Communications
[email protected]
845.659.6506

SOURCE Goya Foods

Sixty Compton, California Students to be Selected for Leadership and Health Advocacy Training, Powered by Health Net’s $412,000 Investment

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Health Net of California

Sixty Compton, California Students to be Selected for Leadership and Health Advocacy Training, Powered by Health Net’s $412,000 Investment

PR Newswire

The company’s investment in The Los Angeles Trust for Children’s Health will help students build leadership skills, learn to support their peers and connect to local health care services

LOS ANGELES, Aug. 13, 2026 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Health Net, one of California’s most experienced Medi-Cal managed care health plans and company of Centene Corporation (NYSE: CNC), announced a $412,000 grant to The Los Angeles Trust for Children’s Health to expand its Wellness Youth Advocate (WYA) program into Compton Unified School District. The investment will help launch the program at Compton High School, Dominguez High School and Whaley Middle School.

Health Net of California

The grant will help equip students with the knowledge, skills and resources they need to become advocates for their own health and wellbeing while supporting the health of their peers. The expansion builds on a program that currently engages more than 100 student Wellness Youth Advocates at 12 schools across Los Angeles County, reaching more than 20,000 students through peer-led health education campaigns.

“Young people understand the challenges facing their communities because they live them every day. When we invest in their leadership, we create opportunities for students to share their experiences, support one another and help shape healthier futures for themselves and their peers,” said Dorothy Seleski, President of Medi-Cal at Health Net. “We’re proud to partner with The Los Angeles Trust for Children’s Health to help ensure more young people in Compton have a voice, feel supported and can access the services they need to thrive.”

Through the peer-to-peer model, students will receive training in leadership, health education, mental health awareness, and navigating health care services. The program will also help connect eligible students to Enhanced Care Management (ECM) among other services.

“Every student deserves access to the resources and support they need to be healthy, succeed in school and reach their full potential,” said Los Angeles County Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell. “The Los Angeles Trust for Children’s Health has long been a champion for student wellbeing, and Health Net’s investment will help expand opportunities for young people in Compton to learn about their health, support their peers and access critical services. This partnership is an important step toward creating healthier outcomes for our youth and our communities.”

Expanding the program into Compton Unified School District will establish the model in a new district while creating opportunities to share best practices for school-based health initiatives and peer-led engagement. The grant will support recruitment and training of 60 student Wellness Youth Advocates over two school years.

The program will also convene students from across Los Angeles County through annual Youth-to-Youth Health Summits and support ongoing evaluation efforts to measure improvements in health literacy, leadership development, advocacy skills and access to care.

“We are grateful for Health Net’s partnership and commitment to improving the health and wellbeing of young people,” said Sarah Rodman, Executive Director at The LA Trust for Children’s Health. “By expanding the Wellness Youth Advocate program into Compton Unified School District, we can empower more students to become leaders, strengthen peer support networks and help connect youth to the care and resources they need to succeed.”

Over the last 5 years, Health Net has committed over $284 million to community-based initiatives that address the social drivers of health and improve access to care across California. This grant reflects Health Net’s ongoing commitment to investing in innovative programs that improve health outcomes for children, youth and families in underserved communities.

About Health Net
Founded in California more than 45 years ago, Health Net, LLC (“Health Net”), a company of Centene Corporation, believes that every person deserves a safety net for their health, regardless of age, income, employment status or current state of health. Today, we provide health plans for individuals, families, businesses of every size and people who qualify for Medi-Cal or Medicare. With more than 117,000 of our network providers, Health Net serves more than three million members across the state. We also offer access to substance abuse programs, behavioral health services and managed healthcare products related to prescription drugs. We make these health plans and services available through Health Net and its subsidiaries: Health Net of California, Inc., Health Net Life Insurance Company and Health Net Community Solutions, Inc. These entities are wholly owned subsidiaries of Centene Corporation (NYSE: CNC), a leading healthcare enterprise committed to transforming the health of the communities we serve, one person at a time. Health Net and Centene Corporation employ more than 5,700 people in California who work at one of five regional Talent Hub offices. For more information, visit www.HealthNet.com.

SOURCE Health Net, LLC

A settlement has been reached with Managed Care of North America, Inc., MCNA Insurance Company, and Healthplex, Inc. involving a data incident

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A settlement has been reached with Managed Care of North America, Inc., MCNA Insurance Company, and Healthplex, Inc. involving a data incident

PR Newswire

PHILADELPHIA, Aug. 13, 2026 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The following statement is being issued by Kroll Settlement Administration LLC regarding Crowe v. Managed Care of North America, Inc., No. 0:23-cv-61065-AHS (S.D. Fla.).

A settlement has been reached with Managed Care of North America, Inc. (“MCNA, Inc.”), MCNA Insurance Company, and Healthplex, Inc. (collectively, “Defendants”) in a class action lawsuit. The lawsuit alleges that between February 26, 2023 and March 7, 2023, there was potential unauthorized access to personally identifiable information and private health information (“Private Information”) on MCNA’s computer systems (the “Data Incident”). Defendants deny all allegations and any wrongdoing whatsoever. No court or other judicial body has made any judgment or other determination that Defendants have done anything wrong.

If you received notice that your Private Information may have been compromised in the Data Incident, you are included as a Settlement Class Member.

The Settlement includes cash payments up to $2,500 for Documented Out-of-Pocket Losses. You must submit a Claim Form for Documented Out-of-Pocket Losses by October 19, 2026. If you were already reimbursed for Documented Out-of-Pocket Losses by another source, you may not submit a claim for those losses under this Settlement. If you do not opt out of the Settlement, you will automatically receive two years of medical data monitoring (available only after enrollment and after the Court grants final approval of the Settlement). You do not need to submit a Claim Form for this benefit. Defendants have undertaken and will continue to undertake reasonable steps to further secure their systems and environments, including to protect Private Information.

If you don’t want to be legally bound by the Settlement, you must opt out by October 19, 2026. If you do not agree with the Settlement, you may submit an objection by October 19, 2026. If you do nothing, you will not receive payment for Documented Out-of-Pocket Losses, you will receive medical data monitoring (available only after enrollment and after the Court grants final approval of the Settlement), and you will remain a Settlement Class Member and will give up your right to sue Defendants for the claims resolved by this Settlement.

A Final Approval Hearing is currently scheduled for November 16, 2026. At the hearing, the Court will determine whether to approve the Settlement, approve attorneys’ fees and costs.

For more information, visit www.MCNAdatabreachsettlement.com or call (833) 930-0161.

SOURCE Kroll Settlement Administration LLC

Astara Capital Partners Acquires Dynatec Systems, a Leading Provider of Industrial Wastewater Treatment Solutions

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Dynatec

Astara Capital Partners Acquires Dynatec Systems, a Leading Provider of Industrial Wastewater Treatment Solutions

PR Newswire

NEW YORK, Aug. 13, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Astara Capital Partners, LLC (“Astara”), a middle-market private equity firm, today announced that it has acquired Dynatec Systems (“Dynatec” or the “Company”), a leading provider of membrane-based industrial wastewater treatment systems and aftermarket products and services. Headquartered in Burlington, New Jersey, and founded in 1978, Dynatec designs, builds, operates, and services systems that treat industrial wastewater for discharge and water reuse, serving blue-chip customers across end markets including food & beverage, automotive, data center, waste, and general manufacturing.

Dynatec

Astara will build on Dynatec’s technical leadership by investing in its team, growing its design-build-own-operate-maintain (DBOOM) and aftermarket service capabilities, and expanding into adjacent technologies and new end markets where demand for industrial water and wastewater treatment is accelerating. The investment is underpinned by powerful long-term tailwinds, including growing water scarcity, the reshoring of North American manufacturing, and tightening regulation of industrial discharge.

Following the transaction, Dynatec will be led by an accomplished leadership team. Hu Fleming, a longtime water industry leader and Astara strategic advisor, will join the Company’s Board of Directors as Executive Chairman. Tom Doherty, founder and President of Dynatec, will remain with the business and retain a meaningful ownership stake.

“I founded Dynatec in 1978 to provide membrane wastewater solutions, and I’m proud of everything our team has accomplished since. Astara is the right partner to carry that legacy forward, and I look forward to seeing the continued growth of the Company,” said Mr. Doherty.

Astara Partner Lindsey Tannenbaum said, “We are excited to partner with Dynatec Systems, a respected leader with decades of experience in industrial wastewater treatment. Industrial and manufacturing companies are facing mounting pressure to treat and reuse their toughest waste streams, and Dynatec’s service offering is uniquely suited to help. Our priority is to keep delivering the best-in-class solutions and exceptional service Dynatec’s customers count on, while investing strategically in organic growth initiatives and transformative process improvements to meet rapidly growing demand.”

Dentons LLP and Robinson, Bradshaw & Hinson, P.A. served as legal advisors to Astara. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

About Dynatec

Founded in 1978 and headquartered in Burlington, New Jersey, Dynatec is a leading provider of advanced, membrane-based solutions to treat industrial wastewater for discharge and water reuse, specializing in hard-to-treat waste streams. The Company designs, builds, services, and operates membrane filtration systems for customers across a variety of end markets. For more information, visit www.dynatecsystems.com.

About Astara Capital Partners

Astara Capital Partners is an integrated team of investors and operators focused on the middle market. The firm provides capital, strategic guidance, and operational support to help build sustainable value across its portfolio. Astara invests in sectors where it has deep expertise, including water infrastructure, building products, home services, food, packaging, manufacturing, and distribution. For more information, visit www.astaracapital.com.

SOURCE Astara Capital Partners

APA Invites Planners to Shape National Planning Conference in Houston

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American Planning Association (www.planning.org)

APA Invites Planners to Shape National Planning Conference in Houston

PR Newswire

American Planning Association National Planning Conference Opens Call for 2027 Session Proposals: Due August 26, 2026

CHICAGO, Aug. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The American Planning Association (APA) National Planning Conference is inviting planners to help shape the profession’s premier learning and leadership event by submitting educational session proposals for the 2027 National Planning Conference (NPC27), taking place in Houston. Proposals are due August 26, 2026

American Planning Association (www.planning.org)

NPC27 gives planners a national platform to share practical ideas and lessons on the pressing topics of reshaping communities, including housing, climate change, technology and the political landscape. APA welcomes proposals featuring innovative planning practices, emerging trends, research and real-world solutions that peers can put into practice.

“NPC27 is where planners turn today’s most pressing challenges into practical strategies for stronger, and more resilient communities,” said APA President Sue Schwartz, FAICP. “We want to hear from planning professionals whose experience can help communities navigate change and expand options for everyone.”

APA is seeking proposals across tracks focused on the challenges, opportunities and innovations shaping communities and the planning profession including:

  • Climate Change, Energy, and the Environment
  • Economic Development
  • Housing
  • Navigating the Political Landscape
  • Social Change
  • Technology
  • Transportation and Infrastructure
  • Career and the Workplace

Education session proposals are due August 26, 2026. To learn more about submitting a proposal, volunteering as a session reviewer, visit www.planning.org/conference/proposal.

The American Planning Association’s (APA) NPC27 will take place May 15–18, 2027, in Houston. Additional conference details will be announced at www.planning.org/conference.

APA’s National Planning Conference is the nation’s largest gathering of urban planners to explore what is working in communities around the country, and what comes next. Each year the premiere event brings together thousands of community planners, urban designers, transportation experts, historic preservationists and planning commissioners for an impactful and collaborative experience. Follow updates online with #NPC27.

The American Planning Association is an independent, not-for-profit educational organization that provides vital leadership in creating great communities for all. APA and its professional institute, the American Institute of Certified Planners, are dedicated to advancing the profession of planning, offering better choices for where and how people work and live. The nearly 40,000 APA members work in concert with community residents, civic leaders and business interests to create communities that enrich people’s lives. Through its philanthropic work, APA’s Foundation helps to reduce economic and social barriers to good planning. APA is based in Chicago. Learn more at www.planning.org.

The American Planning Association's NPC27 will be in Houston, May 15 - 18, 2027.

SOURCE American Planning Association