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Military Veterans Can Win Free Travel Agency Franchise as Dream Vacations Marks 15 Years of Operation Vetrepreneur Contest During America’s 250th Anniversary

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Dream Vacations travel agency franchise launches 15th annual “Operation Vetrepreneur: Become Your Own General” contest

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., July 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Dream Vacations, a leading homebased travel agency franchise, is now accepting entries for its “Operation Vetrepreneur: Become Your Own General” contest, marking 15 years of helping veterans transition to business ownership. The contest will award three military veterans a free travel agency franchise.

As America approaches its 250th anniversary, the milestone reflects on the values of independence, service and opportunity that define the nation. For many veterans, those same values carry into civilian life through entrepreneurship. Celebrating 250 years of American independence alongside 15 years of Operation Vetrepreneur, Dream Vacations continues its commitment to helping veterans build their own businesses and achieve the American Dream of ownership.

The contest runs from July 4th through August 31st. Since launching in 2012, Operation Vetrepreneur has awarded 65 franchises to veterans across the country. In addition to receiving a free franchise, winners will also be awarded a ticket to the franchisor’s Land Summit 2027, an exclusive training and networking event designed to help entrepreneurs catapult their businesses.

What is Operation Vetrepreneur?
Operation Vetrepreneur is an annual contest from Dream Vacations that awards military veterans a free travel agency franchise, including training, marketing tools and ongoing support to help them launch and grow a home-based business.

The Dream Vacations franchise contest is open to former members of any of the six branches of the U.S. military (Army, Air Force, Navy, Marine Corps, Space Force and Coast Guard) who are retired, off active duty or honorably discharged prior to the contest start date and are residents of the U.S.

To participate, candidates must complete an online entry form and schedule an introductory phone call with a Franchise Development Manager. Candidates will also submit a profile, business plan and video. Finalists will be invited to participate in follow-up phone interviews before winners are selected. Full contest details can be found at Operation Vetrepreneur website.

“I encourage any veteran who has thought about starting their own business to apply,” said Shane Gray, a past Operation Vetrepreneur winner and Dream Vacations franchise owner. “Winning gave me the opportunity to build a flexible business while doing something I love. You’re in business for yourself, but not by yourself. The training, tools and support system really set you up to succeed, and it truly changed my life.”

Past winners of the contest have gone on to build successful businesses across the country, creating a growing network of veteran entrepreneurs within the Dream Vacations system.

Military veterans and Gold Star families interested in starting a work-from-home business can also purchase a Dream Vacations travel agency franchise at a 30 percent discount, receive an enlistment package valued at no less than $5,000 and have administrative fees waived, valued at $1,800.

In addition to access to the Command Center, an internal portal with veteran-specific training and marketing assets, veterans and Gold Star families receive waived training fees for a business partner and the ability to hire active-duty military spouses and fellow veterans as associates at a discount. Additional benefits include relocation flexibility, travel discounts for military customers and access to veteran networking groups.

“This summer is especially meaningful as Americans take advantage of the 250th anniversary to explore historic destinations across the country,” said Drew Daly, senior vice president and general manager of Dream Vacations. “It’s also an opportunity to recognize the service and sacrifice of our military community. Their dedication allows us to live the American Dream, and one of its most meaningful expressions is owning your own business. This contest provides a clear pathway for veterans to pursue entrepreneurship and build something of their own.”

The only travel franchise to receive a five-star ranking from the International Franchise Association’s VetFran initiative, Dream Vacations proudly supports military veterans and is consistently recognized by leading industry publications as a top veteran-friendly franchise. The company has ranked first or second out of 150 franchises nationwide in Entrepreneur magazine’s top franchise for veterans since 2017. Additional top rankings include Military Times and Forbes. Dream Vacations has also been recognized by G.I. Jobs, U.S. Veterans Magazine and USA Today, as well as honored by MSC Cruises with its Seaside Salute Award. The Operation Vetrepreneur program has earned gold honors from the Travel Weekly Magellan Awards and recognition from the IFA Franchising Gives Back Awards.

Military veterans with a passion for travel and entrepreneurship who are interested in opening a Dream Vacations franchise and applying for the Operation Vetrepreneur contest can visit Operation Vetrepreneur website or call 888-249-8235.

Photo Cutline: (From Left to Right) Shane and Jessica Gray, Dream Vacations Franchise Owners

About Dream Vacations
Dream Vacations is a home-based travel agency franchise that gives its advisors everything they need to plan smooth and memorable vacations for their clients— all while delivering great value. As part of World Travel Holdings and a proud member of the International Franchise Association, Dream Vacations has earned top honors, including franchise partner of the year from major cruise lines. The franchise is also nationally recognized for its strong commitment to supporting military veterans. For more details, visit www.DreamVacationsFranchise.com. You can also connect with Dream Vacations on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

Open only legal residents of 50 US/DC, 18 years of age and older, and are former members in good standing of any of the six (6) branches of the U.S. military (Army, Air Force, Navy, Marine Corps, Space Force, and Coast Guard) who are retired, off active duty and/or were honorably discharged prior to 7/1/26. Void in PR, USVI, U.S. Military installations in foreign countries, all other U.S. territories & possessions, and where prohibited by law. Contest entry period starts at 12:01 a.m. on 7/1/26 and ends at 11:59:59 p.m. ET on 8/31/26. Contest includes 2 rounds of phone interviews, the submission of a candidate profile & business plan and a video. Subject to Official Rules, including how to enter, judging criteria, prize details, and restrictions, see https://www.operationvetrepreneur.com/contest-rules/. Sponsor: CruiseOne, Inc., 1201 W. Cypress Creek Rd. Ste. 100, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309.

Media Contact:
Michael Cadigan
Manager, Public Relations & Corporate Communications
1-877-958-7447
media@wth.com

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SOURCE Dream Vacations

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PSE&G Urges Customers To Prepare for Continued Extreme Heat and Potential Thunderstorms Through the Holiday Weekend

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NEWARK, N.J., July 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — PSE&G is prepared for dangerous heat expected to continue through Saturday and the potential for strong thunderstorms over the holiday weekend. Customers are encouraged to take steps now to stay safe, manage their energy use and prepare for possible power outages.

According to the National Weather Service, an Extreme Heat Warning remains in effect through Saturday evening. Isolated thunderstorms are possible Friday afternoon followed by a greater risk of widespread thunderstorms Saturday with additional storms possible on Sunday primarily across southern New Jersey. Strong winds can bring down trees and power lines, resulting in localized power outages.

“We continue to closely watch the forecast and are prepared to respond to any impacts from the extreme heat and forecasted thunderstorms this holiday weekend,” said Paul Toscarelli, vice president, Electric Operations, PSE&G. “We’ve increased staffing, positioned crews across the service territory and secured the critical materials needed to respond safely and restore service as quickly as possible if outages occur.”

We encourage customers to prepare now by visiting pseg.com/StormSafety, knowing how to report an outage before one occurs and staying connected during severe weather.

Our call center is prepared to handle increased call volume, and additional appliance service technicians and staff are available to respond to requests for air conditioning system repairs.

How is PSE&G preparing for the heat wave?

PSE&G prepares year-round for severe weather by strengthening and modernizing the electric system and positioning crews and resources to respond safely when extreme weather occurs. Continued investments in infrastructure have helped us remain one of the nation’s most reliable utility companies and strengthen the electric system for the customers and communities we serve.

If outages occur, crews will assess damage and restore service safely, prioritizing repairs that restore power to the greatest number of customers as quickly as possible.

How can you stay safe during extreme heat?

Extreme heat and severe thunderstorms can create dangerous conditions. Customers are encouraged to:

Stay hydrated and avoid prolonged outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day. Never leave children or pets in parked vehicles.

Downed wires should always be considered “live.” Stay at least 30 feet away from downed wires, and don’t go near the pole or anything touching the wire. Immediately contact PSE&G, at 1-800-436-PSEG (7734), via our mobile app or our website, to report downed wires and dial 911 if an immediate hazard exists.

Charge phones, medical devices and backup batteries before storms arrive.

Secure outdoor furniture and other loose outdoor items.

Keep flashlights and fresh batteries readily available.

To prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, do not operate gasoline-powered generators inside a home, garage or other enclosed space.

Customers who rely on electricity to operate life-sustaining medical equipment should notify PSE&G in advance by visiting pseg.com/life or calling 1-800-436-7734, and should have a backup plan in the event of an outage.

For additional storm preparedness information, visit pseg.com/StormSafety.

How can you track and manage your energy use?

Air conditioners work harder during periods of prolonged heat, increasing household energy use. Customers can help reduce their energy use by:

Raising the thermostat a few degrees when away from home.

Using ceiling fans to circulate cool air.

Closing blinds and curtains on sun-facing windows.

Replacing or cleaning HVAC air filters regularly.

Customers can also use energy efficiency programs to manage and reduce usage. For tips, rebates, and to sign up for an energy efficiency audit, visit pseg.com/energyefficiency or pseg.com/saveenergy, or shop at marketplace.pseg.com.

Customers can also track and monitor their electricity use with MyMeter through My Account or the PSE&G mobile app.

Customers who need help paying their energy bill can learn about available assistance programs, including LIHEAP, SHARES, Equal Payment Plan and Deferred Payment Arrangements, at pseg.com/help.

Stay connected

Report an outage and receive status updates by texting OUT to 4PSEG (47734), through our app, on our website at pseg.com/myaccount, or call PSE&G at 1-800-436-PSEG (7734).  

Visit PSE&G’s Outage Map for the latest outage updates, restoration times and crew locations across New Jersey at pseg.com/outagecenter.  

Customers needing HVAC system repair, schedule an appointment via pseg.com/myaccount or call 1-800-350-PSEG (7734).

Customers can also follow @PSEGdelivers on X and @PSEG on Facebook and Instagram for updates during severe weather.

About PSE&G
Public Service Electric & Gas Co. is New Jersey’s oldest and largest gas and electric delivery public utility, as well as one of the nation’s largest utilities. PSE&G has won the ReliabilityOne® Award for superior electric system reliability in the Mid-Atlantic region for 24 consecutive years. In 2025, for the fourth consecutive year, J.D. Power named PSE&G number one in customer satisfaction for residential electric service in the East among large utilities. PSE&G is a subsidiary of Public Service Enterprise Group Inc., (PSEG) (NYSE:PEG), a predominantly regulated infrastructure company named to the Dow Jones Best in Class Index for North America for 18 consecutive years (www.pseg.com). 

CONTACT:

Media Relations
DL-ENT-pseg.communications@pseg.com

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SOURCE Public Service Electric & Gas Company (PSE&G)

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Storika Closes Seed Round to Scale AI-Native Creator Marketing Platform

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Powered by an AI orchestration layer that automates the full influencer campaign lifecycle, the platform will use the funding to accelerate U.S. market expansion.

SEATTLE, July 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Storika, an AI-native platform that automates end-to-end influencer marketing for direct-to-consumer brands, has closed a seed funding round on undisclosed terms. The round included a strategic investment from global beauty conglomerate Amorepacific, with participation from Schmidt, Hustle Fund, BonAngels Venture Partners, and Krew Capital.

Replacing the Marketing Operations Layer with AI

Influencer marketing has long been a manual, relationship-driven process. Brands spend significant resources identifying creators, managing outreach, negotiating terms, coordinating deliverables, and measuring results. Storika replaces that operational layer with an AI orchestrator that runs the complete campaign workflow autonomously, from discovery and personalized outreach through content delivery and performance tracking.

Unlike software dashboards that surface data for human action, Storika is built to act. Its AI orchestrator directs a network of specialized agents across each stage of campaign execution, learning from marketer feedback and past campaign results to improve accuracy over time. The platform draws on a database of more than seven million global creator profiles and structures creator, content, brand, and audience relationships in a graph database to surface fit beyond follower counts or keyword matching.

Current clients include Amorepacific and Hanpoom, a Korean food and lifestyle ecommerce platform, with a growing focus on U.S. D2C beauty and lifestyle brands. “We were highly impressed by Storika’s proprietary AI agent technology and the immense growth potential we see in the global creator marketing landscape,” said a representative from Amorepacific’s investment team.

Use of Proceeds

Storika will deploy the capital to advance its AI agent infrastructure and grow its U.S. B2B customer base. The platform goes live on July 15 at the Google for Startups Accelerator: Korea Demo Day.

“The era of running influencer campaigns on experience-based judgment and manual, spreadsheet-driven workflows is ending,” said Brice Lee, CEO of Storika. “AI-powered execution is taking its place, and brands that adopt it early will operate with a structural advantage in both cost and speed. With this funding and our July open beta, we are building the infrastructure that allows global D2C brands to run creator marketing with the precision and repeatability of software.”

About Storika

Storika is an AI-native creator marketing automation platform purpose-built for D2C brands. Powered by a database of over seven million global creator profiles, its AI orchestrator manages the full influencer campaign lifecycle, including discovery, outreach, execution, and performance analysis. Storika is headquartered in Seattle, Washington.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/storika-closes-seed-round-to-scale-ai-native-creator-marketing-platform-302817511.html

SOURCE Storika

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DCI Releases New Video Celebrating America 250 and the Firm’s Commitment to Helping Citizens and Businesses Engage in the Democratic Process

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WASHINGTON, July 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — On the eve of America’s 250th birthday, DCI today released a new video reflecting on the Nation’s founding and DCI’s three-decade record at the intersection of business, government, and public affairs — and on its conviction that American enterprise and an engaged citizenry remain the country’s most powerful engines of progress.

“America’s 250th anniversary is a moment to reflect on the enduring strength of American enterprise — and on the leadership that will shape what comes next,” said Justin Peterson, Managing Partner of DCI Group. “Our mission has always been to help clients navigate complexity with confidence. This video reflects that work, and our optimism for America’s next 250 years.”

The video frames a belief rooted in America’s founding: that free enterprise drives growth, innovation, and prosperity, and that citizens engaging in the democratic process can drive lasting change.

For 30 years, DCI has stood with individuals and companies facing high-stakes challenges and public crises. The firm’s integrated model brings together strategic communications, government affairs, coalition building, research, and stakeholder engagement to help clients build support, manage risk, and deliver results.

Please see our video here.

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SOURCE DCI

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