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Redefine Alliance and IL RESET Statement on Illinois Governor Pritzker’s Signing of HB 3751

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New law recognizes employment social enterprises within the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity’s Office of Economic Equity and Empowerment

CHICAGO, Aug. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Redefine Alliance and IL RESET (Illinois Resourcing Employment Social Enterprises Together) are thrilled to celebrate Governor JB Pritzker’s signing of House Bill 3751 into law. This marks a significant milestone for inclusive employment, and helps continue to pave a pathway to quality jobs for hundreds of thousands of Illinoisans living with systemic barriers to employment.

The new law formally includes employment social enterprises (ESEs) within the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity’s Office of Economic Equity and Empowerment (OEEE). Through this, Illinois ESEs will now receive access to state-driven business assistance programs, technical support, grants, loans, and procurement opportunities, creating opportunities to scale these economic engines and employ more Illinoisans.

ESEs are mission-driven, revenue-generating businesses that combine commercial enterprise with workforce development. These nonprofit and for-profit enterprises provide employment, job training, and supportive services to individuals facing significant barriers to employment, including those with experiences of incarceration, homelessness, disabilities, substance use disorders, and mental health challenges. In Illinois more than 1.7 million Illinoisans are justice impacted, more than 200,000 Illinoisans are experiencing housing instability, and more than 2 million Illinoisans have a mental health condition.

Illinois is only the third state in the nation to define ESEs in state law.

“This legislation recognizes that economic development and workforce development go hand in hand,” said State Senator Celina Villanueva (D-Chicago), the bill’s Senate sponsor. “Employment social enterprises prove every day that investing in people creates stronger businesses, stronger communities, and a stronger Illinois economy. By ensuring these organizations have access to the same economic development resources available to other businesses, we’re opening new doors for innovation, job creation, and economic opportunity for Illinoisans who have too often been left behind.”

Representative Jawaharial Williams (D-Chicago), the House sponsor, said the legislation reflects Illinois’ commitment to building an economy that works for everyone.

“Employment social enterprises create real jobs while helping people overcome barriers to employment. This law acknowledges the tremendous value these organizations bring to our workforce and economy by ensuring they have a seat at the table in Illinois’ economic development efforts.”

ESEs have demonstrated significant economic and social impact, both across Illinois and around the country. Research has found that employment social enterprises generate an estimated $2.23 in benefits for every $1 spent, producing returns for taxpayers, governments, and businesses while reducing reliance on public assistance and lowering recidivism.

The legislation was supported by the Illinois Resourcing Employment Social Enterprises Together (IL RESET) coalition, representing more than 33 ESEs across Illinois. IL RESET is a state coalition organized by Redefine Alliance, an intermediary that invests capital via grants, loans, and technical assistance into ESEs across the country.

Redefine Alliance

“Today marks an important milestone for employment social enterprises across Illinois,” said Manie Grewal, head of policy at Redefine Alliance. “This law recognizes that businesses can create both economic opportunity and social impact, the third such law passed in the country. By ensuring employment social enterprises have access to the state’s economic development ecosystem, Illinois is investing in innovative businesses that strengthen communities, expand our workforce, and create pathways to for talented people who have been sidelined by the labor market. Redefine Alliance is grateful to Governor Pritzker, Senator Celina Villanueva, Representative Jawaharial Williams, and the bipartisan coalition of legislators and advocates who helped make this vision law.”

New Moms – IL RESET member

“At New Moms, we are always exploring innovative ways to support young moms’ pursuit of economic mobility,” said Anne VanderWeele, vice president of policy and government affairs at New Moms. “We know that when families have the peace of mind a reliable income provides, they are better able to pursue further employment and educational goals. Our employment social enterprise, Bright Endeavors, provides real-time job training and experience through paid transitional jobs in our manufacturing business. We also contribute to the local economy with a thriving small business. It’s a win for them, a win for us, and a win for our community.”

CONTACT:
Senior Manager, Marketing & Communications, Redefine Alliance
420633@email4pr.com | (415) 510-6021

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Hall, Kistler & Company Celebrates 85 Years of Service, Community Impact, and Continued Growth

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Hall, Kistler & Company LLP, a Canton-based certified public accounting and advisory firm, is celebrating its 85th anniversary in 2026, marking nearly a century of service to businesses, individuals, and nonprofit organizations throughout Stark County and beyond.

CANTON, Ohio, Aug. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Hall, Kistler & Company LLP, a Canton-based certified public accounting and advisory firm, is celebrating its 85th anniversary in 2026, marking nearly a century of service to businesses, individuals, and nonprofit organizations throughout Stark County and beyond.

“For us, this milestone reflects the relationships we’ve built and the responsibility we feel to the community that has supported us.” — Keith Arner, CPA, CVA

Founded in 1941, Hall, Kistler provides tax, audit, accounting, valuation, and strategic advisory services. While 85 years in business is a meaningful milestone, firm leadership says the anniversary represents more than longevity.

“For us, this milestone reflects the relationships we’ve built and the responsibility we feel to the community that has supported us,” said Keith Arner, CPA, CVA. “We are grateful to the clients and team members, past and present, who have trusted us and helped shape our firm over the last 85 years.”

A Commitment Beyond the Numbers

From its earliest days, Hall, Kistler has maintained a strong commitment to strengthening the local community. The firm’s professionals serve in leadership roles, volunteer their time, and support initiatives that contribute to the region’s economic vitality and quality of life.

Through its work advising businesses, nonprofits, and families, HK has helped organizations grow responsibly, navigate change, and plan for the future. By supporting companies and individuals who invest in the community themselves, the firm’s impact extends well beyond the services it provides.

“We believe strong businesses build strong communities,” said Franklin Arner, CPA. “When our clients succeed, our community benefits. That belief continues to guide our work.”

Positioned for the Future

Throughout economic shifts, regulatory changes, and generational transitions, HK has remained a steady and trusted partner. The firm continues to invest in its people, technology, and service offerings to meet the evolving needs of clients.

With a multigenerational team and a long-term focus, Hall, Kistler is well-positioned to continue serving clients for years to come.

“As we reflect on the past, we are equally focused on the future,” said Seth Turner, CVA, CPA. “We are proud of our history and excited about the opportunities ahead as we work toward our 100th year and beyond.”

Expanding into Wealth Management

In keeping with its long-standing commitment to helping clients plan for the future, Hall, Kistler, is pleased to introduce HK Wealth Management LLC.

HK Wealth Management was created to help clients receive more coordinated guidance across taxes, investments, retirement planning, business transitions, estate planning, and long-term wealth management.

Through a strategic relationship with Pinnacle Advisors, HK Wealth Management combines the trusted tax and advisory relationship clients already have with Hall, Kistler and the wealth management platform, CFP® planning professionals, investment process, trust capabilities, technology, reporting, and operational support of Pinnacle.

HK will remain actively involved in the client relationship, helping ensure planning conversations stay coordinated and aligned with each client’s overall financial picture.

As Hall, Kistler celebrates 85 years, the firm extends sincere appreciation to the clients who have placed their trust in HK across generations and to the professionals whose dedication has built its reputation.

With nearly a century of history behind it and a clear vision ahead, Hall, Kistler remains committed to serving its clients and community for generations to come.

For more information, visit www.hallkistler.com.

Media Contact

Seth A. Turner, CPA, CVA, Hall, Kistler & Company, 1 330-453-7633, seth@hallkistler.com, www.hallkistler.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prweb.com/releases/hall-kistler–company-celebrates-85-years-of-service-community-impact-and-continued-growth-302849367.html

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Equity Trust Launches Crypto IRA Lineup with Automated and Self-Trading Investing Options

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WESTLAKE, Ohio, Aug. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Equity Trust Company, a leading financial services company with over 50 years of experience, today announced the expansion of its Crypto IRA offering, giving retirement investors more ways to hold digital assets within a tax-advantaged account. The expanded lineup gives investors two dedicated ways to invest in cryptocurrency through an IRA, with $0 fees to open either account.

The Automated Crypto IRA is an AI-driven, algorithmic solution powered by award-winning Animus Technologies that Equity Trust IRA customers can access with just a $25,000 minimum investment, a fraction of the $250,000 minimum required of after-tax and institutional investors. Animus uses proprietary algorithms to continuously evaluate market conditions and automatically recommend and execute Bitcoin and Ethereum trades using predefined, rules-based investment models. According to Animus CEO, Maximilian Pace, “Our relationship with Equity Trust provides IRA investors access to automated, institutional-grade technology to maintain a disciplined crypto strategy inside their tax-advantaged account.” 

The Equity Crypto IRA is a self-traded account that gives hands-on investors the flexibility to buy, sell, and hold a broad range of cryptocurrencies. Investors who choose the self-traded Equity Crypto IRA place their trades through Equity Trust’s proprietary Digital Trading Platform, an integrated experience within the myEQUITY online account management system that allows investors to buy, sell, and hold a broad range of cryptocurrencies within their IRA. Through the Digital Trading Platform, Equity Trust provides access to a range of eligible digital assets across multiple categories, including large-cap cryptocurrencies, stablecoins, decentralized finance (DeFi), AI & blockchain infrastructure, payments & digital commerce, and blockchain innovation to meet the broad portfolio needs of crypto investors.

Security is foundational to Equity Trust. That’s why all digital assets are held using institutional-grade custody and cold wallet protection backed by specialty insurance coverage. This best-in-class approach delivers a secure, purpose-built solution that gives investors direct cryptocurrency ownership within a tax-advantaged IRA.

“As investors’ interest in digital assets continues to evolve, they’re looking for solutions that offer both innovation and confidence,” said George Sullivan, Chief Executive Officer of Equity Trust Company. “Our goal is to give retirement investors greater choice in how they invest. Whether they want a fully self-traded experience with our Equity Crypto IRA or a more automated approach with our Automated Crypto IRA, our expanded offering meets investors where they are, backed by the security and custody solutions they expect from Equity Trust.”

For decades, Equity Trust has helped retirement investors diversify beyond traditional stocks and bonds by providing access to a broad range of alternative investments. Today, that same philosophy extends further with an expanded and enhanced cryptocurrency experience, giving eligible investors direct ownership of digital assets within their IRA through the Equity Crypto IRA and the Automated Crypto IRA — both supported by institutional-grade security.

To learn more about Equity Trust’s Crypto IRA solutions, visit https://www.trustetc.com/crypto-ira/

About Equity Trust Company
With more than 50 years of experience, Equity Trust Company has helped retirement investors diversify beyond traditional investments through self-directed retirement accounts. Equity Trust provides custody and administration services for a broad range of alternative assets, including real estate, private equity, private lending, precious metals, digital assets, and more.

Equity Trust Company is a directed custodian and does not provide tax, legal or investment advice. Any information communicated by Equity Trust is for educational purposes only, and should not be construed as tax, legal or investment advice. Whenever making an investment decision, please consult with your tax attorney or financial professional.

Newsroom

Sharae Richmond
Manager, Content Strategy
s.richmond@trustetc.com

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fal Launches fal Agent, a Creative Partner for Frontier Generative Media

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fal’s new creative AI agent helps creatives and developers bring ideas to life across the world’s leading image, video, and 3D models while maintaining context and consistency from concept to final delivery.

SAN FRANCISCO, Aug. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — fal today announced fal Agent, a creative partner that works across every top generative media models to orchestrate production-ready creative workflows.

The launch comes amid one of the fastest periods of innovation in generative media, following the release of frontier models such as MiniMax H3, FLUX.3, and Seedance 2.5. As model capabilities continue to improve, the challenge has shifted from accessing great models to knowing which ones to use, how to combine them, and how to maintain creative consistency across an entire production.

fal Agent is built to solve that challenge.

Rather than acting as another standalone model, fal Agent serves as a creative partner that orchestrates the best models for each task, carries context across generations, and preserves characters, assets, references, and creative intent throughout an entire workflow.

“We’ve been building fal Agent meticulously for this moment,” said Gorkem Yurtseven, CTO and Co-founder of fal. “Creatives should spend less time orchestrating models and more time focusing on the story they’re trying to tell. As this next generation of image and video models arrives, I believe we’re getting very close to seeing the first timeless works of generative media.”

A unified creative process

fal Agent enables creatives to move naturally between image, video, and 3D generation without rebuilding prompts, recreating references, or starting over each time they switch models.

Instead of treating every generation as an isolated request, fal Agent maintains project memory throughout the creative process, making it possible to iterate over days or weeks while keeping creative decisions, references, and visual consistency intact.

“The ecosystem has exploded with incredible image, video, and 3D models, but using them together still feels fragmented,” said Apek Panigrahi, Product Engineer at fal. “We built fal Agent to give creatives a single interface where they can have a conversation, move naturally between models, keep iterating, and maintain context and consistency from start to finish.”

Key capabilities include:

Automatically selecting the best model for each creative taskMaintaining consistent characters, objects, references, and visual styles across generationsPreserving project memory so creative work can resume with full contextSeamlessly switching between image, video, and 3D workflowsSupporting collaborative creative projects with shared workspaces and reusable creative skills

Projects retain their own memory, references, and creative history, allowing teams to pick work back up weeks later without losing momentum. References remain attached to the project instead of individual prompts, making creative iteration significantly more natural.

Built for developers

Like every product on fal, fal Agent is designed to integrate directly into production workflows.

In addition to its conversational interface, fal Agent can be integrated into applications programmatically through its API and is designed to work alongside fal’s CLI and MCP server, making it a building block for developers creating the next generation of AI-powered creative tools.

Whether used by an individual creative or embedded into a larger production pipeline, fal Agent provides a consistent interface for orchestrating workflows across the rapidly expanding generative media ecosystem.

Infrastructure for generative media

fal Agent is built on fal’s production-ready generative media platform, giving users access to the world’s leading image, video, audio, and 3D models through a unified experience powered by fal’s inference infrastructure.

Every workflow runs on the same platform trusted by millions of developers, with fast inference, built-in concurrency, scalable infrastructure, and enterprise-ready reliability. Creatives get the simplicity of a creative partner, while developers retain the performance and control of the underlying platform.

As new frontier models become available, they are integrated directly into fal Agent, allowing creatives to immediately experiment with the latest capabilities without changing tools or rebuilding workflows.

Availability

fal Agent is available today in early access.

Customers can access fal Agent by purchasing add-on credits, which can be used across the entire fal platform.

Learn more at fal.ai/agent.

About fal

fal is a generative media platform that provides developers with access to the world’s best generative image, video, and audio models through a unified API. Trusted by over 2.5 million developers and leading companies, fal offers the fastest inference engine for diffusion models, on-demand serverless GPUs, and dedicated compute clusters for frontier research. Learn more at fal.ai.

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SOURCE fal

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