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Neopets Turns 25: A Virtual World that Shaped Generations

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Childhood Dreams Become Reality as Gaming Icon Comes to Life

LOS ANGELES, Nov. 25, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Neopets, the virtual universe that defined countless millennial childhoods, is breaking through screens and into reality as it celebrates its 25th anniversary! Fans are invited to dive back into the magical world of Neopia like never before. In honor of 25 years of shared joy, Neopets is launching a vibrant lineup of real-world events, pop-up gatherings, and tasty collaborations, sparking what fans are calling “The Neopian Renaissance.” These festivities offer a unique opportunity for devoted fans – who have kept the spirit of Neopia alive for a quarter-century – to connect face-to-face. It’s an open invitation for both old longtime players and new friends to unite and create new memories together.

(Download Full Media Pack & Detailed List of the Cities Here)

Dominic Law, CEO of Neopets, shared his thoughts on this milestone: “As Neopets marks its 25th anniversary, I can’t help but marvel at my own journey. Once, I was just another kid trading items and staying up late for quests, using Neopets to keep bonds alive with friends across oceans as I moved from Canada to Hong Kong. Today, I’m living a childhood dream, stewarding the very world that shaped my youth. This milestone celebrates more than just a game – it honors millions of friendships forged in Neopia, countless adventures shared, and a community that has made this virtual world feel like home. As we look to the next 25 years, I’m grateful to our passionate fans and partners who keep the magic of Neopets alive.

Virtual to Reality: Neopets Transforms 25-years of Digital Friendships

With fans spread across the globe; we are thrilled to support offline events throughout November. The love and enthusiasm from our community have been truly overwhelming, with close to 300 dedicated fans applying to host gatherings around the globe. These local celebrations have brought Neopets’ magic off the computer and into the real-world, creating a unique opportunity for fans to meet in person, many for the first time ever, bonding over the special place Neopets has in their heart. It’s heartwarming to see people who grew up exploring Neopia together reconnect, reliving cherished childhood memories while making new ones with their lifelong virtual companions. Participants bonded over cosplay contests, trivia challenges, and gaming sessions, crafting unforgettable experiences that elevated shared nostalgia to a whole new level.

These gatherings have become more than just meetups; they’re a phenomenon transcending online friendships from screens to long-lasting connections. They also stand as a testament to the enduring power of Neopets as a virtual companion in people’s lives for 25 years. With over 5,000 attendees across 40 cities, the response has been nothing short of extraordinary, bringing fans together to share stories and unforgettable memories. We have heard many incredibly heartwarming stories, but one that has stood out to us the most have been from our San Jose event host and Community Ambassador, Kay. She shared that Neopets has always been more than just a game; it’s a community that feels like family. Her daily interactions with her guildmates in Omneo have brought laughter, support, and friendships. “They make me laugh, they support me, they are lifelong friends. Many of them I’ve met in real life, but I leapt at the opportunity to get to know my Neopian neighbors better”. This event was also a touching tribute to a family tradition that began when her little sister introduced her to Neopets in 2000, “I’ve been making neofriends ever since”.

The incredible response from our meetups has inspired us to keep the celebrations going, with the next big gathering set for Asia at the Anime Festival Asia (AFA) – the largest anime convention in the region – this November in Singapore. Building on the success of our fan-led events, we’re bringing the celebratory spirit overseas, giving more fans the chance to be part of the magic. At AFA, Neopets will come to life with interactive experiences, exclusive merchandise, and spaces for fans to connect in person, celebrating their shared love for the game in a festive and immersive setting. It’s a chance to celebrate, shop, and meet others who share a love for the game.

From Pixels to Plates: Neopets Takes Over Fan-Favorite F&B brands

For fans who missed out on in-person events, or those craving even more ways to celebrate, Neopets has teamed up with some of the most popular food, and beverage spots to add a dash of Neopia to daily life. Get ready to set Instagram feeds ablaze with cult-favorite food spots to create photo-worthy experiences that are already generating waitlists:

Tsun Scoops (November 17 – December 14) in Garden Grove, CA, will serve limited-edition ice cream flavors inspired by Neopia, alongside Neopets-branded cups, spoons, and collectible merchandise.Yifang Taiwan Fruit Tea (November 25 – December 25) will transform nine California locations into Neopian outposts with themed drinksand exclusive cup sleeves, featuring characters like Kacheek and Aisha.It’s Boba Time (May 2025) in 100 locations across the US will feature Neopets-themed décor and giveaways, making every visit a mini Neopian party with collectible pins and stickers.

These partnerships are designed to be more than a simple treat; they’re a chance for fans to live in the world of Neopets in a whole new way and make every sip, spoonful, or visit a small, delightful toast to the game.

As Neopets celebrates 25 years, this milestone year shows how much love the community has for the brand, and it’s just the beginning. From local fan-led events and global conventions to delicious treats, Neopets is building on its iconic IP to bring the Neopian experience into everyday life. With a renewed focus on being the ultimate virtual companion and a source of joy and nostalgia, Neopets is here to stay, ready to grow and inspire the next generation of fans for years to come.

About Neopets

Founded in 1999, Neopets is the first digital native virtual pet platform that has captured the hearts of over 150 million players worldwide. Under new leadership since July 2023, Neopets has launched a robust revival, bringing back 100+ classic mini-games, introducing new storylines, and expanding into mobile gaming. Through strategic partnerships in collectibles, merchandise, and tabletop gaming, Neopets bridges digital and physical experiences while maintaining its core values of creativity and community. Now celebrating its 25th anniversary, Neopets continues to evolve as an inclusive entertainment brand that connects generations of players through shared adventures in Neopia.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/neopets-turns-25-a-virtual-world-that-shaped-generations-302315583.html

SOURCE Neopets

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DTE Energy intends to pause future electric rate requests following upcoming filing as data centers come online

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Affordability benefits from data centers expected to help offset reliability investments for all customers

DETROIT, April 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — DTE Energy (NYSE: DTE) announced today that its electric company intends to forego asking for rate increases for at least two years following its upcoming filing with the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) on April 28, 2026.

“Now more than ever, we know affordability matters to our customers – and we’re doing everything we can to keep energy bills as low as possible while also providing the reliable power they need,” said Joi Harris, president and chief executive officer, DTE Energy. “As long as the first data center project we’re supporting comes online as planned by the end of 2027 and we’re able to receive other regulatory approvals, we will refrain from filing another rate request until at least 2028—providing customers two years without an increase in rates after the current request is complete.”

Affordability Benefits of Data Center Development

When a new large customer is brought onto the electric system, fixed costs can be spread more widely. DTE’s two data center contracts – one approved and one currently with the MPSC for approval – will contribute nearly $9 billion to improving DTE’s electric system through 2045, helping to reduce the total amount needed from other customers.

“That’s why we’re excited to see the expected benefits of responsible data center development come to fruition,” said Harris. “This new industry is not only helping to grow Michigan’s economy, but once the data centers are fully online, it will make energy more affordable for all customers while bolstering our investments in creating the grid of the future.” 

Upcoming investment request

DTE Electric’s upcoming investment request is designed to build on recent reliability gains and continue strengthening its electric grid for the customers and communities the company serves in southeast Michigan. The request reflects DTE’s ongoing commitment to targeted investments that reduce outages, restore power faster when interruptions do occur and ensure reliable and cleaner energy for customers every day.

In 2025, DTE’s electric customers experienced the company’s best reliability performance in nearly 20 years — progress driven by sustained investments in tree trimming, grid hardening, automation and other system improvements.

“Reliable power isn’t just about keeping the lights on, it’s about supporting families, businesses and the broader Michigan economy,” said Matt Paul, president and chief operating officer, DTE Electric. “While we’re proud of our progress, we know we have more work ahead. Every investment we make moves us closer to our goal: a stronger, more reliable grid for every DTE customer, no matter the weather.”

As DTE continues investing in reliability and cleaner energy, the company is focused on limiting the long-term impact on customer bills and reducing the need for future rate requests. DTE continues to drive efficiencies in its operations and expects growing data center development to create meaningful customer affordability benefits over time.

What Happens Next

The filing on April 28 represents a formal request of $474.3 million to support several billion dollars of investment in the electric grid and power generation, marking the beginning of an approximately 10‑month regulatory review process. A final decision by the MPSC and any potential rate changes are not expected until late February 2027.

Key Things Media Should Know

The filing itself does not result in a bill increase. The filing will be reviewed by the MPSC as a contested case with opportunity for intervenor testimony. A final decision on the rate request will not be received from the MPSC until February 2027, with a customer rate change happening soon after.

Customers are seeing real reliability improvements – when we invest, it works.
DTE delivered its most reliable year in nearly 20 years in 2025, reducing the time customers spent without power by 60% compared to 2024, building on a 70% improvement the year before. Continued investment is essential to delivering the reliability customers demand and deserve. Learn more: Building a stronger, more reliable electric grid for you

These investments are enhancing DTE’s clean energy advancements. The upcoming filing also supports the completion of the conversion of the Belle River Power Plant from coal to natural gas as well as the development of the Trenton Channel Energy Center – expected to be the largest stand-along battery energy storage facility in the Great Lakes region when it is commissioned. Learn more: DTE CleanVision IRP: Roadmap to Net Zero by 2050

DTE remains focused on affordability. Since 2021, DTE’s electric bill growth has been among the lowest in the country. Residential electric bills are in the first quartile nationally and remain below the state of Michigan, Great Lakes region and national averages. For more information about DTE’s plans to build the energy grid of the future and the impact of our investment requests, visit https://www.dteenergy.com/future

No costs related to data centers are included in this investment request and data centers will not raise customer rates. Data centers—including the one DTE has been approved to support in Saline Township and the project under review in Van Buren Township – are governed by separate contracts and are required to pay the full cost of the infrastructure needed to serve them, ensuring other customers are protected. DTE customers will NOT subsidize data center rates. For more information, visit dteenergy.com/datacenterfacts

About DTE Energy 

DTE Energy (NYSE:DTE) is a Detroit-based diversified energy company involved in the development and management of energy-related businesses and services nationwide. Its operating units include an electric company serving 2.3 million customers in Southeast Michigan and a natural gas company serving 1.4 million customers across Michigan. The DTE portfolio also includes energy businesses focused on custom energy solutions, renewable energy generation, and energy marketing and trading. DTE has continued to accelerate its carbon reduction goals to meet aggressive targets and is committed to serving with its energy through volunteerism, education and employment initiatives, philanthropy, emission reductions and economic progress. Information about DTE is available at dteenergy.com, empoweringmichigan.com, x.com/DTE_Energy and facebook.com/dteenergy.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/dte-energy-intends-to-pause-future-electric-rate-requests-following-upcoming-filing-as-data-centers-come-online-302752078.html

SOURCE DTE Energy

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Therap Timesheet Module: Simplifying Staff Hours and Activity Management

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TORRINGTON, Conn., April 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Therap Services, the national leader in HIPAA-compliant electronic documentation solutions for organizations in Long-Term Services and Supports (LTSS), Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS), and other human services industries, has introduced a new Timesheet module designed to simplify how staff track daily work activities and paid/unpaid time off, helping agencies reduce administrative complexity and focus more on delivering quality services.

Centralized Time Tracking and Administration

The Timesheet module brings staff time tracking into one centralized system, reducing the need for manual processes and disconnected tools. Agencies can track staff activities consistently across teams, improving clarity and standardization.

Flexible Timesheet Creation and Approval Workflow

With built-in workflows for submitting and reviewing time entries, the module helps reduce administrative burden while supporting timely approvals. Agencies gain better control over staff hours, helping ensure accurate records and smoother internal processes.

Self-Service Tools for Staff

Staff can easily log their hours and time off through a simple interface, empowering them to manage their own entries. This reduces back-and-forth communication and allows teams to focus more on service delivery.

Dynamic Views and Navigation

Multiple viewing options make it easier for both staff and administrators to understand schedules at a glance. This improved visibility supports better planning, coordination, and day-to-day decision-making, especially in fast-paced service environments.

Integrated EVV and Visual Tracking

By aligning timesheet entries with scheduled services, the module helps promote consistency between recorded time and delivered services. Visual indicators show the status of entries at a glance, making oversight more efficient and helping agencies stay compliant and audit-ready.

Why This Matters for Providers

The Timesheet module helps agencies:

Reduce manual effort and administrative workloadImprove accuracy and consistency in staff time trackingIncrease visibility into staff activities and schedulesSupport timely approvals and better oversightStrengthen alignment between services and recorded time

To know more, visit:

https://www.therapservices.net/products/comprehensive-esolution-for-person-centered-services/

About Therap Services

Therap’s comprehensive and HIPAA-compliant software is used in human services settings for documentation, communication, reporting, EVV and billing.

Learn more at:

https://www.therapservices.net/

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/therap-timesheet-module-simplifying-staff-hours-and-activity-management-302752012.html

SOURCE Therap Services

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Groundfloor Co-Founder and CEO Brian Dally Named Entrepreneur Of The Year® 2026 Southeast Finalist by EY US

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EY US celebrates entrepreneurs shaping the future of business

ATLANTA, April 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Groundfloor, the award-winning private markets platform, today announced that its co-founder and CEO, Brian Dally, has been named one of 35 finalists for the Entrepreneur Of The Year® 2026 Southeast Award, one of the most prestigious awards programs in the world.

Now in its 41st year, the Entrepreneur Of The Year program by EY US celebrates leaders who reshape industries, drive innovation, and create long-term value. An independent panel of judges selected Dally as a finalist following a rigorous application and interview process.

“We built Groundfloor from day one for the purpose of opening access to private markets on equal terms for the full spectrum of individual retail investors,” said Dally. “The importance of that mission has always been fuel for overcoming the barriers, misapprehensions, and challenges we’ve faced. I am profoundly grateful for this recognition, my 13-year partnership with Nick, and the believers who contributed their talent, capital, and ideas to making it possible.”

After a successful stint with Republic Wireless, where he helped deliver affordable mobile phone access to millions, Dally launched Groundfloor with the goal of expanding access to private capital markets. Despite early skepticism from industry experts, he and his co-founder, Nick Bhargava, invested significant personal resources and navigated complex regulatory hurdles to bring the concept to life. Their efforts led to the first-ever SEC qualification of its kind, opening a new pathway for individual investors to participate in private markets.

Under Dally’s leadership, Groundfloor has grown into a category leader with more than 300,000 registered users who have invested over $2.2 billion across its platform. The company pioneered fractional investments into deferred pay business purpose residential real estate debt, a now widely recognized asset class, and has continued to innovate with products like Groundfloor Notes. In keeping the company aligned with its vision, Dally also turned to individual investors instead of VCs for growth capital. Groundfloor is now proudly owned by 32% of its own customers.

Over the last 13 years, Groundfloor has been widely recognized for its innovation, growth, and unique approach to fundraising, earning accolades including the Forbes Fintech 50, Benzinga’s Best Alternative Investment Platform, and six consecutive years on the Inc. 5000 list.

Regional award winners for the Entrepreneur Of The Year 2026 Southeast Award will be announced on June 18th in Charlotte, N.C., and will go on to be considered for national honors later this year.

About Groundfloor
Groundfloor is an award-winning investing and lending company that unlocks institutional-grade private markets for investors and borrowers. Known for its regulatory prowess and developing new financial products, the company was the very first to be qualified to offer direct real estate debt investments for both accredited and non-accredited audiences alike. Groundfloor has won numerous awards for its product innovation and growth, including the Forbes Fintech 50 and six years in a row of being on the Inc. 5000. Since it launched in 2013, Groundfloor’s investors have invested $2.2 billion across its offerings. Start investing or borrowing at Groundfloor.com.

About Entrepreneur Of The Year ®
Founded in 1986, Entrepreneur Of The Year ® has celebrated more than 11,000 ambitious visionaries who are leading successful, dynamic businesses in the US, and it has since expanded to nearly 80 countries and territories globally. The US program consists of 17 regional programs whose panels of independent judges select the regional award winners every June. Those winners compete for national recognition at the Strategic Growth Forum ® in November where national finalists and award winners are announced. The national overall winner represents the US at the World Entrepreneur Of The Year ® competition. Visit ey.com/us/eoy.

Media Contact:
Hela Sheth
hela@katalystcomms.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/groundfloor-co-founder-and-ceo-brian-dally-named-entrepreneur-of-the-year-2026-southeast-finalist-by-ey-us-302752071.html

SOURCE Groundfloor Finance Inc.

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