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South Coast AQMD Expands Air Purifier Program for Communities Near the Palos Fire

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4 months ago

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$5 Million in Additional Funding Approved

DIAMOND BAR, Calif., July 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — In response to the ongoing impacts of the 2026 Palos Fire in Boyle Heights, the South Coast Air Quality Management District (South Coast AQMD) Governing Board today approved up to $5 million in additional funding to provide air purifiers to local residents as quickly as possible.

“The community has made it clear that this program is needed, with thousands of residents already applying since the start of the fire,” said Michael Cacciotti, South Coast AQMD Governing Board Chair. “This additional funding allows us to expand the program and make it as easy and as fast as possible for eligible residents to receive up to two HEPA air purifiers and three years of replacement filters.”

The funding will expand South Coast AQMD’s AB 617 Residential Air Filtration Program and help residents in Boyle Heights and surrounding communities during cleanup activities. Over the past two weeks, South Coast AQMD received about 2,000 applications for air filtration units due to the 2026 Palos Fire. Cleanup efforts, including the removal of approximately 85 million pounds of food waste from a 500,000-square-foot warehouse may generate increased dust, particulate matter (PM) and odors from demolition work, debris removal, and truck traffic. Air purifiers can help reduce indoor exposure, offering added protection for children, seniors, and individuals with respiratory conditions.

What Does the Program Provide?

Eligible households can receive up to two CARB certified, High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) purifiers that remove 99.97% of particles from indoor air, effectively filter smoke and dust particles and are ENERGY STAR certified.Three-year supply of replacement filters.All items will be shipped directly to applicant at no cost. South Coast AQMD is working with multiple vendors to expedite delivery and distribution process.

Eligibility and Program Requirements

To be eligible, applicant must live in the East Los Angeles, Boyle Heights, and West Commerce (ELABHWC) community.Applicants must show a government issued ID and/or utility bill (water, gas, electric) to verify residence.Air purifiers are available on a first-come, first-served basis until funds are exhausted.The program is currently open and residents can submit applications online at www.aqmd.gov/raf.

Application Outreach Events

South Coast AQMD is actively working with local and state elected officials, community-based organizations, and environmental groups to identify outreach events and opportunities to provide in person assistance to eligible residents with application submission.

Once those events are finalized, South Coast AQMD will conduct outreach in both English and Spanish to ensure residents are aware of and can easily access the program. Outreach efforts include:

Participation in local community meetings and events, including farmers markets and neighborhood gatherings.Engagement through the AB 617 ELABHWC Community Steering Committee.Online updates and resources through South Coast AQMD’s website.

For more information on the Residential Air Filtration Program administered through the AB617 Community Air Protection Program, please visit: Residential Air Filtration Incentives.

The air purifier program is one of several actions South Coast AQMD is taking to help protect public health during cleanup efforts, alongside air monitoring, inspections, and ongoing community outreach. South Coast AQMD is working with partner city and county agencies to help minimize odors during cleanup efforts. For information on South Coast AQMD’s ongoing efforts following the Palos Fire (Boyle Heights), including access to air monitoring data, visit: www.aqmd.gov/palos. Residents may report odors, smoke, and other air quality issues to South Coast AQMD by calling 1-800-CUT-SMOG (288-7664), via our online complaint portal at www.aqmd.gov/complaints, or through our mobile app.

South Coast AQMD is the regulatory agency responsible for improving air quality for large areas of Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside and San Bernardino counties, including the Coachella Valley. For news, air quality alerts, event updates and more, please visit us at www.aqmd.gov, download our award-winning app, or follow us on Facebook, X (formerly known as Twitter) and Instagram.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/south-coast-aqmd-expands-air-purifier-program-for-communities-near-the-palos-fire-302817214.html

SOURCE SOUTH COAST AQMD

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STEPHEN A. SMITH ADDRESSES WHITE HOUSE DINNER ATTENDANCE, REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO HBCUs AND PROTECTING CORPORATE INVESTMENT IN BLACK EDUCATION

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48 minutes ago

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October 24, 2026

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NEW YORK, Oct. 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Stephen A. Smith, media mogul, New York Times bestselling author, and proud 1991 graduate of Winston-Salem State University, is addressing the public discussion surrounding his decision to attend a White House dinner with President Donald Trump, emphasizing his commitment to the long-term financial stability of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).

For Smith, the decision was rooted in a commitment to institutions that have educated generations of Black leaders, professionals, entrepreneurs, and public servants.

“I will always advocate for HBCUs and the students whose futures depend on them,” Smith said. “My reason for attending the White House dinner was to discuss the challenges these institutions face in securing long-term funding and to make the case that corporate America must continue to invest in them.”

Smith acknowledged federal support through the FUTURE Act while expressing concern that political tensions surrounding diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) could discourage private companies from supporting HBCUs. He maintains that these institutions deserve sustained corporate partnerships, philanthropic contributions, and public investment.

“If we truly believe in free-market capitalism, businesses should be able to support educational institutions and charitable causes without fear of criticism or repercussions,” Smith said. “HBCUs have made extraordinary contributions to this country. They deserve sustained public and private investment.”

Ashley Christopher, Esq., Founder and CEO of the HBCU Week Foundation, recognized Smith’s advocacy and decision to engage with the administration.

“Stephen A. Smith has been a powerful advocate for HBCUs, using his platform and influence to shine a national spotlight on our institutions,” expressed Christopher, “His continued support of HBCU Week helps advance our mission of connecting students with life-changing educational opportunities, and we are proud to have him as our ambassador.”

Since Smith became an HBCU Week Ambassador in 2019, the initiative has facilitated more than 15,000 on-the-spot college acceptances and raised and awarded more than $150 million in scholarships, according to the HBCU Week Foundation.

As public discussion continues, Smith is emphasizing the importance of ensuring HBCUs have the resources and partnerships needed to educate future generations and expand opportunities for students.

CLICK HERE to watch Smith’s full response to his White House visit.

MEDIA CONTACT:

media@mrsasinc.com

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/stephen-a-smith-addresses-white-house-dinner-attendance-reaffirms-commitment-to-hbcus-and-protecting-corporate-investment-in-black-education-302918547.html

SOURCE Straight Shooter Media

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Advantex Announces Completion of Financing and Extension of Maturity Date of Previously Issued Debentures

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48 minutes ago

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October 24, 2026

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TORONTO, Oct. 23, 2026 /CNW/ — Advantex Marketing International Inc. (CSE: ADX) (“Advantex”), a leader in the merchant cash advance and loyalty marketing products for merchants, today announced the completion of a $250,000 secured debt financing. Advantex issued a $250,000 non-convertible debenture which bears an interest rate at 12% per annum and matures December 15, 2027. The proceeds raised from this issuance of the Debenture will be used for working capital purposes.

Advantex has also extended the maturity of its existing $700,000 in 12% secured debentures from October 10, 2026 to December 15, 2027.

About Advantex Marketing International Inc.

Advantex provides working capital to merchants. Advantex also provides specialized marketing programs that enable members of Aeroplan to earn Aeroplan points at participating merchants.

Advantex shares trade on the Canadian Securities Exchange under the symbol ADX. For more information go to Advantex’s profile on www.sedar.com

Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of applicable securities laws relating to the future business and operations of Advantex. Actual results and developments may differ materially from those contemplated by these statements. The business and operations of Advantex described herein is dependent on a number of factors and is subject to a number of risks and uncertainties. Factors that could cause actual results to differ material include, but are not limited to, changes in Advantex’s economic and competitive conditions including but not limited to the industry sectors in which Advantex operates.

The statements in this news release are made of the date of this release. Forward-looking statements are made based on management’s beliefs, estimates and opinions on the date the statements are made and Advantex undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements if these beliefs, estimates and opinions or other circumstances should change, except as required by applicable law.

SOURCE Advantex Marketing International Inc.

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Club Offers for Travel Enthusiasts in Canada

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2 hours ago

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October 23, 2026

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TORONTO, Oct 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Travelzoo® (NASDAQ: TZOO), the club for travel enthusiasts, announces three of many new Club Offers for Club Members in Canada.

Rigorously vetted and negotiated for us travel enthusiasts:

$799—COSTA RICA WEEK WITH FLIGHTS & CAR
We think fall is an ideal time to visit Costa Rica; the scenery is lush and the crowds are gone. Drive between volcanic Arenal and the idyllic beaches of Tamarindo on this seven-night trip. Since it’s not as busy, we were able to negotiate a price that saves members up to $648 on departures through mid-December.

$899—BARCELONA: 5 NIGHTS WITH FLIGHTS
Explore Barcelona’s world-class museums and architectural masterpieces in the quieter winter months to pack more into your trip. You won’t waste hours in lines and can access top restaurants that are fully booked in summer. We save $300 on travel this January and February, when temperatures are still spring-like. Roundtrip flights from Toronto, hotel and daily breakfast are included.

$999—ST. KITTS GETAWAY FOR 2, REG. $2083
Most visitors to St. Kitts book months in advance, but when we pointed out that travel enthusiasts are more spontaneous, this resort gave us a terrific rate for stays this November and December. Spend four nights in Frigate Bay and get an upgraded Oceanview room, too.

Are you a travel enthusiast? Join the club today: https://travelzoo.com

Who are we?
We, Travelzoo®, are the club for travel enthusiasts. We reach 30 million travellers. Club Members receive Club Offers negotiated and rigorously vetted by our deal experts around the globe. Our relationships with thousands of top travel companies give us access to irresistible deals. Our club and its benefits are built around the lifestyle of a modern travel enthusiast.

Media Contact: 
Amanda Ieraci – Toronto
+1 437 866 8540
aieraci@travelzoo.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/club-offers-for-travel-enthusiasts-in-canada-302918543.html

SOURCE Travelzoo

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