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26 01, 2026

HOW DO YOU KEEP DOGS SAFE DURING A WINTER STORM? ANIMAL EXPERT SHARES 5 CRITICAL TIPS

2026-01-26T00:15:03-05:00January 26th, 2026|Tags: , , |

Camp Bow Wow offers timely cold-weather safety tips as severe winter weather sweeps across the U.S.

WESTMINSTER, Colo. — As a major winter storm is forecast to blanket large portions of the United States at the end of this week, Camp Bow Wow, the nation’s leading doggy day care and boarding franchise, is urging pet owners to take precautions to protect their dogs from life-threatening cold-weather hazards.

While most people know not to leave dogs outdoors in the cold, Camp Bow Wow’s animal health and behavioral expert Erin Askeland, CPDT-KA, CBCC-KA, has identified 5 critical safety risks that spike during severe winter weather—and that most pet parents don’t know about.

“Many pet owners don’t realize that the biggest risks to their dogs during winter storms aren’t just the cold temperatures—it’s what’s hidden in the snow and ice,” said Camp Bow Wow’s animal health and behavioral expert Erin Askeland, CPDT-KA, CBCC-KA. “From toxic ice melt salts to disorientation that causes dogs to get lost, these issues can be prevented with the right knowledge.”

5 Critical Cold-Weather Safety Tips Every Dog Owner Must Know

1. Wipe Down Your Dog After Every Outdoor Trip

What to Know: When dogs lick their paws after walking on treated surfaces, they may ingest ice melt that is toxic and can cause severe illness or death.

What to Do: Thoroughly wipe down dogs’ paws, legs and belly when they come back inside after being in snow or going for a walk. Use a damp towel to remove all traces of ice melt chemicals before dogs have a chance to lick their paws.

2. Never Let Your Dog Off the Leash in Snow or Ice

What to Know: Extreme cold can interfere with how scents travel, which may make it harder for dogs to track smells. This makes scent-based navigation more challenging and may increase the risk of disorientation.

What to Do: Keep your dog on a leash at all times during winter weather, even in familiar areas.

3. Provide Fresh Water at All Times

What to Know: Dehydrated dogs are more likely to lick ice and eat snow, which can cause them to ingest toxic ice melt salts or antifreeze.

What to Do: Keep fresh, clean water available and accessible at all times. Check water bowls frequently to ensure they haven’t frozen if kept outdoors.

4. Never Leave Your Dog in the Car—Even with the Heater On

What to Know: Vehicles act like freezers in winter, trapping cold air inside. Dogs can freeze to death quickly, even with the heater running initially.

What to Do: Always bring your dog inside with you or leave them safely at home. There is no safe amount of time to leave a dog in a car during winter weather.

5. Keep Your Dog’s Fur Long During Winter

What to Know: A dog’s fur is their natural protective layer against cold temperatures. Shaving or cutting it too short removes this critical insulation.

What to Do: Never shave your dog’s fur during winter months. For dogs with naturally short hair, use a jacket or sweater to provide extra warmth during outdoor time. For dogs with longer hair, frequent grooming can help keep long coats healthy and easier to maintain during winter months.

What to Do If Severe Weather Prevents Outdoor Exercise
When winter storms make outdoor exercise dangerous or impossible, dogs still need physical and mental stimulation. Camp Bow Wow offers a safe, climate-controlled environment where dogs can exercise, socialize, and burn energy regardless of weather conditions.

Emergency Preparedness for Pet Owners
Before the winter storm arrives, pet owners should:

  • Stock up on pet food, medications and supplies for at least one week
  • Ensure dogs are wearing collars with up-to-date identification tags
  • Microchip pets and update registry information
  • Identify a safe, warm indoor space for pets during the storm
  • Locate the nearest emergency veterinary clinic

About Camp Bow Wow®
Camp Bow Wow® is a leading dog daycare and boarding provider with over 220 locations in 41 states and Canada. For 25 years, Camp Bow Wow has brought joy to dogs and pet parents and helped them lead their best lives by providing the highest levels of fun, safety and service for Campers and peace of mind for their parents. Dogs romp together in an open-play environment and snooze the night away in spacious individual cabins. Additional services include personalized enrichment opportunities, grooming, training and the proprietary Pawsitive Start Jr. Program for puppy enrichment and socialization. Camp Bow Wow also supports the dog-loving community with the Bow Wow Buddies Foundation®, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to providing funds for urgent medical care to rescue groups and pet parents who cannot afford their veterinary bills. Camp Bow Wow is part of the Propelled Brands family of brands, a recognized leader in the franchising industry.

23 01, 2026

STRETCH ZONE OPENS TODAY IN WESTBOROUGH, MA

2026-01-23T03:23:30-05:00January 23rd, 2026|Tags: , , |

New practitioner-assisted stretching studio brings recovery and flexibility support to the
local community

WESTBOROUGH, Mass. — Stretch Zone, the nation’s leading brand for practitioner-assisted stretching, officially opens Stretch Zone Westborough today, bringing a personalized approach to recovery, flexibility, and overall wellness to the community. The studio is owned and operated by Fernando Zengotita, in partnership with Michael Scott, marking Fernando’s second Stretch Zone location.

For Fernando, opening a Stretch Zone in Westborough is especially meaningful. “This is my hometown,” he shared. “Being able to bring a health and wellness business here—one that I truly believe in—means a lot to me.”

Fernando’s interest in Stretch Zone stems from his background in martial arts, where flexibility, recovery, and long-term physical sustainability are essential. As a martial arts instructor and practitioner, he has experienced firsthand how practitioner-assisted stretching supports recovery and improves performance. “Stretching plays a critical role in health sustainability,” he explained. “It’s something I rely on personally, and it aligns perfectly with my entrepreneurial goals.”

Stretch Zone offers fully assisted stretch sessions led by certified practitioners who customize each session to the member’s body, limitations, and goals. Using a guided approach focused on recovery and flexibility, Stretch Zone helps members improve range of motion and move more comfortably—without forcing or strain.

“What sets Stretch Zone apart is the results,” Fernando said. “Our customized stretching provides real value for recovery and flexibility, and members feel the difference.”

Stretch Zone Westborough is managed by Brian Mercier and serves as a convenient wellness destination for residents throughout the Westborough area, complementing Fernando’s existing Stretch Zone location in West Boylston.

Stretch Zone Westborough opens today in Westborough, Massachusetts, and will operate Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and will be closed on Sundays. To celebrate the opening, new members are invited to enjoy a complimentary first stretch consultation and session. For more information, visit www.stretchzone.com.

About Stretch Zone
Founded in 2004 by Jorden Gold, Stretch Zone has redefined how people approach flexibility and recovery. With more than 400 locations across North America, the brand’s patented equipment and certified practitioner training deliver safe, effective stretching experiences that improve mobility and enhance quality of life. Stretch Zone has been recognized on the Inc. 5000 and Franchise Times Top 400 lists for growth and innovation. Learn more at www.stretchzone.com.

23 01, 2026

AtWork Staffing Group Closes Out a Successful 2025

2026-01-23T03:19:38-05:00January 23rd, 2026|Tags: , , , |

Franchise Growth, National Recognition and the Launch of AtWork Professional Fuel Momentum for 2026

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — AtWork®, an award-winning staffing agency franchise, is reporting noteworthy success in 2025, marked by the brand’s franchise expansion and continued national recognition. While the staffing industry faced somewhat challenging market conditions, AtWork has outperformed these broader trends, closing the year with a promising fourth quarter and carrying that momentum into early 2026.

Throughout 2025, AtWork continued to strengthen its national footprint by selling 15 new franchise territories and welcoming 12 new franchise owners. The brand now operates in 30 states nationwide and opened 13 new offices during the year. This expansion reflects ongoing confidence in the AtWork franchise model and its ability to support entrepreneurs in a challenging labor environment.

Operationally, AtWork delivered meaningful impact for both clients and talent. In 2025, the franchise helped put more than 31,000 people to work and partnered with approximately 2,000 clients across the country. The system also added more than 720 new clients, reinforcing AtWork’s reputation as a trusted staffing partner for businesses seeking dependable workforce solutions.

“AtWork’s continued growth in a down staffing market speaks volumes about the strength of our franchise system and the dedication of our owners,” said Jason Leverant, president and chief operating officer of AtWork. “We remain focused on serving clients and candidates with consistency and care, and that commitment is what continues to drive successful results.”

In addition to its growth, AtWork earned 10 national industry awards in 2025 for excellence in franchise satisfaction, operations, and service quality. Highlights include recognition on Forbes’ list of America’s Best Recruiting and Temporary Staffing Firms, ClearlyRated’s Best of Staffing Client and Talent Awards, Franchise Business Review’s Top 200 Franchises, the Franchise Times Top 400, and FranServe’s Fran-tastic Brand list.

Individual franchisee success further highlighted the strength of the system, with Josephine Suryono, owner of AtWork Sacramento and Roseville, named the International Franchise Association’s Franchisee of the Year and a Franchise Rockstar by Franchise Business Review.

As the company enters 2026 on strong footing, including being recognized as one of Franchise Business Review’s Top 200 Franchises, AtWork continues to demonstrate leadership within the staffing industry with the introduction of its newest offering, AtWork Professional. This franchise category reflects the evolving dynamics of the modern workforce and the growing demand for specialized professional talent. Designed as a low-cost, flexible franchise opportunity, AtWork Professional eliminates the need for a brick-and-mortar location and can be operated independently without additional staff, making it an accessible model for experienced professionals and entrepreneurs alike.

To inquire about franchise opportunities, visit: https://www.atwork.com/franchise/

About AtWork

Headquartered in Knoxville, Tennessee, AtWork is an award-winning staffing franchise with more than 30 years of experience helping businesses find dependable talent and helping people find meaningful work. AtWork provides comprehensive workforce solutions, including temporary staffing, temp-to-hire, and direct hire services, supporting companies across a wide range of industries nationwide. AtWork delivers its staffing solutions through two distinct channels: their legacy brand, AtWork Personnel, focusing on commercial staffing (manufacturing, logistics, and administrative/clerical), and AtWork Professionals, the brand’s newest division, placing skilled professionals in areas such as Engineering, IT, Finance and Accounting, Scientific, Legal and other key sectors. AtWork is recognized by Staffing Industry Analysts as one of the Largest and Best Staffing Firms to Work for in the U.S. and as an Entrepreneur Verified Franchise. The brand’s commitment to service excellence has earned ClearlyRated’s Best of Staffing® Award for both client and talent satisfaction. AtWork’s strong growth and franchisee support have secured its place on Franchise Business Review’s Top 200 Franchises for eight consecutive years, along with induction into the FBR Hall of Fame for more than 10 years of outstanding performance. Additional recognition includes rankings in Franchise Times Top 400, and Entrepreneur’s Top Franchises for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.

For more information about AtWork, visit https://www.atwork.com/franchise/. To learn about AtWork Professional, visit: https://www.atwork.com/franchise/professional/.

19 01, 2026

PuroClean Disaster Services Deploys Agentech to Enhance Claims Compliance and Accelerate Revenue Recovery

2026-01-19T05:24:57-05:00January 19th, 2026|Tags: , , , , , |

CHICAGO — PuroClean Disaster Services, the largest owner and operator of PuroClean franchises within the PuroClean Network, today announced the deployment of Agentech’s agentic AI platform to modernize claims operations, strengthen compliance with carrier guidelines, and drive incremental revenue recovery across its restoration business.

As claims volume and regulatory complexity continue to increase, restoration providers face growing pressure to deliver accurate, defensible estimates and documentation while maintaining operational efficiency. PuroClean implemented Agentech’s digital workforce to standardize estimating and invoicing practices, improve documentation quality, and support more consistent alignment with carrier and TPA requirements.

Agentech’s AI workflows continuously analyze estimates and job documentation to identify under-documented or omitted billable items, validate equipment usage against industry standards, and enforce carrier-specific formatting and compliance rules prior to submission. By embedding restoration industry standards and Xactimate/Cotality rule logic directly into the review process, the platform reduces rework, supplement delays, and payment friction.

Operating across seven distinct carrier guideline frameworks, PuroClean has leveraged the platform to standardize equipment setup, monitoring, and takedown calculations across locations, improve estimating discipline, and surface revenue opportunities earlier in the claims lifecycle.

“This platform provides immediate insight into documentation gaps and missed revenue opportunities, while reinforcing best practices and carrier alignment,” said Keegan Trudgen, PuroClean franchise owner. “It allows our teams to improve financial performance without compromising compliance or partner relationships.”

Since implementation, PuroClean reports identifying an average of $225 per file in previously unrealized revenue. In parallel, carrier partners benefit from more accurate submissions, standardized documentation, faster claim resolution, and fewer disputes.

“Restoration providers are being asked to do more with less while meeting increasingly stringent documentation standards,” said Robin Roberson, President and Co-founder of Agentech. “Our digital AI coworkers enable teams to apply carrier-specific logic and industry best practices at scale, improving both financial outcomes and claims quality, all in real-time.”

PuroClean plans to expand its use of Agentech’s platform to further standardize operations and strengthen collaboration with insurers and TPAs, underscoring a broader shift toward intelligent automation as a foundation for accuracy, compliance, and scalable growth in the claims ecosystem.

Agentech and PuroClean Disaster Services will be attending the INTRConnect 2026 Conference and welcome the opportunity to connect with insurance carriers, TPAs, independent adjusting firms, and restoration professionals interested in the practical application of AI within claims and restoration operations.

About PuroClean
PuroClean is a leading, world-class service brand for property water damage remediation, fire and smoke damage mitigation, mold removal, and biohazard clean-up services, working with both residential and commercial customers across the U.S. and Canada. Founded in 2001, PuroClean is a diverse, fast-growing network of over 500 North American franchise locations across the United States and Canada, each independently owned and operated. With a commitment to respond within two hours, the professionals at PuroClean are thoroughly screened, insured, and trained in utilizing the latest cutting-edge mitigation technology to complete the remediation task at hand.

About Go Mini’s
Founded in 2002, Go Mini’s® has become one of the fastest-growing portable storage and moving companies in North America with locations in 41 states in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. In 2012, the brand converted into a franchise model and now has 114 sold franchises within the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Go Mini’s is proud to have been recognized by Franchise Business Review as a Top Franchise in 2017, as well as being ranked 16th by Entrepreneur Magazine in their list of 2017’s Top New Franchises. Go Mini’s Franchising LLC. was recently named a Top Franchise for 2023 by Franchise Business Review. Got a Project? Get a Mini. For more information, please go to https://www.gominis.com/.

19 01, 2026

The Designery announces new Denver showroom with grand opening celebration

2026-01-19T05:20:27-05:00January 19th, 2026|Tags: , , , , |

Local owner Rob Glynn provides refreshments, entertainment and tours of the showroom to introduce residents to comprehensive kitchen, bath and closet designs

DENVER — The Designery, an immersive, full-service kitchen, bath and closet design center featuring high-quality cabinets, countertops and flooring, will celebrate the grand opening of its new Denver location on Thursday, Jan. 15 from 4-6 p.m. at the new showroom located at 3875 Steele Street, Suite 1145.

The Designery Denver is locally owned and operated by Rob Glynn, who brings experience and a customer-focused approach to the Denver market. Guests attending the grand opening celebration will enjoy an open bar, a food truck, live circus performers, exclusive giveaways and tours of the showroom.

“Our goal with The Designery Denver is to create a space where clients feel inspired and supported from the very beginning of their projects,” Glynn said. “By offering premium products alongside expert guidance in one location, we can help clients move forward with clarity and confidence as they bring their vision to life. Opening our doors in Denver allows us to establish lasting connections with homeowners and industry partners throughout the community.”

Casey Ridley, founder and president of The Designery, said the Denver location reflects the brand’s continued growth and commitment to delivering a high-touch design experience.

“Rob brings a strong entrepreneurial drive and a deep understanding of both project management and real estate that make him an excellent fit for The Designery,” Ridley said. “His experience managing complex projects, investing in and remodeling homes, and prioritizing customer service ensures that clients in Denver will receive a thoughtful, well-guided design experience from start to finish.”

The Designery Denver provides a comprehensive design experience by offering cabinetry, countertops, flooring and accessories all in one location, along with professional design support and project coordination. The location serves residents in Arvada, Aurora, Castle Rock, Columbine, Conifer, Denver, Englewood, Federal Heights, Golden, Greenwood Village, Highlands Ranch, Lakewood, Littleton, Parker, Sherrelwood, Southglenn, Thornton, Welby, Westminster and Wheat Ridge.

For more information about The Designery Denver, visit https://thedesignery.com/locations/denver/ or call them at (303) 536-6214.

About The Designery

The Designery was founded in 2007 as A1 Kitchen and Bath, a product wholesale outlet serving the Chattanooga, Tennessee market. In 2019, it rebranded as The Designery and established a franchise model to expand its unique concept: to simplify the kitchen, bath and closet design process by offering premium products, design expertise, project management and trusted professional installation. Its selection of high-quality cabinets, flooring, countertops and accessories makes it a destination for any remodeling, renovation or new construction project. It is a one-stop shop for homeowners and a trusted partner for contractors, with knowledgeable staff to walk clients through every step, from design to project management and installation. The Designery’s immersive showroom and personalized guidance bring luxurious designs to life without the luxury price tag. To learn more about The Designery, please visit https://thedesignery.com/.

About HomeFront Brands:

HomeFront Brands empowers entrepreneurs to create thriving franchised residential and commercial property service brands. Driven by an experienced team of franchise executives and rooted in family values, HomeFront Brands helps emerging or established concepts accelerate their growth by delivering enterprise-level solutions to local business owners who aspire to build a dynasty and create generational wealth. By leveraging integrated technology, data-driven intelligence and advanced learning management systems, HomeFront Brands is building a foundation for its brands — Window Hero, The Designery, Temporary Wall Systems, Top Rail Fence, and Roof Scientist – to transform lives through franchise ownership.

For more information about HomeFront Brands’ current solutions, new business development, and franchising opportunities, please visit https://homefrontbrands.com/.

19 01, 2026

PuroClean Partners with Go Mini’s to Provide Fast, Reliable Storage Solutions for Restoration Projects Nationwide

2026-01-19T05:09:55-05:00January 19th, 2026|Tags: , , , , , |

National Partnership Enhances Efficiency and Customer Experience During Disaster Recovery

TAMARAC, Fla. — PuroClean, one of the country’s leading property restoration and remediation franchises, is proud to announce a National Strategic Partnership with Go Mini’s, the national portable storage franchise known for helping families through life’s transitions. This collaboration enables Go Mini’s to deliver secure, on-site storage directly to PuroClean’s network of 500+ franchises across the United States, supporting property owners during some of life’s most challenging moments.

Through a collaborative partnership, PuroClean Franchise Owners seamlessly deploy Go Mini’s portable storage containers, which are delivered promptly to help protect customers’ belongings throughout the restoration process. Whether responding to water damage, fire, mold, or biohazard cleanup, this partnership ensures restoration teams can work efficiently, provides peace of mind to home and business owners, and reinforces PuroClean Franchise Owners as trusted, full-service partners during critical property restoration situations.

A critical component of many restoration projects is the pack-out and contents cleaning process, where belongings must be carefully removed, inventoried, protected, and restored while mitigation and restoration are underway. Go Mini’s portable containers act as secure, on-site extensions of the job site, allowing PuroClean teams to streamline pack-outs, reduce handling and transportation delays, and begin contents cleaning faster, helping return customers’ personal items more efficiently and with greater care.

Key Consumer Benefits:

  • 15% National Discount: Every PuroClean franchise can offer customers a standardized 15% savings on container rentals and transportation costs.
  • Fast, Priority Response: Go Mini’s responds quickly to urgent requests, providing secure storage when homeowners need it most.
  • On-Site Safety & Convenience: Clean, weatherproof, ground-level storage is delivered directly to the property, minimizing disruption during the restoration process.
  • Streamlined Experience: A consistent process and discount structure across all PuroClean franchises ensures reliable service nationwide.

“During disaster recovery, every minute counts, and protecting homeowners’ belongings is a top priority,” said Steve White, PuroClean President. “Partnering with Go Mini’s allows our franchises to deliver fast, reliable storage solutions that enhance the restoration experience and give families peace of mind.”

Go Mini’s complements PuroClean’s restoration services with its extensive container selection, including industry-exclusive 20-foot units and compact solutions for smaller spaces. Its proprietary delivery system allows placement in tight areas where others cannot, while local Go Mini’s teams provide dedicated service to ensure on-time, on-budget projects that support efficient job completion and positive customer outcomes.

“Restoration projects move quickly, and protecting contents from further damage is essential,” said Chris Walls, CEO of Go Mini’s. “This partnership equips PuroClean teams with flexible, on-site storage solutions that support efficient pack-outs and contents cleaning, helping families recover faster while restoration work is completed.”

Through this national partnership, PuroClean and Go Mini’s are redefining the restoration experience by combining fast response, safe storage, and consistent service for homeowners across the country.

For more information on PuroClean, please visit https://www.puroclean.com/.
For more information on Go Mini’s, please visit https://www.gominis.com/.

About PuroClean
PuroClean is a leading, world-class service brand for property water damage remediation, fire and smoke damage mitigation, mold removal, and biohazard clean-up services, working with both residential and commercial customers across the U.S. and Canada. Founded in 2001, PuroClean is a diverse, fast-growing network of over 500 North American franchise locations across the United States and Canada, each independently owned and operated. With a commitment to respond within two hours, the professionals at PuroClean are thoroughly screened, insured, and trained in utilizing the latest cutting-edge mitigation technology to complete the remediation task at hand.

About Go Mini’s
Founded in 2002, Go Mini’s® has become one of the fastest-growing portable storage and moving companies in North America with locations in 41 states in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. In 2012, the brand converted into a franchise model and now has 114 sold franchises within the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Go Mini’s is proud to have been recognized by Franchise Business Review as a Top Franchise in 2017, as well as being ranked 16th by Entrepreneur Magazine in their list of 2017’s Top New Franchises. Go Mini’s Franchising LLC. was recently named a Top Franchise for 2023 by Franchise Business Review. Got a Project? Get a Mini. For more information, please go to https://www.gominis.com/.

17 01, 2026

Celebree School Expands Midwest Footprint, Bringing First Schools to Wisconsin

2026-01-17T03:26:34-05:00January 17th, 2026|Tags: , , , , |

  • Bringing Innovative Early Education to the Milwaukee Area, Celebree School is Set to Open Its Doors in October 2027
  • Nurturing Children Six Weeks to Five Years Old, the School Offers a Creative, Play-Based Learning Approach
  • With a Commitment to “Grow People Big and Small,” Celebree School Supports Families and Meets the Growing Demand for Quality Childcare

MILWAUKEE — Celebree School, a leader in early childhood education offering infant and toddler care, preschool, before and aftercare, and summer camp programs, marks its debut in Wisconsin, with the first location in a multi-unit signed agreement set to open in fall of 2027. The new schools will offer a nurturing, curriculum-based environment that supports the physical, social, emotional, and academic needs of children while adhering to Wisconsin’s early education standards.

About the Owners

Owned and operated by Arpita and Snehasish Maity, the new schools aim to nurture, educate, and empower children while supporting families. Arpita brings a strong background in technology, operations, community engagement, and early learning, along with a bachelor’s degree in art. Snehasish serves as the Chief Information Officer at Fincantieri Marine Group, where he leads major digital transformation and innovation initiatives. Together, the Maity family is committed to bringing high-quality early education to their communities.

“We’re thrilled to bring the Celebree School experience to the Milwaukee area with a local school that inspires curiosity, builds confidence, and provides lasting value for families,” said Arpita. “We believe that meaningful change starts with a strong foundation in education, and our vision is to build a place where children can truly thrive, and families feel fully supported. For us, this is much more than opening a business, as it’s an opportunity to help shape the next generation.”

The Maitys plan to open multiple Celebree School locations across Wisconsin in the coming years, supporting the brand’s long-term growth in the region.

The Celebree School Approach

Celebree School was founded on the promise to Grow People Big and Small™, believing that success in early childhood development stems from both exceptional curriculum and meaningful connection that extends beyond the classroom. Each Celebree School builds a village of parents, children, and educators dedicated to supporting the whole child and the whole family, while providing curriculum-based care that prepares children for kindergarten and beyond.

At the heart of Celebree’s approach is The Creative Curriculum® by Teaching Strategies, a nationally recognized, research-based program trusted by educators for decades. This curriculum encourages exploration, creativity, and critical thinking through hands-on learning experiences, ensuring children build a strong foundation for future academic and personal success.

Wisconsin’s Demand for Early Childhood Education

While Wisconsin was ranked seventh in education, many students are still working to regain pre-pandemic academic achievement levels. Gaps in early childhood learning, specifically foundational and social-emotional development, have contributed to these challenges and can have lasting effects as students progress in their education. With a shortage of available childcare and early learning options across the state, Celebree School is stepping in to provide accessible, high-quality programs that build strong foundations and help children thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

“It’s incredibly rewarding to see our mission take root in Wisconsin,” said Richard Huffman, Founder and CEO of Celebree School. “Knowing that children will have the support and foundation they need to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally makes this work deeply meaningful. I’m confident the Maity family will carry our vision forward and create a nurturing place where families feel truly supported.”

With a 30-plus-year history of providing superior early childhood education, Celebree School delivers a stable, secure learning environment that helps children develop a lifelong love of learning. Programs are available for children six weeks to 5 years old with unique curriculum designed to develop positive social skills and values while allowing children to learn about their world through age-appropriate play, projects, and activities. Care is available part time or full time and parents are welcome to drop in and visit at any time.

For more information regarding Celebree School, please visit https://www.celebree.com/.

About Celebree School

Founded in 1994, Celebree School is a leader in early childhood education that provides infant and toddler care, preschool, before and aftercare, and summer camp programs. With a mission to Grow People Big and Small™, Celebree School believes success in early childhood development is equal parts curriculum and connection. Each school employs a customized program that addresses the physical, social, emotional, and academic needs of children and follows applicable state guidelines. In 2019, Celebree School launched its franchise offering. In 2024, Celebree School’s founder, Richard Huffman, launched a new parent company called Huffman Family Brands, merging Celebree affiliated concepts under one multi-brand company structure. Learn more about how we grow confident children who are prepared for school and life at Celebree.com. Connect with us on FacebookInstagram, and LinkedIn.

17 01, 2026

Sport Clips Haircuts Celebrates $1.22M Raised for Veterans’ Scholarships & Thousands of Free Haircuts Given During its 2025 Help A Hero Campaign

2026-01-17T03:19:29-05:00January 17th, 2026|Tags: , , , , |

Donations to the VFW Foundation Now Exceed $16M Supporting Veterans’ Education Toward Civilian Careers

SAN DIEGO — Sport Clips Haircuts today announced its 2025 Help A Hero Scholarship Campaign raised $1.22 million in support of military service members and veterans pursuing higher education. In addition, Sport Clips locations across the U.S. provided thousands of free haircuts to active-duty service members and veterans on Veterans Day, a gesture of gratitude for those who serve.

To mark the announcement, a check presentation was held today at VFW Post 1774 in La Mesa, where members of the local Sport Clips team provided haircuts for current military members and veterans in the greater-San Diego area. At the event, it was announced that since the scholarship program’s founding in 2013, Sport Clips, along with its clients, team members and product partners, has contributed more than $16 million to the program administered by the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), making it the nation’s largest scholarship effort of its kind. The funds provide vital education and career training opportunities for service members transitioning from military to civilian life.

“We are incredibly grateful to our clients, product partners, franchisees, and dedicated stylists whose generosity and commitment made this year’s campaign another success,” said Gordon Logan, founder and chairman of Sport Clips and a U.S. Air Force veteran. “Their support is making a real impact through funds raised for scholarships and thousands of free haircuts that help honor the men and women who serve our country.”

“This incredible donation raised by Sport Clips is a life-changing investment in the future of our transitioning service members,” said Carol Whitmore, VFW national commander. “For many veterans, the path to a successful civilian career is blocked by education benefits that run dry before the finish line. This program ensures that the financial hurdle of a degree doesn’t stand in the way of their dreams. Together, we are doing more than just paying for classes; we are honoring the service of these men and women by empowering them to lead in the workforce. On behalf of the VFW, I want to thank Sport Clips’ team, partners and their dedicated clients for their unwavering support and for proving, once again, that they truly understand what it means to support those who serve.”

Transitioning from military service into civilian employment can be challenging. Every year approximately 200,000 service members make this transition and often seek additional education or training to secure meaningful post-military careers. Yet many find that existing benefits, such as the GI Bill, don’t fully cover the financial needs associated with higher education or career training, driving the demand for supplemental scholarship support like that provided by Sport Clips’ Help A Hero campaign.

To date, Help A Hero has provided 3,546 total scholarships. The total includes 163 recipients for the upcoming spring 2026 semester. See the full list of spring 2026 recipients here. To apply for a fall 2026 scholarship before the April 30 deadline or to find out more, visit SportClips.com/HERO.

About Sport Clips Haircuts
Sport Clips Haircuts is headquartered in Georgetown, Texas. It was established in 1993 and began franchising in 1995. The sports-themed haircutting franchise, which specializes in haircuts for men and boys, offers online check in for clients, and ranks #52 in the Entrepreneur “Franchise 500” for 2025 and was named a 2025 Top Franchise by Franchise Business Review. There are nearly 1,800 Sport Clips stores open in the U.S. and Canada. Sport Clips is the “Official Haircutter” of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), offers veterans preferential pricing on haircuts and franchises, and ranks #13 in the 2025 Top Franchise for Veterans list by Entrepreneur. Sport Clips provides “Haircuts with Heart” through its annual Help A Hero fundraiser that has contributed more than $16 million to the VFW; national partnership with St. Baldrick’s Foundation, the largest private funder of childhood cancer research grants; and other national and local philanthropic outreach. Sport Clips is a proud sponsor of NASCAR’s Joe Gibbs Racing team, Minor League Baseball (MiLB), and partners with select NCAA teams. To learn more about Sport Clips, visit sportclips.com.

About the VFW
The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S. is the nation’s largest and most established major war veterans organization. Founded in 1899, the congressionally chartered VFW is comprised entirely of eligible veterans and military service members from the active, Guard and Reserve forces. With more than 1.3 million VFW and Auxiliary members located in nearly 6,000 Posts worldwide, the nonprofit veterans service organization is proud to proclaim “NO ONE DOES MORE FOR VETERANS” than the VFW, which is dedicated to veterans’ service, legislative advocacy, and military and community service programs. For more information or to join, visit our website at vfw.org.

17 01, 2026

Pillar To Post Home Inspectors Recognized in Entrepreneur Magazine’s 2026 Franchise 500® Ranking

2026-01-17T03:13:30-05:00January 17th, 2026|Tags: , , |

Industry-Leading Home Inspection Franchise Earns Continued Validation for System Strength, Longevity, and Franchise Support

TAMPA, Fla. — Pillar To Post Home Inspectors (Pillar To Post), North America’s largest home inspection company, has been recognized on the 47th annual Entrepreneur Magazine Franchise 500® list, marking the brand’s 29th consecutive year upon the prestigious franchise ranking. The recognition marks another year of validation for the brand, which was inducted into the Franchise 500® Hall of Fame in 2024.

For nearly 30 years, Pillar To Post has remained a leader in home inspection franchising by prioritizing system durability, franchise owner support, and long-term scalability. The brand’s continued placement on the Franchise 500® reflects its ability to adapt to evolving market conditions while maintaining consistent performance.

“At a time when the franchise landscape continues to evolve, consistent recognition like this speaks to the strength of our model and the people behind it,” said Charles Furlough, CEO of Pillar To Post Home Inspectors. “Our focus has never been about chasing rankings. It’s about building systems that support strong operators, sustainable growth, and long-term success, and that discipline continues to serve our franchise owners well.”

A key differentiator behind Pillar To Post’s sustained performance is its Executive Model, which enables franchise business owners to build scalable inspection businesses without performing inspections themselves. By emphasizing leadership, team development, and operational leverage, the model continues to attract professionals from corporate leadership, military service, real estate, construction, and other industries seeking ownership.

In addition to its Franchise 500® recognition, Pillar To Post was also named to Entrepreneur Magazine’s 2025 Top Franchises for Veterans list, underscoring the brand’s longstanding commitment to supporting military entrepreneurs. Veterans make up a meaningful portion of the Pillar To Post system, drawn to the brand’s structured support, leadership-oriented model, and proven pathway to ownership.

Each year, Entrepreneur evaluates franchises using an extensive methodology that analyzes more than 150 data points across areas such as costs and fees, size and growth, franchise support, brand strength, and financial stability. The Franchise 500® has become one of the most comprehensive and competitive benchmarks in franchising, serving as a key research tool for prospective franchise owners.

“Our continued inclusion on the Franchise 500 reflects the depth of our support infrastructure and the consistency of our franchise network,” added Furlough. “As we look ahead, we remain focused on attracting the right owners, strengthening our systems, and helping franchise business owners build durable businesses in their local markets.”

To view Pillar To Post in the full Franchise 500® ranking, visit www.entrepreneur.com/franchise500 or see the January/February 2026 issue of Entrepreneur, available on newsstands now.

To learn more about franchise opportunities with Pillar To Post Home Inspectors, visit www.franchise.pillartopost.com.

About Pillar To Post Home Inspectors® 
Founded in 1994, Pillar To Post Home Inspectors is the largest home inspection company in North America with home offices in Toronto and Tampa. There are 400+ franchises located across the United States and Canada. The company has been named as Best in Category in Entrepreneur Magazine‘s Franchise500® ranking for 20 years in a row. For further information, please visit www.pillartopost.com.

15 01, 2026

ALL 19 NEIGHBORLY® BRANDS EARN SPOTS ON ENTREPRENEUR’S 2026 FRANCHISE 500® FOR SECOND CONSECUTIVE YEAR

2026-01-15T15:12:47-05:00January 15th, 2026|Tags: , , , , , |

Seven Neighborly brands rank No. 1 in their respective categories

WACO, Texas — Neighborly®, a family of global brands dedicated to delivering remarkable experiences for both consumers and franchise owners, today announced that all 19 of its North American franchise brands have once again been recognized on Entrepreneur‘s 2026 Franchise 500® ranking. This marks the second consecutive year every eligible Neighborly franchise brand has been recognized on the industry’s most comprehensive and competitive franchise list.

The achievement reflects Neighborly’s continued momentum and the strength of its diversified portfolio, spanning repair, maintenance, restoration and home improvement services. Notably, seven Neighborly brands – Aire Serv®, Dryer Vent Wizard®, Glass Doctor®, Mr. Electric®, Mr. Rooter® Plumbing, Precision Garage Door Service® and Real Property Management – earned the No. 1 ranking in their respective franchise categories.

“This recognition highlights the incredible dedication of our franchise owners and the remarkable experiences they create for their customers every day,” said Mike Davis, chief executive officer of Neighborly. “With all 19 of our brands performing strongly in the home services market, we’re more confident than ever in the power of our platform, from the systems we’ve built to the way we support owners in growing trusted, local businesses. The future is bright, and we’re excited to continue connecting customers with the right services at the right time, driving innovation and growth across the industry.”

Widely regarded as the gold standard in franchise rankings, Entrepreneur’s Franchise 500® list evaluates franchise brands across more than 150 data points, including unit growth, financial strength and stability, brand power, costs and fees, and ongoing support. Only the top 500 franchises earn placement each year.

The following 19 Neighborly brands earned spots on the 2026 Franchise 500®:

Neighborly’s continued presence across the rankings highlights the company’s long-term strategy of building category-leading brands while empowering franchise owners to deliver reliable, high-quality service to homeowners across North America.

“Today’s franchise owners are looking for brands that can perform across economic cycles and grow with them over time,” said Brad Stevenson, chief development officer of Neighborly. “This recognition reinforces the advantage of Neighborly’s diversified home services portfolio and our ability to support franchise owners at every stage, from onboarding and launch to scaling through technology, marketing and operational excellence.”

To view all 19 Neighborly brands in the full ranking, visit www.entrepreneur.com/franchise500.

To learn more about Neighborly, visit www.neighborlybrands.com/.

About Neighborly®
Neighborly® is a family of global brands focused on being remarkable with consumers and franchise owners. What began as one brand in Waco, Texas, in 1981 has grown to more than 30 brands and 5,500 franchise locations across North America and Europe serving millions of customers. Neighborly offers a proven path to business ownership accompanied by established systems, award-winning brands, training, and continued support throughout the franchising journey.

Correction: The ranking of Dryer Vent Wizard® has been updated.

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