Albuquerque, New Mexico Feb 16, 2026 (Issuewire.com) - Budget-Navigators (x-budget), we believe that every family deserves access to tools that can help them achieve financial security and peace of mind. Our mission is to provide free, accessible, and easy-to-use budgeting resources that empower families to take control of their finances. SNAP benefits are distributed monthly through Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards, which work like debit cards at grocery stores, farmers markets, and other authorized food retailers. The program serves as a crucial safety net for families facing food insecurity, helping them maintain adequate nutrition while freeing up limited income for other essential expenses like housing, utilities, and healthcare. For eligible families, SNAP can be a vital component of their overall budget strategy. Understanding SNAP Eligibility SNAP eligibility is based on several factors including household income, assets, and expenses. Generally, households must meet both gross and net income limits, though some households with elderly or disabled members may only need to meet the net income test. Gross income limits are typically 130% of the federal poverty level, while net income limits are 100% of the poverty level after allowable deductions. Household size directly affects income limitslarger households can have higher incomes and still qualify. The program also considers certain expenses like housing costs, child care expenses, and medical costs for elderly or disabled members when calculating eligibility. Many states have simplified eligibility rules that make it easier for certain groups to qualify. How to Apply for SNAP Benefits You can apply for SNAP benefits through your state's social services agency, either online, by mail, or in person. The application process typically requires providing information about your household composition, income, expenses, and assets. You'll need documentation such as pay stubs, rent receipts, utility bills, and identification for all household members. Most states require an interview as part of the application process, which can often be conducted by phone. The interview helps verify your information and answer any questions about the program. After approval, benefits are typically available within 30 days, though expedited benefits may be available within 7 days for households with very low income and resources. Calculating SNAP Benefit Amounts SNAP benefit amounts are calculated based on your household's net income after allowable deductions. The maximum benefit amount varies by household size and is adjusted annually for inflation. For 2024, the maximum monthly benefit for a household of four is approximately $939. Most households receive less than the maximum based on their income and expenses. The benefit calculation considers your net monthly income, which is your gross income minus allowable deductions for housing costs, dependent care, medical expenses, and standard deductions. Understanding how these deductions work can help you maximize your benefit amount. Some states also offer additional deductions or simplified rules that can increase benefits. Maximizing Your SNAP BenefitsReport Changes Promptly If your income decreases or expenses increase, report these changes to your caseworker immediately. This can result in increased benefits. Common changes that should be reported include job loss, reduced work hours, increased rent or utility costs, or new medical expenses. Keeping your caseworker informed ensures you receive the maximum benefits you're entitled to. Take Advantage of Deductions Make sure you're claiming all allowable deductions, including housing costs, child care expenses, and medical expenses for elderly or disabled household members. Some expenses you might not think to report, like certain utility costs or medical transportation, may be deductible. Work with your caseworker to ensure all eligible expenses are included in your calculation. Use Benefits Strategically Plan your grocery shopping to maximize the value of your SNAP benefits. Look for sales, use coupons, buy in bulk when possible, and focus on nutritious, filling foods. Many farmers markets now accept SNAP benefits and may offer matching programs that double your purchasing power for fresh fruits and vegetables. Special Programs and Additional BenefitsDouble Up Food Bucks Many states and communities offer Double Up Food Bucks programs that match SNAP benefits used at farmers markets, effectively doubling your purchasing power for fresh produce. This program helps families afford healthy foods while supporting local farmers. Check with your local farmers market or state SNAP office to see if this program is available in your area. Free School Meals Children in households receiving SNAP benefits are automatically eligible for free school meals through the National School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs. This can significantly reduce your family's food costs during the school year. Contact your child's school to ensure they're enrolled in the free meal program. WIC Program Pregnant women, new mothers, and young children may also qualify for the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), which provides additional nutrition assistance. WIC benefits can be used alongside SNAP benefits to further stretch your food budget. WIC provides specific nutritious foods, nutrition education, and breastfeeding support. Using SNAP Benefits Effectively SNAP benefits can be used to purchase most food items including fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy products, bread, cereals, and seeds or plants that produce food. However, benefits cannot be used to purchase alcohol, tobacco, vitamins, medicines, hot prepared foods, or non-food items. Understanding what you can and cannot purchase helps you plan your shopping effectively. Many grocery stores now offer online ordering and delivery services that accept SNAP benefits, making it easier to shop and compare prices. Some stores also offer special discounts or programs for SNAP recipients. Take advantage of these services to maximize convenience and savings. Recertification and Maintaining Benefits SNAP benefits are not permanentyou must recertify periodically, typically every 6 to 12 months depending on your state and circumstances. The recertification process involves updating your income, expenses, and household information. Failure to complete recertification on time can result in loss of benefits, so mark important dates on your calendar and submit required documentation promptly. Some states offer simplified reporting for certain households, allowing you to report changes less frequently. Ask your caseworker if you qualify for simplified reporting, which can make it easier to maintain your benefits. Conclusion SNAP benefits can be a crucial resource for families struggling to afford adequate nutrition. Understanding eligibility requirements, the application process, and how to maximize benefits can help families make the most of this important program. If you think you might qualify, don't hesitate to applymany eligible families don't realize they qualify or find the application process easier than expected. Remember that SNAP is designed to supplement your food budget, not replace all food spending. Combined with smart shopping strategies and other assistance programs, SNAP can help ensure your family has access to nutritious food while managing your overall household budget effectively.Media [email protected]+1 (844) 973-51481209 MOUNTAIN ROAD PL NE STE Rhttps://x-budget.com Source :Budget-Navigators LLCThis article was originally published by IssueWire. Read the original article here.
Milwaukee, Wisconsin Feb 17, 2026 (Issuewire.com) - Jennifer Sluga, MS, NCC, LPC, SAC, is a distinguished psychotherapist, clinical consultant, and the Founder and Owner of Trauma Life Consulting, a trauma-informed mental health collective based in Waunakee, Wisconsin. Serving individuals and families across the state through in-person and telehealth services, Jennifer is recognized for her comprehensive, evidence-based approach to trauma care that prioritizes safety, attunement, and individualized treatment. My approach is comprehensive. I aim to understand the complexity and experience as I support each client in a process that leads to lasting and meaningful change. This means helping my clients know themselves more fully, allowing them to move forward in their lives with a greater sense of understanding, identity, and hope, says Jennifer. Jennifer earned her Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling from the University of WisconsinWhitewater and has built a career marked by advanced trauma specialization, clinical leadership, and dedicated service to high-risk and underserved populations. She is a National Certified Counselor (NCC), Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Substance Abuse Counselor (SAC), EMDR provider, and EMDRIA-approved Consultant, with extensive training in EMDR, somatic and parts-based modalities, and evidence-based trauma treatments. With more than a decade of experience serving veterans and their families, Jennifer previously worked as a psychotherapist at the Madison Veterans Center, where she provided trauma-informed care addressing Post-Traumatic Stress, Military Sexual Trauma (MST), combat-related trauma, and complex life transitions associated with military service. She also contributed her expertise at MeriterUnityPoint Health and Journey Mental Health, delivering substance use treatment, facilitating group therapy, and providing psychoeducational and crisis-responsive services across diverse clinical settings. Jennifers work integrates clinical excellence with relational depth, helping clients address the emotional, psychological, and somatic impacts of trauma while fostering resilience and personal growth. She emphasizes individualized treatment planning, nervous-system regulation, and restoring a sense of agency and connection. What I enjoy most about practicing therapy is the opportunity to help people in meaningful, lasting ways, Jennifer notes. Every patient interaction allows me to provide support, guidance, and care during some of their most vulnerable moments, which is deeply rewarding and reinforces my commitment to compassionate, patient-centered care. Jennifer expanded her mission by investing in a commercial building to launch a growing collective of trauma-informed providers. Reach out to connect with the right provider or explore partnership or training opportunities. Beyond direct clinical practice, Jennifer is a consultant, trainer, and mentor for other mental health professionals and remains deeply engaged in community advocacy, expanding access to trauma-informed services, particularly for veterans and survivors of sexual violence. She has held leadership roles including executive board member for the National Association of County Veteran Service Officers and EMDRIA Consultant. Her work has earned recognition such as Wisconsin Women Veteran of the Year (2014) and the Early Career Award from University of WisconsinMadison Psychology Department (2019). Jennifer Slugas career reflects a steadfast dedication to excellence, integrity, and compassionate care, establishing her as a trusted leader, advocate, and contributor to behavioral health and trauma-informed medicine in Wisconsin and beyond. Learn more about Jennifer Sluga: Through her Americas Best in Medicine profile, https://americasbestinmedicine.com/connect/jennifer-sluga or through her website, https://jenniferslugacounselingwithtlc.com/ Americas Best in Medicine Americas Best in Medicine is a specialist online platform dedicated to amplifying the voices of leading healthcare professionals across the United States. They bring together top healthcare providers from all specialties and cities to share expert-driven articles, research, commentary, and clinical insight. Their core purposes are to showcase excellence in healthcare, build trust between providers and the public, and ensure that expert voices are elevated and heard in shaping medicine. Through their platform, users can access a community of leaders, opportunities for providers to share expertise, and trusted guidance for patients and peers alike.Media ContactAmerica's Best in Medicine*****@americasbestinmedicine.com1-877-346-0175https://americasbestinmedicine.com Source :Jennifer SlugaThis article was originally published by IssueWire. Read the original article here.
Stow, Ohio Feb 17, 2026 (Issuewire.com) - Alexander Male, MSW, LISW-S, is a licensed independent social worker with supervision designation and a trauma-focused therapist committed to helping individuals and couples navigate lifes most challenging experiences. As the Co-Founder of Pathways of Peace Counseling & Consultation, LLC in Stow, Ohio, Alexander provides comprehensive, evidence-based psychotherapy and holistic healing services, including EMDR, CBT, DBT, and Reiki. His work focuses on supporting clients facing trauma, substance use, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, and relationship difficulties, delivering inclusive care that honors the mind, body, and spirit. Alexander earned both his Bachelor of Social Work and Master of Social Work degrees from Cleveland State University, Summa Cum Laude, and has cultivated extensive experience in behavioral health leadership. He previously served as Clinical Director at Caritas Treatment and Wellness Center, where he oversaw an Intensive Outpatient Program and guided the organization through national accreditation by The Joint Commission. Across multiple clinical settings, Alexander has provided trauma-informed therapy, emphasizing safe, nonjudgmental spaces where clients can explore personal struggles, build resilience, and achieve lasting change. His approach centers on collaboration, authenticity, and empowerment, allowing clients to reclaim their lives with confidence and purpose. Beyond direct clinical care, Alexander is committed to expanding access to mental health services and fostering a culture of growth, compassion, and inclusivity within his practice. He combines hands-on therapeutic work with strategic leadership, ensuring high-quality service delivery while cultivating a supportive environment for both clients and staff. Alexanders dedication to holistic healing, trauma-informed care, and behavioral health leadership positions him as a trusted professional and advocate in the mental health community. His work at Pathways of Peace Counseling & Consultation demonstrates a steadfast commitment to guiding individuals and couples toward meaningful transformation, personal growth, and long-term well-being. Through his clinical expertise, leadership, and unwavering dedication, Alexander Male continues to make a profound impact on the lives of those he serves, helping clients navigate challenges, restore balance, and achieve holistic wellness in mind, body, and spirit. Learn more about Alexander Male: Through his Americas Best in Medicine profile, https://americasbestinmedicine.com/connect/alexander-male or through his profile on Pathways of Peace Counseling & Consultations website, https://www.pathwaysofpeace.com/about Americas Best in Medicine Americas Best in Medicine is a specialist online platform dedicated to amplifying the voices of leading healthcare professionals across the United States. They bring together top healthcare providers from all specialties and cities to share expert-driven articles, research, commentary, and clinical insight. Their core purposes are to showcase excellence in healthcare, build trust between providers and the public, and ensure that expert voices are elevated and heard in shaping medicine. Through their platform, users can access a community of leaders, opportunities for providers to share expertise, and trusted guidance for patients and peers alike.Media ContactAmerica's Best in Medicine*****@americasbestinmedicine.com1-877-346-0175https://americasbestinmedicine.com Source :Alexander MaleThis article was originally published by IssueWire. Read the original article here.
Arlington, Virginia Feb 17, 2026 (Issuewire.com) - Julie Agbasi is a highly skilled physical therapist with a strong background in adult and geriatric rehabilitation. Currently practicing at Mount Auburn Hospital, she provides comprehensive physical therapy services designed to restore function, reduce pain, and enhance the overall quality of life for her patients. Known for her patient-centered approach and clinical precision, Julie tailors individualized care plans that address each patients unique needs, helping them regain independence and achieve meaningful recovery outcomes. Julie holds a Bachelors Degree from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and a Masters Degree from George Washington University, providing a solid academic foundation for her clinical expertise. Her career spans multiple respected healthcare institutions, where she has made a significant impact on patient care. At Boston Medical Center, she served as a contract physical therapist, delivering rehabilitative care to adult and geriatric patients during critical recovery phases. Julie also spent five years at Adventist HealthCare White Oak Medical Center, educating patients, families, and staff on essential safety measures, including sternal precautions and weight-bearing guidelines. Her dedication to safety, clear communication, and excellence has earned her recognition as a trusted professional across multidisciplinary teams. Julie is an active member of the American Physical Therapy Association and the Society for Critical Care Medicine, reflecting her commitment to continued professional growth and evidence-based practice. With over a decade of hands-on clinical experience, she combines advanced knowledge with compassionate care, empowering patients to recover, rebuild strength, and return to their daily activities with confidence. I enjoy helping my patients regain their independence, Julie says. Supporting them as they recover, build strength, and return to their daily lives is the most fulfilling part of my work. Her approach underscores the importance of individualized care, patient education, and collaboration, making her a respected and valued member of the healthcare community. Julie Agbasis career exemplifies dedication, skill, and compassion in physical therapy, highlighting her commitment to improving patient outcomes and enhancing the lives of adult and geriatric populations through evidence-based rehabilitation. Learn more about Julie Agbasi: Through her Americas Best in Medicine profile, https://americasbestinmedicine.com/connect/julie-agbasi Americas Best in Medicine Americas Best in Medicine is a specialist online platform dedicated to amplifying the voices of leading healthcare professionals across the United States. They bring together top healthcare providers from all specialties and cities to share expert-driven articles, research, commentary, and clinical insight. Their core purposes are to showcase excellence in healthcare, build trust between providers and the public, and ensure that expert voices are elevated and heard in shaping medicine. Through their platform, users can access a community of leaders, opportunities for providers to share expertise, and trusted guidance for patients and peers alike.Media ContactAmerica's Best in Medicine*****@americasbestinmedicine.com1-877-346-0175https://americasbestinmedicine.com Source :Julie AgbasiThis article was originally published by IssueWire. Read the original article here.
Albuquerque, New Mexico Feb 16, 2026 (Issuewire.com) - Budget-Navigators (x-budget), we believe that every family deserves access to tools that can help them achieve financial security and peace of mind. Our mission is to provide free, accessible, and easy-to-use budgeting resources that empower families to take control of their finances. SNAP benefits are distributed monthly through Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards, which work like debit cards at grocery stores, farmers markets, and other authorized food retailers. The program serves as a crucial safety net for families facing food insecurity, helping them maintain adequate nutrition while freeing up limited income for other essential expenses like housing, utilities, and healthcare. For eligible families, SNAP can be a vital component of their overall budget strategy. Understanding SNAP Eligibility SNAP eligibility is based on several factors including household income, assets, and expenses. Generally, households must meet both gross and net income limits, though some households with elderly or disabled members may only need to meet the net income test. Gross income limits are typically 130% of the federal poverty level, while net income limits are 100% of the poverty level after allowable deductions. Household size directly affects income limitslarger households can have higher incomes and still qualify. The program also considers certain expenses like housing costs, child care expenses, and medical costs for elderly or disabled members when calculating eligibility. Many states have simplified eligibility rules that make it easier for certain groups to qualify. How to Apply for SNAP Benefits You can apply for SNAP benefits through your state's social services agency, either online, by mail, or in person. The application process typically requires providing information about your household composition, income, expenses, and assets. You'll need documentation such as pay stubs, rent receipts, utility bills, and identification for all household members. Most states require an interview as part of the application process, which can often be conducted by phone. The interview helps verify your information and answer any questions about the program. After approval, benefits are typically available within 30 days, though expedited benefits may be available within 7 days for households with very low income and resources. Calculating SNAP Benefit Amounts SNAP benefit amounts are calculated based on your household's net income after allowable deductions. The maximum benefit amount varies by household size and is adjusted annually for inflation. For 2024, the maximum monthly benefit for a household of four is approximately $939. Most households receive less than the maximum based on their income and expenses. The benefit calculation considers your net monthly income, which is your gross income minus allowable deductions for housing costs, dependent care, medical expenses, and standard deductions. Understanding how these deductions work can help you maximize your benefit amount. Some states also offer additional deductions or simplified rules that can increase benefits. Maximizing Your SNAP BenefitsReport Changes Promptly If your income decreases or expenses increase, report these changes to your caseworker immediately. This can result in increased benefits. Common changes that should be reported include job loss, reduced work hours, increased rent or utility costs, or new medical expenses. Keeping your caseworker informed ensures you receive the maximum benefits you're entitled to. Take Advantage of Deductions Make sure you're claiming all allowable deductions, including housing costs, child care expenses, and medical expenses for elderly or disabled household members. Some expenses you might not think to report, like certain utility costs or medical transportation, may be deductible. Work with your caseworker to ensure all eligible expenses are included in your calculation. Use Benefits Strategically Plan your grocery shopping to maximize the value of your SNAP benefits. Look for sales, use coupons, buy in bulk when possible, and focus on nutritious, filling foods. Many farmers markets now accept SNAP benefits and may offer matching programs that double your purchasing power for fresh fruits and vegetables. Special Programs and Additional BenefitsDouble Up Food Bucks Many states and communities offer Double Up Food Bucks programs that match SNAP benefits used at farmers markets, effectively doubling your purchasing power for fresh produce. This program helps families afford healthy foods while supporting local farmers. Check with your local farmers market or state SNAP office to see if this program is available in your area. Free School Meals Children in households receiving SNAP benefits are automatically eligible for free school meals through the National School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs. This can significantly reduce your family's food costs during the school year. Contact your child's school to ensure they're enrolled in the free meal program. WIC Program Pregnant women, new mothers, and young children may also qualify for the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), which provides additional nutrition assistance. WIC benefits can be used alongside SNAP benefits to further stretch your food budget. WIC provides specific nutritious foods, nutrition education, and breastfeeding support. Using SNAP Benefits Effectively SNAP benefits can be used to purchase most food items including fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy products, bread, cereals, and seeds or plants that produce food. However, benefits cannot be used to purchase alcohol, tobacco, vitamins, medicines, hot prepared foods, or non-food items. Understanding what you can and cannot purchase helps you plan your shopping effectively. Many grocery stores now offer online ordering and delivery services that accept SNAP benefits, making it easier to shop and compare prices. Some stores also offer special discounts or programs for SNAP recipients. Take advantage of these services to maximize convenience and savings. Recertification and Maintaining Benefits SNAP benefits are not permanentyou must recertify periodically, typically every 6 to 12 months depending on your state and circumstances. The recertification process involves updating your income, expenses, and household information. Failure to complete recertification on time can result in loss of benefits, so mark important dates on your calendar and submit required documentation promptly. Some states offer simplified reporting for certain households, allowing you to report changes less frequently. Ask your caseworker if you qualify for simplified reporting, which can make it easier to maintain your benefits. Conclusion SNAP benefits can be a crucial resource for families struggling to afford adequate nutrition. Understanding eligibility requirements, the application process, and how to maximize benefits can help families make the most of this important program. If you think you might qualify, don't hesitate to applymany eligible families don't realize they qualify or find the application process easier than expected. Remember that SNAP is designed to supplement your food budget, not replace all food spending. Combined with smart shopping strategies and other assistance programs, SNAP can help ensure your family has access to nutritious food while managing your overall household budget effectively.Media [email protected]+1 (844) 973-51481209 MOUNTAIN ROAD PL NE STE Rhttps://x-budget.com Source :Budget-Navigators LLCThis article was originally published by IssueWire. Read the original article here.
Monterey, California Feb 17, 2026 (Issuewire.com) - Monterey County Bank and Voilà have announced the launch of a new Community-Based Insurance Program designed to synchronize banking and insurance needs into one coordinated experience, helping customers obtain the coverage they need at affordable rates tailored to their situation. Through this collaboration, business customers can access loan financing and customized insurance coverage in a single, aligned process. When a loan requires insurance, the program workflows are designed to reduce back-and-forth, saving time, and easing the overall burden on customers. Voilà partners with more than 50 insurance carriers and actively shops the market on each customers behalf to help secure competitive rates and coverage options that fit specific risk profiles and business goals. The company focuses on carriers that have made intentional plans to serve particular communities, allowing Voilà to match banks that are deeply rooted in a region with insurers that are committed to being in those same communities. The program also helps synchronize all proof-of-insurance documentation needed for loans, both at the time they are issued and at renewal, so banks and customers stay aligned and compliant without extra hassle. This coordination is designed to make the insurance side of lending more transparent and reliable throughout the life of the loan. As part of the program, Voilà will provide Monterey County Bank customers with a complimentary risk and insurance assessment to help confirm they are getting the coverage they need at the best available price. This annual Risk Review & Renewal Readiness process is intended to keep protection up to date while continually looking for opportunities to optimize cost. This partnership is about aligning financial services with community values, said Bill Wilson, President and CEO of Monterey County Bank. By coordinating insurance with banking, were helping local business owners get the right protection and personalized service without added complexity. Many Monterey County Bank customers have raised questions about how to manage fire risk at a time when some insurers have scaled back or left the region. The new program with Voilà is designed to help address these concerns by actively shopping a broad range of carriers and guiding customers through their options so they can understand what coverage is available, where there may be gaps, and how best to protect their property against fire while keeping costs manageable. Voilà CEO Chirag Pancholi added, At Voilà, we identify and work with insurers who share a goal of being present in the communities our banking partners serve. That alignment helps us better connect local businesses with trusted coverage options from insurers who want to be an active part of the same communities. We have insurers who take a holistic view and want to be in this area and offer property and fire coverage. This kind of regional-specific understanding and commitment is essential to ensuring businesses have access to the protection they need at sustainable, affordable rates. Recently, Monterey County Bank was recognized with the 2025 Award of Excellence from the Carmel Chamber of Commerce, underscoring its leadership and long-standing commitment to serving local businesses and the broader community. This new Community-Based Insurance Program builds on that recognition by pairing award-winning community banking with modern, locally attuned insurance solutions that reflect the realities and risks of the area. For more information about the Community-Based Insurance Program, visit https://voilainsurance.com/mcb About Monterey County Bank:Established in 1977, Monterey County Bank (MCB) is the longest-standing independent bank headquartered in Monterey County, California. From the beginning, MCB has been dedicated to supporting the regional economy through tailored small business and commercial banking services. Over the years, the Bank has grown steadily, maintaining a strong presence in Monterey, Carmel, Pacific Grove, Salinas, and greater Monterey County. In late 2024, MCB launched a comprehensive modernization initiativeintroducing new leadership and investing in advanced technology to enhance customer service and expand its capabilities. This transformation marks a new chapter in the Banks history, building on decades of experience while embracing innovation to better serve the community. About Voilà InsuranceVoilà Insurance brings together veteran leaders in banking, insurance, and credit union law to make insurance simple and accessible nationwide. The team includes founders and executives with experience at organizations such as AIG, Asurion, Goldman Sachs, and the Federal Reserve, alongside top regulatory and CUSO counsel who guide compliant, growthfocused programs for financial institutions. Together, this blend of operational, underwriting, and regulatory expertise allows Voilà to build modern insurance solutions that streamline the customer journey and support credit unions and partners across the country Voilà is providing the insurance service, and both operate and comply with the relevant banking and insurance regulations designed to protect consumers. The insurance products are not deposits, guaranteed by the bank, or covered by the FDIC.Insurance products described in this release are not deposits or obligations of, or guaranteed by, Monterey County Bank and are not insured by the FDIC or any other federal government agency. Monterey County Bank is not offering or soliciting insurance directly, and does not require customers to purchase insurance through this program. Coverage is subject to the terms, conditions, exclusions, and availability of the policies issued by participating insurance carriers, and may not be available in all areas. Eligibility, pricing, and underwriting decisions are made solely by the applicable insurers. Monterey County Bank and Voilà do not provide legal or tax advice; customers should consult their own professional advisors regarding their specific situations.Media ContactVoilà [email protected](877)467-9938http://www.voilainsurance.com Source :Monterey County Bank and Voila InsuranceThis article was originally published by IssueWire. Read the original article here.
Garden City, New York Feb 17, 2026 (Issuewire.com) - The global blockchain-in-sports sector is already valued at approximately $2 billion, with projections suggesting it could exceed $10 billion over the next decade. Within that expansion, on-chain ticketing alone is expected to approach $4 billion in market value in the coming years. For Dima Saksonov Founder and CEO of the Blockchain Sports Ecosystem and creator of the sports-focused Layer-1 blockchain Atleta these numbers reflect something deeper than market growth. They signal a structural shift in how sport may operate in the future. According to Saksonov, todays sports economy is built on fragile foundations. The industry is drowning in opaque deals, corruption, and a general lack of trust and transparency. Where the System Breaks Saksonov argues that the problem is not talent, fan engagement, or revenue potential. The problem is control. Professional sport remains dominated by centralized entities that manage data, contracts, and financial flows behind closed doors. In football transfers, for example, he describes a system layered with intermediaries who insert themselves into negotiations and collect significant commissions. Clubs and supporters rarely see full financial transparency. Player performance and medical data are also controlled by institutions whose incentives may not align with open disclosure. Theres no open ledger of medical transparency: buyers rely on whatever sanitized version the selling club shares. In Saksonovs view, this structure persists because the data itself is centralized. When one party controls information, that party controls the narrative. If performance records or injury histories are selectively presented, there is often no independent mechanism to verify accuracy. Verifiable Performance Data Saksonov sees blockchain infrastructure as a corrective layer. Atleta integrates performance sensors and wearable devices that capture match activity in real time. That data is written directly to the blockchain, where it becomes tamper-resistant and independently verifiable. Atletas infrastructure uses sensors to capture everything happening with players during matches and records it on the blockchain. This approach shifts performance tracking from private databases to immutable records. Rather than relying solely on subjective reporting, clubs and scouts can access consistent on-chain data. The same applies to historical performance metrics and, where appropriate, medical transparency. Saksonov believes this could fundamentally change negotiations, valuations, and player mobility. Blockchain replaces guesswork with trust. Infrastructure, Not Gimmicks While several blockchain projects have focused narrowly on fan tokens or digital collectibles, Saksonov emphasizes that Atletas mission is broader. We have a clear focus on the sports industry, but were not limiting ourselves to narrow use cases like fan tokens or on-chain ticketing. Were building a holistic infrastructure that helps sports institutions and athletes tackle their long-standing problems. This infrastructure includes: A proprietary Layer-1 blockchain optimized for sports use cases On-chain performance data systems Developer grants to build sports-related decentralized applications Integration with DeFi infrastructure Technically, Atleta processes up to 80 transactions per second, operates with a 6-second block time, and offers instant finality. Our blockchain processes up to 80 transactions per second with a block time of 6 seconds, and finality is instant no need to wait for multiple block confirmations until the transaction is irreversible. This speed is critical when logging thousands of real-time data points from sensors during matches or supporting live betting and prediction markets. From Data to Opportunity Atletas expansion includes a football academy in Brazil, where performance data from young athletes is tokenized and made visible to clubs and scouts. Saksonov frames this as a pathway to visibility for players who may otherwise be overlooked. Rethinking Ticketing and Fan Participation Ticketing is another area where Saksonov believes blockchain can eliminate inefficiencies. Counterfeit tickets and extreme resale markups have long frustrated supporters. On-chain ticketing introduces verifiable ownership and programmable resale conditions. He also points to deeper engagement models: Instead of being passive spectators, supporters can participate in polls, unlock exclusive content, or trade digital assets tied to their team. Blockchain-based systems allow fans to own digital collectibles, participate in governance mechanisms, and receive direct rewards for engagement. The goal is to move fans from spectators to stakeholders. Makig Web3 Invisible Despite advocating for blockchain infrastructure, Saksonov stresses that complexity must not reach the end user. Web3 mostly works for fans if the blockchain part disappears into the background. Fans should not need to understand wallets, gas fees, or private keys. Payments should function with familiar methods. The blockchain layer should operate quietly behind the scenes. Fans should be able to buy with a card, get their ticket in a wallet they barely notice is blockchain, and enjoy extras like loyalty points or digital collectibles. In other words: remove friction, preserve simplicity, retain transparency. The Long View Saksonov expects blockchain adoption in sport to expand steadily across: Player transfers Performance analytics Ticketing Betting infrastructure Fan governance Digital collectibles He does not present Web3 as a quick fix or marketing trend. Instead, he frames it as foundational infrastructure capable of addressing long-standing inefficiencies. For Saksonov, the shift is inevitable. People will increasingly use blockchain to attend matches and be part of their favorite clubs story. If that transition materializes, sports may move toward a model where data is verifiable, transactions are transparent, and participation extends beyond watching from the stands. In Saksonovs view, Web3 is not about speculation. It is about rebuilding trust into the architecture of global sport.Media ContactTOO "PRagent"*****@yandex.ru Source :LLC "PR-agent"This article was originally published by IssueWire. Read the original article here.
London, United Kingdom Feb 16, 2026 (Issuewire.com) - AGII today announced its development plan for Behavioral Consensus Logic, a forward-looking governance framework designed to enhance smart contract coordination through predictive behavioral intelligence. The initiative outlines a structured roadmap for integrating adaptive logic models into decentralized governance systems, allowing contracts to evaluate participation patterns, consensus dynamics and environmental signals before executing governance outcomes. This development plan reinforces AGIIs long-term objective of strengthening autonomy and intelligence within Web3 infrastructure. The proposed Behavioral Consensus Logic framework introduces an intelligent layer that observes historical voting trends, stakeholder engagement signals and execution conditions to guide governance-triggered contract behavior. By embedding behavioral modeling directly into consensus mechanisms, AGII aims to reduce governance friction, mitigate coordination delays and improve the stability of decentralized decision-making processes. The development roadmap includes phased implementation focused on transparency, auditability and alignment with multi-chain governance standards. AGIIs initiative is structured to ensure that governance contracts evolve alongside network growth and community participation patterns. The system is designed to refine its understanding of behavioral dynamics over time, enabling contracts to anticipate participation shifts and execution risks before proposals reach finalization. This approach supports resilient governance structures capable of operating efficiently even in high-volume or rapidly evolving blockchain environments. J. King Kasr, Chief Scientist at KaJ Labs, stated that Behavioral Consensus Logic represents a pivotal advancement in decentralized coordination. He emphasized that governance systems must evolve beyond static voting mechanisms toward predictive frameworks that understand behavioral momentum, enabling smarter, more stable and forward-aligned contract execution across decentralized ecosystems. About AGII AGII is an advanced artificial intelligence platform designed to enhance autonomy and intelligence in decentralized systems. By integrating predictive modeling and adaptive logic, AGII equips developers and organizations with next-generation tools for building secure, scalable and intelligent Web3 infrastructure.Media ContactKaJ [email protected] University Way NE 104- #175https://kajlabs.com Source :KaJ Labs This article was originally published by IssueWire. Read the original article here.
