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TROY, Mich., July 14, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Vitesco Technologies USA LLC – the North America unit of Vitesco Technologies Group AG – a leading international developer and manufacturer of modern powertrain technologies for sustainable mobility – has named Bianchi Public Relations, Inc. as its public relations agency of record (AOR).
Michael R. Stoller, Jr., head of communications for Vitesco North America, and James A. Bianchi, APR, president of Bianchi PR, made the announcement. Terms of the agreement were not disclosed.
The former Powertrain division of Continental, Vitesco Technologies is a global leader in intelligent and reliable system solutions and components for electric, hybrid and combustion powertrains. Vitesco Technologies is one of only a few suppliers worldwide to offer the full range of electronics, software and system integration for powertrain electrification.
It has been an independent listed company on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange (symbol VTSC) since Sept. 16, 2021.
"Vitesco Technologies is using its electronics expertise and a clear focus on electrification growth to help lead the automotive industry's transition toward more sustainable mobility," said Stoller. "We are excited to share our vision and amplify our voice among our customers and within the industry as an innovation leader."
As agency of record, Bianchi PR will provide Vitesco Technologies with ongoing public relations, media relations and thought leadership support in North America, especially across the automotive, commercial vehicle and related mobility sectors.
"While we've worked with many automotive and commercial vehicle suppliers throughout our 30-year history, this is the first time working with a 150-year-old startup that already ranks among the top 30 automotive suppliers in the world," said Bianchi. "Helping this 'new' company that is all-in on EV powertrain solutions to build its recognition as the perfect partner for vehicle manufacturers aligns perfectly with our mission: to help innovators make mobility, and the world, better."
Vitesco Technologies is a leading international developer and manufacturer of state-of-the-art powertrain technologies for sustainable mobility. With smart system solutions and components for electric, hybrid and internal combustion drivetrains, Vitesco Technologies makes mobility clean, efficient, and affordable. The product range includes electrified drivetrain systems, electronic control units, sensors and actuators, and exhaust -gas aftertreatment solutions.
In 2021, Vitesco Technologies recorded sales of $9.17 billion and employs around 37,000 employees at about 50 locations worldwide. Vitesco Technologies is headquartered in Regensburg, Germany, with North American regional headquarters in Auburn Hills, Michigan, USA.
Bianchi PR offers unmatched expertise in business-to-business public relations for automotive and mobility technology suppliers, including new entrants with enabling technologies for emobility, autonomous vehicles and connected vehicles.
Founded in 1992, Bianchi PR's mission is to help innovators make mobility, and the world, better: smarter, safer, cleaner, more efficient, more comfortable, more fun and more reliable.
Among Bianchi PR's ongoing business-to-business PR clients are Adient, Cooper Standard, Freudenberg Sealing Technologies, Rolls-Royce Solutions America/mtu brand, SAE International, Schaeffler Group, Yanfeng and, along with its San Francisco partner agency Landis Communications, Inc., adaptive lidar leader AEye, Inc.
The firm's experience also includes work with automotive technology companies such as ZF TRW, Valeo and Ibeo Automotive Systems, as well as consulting firms and industry trade organizations such as the Automotive Industry Action Group, the Center for Automotive Research and the Steel Market Development Institute.
As the Detroit affiliate for the Public Relations Global Network, the firm also offers expert, on-the-ground PR support in all major markets around the world. For more information, visit www.bianchipr.com or call 248-269-1122.
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SOURCE Bianchi Public Relations, Inc. | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/07/14/ev-powertrain-expert-vitesco-technologies-north-america-selects-bianchi-public-relations-pr-agency-record/ | 2022-07-14T13:42:37Z |
Largest Nail Manufacturer Previously Donated Cash to Habitat for Humanity for Disaster Relief Efforts
POPLAR BLUFF, Mo., June 1, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Mid-Continent Steel and Wire (MCSW), the nation's largest nail manufacturer, announced today that it has delivered 3.5 million American-made MAGNUM nails to Kentucky Habitat for Humanity. During National Rebuilding Month, the company donated $20,000 to support disaster relief efforts in Kentucky and also pledged to donate nails to the blitz housing projects planned in Bowling Green and Dawson Springs. This delivery fulfills the company's pledge as residents ramp up efforts to rebuild and restore.
It's been reported that, months after the tornadoes struck, hundreds of people remain in temporary housing, including travel trailers, hotel rooms, and state parks. A fourth round of tornado recovery relief was just announced by Kentucky Governor Beshear to help support families until homes and lives can be rebuilt.
"The Mid-Continent family believes we all need to do our part to build better and stronger communities," said Fernando Villanueva, Mid-Continent's CEO. "It feels good to see millions of American-made MAGNUM nails on the ground in Kentucky. They are going contribute to the building and rebuilding of safe homes for the residents of Bowling Green and Dawson Springs."
Mid Continent's donations to Kentucky Habitat for Humanity are being spilt between projects in two areas of the state that were hit hardest by the December tornadoes. The Bowling Green project includes 10 homes and is expected to break ground in mid-July. The Dawson Springs project includes 14 homes and is expected to break ground next fall.
Mary Shearer, executive director of Kentucky Habitat for Humanity, said of the partnership with Mid-Continent, "We cannot thank Mid-Continent Steel and Wire enough for their support, passion, and dedication to not only Habitat for Humanity, but the countless families we will serve with their donations. It is because of companies like Mid-Continent and your employees that Habitat is going to rebuild the lives and communities of those who lost so much!"
Please follow Mid-Continent's Facebook page for updates on our partnership with Kentucky Habitat for Humanity, including a video message from CEO Fernando Villanueva and details on the two blitz builds.
About Mid-Continent Steel and Wire (MCSW): Mid-Continent Steel and Wire is one of the biggest wire manufactures in North America and with its MAGNUM brand it is the nation's largest nail manufacturer. The company's main locations are in Poplar Bluff, MO; Houston, TX; and Laredo, TX.
MCSW and its dedicated family of brands and employees are committed to providing a comprehensive mix of high-quality products and outstanding service each and every day. We aim to build and secure the future of our communities, employees, customers, suppliers, and shareholders by offering reliable, best-in-class steel solutions at an unbeatable value.
For more information, visit www.mcswusa.com.
Contact: Elizabeth Heaton, elizabeth@EAHstrategiesLLC.com, 202-445-9858
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SOURCE Mid Continent Steel & Wire, Inc. | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/06/01/mid-continent-delivers-35-million-nails-complete-donation-put-kentucky-tornado-victims-homes/ | 2022-06-01T21:59:17Z |
CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — Baker Mayfield went to his denial play call.
Carolina’s starting quarterback said that he never said anything malicious about the Cleveland Browns, who traded him to the Panthers this summer.
“First, I didn’t say that,” Mayfield said following Wednesday’s practice. “Everybody is going to write what they want (because) there is history there the last four years.”
NFL Network analytics analyst Cynthia Frelund, who was working as a Buffalo Bills sideline reporter for Friday night’s preseason game against Carolina, said on a podcast that Mayfield had some choice words for his former team following the game.
Frelund said Mayfield said “I’m going to (expletive) them up, ” when talking about Panthers’ Sept. 11 season opener against the Browns while a guest on the “Around the NFL” podcast with Dan Hanzus, Marc Sessler and Gregg Rosenthal.
“I walked up to him and said, ‘I’m so excited to see you, like, go kick some butt,’ I didn’t say that word,” Frelund said with a laugh in the podcast. “… Go kick some butt, especially Week 1, I like cannot wait. And he uses some expletives and I was like, ‘I just hope you’re like ready.’ He was like, ’I’m gonna bleep them up.”
Mayfield said he was shocked to hear about the report on Tuesday.
“If I wasn’t wanting to win then there would be a really big issue of me being the quarterback here,” Mayfield said. “I want to win at everything I do and that will never change. That is not how I phrased it, that is not even what I said, so we will leave it at that.”
Mayfield said he did have a conversation after the game with Frelund, but said “All I did was agree — I hope we win. It’s pretty plain and simple. … I don’t think it should be harped on.”
Mayfield said it has become a big story because “I haven’t given the media what they wanted me to give them this offseason, so this is what they think that I’ve said, and it’s not.”
Frelund told The Associated Press on Tuesday that she should not have disclosed what was a private conversation on a podcast.
She said she was trying to be supportive of Mayfield and defend him.
The Browns traded Mayfield to the Panthers on July 6 after acquiring Deshaun Watson in a deal with the Houston Texans,
Cleveland agreed to pay $10.5 million of Mayfield’s scheduled $18.8 million contract. The Panthers will pay him $4.8 million this year, while Mayfield took a pay cut for the remaining portion of the contract to help facilitate the trade and get out of Cleveland.
Since being traded to Carolina, Mayfield has been careful in choosing his words in news conference settings when talking about the Browns.
He has said the game will mean a little extra to him, but nothing inflammatory.
“I have taken this approach this offseason to go about my business and let people say what they want and just control what I can,” Mayfield said. “I have always had fun playing football and that’s never going to change. I’m passionate about it and nobody can take that away from me. But off the field I have learned to keep it to the minimum and keep it within house and just talk to our guys and our people — that’s what matters.”
Cleveland’s All-Pro defensive end Myles Garrett said Tuesday the Browns will use the comments as “motivation” and “fuel” for the game.
Garrett said he’s not surprised that his former teammate would say something to fire himself up.
“I know he has that swagger, that confidence that borders on arrogance in some people’s eyes,” Garrett said. “But he’s always played with a chip on his shoulder, and I think we have as an organization as well. So however he feels or goes about it in his mind scape to prepare for the game to play us at the highest level for him, it’s whatever.”
After spending one season with Mayfield, Browns cornerback Greg Newsome II is fully aware of the QB’s trash-talking abilities.
And like Garrett, Newsome said the Browns will use Mayfield’s comments for motivation.
“You try to find anything that can give you an edge,” Newsome said. “So something like that being said, whether he phrased it like that or not, we can just use that for our benefit and go out there and just try and get a win Week 1.”
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AP Sports Writer Tom Withers in Cleveland contributed to this report.
___
More AP NFL coverage: https://apnews.com/hub/NFL and https://twitter.com/AP_NFL | https://cw33.com/sports/ap-sports/ap-panthers-mayfield-denies-using-malicious-words-vs-browns/ | 2022-09-01T03:55:27Z |
WASHINGTON, July 19, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Massachusetts students will have an opportunity this week to hear from crew members aboard the International Space Station, including a NASA astronaut. The Earth-to-space call will air live at 12:10 p.m. EDT Wednesday, July 20, on NASA Television, the NASA app, and the agency's website.
NASA astronaut and Boston University graduate Bob Hines, along with ESA (European Space Agency) astronaut Samantha Cristoforetti, will answer prerecorded questions from local students. Participants include Boston University and Boston University Academy students, as well as students from grades K-12 outreach programs, such as The Calculus Project, Alexander Twilight Academy, and Upward Bound from the greater Boston area. The K-12 students will tour the university's STEM facilities, attend space-related presentations, participate in hands-on activities, and attend the event.
Media interested in covering the event should contact Rachel Lapal Cavallario at: rlapal@bu.edu or (774) 254-2506.
Linking students directly to astronauts aboard the space station provides unique, authentic experiences designed to enhance student learning, performance, and interest in STEM. Astronauts living in space on the orbiting laboratory communicate with NASA's Mission Control Center in Houston 24 hours a day through the Near Space Network Tracking and Data Relay Satellites (TDRS).
For more than 21 years, astronauts have continuously lived and worked aboard the space station, testing technologies, performing science, and developing the skills needed to explore farther from Earth. Through NASA's Artemis program, the agency will send astronauts to the Moon, with eventual human exploration of Mars. Inspiring the next generation of explorers – the Artemis Generation – ensures America will continue to lead in space exploration and discovery.
See videos and lesson plans highlighting research on the International Space Station at:
https://www.nasa.gov/stemonstation
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SOURCE NASA | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/07/19/boston-students-hear-nasa-esa-astronauts-aboard-space-station/ | 2022-07-19T22:33:07Z |
- FY22 sales increased 9 percent year-over-year to $2.0 billion; 11 percent on an organic basis
- Strong full-year operating leverage drove significant improvement in annual operating margin
- FY22 earnings per diluted share (EPS) of $1.72 and adjusted EPS of $1.78 versus $0.65 and $1.04, respectively, in FY21
- Returned $152 million to shareholders in FY22; $85 million in share repurchases and $67 million in dividends
- Q4 sales increased 3 percent year-over-year to $530 million; 7 percent on an organic basis
PITTSBURGH, Aug. 1, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Kennametal Inc. (NYSE: KMT) (the "Company") today announced fourth quarter and fiscal 2022 results. For the fourth quarter, the Company reported earnings per diluted share (EPS) of $0.50, compared with $0.41 in the prior year quarter. The current quarter adjusted EPS was $0.53, compared with $0.53 in the prior year quarter. For fiscal 2022, the Company reported EPS of $1.72, compared with $0.65 in the prior year. Adjusted EPS was $1.78 in the current year, compared with $1.04 in the prior year.
"We posted solid results this year with strong full-year operating leverage delivering over 300 basis points of year-over-year adjusted operating margin improvement. These results demonstrate continued success in executing our Operational and Commercial Excellence initiatives, including timely pricing actions to cover inflationary pressures," said Christopher Rossi, President and CEO.
Rossi continued, "Given our demonstrated ability to operate successfully in an uncertain macroeconomic environment, while maintaining a strong balance sheet, returning cash to shareholders and investing in the business, I am confident our strategic initiatives will continue to drive growth and improved profitability over the long-term."
Fiscal 2022 Fourth Quarter Key Developments
Sales were $530 million compared with $516 million in the same quarter last year. Sales increased by 3 percent, driven by 7 percent organic growth, partially offset by an unfavorable currency exchange effect of 4 percent.
Operating income was $63 million, or 11.8 percent margin, compared with $61 million, or 11.8 percent margin, in the same quarter last year. The increase in operating income was due primarily to organic sales growth, favorable pricing, lower incentive compensation costs and restructuring and related charges of $2 million compared to $5 million in the prior year quarter, partially offset by higher raw material costs of approximately $22 million and certain manufacturing inefficiencies including higher depreciation. Adjusted operating income was $65 million, or 12.3 percent margin, compared with $66 million, or 12.8 percent margin, in the prior year quarter.
The reported effective tax rate (ETR) was 27.8 percent and the adjusted ETR was 27.6 percent, compared to a reported ETR of 31.4 percent and an adjusted ETR of 24.3 percent in the prior year quarter. The year-over-year change in both the reported and adjusted ETR's was primarily due to higher pretax income in the current year, a non-recurring favorable adjustment in the prior year associated with a tax rate change in the U.K. and geographical mix.
Reported EPS in the current quarter includes restructuring and related charges of $0.02 per share and charges related to Russian and Ukrainian operations of $0.01 per share. Reported EPS in the prior year quarter includes restructuring and related charges of $0.05 per share, the partial annuitization of Canadian pension plans of $0.02 per share and differences in projected annual tax rates of $0.05 per share.
During the current quarter, the Company repurchased 1.3 million shares of Kennametal common stock for $35 million under its share repurchase program. Year-to-date the Company has repurchased 2.7 million shares of common stock for $85 million under the $200 million three-year program.
Fiscal 2022 Key Developments
Sales of $2,012 million increased from $1,841 million in the prior year. Sales increased by 9 percent, driven by 11 percent organic growth, partially offset by an unfavorable currency exchange effect of 2 percent.
Operating income was $218 million, or 10.8 percent margin, compared with $102 million, or 5.5 percent margin, in the prior year. The increase in operating income was due primarily to organic sales growth, restructuring and related charges of $4 million compared to $40 million in the prior year, favorable pricing, lower incentive compensation costs, favorable product mix and approximately $14 million of incremental simplification/modernization benefits, partially offset by higher raw material costs of approximately $49 million, certain manufacturing inefficiencies including higher depreciation and approximately $25 million due to the restoration of salaries and other cost-control measures that were taken in the prior year. Adjusted operating income was $224 million, or 11.1 percent margin, compared with $143 million, or 7.7 percent margin, in the prior year.
Net cash flow provided by operating activities in fiscal 2022 was $181 million compared to $236 million in the prior year. The change in net cash flow provided by operating activities was driven primarily by working capital adjustments in part due to increased safety stock for potential supply chain disruptions and higher raw material costs, partially offset by higher net income. Free operating cash flow (FOCF) was $85 million compared to $113 million in the prior year. The change in FOCF was driven primarily by working capital adjustments in part due to increased safety stock for potential supply chain disruptions and higher raw material costs, partially offset by higher net income and lower capital expenditures.
In fiscal 2022, Kennametal continued its focus on delivering shareholder value by returning $152 million to the shareholders through $85 million in share repurchases and $67 million in dividends, while investing $96 million in net capital expenditures.
Outlook
The Company's expectations for the first quarter of fiscal 2023 and the full year are as follows:
Quarterly Outlook:
- Sales expected to be $480 - $500 million; USD strength expected to be a $25 - $30 million headwind compared to the first quarter of fiscal 2022
- Adjusted operating income expected to be at least $45 million
Annual Outlook:
- Pricing actions expected to offset raw material costs, wage and general inflation
- Free operating cash flow at approximately 100 percent of adjusted net income
- Primary working capital as a percent of sales maintained at 31 - 33 percent throughout the year
- Capital spending expected to be $100 - $120 million
- Adjusted ETR is expected to be 26 - 28 percent
- $200 million three-year share repurchase program to continue
The Company will provide more details regarding its fiscal 2023 assumptions during its quarterly earnings conference call.
Fiscal 2022 Fourth Quarter Segment Results
Metal Cutting sales of $316 million increased 1 percent from $312 million in the prior year quarter due to organic sales growth of 7 percent, partially offset by an unfavorable currency exchange effect of 6 percent. Operating income was $34 million, or 10.8 percent margin, compared to $33 million, or 10.6 percent margin, in the prior year quarter. The increase in operating income was due primarily to organic sales growth, favorable pricing, lower incentive compensation costs and restructuring and related charges of $1 million compared to $4 million in the prior year quarter, partially offset by certain manufacturing inefficiencies including higher depreciation and higher raw material costs of approximately $6 million. Adjusted operating income was $36 million, or 11.3 percent margin, compared to $37 million, or 11.7 percent margin, in the prior year quarter.
Infrastructure sales of $214 million increased 5 percent from $204 million in the prior year quarter driven by organic sales growth of 7 percent, partially offset by an unfavorable currency exchange effect of 2 percent. Operating income was $29 million, or 13.7 percent margin, compared to $28 million, or 13.5 percent margin, in the prior year quarter. The increase in operating income was due primarily to organic sales growth, favorable pricing and lower incentive compensation costs, partially offset by higher raw material costs of approximately $16 million and certain manufacturing inefficiencies including higher depreciation. Adjusted operating income was $30 million, or 14.0 percent margin, compared to $30 million, or 14.5 percent margin, in the prior year quarter.
Dividend Declared
Kennametal also announced that its Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.20 per share. The dividend is payable on August 23, 2022 to shareholders of record as of the close of business on August 9, 2022.
The Company will discuss its fiscal 2022 fourth quarter and full year results in a live webcast at 8:00 a.m. Eastern Time, Tuesday, August 2, 2022. The conference call will be broadcast via real-time audio on Kennametal's investor relations website at https://investors.kennametal.com/ - click "Event" (located in the blue Quarterly Earnings block).
This earnings release contains non-GAAP financial measures. Reconciliations and descriptions of all non-GAAP financial measures are set forth in the tables that follow.
Certain statements in this release may be forward-looking in nature, or "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Forward-looking statements are statements that do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. For example, statements about Kennametal's outlook for earnings, sales volumes, cash flow, capital expenditures, working capital and effective tax rate for fiscal year 2023 and our expectations regarding future growth and financial performance are forward-looking statements. Any forward-looking statements are based on current knowledge, expectations and estimates that involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should the assumptions underlying the forward-looking statements prove incorrect, our actual results could vary materially from our current expectations. There are a number of factors that could cause our actual results to differ from those indicated in the forward-looking statements. They include: uncertainties related to changes in macroeconomic and/or global conditions, including as a result of increased inflation and Russia's invasion of Ukraine and the resulting sanctions on Russia; uncertainties related to the effects of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, including the emergence of more contagious or virulent strains of the virus, its impacts on our business operations, financial results and financial position and on the industries in which we operate and the global economy generally, including as a result of travel restrictions, business and workforce disruptions associated with the pandemic; other economic recession; our ability to achieve all anticipated benefits of restructuring, simplification and modernization initiatives; our foreign operations and international markets, such as currency exchange rates, different regulatory environments, trade barriers, exchange controls, and social and political instability, including the conflict in Ukraine; changes in the regulatory environment in which we operate, including environmental, health and safety regulations; potential for future goodwill and other intangible asset impairment charges; our ability to protect and defend our intellectual property; continuity of information technology infrastructure; competition; our ability to retain our management and employees; demands on management resources; availability and cost of the raw materials we use to manufacture our products; product liability claims; integrating acquisitions and achieving the expected savings and synergies; global or regional catastrophic events; demand for and market acceptance of our products; business divestitures; energy costs; commodity prices; labor relations; and implementation of environmental remediation matters. Many of these risks and other risks are more fully described in Kennametal's latest annual report on Form 10-K and its other periodic filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. We can give no assurance that any goal or plan set forth in forward-looking statements can be achieved and readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such statements, which speak only as of the date made. We undertake no obligation to release publicly any revisions to forward-looking statements as a result of future events or developments.
About Kennametal
With over 80 years as an industrial technology leader, Kennametal Inc. delivers productivity to customers through materials science, tooling and wear-resistant solutions. Customers across aerospace, earthworks, energy, general engineering and transportation turn to Kennametal to help them manufacture with precision and efficiency. Every day approximately 8,700 employees are helping customers in more than 60 countries stay competitive. Kennametal generated $2 billion in revenues in fiscal 2022. Learn more at www.kennametal.com. Follow @Kennametal: Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and YouTube.
NON-GAAP RECONCILIATIONS (UNAUDITED)
In addition to reported results under generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America (GAAP), the following financial highlight tables include, where appropriate, a reconciliation of adjusted results including: operating income and margin; ETR; net income attributable to Kennametal; diluted EPS; Metal Cutting operating income and margin; Infrastructure operating income and margin; FOCF; and consolidated and segment organic sales growth (all of which are non-GAAP financial measures), to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measures. Adjustments for the three months ended June 30, 2022 include restructuring and related charges, charges related to Russian and Ukrainian operations and differences in projected annual tax rates. Adjustments for the three months ended June 30, 2021 include restructuring and related charges, the partial annuitization of Canadian pension plans and differences in projected annual tax rates. Adjustments for the twelve months ended June 30, 2022 include restructuring and related charges, charges related to Russian and Ukrainian operations, and a gain on the New Castle divestiture. Adjustments for the twelve months ended June 30, 2021 include restructuring and related charges, a discrete tax benefit, the effects from the early extinguishment of debt, and the partial annuitization of Canadian pension plans. For those adjustments that are presented 'net of tax', the tax effect of the adjustment can be derived by calculating the difference between the pre-tax and the post-tax adjustments presented. The tax effect on adjustments is calculated by preparing an overall tax calculation including the adjustments and then a tax calculation excluding the adjustments. The difference between these calculations results in the tax impact of the adjustments.
Management believes that presentation of these non-GAAP financial measures provides useful information about the results of operations of the Company for the current and past periods. Management believes that investors should have available the same information that management uses to assess operating performance, determine compensation and assess the capital structure of the Company. These non-GAAP financial measures should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for the most comparable GAAP financial measures. Investors are cautioned that non-GAAP financial measures used by management may not be comparable to non-GAAP financial measures used by other companies. Reconciliations and descriptions of all non-GAAP financial measures are set forth in the disclosures below.
Reconciliations to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measures for the following forward-looking non-GAAP financial measures for the first quarter and full fiscal year of 2023 have not been provided, including but not limited to: FOCF, adjusted operating income, adjusted net income, adjusted ETR and primary working capital. The most comparable GAAP financial measures are net cash flow from operating activities, operating income, net income attributable to Kennametal, ETR and working capital (defined as current assets less current liabilities), respectively. Primary working capital is defined as accounts receivable, net plus inventories, net minus accounts payable. Because the non-GAAP financial measures on a forward-looking basis are subject to uncertainty and variability as they are dependent on many factors - including, but not limited to, the effect of foreign currency exchange fluctuations, impacts from potential acquisitions or divestitures, gains or losses on the potential sale of businesses or other assets, restructuring costs, asset impairment charges, gains or losses from early extinguishment of debt, the tax impact of the items above and the impact of tax law changes or other tax matters - reconciliations to the most directly comparable forward-looking GAAP financial measures are not available without unreasonable effort.
Free Operating Cash Flow (FOCF)
FOCF is a non-GAAP financial measure and is defined by the Company as cash provided by operations (which is the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure) less capital expenditures plus proceeds from disposals of fixed assets. Management considers FOCF to be an important indicator of the Company's cash generating capability because it better represents cash generated from operations that can be used for dividends, debt repayment, strategic initiatives (such as acquisitions) and other investing and financing activities.
Organic Sales Growth
Organic sales growth is a non-GAAP financial measure of sales growth (which is the most directly comparable GAAP measure) excluding the impacts of acquisitions, divestitures, business days and foreign currency exchange from year-over-year comparisons. Management believes this measure provides investors with a supplemental understanding of underlying sales trends by providing sales growth on a consistent basis. Management reports organic sales growth at the consolidated and segment levels.
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SOURCE Kennametal Inc. | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/08/01/kennametal-reports-fiscal-2022-fourth-quarter-results/ | 2022-08-01T21:39:12Z |
Florida wildlife officials say some manatee food growing
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (AP) — Wildlife officials working to prevent threatened Florida manatees from starving to death say they’re encouraged that some of the marine mammals’ favorite food is growing naturally in a key area.
Seagrasses have been found growing recently in small areas of the Indian River Lagoon along Florida’s east coast where chronic pollution has wiped out much of it, officials said on a Wednesday conference call.
“We take it as a positive there is seagrass growing, “said Ron Mezich of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. “What that means long-term, we have no idea.”
The lack of seagrass forage during winter months has triggered an unprecedented die-off of manatees, including a record of more than 1,100 last year. The deaths recorded so far in 2022 are at 551, according to commission statistics.
The FWC and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in March completed an experimental program that fed manatees more than 202,000 pounds (91,600 kilograms) of donated lettuce near a power plant where the animals gather during colder months. Officials say a similar program is in the works for the coming winter.
“We aren’t ruling out other locations,” Mezich said.
As of Wednesday, FWC officials said there were 92 rescued manatees being treated at rehabilitation centers around the country — most of them in Florida including critical care facilities at SeaWorld in Orlando and the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens.
Jon Wallace of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service said the new seagrass growth is positive but the plants could easily be wiped out by a sunlight-choking summer algae bloom. Fully restoring seagrass and improving water quality will take years, he added.
“It is just going to be a long process,” Wallace said.
People interested in assisting the manatee program can donate to a FWC-affiliated organization. Distressed manatees can be reported by calling a hotline at 888-404-FWCC (888-404-3922).
There are only an estimated 7,520 of the animals in the wild today, according to the state wildlife commission.
Manatees are gentle round-tailed giants, sometimes known as sea cows, and weigh as much as 1,200 pounds (550 kilograms) and live as long as 65 years or so. Manatees are also Florida’s official state marine mammal.
Copyright 2022 WWSB. All rights reserved. | https://www.mysuncoast.com/2022/05/25/florida-wildlife-officials-say-some-manatee-food-growing/ | 2022-05-25T19:06:40Z |
Kyle Busch deserved better than two failed Toyota engines in the first round of NASCAR’s playoffs.
But at least Busch knows what happened to end his night at Bristol Motor Speedway and leave him “flabbergasted” at being eliminated from the playoff field.
Martin Truex Jr.? He could only laugh as he stood in the garage alongside his disabled car as fellow Toyota driver Bubba Wallace came in for repairs.
“There’s another one,” he said with a smirk. Truex also referred back to Kevin Harvick’s words after his car caught fire in the opening playoff race at Darlington three weeks ago.
“What Harvick say?” Truex said of his own Saturday night issue. “Crappy parts.”
At least a dozen of the playoff drivers had some sort of problem with NASCAR’s new Next Gen car at Bristol, where the spec car that has leveled the playing field was exposed for myriad durability issues that have followed it in its entire debut season.
The Ford camp suffered a rash of blown tires, Toyota was plagued by power steering failures, drivers racing for the win were knocked from contention for any number of mechanical gremlins and passing was a most difficult task.
The 12 lead changes were the lowest in more than a dozen years at Bristol, and only four of those passes were under green.
“Just difficult to pass,” Harvick said. “The car is way too fast through the corners. Can’t race.”
Harvick was in position to contend for the victory until a wheel fell off his Ford during the final round of pit stops and knocked him from the playoffs.
Now there’s a new round of questions surrounding the Next Gen, an industry-wide project to develop a car of single-source parts that both contained costs and helped small teams close the gap on the powerhouse NASCAR organizations. It’s worked, as Chris Buescher on Saturday night became the record-tying 19th different Cup winner this season.
Buescher’s win marked the first time since this version of NASCAR’s playoffs were established that drivers not competing for the title swept the entire round. Erik Jones won at Darlington and Wallace at Kansas; neither is a playoff driver, nor is Buescher, who scored his second career victory in his 250th career start.
But Buescher won by stretching his final two-tire pit stop the last 61 laps of the 500-mile race, as a lack of tire wear (except for that rash of blown right fronts on the Fords) kept runner-up Chase Elliott on four new tires comfortably in his rearview mirror.
The Next Gen has been questioned over safety concerns since rumors of disastrous crash tests during the development phase, and those issues have only ratcheted since July when a crash in qualifying gave Kurt Busch a concussion that has kept him out of competition for nearly two months. Other drivers have reported they are feeling the force of impact during crashes far worse than ever before, and a spate of fires at Darlington led NASCAR to make a series of rules changes.
Now there’s a fresh batch of complaints following Bristol, where Harvick, Kyle Busch and Richard Childress Racing teammates Austin Dillon and Tyler Reddick were eliminated from the playoff field.
“We need NextGen 2.0. Just gotta figure out who’s gonna pay for it,” Denny Hamlin tweeted. Hamlin is part-owner of the 23XI Racing team that has been without Kurt Busch for nine races.
“Passing was just impossible,” Hamlin said after the race. He, too, had a blown tire at Bristol but felt the difficulty in passing was the larger problem.
“I would like to see the racing improve overall. Some lap time variation a little bit. We’re just running around there and it’s like we’re running faster in the corners than we are on the straightaways,” Hamlin said. “We had some steering issues, and it looks like our Toyota teammates also had steering issues.”
Yes, all six Toyotas had a problem, ranging from tires for Hamlin and Christopher Bell, steering issues for Truex, Wallace and Ty Gibbs, and Kyle Busch’s engine failure.
And it was a mixed night for Brad Keselowski, who won the first stage of the race for his first stage victory of the season and seemed in position to race for his first win of the season. Keselowski moved from Team Penske to RFK Racing this season to drive with an ownership stake in Jack Roush’s team, and he desperately wanted to give RFK its first win.
But then his tire blew while leading with 87 laps remaining and Keselowski’s trip to victory lane was to congratulate teammate Buescher. He acknowledged passing was tricky — but said it isn’t supposed to be easy — and said NASCAR must continue to work on the Next Gen.
“Would I like to see us continue to work on the cars? Absolutely. I’ve said this to NASCAR and I’ve said it to the media before and I’ll say it again: ‘If the Next-Gen car looks the same as it does this year, then we’ve failed,’” Keselowski said. “We should continue to grow. We should continue to learn. We should continue to make it better. There’s probably some car owners that don’t want to hear it because it costs money to change the cars.
“There’s the ‘everything is wrong with this car’ camp and there’s the ‘nothing is wrong with this car’ camp,” Keselowski added. “I’d like to keep working on it. It seems like much, like many things today, that polarization means there’s no room for middle ground. In my eyes, I’d like to see some small tweaks, but I’m thankful and proud of our sport and where the Next Gen car has taken us so far.”
___
More AP auto racing: https://apnews.com/hub/auto-racing and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports | https://cw33.com/sports/ap-sports/ap-nascar-faces-more-questions-about-new-car-after-bristol-bash/ | 2022-09-18T22:50:33Z |
YAVNE, Israel, Aug. 30, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- G. Willi-Food International Ltd. (NASDAQ: WILC) (TASE: WILF) (the "Company" or "Willi-Food"), a global company that specializes in the development, marketing and international distribution of kosher foods, today announced that the Company's Board of Directors has declared a cash dividend distribution of approximately NIS 1.44 per ordinary share and an aggregate dividend of NIS 20 million (approximately US$0.43 and US$6,060,606, respectively, based on representative rate of exchange as of August 30, 2022).
The dividend is payable to shareholders of record as of the close of business on September 13, 2022 and will be payable on September 21, 2022. For shareholders who will receive the dividend payment in US dollars, the amount of the dividend per share is not final and is subject to change due to the need to convert the amount from NIS to US dollars in accordance with the Bank of Israel's representative rate of exchange on August 30, 2022. The final dividend amount is also subject to change based on the number of ordinary shares outstanding on the record date.
About G. Willi-Food International Ltd.
G. Willi-Food International Ltd. (http://www.willi-food.com) is an Israeli-based company specializing in high-quality, great-tasting kosher food products. Willi-Food is engaged directly and through its subsidiaries in the design, import, marketing and distribution of over 600 food products worldwide. As one of Israel's leading food importers, Willi-Food markets and sells its food products to over 1,500 customers and 3,000 selling points in Israel and around the world, including large retail and private supermarket chains, wholesalers and institutional consumers. The Company's operating divisions include Willi-Food in Israel and Euro European Dairies, a wholly owned subsidiary that designs, develops and distributes branded kosher, dairy-food products.
FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENT
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 relating to future events or our future performance, such as statements regarding trends, demand for our products and expected sales, operating results, and earnings. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause our actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, levels of activity, performance or achievements expressed or implied in those forward-looking statements. These risks and other factors include but are not limited to: war in Ukraine, the COVID-19 pandemic, disruptions to international commercial shipping and disruptions in commodity pricing monetary risks including changes in marketable securities or changes in currency exchange rates- especially the NIS/U.S. Dollar exchange rate, payment default by any of our major clients, the loss of one of more of our key personnel, changes in laws and regulations, including those relating to the food distribution industry, and inability to meet and maintain regulatory qualifications and approvals for our products, termination of arrangements with our suppliers, loss of one or more of our principal clients, increase or decrease in global purchase prices of food products, increasing levels of competition in Israel and other markets in which we do business, changes in economic conditions in Israel, including in particular economic conditions in the Company's core markets, our inability to accurately predict consumption of our products and changes in consumer preferences, our inability to protect our intellectual property rights, our inability to successfully integrate our recent acquisitions, insurance coverage not sufficient enough to cover losses of product liability claims, and risks associated with product liability claims. We cannot guarantee future results, levels of activity, performance or achievements. The matters discussed in this press release also involve risks and uncertainties summarized under the heading "Risk Factors" in the Company's Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2021, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 15, 2022. These factors are updated from time to time through the filing of reports and registration statements with the Securities and Exchange Commission. We do not assume any obligation to update the forward-looking information contained in this press release.
Company Contact:
G. Willi - Food International Ltd.
Yitschak Barabi, Chief Financial Officer
(+972) 8-932-1000
itsik.b@willi-food.co.il
Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/959267/G_Willi_Food_International_Logo.jpg
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SOURCE G. Willi-Food International Ltd. | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/08/30/g-willi-food-international-announces-distribution-6-million-dividend/ | 2022-08-30T21:43:32Z |
(KTLA) — They can’t all be winners, right?
As McDonald’s brings back some of its older menu items, such as the Cheese Danish and McRib, the Golden Arches have also had their fair share of McFails over the years.
Here they are, in no particular order:
Mighty Wings
McDonald’s introduced chicken wings to its menu to celebrate the NFL season in 2013. The company enlisted the help of football players Joe Flacco, Colin Kaepernick and Victor Cruz to promote them.
“Mighty Wings were inspired by larger size chicken wings from McDonald’s Hong Kong where customers enjoyed the big, bold flavor,” McDonald’s said in a news release.
The wings, however, didn’t fly. Some customers called them “too spicy, expensive and unappetizing,” according to Business Insider.
McHot Dog
McDonald’s introduced the McHot Dog in 1995 at certain locations. Customers weren’t so hot on them, and they were later removed from menus in the U.S.
The late McDonald’s founder, Ray Kroc, vowed that his restaurants would never sell hot dogs, so maybe they were doomed from the start.
“There’s a damned good reason we should never have hot dogs. There’s no telling what’s inside a hot dog’s skin, and our standard of quality just wouldn’t permit that kind of item,” Kroc said in his autobiography, “Grinding It Out: The Making of McDonald’s”
The McHot Dog got a second chance at success in Japan as locations added it to their breakfast menus.
McPizza
The McPizza was introduced in 1989 as McDonald’s attempted to include a product that could compete with the likes of Pizza Hut and Domino’s, according to Mashed. It didn’t.
McSpaghetti
McDonald’s first tried its hand at Italian food with McSpaghetti in the late 1970s to give customers various food options besides burgers. Nope.
Hula Burger
Even though McDonald’s specializes in burgers, the introduction of the Hula Burger wasn’t so special. The burger combined pineapple and cheese to cater to Catholics who didn’t eat meat on Fridays during Lent. Those customers opted to get the Filet-O-Fish instead.
McLean Deluxe
The restaurant also introduced a diet-ish burger to cater to healthy eaters in 1991. The McLean Deluxe was marketed to be “91% fat-free and infused with water and seaweed extract” to make up for less fat, according to Business Insider. It was eventually McCanceled.
McLobster
Canadian McDonald’s chains introduced the McLobster in 2013. Restaurants promised to provide “100% fresh Atlantic lobster” for $7. Customers and their stomachs didn’t respond well to this item.
Salad Shakers
In another attempt to include healthy food options, McDonald’s introduced Salad Shakers in 2000. It came in three options: Chef, Grilled Chicken Caesar and Garden, according to mcdonalds.fandom.com. While the product wasn’t a terrible idea, people just didn’t buy them.
Big N’ Tasty
The Big N’ Tasty was supposed to compete with Burger King’s Whopper, but it never took hold. The item joined the great flame boiler in the sky in 2010.
Onion Nuggets
Believe it or not, just before McDonald’s introduced its enduring Chicken McNuggets, it rolled out Onion Nuggets in 1975. They had a relatively good run — nine years before they were discontinued in 1984. | https://cw33.com/news/nexstar-media-wire/mcfails-a-look-back-at-mcdonalds-menu-items-that-didnt-last/ | 2022-09-11T00:20:21Z |
- If authorized, Novavax' vaccine would be the first protein-based COVID-19 booster for adults
- If authorized, the Novavax COVID-19 Vaccine, Adjuvanted could be used as a booster dose for adults aged 18 and older vaccinated with any other currently available COVID-19 vaccine
GAITHERSBURG, Md., Aug. 15, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Novavax, Inc. (Nasdaq: NVAX), a biotechnology company dedicated to developing and commercializing next-generation vaccines for serious infectious diseases, today announced that it submitted an application to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) of its protein-based COVID-19 Vaccine, Adjuvanted for active immunization to prevent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) as a homologous and heterologous booster in adults aged 18 and older.
"It's important for people to have a choice as they evaluate how to stay protected against COVID-19, and boosters are an invaluable tool to build upon immunity obtained from previous vaccinations," said Stanley C. Erck, President and Chief Executive Officer, Novavax. "Based on the data presented to the FDA's VRBPAC and the CDC ACIP, we believe our vaccine offers a broad, long-lasting immune response against a range of variants."
This application for EUA is supported by data from Novavax' Phase 3 PREVENT-19 trial conducted in the United States and Mexico, and from the UK-sponsored COV-BOOST Phase 2 trial. As part of an open-label booster phase of the PREVENT-19 trial, a single booster dose of the Novavax COVID-19 Vaccine, Adjuvanted was administered to healthy adult participants at least six months after their primary two-dose vaccination series of the Novavax COVID-19 Vaccine, Adjuvanted. The third dose produced robust antibody responses comparable to or exceeding levels associated with the efficacy data in the primary series Phase 3 clinical trials. In the COV-BOOST trial, the Novavax COVID-19 Vaccine, Adjuvanted induced a significant antibody response when used as a heterologous third booster dose.
In the PREVENT-19 trial, following the booster, local and systemic reactions had a median duration of approximately two days. Safety reporting of reactogenicity events showed an increasing incidence across all three doses of the Novavax COVID-19 Vaccine, Adjuvanted, reflecting the increased immunogenicity seen with a third dose. Medically attended adverse events, potentially immune-mediated medical conditions, and severe adverse events occurred infrequently following the booster dose.
In the U.S., the FDA granted EUA, followed by a positive recommendation from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), and endorsement from the CDC for a two-dose primary series in adults aged 18 and older in July. Doses of the Novavax COVID-19 Vaccine, Adjuvanted have been available for use in the U.S. since July.
This project has been supported in part with federal funds from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS); the Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response; Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA), through the Department of Defense Joint Program Executive Office for Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear Defense (JPEO-CBRND) under contract number MCDC2011-001.
Use of the Novavax COVID-19 Vaccine, Adjuvanted in the U.S.
The Novavax COVID-19 Vaccine, Adjuvanted has not been approved or licensed by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), but has been authorized for emergency use by FDA, under an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) to provide a two-dose primary series to individuals 18 years of age and older to prevent Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19).
The emergency use of this product is only authorized for the duration of the declaration that circumstances exist justifying the authorization of emergency use of the medical product under Section 564(b)(1) of the FD&C Act unless the declaration is terminated or authorization revoked sooner.
Authorized Use
The Novavax COVID-19 Vaccine, Adjuvanted is authorized for use under an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) to provide a two-dose primary series for active immunization to prevent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in individuals 18 years of age and older.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
Contraindications
Do not administer the Novavax COVID-19 Vaccine, Adjuvanted to individuals with a known history of a severe allergic reaction (e.g., anaphylaxis) to any component of the Novavax COVID-19 Vaccine, Adjuvanted.
Warnings and Precautions
Management of Acute Allergic Reactions: Appropriate medical treatment to manage immediate allergic reactions must be immediately available in the event an acute anaphylactic reaction occurs following administration of the Novavax COVID-19 Vaccine, Adjuvanted. Monitor the Novavax COVID-19 Vaccine, Adjuvanted recipients for the occurrence of immediate adverse reactions according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and Prevention guidelines.
Myocarditis and Pericarditis: Clinical trials data provide evidence for increased risks of myocarditis and pericarditis following administration of the Novavax COVID-19 Vaccine, Adjuvanted (see Full EUA Prescribing Information).
Syncope (fainting): May occur in association with administration of injectable vaccines. Procedures should be in place to avoid injury from fainting.
Altered Immunocompetence: Immunocompromised persons, including individuals receiving immunosuppressant therapy, may have a diminished immune response to the Novavax COVID-19 Vaccine, Adjuvanted.
Limitations of Vaccine Effectiveness: The Novavax COVID-19 Vaccine, Adjuvanted may not protect all vaccine recipients.
Adverse Reactions
Adverse reactions reported in clinical trials following administration of the Novavax COVID-19 Vaccine, Adjuvanted include injection site pain/tenderness, fatigue/malaise, muscle pain, headache, joint pain, nausea/vomiting, injection site redness, injection site swelling, fever, chills, injection site pruritus, hypersensitivity reactions, lymphadenopathy-related reactions, myocarditis, and pericarditis.
Myocarditis, pericarditis, and anaphylaxis have been reported following administration of the Novavax COVID-19 Vaccine, Adjuvanted outside of clinical trials.
Additional adverse reactions, some of which may be serious, may become apparent with more widespread use of the Novavax COVID-19 Vaccine, Adjuvanted.
Reporting Adverse Events and Vaccine Administration Errors
The vaccination provider enrolled in the federal COVID-19 Vaccination Program is responsible for mandatory reporting of the following to the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS):
- vaccine administration errors whether or not associated with an adverse event,
- serious adverse events (irrespective of attribution to vaccination),
- cases of Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome (MIS), and
- cases of COVID-19 that results in hospitalization or death.
Complete and submit reports to VAERS online: https://vaers.hhs.gov/reportevent.html. For further assistance with reporting to VAERS, call 1-800-822-7967. The reports should include the words "Novavax COVID-19 Vaccine, Adjuvanted EUA" in the description section of the report.
To the extent feasible, report adverse events to Novavax, Inc. using the following contact information or by providing a copy of the VAERS form to Novavax, Inc. Website: www.NovavaxMedInfo.com, Fax Number: 1-888-988-8809, Telephone Number: 1-844-NOVAVAX (1-844-668-2829).
Please click to see the Novavax COVID-19 Vaccine, Adjuvanted Fact Sheet for Healthcare Providers Administering Vaccine (Vaccine Providers) and EUA Full Prescribing Information.
About the Novavax COVID-19 Vaccine, Adjuvanted (NVX-CoV2373)
The Novavax COVID-19 Vaccine, Adjuvanted is a protein-based vaccine engineered from the genetic sequence of the first strain of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19 disease. The vaccine was created using Novavax' recombinant nanoparticle technology to generate antigen derived from the coronavirus spike (S) protein and is formulated with Novavax' patented saponin-based Matrix-M™ adjuvant to enhance the immune response and stimulate high levels of neutralizing antibodies. The Novavax COVID-19 Vaccine, Adjuvanted contains purified protein antigen and can neither replicate, nor can it cause COVID-19.
The Novavax COVID-19 Vaccine, Adjuvanted is packaged as a ready-to-use liquid formulation in a vial containing ten doses. The vaccination regimen calls for two 0.5 ml doses (5 mcg antigen and 50 mcg Matrix-M adjuvant) given intramuscularly 21 days apart. The vaccine is stored at 2°- 8° Celsius, enabling the use of existing vaccine supply and cold chain channels. Use of the vaccine should be in accordance with official recommendations.
The PREVENT-19 trial is being conducted with support from the U.S. government, including the Department of Defense, BARDA, part of the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response at the HHS, and the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, part of the National Institutes of Health at HHS. BARDA is providing up to $1.75 billion under a Department of Defense agreement (number MCDC2011-001). JPEO-CBRND is also providing funding of up to $45.7 million under a separate agreement. To date, the U.S. government has agreed to order 3.2 million doses of the Novavax COVID-19 Vaccine, Adjuvanted. Novavax and the U.S. government will determine the timing, pricing, and amounts for delivery of any additional doses. Novavax intends to pursue additional U.S. procurement of both the Novavax COVID-19 Vaccine, Adjuvanted doses and other potential formulations.
Novavax has established partnerships for the manufacture, commercialization, and distribution of the Novavax COVID-19 Vaccine, Adjuvanted worldwide. Existing authorizations leverage Novavax' manufacturing partnership with Serum Institute of India, the world's largest vaccine manufacturer by volume. They will later be supplemented with data from additional manufacturing sites throughout Novavax' global supply chain.
About Matrix-M™ Adjuvant
Novavax' patented saponin-based Matrix-M adjuvant has demonstrated a potent and well-tolerated effect by stimulating the entry of antigen-presenting cells into the injection site and enhancing antigen presentation in local lymph nodes, boosting immune response.
About Novavax
Novavax, Inc. (Nasdaq: NVAX) is a biotechnology company that promotes improved health globally through the discovery, development, and commercialization of innovative vaccines to prevent serious infectious diseases. The company's proprietary recombinant technology platform harnesses the power and speed of genetic engineering to efficiently produce highly immunogenic nanoparticles designed to address urgent global health needs. The Novavax COVID-19 Vaccine, Adjuvanted, the company's COVID-19 vaccine, has received authorization from multiple regulatory authorities globally, including in the U.S., European Union and with the World Health Organization. The vaccine is currently under review by multiple regulatory agencies worldwide, including for additional indications and populations such as adolescents and as a booster. In addition to its COVID-19 vaccine, Novavax is also currently evaluating a COVID-seasonal influenza combination vaccine candidate in a Phase 1/2 clinical trial, which combines the Novavax COVID-19 Vaccine, Adjuvanted and NanoFlu*, its quadrivalent influenza investigational vaccine candidate, and is also evaluating an Omicron strain-based vaccine (NVX-CoV2515) as well as a bivalent format Omicron-based / original strain-based vaccine. These vaccine candidates incorporate Novavax' proprietary saponin-based Matrix-M adjuvant to enhance the immune response and stimulate high levels of neutralizing antibodies.
For more information, visit www.novavax.com and connect with us on LinkedIn.
*NanoFlu identifies a recombinant hemagglutinin (HA) protein nanoparticle influenza vaccine candidate produced by Novavax. This investigational candidate was evaluated during a controlled phase 3 trial conducted during the 2019-2020 influenza season.
Forward-Looking Statements
Statements herein relating to the future of Novavax, its operating plans and prospects, its partnerships, the potential for subsequent orders from the U.S. government for additional doses of NVX-CoV2373 and other potential formulations, the timing of clinical trial results, the ongoing development of NVX-CoV2373, NVX-CoV2515, a bivalent vaccine candidate and a COVID-seasonal influenza investigational combination vaccine candidate, the scope, timing and outcome of future regulatory filings and actions, including potential recommendations and authorizations from the CDC, Novavax' plans to supplement existing authorizations with data from the additional manufacturing sites in Novavax' global supply chain, additional worldwide authorizations of NVX-CoV2373 for use in adults and adolescents, and as a booster, the evolving COVID-19 pandemic, the potential impact and reach of Novavax and NVX-CoV2373 in addressing vaccine access, controlling the pandemic and protecting populations, the efficacy, safety, intended utilization, and expected administration of NVX-CoV2373 and Novavax' other vaccine candidates are forward-looking statements. Novavax cautions that these forward-looking statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such statements. These risks and uncertainties include, without limitation, challenges satisfying, alone or together with partners, various safety, efficacy, and product characterization requirements, including those related to process qualification and assay validation, necessary to satisfy applicable regulatory authorities; unanticipated challenges or delays in conducting clinical trials; difficulty obtaining scarce raw materials and supplies; resource constraints, including human capital and manufacturing capacity, on the ability of Novavax to pursue planned regulatory pathways; challenges meeting contractual requirements under agreements with multiple commercial, governmental, and other entities; and those other risk factors identified in the "Risk Factors" and "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" sections of Novavax' Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2021 and subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). We caution investors not to place considerable reliance on forward-looking statements contained in this press release. You are encouraged to read our filings with the SEC, available at www.sec.gov and www.novavax.com, for a discussion of these and other risks and uncertainties. The forward-looking statements in this press release speak only as of the date of this document, and we undertake no obligation to update or revise any of the statements. Our business is subject to substantial risks and uncertainties, including those referenced above. Investors, potential investors, and others should give careful consideration to these risks and uncertainties.
Contacts:
Investors Erika Schultz | 240-268-2022
ir@novavax.com
Media Ali Chartan or Giovanna Chandler | 202-709-5563
media@novavax.com
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SOURCE Novavax, Inc. | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/08/15/novavax-submits-application-us-fda-emergency-use-authorization-novavax-covid-19-vaccine-adjuvanted-booster-adults-aged-18-older/ | 2022-08-15T12:51:27Z |
KYIV, Ukraine and SAGUENAY, QC, June 10, 2022 /PRNewswire/ - The National Joint Stock Company "Naftogaz of Ukraine" has entered into an agreement with the Canadian energy developer Symbio Infrastructure ("Symbio") to purchase liquefied natural gas (LNG) and green liquid hydrogen (LH2) from Quebec, Canada.
"This agreement is an important milestone on Ukraine's path of transitioning to diverse supplies of energy from around the globe, which we began at the end of 2014, when we stopped the direct import of Russian natural gas. Since then, we've fortified our energy independence by being an active player in the European energy market. We believe opportunities for procuring reliable, responsibly produced long-term energy supply from allies like Canada – and from Symbio's facilities – by 2027 is critical to our energy security, transition and future economic prosperity," said Yuriy Vitrenko, CEO of Naftogaz Ukraine.
Jim Illich, Founder and Chairman of Symbio Infrastructure, said: "Energy from Symbio's innovative, net-zero, hydropower-driven infrastructure will provide competitive energy to Ukraine and will significantly reduce global GHG emissions by displacing higher emission energy sources used in Europe, such as coal, heavy fuel oil, and higher carbon intensity sources of natural gas and LNG."
The parties signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on June 5 in Washington, D.C. The parties intend that the LNG and LH2 will be delivered to an import terminal in a mutually agreed European transit country. Symbio will supply the world's lowest carbon LNG to Europe thanks to Canada's stringent regulatory standards for natural gas production and the innovative use of renewable hydroelectricity to power its facilities.
This MoU advances the stated ambition of the Canadian government, which has publicly confirmed its strong interest in helping Europe address its energy crisis and need for LNG supply diversification by fast-tracking relevant approvals to export natural gas from eastern Canada to Europe through ultra-low emissions LNG export facilities with the capability to export hydrogen in the future.
Naftogaz is the largest state-owned company in Ukraine, engaged in a full cycle of field exploration and development, production and exploration drilling, storage of oil and gas, processing and distribution of oil products, natural gas and liquefied gas to consumers. Naftogaz is committed to future generations, which is why one of its strategic goals is to build up "green" energy assets to enable the energy transformation of Naftogaz and de-carbonisation of the Ukrainian economy.
Symbio, through its subsidiary GNL Québec, is developing Énergie Saguenay, the world's first large-scale, carbon-neutral liquefied natural gas (LNG) export facility in Quebec, Canada. The industry benchmark-setting facility will liquefy and export 10.5 million tons or 15 billion cubic metres (bcm)/year of clean LNG to Europe (roughly 17 % of Germany´s annual gas consumption or about half of Ukraine's consumption) at competitive prices due to its short shipping distance to Europe and cost efficiencies gained from Canada's cold climate.
Symbio will help diversify European energy supply and contribute Europe's energy transition by building future-proof, net zero, energy infrastructure, producing LNG and becoming one of the world's largest green liquid H2 exporters. Pending the expedience of regulatory authorizations, Symbio's projects are scheduled to commence operations in 2027.
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SOURCE Symbio Infrastructure | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/06/10/naftogaz-symbio-infrastructure-agree-deliveries-low-carbon-canadian-lng-green-hydrogen-ukraine/ | 2022-06-10T20:45:25Z |
STAMFORD, Conn., June 2, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Charter Communications, Inc. (NASDAQ: CHTR) (along with its subsidiaries, "Charter") today announced that its subsidiary, Charter Communications Operating, LLC ("CCO"), entered into an amendment (the "Amendment") to CCO's Credit Agreement on May 26, 2022 to: (i) convert all of CCO's Term A-4 Loans to Term A-5 Loans, (ii) borrow $2.85 billion additional Term A-5 Loans and extend the maturity of the Term A-5 Loans to August 31, 2027, (iii) create and borrow a new tranche of $500 million of Term A-6 Loans maturing August 31, 2028, (iv) increase the size of CCO's revolving credit facility, change the interest rate benchmark from LIBOR to SOFR, and extend the maturity date to August 31, 2027 and (v) make certain other amendments to the Credit Agreement.
Charter used a portion of the proceeds from the Amendment to repay all of the Term A-2 Loans, the Term A-4 Loans and all Revolving Loans outstanding prior to the effective date of the Amendment. After giving effect to the Amendment: (i) the aggregate principal amount of Term A-5 Loans outstanding is $6.05 billion with a pricing of SOFR plus 1.25%, (ii) the aggregate principal amount of Term A-6 Loans outstanding is $500 million with a pricing of SOFR plus 1.50% and (iii) the aggregate amount of the revolving credit facility increased by $750 million to a total capacity of $5.5 billion with a pricing of SOFR plus 1.25%. The aggregate principal amount of Term B-1 Loans (maturing April 30, 2025) and Term B-2 Loans (maturing February 1, 2027) outstanding are $2.4 billion and $3.7 billion, respectively, with LIBOR-based pricing unchanged.
About Charter
Charter Communications, Inc. (NASDAQ:CHTR) is a leading broadband connectivity company and cable operator serving more than 32 million customers in 41 states through its Spectrum brand. Over an advanced communications network, the company offers a full range of state-of-the-art residential and business services including Spectrum Internet®, TV, Mobile and Voice.
For small and medium-sized companies, Spectrum Business® delivers the same suite of broadband products and services coupled with special features and applications to enhance productivity, while for larger businesses and government entities, Spectrum Enterprise provides highly customized, fiber-based solutions. Spectrum Reach® delivers tailored advertising and production for the modern media landscape. The company also distributes award-winning news coverage, sports and high-quality original programming to its customers through Spectrum Networks and Spectrum Originals. More information about Charter can be found at corporate.charter.com.
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SOURCE Charter Communications, Inc. | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/06/02/charter-extends-maturities-increases-certain-its-credit-facilities/ | 2022-06-02T20:32:00Z |
WASHINGTON (AP) — Ten years ago, the Texas Republican Party used its platform to oppose teaching critical thinking in schools. In 2014, it declared homosexuality a chosen behavior contrary to God and endorsed “reparative therapy” to reverse it. By 2020, the party was ready to remind the world that “Texas retains the right to secede from the United States.”
But now the GOP platform in the country’s largest red state — long an ideological wish list that even the most conservative Texans knew was mostly filled with pipe dreams that would never become policy — has broken new ground in its push to the far right.
Approved by 5,000-plus party delegates last weekend in Houston during the party’s biennial convention, the new platform brands President Joe Biden an “acting” commander-in-chief who was never “legitimately elected.”
It may not matter who the president is, though, since the platform takes previous language about secession much farther — urging the Republican-controlled legislature to put the question of leaving the United States to voters next year.
The platform also says homosexuality is “an abnormal lifestyle choice” and rejects bipartisan legislation in Congress seeking to raise the minimum age to buy assault weapons from 18 to 21, saying Texans under 21 are “most likely to be victims of violent crime and thus most likely to need to defend themselves.”
Though non-binding, the platform illustrates just how far Texas Republicans have moved to the right in the past decade — from championing tea party ideals in 2012 to endorsing former President Donald Trump’s continued lies about nonexistent widespread fraud costing him an election he actually lost by more than 7 million votes.
“The platform reflects the direction that party activists believe the party should take,” said Matt Mackowiak, a Republican strategist based in the Texas capital of Austin. He said that, rather than deciding elections or dictating legislative action, the platform is more relevant as a signal of “where primary voters are and what they care about.”
Mackowiak said items like considering succession won’t be taken seriously, but “Trump’s policy agenda is here to stay.” He said that, as the former president continues to question 2020 election results, he will continue to find a receptive audience in the Texas GOP.
“Are people really in doubt that Republicans have concerns about how the election was conducted?” Mackowiak asked.
Matt Rinaldi, a former state lawmaker who now chairs the Texas GOP, said state Republicans “rightly have no faith in the 2020 election results and we don’t care how many times the elites tell us we have to.”
“We refuse to let Democrats rig the elections in 2022 or 2024,” Rinaldi said in a statement.
Democrats haven’t rigged anything. An Associated Press r eview of every potential case of voter fraud in the six battleground states disputed by Trump has found fewer than 475 — a number that would have made no difference in the 2020 presidential election.
Meanwhile, Texas’ 2020 election was a romp even by the standards of Republicans who have dominated the state for decades. The party’s candidates topped Democrats in key congressional and statehouse races as Trump easily carried its electoral votes.
But that didn’t stop the former president from praising the party’s 2022 platform, posting Tuesday: “Look at the “Great State of Texas and their powerful Republican Party Platform on the 2020 Presidential Election Fraud.”
“Such courage,” he wrote, “but that’s why Texas is Texas.”
Trump was cheering language declaring, “We reject the certified results of the 2020 presidential election, and we hold that acting President Joseph Robinette Biden Jr. was not legitimately elected.” That was a departure from as recently as 2014, when the Texas GOP platform questioned Barack Obama’s “commitment to citizens’ constitutional rights,” but at least recognized him as president.
This year’s platform also says that “Texas retains the right to secede from the United States, and the Texas Legislature should be called upon to pass a referendum consistent thereto.”
Ed Espinoza, executive director of the advocacy organization Progress Texas, said some of the adherence to open discriminatory language might have receded if not for the rise of Trump — who has demonstrated “he could double down on the crazy and not suffer a consequence yet.”
“Normally what happens is, when there’s crazy in a party, people try to soften it,” said Espinoza, former Western States Director of the Democratic National Committee. “In this case, they saw it worked for Trump so they think it’ll work for them.”
Texas was an independent republic for nearly a decade until 1845. With the coronavirus pandemic raging, the 2020 Texas Republican Party convention was held virtually and degenerated into a leadership struggle. But it also featured platform language declaring, “Texas retains the right to secede from the United States should a future president and congress change our political system from a constitutional republic to another system.”
That caveat about governmental system was dropped in the 2022 edition, which seeks a referendum for voters “to determine whether or not” their state “should reassert its status as an independent nation.”
Texas’ rightward push was clear in ways beyond the party platform. Delegates booed Republican Sen. John Cornyn — who has held his seat for 20 years and got more 2020 votes statewide than Trump did — for working on bipartisan legislation seeking to impose modest limits on guns. Those efforts began following last month’s mass shooting in the Texas town of Uvalde, which killed 19 elementary students and two teachers.
Still, such state convention outbursts also aren’t new. Republican Gov. Rick Perry was booed in 2012 for praising fellow GOPer and Lt. Gov. David Dewhurst, who was then locked in a primary battle for an open Senate seat with Ted Cruz. Some delegates also in the past walked out of a speech by then-Republican Texas House Speaker Joe Straus.
“It shows you how much QAnon may not be an outlier in the Republican Party,” Espinoza said. “Some people are very susceptible to conspiracy theory, and that appears to be a higher percentage the deeper you go into the Republican Party of Texas.” | https://cw33.com/news/politics/ap-politics/texas-gops-swing-to-far-right-cemented-with-party-platform/ | 2022-06-22T17:46:45Z |
Defense: Key government witness tried to extort R. Kelly
CHICAGO (AP) — Defense lawyers at R. Kelly’s child pornography trial in Chicago sought Wednesday to portray a key government witness as a liar and extortionist, contending the man first approached the R&B star in 2001 and demanded that Kelly pay $1 million or he’d go public with video that could put Kelly in serious legal peril.
Those assertions came during seven hours of often blistering cross-examination of Charles Freeman, a former merchandizing agent for Kelly who testified Tuesday that it was Kelly who first approached him, eventually offering Freeman $1 million to recover a VHS tape featuring Kelly.
“Your entire relationship with (Kelly) centered around stealing from him and lying to him,” lead Kelly attorney Jennifer Bonjean, raising her voice, told Freeman Wednesday. Minutes later, she added, “You were part of a shakedown scheme, right?” Freeman shot back, “No!” He also said, “I am not a thief.”
Federal prosecutors charged Kelly with production of child pornography based in part on that recording, which they say shows him sexually abusing a 14-year-old. He and co-defendant Derrel McDavid are also accused of successfully rigging Kelly’s 2008 state child pornography trial by threatening witnesses and concealing video evidence.
Freeman’s testimony at this trial helps buttress prosecutors’ claims that both Kelly and McDavid knew that videos Kelly had lost track of in the early 2000s were incriminating and could lead to his conviction at the 2008 trial.
McDavid’s lawyer, Beau Brindley, started the cross-examination Wednesday by pacing, waving grand jury transcripts at Freeman and several times telling the 52-year-old to “be quiet and listen” to his questions as he sought to tear down Freeman’s credibility.
“How many times have you told lies about videotapes connected to Robert Kelly?” Brindley asked, using Kelly’s full first name. “It’s multiple times right?”
Freeman agreed it was.
Freeman, who is testifying under an immunity agreement, also agreed when Brindley asked if it was difficult “to trust a person who lies … who will cheat and steal to get money.”
Kelly, 55, was handed a 30-year prison sentence by a federal judge in New York in June for convictions on racketeering and sex trafficking charges. If convicted in U.S. District Court in Chicago, he could see years added to that sentence.
Brindley also accused Freeman of lying when he testified that he found the video Kelly was looking for in Atlanta in 2001 and when he said he didn’t know its contents until he watched it later the same day. Brindley suggested Freeman never actually went to Atlanta and that he already possessed a potentially compromising video of Kelly, using it to extort Kelly.
“That’s how all this happened, isn’t it?” Brindley asked. Freeman said that wasn’t true.
Freeman said money wasn’t his only motivation for agreeing to hunt down the video, insisting he also wanted to help his friend, Kelly, whom he had known since around 1990.
Freeman conceded that he kept copies of videos for nearly 20 years. Not until a lawyer warned him in 2019 that police were poised to arrest Freeman for possession of child pornography did he finally turn them over to law enforcement, he testified.
After Freeman smiled as Brindley questioned him about holding onto child pornography for so long, Brindley asked: “Is this funny? Are you having a good time?” Freeman responded, “Yes, I am.”
“You aren’t upset with what you’ve done?” Brindley asked.
“I am not,” Freeman answered.
After acquitting Kelly in 2008, some jurors told reporters they had no choice because the girl — who then was in her 20s — did not take the witness stand to confirm it was her in the video that was at the heart of the state’s case. Last week, she testified at the federal trial in Chicago, saying she was the child in the video and Kelly was the adult man.
___
Follow Michael Tarm on Twitter at https://twitter.com/mtarm and find AP’s full coverage of the R. Kelly trial at https://apnews.com/hub/r-kelly.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | https://www.wibw.com/2022/08/24/defense-key-government-witness-tried-extort-r-kelly/ | 2022-08-24T23:19:17Z |
ANCHORAGE, Alaska (AP) — Authorities are searching for a grandmother whose 2-year-old grandchild was found alone and abandoned for two days in a locked car that was stuck in mud on a rural Alaska road.
The search for Mary Dawn Wilson, 69, is being concentrated around the community of Healy, Alaska State Troopers said in a statement. The abandoned Ford Focus was found Thursday on Stampede Road, just outside Healy and off the Parks Highway.
The child appeared to be in good health and was handed over to the state Office of Children’s Services, the statement said.
Officials said evidence in the car indicated that the child and car were abandoned Tuesday when the vehicle became stuck, troopers said. There were indications she tried to free the car, Alaska State Troopers spokesperson Tim DeSpain said.
Wilson was the last known person with the child, the statement said,
Troopers said it’s believed she started walking, but in the opposite direction from the highway. Various law enforcement agencies, search dogs and the Alaska Wilderness Search and Rescue organization are looking for her near where the vehicle stopped.
Healy is located about 10 miles (16 kilometers) north of Denali National Park and Preserve.
Stampede Road is famous for being the main thoroughfare that adventurers used to retrace the steps of Christopher McCandless, a young idealist whose journey on the Stampede Trail ended with his death.
The trail road eventually ends and opens up to treacherous Alaska backcountry, where McCandless took shelter in an abandoned city bus after he became trapped by the swollen Teklanika River.
He died of starvation in 1992 and his life and death were made famous by the book “Into the Wild” by Jon Krakauer and then by the movie directed by Sean Penn.
Over the years, people trying to reach the bus that was located about 25 miles (40 kilometers) from Healy to pay pilgrimage to McCandless had to be rescued themselves or died. That prompted state officials to remove the bus from the backcountry in 2020.
The bus is currently being prepared for permanent outdoor display at the University of Alaska Museum of the North in Fairbanks. People can watch a livestream of the work being performed on the bus. | https://cw33.com/news/u-s-news/ap-us-headlines/alaska-grandma-sought-after-child-abandoned-in-car-2-days/ | 2022-07-16T09:06:19Z |
TOKYO, July 22, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- KLab Inc., a leader in online mobile games, announced that its hit 3D action game Bleach: Brave Souls, currently available on smartphones, PC, and PlayStation 4, will celebrate its 7th anniversary on Saturday, July 23rd. See the original press release (https://www.klab.com/en/press/) for more details.
The Bleach: Brave Souls 7th Anniversary Campaign begins on the same day, Saturday, July 23rd. The campaign will have a Summons featuring special 7th anniversary designs, supervised by Tite Kubo, of Ichigo Kurosaki and Uryu Ishida, a chance for up to 100 free Summons, and much more.
There will also be plenty of great rewards during Brave Souls 7 Years 7 Campaigns so be sure not to miss out.
Brave Souls 7th Anniversary Character PV:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WD2rcQSqtg4
For details, please see the official website and in-app announcements.
Brave Souls 7th Anniversary Retweet Campaign
We are giving away prizes to 1,000 lucky winners in this retweet campaign to celebrate the 7th anniversary of Bleach: Brave Souls starting Saturday, July 23rd.
Simply follow and retweet the specified tweet from the Bleach: Brave Souls official Twitter account (@Bleachbrs_en) to get a response showing if you won.
1,000 people will be selected to get prizes like a Brave Souls Original Canvas Board, a Revolution Pro Controller 3, and more.
Download here:
App Store: https://itunes.apple.com/app/id1003168863
Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.klab.bleach
Steam: https://store.steampowered.com/app/1201240/BLEACH_Brave_Souls
PlayStation Store: https://store.playstation.com/concept/10002097
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SOURCE KLab Inc. | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/07/22/bleach-brave-souls-7th-anniversary-begins-saturday-july-23rd/ | 2022-07-22T13:12:21Z |
Work Remains to Ensure Final Rule Implements Law as Passed by Congress
WASHINGTON, May 5, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Three major medical associations are encouraged by the federal government's request for a "hold" on its appeal of a Texas federal court ruling vacating parts of the independent dispute resolution (IDR) process in the Surprise Billing Interim Final Rule. The government filed the last-minute appeal April 22, but later asked the court to hold its appeal pending federal agencies' release of the surprise billing final rule this summer. On May 3, 2022, the court granted the government's request to pause proceedings while the government issues a final rule.
The American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP), the American College of Radiology® (ACR®) and the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) call the hold a step in the right direction. The groups will work with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, other federal agencies, legal partners, and patient advocates to ensure the final rule complies with the text and spirit of the No Surprises Act and the Texas court ruling.
ACEP, ACR and ASA are pleased that the government is not wasting taxpayer resources to pursue its appeal of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas decision at this time. The court's opinion affirmed that the No Surprises Act did not provide the 'give-away' to insurers enabled by the dispute resolution process published in the Interim Final Rule.
ACEP, ACR and ASA filed suit in the U.S. Court for the Northern District of Illinois because the interim final rule's IDR process would enable insurers to raise profits by narrowing medical networks, which would deny patients their choice of providers and could delay diagnosis and treatment of illness and injury. The Illinois judge issued a stay in that case pending any government challenge to the Texas court ruling.
ACEP, ACR and ASA await the final rule and stand ready to proceed with the case if the federal government fails to adhere to the district court's order to create an IDR process in accordance with the No Surprises Act legislation. We urge the agencies to come together to implement the IDR process fairly, equitably, and consistently with the No Surprises Act.
The Illinois and Texas cases solely impact the IDR process to determine provider reimbursement for out-of-network care. Neither case affects the No Surprises Act patient protections against out-of-network medical bills. Neither case would raise patient out-of-pocket costs.
About the American College of Emergency Physicians
The American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP) is the national medical society representing emergency medicine. Through continuing education, research, public education, and advocacy, ACEP advances emergency care on behalf of its 40,000 emergency physician members, and the more than 150 million people they treat on an annual basis. For more information, visit www.acep.org and www.emergencyphysicians.org.
About the American College of Radiology
The American College of Radiology (ACR), founded in 1924, is a professional medical society dedicated to serving patients and society by empowering radiology professionals to advance the practice, science and professions of radiological care.
About the American Society of Anesthesiologists
Founded in 1905, the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) is an educational, research and scientific society with more than 55,000 members organized to raise and maintain the standards of the medical practice of anesthesiology. ASA is committed to ensuring physician anesthesiologists evaluate and supervise the medical care of patients before, during and after surgery to provide the highest quality and safest care every patient deserves.
For more information on the field of anesthesiology, visit the American Society of Anesthesiologists online at asahq.org. To learn more about the role physician anesthesiologists play in ensuring patient safety, visit asahq.org/madeforthismoment. Like ASA on Facebook and follow ASALifeline on Twitter.
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SOURCE American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP) | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/05/05/latest-twist-government-requests-texas-court-place-hold-its-surprise-billing-appeal/ | 2022-05-05T15:29:20Z |
Phil Mickelson withdrew Friday from the PGA Championship, electing to extend his hiatus from golf following incendiary comments he made about a Saudi-funded rival league he supports and the PGA Tour he accused of greed.
Mickelson authored one of the most stunning victories last year when he won the PGA at Kiawah Island, at age 50 becoming the oldest champion in 161 years of the majors.
Now, the popular phrase from a decade ago — “What will Phil do next?” — carries more intrigue than sheer excitement.
The PGA of America announcedhis decision on social media. The PGA Championship starts Thursday at Southern Hills Country Club in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
Mickelson has not played since Feb. 6 at the Saudi International, where he accused the PGA Tour of “obnoxious greed” in an interview with Golf Digest.
Two weeks later, in an excerpt from Alan Shipnuck’s unauthorized biography to be released next week, Mickelson revealed how he had been working behind the scenes to promote the rival league funded by the Public Investment Fund and run by Greg Norman.
Mickelson dismissed Saudi Arabia’s human rights atrocities, including the killing of Washington Post columnist Jamal Khashoggi, by saying it was worth it if it meant gaining leverage to get the changes he wanted on the PGA Tour.
Mickelson met the deadline to sign up for the PGA Championship on April 25, though his manager said it was more about keeping his options opened. He also entered the U.S. Open, and said he would ask for a conflicting event release to play the LIV Golf Invitational in London, the first of Norman’s $20 million tournaments.
The tour said earlier this week it would not grant any releases.
Mickelson is the first major champion not to defend his title since Rory McIlroy at St. Andrews in 2015 because of a knee injury from playing soccer.
He is only the third PGA champion not to defend his title in the last 75 years. Tiger Woods missed in 2008 while recovering from reconstructive knee surgery, and Ben Hogan couldn’t play in 1949 while recovering from his car getting struck by a bus.
Mickelson’s issues were self-inflicted.
“I personally think it’s an unbelievable mental challenge to come back and play after what he’s put himself through,” six-time major champion and CBS analyst Nick Faldo said on Wednesday. “I don’t think it’s as easy as just getting back on the bike and arriving at a golf tournament and playing. The attention is going to be monumental.”
Now the attention shifts to whether Mickelson will defy the tour by playing in London in three weeks, or if he would go to the U.S. Open, the only major he has never won.
His last time playing in America was at Torrey Pines on Jan. 28. He missed the cut.
Shipnuck’s book is scheduled to be released on Tuesday. Among the excerpts he already has published on his “Firepit Collective” site included Mickelson saying he recruited players to pay attorneys to write the operating agreement of a new league.
“We know they killed Khashoggi and have a horrible record on human rights. They execute people over there for being gay. Knowing all of this, why would I even consider it? Because this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to reshape how the PGA Tour operates,” Mickelson said.
He referred to the PGA Tour and Commissioner Jay Monahan as a “dictatorship.”
“I’m not sure I even want it to succeed,” he said of the Saudi league. “But just the idea of it is allowing us to get things done with the tour.”
Mickelson swiftly lost corporate sponsors such as KPMG and Amstel Light, while Workday said it would not be renewing its deal with him. Mickelson released a statement in which he described his comment as “reckless” and apologized for his choice of words.
Mickelson said in his statement he has felt pressure and stress affecting him at a deeper level over the last 10 years and he needs time away.
But he did not say if he would be taking a break from golf. He has not played since the Saudi International on Feb. 6. He is not playing this week. His statement in February concluded, “I know I have not been my best and desperately need some time away to prioritize the ones I love most and work on being the man I want to be.”
Mickelson was replaced in the field by former Masters champion Charl Schwartzel.
___
More AP golf: https://apnews.com/hub/golf and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports | https://cw33.com/sports/ap-sports/mickelson-decides-not-to-defend-title-at-pga-championship/ | 2022-05-14T17:43:51Z |
Multiple drug related arrests over holiday weekend in Topeka
TOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) - Two Topeka men are facing multiple drug charges after they were arrested during separate traffic stops over 4th of July weekend.
According to the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office, Dylan Gray, 23, and Alejandro Hernandez-Gonzales, 53, have both been booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia, and operating a vehicle without valid license and registration.
Dylan Gray was pulled over Friday July 1 shortly before 11:30 p.m. on the 300 block of South Kansas Ave after making an improper turn and driving without headlights. Officials say during the investigation, narcotics were located and Grey was placed under arrest.
Alejandro Hernandez-Gonzales was arrested Sunday July 3 following a traffic stop near NW Logan St. and NW Evelyn St. for driving with a fake license plate and failing to signal while turning. According to the Sheriff’s Office, it was discovered his paper license plate was not real and narcotics were also found in his vehicle.
These incidents are still under investigation.
Copyright 2022 WIBW. All rights reserved. | https://www.wibw.com/2022/07/05/multiple-drug-related-arrests-over-holiday-weekend-topeka/ | 2022-07-05T21:38:19Z |
KU QB Jalon Daniels wins Walter Camp National Player of the Week award
LAWRENCE, Kan. (KCTV) - Kansas football is back on the map. Following a 48-30 victory over Houston on Saturday, the Jayhawks are making national headlines.
Junior quarterback Jalon Daniels took home the Walter Camp National Offensive Player of the Week honors following a five-touchdown performance against the Cougars. Daniels passed for 158 yards and three touchdowns while adding 123 yards rushing and two touchdowns on the ground.
Daniels’ has registered a quarterback rating of 97.5 through three games of play, during which the Jayhawks have averaged 53 points per game, a mark that is third-best in the nation. That QBR rating for Daniels if maintained would be the best in a single-season in college football history.
The latest success for the Kansas program has set up an unusually intriguing matchup for Saturday, Sept. 24, when the Jayhawks host the Duke Blue Devils. The two perennial college basketball powerhouses are both 3-0 heading into the contest.
Kansas has not been favored by oddsmakers in a game against another power conference opponent since 2009, when KU was a 1.5-point favorite over Kansas State on Nov. 7, 2009. Early lines have Lance Leipold’s squad as an 8-point favorite over the Blue Devils.
The 3-0 start for Kansas also garnered them worthy of 23 votes in the Associated Press’ top 25 poll. That amount of votes essentially places them as the 34th ranked team in the country by voters.
Copyright 2022 KCTV. All rights reserved. | https://www.wibw.com/2022/09/18/ku-qb-jalon-daniels-wins-walter-camp-national-player-week-award/ | 2022-09-18T20:57:13Z |
SAN ANTONIO, Aug. 23, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- SWBC Mortgage Corporation announced today that Jim Collier has been appointed Chief Risk Officer (CRO). Collier brings over 25 years of experience in financial services and mortgage lending.
Most recently, he held the title of Chief Operating Officer for Ruoff Mortgage, which is the number one lender in Indiana. Collier is collaborating with Origination and IT at SWBC to improve process enhancements for scalability and efficiency. His primary focus is on the continuity of execution, and he is working with IT to improve automation opportunities—to enhance the borrower and employee experience.
"Jim's experience with financial services and mortgage lending makes him a great addition to the SWBC Mortgage family. We are delighted to have him on board, as he aims to enhance the origination process for our borrowers and employees," said Susan Stewart, CEO of SWBC Mortgage.
Collier is a graduate of Averett University in Danville, Virginia.
SWBC Mortgage Corporation (swbcmortgage.com) is a full-service mortgage lender approved by FNMA, FHLMC, and GNMA. Headquartered in San Antonio, Texas, SWBC Mortgage has been providing mortgage banking services since 1988. Through the changing landscape of the mortgage industry, the company has remained committed to service, integrity, and stability while growing to serve communities and borrowers in 43 states. Today, SWBC Mortgage is consistently recognized as one of the top 50 lenders in America and is home to numerous top-ranked originators. Building on a rich history of success, SWBC Mortgage has highly experienced team members who leverage cutting-edge technology to deliver industry-leading speed and service, while providing a personal, experienced touch to the mortgage process. The company's state-of-the-art digital application, unrivaled speed to close, and seamless transition to our servicing platform result in customers who consistently rate SWBC Mortgage as a top lending experience.
As a diversified financial services company, SWBC provides financial institutions, businesses, and individuals with a wide range of services, including insurance, mortgages, wealth management, employee benefits, and more. Headquartered in San Antonio, Texas, SWBC has partners and divisions across all 50 states and manages businesses around the world. No matter how wide its reach is, SWBC always listens to its customers' needs, analyzes their current situations, and recommends customized solutions. For more information about our innovative approach to personalized service, visit SWBC's website at swbc.com.
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SOURCE SWBC | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/08/23/swbc-mortgage-corporation-welcomes-new-cro/ | 2022-08-23T13:50:00Z |
“Incomparable Grace: JFK in the Presidency” by Mark K. Updegrove (Dutton)
Nearly six decades after his assassination in Dallas, President John F. Kennedy and his legacy remain an obsession for historians and the public alike. Mark K. Updegrove’s “Incomparable Grace: JFK in the Presidency” demonstrates why that obsession is well-deserved.
Updegrove’s book provides a succinct but absorbing look at key moments in Kennedy’s time in office and provides a counterweight to some of the doorstopper biographies that have been published over the years. Unlike some of those, like Robert Dallek’s excellent Kennedy biography, Updegrove doesn’t aim for a sweeping history of every moment in Kennedy’s life.
Updegrove focuses on the key moments of Kennedy’s presidency, from the Cuban Missile Crisis to the Civil Rights Movement. The years leading up Kennedy’s time in the White House take up less than a third of the book, but hardly feel brushed over.
Few people are in a better position to write about Kennedy’s life and legacy than Updegrove, the former head of the Lyndon B. Johnson Presidential Library and ABC News’ presidential historian.
The book’s most dramatic sections, as expected of any book on Kennedy’s presidency, are the ones focusing on Kennedy grappling with the Cold War tensions with the Soviet Union as well as the struggles over Civil Rights. Kennedy’s complicated relationship with Johnson, his unfaithful yet mythologized marriage to Jackie and his brother’s role in the presidency all are covered concisely, but none are given short shrift.
Updegrove provides a balanced look at Kennedy’s personal and political failings while offering a look at why a man who served just 1,036 days in office continues to rank so high by historians among the nation’s presidents. | https://cw33.com/entertainment-news/ap-entertainment/review-incomparable-grace-succinct-absorbing-look-at-jfk/ | 2022-05-03T11:05:55Z |
Company to receive over $250,000 in research funding to address condition affecting more than 14 million U.S. adults
PHILADELPHIA, Sept. 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- EpiVario, Inc., a biotech company developing novel therapeutics for memory-related psychiatric disorders, today announced it has been awarded a grant of nearly $260,000 from the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) to advance research on its proprietary small molecule inhibitors designed to reduce alcohol craving responses and help people with alcohol use disorder prevent relapse.
Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) is characterized by an impaired ability to stop or control alcohol use despite clinically significant impairment, distress, or other adverse consequences. As one of the most common substance use disorders, it costs the U.S. healthcare system roughly $28 billion annually, and contributes to over 95,000 deaths each year. Moreover, alcohol use and misuse are thought to contribute to over 200 related diseases and health conditions globally, including cardiovascular disease, cancer, liver cirrhosis, and injuries1.
The current standard of care for AUD is a combination of detoxification, psychotherapy, and community support programs, such as Alcoholics Anonymous. The limited number of pharmacotherapeutics available to supplement such treatments are not uniformly effective and are hampered by side effects, creating an urgent need for more effective treatments.
EpiVario has developed an epigenetic approach to AUD that controls neuronal plasticity, inhibiting alcohol-related memory processes, which are known to play a large role in driving the disorder. The metabolic enzyme ACSS2 generates acetyl-CoA, a key cofactor for patterns of histone acetylation important for long-term memory2. EpiVario's co-founders, Drs. Shelley Berger and Philipp Mews, discovered that ACSS2 plays a critical role in alcohol-related learning by coordinating alcohol-induced histone acetylation and gene expression in the hippocampus, which converts alcohol-derived acetate to acetyl-CoA3. This supports the hypothesis that alcohol may exert its addictive properties via ACSS2-dependent histone acetylation. This novel gene regulatory mechanism presents an attractive therapeutic strategy via pharmacological inhibition of ACSS2 to interfere with alcohol-related learning that drives AUD.
EpiVario's research will continue to evaluate the company's existing collection of small molecule inhibitors of ACSS2 for safety and efficacy in vivo, validate ACSS2 as a therapeutic target, and establish ACSS2 inhibition as a potential novel therapeutic strategy to treat AUD.
"This award marks a significant milestone for both our company and the millions affected by alcohol addiction worldwide," said Thomas Kim, President & CEO of EpiVario. "We are one step closer to addressing the urgent need for a reliable and safe AUD pharmacotherapy with minimal side effects. We are excited to deploy this funding to advance our preclinical research and aspire to begin human trials by the first half of 2024."
Dr. Howard Becker, Professor at the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC), is widely recognized for his development of relevant animal models of AUD and their use in research on mechanisms and strategies for treating excessive, harmful drinking. In collaboration with MUSC, Dr. Becker was selected as Principal Investigator for EpiVario's six-month study.
"I am honored to work with EpiVario on this truly innovative science," said Dr. Becker. "I have previously collaborated with EpiVario and its cofounder, Dr. Mews, and I am now most happy to collaboratively work on advancing EpiVario's drug development program that embraces a therapeutic strategy which is unlike any other AUD treatment available. It is exciting to take an active role in bringing this potentially life-changing therapy to market."
The isolation and stress of the pandemic has only worsened alcohol addiction over the past few years, and it's estimated that binge drinking increased by 21% since 20204. Alcohol consumption changes due to COVID-19 are expected to cause 100 additional deaths and 2,800 additional cases of liver failure by 2023. While the number of affected people continues to rise, only approximately 7% of people who had AUD in the past year received any treatment.
EpiVario is a biotech company developing novel therapeutics to address a wide range of memory-related psychiatric disorders, including PTSD, Alzheimer's, and alcohol and drug addiction. EpiVario's strategy is to treat these psychiatric disorders at the source of the disease – the intrusive memories that often cause relapse. These memories are weakened via epigenetic regulation through the target enzyme acetyl-coA synthetase 2 (ACSS2), which regulates consolidation of fear and drug-craving memories. EpiVario's co-founders discovered that ACSS2 is a key metabolic enzyme that works directly within the nucleus of neurons to turn genes on when new memories are being established, and also when memories are recalled and then reconsolidated. For more information visit http://www.epivario.com.
Media Contact:
Alyson Kuritz
Alyson@0to5.com
(908) 892-7149
- Burnette, E. M. et al. Novel Agents for the Pharmacological Treatment of Alcohol Use Disorder. Drugs 82, 251–274 (2022).
- Mews, P. et al. Acetyl-CoA synthetase regulates histone acetylation and hippocampal memory. Nature 546, 381–386 (2017).
- Mews, P. et al. Alcohol metabolism contributes to brain histone acetylation. Nature (2019) doi:10.1038/s41586-019-1700-7.
- The effect of COVID-19 on alcohol consumption, and policy responses to prevent harmful alcohol consumption. https://www.oecd.org/coronavirus/policy-responses/the-effect-of-covid-19-on-alcohol-consumption-and-policy-responses-to-prevent-harmful-alcohol-consumption-53890024/.
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SOURCE EpiVario Inc. | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/09/13/epivario-awarded-nih-grant-advance-research-alcohol-use-disorder-aud/ | 2022-09-13T13:08:50Z |
MIAMI, Aug. 1, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Brand Institute, the global leader in pharmaceutical and healthcare-related name development, is pleased to share the Name Review Group (NRG) meeting dates and respective submission deadlines, as announced by the European Medicines Agency (EMA). Please see all 2023 dates below, along with the remaining dates for 2022.
"The EMA established the Name Review Group (NRG) to perform reviews of the invented names of medicinal products being assessed by the Agency," said Nakos Balamotis, President, EU Regulatory Affairs for Brand Institute. "Names must be submitted by the above-mentioned deadlines in order to be assessed at the corresponding NRG meeting."
Dr. Balamotis recommends that those needing guidance on their regulatory submissions relating to the above critical deadlines should speak with qualified experts in the field, such as those at Brand Institute and its regulatory subsidiary, Drug Safety Institute (DSI). DSI consists largely of former regulators from the biggest regulatory authorities globally and has incomparable experience in name-related regulatory procedures.
Brand Institute is the global leader in brand name and identity development, providing a broad portfolio of branding and naming related services, including brand strategy, name development, trademark searches, market research, regulatory services, and visual identity solutions.
Drug Safety Institute (DSI) is a wholly owned subsidiary of Brand Institute that provides Brand Institute's healthcare clients with industry-leading guidance pertaining to drug name safety, packaging, and labeling. DSI is comprised of former naming regulatory officials from global government health agencies, including FDA, EMA, Health Canada, AMA, and the WHO.
Contact:
James Dettore
Chairman & C.E.O.
jdettore@brandinstitute.com
www.brandinstitute.com
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SOURCE Brand Institute, Inc. | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/08/01/brand-institutes-head-european-regulatory-affairs-discusses-emas-upcoming-nrg-meeting-calendar/ | 2022-08-01T14:00:53Z |
The Newly Renovated Star Buds Dispensary to Host a Grand Opening September 10, 2022
DENVER, Sept. 8, 2022 /PRNewswire/ - Schwazze (OTCQX: SHWZ) (NEO: SHWZ), a premier vertically integrated, multi-state operating cannabis company with assets in Colorado and New Mexico, announces the grand opening of its adult-use dispensary, Star Buds located in Glendale, Colorado. Star Buds Glendale is at located at 492 South Colorado Blvd at the corner Virginia Avenue and Colorado Boulevard.
Schwazze kicks off the grand opening celebration at Star Buds Glendale on Saturday, September 10, 2022, at 11 am. The celebration will feature swag bags for the first 50 shoppers, games, food trucks, social media scavenger hunts, and representatives from various prominent cannabis brands such as: O.Pen, Wyld, Kaviar, 1906 and more. In addition, Star Buds Glendale will offer all-weekend, in-store discounts including 50% off flower and Buy One Get One 50% off products. Shoppers also receive a house pre-roll for $1 with a minimum, pre-tax purchase of $60.
"Our team is excited to open Star Buds Glendale and to bring customers the largest selection of flower, vapes, edibles and more," said Collin Lodge, President of Colorado Division for Schwazze. "We're thrilled to become a part of the Glendale community and look forward to introducing everyone to the Star Buds difference related quality, service and product selection."
The dispensary, located at 492 South Colorado Blvd, Glendale, CO 80246, has undergone extensive remodeling this summer following the acquisition of Smoking Gun in December 2021. The acquisition and rebrand under the Star Buds name are part of an aggressive expansion plan in Colorado led by Schwazze, which has grown the total number of Colorado dispensaries to 23 statewide.
Star Buds Glendale
492 South Colorado Blvd
Glendale, CO 80246
September 10, 2022 @11 am
Since April 2020, Schwazze has acquired or announced the planned acquisition of 33 cannabis dispensaries as well as eight cultivation facilities and two manufacturing assets in Colorado and New Mexico. In May 2021, Schwazze announced its BioSciences division and in August 2021, it commenced home delivery services in Colorado.
Schwazze (OTCQX:SHWZ, NEO:SHWZ) is building a premier vertically integrated regional cannabis company with assets in Colorado and New Mexico and will continue to take its operating system to other states where it can develop a differentiated regional leadership position. Schwazze is the parent company of a portfolio of leading cannabis businesses and brands spanning seed to sale. The Company is committed to unlocking the full potential of the cannabis plant to improve the human condition. Schwazze is anchored by a high-performance culture that combines customer-centric thinking and data science to test, measure, and drive decisions and outcomes. The Company's leadership team has deep expertise in retailing, wholesaling, and building consumer brands at Fortune 500 companies as well as in the cannabis sector. Schwazze is passionate about making a difference in our communities, promoting diversity and inclusion, and doing our part to incorporate climate-conscious best practices.
Medicine Man Technologies, Inc. was Schwazze's former operating trade name. The corporate entity continues to be named Medicine Man Technologies, Inc. Schwazze derives its name from the pruning technique of a cannabis plant to enhance plant structure and promote healthy growth.
This press release contains "forward-looking statements." Such statements may be preceded by the words "plan," "will," "may,", "predicts," or similar words. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future events or performance, are based on certain assumptions, and are subject to various known and unknown risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the Company's control and cannot be predicted or quantified. Consequently, actual events and results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such risks and uncertainties include, without limitation, risks and uncertainties associated with (i) our inability to manufacture our products and product candidates on a commercial scale on our own or in collaboration with third parties; (ii) difficulties in obtaining financing on commercially reasonable terms; (iii) changes in the size and nature of our competition; (iv) loss of one or more key executives or scientists; (v) difficulties in securing regulatory approval to market our products and product candidates; (vi) our ability to successfully execute our growth strategy in Colorado and outside the state, (vii) our ability to consummate the acquisition described in this press release or to identify and consummate future acquisitions that meet our criteria, (viii) our ability to successfully integrate acquired businesses and realize synergies therefrom, (ix) the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, * the timing and extent of governmental stimulus programs, (xi) the uncertainty in the application of federal, state and local laws to our business, and any changes in such laws, and * out ability to satisfy the closing conditions for the private finding described in this press release. More detailed information about the Company and the risk factors that may affect the realization of forward-looking statements is set forth in the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), including the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K and its Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q. Investors and security holders are urged to read these documents free of charge on the SEC's website at http://www.sec.gov. The Company assumes no obligation to publicly update or revise its forward-looking statements as a result of new information, future events or otherwise except as required by law.
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SOURCE Schwazze | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/09/08/schwazze-announces-grand-opening-star-buds-dispensary-city-glendale/ | 2022-09-08T13:50:22Z |
HONG KONG, Aug. 22, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Mecobit Photo voltaic, a world firm with an emphasis on high-quality photo voltaic at an inexpensive worth, proclaims product enhancements to its Photo voltaic System merchandise that energy cryptocurrency miners and different current miners. Mecobit Photo voltaic System merchandise embody a conveyable photo voltaic station, Photo voltaic Panel kits (full), and Photo voltaic Unit M4000.
Mecobit photo voltaic system clients can now use backup vitality throughout a grid outage to assist preserve indispensable home equipment working or energy issues like dwelling home equipment, dryers, pool pumps, electrical automobile chargers, and even Cryptocurrency mining rigs.
Some cryptocurrencies, together with Bitcoin, are created by a course of referred to as proof of labor which requires computer systems to "mine" the forex by fixing complicated puzzles. Powering these computer systems includes massive quantities of electrical energy. Bitcoin is notorious for losing sufficient electrical energy so as to add 40 million tons of carbon dioxide to the environment a year -- however now, a rising cadre of miners world wide are creating inexperienced, and profitable, new methods price a fortune all their very own.
Because the share of solar-powered hash charge appears more likely to develop, many see the potential for renewable vitality use in Bitcoin mining as a virtuous cycle -- Mecobit gives distinctive incentives in Cryptocurrency mining, which propel operations to leverage the most affordable energy doable and encourage extra operations worldwide to transform to renewable vitality sources, like photo voltaic.
As governments agree to scale back ranges of carbon emissions and introduce further incentives like funding tax credit, the share of mining operations utilizing solar energy will possible improve. And whereas solar energy could also be thought-about inexperienced and renewable, there are important issues with photo voltaic, together with the bounds of daylight hours and delivery prices. To assist cut back delivery prices, Mecobit pays for delivery and import tariffs, enabling clients to accumulate every little thing they should get began with no additional prices past the price of the system itself.
About Mecobit
Mecobit was based in 2015 with the objective of creating and advertising and marketing the world's solar-powered cryptocurrency miners, which might use both Ethash, SHA-256, or Scrypt expertise. The corporate was the primary solar-powered cryptocurrency mining enterprise on the earth with the objective of revolutionizing the photo voltaic panel trade by offering extra energy at a extra inexpensive worth. Mecobit is headquartered in London, England, and has places of work in cities the world over, together with Hong Kong. The corporate's web site, www.mecobit.com gives further data on the corporate and its merchandise.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Ben Lukas
+852-3001 1453
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SOURCE MECOBIT LIMITED | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/08/22/mecobit-begins-new-period-photo-voltaic-powered-cryptocurrency-mining/ | 2022-08-22T17:45:57Z |
EMERYVILLE, Calif., Sept. 12, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Dynavax Technologies Corporation (Nasdaq: DVAX), a commercial-stage biopharmaceutical company developing and commercializing innovative vaccines, in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Defense's (DOD) Joint Program Executive Office for Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear Defense (JPEO-CBRND) and supported by the DOD's Chemical and Biological Defense Program, today announced that the first participant has been dosed in a Phase 2 clinical trial evaluating the immunogenicity, safety, and tolerability of the JPEO-CBRND's Recombinant Plague (rF1V) vaccine combined with Dynavax's CpG 1018®adjuvant, in adults 18 to 55 years of age.
"We are proud to support the U.S. government in developing an effective adjuvanted plague vaccine that we believe will allow U.S. service members to be protected with fewer doses administered over a shorter period of time," commented Ryan Spencer, Chief Executive Officer of Dynavax. "The development of a CpG 1018 adjuvanted plague vaccine is an important example of the broad utility of our adjuvant which we are leveraging to build our pipeline of new and improved vaccines."
As previously announced, Dynavax and the DOD executed an agreement which provides for approximately $22 million in funding over two and a half years to develop an improved recombinant plague vaccine adjuvanted with CpG 1018 adjuvant. Under the agreement, Dynavax will conduct a Phase 2 clinical trial combining its CpG 1018 adjuvant with the DOD's rF1V vaccine. The trial is assessing a two-dose regimen administered over one month. Previous clinical studies of the rF1V, not including CpG 1018 adjuvant, have evaluated a three-dose regimen over six months. Any future commercial supply agreements would be subject to a separate agreement between Dynavax and the U.S government.
Dynavax developed CpG 1018 adjuvant to provide an increased vaccine immune response with an improved tolerability profile, which has been demonstrated in HEPLISAV-B vaccine for adult hepatitis B and multiple COVID-19 vaccines that have received Emergency Use Authorization outside of the U.S. CpG 1018 adjuvant provides a well-developed technology and a significant safety database, potentially accelerating the development and large-scale manufacturing of novel or improved vaccines.
Dynavax is a commercial-stage biopharmaceutical company developing and commercializing innovative vaccines to help protect the world against infectious diseases. The Company has two commercial products, HEPLISAV-B® vaccine [Hepatitis B Vaccine (Recombinant), Adjuvanted], which is approved in the U.S. and the European Union for the prevention of infection caused by all known subtypes of hepatitis B virus in adults 18 years of age and older, and CpG 1018® adjuvant, currently used in multiple adjuvanted COVID-19 vaccines. Dynavax is advancing CpG 1018 adjuvant as a premier vaccine adjuvant through global research collaborations and partnerships. Current collaborations are focused on adjuvanted vaccines for COVID-19, seasonal influenza, universal influenza, plague, shingles and Tdap. For more information about our marketed products and development pipeline, visit www.dynavax.com and follow Dynavax on LinkedIn.
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, which are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties. All statements that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements can generally be identified by the use of words such as "anticipate," "believe," "continue," "could," "estimate," "expect," "forecast," "intend," "will," "may," "plan," "project," "potential," "seek," "should," "think," "will," "would" and similar expressions, or the negatives thereof, or they may use future dates. Forward-looking statements in this document include, without limitation, statements regarding our expectations as to outcomes relating to ongoing contractual relationships, the timing and potential outcomes of trials. These forward-looking statements are subject to assumptions, risks and uncertainties that may change at any time, and readers are therefore cautioned that actual results could differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ include, among other things: risks and uncertainties associated with actual results of our clinical trials; whether and when an improved plague vaccine candidate will be approved for use and launched; whether we can manufacture sufficient quantities of CpG 1018 to support this program; and other risks and uncertainties discussed in the Company's filings with the SEC, including the "Risk Factors" sections of the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2022. The Company undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as expressly required by law. All forward-looking statements in this document are qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement.
Contacts:
Nicole Arndt, Investor Relations and Corporate Communications
narndt@dynavax.com
510-665-7264
Derek Cole, President
Investor Relations Advisory Solutions
derek.cole@IRadvisory.com
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SOURCE Dynavax Technologies | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/09/12/dynavax-announces-first-participant-dosed-phase-2-clinical-trial-evaluating-an-adjuvanted-plague-vaccine/ | 2022-09-12T12:44:15Z |
SACRAMENTO, Calif., June 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Extending operations at the Diablo Canyon Nuclear Power Plant, California's largest single source of carbon-free electricity production, would significantly reduce emissions and natural gas use, and accelerate progress toward the state's ambitious clean energy goals, according to a new study released by Carbon Free California. Retaining Diablo Canyon could help avoid blackouts, significantly reduce electric power costs and provide the best opportunity for California to meet its climate goals, even with the widespread deployment of renewables and energy storage.
The analysis, conducted by the Brattle Group, found that keeping Diablo Canyon online could also help enable California to achieve a carbon-free grid by 2035, a decade earlier than the state's current goal, at a cost $5 billion lower than if the plant were retired. These early reductions could help jumpstart economy-wide decarbonization and reduce California's dependence on gas-fired power generation, lowering cumulative greenhouse gas emissions by 40 million metric tons of CO2.
"Diablo Canyon is already the largest clean energy resource in California, a state that has set the ambitious goal of a carbon-free electric grid," said Brattle Group Principal Sam Newell. "In combination with a dramatic expansion of solar, wind, storage and dispatchable clean technologies, the study shows that keeping Diablo Canyon online will help California achieve its goals faster, at less cost and with greater grid reliability."
The study found that keeping Diablo Canyon in California's energy portfolio could reduce costs for ratepayers by a net present value (NPV) of approximately $4 billion, even with an assumed capital investment of $2 billion to meet the state's ocean water intake standards. These system-wide savings result from displacing gas-fired generation and fossil fuel imports and reducing other costs for resources needed to meet clean energy and reliability goals.
This report comes at a time when the Newsom Administration has indicated its interest in exploring the option of retaining Diablo Canyon and the state faces significant electricity reliability challenges. Recently released polling found that 58% of state residents believe Diablo Canyon should continue to operate, with even greater support in the local community surrounding the plant.
Brattle Group's full analysis is available here.
What Others Are Saying
"The report, building on work from Stanford and MIT researchers, takes a hardheaded look at the benefits to California of keeping Diablo Canyon as a part of our state's zero carbon electricity mix. Given state policymakers reconsideration of the wisdom of closing the plant, it's worth taking a serious look at this highly credible work."
- Michael Wara, director of the Climate and Energy Policy Program at the Woods Institute for the Environment at Stanford University
"For California to stay on track with its deep decarbonization goals everything needs to line up, especially in the electric power sector. That means massive expansion of renewable energy supplies and transmission at rates that are unprecedented. This new analysis shows that the extension of Diablo Canyon would, in effect, give California more options as it figures out how to add all these renewables. The California decarbonization plan matters mainly because it is a model for the rest of the world. If California fails—because deep decarbonization proves infeasible or the grid becomes conspicuously unreliable—that will send a signal that could set back planetary efforts to cut emissions and slow global warming. We need to get this right, which means putting all options on the table to help the state decarbonize."
- David Victor, endowed chair in Innovation and Public Policy, University of California, San Diego, and director of the Deep Decarbonization Initiative
"This report by the Brattle Group provides strong and accurate support for keeping the Diablo Canyon Nuclear Power Plant up and running. California's goals for reliable, carbon-free power will require clean firm power – power available whenever you need, for as long as you need it. In a system where inexpensive but seasonally variable solar power makes up a dominant share of the electricity portfolio, Diablo Canyon's 2.2 Gigawatts will keep carbon out of the atmosphere while keeping the lights on in California when renewable energy isn't available. California would be wise to keep this plant running."
- Jane Long, associate director for Energy and Environment at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (ret.) and lead author of the recent study on requirements for decarbonizing California's electric system
ABOUT CARBON FREE CALIFORNIA
Carbon Free California is funded by California-based entrepreneurs and brings together leaders from business, labor and the technology sector to focus on creating a pathway to a carbon-free future and securing the clean, reliable energy needed to power the world's fifth-largest economy. Carbon Free California believes the state must pursue all forms of emission-free energy to address the climate crisis and achieve our urgent emission reduction goals. Extending the operation of the Diablo Canyon Nuclear Power Plant will bolster the grid with reliable carbon-free energy and enable the state to transition to increasing shares of wind and solar power, while avoiding disruptive and costly rolling blackouts. Carbon Free California receives no funding from utility or nuclear industry interests.
ABOUT BRATTLE GROUP
The Brattle Group answers complex economic, finance, and regulatory questions for corporations, law firms, and governments around the world. Brattle is distinguished by the clarity of their insights and the credibility of their experts, which include leading international academics and industry specialists. Brattle has 500 talented professionals across four continents. For more information, please visit brattle.com.
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SOURCE Carbon Free California | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/06/09/study-keeping-diablo-canyon-power-plant-online-would-help-california-decarbonize-more-quickly-more-reliably-lower-cost/ | 2022-06-09T18:35:31Z |
NEW YORK, Aug. 25, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Standard Motor Products, Inc. (SMP) is pleased to announce the addition of 314 new part numbers in its August new number announcement. This release covers over 100 product categories and includes over 100 part numbers for 2021 and 2022 model-year vehicles.
SMP is committed to providing replacement parts for hybrid and electric vehicles through its Standard®, Standard® Import, and Four Seasons® brands. The August NNA added several new components for the 2021 Mustang Mach-E, 2021-13 Nissan Leaf, 2022-16 Toyota Prius, 2020-19 Kia Niro EV, 2018-16 Audi A3 Sportback e-tron, and 2015 Mercedes-Benz B-Class Electric Drive.
This month's release expands on powertrain-neutral coverage for both Standard® and Four Seasons® with over 170 new Sensors, Switches, Actuators, and Connectors. Included are 23 new Power Window Switches, as well as Shift Interlock Actuators, Back-Up Light Switches, Four Wheel Drive Actuator Connectors, and more.
Standard® remains dedicated to expanding its ADAS (Advanced Driver Assist Systems) program. The expansion includes 17 new ABS Speed Sensors, 11 new Park Assist Cameras, and several new Blind Spot Detection Sensors. Cruise Control Distance Sensors are also now available for popular Ford and Lincoln SUVS, including the 2013-12 Explorer, Edge, and MKX.
John Herc, Vice President Engine of Management Marketing, SMP, stated, "We are proud of the 300+ new part numbers added to our extensive product line. In addition to offering the highest quality products possible, the coverage provided by these new part numbers is an integral part of our mission to provide our dedicated distribution partners and loyal service providers with the parts they need to get the job done."
Standard's turbocharger program continues to grow with the release of four new Turbocharger Kits for over 2.4 million popular Ford vehicles including the 2020-15 Transit platform. The release also adds numerous turbocharger related parts including Turbocharger Oil Lines, Turbocharger Coolant Lines, Turbocharger Bypass Valves, and Charge Air Coolers.
Standard® continues to expand its Collision Repair program with the introduction of Radiator Active Grille Shutter Assemblies for the 2020-18 Ford F-150. Power Door Lock Actuators, Trunk Lock Actuator Motors, and Tailgate Lock Actuator Motors are just a few of the Collision products also included in the release.
In an effort to expand existing product lines, Standard® has released three new Transfer Case Motors for 6.6 million vehicles on the road, including the 2021 Cadillac Escalade, 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe, 2010-05 Jeep Grand Cherokee, and 2019-07 Chevrolet Silverado 2500.
Four Seasons®, SMP's Temperature Control Division, has added 67 new part numbers to its product line. Included are 31 new Air Door Actuators covering over 6 million domestic and import vehicles on the road, including the 2021-13 Buick Encore, 2020-15 Acura TLX, 2016 Honda Odyssey, and 2016-14 Chevrolet Spark.
Four Seasons® has also introduced several new Compressors, adding coverage for the 2021-18 Ford Mustang, 2022-20 Subaru Outback, and 2020 Hyundai Accent and Kia Rio. Additionally, Complete A/C Kits, Hose Assemblies, Heater Cores, and Thermostat Housings are part of the release, helping Four Seasons® to continue providing everything technicians need for a complete A/C service.
All new applications are listed in the catalogs found at StandardBrand.com and 4S.com, and in electronic catalog providers.
About SMP
With over 100 years in business, Standard Motor Products, Inc. is a leading independent manufacturer and distributor of premium automotive replacement parts. SMP supplies independent professional technicians and do- it-yourselfers with high quality replacement parts for engine management, ignition, emissions, fuel and safety- related systems, as well as temperature control products for domestic and import cars and light trucks. SMP is committed to providing replacement parts for all platforms including the latest hybrid and electric vehicle systems. SMP products are sold worldwide through both traditional and non-traditional distribution channels. For more information, download the SMP Parts App or visit smpcorp.com.
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SOURCE Standard Motor Products, Inc. | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/08/25/standard-motor-products-introduces-over-300-new-part-numbers/ | 2022-08-25T17:33:27Z |
HONG KONG, April 25, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Wonderlabs has recently released SwitchBot Pan/Tilt Cam with brand new Privacy Mask mode.
SwitchBot Pan/Tilt Cam, unlike outdoor cameras, is a home security camera that is predominantly made to help watch over homes. It features two high quality motors, and can rotate 360 degrees to allow users to see their rooms clearly in 1080p HD video.
Two favorite features would probably have to be Two-way Audio, and Privacy Mask, which helps make SwitchBot Pan/Tilt Cam one of the best security cameras for using at home. Why? With Two-way Audio, users are able to communicate with anyone via SwitchBot's app when viewing any surrounding area, which makes it perfect for being a deterrent ("we're looking at you, pesky pets and unwanted intruders"), or helps users say hi to whoever's around. Privacy Mask also helps give users that little bit more peace of mind. When arriving home, SwitchBot Pan/Tilt Cam's lens will automatically retreat inside its device housing to completely cover the lens to offer a more tangible sense of privacy. But it will be discussed in more detail below.
Enjoy more privacy with Privacy Mask.
The new privacy-based mode featured on Pan/Tilt Cam makes it easy to see that SwitchBot has taken measures to let it users feel a little more at ease when using home monitoring equipment, as Privacy Mask really goes one step further to leave no doubt that the camera is tucked away, and no, not recording users singing Luther Vandross in underwear on a Sunday morning.
SwitchBot also produces a bunch of other smart home devices that can be used in conjunction with this feature, SwitchBot Contact Sensor being one of them. This really enables users to "automate peace of mind" and have their home environment set up so that as soon as motion is detected.
So what else can SwitchBot Pan/Tilt Cam offer
Apart from all of the above, SwitchBot Pan/Tilt Cam also has a host of other really useful functions including:
- Motion detection
- Local video/image storage
- Night Vision
- Instant Notifications
- Voice Control
- And much, much more!
SwitchBot Pan/Tilt Cam is available to buy now for $39.99USD via Amazon or their webstore.
About SwitchBot.
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SOURCE WONDERLABS LIMITED | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/04/25/wonderlabs-releases-home-monitoring-switchbot-camera-with-brand-new-privacy-mask-mode-included/ | 2022-04-25T12:02:56Z |
DHS warns of threats against Supreme Court in wake of leaked draft Roe opinion
By Whitney Wild, CNN
The Department of Homeland Security is warning law enforcement partners that there are potential threats to the public and members of the Supreme Court in response to the national abortion debate, including threats of burning down or storming the US Supreme Court and murdering justices and their clerks, members of Congress and lawful demonstrators.
A DHS memo warns that “domestic violence extremists and criminal actors have adopted narratives surrounding abortion rights to encourage violence, likely increasing the threat to government, religious, and reproductive healthcare personnel and facilities and ideological opponents.”
Intelligence officials believe people “across a broad range of ideologies are attempting to justify and inspire attacks against abortion-related targets and ideological opponents at lawful protests.”
“We assess that the broader ideological spectrum of potential DVEs (domestic violent extremists) linked to recent abortion-related threats likely seek to target a range of individuals and entities,” the officials wrote in the memo, which was first reported by Axios. “Historically, violent acts related to this issue were primarily committed by abortion-related violent extremists that opposed abortion rights. Going forward, grievances related to restricting abortion access could fuel violence by pro-choice abortion-related violent extremists and other DVEs.”
The memo illustrates the heightened environment, and says Supreme Court police have noticed a major uptick in social media threats of violence, with some currently under investigation. Some of those threats have been directed at the Supreme Court justices and the building.
One example flagged by DHS officials occurred May 7 when a social media administrator encouraged other users to engage in “unrelenting violence” as an alternative to counterprotest.
The National Capitol Region Threat Intelligence Consortium has identified and forwarded more than two dozen threats to relevant agencies for further investigation.
The memo also points to a threat first reported by CNN earlier this month in which Capitol Police about a threat against an religious abortion-rights protest. Officials have been monitoring an uptick in social media chatter related to the leaked abortion ruling showing the Supreme Court will likely strike down federally protected access to abortion. Days after the leaked draft appeared in Politico, officials erected an eight-foot non-scalable fence around the Supreme Court building.
Federal officials have been warning for more than a year that America remains in a heightened threat environment driven by political ideologies and disinformation. The memo also shows that since July 2021, there have been at least four violent confrontations between ideological opponents at abortion-related protests in Oregon and California where people used smoke grenades, paintball guns, batons, chemical irritants and bats.
“DHS is committed to protecting Americans’ freedom of speech and other civil rights and civil liberties, including the right to peacefully protest,” a spokesperson for DHS said in a statement. “DHS is also committed to working with our partners across every level of government and the private sector to share timely information and intelligence, prevent all forms of violence, and to support law enforcement efforts to keep our communities safe.”
A former law enforcement source familiar with the process and counterterrorism planning noted that the threat facing the US today centers around foreign and domestic threat actors using high-visibility and socially divisive issues as an opportunity to call for acts of violence in the hopes that individuals will act upon them.
“Already we are seeing foreign and domestic threat actors call for violence directed at SCOTUS, clerks, health care providers, and those who are advocating on both sides of the issue,” the source said.
“These threats need to be taken very seriously and law enforcement needs to ensure that any local threat is fully investigated and facilities are fully protected,” the source said.
Further violence associated with abortion rights has happened before. At least 10 murders have been committed by anti-abortion rights extremists, as well as dozens of bombings and arsons targeting abortion providers and facilities, have occurred in the years following the Roe v. Wade decision, the memo says.
In 2021, several arson attacks targeted reproductive health care facilities while violent threats were directed at facilities, doctors, and patients, according to the memo.
Security bolstered in DC
Law enforcement and law makers around Washington have bolstered security surrounding the Justices and abortion-related protests. The Metropolitan Police Department has activated its Civil Disturbance Unit through May 20, and the US Marshals has said the agency is assisting Supreme Court police.
Last week, Republicans in Congress and governors’ mansions called on Attorney General Merrick Garland to enforce a 1950 federal law that makes it illegal to hold protests outside the homes of judges in order to influence their decisions.
In recent weeks, protesters have held peaceful demonstrations outside the homes of multiple conservative Supreme Court justices. In a statement on May 11, a Justice Department spokesperson said Garland was continuing to be briefed on the “security matters related” to the justices and that he had directed the US Marshals Service to provide assistance to the separate police agency that provides security to the Supreme Court.
The statement came as Republicans ramped up pressure on Garland to enforce the law and as appropriateness of the protests have split Democrats, who are hoping the outrage over an expected Supreme Court decision gutting abortion rights will boost them in the midterms.
The White House and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer have declined to condemn protests outside justices’ homes as long as they stay peaceful, while Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Dick Durbin called them “reprehensible” on Thursday. The Senate has also approved a new security package for justices and their families, introduced by Republican Sen. John Cornyn of Texas and co-sponsored by Democratic Sen. Chris Coons of Delaware. The bill’s prospects in the House are unclear.
The-CNN-Wire
™ & © 2022 Cable News Network, Inc., a WarnerMedia Company. All rights reserved. | https://localnews8.com/news/2022/05/18/dhs-warns-of-threats-against-supreme-court-in-wake-of-leaked-draft-roe-opinion/ | 2022-05-18T16:59:59Z |
HONG KONG, Aug. 22, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Luduson G Inc. (OTC:LDSN) issued letter to shareholders today covering new business initiatives on post pandemic growth plan:
Letter to our shareholders
Dear fellow shareholders of LDSN,
With this first of what we hope to be many future shareholder letters, we want to start a direct communication with you as our shareholders and partners to give you insight into our strategic objectives and values, as well as sharing with you our vision for the future of the company going forward in the entertainment industry. On behalf of the management and all our team members, we welcome you and look forward to our journey together.
We are a Delaware holding company that through our subsidiaries are engaged in the business-to-business ("B2B") interactive gaming technology, as well as providing event marketing strategies with a combination of digital interactive solutions and content production services. In digital marketing industry, we offer B2B digital marketing solutions on our proprietary and secure network platform, which accommodates a wide range of devices and theme-based gaming content to be delivered efficiently to devices include multi-touch table, body motion sensing, indoor positioning device and electronic circuit system, together with the customized game content, as an integrated marketing solution. We are principally engaged in developing and distributing digital entertainment, interactive game software and system development consultancy, maintenance of the services, and providing interactive games to be installed in shopping mall events, exhibitions and brand promotions.
We provide our business customers in the entertainment industry with a full line of custom-made interactive gaming services. We offer a customized device box with a library of self-developed interactive game contents, such as sport-themed social games, motion sensing action games, logic and puzzle games, original IP characters education game for children, etc. to meet with our business customers' operational use or business-to-business social solutions. Our goal is to provide an innovative solution services to satisfy diverse marketing needs.
The outbreak of COVID-19 pandemic that stated in 2020 has created a very hostile business environment to us during the past two years. With resulted in quarantines, travel restrictions, and the temporary closure of stores and business facilities, most public marketing events and conventions have ceased. The financial condition for calendar year 2021 have been adversely affected. Although many countries are resuming travelling by reducing quarantine period for travellers, we still experience material impact on our financial results during the first half of 2022.
While commercial activities are resuming in Hong Kong and many other countries, we have started with a few new projects which will bring the businesses back to Luduson. The company will continue with what we've been doing in events and exhibitions, while extending of knowledge and experiences in eMarketing which will further expand our business coverage by partnering with market leaders to provide consumers with new online shopping experiences.
LDSN will also be looking into potential merge and acquisition strategies to extend our market reach, putting our interactive marketing solutions to other parts of Asia and then worldwide.
Finally, I would like to thank everyone reading through this letter and those who has been giving supports to LDSN. We will be making differences and exciting projects again with everyone walking out of the pandemic together.
Ka Leung Wong
CEO
Luduson G Inc.
For more information on Luduson, please visit www.luduson.com.
Forward Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements. All statements other than statements of historical fact are forward-looking statements, which are often indicated by terms such as "anticipate," "believe," "could," "estimate," "expect," "goal," "intend," "look forward to," "may," "plan," "potential," "predict," "project," "should," "will," "would" and similar expressions. These forward-looking statements may include, but are not limited to, statements regarding future business activities including the expansion into the decentralized financing space. These forward-looking statements are not promises or guarantees and involve substantial risks and uncertainties. Among the factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described or projected herein include uncertainties associated with operating a business in Hong Kong, risk of interference by the PRC government, ability to compete, that financial resources do not last for as long as anticipated. A further list and description of these risks, uncertainties and other risks can be found in LDSN's regulatory filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, including in its current report on Form 10-K filed on April 15, 2022. Existing and prospective investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date hereof. LDSN undertakes no obligation to update or revise the information contained in this press release, whether as a result of new information, future events or circumstances or otherwise.
For media queries, please contact:
Parkson Yip
ir@luduson.com
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SOURCE Luduson G Inc. | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/08/22/luduson-g-inc-issued-letter-shareholders-covering-new-business-initiatives-post-pandemic-growth-plan/ | 2022-08-22T14:53:42Z |
PARIS, Sept. 6, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Global turnover from Fine Art auction sales increased by 8.8% in H1 2022, despite another wave of Covid-19 in China. Artprice counted a record number of auction transactions around the world and observes a growing enthusiasm for works by artists from the second half of the 20th and the beginning of the 21st century, whose prices are highly volatile.
Four indicators of the health of global Fine Art auction activity in H1 2022
Infographic - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1891851/Artmarket_Fine_Art_Infographic.jpg
thierry Ehrmann, President, and Founder of Artmarket.com: "A comprehensive study of the results of public auctions reveals growing competition between New York, London, and Hong Kong. This competition is rapidly inflating the prices of works by young artists to levels usually reserved for great masters. On the occasion of the Frieze London and Paris+ fairs (the latter run by Art Basel), Artprice will be publishing an exclusive report dedicated to 'Ultra Contemporary' Art: a term that designates a dynamic that is developing around artists under 40 years old, like Matthew Wong, Avery Singer, and Refik Anadol.
The analysis of the Art Market presented in this H1 2022 Report is based on the Fine Art public auction results recorded by Artprice and only concerns paintings, sculptures, drawings, photographs, prints, videos, installations, tapestries as well as NFTs, and excludes antiquities, anonymous cultural property, and furniture. All prices indicated in this Report refer to public auction results, including buyers' fees, and the $ sign refers to the US dollar.
H1 2022 KEY FIGURES
- Global Fine Art auction proceeds reached $7.49 billion.
- The art market's 5th most prosperous H1 period ever recorded.
- An increase of 8.8% versus H1 2021.
- A record 326,000 lots sold in H1 2022 versus 313,400 in H1 2021
- Christie's hammered the 2nd best art auction result of all time at $195 million.
- The unsold rate rose to 31% versus 27% in H1 2021.
- With a turnover of $3.27 billion, New York was clearly the world's leading marketplace.
- In second and third place, London hammered $1.43 billion and Hong Kong took $610 million.
- Not far behind, the Parisian art market generated $518 million and has attracted a growing number of international institutions.
- Christie's and Sotheby's account for 38% of global fine art turnover.
- The Macklowe Collection became the most expensive collection ever sold in the world, generating $922 million.
- 180 NFTs sold at auction generating $8.5 million.
ORGANIZATION AND STRUCTURE OF THE ART MARKET
As the health crisis wanes worldwide, Fine Art auctions settled down to an unsold rate of 31%, almost one in three works offered for sale. This level corresponds to a stable average over the last twenty years, fluctuating between 36% in 2009 and 27% in 2021. Indeed, this key market indicator has reacted quite differently compared with how it reacted in the last major crisis that affected the global art market, the 2009 financial crisis. Back then, collectors decided to take less financial risk, whereas the health crisis of 2021 prompted buyers to switch to a new entirely dematerialized sales channel.
In the first half of 2022, the market found a new balance thanks to the coexistence of two different and complementary sales channels (one physical, the other digital), which allowed auction transactions to continue at a healthy pace reaching a historic number of 326,000 Fine Art lots in six months. In H1 2022 this volume further increased to an unprecedented intensity, despite the postponement of many auctions in China (whose turnover volume is down 53%) due to an additional wave of Covid-19.
The United States (up 42% vs. H1 2021) and the UK (up 26%) have driven growth. The two powerful Anglo-Saxon markets alone accounted for exactly two-thirds of global Fine Art auction turnover. China, for its part, only accounted for 12% of global fine art auction turnover, a result that it owes in large part to Hong Kong which accounted for 70% of the value of the entire Chinese art market (including Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan).
France continued to grow (+14%) consolidating its 4th place ahead of Germany (-5%) after a sensational performance in 2021. In addition to the presence of Christie's and Sotheby's, several Parisian auction operators posted exceptionally strong performances: Artcurial (+42%) and Aguttes (+154%), among others. Meanwhile, The French capital is attracting a growing number of major international players like David Zwirner, while the Gagosian and Continua galleries have opened new spaces in France. Paris is delighted to see the upcoming arrival of Hauser & Wirth as well as the opening of a Phillips auction room. Bonhams has acquired the French house Cornette de Saint-Cyr (operating in Paris and Brussels). Lastly, the Art Basel company will henceforth be the official organizer of the international autumn art fair organized at the Grand Palais in Paris, entitled Paris+, which will replace the FIAC.
Japan and Switzerland also had an excellent start to 2022 with increases of 74% and 145% in their respective auction turnover totals. Without directly competing with Hong Kong (which still weighs seven times more), Tokyo is positioning itself on the Asian continent as a hub for major contemporary artists, including Andy Warhol, Yoshitomo Nara, Yayoi Kusama, but also young talents like Mr Doodle and Ayako Rokkaku (born in 1982), whose auction sales have already exceeded $18.6 million this year. For its part, Switzerland is continuing to carve out a place for itself in the Post-Impressionist and Modern Art market, with sales of important works by Ferdinand Hodler, Alberto Giacometti, and Marc Chagall.
Ferdinand Hodler, Der Brienzersee von Breitlauenen aus (1906); sold for CHF 2,875,000 (~$3 million) on 17 June 2022 by Galerie Kornfeld in Bern
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TRENDS: NFTs AND ULTRA CONTEMPORARY ART
Propelled to center stage in March 2021 with a first public auction result at $69.4 million, NFTs (non-fungible tokens) have created something of a revolution in the art market, with a new type of work, new collectors, and a new currency.
Of the 277 NFTs auctioned in H1 2022, 65% sold for an average price of $47,000. This situation is very different from H2 2021 in which 225 NFTs were offered for sale, of which 86% sold at an average price of $520,000. Beeple's Human One (2021) fetched nearly $29 million last November at Christie's, whereas the best NFT result in H1 2022 was just $1.38 million for Living Architecture: Casa Batlló (2022) by Refik Anadol.
The 104 CryptoPunks that Sotheby's announced in February 2022 were finally withdrawn on the eve of their scheduled sale. The withdrawal of such a lot, estimated between $20 and $30 million, underscores the extent to which NFT market players remain somewhat skeptical about the service provided by traditional intermediaries. Not only are they expensive (transaction costs amount to an average of 20% compared with around 2% to 3% via NFT platforms) but they also are governed by a much less flexible schedule. The major auction houses are nevertheless continuing their efforts to participate in this emerging market, although they only very rarely sell major NFT collections (BAYC, WoW, etc.). For the time being, such projects no longer seem to need the marketing efforts or the legitimacy of regulated auction houses.
At the same time, the volatility of cryptocurrencies, has exacerbated the mistrust of traditional collectors vis-à-vis this disruptive market. Fortunately, this lull will provide a good number of artists, dealers, collectors, and institutions – starting with museums – an opportunity to take an interest in digital works and to consider acquiring NFTs without the pressure of record sales and over-mediatization.
The NFT phenomenon stems from the same enthusiasm that Artprice is observing for the work of young artists, some of whom are eliciting record multi-million dollar results even before their work has been exhibited in a major museum or before they have even enjoyed a solo show in a gallery. The recent auction records for works by artists under 40 (whose very recent works are already trading on the secondary market) will be analyzed by the next Artprice Ultra Contemporary Art Report to be published in October 2022. This will notably be an opportunity to highlight the growing success and influence of young female painters.
Top 10 personal records for living artists under 40 at auction in H1 2022
©artprice.com
1. Avery Singer (1987): $5,253,000
2. Christina Quarles (1985): $4,527,000
3. Jennifer Packer (1984): $2,349,000
4. María Berrio (1982): $1,562,500
5. Robbie Barrat (1999): $841,317
6. Robert Nava (1985): $639,401
7. Issy Wood (1993): $588,042
8. Lauren Quin (1992): $588,042
9. Louis Fratino (1993): $365,400
10. Jordy Kerwick (1982): $277,200
FIVE EXCEPTIONAL RESULTS IN H1 2022
Andy Warhol's Shot Sage Blue Marilyn elicited the second highest ever art auction bid. For the first time since Leonardo Da Vinci's Salvator Mundi in November 2017 (four and a half years ago), the ultra-high-end market is back with a result that once again questions the notion of an absolute masterpiece and its value. The charity sale that produced this result was guaranteed by Christie's and ended with a result of $195 million (including fees). The 'painting' was acquired by Larry Gagosian himself, the powerful gallery owner who had already sold the canvas to Thomas Ammann in the early 1980s.
The French auction house Artcurial had the honor of presenting an exceptional still-life by Jean-Baptiste Chardin, Le panier de fraises des bois, painted in 1761 and exhibited the same year at the Grand Salon in Paris. While this was the first appearance of this painting at auction, art expert Eric Turquin insists on the immense historical importance of the work, importance to which the labels on the back of the painting attest, having been included in many prestigious exhibitions around the world. A gentle and magic painting, the Jean-Baptiste Chardin masterpiece was estimated between $13 and $16 million and finally sold for $26.8 million.
The biggest sensation of the year was undoubtedly created by the canvas The Sugar Shack (1976) by Ernie Barnes (1938 - 2009). Last year, the African-American painter set a new auction record at $550,000. But on 12 May this year, Christie's proposed his painting The Sugar Shack (1976) in New York with an estimate of $150,000 - $200,000. The work finally sold for $15,275,000, more than 100 times the low estimate. In the days and weeks that followed, six more important Ernie Barnes paintings were offered at Christie's and Bonhams, and they all sold well beyond their estimates.
Last year, the Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama became the first female artist to enter the world's Top 10 performing artists as calculated by Artprice (all periods of creation combined). She was also the third best performing living artist of the year behind Gerhard Richter and Banksy. This year, Yayoi Kusama has repeated that performance with 208 lots sold worldwide for more than $115 million. She also set a new auction record when her Untitled (Nets) (1959) reached $10.5 million at Phillips on 18 May 2022.
Matthew Wong would have been 38 if he hadn't taken his own life in 2019. Since his death, his paintings have enjoyed stunning success in auction rooms. On 19 May 2022, his Night Watcher (2018) was acquired for $5.9 million at Christie's New York. In H1 2022, Matthew Wong ranked 52nd in the global ranking of artists by auction turnover (all periods of creation combined), a success that has a certain Basquiat flavor to it, even if Wong's place in art history has not yet been recognized.
Read Artprice.com's H1 2022 Global Art Market Report online at:
The information and econometric studies produced by Artmarket.com are presented uniquely for the purpose of analyzing and understanding the statistical realities of the art market and should in no way be considered as advice or a suggestion or a solicitation to invest in the art market.
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See certified biography in Who's who ©:
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Artmarket is a global player in the Art Market with, among other structures, its Artprice department, world leader in the accumulation, management and exploitation of historical and current art market information in databanks containing over 30 million indices and auction results, covering more than 787,000 artists.
Artprice by Artmarket, the world leader in information on the art market, has set itself the ambition through its Global Standardized Marketplace to be the world's leading Fine Art NFT platform.
Artprice Images® allows unlimited access to the largest Art Market image bank in the world: no less than 180 million digital images of photographs or engraved reproductions of artworks from 1700 to the present day, commented by our art historians.
Artmarket with its Artprice department accumulates data on a permanent basis from 6300 Auction Houses and produces key Art Market information for the main press and media agencies (7,200 publications). Its 5.4 million ('members log in'+social media) users have access to ads posted by other members, a network that today represents the leading Global Standardized Marketplace® to buy and sell artworks at a fixed or bid price (auctions regulated by paragraphs 2 and 3 of Article L 321.3 of France's Commercial Code).
Artmarket with its Artprice department, has been awarded the State label "Innovative Company" by the Public Investment Bank (BPI) (for the second time in November 2018 for a new period of 3 years) which is supporting the company in its project to consolidate its position as a global player in the market art.
Artprice by Artmarket's 2020 Global Art Market Report published in March 2022:
https://www.artprice.com/artprice-reports/the-art-market-in-2021
Artprice's 2020/21 Contemporary Art Market Report by Artmarket.com:
https://www.artprice.com/artprice-reports/the-contemporary-art-market-report-2021
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– New Soccer Offerings Follow Successful Ventures into Football, Baseball, and Softball, Where Signing Day Sports Continues to Create Impactful Change in Equitable Recruiting –
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., June 28, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Signing Day Sports the digital ecosystem that helps athletes get discovered and recruited for college sports by coaches across the country, announced today an expansion into men's and women's soccer, spearheaded by a roster of professional soccer ambassadors including USWNT standout and OL Reign Defender Sofia Huerta, Canadian Women's National Team star and Portland Thorns FC forward Janine Beckie and 12-year MLS veteran Brad Evans.
With this expansion, men's and women's high school soccer players, high school coaches, and college coaches now have access to Signing Day Sports' innovative platform that is revolutionizing the recruiting process for student-athletes and high school and college coaches alike. Signing Day Sports boasts almost 150,000 student-athlete profiles on the platform across all sports, in addition to thousands of high school coaches and college coaches representing more than 220 Div. I, II, III, and NAIA schools nationwide.
"Our goal at Signing Day Sports is to always help student-athletes maximize their potential in the recruitment process through the unmatched access and expanded networks we have," said John Dorsey, Signing Day Sports CEO. "We've already seen the difference our technology makes for student-athletes and coaches in football, baseball, and softball recruiting and are thrilled to expand our platform to cater to men's and women's soccer as we continue to impact the future of college sports recruiting."
As part of this launch, Signing Day Sports has signed notable professional soccer stars in Huerta, Beckie, and Evans as ambassadors, who will share their college recruiting stories and spread awareness for Signing Day Sports' expansion into men's and women's soccer. In addition to the soccer ambassadors, men's and women's soccer college coaches representing all Power Five Conferences – and several others across Div. I, II, III and NAIA – are now active on Signing Day Sports, including those leading teams ranked within the NCAA top 20 men's and women's programs.
"I've been lucky enough to take the sport I love and turn it into a career following successful collegiate and club stints. Teaming up with Signing Day Sports to raise awareness for the platform's innovative technology that makes collegiate soccer more accessible to those who want to continue playing was a no-brainer for me," said Huerta. "I want other student-athletes who are passionate about the game to have the opportunity to recognize their full potential and extend their careers through college and beyond."
Signing Day Sports was founded in 2020 by a group of former professional athletes and coaches who saw the need to improve the antiquated college sports recruiting landscape. Student-athletes have the ability to upload video-verified measurables and testing, official fundamental and drill recordings, game schedules and stats, and interview questions to highlight the intangibles of their athletic character all in one app. High School and club coaches can manage rosters and depth charts, communicate internally with players and staff, remain aware of recruiting communications, and advocate for their athletes all in one place. College coaches and scouts can find recruits that meet any level of criteria, can plan out recruiting classes for years to come, and can trust and evaluate talent through video-verification and analysis in one single platform. With Signing Day Sports, more athletes, coaches, and recruiters will be able to find each other than ever before, facilitating and leading to more offers, scholarships, and successful programs on a national scale.
Signing Day Sports is a digital ecosystem that helps athletes get discovered and recruited for college sports by coaches across the country. Signing Day Sports was founded by a group of former professional athletes and coaches who saw the need to improve the college sports recruiting landscape. Founded in 2020, the firm is experiencing explosive growth as more coaches, parents and student athletes embrace Signing Day Sports as a trustworthy platform to showcase athletic skill and talent. To learn more, visit www.signingdaysports.com or follow Signing Day Sports on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok and YouTube.
Media Contact
Shannon Donohue: signingdaysports@berkcommunications.com
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Baird equity research analyst Ben Kallo initiated coverage with a price target of $8
NEW YORK, Sept. 12, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Swvl Holdings Corp ("Swvl" or the "Company") (NASDAQ: SWVL), a global provider of transformative tech-enabled mass transit solutions, today announced that Baird has initiated coverage on the Company with "Outperform" Rating and price target substantially higher than Swvl's current trading price.
Copies of the full analyst report can be obtained directly from Baird.
Mostafa Kandil, Swvl Founder and CEO, said, "We are grateful to see institutional research analysts take notice of what we believe to be another record-breaking quarter in Q2 where we grew revenues 3.4x year on year while improving profitability in line with our expectation to turn cash flow positive in 2023 and we achieved multiple strategic milestones including organic SaaS launches in Kuwait and Brazil and completed our acquisitions of Urbvan, Volt Lines and door2door."
Youssef Salem, Swvl CFO, said, "With a well-capitalized balance sheet after raising $29m in early Q3, a clear roadmap to cashflow generation next year, the completion of several recent acquisitions, integrated and significant revenue and cost synergies being realized, continued month-on-month organic growth, lock-up agreements extended by 31 shareholders and executives and now additional equity research initiation, we believe that we are at an inflection point in our shareholder value maximization journey. We look forward to additional research coverage initiation soon."
All reports on Swvl prepared by analysts represent the views of such analysts and are not necessarily those of Swvl. Swvl is not responsible for the content, accuracy or timelines provided by analysts. Swvl does not expressly or by implication warrant or assume any legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, completeness, or usefulness of any information, assumption, data, forecast, price target, estimate or projection contained in the reports or industry notes provided by analysts, and the dissemination of such reports or industry notes does not necessarily constitute or imply the Company's endorsement or recommendation.
About Swvl
Swvl is a global provider of transformative tech-enabled mass transit solutions, offering intercity, intracity, B2B and B2G transportation across > 20 countries. The Company's platform provides complimentary semi-private alternatives to public transportation for individuals who cannot access or afford private options. Every day, Swvl's parallel mass transit systems are empowering individuals to go where they want, when they want – making mobility safer, more efficient, accessible, and environmentally friendly. Customers can book their rides on an easy-to-use proprietary app with varied payment options and 24 / 7 access to high-quality private buses and vans.
Swvl was co-founded by Mostafa Kandil, who began his career at Rocket Internet, where he launched the car sales platform Carmudi in the Philippines, which became the largest car classifieds company in the country in just six months. He then served as Rocket Internet's Head of Operations. In 2016, Kandil joined Careem, a ride-sharing company and the first unicorn in the Middle East. He supported the platform's expansion into multiple new markets.
For additional information about Swvl, please visit www.swvl.com.
Forward-Looking Statements
Certain statements made herein are not historical facts but are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements generally are accompanied by words such as "believe," "may," "will," "estimate," "continue," "anticipate," "intend," "expect," "should," "would," "plan," "predict," "potential," "seem," "seek," "future," "outlook" and similar expressions that predict or indicate future events or trends or that are not statements of historical matters. These forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding future events and other statements that are not historical facts.
These statements are based on the current expectations of Swvl's management and are not predictions of actual performance. These forward-looking statements are provided for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to serve as, and must not be relied on, by any investor as a guarantee, an assurance, a prediction or a definitive statement of fact or probability. Actual events and circumstances are difficult or impossible to predict and will differ from assumptions. Many actual events and circumstances are beyond the control of Swvl. These statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties regarding Swvl's business, and actual results may differ materially. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: general economic, political and business conditions, including but not limited to the economic and operational disruptions and other effects of the COVID-19 pandemic; the ability of Swvl to execute its growth strategy, manage growth profitably and retain its key employees; competition with other companies in the mobility industry; Swvl's limited operating history and lack of experience as a public company; recent implementation of certain policies and procedures to ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations, including with respect to anti-bribery, anti-corruption, and cyber protection; the risk that Swvl is not able to execute its portfolio optimization plan; the risk that Swvl is unable to attract and retain consumers and qualified drivers and other high quality personnel; the risk that Swvl is unable to protect and enforce its intellectual property rights; the risk that Swvl is unable to determine rider demand to develop new offerings on its platform; the difficulty of obtaining required registrations, licenses, permits or approvals in jurisdictions in which Swvl currently operates or may in the future operate; the fact that Swvl currently operates in and intends to expand into jurisdictions that are, or have been, characterized by political instability, may have inadequate or limited regulatory and legal frameworks and may have limited, if any, treaties or other arrangements in place to protect foreign investment or involvement; the risk that Swvl's drivers could be classified as employees, workers or quasi-employees in the jurisdictions they operate; the fact that Swvl has operations in countries known to experience high levels of corruption and is subject to territorial anti-corruption laws in these jurisdictions; the ability of Swvl to maintain the listing of its securities on Nasdaq; Swvl's acquisitions may not be beneficial to Swvl as a result of the cost of integrating geographically disparate operations and the diversion of management's attention from its existing business, among other things; and other risks that will be detailed from time to time in filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. The foregoing list of risk factors is not exhaustive. There may be additional risks that Swvl presently does not know or that Swvl currently believes are immaterial that could also cause actual results to differ from those contained in forward-looking statements. In addition, forward-looking statements provide Swvl's expectations, plans or forecasts of future events and views as of the date of this communication. Swvl anticipates that subsequent events and developments will cause Swvl's assessments and projections to change. However, while Swvl may elect to update these forward-looking statements in the future, Swvl specifically disclaims any obligation to do so. These forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as representing Swvl's assessments as of any date subsequent to the date of this communication. Accordingly, undue reliance should not be placed upon the forward-looking statements.
Investor Contact
Youssef Salem
Swvl CFO
Investor.relations@swvl.com
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SOURCE Swvl Holdings Corp | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/09/12/swvl-announces-initiation-equity-analyst-coverage-by-baird-with-outperform-rating/ | 2022-09-12T12:48:03Z |
SECOND QUARTER ACHIEVEMENTS
- During a transformative second quarter, Sigma Lithium significantly increased the scale of the Project:
- Sigma Lithium continued to achieve construction milestones, advancing towards production:
- Sigma Lithium reinforced its dedication to supporting local communities:
- Sigma Lithium appointed Brian Talbot to the leadership team as Chief Operating Officer, completing the key appointments in preparation for operational readiness for production and for the final stage of construction prior to commissioning:
VANCOUVER, BC, Aug. 19, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- SIGMA Lithium Corporation ("Sigma Lithium" or the "Company") (NASDAQ: SGML, TSXV: SGML), dedicated to powering the next generation of electric vehicles with environmentally sustainable and high-purity lithium, is pleased to provide a corporate update from a transformative second quarter of 2022.
Sigma Lithium ended the quarter with C$123.3 million in cash and cash equivalents as of June 30, 2022, providing sufficient liquidity to advance the Grota do Cirilo Project (the "Project") into production. Phase 1 construction at the Project remains on track with commissioning expected to begin December 2022.
COMMENTS FROM MANAGEMENT
From Ana Cabral-Gardner, Co-CEO of Sigma Lithium. "We are delighted to have further strengthened our operational team by adding industry-leading executives, rounding out a world-class management team at Sigma Lithium. Having achieved all of our execution milestones to date, delivering a transformational quarter demonstrates the ability of this team to drive us in our successful trajectory to become a global protagonist in lithium minerals for electric vehicle batteries"
From Calvyn Gardner, Co-CEO of Sigma Lithium: "We are very enthusiastic to have recruited Brian, an exceptional, high-caliber individual who has already made his mark at Allkem (Galaxy Resources) over the past ~6 years as COO. Brian has significant experience in operating integrated lithium processing and mining companies. He has a remarkable track record in driving production growth and scalability, as Sigma Lithium prepares to deliver in rapid succession Phase 1, Phase 2 and Phase 3".
Ana adds: "We are delighted that Brian Talbot has accepted the Board's offer to become Sigma Lithium's next COO, following a comprehensive international search process that yielded some outstanding candidates. Calvyn and Brian have been working together since October 2021, successfully executing the design and detailed engineering of Sigma's environmentally sustainable lithium processing plant. As COO, Brian will now undertake a critical operational role in the Company, moving permanently to Vale do Jequitinhonha in Brazil to the site of Sigma Lithium operations and construction, physically sitting side-by-side with Calvyn in order to further increase and facilitate seamless interactions and collaboration."
UPCOMING EVENTS
- On September 14, Sigma Lithium will host an Investor Day event at the NASDAQ headquarters in New York City, followed by a Closing Bell Ceremony in celebration of the Company's one year anniversary of NASDAQ listing and 10-year anniversary since the Company was founded by Co-CEO Calvyn Gardner
- Sigma Lithium will also be a sponsor and panelist of the Brazil Climate Summit hosted by Columbia University in New York on September 15-16
- The Company is very honored to have been invited to be a speaker by the Financial Times for the Commodities Mining Summit to be held in person in London on October 20. Sigma Lithium co-CEO will join prominent CEOs in the industry, including Anglo American, BHP, Vale, Antofagasta
PROJECT UPDATE
During the second quarter of 2022, Sigma Lithium made significant strides in advancing the Grota do Cirilo Project, including:
- Filing the National Instrument 43-101 ("NI 43-101") Feasibility Study for Phase 1 and Pre-Feasibility Study for Phase 2 of the Project on May 25, 2022, which outlined a combined after-tax NPV of US$5.1 billion.
- Announcing the NI 43-101 Phase 3 mineral resource estimate, which increased the Project's total mineral resource estimate by ~50% to 86 Mt (comprised of 73.6 Mt of measured and indicated resources grading at 1.43% Li2O and 12.1 Mt of inferred resources grading at 1.45% Li2O).
- Receiving the extension of an environmental license on June 27, 2022 to allow for the simultaneous mining of the north and south pit at Phase 1 of the Project:
- Commencing pre-stripping of the Phase 1 north pit on June 20, 2022.
- Establishing a microcredit program targeted for 500 local female entrepreneurs.
- Delivering 6,000 food baskets as part of its "Zero Hunger Action" initiative (7,000 food baskets pledged to be donated during 2022).
- Continuing to deliver on its "Homecoming Employment Program" initiative with ~70% of the >350 person workforce coming from the Vale do Jequitinhonha region where we operate.
- Further developing the "Education Program for Mining Technicians" program with 40 slots being offered.
- Continuing to provide support for two childcare centers in the municipalities where we operate that serve ~560 children, with 217 liters of liquid soap, 543 liters of shampoo, 490 toothbrushes, 29,700 diapers, and 62,600 napkins delivered.
MANAGEMENT UPDATE
Sigma Lithium was delighted to appointed Brian Talbot to the leadership team as Chief Operating Officer, completing the key appointments in preparation for operational readiness for production and for final stage of construction prior to commissioning.
- Mr. Talbot is a proven and experienced operator, who exceled in metallurgical processing, mine operations and development in his previous roles. having held leadership roles at successful lithium pioneer producers for over a decade, including Galaxy Resources (now Allkem) and Bakita (now Sinomine Resource Group).
- He holds a bachelor's degree in chemical engineering with Honours from University of Witwatersrand.
As the Company rapidly prepares for operational readiness and quickly advances towards the initiation of commissioning of the Phase 1 plant, Brian Talbot joins the team of executives working with the co-CEOs in the management committee at Sigma Lithium, as follows:
- Maria Salum, Chief Sustainability Officer
Remarkable 40-year technical career in prominent public and private ESG-centric roles in Brazil including Director of Sustainable Development in Mining at the Ministry of Mines and Energy and Senior Representative for the Ministry at the National Council for the Environment. In the private sector, Mrs. Salum was a leading consultant, advising some of the largest global mining companies on environmental matters in Brazil.
- Felipe Peres, Chief Financial Officer
An expert in international accounting and financial performance management with over 20 years of experience working in senior corporate positions at globally recognized multinational companies in the oil, steel and mining sectors including Vale, Shell and CSN.
- Jamie Flegg, Chief Development Officer
Experienced mining capital markets executive with a background in private equity and investment banking. Most recently, led deal origination, structuring and execution from investment to exit at Waterton Global, a leading global mining private equity platform with $1.75B in AUM.
- Rodrigo Roso, Chief Legal Officer
A career spanning over 14 years at a prestigious law firm in Brazil, culminating as co-head of the Energy & Infrastructure transactional practice. Most recently, a senior executive of a high-growth venture company, from inception to ultimately reaching unicorn status, a portfolio company of General Atlantic.
- Marina Bernardini, Chief Commercial Officer (Interim)
A manager in the commercial department since 2018, working alongside Ana Cabral-Gardner and instrumental in designing Sigma Lithium's innovative chemical refining commercial tolling structure, which has become the new paradigm for commercial relationships in the lithium supply chain. A lawyer with nearly a decade of hands-on legal and management experience which includes M&A, contracts, regulatory, corporate & government affairs, natural resources, agribusiness, and oil & gas.
- Germano Vieira, Senior Advisor to the Board for Environmental & Sustainability Affairs
A lawyer with over 10 years of technical legal and environmental roles including prominent positions such as Chief Prosecutor of the Minas Gerais Water Management Institute and Chief of Staff of the State Foundation for the Environment. Germano has been leading the environmental department since October 2021, working alongside Maria Jose Salum. On that role, he has been instrumental in designing Sigma Lithium's environmental policies and practices and has been leading the technical execution of the Company environmental licensing.
Sigma Lithium has also conducted key hires of directors and managers in the critical departments of project management, metallurgy, processing and mining operations to support the COO and co-CEO. These experienced executives have stellar track record with professional experience in large companies such as: SNC Lavalin, Nexa Resources and Ausenco
CONSTRUCTION UPDATE
Sigma Lithium continued to advance construction of the Phase 1 production plant and mine during the second quarter of 2022, maintaining its target of initiating commissioning by the end of 2022 and achieving the following significant milestones:
- General progress of project construction is ~32% compared to a baseline of ~40%.
- Critical areas of detailed engineering including project management, platework, process design and mechanical are 94% complete or greater, as per figure 1 below.
- Other key areas of detailed engineering including structural, electrical and concrete, are 76 - 80% complete.
- Commenced activities to prepare for mining of the Phase 1 deposit, opening the pit ("pre stripping"). The lithium ore to be produced from the mine will be the feedstock of the greentech lithium processing production plant.
- Initiated electromechanical assembly and plant pre-fabrication offsite, with parts arriving for assembly on site in August 2022.
In addition, the construction team is currently focused on completing the following key workstreams:
- Civil construction of foundations for the installation of the equipment components of the Production Plant (crushing plant area, dense media separation plant).
- Civil construction of the run of mine ("ROM") pad and ROM wall.
- Construction of the Company's own high voltage substation on site.
- Fabrication of platework and steel structure at vendors sites.
QUALIFIED PERSONS
Mr. Wes Roberts, P.Eng., a member of the technical committee of the Company, is the "qualified person" under NI 43-101 who reviewed and approved the other technical information included in this news release.
ABOUT SIGMA LITHIUM CORPORATION
Sigma Lithium (NASDAQ: SGML, TSXV: SGML) is a Canadian company dedicated to powering the next generation of electric vehicle batteries with environmentally sustainable and high-purity lithium.
Sigma Lithium is currently in construction at its wholly owned Grota do Cirilo Project in Brazil, the largest lithium hard rock project in the Americas and one of the largest and highest purity lithium projects in the world. The lithium will be processed in a state-of-the-art, green-tech processing plant that uses 100% renewable energy, 100% recycled water and 100% dry-stack tailings. Since inception, Sigma Lithium has devoted itself to strong ESG practices, from its ongoing support of local communities to its goal of achieving net zero by 2024. For more information about Sigma Lithium, visit https://www.sigmalithiumresources.com/
Sigma Lithium
Sigma Lithium
@sigmalithium
@SigmaLithium
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This news release includes certain "forward-looking information" under applicable Canadian and U.S. securities legislation, including but not limited to statements relating to the timing of commissioning of the Project, the general business and operational outlook of the Company, and other forward-looking information. All statements that address future plans, activities, events, estimates, expectations or developments that the Company believes, expects or anticipates will or may occur is forward-looking information, including statements regarding the potential development of mineral resources and mineral reserves which may or may not occur. Forward-looking information contained herein is based on certain assumptions regarding, among other things: general economic and political conditions; the stable and supportive legislative, regulatory and community environment in the jurisdictions where the Company operates (including that the Company will obtain all licenses and approvals required); anticipated trends and effects in respect of the COVID-19 pandemic and post-pandemic; the military conflict in Ukraine and related sanctions; demand for lithium, including that such demand is supported by growth in the electric vehicle market; the Company's market position and future financial and operating performance; the Company's estimates of mineral resources and mineral reserves, including whether mineral resources will ever be developed into mineral reserves; and the Company's ability to develop and achieve production at its mineral projects. Although management believes that the assumptions and expectations reflected in the forward-looking information are reasonable, there can be no assurance that these assumptions and expectations will prove to be correct. Forward-looking information inherently involves and is subject to risks and uncertainties, including but not limited to that the Company may not develop its mineral projects into a commercial mining operation; the market prices for lithium may not remain at current levels; and the market for electric vehicles and other large format batteries currently has limited market share and no assurances can be given for the rate at which this market will develop, if at all, which could affect the success of the Company and its ability to develop lithium operations. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether because of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. For more information on the risks, uncertainties and assumptions that could cause our actual results to differ from current expectations, please refer to the current annual information form of the Company and other public filings available under the Company's profile at www.sedar.com.
Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.
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SOURCE Sigma Lithium | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/08/19/sigma-lithium-provides-update-transformative-second-quarter-appoints-coo-operational-readiness-preparing-phase-1-pit-mining/ | 2022-08-19T16:47:03Z |
Trump White House counsel Cipollone meets with Jan. 6 panel
WASHINGTON (AP) — Former White House counsel Pat Cipollone arrived Friday on Capitol Hill for a private interview with the Jan. 6 committee about his role trying to prevent then-President Donald Trump from challenging the 2020 presidential election and joining the violent mob that laid siege to the Capitol.
Cipollone had been a sought-after witness after bombshell testimony revealed his apparently desperate and last-ditch efforts to prevent Trump’s actions. The panel was told he warned the defeated president would be charged with “every crime imaginable” if he went to the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, trying to stop the certification of Joe Biden’s election. He was subpoenaed for his testimony.
But the conservative attorney, once a staunch presidential confidant who had defended Trump during his first impeachment trial, had been reluctant to appear formally for an on-record interview. Like other former White House officials, he could claim his counsel to the Republican president is privileged information he is unwilling to share.
The panel said Cipollone is “uniquely positioned to testify” in a letter accompanying the subpoena issued last week.
“Mr. Cipollone repeatedly raised legal and other concerns about President Trump’s activities on January 6th and in the days that preceded,” Chairman Bennie Thompson, D-Miss., said in a statement. “While the Select Committee appreciates Mr. Cipollone’s earlier informal engagement with our investigation, the committee needs to hear from him on the record, as other former White House counsels have done in other congressional investigations.”
Cipollone’s central role came into focus during a surprise committee hearing last week when former White House aide Cassidy Hutchinson described his repeated efforts to stop Trump from joining the mob at the Capitol.
Hutchinson said Cipollone urged her to persuade her boss, chief of staff Mark Meadows, not to let Trump go to the Capitol.
Hutchinson testified that she was told Trump was irate when he was ultimately prevented by his security team from going to the Capitol that day. The Secret Service has disputed parts of her account detailing Trump’s actions when she said he lashed out at the driver in the presidential motorcade.
Cipollone was also part of a key meeting on the Sunday before the Jan. 6 attack with Justice Department officials at the White House threatening to resign if Trump went ahead with plans to install a new acting attorney general who would pursue his false claims of voter fraud.
Cipollone and his lawyer, Michael Purpura, who also worked at the Trump White House, did not respond to requests for comment.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | https://www.wibw.com/2022/07/08/trump-white-house-counsel-cipollone-meets-with-jan-6-panel/ | 2022-07-08T14:45:19Z |
Intent-led Conversational ABM platform supports the shift for B2B sales and marketing teams to focus on Opportunities
WILMINGTON, Del., June 6, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- SalesboxAI. a Conversational ABM platform, has partnered with Leadsift, a leading buyer intent data platform, to make it easy for customers to fuel their AI-powered revenue engine with high-intent opportunities along with their buying committee members.
The strategic partnership enables B2B revenue teams to detect high-intent buying groups for acquisition, retention, cross-sell, and upsell opportunities and engage in account-centric conversations using AI Assistants.
"B2B revenue teams need to detect and manage every opportunity across their waterfall. This integration allows us to reach and engage IT buyers from within active opportunities at scale," said Alex Roy, founder of SalesboxAI.
"Intent data alone won't improve your results. It needs the right activation and engagement strategy," said LeadSift Co-founder and CEOTukan Das. "The SalesboxAI platform makes it easy for teams to engage every opportunity in research mode with AI Assistants that continuously look for ways to convert pipeline into revenue," he said.
"Now, teams can double down on the buying committee members that are most engaged and score and prioritize opportunities across the waterfall," said Alex, "This will allow them to maximize opportunities across every account and accelerate revenue growth," he said.
For B2B organizations that want to learn more about the integration and how it can accelerate their revenue engine, the Founders will be hosting a Live Q&A on June 15, 2022 at 11 AM PDT. To join the discussion and see the data in action, register here.
LeadSift is an intent data platform helping B2B technologies companies identify in-market buyers at the contact level and engage with them with relevant messaging. Moving beyond targeting by static profile elements like title or company size, LeadSift shows you who is engaging with competitors, keywords, and events that are relevant to your company from the public web. Learn more about LeadSift.
SalesboxAI's Conversational ABM platform helps B2B sales and marketing teams accelerate revenue. From a unified platform, AI Assistants listen for intent, identify active opportunities along with the buying committee members, engage in conversations, and track results across the Revenue Waterfall. With SalesboxAI, revenue teams can easily launch AI Assistants to create, manage, and prioritize opportunity-level engagement, intent-based leads, and buying committee members for every opportunity. To learn more, visit salesbox.ai.
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SOURCE SalesboxAI | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/06/06/salesboxai-partners-with-leadsift-enable-b2b-revenue-waterfall-amp-accelerate-sales/ | 2022-06-06T20:31:28Z |
Upcoming events in Central Texas this weekend include the Temple Civic Theatre production of “Inherit the Wind,” a Rockin’ Rotary concert featuring the Hair Metal Giants in downtown Belton, and more.
‘Inherit the Wind’ at Temple Civic Theatre
Temple Civic Theatre will present “Inherit the Wind” this weekend with performances 7:30 p.m. today, Friday and Saturday, and 2:30 p.m. Sunday.
The setting of the play is at a courthouse in Hillsboro, a small Southern town. Bertram Cates is behind bars, awaiting trial for teaching his students about Darwin’s theory of evolution. Matthew Harrison Brady, a famous former presidential candidate, comes to Hillsboro to argue the case against Cates. Henry Drummond, a famous progressive lawyer, travels to Hillsboro from Chicago to defend Cates. This is the play that had its genesis in the events of the famous Scopes trial in which the teaching of creationism came head to head against the teaching of the theory of evolution.
Tickets are $20 for adults and $12 for students. The box office is open from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and one hour before each performance. The theater is located at 2413 S. 13th St. in Temple. For information call 254-778-4751.
Storywalk program
The city of Belton announced that a new Storywalk program will be available this weekend at the Nolan Creek Hike and Bike Trail in Belton.
The program, which takes place several times a year, will feature the book “Pete the Cat and the Itsy-Bitsy Spider” by James Dean and will be available Friday through Monday. April 8-11.
Those wishing to participate may park at Harris Community Park, go down to the hike and bike trail, and turn right.
“Storywalk is a way to combine literacy and exercise and is a great activity for families,” city officials said in a news release.
Bunny Bash
Bunny Bash, an event featuring arts, crafts and Easter egg hunting, will take place 10-11:30 a.m. Thursday, April 14, at the Gober Party House, 1516 W. Ave. H in Temple.
Pre-registration is required. For information call 254-298-5690.
Kiddo Card event
The Temple Police Department will host a Kiddo Card event from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday at Black Rifle Coffee Company, 111 N. General Bruce Drive in Temple.
Officers will issue free ID cards to children ages 2-15. A parent or guardian must be present for each participating child. The card includes the child’s current photo, basic information, physical characteristics, thumbprint and emergency contact details.
Businesses are encouraged to host a Kiddo Card event. For details, contact Officer Cody Close at 254-298-5911.
Downtown Temple market day
The Temple Small Business Coalition will host a downtown market day from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday at the City Hall parking lot at 2 N. Main St. in Temple.
The market will feature a variety of vendors selling arts, crafts, fresh produce, and more.
Special events at Corkys
Corkys Wine and Beer, 13 S. Second St. in downtown Temple, will host several special events this weekend.
A comedy showcase will take place 8 p.m. Saturday. Tickets are $15 for general admission and $25 for VIP seats.
Corkys will host “An Evening with Madame’ Brazil,” a drag show, 6 p.m. Sunday. Madame Brazil will be accompanied by Meghan Iman Dlux, Marko Ross, Marilyn Williams and local emcee Enrique-Antonio.
Spill the Tea
“Spill the Tea,” a queer social event, will take place 6:30 p.m. Friday at FoxDog beer garden, 209 N. Seventh St. in Temple.
The event is open to all LGBTQIA people and supporters. Attendees will have the chance to socialize and discuss topics such as queer history and activism.
Live music
Bobby Dean and Timeless Country will perform at a country and western dance 6:30 p.m. today at the Belton Senior Activity Center, 842 Mitchell St. in Belton.
The Hair Metal Giants will perform at Rockin’ Rotary, an outdoor concert set 5:30-10 p.m. Friday in the courthouse square in downtown Belton. The free event, which is hosted by the Rotary Club of Belton, also will feature prize drawings, food trucks, and beverages from local wineries and breweries. Bell County Motorsports also will have motorcycles on display.
Second Hand Rose will perform 8 p.m. Friday and Whiskey Renegade will perform 9 p.m. Saturday at Bo’s Barn Dancehall, 4984 W. FM 93 in Temple.
Nate Guthrie will perform 6 p.m. Friday, Tumbleweed Hill will perform 7 p.m. Saturday, and Cody Ellinger will perform 4 p.m. Sunday at Barrow Brewing Co., 108 Royal St. in Salado.
Jerry Haisler and the Melody 5 will perform at 6 p.m. on Sunday at Tom Sefcik Hall, 800 Seaton Road in Temple.
The McClennan Community College Choirs will present a concert, “Our Journey from Wandering Love” 7 p.m. Monday in the sanctuary at First United Methodist Church, 102 N. 2nd St. in Temple. Pipe organist Dr. Carl Bradley and Gail Wade will join the choirs for selected pieces. The concert is free and open to the public.
Fundraisers
Flavor Fest
Amy’s Attic Self Storage, 7950 State Highway 317 in Belton, will host “Flavor Fest 2022,” a fundraiser benefiting Hope for the Hungry, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday. The family friendly event will feature 60 food trucks and vendors, inflatables and children’s activities. Entry is free. Hope for the Hungry is a non-profit group that assists children and families locally and globally. The goal of the group is to provide meals to children locally, in Haiti, Mexico and in response to natural disasters.
Knights of Columbus No. 3444 fish fry
The Knights of Columbus Council No. 3444 and KJT Society No. 114 will hold a fish fry 5-7 p.m. Friday at the KC Hall at 2218 W. Ave. D in Temple.
Plates cost $12 each and include two boneless fish fillets, three sides and a drink (baked fish will be available). A child’s plate, which features one fillet, costs $7. Desserts will be available for purchase. To-go plates will be available.
Proceeds from the fish fry will benefit St. Mary’s Catholic School.
Knights of Columbus No. 7196 fish fry
The Knights of Columbus Council No. 7196 of Christ the King Catholic Church, 210 E. 24th Ave. in Belton, will hold a fish fry 5-7 p.m. Friday at the parish hall.
Plates cost $10 each and include choice of fried or grilled fish with fries, hushpuppies, beans and coleslaw. Patrons may dine in or get plates to-go. Children younger than 4 and first responders in uniform may dine for free.
Proceeds will support Knights of Columbus service projects.
Knights of Columbus No. 7197 fish fry
The Knights of Columbus Council No. 7197 of St. Luke Catholic Church, 2807 Oakdale Drive in Temple, will hold a fish fry 5-7 p.m. Friday at the parish hall.
Plates cost $12 each and include fried or grilled fish and sides. Uniformed emergency responders and children age 10 and younger may dine for free. Patrons may drive through or dine in. Proceeds will support Knights of Columbus service projects.
Crawfish boil in Temple
A crawfish boil benefiting Temple Fire & Rescue’s annual Rescue Elves program will take place from noon to 6 p.m. Saturday at Mo’s Rail Yard Saloon, 8 W. Ave. B in downtown Temple.
Plates are $20 each and include crawfish, sausage, corn and red potatoes. The event will include live music, axe throwing, street vendors and bounce houses for children.
Crawfish boil in Salado
The Masonic Lodges of District 48 will hold a crawfish boil from 11 a.m. until sold out on Saturday at Barrow Brewing Co., 108 Royal St. in Salado. Cost is $20 per person.
Proceeds from the event will help support scholarships, local charities and community service projects.
Submission guidelines: Events and fundraisers may be submitted by emailing living@tdtnews.com. All items are due by noon Monday. | https://www.tdtnews.com/entertainment/article_579b3090-b5b7-11ec-8762-bbf58b68130a.html | 2022-04-07T07:58:29Z |
SÃO PAULO, June 24, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- FS Luxembourg S.à r.l. (the "Issuer"), a wholly-owned finance subsidiary of FS Agrisolutions Indústria de Biocombustíveis Ltda. (the "Guarantor"), announces that it has commenced a solicitation of consents (the "Consent Solicitation") with respect to its outstanding US$654,176,000 aggregate principal amount of 10.00% senior secured notes due 2025, issued by the Issuer and guaranteed by the Guarantor (the "Notes"), for the adoption of proposed amendments (the "Proposed Amendments") to the indenture governing the Notes. The Proposed Amendments seek to, among other matters (i) allow one or more affiliates of the Guarantor to provide a "Guarantee" on the Notes and to become a guarantor of the Issuer's obligations under the indenture, (ii) amend the definitions of "Parent Entity Expenses" and "Capitalized Leased Obligation," (iii) make clarifying changes to the definition of "Permitted Investments" and to the exception to the limitation on indebtedness covenant and (iv) amend the clause with respect to "Restricted Payments," in each case as more fully set forth in the Consent Solicitation Statement, dated June 24, 2022 (as amended or supplemented from time to time, the "Statement").
The Consent Solicitation will expire at 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on June 30, 2022, unless extended or earlier terminated by the Issuer in its sole discretion (such date and time, as the same may be extended, the "Expiration Date").
Only holders of the Notes as of 5:00 p.m. (New York City time) on June 23, 2022 (such date and time, including as such date and time may be changed by the Issuer, from time to time, the "Record Date") are entitled to deliver consents to the Proposed Amendments pursuant to the Consent Solicitation. If the Holders of a majority in aggregate principal amount outstanding of the Notes (the "Required Consents") validly deliver Consents to the Proposed Amendments on or prior to the Expiration Date and do not validly revoke such Consents prior to the Revocation Deadline (as defined below), it is expected that the Issuer, the Guarantor, the trustee and the collateral agent will execute an amended and restated indenture (the "Amended and Restated Indenture") effecting the Proposed Amendments (such time, the "Consent Effective Time"). The earlier to occur of the Consent Effective Time and the Expiration Date is referred to as the "Revocation Deadline." The Amended and Restated Indenture will be effective and operative immediately upon execution thereof as to all Holders at the Consent Effective Time, whether or not a Holder delivered a Consent.
In the event that the Consent Effective Time has occurred, the Issuer will pay in cash, on the settlement date, which is expected to be two business days following the Expiration Date, a consent payment of US$10 per US$1,000 principal amount of Notes that represents the Consents validly delivered on or prior to the Expiration Date and not validly revoked prior to the Revocation Deadline.
The Issuer reserves the right to modify the Statement and the terms and conditions of the Consent Solicitation or to terminate the Consent Solicitation at any time.
Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC is acting as solicitation agent in the Consent Solicitation, and can be contacted at its telephone numbers set forth on the back cover page of the Statement with questions regarding the Consent Solicitation.
Copies of the Statement are available to holders of Notes from D.F. King & Co., Inc., the information agent, tabulation agent and paying agent for the Consent Solicitation. Requests for copies of the Statement should be directed to D.F. King at +1 (800) 714-3310 (toll free), +1 (212) 269-5550 (collect) or fsluxembourg@dfking.com.
Under no circumstances shall this press release constitute a solicitation of consents to the Proposed Amendments to the indenture. The Consent Solicitation is not being made to, nor will the Issuer accept deliveries of consents from, holders in any jurisdiction in which the Consent Solicitation or the acceptance thereof would not be in compliance with the securities or blue sky laws of such jurisdiction.
This press release contains forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are information of a non-historical nature or that relate to future events and are subject to risks and uncertainties. No assurance can be given that the transactions described in this press release will be consummated or as to the ultimate terms of any such transactions. Neither the Issuer nor the Guarantor undertakes any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information or future events or for any other reason.
This press release must be read in conjunction with the Statement. This announcement and the Statement contain important information that must be read carefully before any decision is made with respect to the Consent Solicitation. If any holder of Notes is in any doubt as to the action it should take, it is recommended to seek its own legal, tax, accounting and financial advice, including as to any tax consequences, immediately from its stockbroker, bank manager, attorney, accountant or other independent financial or legal adviser. Any individual or company whose Notes are held on its behalf by a broker, dealer, bank, custodian, trust company or other nominee or intermediary must contact such entity if it wishes to participate in the Consent Solicitation. None of the Issuer, the Guarantor, the solicitation agent, the information, tabulation and paying agent, or any person who controls, or is a director, officer, employee or agent of such persons, or any affiliate of such persons, makes any recommendation as to whether holders of Notes should participate in the Consent Solicitation.
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SOURCE FS Luxembourg S.à r.l. | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/06/24/fs-luxembourg-s-rl-announces-consent-solicitation/ | 2022-06-24T22:22:48Z |
Bucks remain mum on Middleton’s status for Celtics series
MILWAUKEE (AP) — Milwaukee Bucks coach Mike Budenholzer offered no new details Friday on Khris Middleton’s potential availability for the defending champions’ Eastern Conference semifinal matchup with the Boston Celtics. Middleton had said a week ago that he hoped to come back from his knee injury in two weeks. That means he would miss at least the first two games of the Celtics series. Whether he’d actually be able to return that soon remains uncertain. Middleton hasn’t played since spraining the medial collateral ligament in his left knee April 20 in Game 2 of the Bucks’ first-round series with the Chicago Bulls. | https://localnews8.com/sports/ap-national-sports/2022/04/29/bucks-remain-mum-on-middletons-status-for-celtics-series/ | 2022-04-30T00:19:53Z |
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Jurors began deliberations Thursday in a trial over former reality television star Blac Chyna’s lawsuit against Kim Kardashian, Kris Jenner, Khloé Kardashian and Kylie Jenner, whom she alleges spread false stories of abuse to ruin her television career.
In her closing argument, Chyna’s attorney Lynne Ciani argued that it was unreasonable for the four women to have believed that her client violently attacked her former fiancé Rob Kardashian.
“Forget who they are; forget about how famous they are,” Ciani told the jury. “Was it reasonable for the defendants to believe that their son or brother’s version of the events that he had been brutally attacked?”
In emotional and often angry testimony, Rob Kardashian said during the trial that he feared for his life on the night of Dec. 14 and morning of Dec. 15, 2016, when Chyna twice pointed a gun at his head, pulled a phone-charging cable around his neck and repeatedly hit him with a metal rod while under the influence of alcohol and cocaine.
He testified that the violence left no visible injuries, nor did he report the attack to anyone, and his mother and sisters said the same when each took the stand.
“He didn’t have a mark on him,” Ciani said. “There was no call to the police, no trip to the hospital, not even a Band-Aid.”
Chyna is suing the four women for defamation and interference with contract, alleging they sought to get the couple’s “Keeping Up With the Kardashians” spinoff “Rob & Chyna,” canceled before its second season.
Kardashian attorney David G. Rhodes argued during his closing that the women had every reason to believe the accounts of the attack from Rob Kardashian and from Kris Jenner’s longtime boyfriend Corey Gamble, who arrived at the scene, broke up the dispute and was a key defense witness.
“Do you remember how Rob looked on the stand yesterday? His pain was real,” Rhodes said. “This is a real family. Yeah, they’re famous, but they’re real people. He got really badly hurt here.”
All four of the defendants were in the front row of the courtroom for closing arguments, as they were for most of the nine-day trial.
Kim Kardashian’s boyfriend, “Saturday Night Live” star Pete Davidson, sat in the back of the courtroom during closings and greeted her with a hug and a kiss in the hallway outside before they and the rest of the family were ushered by deputies into a private waiting area they’ve used throughout the trial.
In her testimony, Chyna said that an all-night celebration of the announcement their show was getting a second season turned into a bitter fight when Rob Kardashian took her phone looking for evidence of communications with other men, but it never got violent.
She testified that she had wrapped the phone-charging cord around his neck playfully, and picked up his always unloaded gun off the nightstand, as a joke. She admitted that in her anger she broke some things.
“There was damage to a gingerbread house; there was a damaged TV,” Ciani said. “And that’s where it stopped.”
Rhodes zeroed in on the gingerbread house in his argument, in which he cast Chyna as a publicity-seeker desperate for a piece of what the Kardashians have.
“Why would you attack a gingerbread house in your rage? What does it represent?” Rhodes said. “It represents everything about the Kardashian brand — it’s over the top, it’s big, it’s beautiful, it’s almost silly, and when she saw that gingerbread house she was venting her anger on everything she was not going to be.”
Rhodes argued that regardless of what happened between the couple, the show ended because their relationship ended, as all the executives overseeing the show testified during the trial.
“It wasn’t her show,” Rhodes said. “It’s not the ‘Chyna and Rob’ show, it’s not ‘Chyna’ show, it’s the ‘Rob KARDASHIAN and Chyna’ show. It was a show about a relationship. That’s at the center of the whole case.”
Ciani and Rhodes both focused in their closing arguments on Kris Jenner, whom the lawsuit alleges was the “ringleader” of the attempt to shun Chyna.
The jury will need to decide whether her text message to the lead producer of “Rob & Chyna” saying “Chyna beat the s(asterisk)(asterisk)(asterisk) out of Rob’s face” was defamation.
“She’s not talking to the police. She’s not talking to someone to try to get medical help for her son. She’s talking to the showrunner,” Ciani said. “She knew it was false.”
Rhodes asked jurors to consider why Jenner would believe the attack happened.
“Because the man she was in bed with at 7 a.m. goes over there, comes back and says ‘Rob just had the s(asterisk)(asterisk)(asterisk) beat out of him,’” Rhodes said. “She sees her son and he says the same thing.”
In the civil case, nine out of 12 jurors will need to agree on whether each of the Kardashian defendants either knowingly lied about Chyna abusing Rob Kardashian, or spread the word about it with reckless disregard for the truth. The same number will need to decide whether each illegally interfered with Chyna’s contract with the E! network, which aired both “Rob & Chyna” and “Keeping Up With the Kardashians.”
___
Follow AP Entertainment Writer Andrew Dalton on Twitter: https://twitter.com/andyjamesdalton | https://cw33.com/entertainment-news/ap-entertainment/closing-arguments-to-start-in-blac-chyna-kardashians-trial/ | 2022-04-29T07:03:47Z |
MENLO PARK, Calif., Sept. 14, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- BGV announced today that its portfolio company Cryptosense, an innovator in cryptography management, has been acquired by SandboxAQ, a leader in Quantum technologies. Sandbox was spun out of Alphabet earlier this year, and the combination with Cryptosense will make a substantial impact in transitioning the French, US, and UK governments, along with the world's leading enterprises, to crypto-agility and post-quantum readiness.
BGV has an intimate understanding of the need for cryptography to protect sensitive data and digital communications. Against the backdrop of the digital transformation the enterprise, BGV's Enterprise 4.0 investment thesis champions startups that successfully combine AI, intelligent automation and proprietary access to data to deliver actionable insights for enterprise businesses.
"When perfectly implemented and maintained, cryptography provides security we can rely on, but when you combine complex IT, with legacy applications and human error, unfortunately errors are hard to avoid," explains BGV Partner Sarah Benhamou. "These errors leave enterprises vulnerable to attack by malicious third parties looking exploit them to steal sensitive data and the threat of such attacks, including recent high-profile attacks such as SolarWinds, CapitalOne and Uber, is growing quickly," she posits. "When we found Cryptosense, we were impressed by the team, the business, and their innovative approach to providing cryptography life cycle management, built for scalability. Cryptosense boasts an incredibly talented team and technology, so this acquisition is excellent news for all parties involved."
Cryptosense CEO Graham Steel says, "After 10 years as an academic researcher working closely with industry, we set out on a mission to develop and deliver tools that would enable enterprises to protect themselves from data theft by ensuring that their cryptography was deployed securely. We're thrilled to join the SandboxAQ family and believe this development will ensure continued growth and excellent cryptography solutions for all of our clients."
SandboxAQ is an enterprise SaaS company that combines AI and Quantum technology to solve hard problems impacting society. Their solutions include post-RSA cybersecurity modules that migrate enterprises to higher levels of security. These Sandbox AQ modules enable post-quantum cryptography (PQC) in line with the new standards that are now emerging in the field.
Cryptosense is an enterprise SaaS company that helps organizations identify and catalog the cryptography leveraged within their applications and infrastructure. Some of the largest technology and financial services companies worldwide use Cryptosense for their cybersecurity needs. Cryptosense announced a $4.8 million funding round in May 2021 backed by Amadeus Capital Partners, Elaia Partners and BGV.
BGV is a global venture capital firm with deep Silicon Valley roots and an exclusive focus on Enterprise 4.0 technology innovation. The partnership sources companies from innovation hubs around the world and deploys financial and human capital from seed stage to IPO. With offices in Palo Alto, Tel Aviv, Paris, and Mumbai, BGV has championed a cross-border venture investing model with a portfolio representing businesses in the US, Israel, Europe, and India. Visit www.bgv.vc to learn more.
Press Contact
Jamie Kim
jamie@bgv.vc
+1.650.324.3680
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SOURCE BGV | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/09/14/bgv-portfolio-company-cryptosense-acquired-by-sandboxaq/ | 2022-09-15T00:03:36Z |
The expansion follows the brand's overwhelming success in the Philippines, generating over $1.2 million in revenue within the first 12 months, outgrowing the entire digestive health segment in the Philippines by 151%.
MANILA, Philippines, June 16, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- TRIZIE, a Southeast-Asian, multi-awarded wellness brand focusing on natural and scientifically-blended ingredients to improve gut and skin health, announces its North American market expansion.
The expansion comes after the brand's overwhelming success in the Philippines. Despite being pandemic-born in October 2020 and bootstrapped at USD 200,000, the Thai-originated brand found traction right after its launch in the Philippines, generating over USD 1.2 million in revenue in its first year. TRIZIE also managed to outgrow the total Digestive Health category in the Philippines, with 151% quarter on quarter growth (QoQ) compared to the category's growth of 104% QoQ.
In the Philippines, the product consistently tops the rank in the category of health across e-commerce platforms and has bagged multiple awards, including the coveted Cosmopolitan Beauty Awards. According to TRIZIE Philippines' CEO Katrina Eusebio, this remarkable reception keys up the decision for TRIZIE to break out of its Southeast Asian shell.
"While key tastemakers have vetted our product in the Philippines, we believe that the need to improve gut and skin health also resonates with people across the globe. It is a momentous achievement for us to launch in the USA and Canada and introduce TRIZIE to a wider audience," said Eusebio.
The company's expansion strategy will likely pay off. Based on a recent Euromonitor Survey, digestive health is the fastest-growing category in the Health and Wellness sphere, growing steadily at 5.5% per year. In Western markets like the US and Canada, a strong preference for a holistic and natural approach to gut health is also found, making TRIZIE poised to grab a slice of the region's digestive health market.
The gut health market is also expected to gain further traction globally, according to TRIZIE's Co-founder and Chief Marketing Officer, Darla Bautista. "The importance of sustaining healthy habits is something that we learned since launching our products during the pandemic. Post COVID-19, consumers worldwide are likely to continue gravitating towards natural products like TRIZIE, which have been proven to promote preventative health benefits."
TRIZIE Clean Fiber, the brand's best-selling flagship product, is a natural dietary fiber supplement containing a unique Thermogenic Multi-Fiber blend with superfoods designed to promote digestive health, stimulate weight loss, and increase metabolism. Setting TRIZIE apart from its competitors are the variety of flavour options such as apple, passionfruit, grape and most recently introduced, peach fiber.
Since its introduction, the brand has been well received by the Asian health market with over 20,000 TRIZIE Tribe community members.
TRIZIE is now available in the US and Canada through Filipino-led retailers PNY Beauty, Modern Binibini, and Glow Bella. Wider distribution channels in North America, which will include Amazon, TRIZIE's direct-international shipping, and in-store distributions, are in the pipeline for late 2022.
For more information, visit www.trizie.com.
About TRIZIE
Established in October 2020, TRIZIE is a wellness brand that focuses on natural, scientifically blended blends to improve gut and skin health. The brand is on a mission to provide a clean start to wellness, promoting an inclusive space and body positivity, where "healthy" is defined not by the numbers on the scale but by mindful nourishment.
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SOURCE TRIZIE | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/06/16/wellness-brand-trizie-expands-into-north-america-interest-digestive-health-products-soars/ | 2022-06-16T13:36:49Z |
Eric Comrie has first NHL shutout, Jets beat Flyers 4-0
WINNIPEG, Manitoba (AP) — Eric Comrie made 35 saves for his first NHL shutout in the Winnipeg Jets’ 4-0 victory over the Philadelphia Flyers on Wednesday night. The 26-year-old Comrie played his 27th NHL game, making his 15th start this season for Winnipeg. Kyle Connor had an empty-net goal and two assists to push his season points total to 92, the most since the franchise moved from Atlanta to to Winnipeg in 2011. Captain Blake Wheeler had 91 points in 2017-18 and 2018-19. Nikolaj Ehlers and Wheeler each had a goal and an assist, and Pierre-Luc Dubois scored his career-high 28th goal. Playing his fifth NHL game and second straight, Philadelphia’s Felix Sandstrom stopped 23 shots. | https://localnews8.com/news/2022/04/27/eric-comrie-has-first-nhl-shutout-jets-beat-flyers-4-0/ | 2022-04-28T03:45:07Z |
SAN FRANCISCO, June 22, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Adyen (AMS: ADYEN), the global financial technology platform of choice for leading businesses, and McDonald's Corporation (NYSE: MCD) announced the expansion of their mobile app partnership to the U.S. The two companies began working together in early 2020 in the U.K. and are now expanding to other markets globally.
"As consumer demand evolves, Adyen has responded to our needs in a rapidly changing market," said Whitney McGinnis, U.S. CIO at McDonald's. "Adyen has handled mobile volumes during peak events, such as promotions and rush times. Additionally, they helped improve the success rate for customers registering their preferred payment types to their digital profile and reduced card declines during order placement by using Real-time Account Updater technology. We look forward to where we take the partnership next."
McDonald's has always focused on serving customers, and that includes offering their preferred payment methods with Adyen in several markets across the globe. For example, loyalty customers are able to pay with their saved payment method on the McDonald's mobile app at the front counter, kiosk, or drive-thru using a four-digit code which provides convenience and supports operational speed.
"We've been working with McDonald's for several years now and it's been incredible to see how much we've expanded together in that time," said Kamran Zaki, COO at Adyen. "McDonald's is at the forefront of innovation in the QSR space as well as increasing the standard for customer experiences and we are happy to play a part in that global transformation including the U.S."
About Adyen
Adyen (AMS: ADYEN) is the financial technology platform of choice for leading companies. By providing end-to-end payments capabilities, data-driven insights, and financial products in a single global solution, Adyen helps businesses achieve their ambitions faster. With offices around the world, Adyen works with the likes of Facebook, Uber, H&M, eBay, and Microsoft. The cooperation with McDonald's as described in this merchant update underlines Adyen's continuous growth with current and new merchants over the years.
About McDonald's
McDonald's is the world's leading global foodservice retailer with more than 39,000 locations in over 100 countries. Approximately 95% of McDonald's restaurants worldwide are owned and operated by independent local business owners.
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SOURCE Adyen | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/06/22/adyen-mcdonalds-expand-mobile-app-partnership-us/ | 2022-06-22T13:54:06Z |
The partnership kicks off with the launch of the NEXT GAME Slide Collection
BRAINTREE, Mass. and EXETER, N.H., July 22, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- OOFOS, the global leader in Active Recovery footwear, and Bauer Hockey, the world's number one hockey brand, today launched an innovative product collaboration that enhances hockey athlete recovery using advanced footwear technologies. OOFOS and Bauer have teamed-up to launch a collection of NEXT GAME sandals that allow hockey athletes to start the recovery process the minute they step off the ice.
Skating applies pressure on ankles and joints in and near a player's foot, making recovery after ice time and during the off-season extremely important. The NEXT GAME slides feature OOFOS' OOfoam™ technology and patented arch support to absorb impact, reduce stress on the body and enable more natural movement. Combined, these innovative technologies help athletes recover more quickly and help prepare them for their NEXT GAME.
"As the leader in Active Recovery footwear, OOFOS is dedicated to maximizing athlete performance," says Steve Gallo, President of OOFOS. "There is no better feeling than pulling off skates after a tough game or training session and stepping into a pair of OOFOS. We share Bauer's commitment to player performance and are thrilled to work together to help boost recovery between skating sessions and make it easier for hockey players to perform at their best, day after day."
"Bauer and OOFOS are both hyper-focused on the performance of the athlete. Recovery is integral to performance, and it's a growing focus for athletes at all levels of the game," said Brad James, Senior Director of Strategy at Bauer. "Hockey players wear skates nearly all year, and when summer hits, athletes often switch to footwear that offers little to no support. Our NEXT GAME slides provide the opportunity for Active Recovery and support so that athletes maintain their strength between seasons and optimize performance between training and games during the season."
Perfect for sliding on and off between games or training sessions, the NEXT GAME slide collection by Bauer features OOFOS proprietary OOfoam ™ technology, which absorbs impact on a player's foot, ankle and body. Combined with a patented footbed design, OOFOS cradle the heel and arches for the optimal combination of soft and stable support. OOfoam™ technology is proven to absorb 37% more impact than traditional foam materials, reducing load and stress on joints, ankles and feet, so you can recover faster*. The full line of OOFOS has received the APMA (American Podiatric Medical Association) Seal of Acceptance.
The Bauer-OOFOS NEXT GAME collection of slides will be available starting July 22, 2022, at OOFOS.com, Bauer.com and select hockey specialty stores in the US, Canada and internationally.
*Based on a 2018 University of Virginia School of Medicine Speed Clinic.
OOFOS is the global leader in recovery footwear, founded by a team of industry veterans looking to help runners and fitness enthusiasts recover better from their workouts. Made with revolutionary OOfoam™ technology, OOFOS are designed to absorb 37% more impact than traditional footwear. They reduce stress on joints to keep anyone, of any activity level, feeling their best. From professional athletes to casual walkers, OOFOS footwear will make your hard-working feet and body feel better – all you have to do is feel the OO. For more information, go to www.oofos.com.
Bauer Hockey is the world's most recognize designer, marketer and manufacturer of hockey equipment and is the No. 1 brand in hockey. Founded in Kitchener, Ontario, in 1927, Bauer Hockey developed the first skate with a blade attached to a boot, forever changing the game. Since then, Bauer Hockey has continued to develop the most south-after products in the industry, including the widely successful SUPREME®, VAPOR® and NEXUS® lines of products. For more information, visit www.bauer.com.
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SOURCE OOFOS | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/07/22/oofos-bauer-team-up-footwear-collaboration/ | 2022-07-22T13:18:46Z |
Brandt joins as the firm's first CHRO after nearly 20 years in the financial services industry
CONSHOHOCKEN, Pa., Sept. 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Leading private markets investment management firm Hamilton Lane (NASDAQ: HLNE) today announced that it has hired Kristin Brandt to the newly-created role of Chief Human Resources Officer, based in the firm's Conshohocken, Penn. headquarters and reporting into CEO Mario Giannini.
Brandt is a longtime Human Resources professional with 25 years of experience, nearly 20 of which were within the financial services and banking industry. She comes to Hamilton Lane from Lazard, where she spent seven years and most recently served as the Head of HR for the Americas Investment Banking division. Prior to Lazard, she spent 12 years at Bank of America Merrill Lynch in a variety of leadership roles, primarily within the Global Corporate and Investment Banking division. Brandt spent much of her early career within the consulting industry, after earning a BA from Tufts University and an MBA from Columbia University.
Mario Giannini commented: "Kristin has extensive experience in building world-class Human Resources operations within large and growing financial firms, and we will look to her to help us continue to scale our own function, construct the roadmap for our future and bring an even greater focus on finding, fostering and supporting the part of our business that truly sets us apart – our employees."
Brandt joins Hamilton Lane at a time of high growth for the firm, which has expanded its employee base by 42% since March 2020, to more than 540 employees across 21 offices globally today. The firm has expanded its commingled product platform and SMA businesses, and has also seen significant growth in its Evergreen business, launched just over three years ago and which is designed to provide private markets access with a single allocation, monthly or quarterly liquidity, low investment minimums and immediate exposure. Among her areas of focus will be continuing to invest in the functions that support employee growth and development – recruitment, retention, mentorship and training.
"I can already see that this is a firm that cares deeply about its people – and knows that its continued success will be due in no small part to excellent, committed, passionate and engaged employees. I am thrilled to be stepping into this role at a time of significant global growth, and look forward to supporting our people and teams around the world," Brandt said.
Hamilton Lane has an award-winning culture, as one of only five firms consecutively named to Pensions & Investments' Best Places to Work in Money Management list in the 10 years since the ranking was established.
About Hamilton Lane
Hamilton Lane (NASDAQ: HLNE) is a leading private markets investment management firm providing innovative solutions to institutional and private wealth investors around the world. Dedicated exclusively to private markets investing for 30 years, the firm currently employs more than 540 professionals operating in offices throughout North America, Europe, Asia Pacific and the Middle East. Hamilton Lane has more than $832 billion in assets under management and supervision, composed of $108 billion in discretionary assets and more than $724 billion in non-discretionary assets, as of June 30, 2022. Hamilton Lane specializes in building flexible investment programs that provide clients access to the full spectrum of private markets strategies, sectors and geographies. For more information, please visit www.hamiltonlane.com or follow Hamilton Lane on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hamilton-lane/.
Media Contact
Kate McGann
kmcgann@hamiltonlane.com
+1 240 888 4078
Investor Contact
John Oh
joh@hamiltonlane.com
+1 610 617 6026
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SOURCE Hamilton Lane | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/09/13/hamilton-lane-names-kristin-brandt-chief-human-resources-officer/ | 2022-09-13T11:34:27Z |
Tech industry employment gains now extends to 21 consecutive months
DOWNERS GROVE, Ill., Sept. 2, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- New employment data shows that employers continue to grow their technology teams, reaffirming tech's essential role in powering business and industry, according to CompTIA, the nonprofit association for the information technology (IT) industry and workforce.
Tech sector companies added 25,500 net new workers in August, with growth in five major occupation categories, CompTIA's analysis of the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) "Employment Situation" report reveals. Tech industry employment has increased by 175,700 jobs in 2022 and is tracking 46% ahead of last year and 92% ahead of 2019.
Companies throughout the economy added an estimated 21,000 tech workers for the month. [1] The unemployment rate for tech occupations edged up to 2.3% paralleling the directional change of the national unemployment rate (3.7%).
"Stability in tech hiring continues to be an over-arching theme this year," said Tim Herbert, chief research officer at CompTIA. "Despite all the economic noise and pockets of layoffs, aggregate tech hiring remains consistently positive."
Employer job postings for tech positions eased back in August, coming in at just under 320,000. Companies are seeking a range of tech skills, including software development and engineering, IT support, IT project management, systems engineering and network engineering.
Among industries, the largest numbers of job postings occurred in professional, scientific and technical services, finance and insurance, manufacturing, information and retail trade. Employment opportunities in tech are available across the country, in markets large, medium and small. The New York City, Washington, Dallas, Chicago and Los Angeles metro areas had the most job postings for tech positions, while Allentown (PA), Raleigh (NC) and Columbus (OH) recorded the largest month-over-month increases in tech job postings.
CompTIA's analysis also shows that options for remote work and work from home continue to increase for technology workers. From January through August 2022, tech job postings where employers specify remote work is up 56% over last year and 281% from the pre-pandemic year of 2019.
Within the tech sector, new hiring in the IT services and custom software development occupation category, which expanded by 14,400 workers, paced August's job gains. Solid growth also occurred in computer and electronic products manufacturing (+4,500), data processing, hosting and related services (+3,200) and other information services, including search engines (+3,000). Telecommunications jobs increased by a modest 400.
The "CompTIA Tech Jobs Report" is available at https://www.comptia.org/content/tech-jobs-report. For more analysis and perspective visit the CompTIA Tech Job Report video series at https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLuqIJd7KnBU_nZd2oXEwa0I5X7Vt124eM.
[1] Monthly occupation level data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics tends to experience higher levels of variance and volatility. Labor market data from the BLS and employer job posting data from Lightcast may be subject to backward revisions.
The Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) is a leading voice and advocate for the $5 trillion global information technology ecosystem; and the estimated 75 million industry and tech professionals who design, implement, manage, and safeguard the technology that powers the world's economy. Through education, training, certifications, advocacy, philanthropy, and market research, CompTIA is the hub for unlocking the potential of the tech industry and its workforce. https://www.comptia.org/
Media Contact
Steven Ostrowski
CompTIA
sostrowski@comptia.org
+1 630-678-8468
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SOURCE CompTIA | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/09/02/tech-employment-increases-companies-keep-up-pace-hiring-comptia-analysis-monthly-jobs-report-finds/ | 2022-09-02T17:34:17Z |
LEE COUNTY 51 LAKE GIBSON 0
The No. 3-ranked Lee County Trojans (4-1) bounced back from its first home regular season loss in six seasons by thrashing Lake Gibson of Lakeland, Fla. 51-0 Friday night in Leesburg.
Sophomore running back Ousmane Kromah scored four first-half touchdowns and senior wide receiver JD Fugerson scored two as the Trojans handed Lake Gibson their worst defeat in more than 20 years. Braxton Honer added 112 yards rushing and receiving while Chirs Martin threw three touchdown passes in the first half. Lee led 41-0 at halftime and outgained Lake Gibson 435 -125. The Trojans are off next week before opening region play on Sept. 30th when the Houston County Bears come to town.
WESTOVER 35 TURNER COUNTY 30
The Westover Patriots (2-3) got two touchdowns from Kavon Johnson, two from Keyon Thomas, and a 40-yard touchdown run for Isaiah Davis to beat Turner County 35-30 in Ashburn Friday night. Kicker Eddison Vicente booted all five extra points successfully.
The Patriots will host Northside of Columbus Friday night at Hugh Mills Stadium.
MONROE 62 RANDOLPH-CLAY 6
The Monroe Golden Tornadoes rolled up 479 yards on offense and scored at will Friday night to blast visiting Randolph-Clay 62-6 at Hugh Mills Stadium Friday night. Quarterback Corey Randle completed 14 of 24 passes and threw two touchdowns for the Tornadoes. He rushed for another touchdown. Jordan Washington also threw two touchdowns and Jacobe McDonald rushed for 69 yards on just seven carries and scored twice. Monroe also got a touchdown from Dermarcus Freeman. Senior wide receiver Andrico Jackson caught six passes for 122 yards and a touchdown.
The Monroe defense was led by Jordan Thomas who wrapped up 15 1/2 tackles including one tackle for loss. Jalen Adams also had nine tackles for the Tornadoes.
Monroe is off next Friday night and will begin region play at Hugh Mills Stadium on Thursday, September 29th when the Thomasville Bulldogs come to town.
SHERWOOD CHRISTIAN 60 JOHNSON FERRY 6
The Sherwood Christian Eagles improved to 2-1 on the season Friday night at home as they blew out visiting Johnson Ferry from Marietta 60-6.
Running back Easton Enfinger rushed for 121 yards and three touchdowns on just eight carries. Quarterback Tripp Roberts threw for 113 yards passing, with one touchdown pass and one rushing touchdown. Hudson Carter led the receivers with 78 yards and a touchdown.
On defense, Carter intercepted a pass and scored on a 49-yard return while David Albano also had a pick-six interception with a 10-yard return. Colton Broome caused a fumble and made eight tackles for the Eagles. Carter and Graham Anderson each had five tackles for the Eagle defense.
Sherwood will travel to Peachtree Christian next Friday night.
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LAS VEGAS, June 27, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Aristocrat Gaming™ announced today that Oriana Branon has joined the company as Vice President of Communications and Corporate Affairs.
Reporting to CEO of Aristocrat Gaming Hector Fernandez, Branon will be a member of the executive leadership team. In this newly created role, she will oversee all external and internal communications for the Gaming division, and provide strategic guidance on the organization's environmental, social, and governance (ESG) as well as sustainability and ethical impact, and diversity, equity, and inclusion.
"We are thrilled to welcome Oriana to the Aristocrat Gaming team, where she will support our mission to bring joy to life through the power of play," Fernandez said. "Oriana's extensive communications background across business and consumer markets, stellar track record of storytelling, and commitment to social impact demonstrate she will be an incredible asset to our company during a time of rapid growth."
Branon recently led corporate communications for financial tech giant Bill.com, where she drove the company's external visibility in the wake of their IPO. She was also the first PR hire for Alaska Airlines in California, helping the company to win the hearts and minds of consumers post-Virgin America acquisition.
"I am excited to join Aristocrat Gaming to build on the company's rich history of delivering award-winning and entertaining gaming experiences to players around the world," Branon said. "I look forward to working with the team to capture the tremendous opportunity ahead."
Branon has been recognized for her strong communications performance record, including PRWeek's "Women to Watch" and PRWeek's "40 Under 40," and featured as a Latina advocate in Latina Style and Forbes. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications and Sociology from the University of California, Santa Barbara. She sits on various nonprofit boards dedicated to opening pathways for underserved communities and is passionate about mentoring women of color professionals.
Join Aristocrat on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter.
ABOUT ARISTOCRAT TECHNOLOGIES INC.
Aristocrat Technologies Inc. is a subsidiary of Aristocrat Leisure Limited (ASX: ALL), a global games leader with more than 6,500 employees. The company is licensed in over 300 gaming jurisdictions, operates in more than 90 countries, and offers a unique blend of products and services. The company is the leading designer, manufacturer, and distributor of Class III games as well as Class II Innovations for Native American casinos and emerging markets. The company's mission is to bring joy to life through the power of play. Its values are rooted in creativity and technology, and the company has a rich history of innovation that has shaped the gaming industry over many decades. For further information, visit the company's website at www.aristocratgaming.com.
Media Contacts:
For Aristocrat:
Meghan Sleik, Meghan.Sleik@aristocrat.com
Paul Speirs-Hernandez, paul@steinbeckcommunications.com
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SOURCE Aristocrat Technologies Inc. | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/06/27/aristocrat-gaming-expands-leadership-team-adding-oriana-branon-vice-president-communications-corporate-affairs/ | 2022-06-27T17:38:11Z |
Marriott Design Lab Collaboration Leverages Shared Dedication to Reimagining Hospitality Operations, Driving Sustainability
LINCOLNSHIRE, Ill., July 19, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- LG Business Solutions USA announced a groundbreaking alliance with the Marriott Design Lab to jointly develop and test advanced new technologies and solutions for the hospitality industry. The three-year collaboration between LG Electronics USA and Marriott International builds on LG's long history as the leading provider of televisions to Marriott properties across various brands and is expected to enhance LG's role as a hospitality industry technology leader.
"Working with Marriott on groundbreaking R&D supports LG's efforts to bring more innovative technologies to the hospitality industry," said Richard Lewis, vice president of technology and research, LG Business Solutions USA. "This collaboration reflects our shared passion for innovation, customer service and sustainability, and our three-year commitment underscores our common dedication to reimagining hospitality experiences and operations through new technologies."
The Marriott Design Lab will serve as a research and development hub working at the leading edge of design and innovation. The Lab will provide a proving ground for technology products and services that can be integrated into daily hotel operations to save energy, reduce costs, increase operational efficiency, and encourage customer loyalty through enhanced experiences. The LG collaboration exemplifies how Marriott is teaming up with industry leaders to explore new products, technologies and solutions for the hospitality industry.
"LG is a long-time strategic collaborator with Marriott International and is a global innovator in technology," said Jeff Voris, senior vice president, global design strategies, Marriott International. "We look forward to expanding our relationship with LG to help explore ways to deliver better experiences for guests, associates and hotel owners and franchisees."
A number of LG product categories are expected to be involved in the Marriott Design Lab, going well beyond digital displays and consumer technologies to improve multiple facets of hotels from operations to new guest technologies.
As a longtime supplier and partner to the hospitality industry, LG Business Solutions USA is adept at providing game-changing technologies that are designed to integrate seamlessly into daily hotel operations. With the Marriott Design Lab, LG will evaluate early-stage innovations that benefit ownership, associates, and guests and align with the high expectations of modern travelers.
For high-res images, click here.
LG Electronics USA's Business Solutions division serves commercial display and robot customers in the U.S. lodging and hospitality, digital signage, systems integration, healthcare, education, government and industrial markets. Based in Lincolnshire, Ill., with its dedicated engineering and customer support team, LG Business Solutions USA delivers business-to-business technology solutions tailored to the particular needs of business environments. Nine-time ENERGY STAR® Partner of the Year LG Electronics USA Inc., based in Englewood Cliffs, N.J., is the North American subsidiary of LG Electronics Inc., a $63 billion global force in consumer electronics, home appliances and air solutions. For more information, please visit www.LGSolutions.com.
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SOURCE LG Business Solutions USA | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/07/19/lg-teams-up-with-marriott-international-explore-innovations-that-can-improve-hotel-experiences/ | 2022-07-19T19:32:43Z |
Demandbase Champions are an elite group of marketers who differentiate themselves as thought leaders and model practitioners of Smarter GTM™ and ABM/ABX
SAN FRANCISCO, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Demandbase, the Smarter GTM™ company for B2B brands, announced today the first-ever class of Demandbase Champions. These 12 Champions are best-in-class customers who stand out by being expert Demandbase One users and thought leaders in Smarter Go-To-Market™ and Account Based Marketing / Experience (ABM/X).
"Demandbase Champions embody marketers who are successfully implementing smarter account-based strategies using Demandbase. In addition, this group is at the top of account-based marketing / account-based experience thought leadership in their respective industries," said Jon Miller, chief marketing officer at Demandbase. "These individuals showcase all that can be achieved when applying Smarter GTM™ to its fullest. We celebrate their achievements and are honored to call them Champions."
Demandbase Champions not only receive recognition at the annual Demandbase SMART Summit, but will also have early access to products and features, be able to influence product testing and roadmapping, be featured on the Demandbase Champions Showcase page, and receive thought leadership opportunities, including speaking engagement and interviews.
The 2022 Demandbase Champions are:
- Mickaël Bizouati, head of marketing operations, WalkMe
- Dylan Freier, senior manager, account-based marketing, Matillion
- Mandy Hanson, director, global account-based marketing, Lacework
- Bretton Hoekwater, growth marketing and analytics manager, Folloze
- Jodi Lebow, director, global demand center, Hexagon
- Kevin Nolan, global head of healthcare marketing, HGS Healthcare
- Shikha Pakhide, global marketing director, X0PA AI
- Casey Patterson, manager, account-based marketing, Fivetran
- Baradhwaj R., director of marketing, MoEngage Inc
- Serena Walker, head of marketing, Europe, Ensono
- Scott Wright, manager, marketing operations, Levelset
- Leza Woods, global account-based marketing manager, Rimini Street
"The Account Based Marketing (ABM) playbook is still being written, and Demandbase's Champion's program enables ABM leaders to write that playbook together," said Casey Patterson, manager, account-based marketing, Fivetran. "There's no better community to be a part of as we seek to serve sales through marketing. I'm personally excited to learn from folks who are smarter than me on the road toward Smarter GTM™!"
"Being selected as a Demandbase Champion is an honor, as I have been a Demandbase user and advocate for many years and truly believe they are the ultimate leader in the space," said Mandy Hanson, director, global account-based marketing, Lacework. "The Demandbase One platform is an integral part of my ABM toolkit that allows me to not only target at an account level but also target specific contacts within my campaigns."
"I am honored to be chosen as a Demandbase Champion alongside my fellow thought leaders in Account Based Marketing. This achievement is a true testament to the tireless efforts of both Matillion's marketing team and the passion Demandbase has for its customers, while building world-class marketing solutions," said Dylan Freier, senior manager of account-based marketing at Matillion. "Being a Champion encourages me to continue to break account-based boundaries, network with other marketers, and stay up-to-date on the latest Demandbase updates."
"I am extremely proud to be selected as an Demandbase Champion along with my fellow enthusiast marketers. Demandbase is the "founder" of account-based marketing (ABM) and it's only us marketers who have recently joined the bandwagon," said Shikha Pakhide, global marketing director, X0PA AI. "When you sit down and start working on the ABM roadmap and you feel all the highs and lows which your sales team goes through, there lies the true grit. The excitement around account-based marketing is truly valid."
For more information about the program and becoming a Demandbase Champion, visit https://www.demandbase.com/why-demandbase/community/champions/class-of-2022/
About Demandbase
Demandbase is Smarter GTM™ for B2B brands. We help marketing and sales teams spot the juiciest opportunities earlier and progress them faster by injecting Account Intelligence into every step of the buyer journey and orchestrating every action. For more information about Demandbase, visit www.demandbase.com.
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SOURCE Demandbase | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/08/09/introducing-inaugural-class-demandbase-champions/ | 2022-08-09T12:52:22Z |
LONDON, May 16, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The platinum market should move closer to balance in 2022, according to Johnson Matthey's latest PGM Market Report. This provides an overview of demand for platinum group metals in 2021 and an outlook for 2022, in advance of the annual London Platinum & Palladium Market week.
Platinum demand growth will be driven by rising consumption in catalysts for heavy duty trucks, and increased use of platinum (in place of palladium) in gasoline autocatalysts. South African platinum supplies will contract by 9%, with plant maintenance at the country's two largest PGM refiners, and mining activity hit by operational challenges. Industrial demand will remain robust, although it will retreat from the record levels seen in 2021 when Chinese glass companies purchased unusually large quantities of platinum.
Johnson Matthey's report shows that the palladium and rhodium markets could move back into deficit in 2022, with lower South African supplies and downside risks to Russian shipments. Demand growth will be constrained by weak vehicle output, and cost-saving programmes by auto and industrial consumers. High prices have triggered significant thrifting by Chinese automakers, increased substitution of palladium with platinum in gasoline autocatalysts, and reductions in rhodium use by glass companies. Prices for both metals remained strong during the first four months of 2022, with palladium climbing to an all-time high of over $3,300 in March as supply concerns intensified.
Rupen Raithatha, Market Research Director at Johnson Matthey, commented: "We expect weak car output to moderate PGM demand growth in 2022. In recent months we've seen repeated cuts to vehicle production forecasts, due to semiconductor shortages and supply chain disruption. There could be further downgrades to come, especially in China, where Covid disruption led to stoppages at some car plants during April. However, PGM supplies are also under pressure, with Russian shipments facing logistical and commercial hurdles, and South African mines losing production due to extreme weather, electricity shortages, safety stoppages, and intermittent labour disruption."
Industrial demand for platinum is forecast to fall short of 2021's record level, because some of the platinum required for this year's fibreglass expansions was acquired in advance. However, platinum consumption by the glass industry should remain robust by historical standards, reflecting the growing role of glass fibre reinforced materials in carbon reduction applications such as vehicle lightweighting and wind power. In contrast, glass sector demand for rhodium will be weak, with glass companies further reducing the rhodium content of alloys used in glassmaking equipment.
Stewart Brown, Research Manager at Johnson Matthey, said "Platinum alloys used in fibreglass production have traditionally contained 10−20% rhodium, to help glassmaking apparatus withstand extremely high temperatures. Using more rhodium allows for longer production campaigns, improves productivity, and reduces the frequency of recycling and refabricating equipment. Until very recently, 10% was widely regarded as the lower limit, but exceptionally high rhodium prices have driven some fibreglass companies to reduce the rhodium content of their alloys even further."
Demand for PGM in the chemical industry is forecast to enjoy double-digit growth in 2022, reflecting continued investment in Chinese petrochemicals capacity. Total PGM consumption in China's petroleum and chemical industries will rise by 12% and is set to exceed one million ounces for a fifth consecutive year. Johnson Matthey's May 2022 PGM Market Report includes a special feature on the impact of Chinese industrial policy on PGM demand.
Jason Jiang, Johnson Matthey's Market Research Manager for China, said: "The 13th Five Year Plan, which ran from 2016 to 2020, saw extensive modernisation of China's petroleum refining industry, and massive investment in 'building block' chemicals used in many industrial products. This has generated significant demand for all the PGM, especially platinum. Since 2016, we estimate that over 7 million oz of PGM have been purchased by Chinese petroleum refiners and chemicals producers. Going forward, there is potential for new PGM use in energy transition applications such as lower-carbon fuels and chemicals. Using PGM process catalysts often allows for more energy efficient reactions, with fewer unwanted byproducts and reduced water consumption."
Note to editors:
Johnson Matthey Plc's PGM Market Report can be viewed and downloaded from the website (https://platinum.matthey.com/market-research) and provides an overview of demand for platinum group metals in 2021 and an outlook for 2022. You can follow us on Twitter at @PMMJM.
Johnson Matthey's Market Research Department has undertaken fundamental research into the Platinum Group Metals markets since the 1980s. Since 1985, Johnson Matthey has published supply and demand data, in the Platinum and Interim Platinum series of reviews (1985−2013) and in the PGM Market Report (2014−2021). Previous reviews and reports can be downloaded from http://www.platinum.matthey.com/en/report-archive
Johnson Matthey is a global leader in sustainable technologies that enables a cleaner and healthier world. With over 200 years of sustained commitment to innovation and technological breakthroughs, we improve the performance, function and safety of our customers' products. Our science has a global impact in areas such as low emission transport, chemical processing and making the most efficient use of the planet's natural resources. Today about 15,000 Johnson Matthey professionals collaborate with our network of customers and partners to make a real difference to the world around us. For more information, visit www.matthey.com
Inspiring science, enhancing life
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SOURCE Johnson Matthey | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/05/16/johnson-matthey-publishes-latest-pgm-market-report-2022/ | 2022-05-16T12:59:25Z |
NOT FOR RELEASE, PUBLICATION OR DISTRIBUTION, DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY, IN OR INTO ANY JURISDICTION INTO WHICH SUCH DISTRIBUTION WOULD BE UNLAWFUL. THIS NOTICE IS FOR INFORMATION ONLY AND IS NOT AN OFFER TO EXCHANGE, PURCHASE OR SELL SECURITIES. THE EXCHANGE OFFERS AND CONCURRENT CASH TENDER OFFERS DISCUSSED BELOW WERE MADE SOLELY PURSUANT TO THE REGISTRATION STATEMENT AND THE OFFER TO PURCHASE, RESPECTIVELY.
LONDON, Sept. 14, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- HSBC Holdings plc (the 'Company') announces today that its previously announced exchange offers launched on 2 August 2022 (the 'Exchange Offers' and each, an 'Exchange Offer') and concurrent offers to purchase for cash any and all of the Cash Tender Notes (as defined below) (the 'Concurrent Cash Tender Offers') expired at 11:59pm, New York City time, on 13 September 2022 (the 'Expiration Deadline').
As previously announced, in exchange for each $1,000 principal amount of Original Notes (as defined below) of a series that is validly tendered (and not validly withdrawn) prior to the Expiration Deadline of the relevant Exchange Offer, holders will be eligible to receive the total consideration of $1,015 (the 'Total Consideration'), comprising $1,000 principal amount of subordinated notes of a corresponding series of Exchange Notes (as defined below) that will be registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the 'Securities Act'), pursuant to a registration statement on Form F-4 (File No. 333-266456) (together with the related prospectus dated 30 August 2022, the 'Registration Statement') relating to the Exchange Offers which was filed on 2 August 2022 with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission and which was declared effective on 24 August 2022, and a participation cash incentive of $15 (the 'Participation Cash Incentive').
The Company was advised by Global Bondholder Services Corporation as the Exchange Agent and Information Agent that, as of the Expiration Deadline, the aggregate principal amount of each series of subordinated notes solicited in the Exchange Offers as specified in the table above (together, the 'Original Notes') was validly tendered and not validly withdrawn. The table above provides the aggregate principal amount of each series of Original Notes that the Company has accepted in the Exchange Offers on the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the Registration Statement and the related letter of transmittal.
As previously announced, the Concurrent Cash Tender Offers were launched concurrently with the Exchange Offers in relation to the Original 7.35% Notes due 2032, A Original 7.625% Notes due 2032 and B Original 7.625% Notes due 2032 (together, the 'Cash Tender Notes'), up to a maximum aggregate principal amount of $70,000,000, under the terms and conditions of the offer to purchase dated 2 August 2022, as amended on 30 August 2022 (the 'Offer to Purchase') and the related certification instruction letter.
The Company was advised by Global Bondholder Services Corporation as the Depositary and Information Agent that, as of the Expiration Deadline, the aggregate principal amount of each series of Cash Tender Notes specified in the table above was validly tendered and not validly withdrawn. The table above provides the aggregate principal amount of each series of Cash Tender Notes that the Company has accepted in the Concurrent Cash Tender Offers on the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the Offer to Purchase.
Payment of the applicable Consideration (as defined in the Offer to Purchase) for all Cash Tender Notes validly tendered and accepted by the Company pursuant to the Concurrent Cash Tender Offers will be made on 16 September 2022 (the 'Settlement Date'). In addition to the Consideration, holders whose Cash Tender Notes of a given series are accepted for purchase will also be paid a cash amount equal to the accrued and unpaid interest on such Cash Tender Notes from, and including, the last interest payment date for such Cash Tender Notes to, but not including, the Settlement Date, rounded to the nearest cent (such amount in respect of a series of Cash Tender Notes, 'Accrued Interest'). Accrued Interest will be payable on the Settlement Date. For the avoidance of doubt, interest will cease to accrue on the Settlement Date for all Cash Tender Notes accepted in the Concurrent Cash Tender Offers. Under no circumstances will any interest be payable to holders because of any delay on the part of Global Bondholder Services Corporation, as depositary, the Depository Trust Company or any other party in the transmission of funds to holders.
The Exchange Notes will be issued and the Participation Cash Incentive will be paid on 16 September 2022.
All Cash Tender Notes accepted in the Concurrent Cash Tender Offers are cancelled and retired, and will no longer remain outstanding obligations of the Company.
Capitalised terms used in this announcement and not defined herein have the meanings given to them in the Registration Statement.
HSBC Securities (USA) Inc. is serving as Dealer Manager in connection with the Exchange Offers and the Concurrent Cash Tender Offers. For additional information regarding the terms of the Exchange Offers and the Concurrent Cash Tender Offers, please contact: HSBC Securities (USA) Inc. at +1 (888) HSBC-4LM (toll-free) or +1 (212) 525-5552 (collect), Europe: +44 (0)20 7992 6237. Requests for the Registration Statement or the Offer to Purchase may be directed to Global Bondholder Services Corporation, which is acting as the Exchange Agent, Depositary and Information Agent for the Exchange Offers and the Concurrent Cash Tender Offers, at (212) 430-3774 or (855) 654-2014 (toll-free) or contact@gbsc-usa.com.
This announcement is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an offer to exchange, purchase or sell, or a solicitation of an offer to exchange, purchase or sell, any security. No offer, solicitation, sale or exchange will be made in any jurisdiction in which such an offer, exchange, solicitation, or sale would be unlawful. The Exchange Offers and the Concurrent Cash Tender Offers were only made pursuant to the Registration Statement and the Offer to Purchase, respectively.
United Kingdom. This announcement and any other documents or materials relating to the Exchange Offers or the Concurrent Cash Tender Offers are not being made and such documents and/or materials have not been approved by an authorised person for the purposes of section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000. Accordingly, this announcement and such documents and/or materials are not being distributed to, and must not be passed on to, persons in the United Kingdom other than (i) to those persons who are within Article 43 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005 (the 'Financial Promotion Order'), including existing members or creditors of the Company, or (ii) to any other persons to whom it may otherwise lawfully be made (all such persons together being referred to as 'Relevant Persons') and the transactions contemplated by the Registration Statement or the Offer to Purchase will be available only to, and engaged in only with, Relevant Persons. Any person who is not a Relevant Person should not act on or rely on this announcement or any of its contents.
Belgium. Neither this announcement nor any other documents or materials relating to the Exchange Offers or the Concurrent Cash Tender Offers have been submitted to or will be notified to, and neither this announcement nor any other documents or materials relating to the Exchange Offers or the Concurrent Cash Tender Offers have been or will be approved by, the Belgian Financial Services and Markets Authority ('Autoriteit voor Financiële Diensten en Markten/Autorité des Services et Marchés Financiers'). The Exchange Offers and the Concurrent Cash Tender Offer may therefore not be made in Belgium by way of a public takeover bid (openbaar overnamebod/offre publique d'acquisition) as defined in Article 3 of the Belgian Law of 1 April 2007 on public takeover bids, as amended (the 'Belgian Takeover Law'), nor, with respect to the Exchange Offers, by way of an offer to the public as defined in Regulation (EU) 2017/1129, as amended, save in those circumstances where a private placement exemption is available.
The Exchange Offers and the Concurrent Cash Tender Offers are conducted exclusively under applicable private placement exemptions. The Exchange Offers and the Concurrent Cash Tender Offers may therefore not be advertised and the Exchange Offer and the Concurrent Cash Tender Offers may not be extended, and neither this announcement nor any other documents or materials relating to the Exchange Offers or the Concurrent Cash Tender Offers (including any memorandum, information circular, brochure or any similar documents) have been or shall be distributed or made available, directly or indirectly, to any person in Belgium other than (i) to 'qualified investors' within the meaning of Article 2(e) of Regulation (EU) 2017/1129, as amended and (ii) in any circumstances set out in Article 6, §4 of the Belgian Takeover Law or, with respect to the Exchange Offers, Article 1(4) of Regulation (EU) 2017/1129, as amended. The Registration Statement and the Offer to Purchase were issued only for the personal use of the above-mentioned qualified investors and exclusively for the purpose of the Exchange Offers and Concurrent Cash Tender Offers, respectively. Accordingly, the information contained in the Registration Statement and the Offer to Purchase may not be used for any other purpose or disclosed to any other person in Belgium.
Italy. None of the Exchange Offers, the Concurrent Cash Tender Offers, this announcement or any other document or materials relating to the Exchange Offers or the Concurrent Cash Tender Offers have been or will be submitted to the clearance procedures of the Commissione Nazionale per le Società e la Borsa ('CONSOB') pursuant to Italian laws and regulations. The Exchange Offers and the Concurrent Cash Tender Offers are being carried out in the Republic of Italy as exempted offers pursuant to article 101-bis, paragraph 3-bis of the Legislative Decree No. 58 of 24 February 1998, as amended (the 'Financial Services Act') and article 35-bis, paragraph 4 of CONSOB Regulation No. 11971 of 14 May 1999, as amended.
Hong Kong. This announcement and any other documents or materials relating to the Concurrent Cash Tender Offers and/or the Cash Tender Notes is not being made in Hong Kong, by means of any document, other than (i) in circumstances which do not constitute an offer to the public within the meaning of the Companies (Winding Up and Miscellaneous Provisions) Ordinance (Cap. 32, Laws of Hong Kong) (the 'CWUMPO'), or (ii) to 'professional investors' as defined in the Securities and Futures Ordinance (Cap. 571, Laws of Hong Kong) (the 'SFO') and any rules made thereunder, or (iii) in other circumstances which do not result in the document being a 'prospectus' as defined in the CWUMPO.
The Exchange Notes have not been offered or sold and will not be offered or sold in Hong Kong, by means of any document, other than (a) to 'professional investors' as defined in the Securities and Futures Ordinance (Cap. 571) of Hong Kong and any rules made under that Ordinance; or (b) in other circumstances which do not result in the document being a 'prospectus' as defined in the CWUMPO or which do not constitute an offer to the public within the meaning of that Ordinance.
No invitation, advertisement or document relating to the Exchange Offers, the Concurrent Cash Tender Offers, the Exchange Notes and/or the Cash Tender Notes has been or will be issued, or has been or will be in the possession of any person for the purpose of issue (in each case whether in Hong Kong or elsewhere), which is directed at, or the contents of which are likely to be accessed or read by, the public in Hong Kong (except if permitted to do so under the securities laws of Hong Kong) other than with respect to the Exchange Offers, the Concurrent Cash Tender Offers, the Exchange Notes and/or the Cash Tender Notes which are or are intended to be disposed of only to persons outside Hong Kong or only to 'professional investors' as defined in the SFO and any rules made thereunder.
Canada
Concurrent Cash Tender Offers. Any offer or solicitation in Canada must be made through a dealer that is appropriately registered under the laws of the applicable province or territory of Canada, or pursuant to an exemption from that requirement. Where the Dealer Manager or any affiliate thereof is a registered dealer or able to rely on an exemption from the requirement to be registered in such jurisdiction, the Concurrent Cash Tender Offers shall be deemed to be made by such Dealer Manager, or such affiliate, on behalf of the relevant company in that jurisdiction.
Exchange Offers. The Exchange Offers and any solicitation in respect thereof, and the sale of the Exchange Notes, are not being made, directly or indirectly, in Canada or to holders of the Original Notes who are resident and/or located in any province or territory of Canada. The Registration Statement has not been filed with any securities commission or similar regulatory authority in Canada in connection with the Exchange Offers, and the Exchange Notes have not been, and will not be, qualified for sale under the securities laws of Canada or any province or territory thereof and no securities commission or similar regulatory authority in Canada has reviewed or in any way passed upon the Registration Statement, any other documents or materials relating to the Exchange Offers or the merits of the Exchange Notes and any representation to the contrary is an offence. Accordingly, Canadian holders of the Original Notes are hereby notified that, to the extent such holders of Original Notes are persons or entities resident and/or located in Canada, the Exchange Offers is not available to them and they may not accept the Exchange Offers. As such, any tenders of Original Notes received from such persons or entities shall be ineffective and void. No Exchange Notes may be offered, sold, delivered or exchanged, nor may copies of the Registration Statement or of any other document relating to the Exchange Notes and the Exchange Offers be distributed or made available in Canada. The Registration Statement and any other documents or offering materials relating to the Exchange Offers or the Exchange Notes may not be distributed in Canada and the Registration Statement does not constitute an offer or an invitation to participate in the Exchange Offers to any person resident in Canada.
France. This announcement and any other offering material relating to the Exchange Offers or the Concurrent Cash Tender Offers may not be distributed in the Republic of France except to qualified investors as defined in Article 2(e) of Regulation (EU) 2017/1129, as amended. Neither this announcement, nor any other such offering material has been or will be submitted for clearance to, nor approved by, the Autorité des Marchés Financiers.
Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
In this announcement the Company has made forward-looking statements. All statements other than statements of historical fact are, or may be deemed to be, forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements may be identified by the use of terms such as 'believes', 'expects', 'estimate', 'may', 'intends', 'plan', 'will', 'should', 'potential', 'reasonably possible' or 'anticipates' or the negative thereof or similar expressions, or by discussions of strategy. We have based the forward-looking statements on current expectations and projections about future events. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions about us, as described under 'Risk Factors' in the Registration Statement and in the Offer to Purchase. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. In light of these risks, uncertainties and assumptions, the forward-looking events discussed herein might not occur. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements, which speak only as of their dates.
Note to editors:
HSBC Holdings plc
HSBC Holdings plc, the parent company of the HSBC Group, is headquartered in London. HSBC serves customers worldwide from offices in 63 countries and territories in our geographical regions: Europe, Asia, North America, Latin America, and Middle East and North Africa. With assets of US$2,985bn at 30 June 2022, HSBC is one of the world's largest banking and financial services organisations.
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SOURCE HSBC Holdings plc | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/09/14/hsbc-holdings-plc-announces-final-results-exchange-offers-concurrent-cash-tender-offers-subordinated-notes/ | 2022-09-14T13:03:02Z |
Ford recalls 737K vehicles to fix oil leaks, trailer brakes
Published: Apr. 1, 2022 at 7:39 AM CDT|Updated: 1 hours ago
DETROIT (AP) — Ford is issuing two recalls covering over 737,000 vehicles to fix oil leaks and trailer braking systems that won’t work.
The oil leak recall includes the 2020 through 2022 Ford Escape SUV and the 2021 and 2022 Bronco Sport SUV with 1.5-Liter engines.
A housing can crack and oil can leak onto engine parts, possibly causing fires.
The trailer brake recall includes F-150 pickups from 2021 and 2022, as well as the 2022 F-250, 350, 450 and 550.
Also covered are the 2022 Maverick pickup, Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator SUVs.
A software error can stop trailers from braking.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | https://www.wibw.com/2022/04/01/ford-recalls-737k-vehicles-fix-oil-leaks-trailer-brakes/ | 2022-04-01T14:16:33Z |
INDIANA, Pa., June 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- S&T Bancorp, Inc. (S&T) (NASDAQ: STBA), the holding company for S&T Bank with operations in five markets including Western Pennsylvania, Eastern Pennsylvania, Northeast Ohio, Central Ohio and Upstate New York, announced today that James Michie has joined S&T Bank as its new chief credit officer. Michie replaces MaryAnn Dornetto, former interim chief credit officer, who recently started her retirement.
"Jim's expertise will be a great addition to the development and delivery of our strategic plan and the implementation of credit policy and processes to support our strategic goals and growth," shared Chris McComish, chief executive officer. "His robust credit knowledge and substantial leadership experience provides a great addition to S&T's executive leadership team."
Michie joins S&T with an extensive banking background including more than 20 years of experience with financial institutions such as First Horizon Bank, Talmer Bank and Trust and Bank of America. Most recently, Michie held the role of senior credit officer at First Horizon Bank supporting the credit quality and culture of the organization. Prior to that role, he served as the division credit executive at Talmer Bank and Trust, supporting the commercial finance division with a focus on commercial finance and asset-based lending transactions.
"I'm extremely grateful for the opportunity to help shape the future of such a relationship-oriented bank. I'm excited to join a team that provides comprehensive solutions to our customers and the communities we serve. I look forward to contributing to S&T's success," commented Jim Michie.
Michie's responsibilities at S&T include direction and leadership of all credit administration functions, credit analysis, loan documentation, resource recovery, special assets, analytics and secured credit divisions.
About S&T Bancorp, Inc. and S&T Bank
S&T Bancorp, Inc. is a $9.4 billion bank holding company that is headquartered in Indiana, Pennsylvania and trades on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol STBA. Its principal subsidiary, S&T Bank was established in 1902 and operates in five markets including Western Pennsylvania, Eastern Pennsylvania, Northeast Ohio, Central Ohio and Upstate New York. S&T Bank recently received the highest ranking in customer satisfaction for retail banking in the Pennsylvania region by J.D. Power. For more information visit stbancorp.com or stbank.com. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.
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SOURCE S&T Bancorp, Inc. | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/06/13/sampt-bank-announces-james-michie-new-chief-credit-officer/ | 2022-06-13T17:00:39Z |
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- Firestone, a premier provider of industry-leading roofing, wall and lining systems, is becoming Elevate™
- Elevate™ symbolizes Holcim's continued commitment to superior quality and innovation for advanced building solutions
- Firestone Building Products becomes Holcim's Building Envelope division, a key growth engine of its Solutions & Products business unit
- New group identity brings together some of the country's most trusted brands in the building sector.
NASHVILLE, Tenn., June 21, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Firestone Building Products is proud to announce that it is adopting the Holcim name and brand identity, becoming the Holcim Building Envelope division of its Solutions & Products Business Unit. Firestone's iconic brand, a recognized industry leader in roofing, wall and lining systems, becomes Elevate™, symbolizing Holcim's continued commitment to deliver superior quality and innovation with advanced building solutions. Holcim's range of building envelope solutions includes wall, lining and waterproofing systems for commercial and residential applications. It unites some of the most trusted and high-quality brands in its sector including Gaco, GenFlex and Malarkey Roofing Products, as well as Elevate, the new brand name for Firestone roofing systems.
"Over the past 40 years, Firestone has built a reputation as a leader and innovator in the commercial roofing sector. And now we are making it official; we are uniting Firestone Building Products' iconic legacy with Holcim's future focus on accelerating green growth," said Jamie Gentoso, global head, Solutions & Products for Holcim. As we open this new chapter of growth with star brands from Elevate to Malarkey, I am committed to contributing to our customers' success with a rigorous focus on advanced solutions, superior quality and innovation."
Firestone, a premier provider of industry-leading roofing, wall and lining systems, is becoming Elevate. Building on Firestone's iconic brand and legacy, Elevate represents Holcim's commitment to deliver superior quality and innovation with advanced building solutions. The Elevate brand will provide the highest quality products and solutions to solve the industry's shared challenges.
Under the new Elevate brand, the people, products and standards trusted in the industry will remain the same. Sales Representatives and distribution networks will continue to provide the same superior customer service and product support. Customers will see Elevate evolve as the brand name on trusted products like RubberGard™ EPDM and UltraPly™ TPO, all of which will remain in the market. Plus, the high-quality solutions, network of licensed applicators and industry-leading warranties will remain unchanged.
Firestone Building Products is becoming the Holcim Building Envelope division within its Solutions & Products Business Unit. It unites a powerful portfolio of respected brands that provide breakthrough solutions for commercial and residential customers around the world. While the core of the company remains the same, Holcim's building envelope division will be committed to developing the highest quality products and processes globally—raising the standards of building solutions by ensuring they are both innovative and sustainable, while also addressing local needs.
"Together, Holcim and Elevate are committed to growing to new heights with our customers and partners," continued Gentoso. "We look forward to building our new future together!"
Firestone Building Products is becoming Holcim. Holcim builds progress for people and the planet. As a global leader in innovative and sustainable building solutions, Holcim is enabling greener cities, smarter infrastructure and improving living standards around the world. With sustainability at the core of its strategy Holcim is becoming a net zero company, with its people and communities at the heart of its success. The company is driving circular construction as a world leader in recycling to build more with less. Holcim is the company behind some of the world's most trusted brands in the building sector including ACC, Aggregate Industries, Ambuja Cement, Disensa, Geocycle, Holcim, Lafarge and Malarkey Roofing Products. Holcim is 70,000 people around the world who are passionate about building progress for people and the planet through four business segments: Cement, Ready-Mix Concrete, Aggregates and Solutions & Products.
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SOURCE Firestone Building Products | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/06/21/firestone-building-products-unveils-new-brand-identity-part-holcim/ | 2022-06-21T15:26:20Z |
DALLAS (KDAF) — Scratching is an action most performed when you get a bug bite on your body and just can’t fight the urge, which in turn doesn’t really feel like a win. However, there’s certainly a time and place when scratching can bring you the biggest win of your life.
The Texas Lottery reports a resident from San Angelo has recently claimed a top prize-winning ticket worth $2 million from the scratch ticket game Premier Cash. That ticket was purchased at Murphy USA on Georgia Avenue in Sweetwater.
The winning chose to remain anonymous. The lottery says, “This was the first of four top prizes worth $2 million to be claimed in this game. Premier Cash offers more than $203 million in total prizes.” | https://cw33.com/news/texas/2-million-winning-texas-lottery-scratch-ticket-claimed-by-san-angelo-resident/ | 2022-06-27T22:32:53Z |
KU unveils new program to help K-12 leaders as school begins
TOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) - Just in time for the start of the school year, the University of Kansas has unveiled a new program to help leaders in K-12 school districts.
The University of Kansas says on Thursday, Aug. 11, that its Achievement and Assessment Institute announced its new Center for Evaluation and Education Leadership, which is meant to support district and building level leaders, and organize and implement the most effective and equitable learning environments for PreK-12 students.
Neal Kingston, AAI director and University Distinguished Professor, said questions from districts across the state led his team to create the new center.
“We received requests about a range of services that intersected with many areas of work at AAI but which required inquiries of multiple center directors,” Kingston said. “Schools needed a single best place to which they could reach out. As a result, we recognized both a need and an opportunity to further our mission of improving the lives of children and adults, especially students and educators.”
KU said the Center for Evaluation and Educational Leadership draws on overlapping areas of expertise and research done by faculty in the School of Education and Human Sciences and creates a specific, service-minded focus.
The University noted that representatives from CEEL will meet with district leaders to develop and implement strategic plans leading to educational success and ensuring all student populations have access to high-quality support and services. It said plans will be customized per the district’s specific needs while also adherent to Kansas Education Systems Accreditation processes and meeting the state legislature’s statutory requirements for a comprehensive needs assessment.
To help design the new center, KU said AAI engaged the services of the consulting firm Neuenswander Educational Consulting LLC, which has worked with multiple parties drawing on the latest research to help shape the scope of the new center.
“The new center will focus on the structures that surround education, since a child’s education is the result of several layers of input, such as the classroom itself, a school’s administrative practice, its district and the broader community in which the school resides,” said Rick Ginsberg, dean of the School of Education & Human Sciences.
“The main goal is to support educators at the district level, but we also want to involve the community in our process,” he said. “As such, in addition to needs assessments, strategic planning trainings and developing district plans, we envision community participation to be an important part of the center’s process.”
Kingston said, “Education has many influencing factors. With this new center, we aim to be a critical support for schools and districts throughout Kansas.”
Interested districts should contact Kingston at nkingsto@ku.edu or email ceel@ku.edu.
Copyright 2022 WIBW. All rights reserved. | https://www.wibw.com/2022/08/11/ku-unveils-new-program-help-k-12-leaders-school-begins/ | 2022-08-11T18:14:17Z |
(The Hill) — Former CNN anchor and reporter Brooke Baldwin is expressing concern at what she described as a trend of television news companies to quickly decamp from coverage of mass shootings days after the tragedies take place.
Leading executives at major cable newsrooms, Baldwin suggests in a piece published in The Atlantic on Tuesday, are driven by ratings and revenue figures rather than news value and empathy for victims when they decide how long and to what extent mass shootings and their aftermath should be covered.
“After a week or 10 days, the outraged public grows tired of hearing about the carnage, loss, and inaction,” Baldwin writes in the piece headlined “Don’t Let the Cameras Turn Away.” “The audience starts to drop off. The ratings dip. And networks worry about their bottom line. And while the journalists in the field have compassion for the victims of these tragic stories, their bosses at the networks treat the news as ratings-generating revenue sources. No ratings? Less coverage. It’s as simple as that.”
Nearly every major news outlet in the country has been heavily focused on the recent shooting an elementary school in Uvaulde, Texas, where a teenage gunman killed 19 children and two adults.
Several family members have granted extensive and at times emotional interviews to the various outlets on the ground in Uvalude, with a father of one young victim breaking down in tears as he described how he learned of her death. That interview with CNN was widely shared across social media and replayed across the various networks.
At the same time, the incident in Uvaulde has renewed a national conversation about gun control, school safety and police preparedness for mass killing events. The Department of Justice is investigating the police response to the shooting after local law enforcement has given conflicting accounts of how police and federal authorities handled the situation.
“The conversation has already turned to politics, as some pundits urge a focus on mental health and others on guns,” Baldwin wrote. “Some journalists will try to hold our elected representatives’ feet to the fire. A segment or two will go viral. Americans will share their outrage on social media. And then another story will break next week, and the news cycle will move on.”
Baldwin, who worked at CNN for more than a decade, recalled her experience covering several mass shooting while with the network, including at Virginia Tech, Las Vegas and Parkland, Fla.
Baldwin left CNN last year, saying at the time she had made the decision so she could be “the bravest version of herself.” | https://cw33.com/news/brooke-baldwin-tv-news-companies-view-mass-shootings-as-ratings-generating-revenue-sources/ | 2022-05-31T19:20:04Z |
JAKARTA, Indonesia, Sept. 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia (Persero) Tbk. (IDX: BBRI) collaborates with PT Syngenta Indonesia to provide financial services for farmers through the CENTRIGO™ Farming Ecosystem. The end-to-end ecosystem, aimed to support farmers' needs and increase productivity and profitability, will be launched in October 2022.
The collaboration was formally announced at the signing ceremony of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Agus Noorsanto, Director of Institutional and Wholesale Business of BRI and Kazim Hasnain, President Director of PT Syngenta Indonesia on 13 September 2022. The collaboration involves various banking services provided by BRI for PT Syngenta Indonesia and all the stakeholders in its business ecosystem.
Agus Noorsanto said this collaboration will help improve the living standards of farmers and advance the agricultural sector in Indonesia. "All financial transaction management will be carried out efficiently through digital solutions, such as the Cash Management Platform - BRICaMS, Corporate Billing Management - BRICBM, Pasar Rakyat Indonesia - PARI, and others."
PT Syngenta Indonesia is committed to advancing agriculture in Indonesia and ensuring sufficiency as well as quality in a sustainable manner. Through cutting-edge technologies, worldwide experience, and partnerships across the value chain, PT Syngenta Indonesia believes it can help accelerate the growth of the agricultural sector in Indonesia.
"We are pleased with this collaboration and confident that BRI's wide range of digital banking services will unlock the potential of Indonesian farmers and support the growth of PT Syngenta Indonesia's business in Indonesia," said Kazim.
On the same occasion, Supari, Director of Micro Business of BRI, and Ronnie Keh, Director of PT Syngenta Indonesia, also signed a cooperation agreement on microcredits and digital solutions for farmers of the CENTRIGO™ Farming Ecosystem. In addition, A Letter of Intent (LOI) was also delivered to Amam Sukrianto, Director of Small and Medium Business of BRI, regarding business cooperations in the SME sector.
The goal of CENTRIGO™ Farming Ecosystem is in line with BRI's mission to become the champion of financial inclusion that embraces all levels of society. BRI's experience in disbursing loans from ultra-micro, micro, small and medium enterprises to the corporate segment, will greatly support Indonesia's agricultural ecosystem.
For more information about Bank BRI, visit www.bri.co.id
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SOURCE PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia Tbk (BRI) | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/09/13/bri-collaborates-with-pt-syngenta-indonesia-through-centrigo-farming-ecosystem-provide-financial-services-farmers-indonesia/ | 2022-09-13T15:40:09Z |
Portfolio management to lead gains in 2022
CLEVELAND, Aug. 23, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- US personal consumption expenditures (PCE) on professional services are forecast to rise 4.8% yearly in nominal terms through 2026, according to Professional Services: United States, a report recently released by Freedonia Focus Reports. Advances will primarily reflect inflation, though growth in employment and disposable personal income levels will also support gains. Constraints such as the intense competition in many of the segments – in addition to mature markets for many professional services – will limit advances.
PCE on professional services is expected to grow 5.5% in 2022. Portfolio management will be the largest source of growth among the discrete segments, at 8.2%. Portfolio management services will benefit from uncertainty in investment markets, inflation, and increased savings during the COVID-19 pandemic.
These and other key insights are featured in Professional Services: United States. This report forecasts to 2022 and 2026 US PCE on professional services in nominal US dollars. Expenditures are segmented by service type in terms of:
- portfolio management and investment advice
- legal
- banking
- securities trading
- tax preparation and accounting
- other services such as employment placement, printing, and private parcel mail
To illustrate historical trends, total PCE, the various segments, and price indexes by segment are provided in annual series from 2011 to 2021.
The scope of this report encompasses fees and service charges paid by consumers for professional services. Also included are the fees paid by third parties on behalf of consumers (e.g., fees for retirement plans paid by employers). Spending on interest is excluded. Also excluded is the value of financial services furnished without payment (e.g., free checking accounts).
PCE data include spending by nonprofit institutions serving households (e.g., the value of education services provided by nonprofit colleges or medical care provided by nonprofit hospitals). Consequently, the spending by such parties on portfolio management fees, banking, legal, and other professional services is included.
More information about the report is available at:
https://www.freedoniafocusreports.com/Professional-Services-United-States-FF95063/?progid=91541
About Freedonia Focus Reports
Each month, The Freedonia Group – a division of MarketResearch.com – publishes over 20 new or updated Freedonia Focus Reports, providing fresh, unbiased analysis on a wide variety of markets and industries. Published in 20-30 pages, Focus Report coverage ranges from raw materials to finished manufactured goods and related services such as freight and construction. Additional Services & Industries reports can be purchased at Freedonia Focus Reports or MarketResearch.com.
Analysis is intended to guide the busy reader through pertinent topics in rapid succession, including:
- total historical market size and industry output
- segmentation by products and markets
- identification of market drivers, constraints, and key indicators
- segment-by-segment outlook in five-year forecasts
- a survey of the supply base
- suggested resources for further study
Press Contact:
Corinne Gangloff
+1 440.842.2400
cgangloff@freedoniagroup.com
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SOURCE The Freedonia Group | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/08/23/rising-incomes-provider-prices-boost-nominal-spending-professional-services/ | 2022-08-23T14:46:43Z |
The ecosystem includes solutions like BigCommerce, Netlify, and Cloudinary that work with Storyblok's headless CMS
LINZ, Austria, June 20, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Storyblok, an enterprise headless content management system (CMS) that enables developers and marketers to deliver powerful content experiences on any digital platform, today announced the launch of its Technology Ecosystem. This new program is a curated collection of MACH-ready technology solutions that can be integrated together, with Storyblok as the central content hub.
Storyblok's Technology Ecosystem contains an initial group of 15 partners, including BigCommerce, Netlify, and Cloudinary. Storyblok provides integrations for e-commerce, localization, deployment and hosting, personalization, marketing, analytics, and more to allow businesses to build successful digital experiences across channels on top of best-of-breed, composable technology.
"In the last few years, Storyblok's customers have already built more than 120,000 projects, not only on top of our headless CMS, but in a composable manner with multiple technologies connected," said Barry D'Arcy, VP of Partners at Storyblok. "We want to offer businesses a strong ecosystem of powerful API-led technologies to support the growth of their digital offerings. Partnering with other best-in-class solutions allows us to co-innovate within the ecosystem and deliver better digital outcomes."
"Jamstack is an approach to build for the web that has generated a large global community and movement over the past six years," said Sarfaraz Rydhan, Senior Director of Business Development at Netlify. "Netlify is focused on bringing the modern web community together and enabling the benefits of Jamstack with our platform alongside partners and customers. We are delighted to be part of Storyblok's Technology Ecosystem to help empower our customers to build better digital experiences with the Jamstack."
"Cloudinary firmly believes in establishing relationships with other software companies that share our belief in headless, API-first software and composable technology - which is why we're so excited to be a part of the Storyblok Technology Ecosystem," said Gary Ballabio, VP of Technology Partnerships at Cloudinary.
Read more about the Technology Ecosystem on Storyblok's blog, and visit the Technology Ecosystem page to see the full list of partners and learn how to become a partner.
- View Storyblok's press kit: https://www.storyblok.com/press
- See case studies: https://www.storyblok.com/case-studies
- Learn more about Storyblok: https://www.storyblok.com
Storyblok is a headless CMS that enables developers and marketers to deliver powerful content experiences on any digital platform. Developers create flexible components that are independently managed by content teams through a collaborative visual editor and customizable workflow. Published content is delivered through an API, so changes are made once and will appear everywhere: websites, mobile, IoT, the metaverse, and beyond. This approach reduces maintenance and makes content management more efficient. Leading brands such as Adidas, Renault, and Marc O'Polo use Storyblok to manage and share their content with the world. Storyblok was named the #1 CMS for 2022 by G2.
For more information, visit https://www.storyblok.com and follow Storyblok on LinkedIn and Twitter.
Press Contact
Brandon Watts
brandon.watts@storyblok.com
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SOURCE Storyblok | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/06/20/storyblok-launches-technology-ecosystem-help-businesses-build-scalable-digital-experiences/ | 2022-06-20T08:07:28Z |
Two-thirds of small business owners close to burnout, despite pandemic restrictions easing
By Kevin Gallagher
Click here for updates on this story
May 6, 2022 (CTV Network) — After more than two years of rolling COVID-19 lockdowns, capacity restrictions, and supply chain disruptions, half of small business owners report difficulty coping with mental health challenges. The data, released by the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) and Nexim Canada, shows 66 per cent of small business owners are close to burning out, and report seeing a rise in mental health issues among their employees too. “For many small business owners it’s layered on with the fact they had to deal with closures. They’re not always sure how they’re going to get their next payroll together?” said Corinne Pohlmann, senior vice-president of National Affairs and Partnerships at CFIB. “If they’re going to find the employees that they need to get their business back up and running?” Employers surveyed say 54% of their workers are facing mental health challenges, a nearly 20 per cent increase from responses in 2020. “I wake up in the middle of the night with my gut twisting as I think about how much debt the business has incurred,” said Jason Komendat, co-owner of Ottawa Bike Café. His downtown Ottawa business has accumulated at least $120,000 in debt, as he tries to ride out the pandemic downturn. As office workers, and foot traffic, slowly starts to revive his business, Komendat has concerns for the health of his staff. “If we catch COVID,” said Komendat. “And the workforce is cut in half or more, we can’t operate.” Komendat says he is seeing a counsellor to help him cope, but he is in the minority. CFIB research shows fewer than 27 per cent of small business owners are seeking mental health support, and only one in three are providing employees with information and resources. To help managers, the Mental Health Commission of Canada created an online tool kit that launched during Mental Health Week, which runs May 2-6. The checklist provides advice on how to recognize whether their employees are struggling with mental health, how to defuse conflict and integrate new employees. President and CEO of the Mental Health Commission of Canada Michel Rodrigue says the free resource is especially useful, as more workplaces balance in-office workers and work-from-home. “You can better support your teams,” said Rodrigue. “And you can create psychologically safe workplaces for people to thrive.” With her online businesses growing, Alyssa James thinks a mental health resource like this “could prove very beneficial.” At the start of 2020, James turned her passion for cross-stitching into a custom order design company, out of her Ottawa apartment. As the pandemic hit, new orders surged, but finding scarce supplies was challenging. “Walmart was even out of stock,” said James. “So who am I to not run out of Styrofoam?” James struggled with depression before the pandemic. Adding to that the stress of being a new mother, keeping up with work from her existing full-time job, and launching her design business. “That’s how I ended up hiring more people,” said James. “I have been feeling like superwoman doing this entire time, which was actually leading to a further spiral into depression.” James has taken on six employees now, is feeling much less stress to meet tight client deadlines. For Komendat, small businesses simply need more mental health support options, and wants government to fund more programs. “If there’s a program that’s online I don’t have time to look at that,” said Komendat. “I’m just trying to keep this ball rolling.”
Please note: This content carries a strict local market embargo. If you share the same market as the contributor of this article, you may not use it on any platform.
Matthew Talbotmatthew.talbot@bellmedia.ca | https://localnews8.com/news/2022/05/07/two-thirds-of-small-business-owners-close-to-burnout-despite-pandemic-restrictions-easing/ | 2022-05-07T15:03:05Z |
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Rapper Tory Lanez was briefly jailed Tuesday after a judge said he had violated a protective order in a felony assault case in which he is charged with shooting rapper Megan Thee Stallion in the feet.
Lanez, 29, whose legal name is Daystar Peterson, was handcuffed in a Los Angeles courtroom and taken to jail. He posted bail and was released several hours later.
At the hearing, Superior Court Judge David Herriford found that Peterson had violated orders that he not contact or harass Megan and that he not discuss evidence with outside parties.
While Peterson didn’t directly contact Megan, Herriford said some of his tweets appeared to be clear messages to her, and he ordered Peterson not to mention her in any social media.
Peterson’s lawyer, Shawn Holley, said in court that he did not supply information to a Twitter user who posted in February that Peterson’s DNA was not found on the weapon in the case.
In her argument, Holley said the tweet, now deleted, was not entirely accurate. She said that an investigation showed there were four DNA contributors on the handgun, making it inconclusive whether Peterson’s DNA was found. She said his DNA was definitely not found to be on the gun’s magazine.
The prosecution had asked that Peterson’s bail be revoked entirely or increased to $5 million.
“We are pleased that the Court rejected those outrageous requests,” Holly said in an email after the hearing.
The judge instead increased bail from the $250,000 Peterson posted after his 2020 arrest to $350,000.
A September trial date was selected, and Peterson was told to return for a June hearing. He has pleaded not guilty.
Peterson, Megan and others were in an SUV in the Hollywood Hills after a party on July 12, 2020. Authorities allege he fired at her feet during an argument after she had gotten out.
After months of speculation and publicity surrounding the incident, Peterson was charged with felony assault in October 2020, and in December of last year a judge determined there was enough evidence for him to go to trial.
After his initial arrest, Peterson tweeted that “the truth will come to light.”
The Canadian rapper Tory Lanez has had a successful run of mixtapes and major-label records since his career began in 2009, with his last two albums reaching the top 10 on Billboard’s charts.
Megan Thee Stallion was already a major up-and-coming star at the time of the incident, and has thrived since. She won a Grammy for best new artist in 2021, and had No. 1 singles in the Billboard Hot 100 with her own song “Savage” featuring Beyoncé and as a guest on Cardi B’s “WAP.”
___
Follow AP Entertainment Writer Andrew Dalton on Twitter:https://twitter.com/andyjamesdalton | https://cw33.com/entertainment-news/ap-entertainment/rapper-tory-lanez-jailed-again-in-megan-thee-stallion-case/ | 2022-04-06T18:48:54Z |
VIDEO: Hundreds of homes demolished after destructive tornado sweeps through city
Published: May. 4, 2022 at 5:43 PM EDT|Updated: 17 minutes ago
WICHITA, Kan. (KWCH/Gray News) - A destructive tornado was caught on camera last week in Kansas.
The City of Andover shared the tornado video from April 29 as the cyclone formed in southern Sedgwick County and then moved into the city.
KWCH reports the twister destroyed hundreds of homes in Sedgwick County and the City of Andover. Officials said less than ten people were injured, but one woman remained hospitalized with a back injury.
Luckily, officials reported no immediate deaths in the area.
Copyright 2022 KWCH via Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved. | https://www.mysuncoast.com/2022/05/04/video-hundreds-homes-demolished-after-destructive-tornado-sweeps-through-city/ | 2022-05-04T22:01:22Z |
Immersive Way to Explore Stockton History & Attractions This Summer
STOCKTON, Calif., June 16, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Visit Stockton invites visitors and community members to partake in the Brick City Bucket List their newest experience pass which supports local businesses and promotes exploration of the city.
"The Brick City Bucket List gets people out of the house to explore the history, sights, and attractions of Stockton," said Amy Alpers, Director of Marketing and Communications at Visit Stockton. "Whether you're from Stockton or visiting for the first time, there is something to learn and discover, plus an opportunity to win great prizes!"
Participants will immerse themselves by visiting some of the most historic venues and landmarks in the city, including the Bob Hope Theatre, Chung Wah Lane, Lincoln Center, Miracle Mile, The Haggin Museum, and more. New to the pass this year is the integration of video and audio guides built into the pass!
Those who participate are also invited to submit their #BrickCityBucketList images to the Visit Stockton photo uploader in the passport for a chance to win our weekly giveaway of dining gift cards. Additionally, the first 50 people to check into all the Brick City Bucket List locations will win a Visit Stockton t-shirt. For more details about the Brick City Bucket List and Visit Stockton, including lodging, dining, shopping, and things to do, visit visitstockton.org.
About Visit Stockton
Visit Stockton is the official destination marketing organization for Stockton, California, promoting meetings, events, and travel. Founded in 1979 as a 501(c)6 non-profit trade organization, its mission is dedicated to enhancing the region's Quality of Life by collaboratively leading the promotion of its richly diverse community and advocating for initiatives that will enhance the city's Quality of Place. Visit Stockton is funded in partnership with local hotel properties through the Stockton Tourism Business Improvement District. More information can be found at visitstockton.org.
Media Contact:
Augustine Agency
PR@augustineagency.com
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SOURCE Visit Stockton | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/06/16/stockton-brick-city-bucket-list-experience-pass/ | 2022-06-16T16:41:03Z |
AES will supply renewable energy from solar and battery energy storage projects to power Amazon's operations
ARLINGTON, Va., May 5, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The AES Corporation (NYSE: AES) today announced it has entered into two renewable energy Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) with Amazon. As part of the agreements, AES will deliver renewable energy in the CAISO (California Independent System Operator) market and source it from a combined 450 MW of solar and 225 MW, 4-hour duration battery energy storage from its portfolio of projects1. AES has contracted with Fluence to supply energy storage solutions for one of the projects.
These projects help Amazon stay on path to power its global operations with 100% renewable energy by 2025 – five years ahead of its original 2030 target – and reach net zero carbon by 2040. Amazon is the largest corporate buyer of renewable energy.
"AES is proud to support Amazon's bold actions to power its business operations, including its AWS data centers, with 100% renewable energy," said Andrés Gluski, AES President and CEO. "Together with Amazon, we're showing how customized energy solutions and innovative thinking can help organizations of all kinds to decarbonize their operations and the grid."
Through collaboration with its customers to help meet their unique energy commitments and outcomes, AES signed nearly 5 GW of new PPAs globally in 2021 and was ranked by BNEF as the top developer selling clean energy to corporations through PPAs.
1. 450 MW solar and 225 MW, 4-hour duration energy storage additions were incorporated as part of AES' 5 GW of new PPAs in 2021.
About AES
The AES Corporation (NYSE: AES) is a Fortune 500 global energy company accelerating the future of energy. Together with our many stakeholders, we're improving lives by delivering the greener, smarter energy solutions the world needs. Our diverse workforce is committed to continuous innovation and operational excellence, while partnering with our customers on their strategic energy transitions and continuing to meet their energy needs today. For more information, visit AES here.
Safe Harbor Disclosure
This news release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Securities Act of 1933 and of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Such forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, those related to future earnings, growth and financial and operating performance. Forward-looking statements are not intended to be a guarantee of future results, but instead constitute AES' current expectations based on reasonable assumptions. Forecasted financial information is based on certain material assumptions. These assumptions include, but are not limited to, our expectations regarding the COVID-19 pandemic, accurate projections of future interest rates, commodity price and foreign currency pricing, continued normal levels of operating performance and electricity volume at our distribution companies and operational performance at our generation businesses consistent with historical levels, as well as the execution of PPAs, conversion of our backlog and growth investments at normalized investment levels and rates of return consistent with prior experience.
Actual results could differ materially from those projected in our forward-looking statements due to risks, uncertainties and other factors. Important factors that could affect actual results are discussed in AES' filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"), including, but not limited to, the risks discussed under Item 1A: "Risk Factors" and Item 7: "Management's Discussion & Analysis" in AES' Annual Report on Form 10-K and in subsequent reports filed with the SEC. Readers are encouraged to read AES' filings to learn more about the risk factors associated with AES' business. AES undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except where required by law.
Any Stockholder who desires a copy of the Company's 2021 Annual Report on Form 10-K filed February 28, 2022, and any subsequent filing with the SEC, may obtain a copy (excluding Exhibits) without charge by addressing a request to the Office of the Corporate Secretary, The AES Corporation, 4300 Wilson Boulevard, Arlington, Virginia 22203. Exhibits also may be requested, but a charge equal to the reproduction cost thereof will be made. A copy of the Form 10-K may be obtained by visiting the Company's website at www.aes.com.
Website Disclosure
AES uses its website, including its quarterly updates, as channels of distribution of Company information. The information AES posts through these channels may be deemed material. Accordingly, investors should monitor our website, in addition to following AES' press releases, quarterly SEC filings and public conference calls and webcasts. In addition, you may automatically receive e-mail alerts and other information about AES when you enroll your e-mail address by visiting the "Subscribe to Alerts" page of AES' Investors website. The contents of AES' website, including its quarterly updates, are not, however, incorporated by reference into this release.
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SOURCE AES CORP. | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/05/05/aes-announces-deals-provide-450-mw-renewable-energy-amazon/ | 2022-05-05T21:42:48Z |
SAN FRANCISCO, May 19, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, ChargeLab is announcing its $15 million Series A financing. The round was led by King River Capital, with participation from ABB E-Mobility and existing investors including Construct Capital, Root Ventures, Highline Beta, Third Sphere, and Maple VC.
ChargeLab builds software to operate and optimize electric vehicle charging equipment. ChargeLab's software runs at the edge and in the cloud, empowering fleets, building operators, and utilities to deploy large numbers of EV chargers and manage them as an intelligent network. ChargeLab's API-first architecture makes its platform more modular and scalable than those of its competitors.
ChargeLab does not build any hardware. Instead, the company partners with leading EV charger manufacturers like ABB, Phihong, United Chargers, Siemens, and Tritium. ChargeLab and these manufacturers form part of an open EV charging ecosystem driven by the Open Charge Point Protocol (OCPP).
"My partners and I have seen the power of software-first energy management solutions at scale before," said Megan Guy, Co-Founder & Partner at King River Capital. "EV charging today is a messy and inefficient experience for consumers and enterprises alike. King River believes that ChargeLab is positioned to become the dominant back-end software provider for the EV charging industry and deliver a reliable, high-quality experience for the entirety of the ecosystem. That's why we were thrilled to lead this round."
"As the EV market continues to undergo massive growth, the value proposition of ChargeLab's hardware agnostic software becomes increasingly apparent to both vendor and user," said Malin Carlstrom, Head of Ventures at ABB EL Ventures. "We believe that Zak and his team are poised to create the Android of charging systems, and that ABB can be a strategic and financial partner, delivering significant benefits to both parties."
"ChargeLab's vision is to connect millions of EV chargers in the next decade," said Zak Lefevre, co-founder and CEO of ChargeLab. "The road to achieving this goal starts today. We're committed to making EV chargers more reliable for EV fleets and drivers."
"We're also making it easier for enterprises to deploy and manage EV chargers through modular software and open APIs," added co-founder and CTO, Ehsan Mokhtari. "Our configuration tools help installers provision EV chargers in minutes instead of days, our automated monitoring makes EV charger operations a breeze, and our web app allows end-users to charge just by scanning a QR code."
ChargeLab raised its Seed round, co-led by Root Ventures and Construct Capital, in 2021. The Series A raise brings the company's total venture financing to over $20 million. Megan Guy will be joining ChargeLab's Board of Directors in conjunction with closing of the round.
About ChargeLab
ChargeLab builds a hardware-agnostic software platform for managing electric vehicle chargers. The company's customers include fleets, building owners, convenience stores, and utilities. They leverage ChargeLab's charging station management system (CSMS) and open APIs to manage thousands of EV chargers more efficiently.
About King River Capital
King River Capital invests in post-revenue, high-growth software businesses that are solving critical problems within large markets. The firm was founded by three partners, Chris Barter, Zeb Rice, and Megan Guy, all of whom have a strong track record in early to mid-stage venture investing.
About ABB EL Ventures
ABB EL Ventures is the venture arm of ABB's Electrification Business Area. EL Ventures closely collaborates with the Electrification divisions to help them achieve strategic goals through driving the ideation, scouting, assessment, and execution phases of made-to-measure start-up engagements.
Media contact:
ChargeLab Inc.
press@chargelab.co
1 (800) 636-0986 ext. 210
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SOURCE ChargeLab | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/05/19/chargelab-raises-15-million-expand-its-api-first-ev-charger-management-platform/ | 2022-05-19T12:30:01Z |
STOCKHOLM, July 18, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- RaySearch Laboratories AB (publ) announces that The University of New Mexico Comprehensive Cancer Center (UNMCCC) has placed an order for the treatment planning system RayStation®* through a public tender process.
To meet the high patient demand and bring new technologies to the patients UNMCCC is expanding its clinical radiation oncology services. The purchase of RayStation is part of this investment and will replace the center's current treatment planning system. The order includes new and advanced technology, such as adaptive planning and machine learning techniques for automated contouring.
Alan Tomkinson, UNMCCC Interim Director and CEO, says: "Our patients deserve the best. This new technology will enable us to serve more New Mexicans better."
Johan Löf, founder and CEO, RaySearch, says: "There are only a few Request For Proposals in the United States, and it is gratifying when we win these, which are based on objective measures. We look forward to a long and successful relationship with the University of New Mexico Comprehensive Cancer Center and to contributing to advanced technology in the care for the hospital's patients."
For more information, please contact:
Johan Löf, founder and CEO, RaySearch Laboratories AB (publ)
Telephone: +46 (0) 8 510 530 00
johan.lof@raysearchlabs.com
Björn Hårdemark, interim CFO, RaySearch Laboratories AB (publ)
Telephone: +46 (0) 709 564 217
bjorn.hardemark@raysearchlabs.com
This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com
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SOURCE RaySearch Laboratories | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/07/18/raysearch-awarded-treatment-planning-system-tender-university-new-mexico/ | 2022-07-18T10:17:24Z |
LEH, India (AP) — The remains of an Indian army soldier have been found more than 38 years after he went missing on a glacier at the highest point along the heavily militarized contested border between India and Pakistan in Kashmir, officials said Wednesday.
The soldier and 17 other colleagues were occupying a ridge on Siachen Glacier, high in the Karakoram range in disputed Kashmir’s Ladakh region, in May 1984 when they were hit by an avalanche, officials said.
The bodies of 13 soldiers were recovered, but five remained missing.
A team of soldiers on Monday found human remains at the glacier with an identity disc saying they belonged to Chandra Shekhar, one of the missing men, the Indian army said.
Shekhar was part of India’s first army unit to occupy the 76-kilometer (47-mile) -long glacier in 1984 amid pitched battles with soldiers from Pakistan, which also controls part of divided Kashmir. Both nuclear-armed neighbors claim all of the region. The glacier, considered the world’s highest battlefield, was uninhabited before Indian troops moved there.
Since then, the two countries have deployed troops at elevations of up to 6,700 meters (21,982 feet). They have fought intermittent skirmishes on the glacier, but more Indian and Pakistani troops have died from the grueling conditions than from hostile fire.
In 2017, at least 20 Indian soldiers were killed in three avalanches. In 2012, an avalanche in Pakistan-controlled Kashmir killed 140 people, including 129 Pakistani soldiers.
Discussions between India and Pakistan on demilitarizing the glacier have been unsuccessful.
Shekhar’s remains were being flown on Wednesday to his native village in northern Uttarakhand state following a funeral with full military honors, the army said. | https://cw33.com/news/ap-top-headlines/missing-india-soldiers-body-found-on-glacier-after-38-years/ | 2022-08-17T23:39:09Z |
ABUJA, Nigeria (AP) — A Nigerian governor has ordered the issuing of licenses so citizens can carry guns to defend themselves against armed groups, a first among the measures drawn up to defeat gunmen blamed for the deaths of thousands in the West African country’s troubled northern region.
Zamfara state Gov. Bello Matawalle announced Sunday through the state commissioner for information that the directive to issue gun licenses follows “the recent escalating attacks, kidnapping and the criminal levies being enforced on our innocent communities.”
Armed groups known locally as bandits have targeted remote communities in Nigeria’s northwest and central regions. Kidnappings for ransom took place last year in Zamfara, one of the worst-hit states in the armed violence.
Gun permits for self-defense are very rare in Nigeria, and Zamfara could be the first state to offer mass approvals. It was not yet clear how arming citizens would help prevent the attacks; authorities have admitted that even the Nigerian police are sometimes overwhelmed during violent attacks.
Nigeria also is fighting a decade-long war against Islamist extremist rebels in the northeast region.
“This act of terrorism has been a source of worry and concern to the people and government of the state,” Ibrahim Dosara, the Zamfara information commissioner, said in a statement. He said the government has arranged for 500 licenses to be distributed to those “who qualify and are wishing to obtain such guns to defend themselves.”
Past measures, including telecommunications blackouts, blocks of millions of unregistered phone lines and a series of curfews, have not achieved the long-sought peace.
As gun permits are rolled out in Zamfara, the local information commissioner also urged residents to report informants working for the armed groups. Analysts have told The Associated Press that such informants are usually recruited by the attackers and acquiesce because of economic hardship and fear for their safety.
The state government has ordered the recruitment of 200 additional local guards in each of Zamfara’s 19 emirates “to increase manpower and strengthen its force and capacity to deal with the bandits,” Dosara, the information commissioner, said.
Markets and gas stations in some volatile areas were also closed. In addition, motorcycles were banned; groups of bandits numbering in the hundreds often attack communities while riding motorcycles.
“Government is hereby directing the military, police, civil defense and other security agencies to mobilize their operatives and take (the) fight to the enclaves of the criminals with immediate effect,” the commissioner added. | https://cw33.com/news/international/ap-international/nigerian-governor-lets-residents-carry-guns-for-self-defense/ | 2022-06-27T19:00:33Z |
New York Mayor Eric Adams wants Jamie Dimon to ride the subway to work
By Jordan Valinsky, CNN Business
New York Mayor Eric Adams is begging the city’s business leaders, including JPMorgan CEO Jamie Dimon, to ride the subway to work. Adams is pushing to bring people back to New York offices after years of working from home.
“We’re going to get him on a train,” Adams told the Financial Times in an interview. “We’re going to get everyone on the train. He understands the need of getting his people back and leading from the front.”
JPMorgan didn’t immediately respond to CNN Business’ request for comment.
Adams is trying to corral workers back to offices just as the city elevated its Covid-19 status to “High” on Tuesday. That means the city is experiencing “high community spread” resulting in “substantial pressure” on the city’s health care system, according to the health department.
“We’re telling our corporate leaders: ‘Hey, get on the train!'” Adams said in the interview. “We need to advertise that New York is back.”
Roughly 40% of workers in New York City are currently in the office on a weekday, according to a recent survey conducted by the Partnership for New York City. The survey also found that remote work is “here to stay,” with nearly 80% of employers instituting a hybrid office/remote model.
Another concern from employees about returning to work is crime. About one-third of employers said that reducing homelessness would be “most effective” in encouraging workers to return.
Big banks typically like to stick together on major policy decisions. But as Wall Street grapples with heading back-to-offices, a rare chasm is growing between the finance giants.
Goldman Sachs, Bank of America and Morgan Stanley are taking hardline approaches, requiring employees to come into the office five days a week. However, Citigroup announced that the majority of the company’s 210,000 employees will be allowed to go hybrid, with three days in the office.
JPMorgan has reportedly eased its return to office policies too.
The-CNN-Wire
™ & © 2022 Cable News Network, Inc., a WarnerMedia Company. All rights reserved. | https://localnews8.com/news/2022/05/17/new-york-mayor-eric-adams-wants-jamie-dimon-to-ride-the-subway-to-work/ | 2022-05-17T16:21:34Z |
FARNBOROUGH, United Kingdom, July 19, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing (NYSE: BA) and Aviation Capital Group LLC (ACG) today at the Farnborough International Airshow announced the aircraft lessor is growing its 737 MAX portfolio with an order for 12 additional 737-8 jets. As the travel market recovers, ACG is increasing its 737-8 offering to meet airline demand for modern, fuel-efficient, and sustainable operations. The order was previously unidentified on Boeing's Orders and Deliveries website.
"This latest incremental 737 MAX order allows ACG to offer highly fuel-efficient airplanes to our airline customers around the world," said Mahoko Hara, ACG Executive Chair. "These additional 737 MAX aircraft will help position ACG's order book for a recovery in air traffic coming out of the pandemic."
Today's announcement will see ACG expand its 737 MAX order book to 34 airplanes, building upon an order for nine 737-8s in May 2022. Boeing is seeing strong market demand for the 737 MAX family, with more than 1,000 gross orders across all models since late 2020.
"The 737 MAX family strengthens ACG's narrowbody portfolio, providing operators with excellent fuel efficiency and flexibility across different networks," said Ihssane Mounir, Boeing senior vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing. "Topping up with additional 737-8s positions ACG well to respond to growing airline demand. We look forward to more opportunities to expand our relationship to support ACG and their customers."
The 737-8 is a member of the 737 MAX family, which is designed to offer more fuel efficiency, reliability, and flexibility in the single-aisle market. The airplane can fly 3,550 nautical miles – about 600 miles farther than its predecessor – allowing airlines to offer new and more direct routes for passengers. Compared to the airplanes it replaces, the 737-8 also delivers superior efficiency, using 20% less fuel and significantly reducing CO2 emissions and operating costs.
As a leading global aerospace company, Boeing develops, manufactures and services commercial airplanes, defense products and space systems for customers in more than 150 countries. As a top U.S. exporter, the company leverages the talents of a global supplier base to advance economic opportunity, sustainability and community impact. Boeing's diverse team is committed to innovating for the future, leading with sustainability, and cultivating a culture based on the company's core values of safety, quality and integrity. Join our team and find your purpose at boeing.com/careers.
Aviation Capital Group was founded in 1989 and is one of the world's premier full-service aircraft asset managers with over 450 owned, managed and committed aircraft as of March 31, 2022, which are leased to approximately 85 airlines in approximately 45 countries. ACG is a wholly owned subsidiary of Tokyo Century Corporation.
Contact
Dmitry Krol
Boeing Communications
+1 (206) 661 29 03
dmitry.krol@boeing.com
Jessica Kowal
Boeing Communications (Farnborough)
+1 (206) 660 6849
jessica.m.kowal@boeing.com
Gordon Grant
Head of Investor and Media Relations
+ 1 949 219 4664
gordon.grant@aviationcapital.com
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SOURCE Boeing | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/07/19/boeing-aviation-capital-group-announce-order-12-737-8-jets/ | 2022-07-19T13:31:49Z |
NEW YORK (AP) — British socialite Ghislaine Maxwell should spend at least 30 years in prison for her role in the sexual abuse of teenage girls over a 10-year period by her onetime boyfriend, financier Jeffrey Epstein, prosecutors said Wednesday in written arguments.
Prosecutors said she should serve between 30 years and 55 years in prison, reflecting the federal sentencing guidelines. They made their recommendations to the judge who will preside over a sentencing hearing on Tuesday in Manhattan federal court.
The 60-year-old Maxwell was convicted in December of sex trafficking and other crimes after a month-long trial that featured testimony from four women who said they were abused in their teens.
Defense lawyers said in a sentencing submission last week that she should spend no more than five years in prison and shouldn’t pay for Epstein’s crimes, since he was the mastermind and principal abuser and “orchestrated the crimes for his personal gratification.” Epstein took his own life in 2019 in jail as he awaited a Manhattan federal sex trafficking trial.
But prosecutors said Maxwell played an “instrumental role in the horrific sexual abuse of multiple young teenage girls” between 1994 and 2004 at some of Epstein’s palatial residences. They called her crimes “monstrous.”
“As part of a disturbing agreement with Jeffrey Epstein, Maxwell identified, groomed, and abused multiple victims, while she enjoyed a life of extraordinary luxury and privilege. In her wake, Maxwell left her victims permanently scarred with emotional and psychological injuries,” prosecutors wrote.
“That damage can never be undone, but it can be accounted for in crafting a just sentence for Maxwell’s crimes,” they added.
Prosecutors also urged the judge to reject Maxwell’s pleas for leniency on the grounds that she has suffered in extraordinary ways in jail while awaiting trial and afterward. Defense lawyers said she has faced death threats and harsh conditions that have caused her to lose hair and weight.
Maxwell’s appearance at trial proved those claims were wrong, prosecutors said, adding: “The defendant is perfectly healthy, with a full head of hair.”
They said Maxwell “has enjoyed remarkable privileges as a high-profile inmate that vastly exceed the benefits accorded to the average inmate. It is unsurprising that a woman who had led a life of incredible luxury should complain about her life as a prisoner, but that fact does not come close to meriting leniency at sentencing, much less the extraordinary degree of leniency the defendant seeks.”
Prosecutors also attacked claims by Maxwell’s lawyers that she suffered “a credible death threat” in jail, saying that an internal probe of the purported threat revealed that an inmate remarked to someone in passing something to the effect of: “I’d kill her if someone paid me a million dollars.” As a result, they said, someone who overheard the remark reported it and the inmate was moved from the housing unit.
They also cited what they described as Maxwell’s “complete failure to address her offense conduct and her utter lack of remorse. Instead of showing even a hint of acceptance of responsibility, the defendant makes a desperate attempt to cast blame wherever else she can.”
Maxwell’s efforts to cast aspersions on the motives of the government for prosecuting her and her claim that she is being held responsible for Epstein’s crimes are “absurd and offensive,” prosecutors said.
“Maxwell was an adult who made her own choices. She made the choice to sexually exploit numerous underage girls. She made the choice to conspire with Epstein for years, working as partners in crime and causing devastating harm to vulnerable victims,” they said.
Prosecutors said nearly all of the $22.5 million in assets that Maxwell claimed in a bail proposal that was never granted was given to her by Epstein.
“The defendant’s access to wealth enabled her to present herself as a supposedly respectable member of society, who rubbed shoulders with royalty, presidents, and celebrities. That same wealth dazzled the girls from struggling families who became the defendant and Epstein’s victims,” prosecutors said.
The sentencing submission also included quotes from letters written to the judge by women who testified during the trial, including Kate, an ex-model from Great Britain who said “the consequences of what Ghislaine Maxwell did have been far reaching for me.”
“I have struggled with, and eventually triumphed over, substance use disorder. I have suffered panic attacks and night terrors, with which I still struggle. I have suffered low self esteem, loss of career opportunities. I have battled greatly with feeling unable to trust my own instincts, in choosing romantic relationships,” she wrote. | https://cw33.com/news/u-s-news/ap-us-headlines/feds-ghislaine-maxwell-deserves-at-least-30-years-in-prison/ | 2022-06-24T00:03:56Z |
AUSTIN, Texas, Sept. 12, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Energy Exploration Technologies Inc.'s (EnergyX) announced it has added global sports and entertainment company Endeavor to its advisory roster, as the company looks to throw its support behind the global transition to a clean energy future. Keen on being involved in the United States' shift towards renewable energy and electric mobility, the business identified the lithium and battery sectors as critical areas of interest, and EnergyX as one of the leading American companies working on providing green jobs and sustainable technology within that industry.
With major world economies and global companies seeking to reduce their environmental footprint and impact, investments into low-carbon solutions are skyrocketing. For Endeavor, this means working with entities like EnergyX capable of bringing forth disruptive innovation in lithium, battery, and energy transition technology. The company joins advisors from NASA's Ames Research Center, Tesla Energy, CATL (the largest global battery producer), and General Electric Energy Storage.
Co-founded by CEO Ariel Emanuel in 1995, Endeavor is home to a number of industry leaders including entertainment agency WME; sports, fashion, events and media company IMG; and premier mixed martial arts organization UFC. The Endeavor network specializes in talent representation, sports operations & advisory, event & experiences management, media production & distribution, experiential marketing and brand licensing.
Founded in 2018 by CEO Teague Egan, EnergyX is a developing lithium and battery technologies to provide efficient, sustainable solutions to challenges facing global electric vehicle supply chains. From the raw lithium extraction process to refining, and the manufacturing of next generation batteries, EnergyX is innovating from lithium brine to battery. The company has filed over 50 patents to this end, and is developing its proprietary Lithium Ion Transport and Separation (LiTAS™) and Solid State Lithium Metal Battery (SoLiS™) technologies. Its LiTAS™ technology has been piloted in the Lithium Triangle in South America and increases lithium production from 30% in existing systems up to 94% recovery rate for that particular pilot project.
The news follows the announcement of a $450 million investment commitment from Global Emerging Markets (GEM) to boost commercialization efforts and solidify EnergyX as a market leader of direct lithium extraction and refinery technologies. EnergyX will look to Endeavor for valuable support, knowledge, relationships, and advice as the team looks to become a global force within the lithium industry.
"Bringing on Endeavor in this capacity is an honor for EnergyX and showcases our innovative and creative spirit," explains EnergyX CEO Teague Egan, "Ari's business achievements and relationships are unmatched and his vision truly spectacular. I'm thankful his company is engaged in the energy transition, and devoting time to a clean, sustainable future, which is a critically important issue for all of us."
For further information or to arrange interviews, please contact:
James Ellsmoor, Director of Communications, james@energyx.com
+1 510 426 7206
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SOURCE EnergyX | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/09/12/energyx-taps-endeavor-advisory-services-it-expands-its-global-footprint/ | 2022-09-12T14:13:20Z |
BOSTON (AP) — Shohei Ohtani left his mark on Fenway Park with the finest two-way performance since Babe Ruth himself.
Pitching at the historic ballpark for the first time, Ohtani struck out 11 in seven shutout innings and added two hits — one of them a 109 mph line drive that banged off the Green Monster so hard that it knocked his No. 17 out of the pitcher’s slot on the manual scoreboard.
“I hope you don’t start taking that for granted. Like it’s old hat,” Angels manager Joe Maddon said of Ohtani’s skills. “It’s just so unusual. It’s otherworldly, on this level of this game.”
The display came during Los Angeles’ 8-0 win over Boston Thursday that included a five-run eighth inning in the ballpark where Ruth debuted in 1914 and played six seasons before the Red Sox sold him to the Yankees.
In the fourth, Ohtani hit a 389-foot single that was about a foot shy of being a home run. In the eighth, he singled off the left-field wall to drive in one run, then scored as the Angels turned a 2-0 game into a blowout.
Ohtani (3-2) also induced 29 swings and misses from Boston batters — a career high, and the most for any pitcher this year. He threw 81 of his 99 pitches for strikes, also a career high.
“It’s one of my favorite ballparks,” said Ohtani, who has batted .302 with two homers in 10 games at Fenway. “I was looking forward to pitching here.”
Ohtani’s start was pushed back two days because of groin tightness and came about 14 hours after the Angels scored six times in the 10th inning to beat the Red Sox 10-5. As the designated hitter in that contest, Ohtani walked in the ninth and walked and scored in the 10th.
“To be honest, I was pretty fatigued,” he said. “My body was pretty tired. I tried to get to sleep as early as possible and get enough sleep and rest. I think I was able to do that.”
Jared Walsh had four RBIs, curling a two-run homer around the left-field foul pole in the seventh to break a scoreless tie. Anthony Rendon followed with an RBI single to chase Tanner Houck (2-2), and Walsh added a two-run dribbler through the shifted infield to make it 7-0.
Houck gave up seven runs on five hits and a walk, striking out four in 2 1/3 innings.
Brandon Marsh added a solo homer in the ninth.
Ohtani allowed six hits and no walks in all. He also threw a wild pitch that allowed Rafael Devers to reach base on a strikeout in the first.
Ohtani gave up a leadoff double to Jackie Bradley Jr. in the fifth. In the sixth, J.D. Martinez doubled with one out but was stranded when Andrew Velazquez made a diving catch of Franchy Cordero’s blooper to end the inning.
HISTORY
Ohtani was the first pitcher at Fenway to bat in the top four of the order since Ruth, who was the Red Sox’s cleanup hitter in the first game of a Sept. 20, 1919, doubleheader.
In the fourth inning, Ohtani matched another Red Sox Hall of Famer by becoming the first starting pitcher to record a hit at Fenway since Roger Clemens in 1996. Ohtani and Clemens are the only starting pitchers to record hits at Fenway in the designated hitter era.
FOR STARTERS
Rich Hill pitched five shutout innings for Boston, allowing one hit and one walk while striking out six. He remains winless for the season despite allowing zero runs over 13 innings in his last three starts.
Hill retired the first nine batters in order, then walked Taylor Ward to lead off the fourth. With two outs, Ohtani lofted a high fly ball to center field that Bradley lost in the sun and the wind. It bounced off the wall abutting the Red Sox bullpen. Ward, who had to wait, scampered to third, but Ohtani was held to a single.
TRAINER’S ROOM
Ohtani fouled a ball off the inside of his right ankle in the seventh, but stayed in the game.
UP NEXT
Angels: Return home to open a three-game series Friday against the Washington Nationals, who will pitch RHP Joan Adon (1-4). Maddon said Thursday he was not ready to announce a starter.
Red Sox: Host the Chicago White Sox in the Friday’s opener of a three-game series. RHP Nathan Eovaldi (1-0) will start against RHP Vince Velasquez (1-2).
___
More AP MLB: https://apnews.com/hub/mlb and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports | https://cw33.com/sports/ap-sports/ohtanis-fenway-debut-a-success-with-11-ks-rbi-in-8-0-rout/ | 2022-05-05T22:59:47Z |
NEW YORK, June 20, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Attention Riskified Ltd. ("Riskified Ltd.") (NYSE: RSKD) shareholders:
The Law Offices of Vincent Wong announce that a class action lawsuit has commenced on behalf of investors. This lawsuit is on behalf of all persons or entities who purchased Riskified Class A ordinary shares in or traceable to the Company's July 2021 initial public offering.
If you suffered a loss on your investment in Riskified Ltd., contact us about potential recovery by using the link below. There is no cost or obligation to you.
ABOUT THE ACTION: The class action against Riskified Ltd. includes allegations that the Company made materially false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (i) as Riskified expanded its user base, the quality of Riskified's machine learning platform had deteriorated (rather than improved as represented in documents issued in connection with the July 2021 initial public offering), because of, among other things, inaccuracies in the algorithms associated with onboarding new merchants and entering new geographies and industries; (ii) Riskified had expanded its customer base into industries with relatively high rates of fraud – including partnerships with cryptocurrency and remittance business – in which Riskified had limited experience and that this expansion has negatively impacted the effectiveness of Riskified's machine learning platform; (iii) as a result, Riskified was suffering from materially higher chargebacks and cost of revenue and depressed gross profits and gross profit margins during its third fiscal quarter of 2021; and (iv) thus, the representations in documents issued in connection with the July 2021 initial public offering regarding Riskified's historical financial and operational metrics and purported market opportunities did not accurately reflect the actual business, operations, and financial results and trajectory of Riskified prior to and at the time of the July 2021 initial public offering, and were materially false and misleading, and lacked a factual basis.
DEADLINE: July 1, 2022
Aggrieved Riskified Ltd. investors only have until July 1, 2022 to request that the Court appoint you as lead plaintiff. You are not required to act as a lead plaintiff in order to share in any recovery.
Vincent Wong, Esq. is an experienced attorney who has represented investors in securities litigations involving financial fraud and violations of shareholder rights. Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.
CONTACT:
Vincent Wong, Esq.
39 East Broadway
Suite 304
New York, NY 10002
Tel. 212.425.1140
E-Mail: vw@wongesq.com
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SOURCE The Law Offices of Vincent Wong | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/06/20/class-action-alert-law-offices-vincent-wong-remind-riskified-ltd-investors-lead-plaintiff-deadline-july-1-2022/ | 2022-06-20T11:11:25Z |
- New 10-year contract combines existing rotary and fixed wing services into fully integrated, innovative solution led by Bristow
- Bristow-led consortium to begin transitioning to new contract beginning September 30, 2024 through December 31, 2026, to ensure a continuation of critical lifesaving search and rescue aviation services across the whole of the U.K.
LONDON, July 21, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Bristow Helicopters Ltd (NYSE: VTOL) ("Bristow"), the global leader in innovative and sustainable vertical flight solutions, has been awarded a £1.6 billion 10-year contract for the Second-Generation Search and Rescue Aviation ("UKSAR2G") program by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA), an executive agency of the Department for Transport.
Bristow will work in partnership with 2Excel Aviation, a leading specialist in fixed wing aerospace services, and Nova Systems, the consortium's innovation partner, to deliver the contract for the MCA on behalf of Her Majesty's Coastguard. The new contract will see the U.K. search and rescue region benefit from innovation and advances in technology to save more lives, even more quickly.
The contract combines the existing two separate aviation contracts for fixed wing aircraft and rotary aircraft and will include the use of unmanned aerial systems (UAS). Since 2013 and 2019, respectively, Bristow and 2Excel have operated search and rescue services for the U.K. in the original SAR and Aerial Surveillance contracts. During that time, the companies have displayed exceptional quality, innovation, and skill in their work rescuing over 4,500 people over the past seven years.
"We are very pleased with the MCA's trust in Bristow to continue to provide safe and reliable search and rescue services with our crews to help save lives throughout the United Kingdom," said Bristow President and CEO Chris Bradshaw. "Through this new, innovative contract, Bristow and our partners will increase efficiencies and innovations as well as establish additional seasonal bases to further expand our service."
As part of the new contract, Bristow will continue to operate from their current 10 bases and will launch two new seasonal bases in Fort William and Carlisle, to serve areas around two of the busiest locations for summer tourism. The Fort William and Carlisle bases will operate 12 hours a day from April to September. All other helicopter bases will continue to be operational 24 hours a day.
The partners will operate:
- 18 helicopters, including nine existing Leonardo AW189s and three existing Sikorsky S-92s augmented by the introduction of six new Leonardo AW139 helicopters;
- Six King Air fixed-wing airplanes, including the B350, B350ER and the B200 at Doncaster, Prestwick and Newquay; and
- One mobile deployable Schiebel CAMCOPTER S-100 UAS.
"Since inception 2Excel has built a reputation for being highly skilled at creating innovative solutions and quickly turning complex aviation concepts into leading edge capabilities. The UKSAR2G contract with the MCA exemplifies this fact," said Andy Offer, Co-founder and Director of 2Excel Aviation. "This contract builds on the existing capabilities we have delivered to the MCA over the past few years with our fixed-wing aircraft packed with state-of-the-art integrated sensors; delivering services to a myriad of government agencies including border security, fisheries patrol, as well as life-saving search and rescue for HM Coastguard – working collaboratively with our partner Bristow."
Through the new contract, Bristow and its partners 2Excel and Nova Systems will work to deliver greater innovation in the provision of search and rescue services across the U.K. region, providing even greater levels of support to those at risk.
"Nova Systems is thrilled to be teamed with Bristow and 2Excel for UKSAR2G in the role of Programme Innovation Partner. With our experience working at the leading edge of aerospace technology and mission system development, and with our unique mix of technical and operational domain expertise, we look forward to enhancing the U.K.'s SAR capability and delivering a world-class innovation programme to the Bristow team and the MCA," said Gareth Dyer, Managing Director, International for Nova Systems.
Bristow will provide a new state-of-the-art search and rescue helicopter simulation training facility at Solent Airport next to the Coastguard Training Facility, which will house a synthetic rescue hoist and helicopter suspended over a large training pool. Another innovation includes the use of sustainable aviation fuels, reducing the carbon footprint in the delivery of these services.
The companies will transition from the current contracts starting from September 30, 2024 through to December 31, 2026, to ensure a continuation of critical search and rescue aviation services across the whole of the U.K.
Bristow is currently in a pre-earnings quiet period and will provide further information following the release of its quarterly financial results in early August.
About Bristow Group
Bristow Group Inc. is the leading global provider of innovative and sustainable vertical flight solutions. Bristow primarily provides aviation services to a broad base of major integrated, national and independent offshore energy companies. Bristow provides commercial search and rescue (SAR) services in several countries and public sector SAR services in the United Kingdom (U.K.) on behalf of the Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA). Additionally, the Company offers ad hoc helicopter and fixed wing transportation services.
Bristow currently has customers in Australia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, the Dutch Caribbean, Guyana, India, Mexico, the Netherlands, Nigeria, Norway, Spain, Suriname, Trinidad, the U.K. and the U.S. To learn more, visit our website at www.bristowgroup.com.
About 2Excel Aviation
2Excel is an innovative aerospace services business working across a range of industries including defence and security, engineering, events and disaster response. Activity is organised around two business lines: 2Excel Aviation, which comprises Capability Development, Special Missions and Charter; and 2Excel Engineering, which is a Maintenance and Repair Organisation (MRO) for Boeing and Airbus narrow-bodied aircraft.
Founded in 2005 by two Royal Air Force pilots, 2Excel has grown from five people and four aerobatic aircraft to over 400 people and a fleet of 30. In 2018, 2Excel Aviation became 51 per cent employee owned through the creation of an Employee Ownership Trust.
About Nova Systems
Nova Systems is a leading global engineering services and technology solutions company with more than 850 employees working from strategically located offices around the world including the United Kingdom, Norway, Ireland, Singapore, Australia, and New Zealand. We are a trusted partner to solve complex challenges for clients across defence, parapublic, government, special missions and commercial aerospace. Our company brings two decades of aviation experience built on a foundation of operational and technical expertise to deliver bespoke, low-risk solutions.
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SOURCE Bristow Group | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/07/21/bristow-awarded-second-generation-search-rescue-aviation-contract-by-maritime-coastguard-agency/ | 2022-07-21T14:23:29Z |
Man charged with election interference tied to Capitol riot
(AP) - A Virginia man who is facing trial on charges that he drove a Hummer packed with guns to Philadelphia to interfere with the 2020 presidential election has been arrested in a separate case that alleges his involvement in the Jan. 6 insurrection at the U.S. Capitol.
Antonio LaMotta was arrested Tuesday in the southeastern Virginia city of Chesapeake, according to court documents filed in U.S. District Court in Washington.
He faces federal misdemeanor offenses, including illegal entry and disorderly conduct at the U.S. Capitol in January 2021. Lawmakers had gathered that day to count Electoral College results, which showed that President Joe Biden won the election.
LaMotta, 63, is among more than 850 people charged with federal crimes for their alleged conduct inside the Capitol building. But he stands out for the case already pending against him and another man in Philadelphia.
In November 2020, LaMotta and Joshua Macias drove to a Philadelphia convention center where votes were being counted for the presidential election, prosecutors have alleged. The men arrived in a Hummer adorned with a QAnon sticker and loaded with an AR-15-style rifle, more than 100 rounds of ammunition and other weapons.
QAnon centers on the baseless belief that former President Donald Trump had waged a secret campaign against enemies in the “deep state” and a child sex trafficking ring run by satanic pedophiles and cannibals.
Prosecutors say Macias and LaMotta had planned a mass shooting as the election hung in the balance but were thwarted by an FBI tip about their travels. A trial for the men is scheduled for October. Charges include interfering with an election.
At a preliminary hearing last year, lawyers for both men argued there was no evidence they interfered or tried to interfere with election-related activities. The lawyers said that it appeared the men were being punished for their beliefs, including support for false theories that the presidential election was fraudulent.
The criminal complaint against LaMotta for his alleged actions on Jan. 6 states he was identified through images captured on Capitol surveillance cameras as well as police body cameras. LaMotta also was identified by an FBI agent who had interviewed him after his arrest in Philadelphia.
“LaMotta entered the Capitol building through the east Rotunda doors at approximately 3:21 p.m.,” the federal complaint stated. “He was part of a group of rioters that pushed past police officers working to bar entry into the building. Police pushed LaMotta out of the building, along with other rioters, at approximately 3:29 p.m.”
More than 350 Capitol riot defendants have pleaded guilty, mostly to misdemeanor offenses. People convicted of misdemeanors have received sentences ranging from probation to eight months behind bars.
An attorney was not listed for LaMotta in federal court documents related to the Capitol riot case. His attorney for the case in Philadelphia, Lauren Wimmer, did not immediately respond to an email seeking comment.
___
Associated Press writer Alanna Durkin Richer contributed to this report.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | https://www.wibw.com/2022/08/17/man-charged-with-election-interference-tied-capitol-riot/ | 2022-08-17T18:11:35Z |
NEW YORK, July 20, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Gross Law Firm issues the following notice to shareholders of Unilever PLC.
Shareholders who purchased shares of UL during the class period listed are encouraged to contact the firm regarding possible lead plaintiff appointment. Appointment as lead plaintiff is not required to partake in any recovery.
CLASS PERIOD: This lawsuit is on behalf of all persons who purchased or otherwise acquired Unilever American Depositary Receipts between September 2, 2020 and July 21, 2021, inclusive.
ALLEGATIONS: The complaint alleges that during the class period, Defendants issued materially false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: a) in July 2020, the board of Ben & Jerry's, one of Unilever's marquee brands, passed a resolution to end sales of its ice cream in "Occupied Palestinian Territory" ; and b) this boycott decision risked adverse governmental actions for violations of laws, executive orders, or resolutions aimed at discouraging boycotts, divestment, and sanctions of Israel adopted by 35 U.S. states.
DEADLINE: August 15, 2022 Shareholders should not delay in registering for this class action. Register your information here: https://securitiesclasslaw.com/securities/unilever-plc-loss-submission-form/?id=29980&from=4
NEXT STEPS FOR SHAREHOLDERS: Once you register as a shareholder who purchased shares of UL during the timeframe listed above, you will be enrolled in a portfolio monitoring software to provide you with status updates throughout the lifecycle of the case. The deadline to seek to be a lead plaintiff is August 15, 2022. There is no cost or obligation to you to participate in this case.
WHY GROSS LAW FIRM? The Gross Law Firm is nationally recognized class action law firm, and our mission is to protect the rights of all investors who have suffered as a result of deceit, fraud, and illegal business practices. The Gross Law Firm is committed to ensuring that companies adhere to responsible business practices and engage in good corporate citizenship. The firm seeks recovery on behalf of investors who incurred losses when false and/or misleading statements or the omission of material information by a company lead to artificial inflation of the company's stock. Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.
CONTACT:
The Gross Law Firm
15 West 38th Street, 12th floor
New York, NY, 10018
Email: dg@securitiesclasslaw.com
Phone: (646) 453-8903
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SOURCE The Gross Law Firm | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/07/20/shareholder-alert-gross-law-firm-notifies-shareholders-unilever-plc-class-action-lawsuit-lead-plaintiff-deadline-august-15-2022-nyse-ul/ | 2022-07-20T11:00:23Z |
NEW YORK (AP) — A New York appellate court judge on Tuesday rejected Donald Trump’s bid to halt his $10,000-a-day fine, keeping the former president’s meter running for now as he fights a lower-court decision penalizing him for failing to turn over documents in a state civil investigation.
Judge Tanya Kennedy, of the appellate division of the state’s trial court, denied Trump’s interim application to pause the fine pending his appeal. The court’s full bench will weigh in on Trump’s motion to stay the fine later this month, Kennedy said.
Trump’s attorney Alina Habba requested the stay Monday, a week after Manhattan Judge Arthur Engoron fined Trump for failing to comply with a subpoena issued in New York Attorney General Letitia James’ probe of his business dealings.
Habba wrote in a court filing that Engoron’s ruling was “unconscionable and indefensible.” The judge found that Trump, who is appealing the ruling, and his lawyers had failed to show they conducted a proper search for subpoenaed records.
In asking the appellate court to pause his fine, Trump sought to stop it from accruing while he seeks to overturn Engoron’s ruling — potentially saving him hundreds of thousands of dollars if the appellate court ultimately upholds the contempt finding.
Trump is also appealing Engoron’s Feb. 17 ruling requiring him to answer questions under oath. Oral arguments in that appeal are scheduled for May 11. No arguments have been scheduled in Trump’s contempt challenge.
In a written statement Tuesday, Trump, a Republican, lashed out at James and the state’s court system. He called the attorney general, who is a Black Democrat, “racist,” said the courts were “biased, unyielding, and totally unfair” and claimed to have turned over “millions of pages of documents, perhaps more than any person or entity has ever given before.”
“This is a continuation of the greatest Witch Hunt in history, and it should not be allowed to continue,” Trump said. “The good news is, I have done nothing wrong!”
A message seeking comment was left with Habba.
James, a Democrat, asked Engoron to hold Trump in contempt after he failed to produce any documents to satisfy a March 31 deadline to meet the terms of the subpoena. She has said her investigation has found evidence that Trump may have misstated the value of assets like skyscrapers and golf courses on financial statements for over a decade.
Habba told Engoron that she met with Trump to ensure he had no records and there were none to be found. On Friday, she submitted additional documents explaining the document search, including an affidavit in which Trump claimed he has no documents. Engoron criticized the affidavit as lacking in detail.
In seeking to halt the fine, Habba said Trump and his representatives had performed a “diligent, thorough and comprehensive search” for everything sought in the subpoena and provided complete and accurate responses to the attorney general. She said the additional submissions last week amounted to “extraordinary efforts to comply.”
“Given these circumstances, it is unconscionable and indefensible for Appellant to be held in contempt in any manner, must less at the inordinate expense of $10,000 per day,” she said.
___
Associated Press reporter Larry Neumeister contributed to this report. | https://cw33.com/news/politics/ap-politics/court-wont-pause-trumps-10k-a-day-fine-while-he-appeals/ | 2022-05-04T16:52:55Z |
NEW YORK, Sept. 14, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Halper Sadeh LLC, an investor rights law firm, is investigating the following companies for potential violations of the federal securities laws and/or breaches of fiduciary duties to shareholders relating to:
Gemini Therapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ: GMTX)'s merger with Disc Medicine, Inc. Pre-merger Gemini shareholders are expected to own approximately 28% of the combined company. If you are a Gemini shareholder, click here to learn more about your rights and options.
Ra Medical Systems, Inc. (NYSE: RMED)'s merger with Catheter Precision, Inc. If you are a Ra Medical shareholder, click here to learn more about your rights and options.
CarLotz, Inc. (NASDAQ: LOTZ)'s sale to Shift Technologies, Inc. for 0.692158 shares of Shift common stock for each share of CarLotz common stock. If you are a CarLotz shareholder, click here to learn more about your rights and options.
Halper Sadeh LLC may seek increased consideration for shareholders, additional disclosures and information concerning the proposed transaction, or other relief and benefits on behalf of shareholders.
Shareholders are encouraged to contact the firm free of charge to discuss their legal rights and options. Please call Daniel Sadeh or Zachary Halper at (212) 763-0060 or email sadeh@halpersadeh.com or zhalper@halpersadeh.com.
Halper Sadeh LLC represents investors all over the world who have fallen victim to securities fraud and corporate misconduct. Our attorneys have been instrumental in implementing corporate reforms and recovering millions of dollars on behalf of defrauded investors.
Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Halper Sadeh LLC
Daniel Sadeh, Esq.
Zachary Halper, Esq.
(212) 763-0060
sadeh@halpersadeh.com
zhalper@halpersadeh.com
https://www.halpersadeh.com
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SOURCE Halper Sadeh LLP | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/09/14/shareholder-update-halper-sadeh-llc-investigates-gmtx-rmed-lotz/ | 2022-09-14T14:39:10Z |
NEW YORK (AP) — Stocks shed early losses and turned higher in afternoon trading on Wall Street as investors remain focused on the economy and prepare for several updates from retailers this week.
The S&P 500 rose 0.2% as of 12:04 p.m. Eastern Monday. The benchmark index has risen for four straight weeks and is up 13% so far in the third quarter, although it’s still lower for the year.
The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 95 points, or 0.3%, to 33,861 and the Nasdaq rose 0.4%.
U.S. crude oil prices slumped 3.8% on worries about the global economy and weighed heavily on energy stocks. Exxon Mobil fell 1.7%.
China’s central bank cut a key interest rate after acknowledging more needs to be done to shore up its economy. The country is the world’s second-largest consumer of crude oil. It’s the latest warning for markets that are already on edge over record-high inflation and fears about recessions in the U.S. and elsewhere.
Treasury yields fell as a measure of manufacturing in New York state unexpectedly sank deeply into contraction. The yield on the 10-year Treasury, which banks use to set mortgage rates, fell to 2.78% from 2.83% late Friday.
Financial stocks also fell broadly. Capital One fell 2.3%.
Retailers and makers of consumer staples made gains. Costco rose 1.5%.
Moderna rose 2.6% after British regulators authorized an updated version of its COVID-19 vaccine.
The broader market has posted gains for four straight weeks on hopes that inflation is peaking and the Federal Reserve could ease up on its aggressive interest rate hikes. The central bank has been raising short-term interest rates to help slow economic growth and cool the hottest inflation in 40 years.
Wall Street is worried that the Fed could hit the brakes too hard and send the economy into a recession, and any signal that inflation could be peaking or retreating has helped ease some of those worries.
Investors are also keeping a close watch on how inflation is affecting businesses and consumers. Spending has slowed and the broader economy has already contracted for two straight quarters. Several big retailers will report their earnings this week and give investors more details on how some businesses are holding up.
Home Depot and Walmart will report their latest results on Tuesday and Target will report results on Wednesday.
Wall Street will also get a broader look at the health of the retail sector and consumer spending when the Commerce Department releases its July retail sales report on Wednesday. Economists surveyed by FactSet expect modest 0.2% growth from June, when sales rose 1%. That increase largely reflected higher prices, particularly for gas. But it also showed that Americans continue to spend, providing crucial support for the economy, though some economists suggest that’s mostly coming from higher-income households. | https://cw33.com/business/ap-business/asian-shares-mixed-after-china-cuts-key-rate-japan-gdp-up/ | 2022-08-15T17:15:47Z |
Additions to executive team strengthen global leadership and position Company for strategic long-term growth
First-ever product launch of long-acting amubarvimab/romlusevimab combination therapy for COVID-19 in China advances Brii Bio from clinical development to commercial stage biotechnology company
On track to advance clinical programs in HBV, CNS, HIV and MDR/XDR, and deliver key data read-outs in 2022
Ample funds to support operations through 2025
Company to host conference call today at 8:30 PM HKT / 8:30 AM ET
DURHAM, N.C. and BEIJING, Aug. 23, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Brii Biosciences Limited ("Brii Bio," "we," or the "Company", stock code: 2137.HK) a multi-national company developing innovative therapies for diseases with significant unmet medical needs and large public health burdens, today announced a corporate update and reported its interim results for the six months ended June 30, 2022.
Zhi Hong, Ph.D., Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Brii Bio stated: "The first half of 2022 marked an important time for Brii Bio as we achieved a number of significant corporate, clinical development and regulatory milestones. We further built up our leadership team with recent additions of a Chief Business Officer, Chief Technology Officer, Chief People Officer, and CNS Disease Therapy Area Head. We believe that our strong global executives and talented team will drive the Company's long-term growth. Recently we commercially launched our COVID-19 combination therapy in China, which also ushered the Company into an exciting new phase of growth as a commercial-stage organization. Moving forward, we have set clear strategic priorities for the organization of our R&D teams; in China, we will further strengthen our leadership position in developing HBV functional curative therapies, while in the U.S., our team will focus on advancing our highly differentiated anti-depression programs. We will continue to invest in and accelerate our pipeline for China and global markets through internal discovery and strategic partnerships."
Brii Bio's pipeline spans all phases of clinical development. As of the date of this announcement, the Company has over 10 innovative product candidates undergoing clinical development. Brii Bio and its partners' current programs are designed to address HBV, COVID-19, HIV, MDR/XDR gram-negative and NTM infections, as well as PPD/MDD or other anxiety and depressive disorders.
2022 Interim and Recent Corporate Developments
- We recently expanded our diverse global executive team with the additions of Dr. Susannah Cantrell as Chief Business Officer, Dr. Eleanor (Ellee) de Groot as our Chief Technology Officer, and Dr. Aleksandar Skuban as our CNS Disease Therapy Area Head. Also, Ms. Karen D. Neuendorff was appointed as Chief People Officer early this year. Each of these accomplished industry executives boasts a strong track record of success leading international teams.
- In July, we announced our plan to exercise the option to acquire exclusive development and commercialization rights for VIR-3434 in Greater China (Mainland China, Hong Kong, the Macau Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China and Taiwan) as part of our broader collaboration with Vir Biotechnology, Inc. ("Vir", Nasdaq: VIR). VIR-3434 grows the Company's leading clinical pipeline of therapeutic candidates for hepatitis B virus (HBV) and expands its set of potential combination treatment options to explore as part of its effort to develop a functional cure for HBV.
- Brii Bio was added to the MSCI China Small Cap Index in May 2022. The MSCI China Small Cap Index is an equity index compiled by MSCI Inc., a leading provider of critical decision support tools and services for the global investment community. The index is designed to measure the performance of the China market's small-cap segment and is widely recognized by the international financial community as a benchmark for global institutional investors seeking to optimize their investment portfolios.
- We sponsored the 20/20 Mom Annual Forum, Maternal Mental Health Now, 35th Annual Postpartum Support International Conference and the 2022 Black Maternal & Mental Health Summit. Our participation in these events help the Company foster relationships with patients, their caregivers, and the disease-specific nonprofit groups that support them. We believe this is an important step to ensure patient voices are understood across every function, from R&D to commercialization.
2022 Interim Pipeline Highlights and Upcoming Data Readouts
Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) Functional Cure Program (China team core project)
We are progressing multiple combination studies for the treatment of HBV led by our team in China and our partner Vir Biotechnology ("Vir," Nasdaq: VIR).
BRII-179 (VBI-2601) and BRII-835 (VIR-2218) (therapeutic vaccine and siRNA) Combination
- In February 2022, we completed the enrollment of 90 patients from the Asia-Pacific region in our Phase 2 multi-regional clinical trial (MRCT) combination study of BRII-179 (VBI-2601)/BRII-835 (VIR-2218).
- Patients are expected to complete treatment in the Phase 2 MRCT combination therapy study in the third quarter of 2022, with interim topline data expected by the end of 2022.
- If positive results are achieved in the combination study, we plan to initiate a pre- Investigational New Drug ("pre-IND") discussion with China's Center for Drug Evaluation ("CDE") in 2023 for a pivotal study with our combination BRII-179 (VBI-2601)/BRII-835 (VIR-2218) therapy.
BRII-179 (VBI-2601) and PEG-IFN-α Combination
- A two-part Phase 2a/2b combination study with BRII-179 (VBI-2601) in HBV patients receiving pegylated interferon alfa ("PEG-IFN-α") and nucleotide/nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTI) treatment is currently recruiting patients in China.
- Patient enrollment for part one of the Phase 2 study (Phase 2a with approximately 120 patients) is expected to be complete in the fourth quarter of 2022 with interim topline results expected in the first half of 2023.
BRII-835 (VIR-2218)
- In March 2022, we presented findings from the Phase 2 China study on the safety and antiviral activity of BRII-835 (VIR-2218) administered on top of nucleos(t)ide analog therapy at the 2022 Asian Pacific Association for the Study of the Liver (APASL) conference. The dose-dependent reduction in serum HBsAg observed in both HBeAg- and HBeAg+ Chinese chronic HBV patients in this trial after two doses of BRII-835 (VIR-2218) is consistent with previous findings demonstrated in other racial/ethnic groups.
- Our partner, Vir Biotechnology presented data at the International Liver Congress in June 2022, showing longer treatment duration of monthly BRII-835 (VIR-2218) results in deeper and more sustained reductions in hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) in participants with chronic hepatitis B infection.
- Additional data from the Phase 2 study of BRII-835 (VIR-2218) in combination with PEG-IFN-α led by Vir is expected in 2022.
BRII-877 (VIR-3434) (Study conducted by Vir)
- Data from a Phase 1 monotherapy study led by Vir were presented at the International Liver Congress in June 2022 demonstrating the dose-dependent durability of HBsAg reductions following administration of a single dose of BRII-877 (VIR-3434).
- In virally suppressed participants with HBsAg of less than 3,000 IU/mL, a single 6 mg to 75 mg dose of BRII-877 (VIR-3434) resulted in rapid HBsAg reductions of greater than 1 log10 IU/mL in most participants. Single doses of BRII-877 (VIR-3434) showed no clinically significant safety signals; all adverse events (AEs) were Grade 1 or 2. These data support the potential for BRII-877 (VIR-3434) to provide a meaningful role in the functional cure of chronic HBV infection.
- In July 2022, we announced that the Company exercised its option to in-license BRII-877 (VIR-3434) for exclusive development and commercialization rights in Greater China as part of its broader collaboration with Vir.
- We plan to request a pre-IND meeting with China's CDE for a Phase 1 study of BRII-877 (VIR-3434) by the end of 2022.
BRII-835 (VIR-2218) and BRII-877 (VIR-3434) (siRNA and antibody combination conducted by Vir)
- Our partner, Vir, shared encouraging data from Part A of its Phase 2 MARCH study in April 2022, which suggests that BRII-835 (VIR-2218) and BRII-877 (VIR-3434) are additive in reducing HBsAg, with no drug-related safety signals reported to date.
- Additional data from the first cohort (Part A) of the Phase 2 MARCH study evaluating safety, pharmacokinetics and HBsAg suppression of BRII-835 (VIR-2218) and BRII-877 (VIR-3434) combination is expected later this year.
- Part B of the Phase 2 MARCH trial initiated in the second quarter of 2022 is to evaluate additional cohorts to determine dose, length of treatment, and evaluate triple cocktails with PEG-IFN-α, when BRII-877 (VIR-3434) is given every 4 weeks.
COVID-19 Program (Internally discovered. China team core project)
- We completed a Phase 2 study of amubarvimab/romlusevimab combination therapy (formerly BRII-196 and BRII-198 combination therapy) led by Prof. Nanshan Zhong as the lead principal investigator. Data demonstrated that the combination therapy is generally safe and well-tolerated in both severe and non-severe Chinese patients with COVID-19. Favorable efficacy profiles were observed, consistent with the results observed in the ACTIV-2 study.
- As COVID-19 continues to evolve, we completed a neutralization activity evaluation on Omicron variants using live virus and pseudo Virus-Like Particles (VLPs) expressing the full-length spike protein of Omicron subvariants and available authentic Omicron viruses. The testing data from multiple independent laboratories demonstrate that the Company's long-acting amubarvimab/romlusevimab combination retains neutralizing activity against all previous variants of concern (VOC) and Omicron subvariants, including the following commonly identified ones, B.1.1.7 (Alpha), B.1.351 (Beta), P.1 (Gamma), B.1.429 (Epsilon), B.1.617.2 (Delta), AY.4.2 (Delta Plus), C.37 (Lambda), B.1.621 (Mu), B.1.1.529 (Omicron), as well as Omicron subvariants BA.1.1, BA.2 , BA.2.12.1 and BA.4/5.
- The long-acting amubarvimab/romlusevimab combination therapy was added to the COVID-19 Diagnosis and Treatment Guidelines (9th Pilot Edition) in March 2022 by the National Health Commission of China.
- The long-acting amubarvimab/romlusevimab combination therapy was commercially launched in China in July 2022 following the completion of the GMP compliance inspections.
- We announced strategic partnerships with Sinopharm and CR Pharma in March and July 2022, respectively, to advance the commercialization of our long-acting COVID-19 neutralization antibody therapy in China.
- The U.S. FDA is currently reviewing Brii Bio's Emergency Use Authorization application for the amubarvimab/romlusevimab combination.
- A randomized, double-blind and placebo-controlled Phase 2 study is under planning by the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, aiming at evaluating the level of enhanced SARS-CoV-2 specific immunity after single infusion of monoclonal neutralizing antibody (mAb) therapy, the amubarvimab/romlusevimab combination in immunocompromised population.
Central Nervous System Disease Program (Internally discovered. U.S. team core project)
BRII-296
- We are investigating the use of BRII-296 in patients with severe postpartum depression (PPD) or those at high risk of developing PPD. As there is currently no approved therapy to prevent PPD, we believe BRII-296 has the potential to shift the paradigm of PPD treatment and prevention.
- Our Phase 1 SAD study for BRII-296 is ongoing and we expect to complete enrollment in the third quarter of 2022. The initial safety, tolerability and PK data will be shared at a scientific conference in the second half of this year.
- We have requested a Type C meeting with FDA to align with our clinical development plan for both PPD treatment and prevention. We aim to start the PPD treatment study before the end of 2022.
BRII-297
- We are conducting early IND-enabling studies with BRII-297 targeting various anxiety and depressive disorders.
- We aim to initiate the Phase 1 study in the fourth quarter of 2022.
HIV Program (Internally discovered. U.S. team core project)
BRII-778
- We completed the final clinical study report for our BRII-778 Phase 1 single ascending dose/multiple ascending dose trial (SAD/MAD) in June 2022.
- Safety, tolerability and pharmacokinetic (PK) data from this study will be presented at the IDWeek Conference in October 2022.
BRII-732
- We completed our Phase 1 SAD/MAD study of BRII-732 in May 2022 with plans to present safety, tolerability, and PK data at the IDWeek Conference in October 2022.
- We have received an initial response from the U.S. FDA outlining the requirements for release of clinical hold and further clarification is ongoing. We are working closely with the Agency to align on our understanding of the safety signal identified in the islatravir-related studies. Our aim is to lift the clinical hold as soon as we can in 2022 and proceed with the development of our once-weekly oral combination of BRII-732 and BRII-778.
MDR/XDR Gram-negative Infections Program (China team core project)
We are developing our MDR/XDR therapies in collaboration with our partner Qpex as part of their global development plan. We retain responsibility for the development and regulatory activities in Greater China, while Qpex is responsible for all development and regulatory activities outside Greater China.
BRII-636 (OMNIvance®)
- In early 2022, our partner, Qpex, announced that BRII-636 (INN: xeruborbactam) in combination with a non-disclosed beta-lactam intravenous antibiotic received Qualified Infectious Disease Product (QIDP) designation by the U.S. FDA.
- Qpex has completed enrollment in a first-in-human Phase 1 study and a drug-drug interaction study. The results are expected to be shared in the fourth quarter of 2022 at a scientific conference.
- We will submit an IND application to China's NMPA in due course.
BRII-672 (ORAvance™)
- Qpex announced in early 2022 that BRII-672 in combination with a non-disclosed oral beta-lactam antibiotic received QIDP designation by the U.S. FDA, and its Phase 1 study is progressing and on track to be completed.
- We will submit an IND application to China's NMPA in due course.
BRII-693 (QPX-9003)
- Qpex announced in early 2022 that BRII-693 received QIDP designation by the U.S. FDA.
- Enrollment in the first-in-human Phase 1 clinical study has been completed, including a cohort of Chinese subjects. Qpex expects to share topline data in the fourth quarter of 2022.
- We will submit an IND application with China's NMPA in due course.
MDR/XDR Mycobacterium Tuberculosis (TB) and Non-tuberculosis Mycobacteria (NTM) Program (China team core project)
Our partner, AN2, is developing epetraborole as a once-daily, orally administered treatment for patients with chronic non-tuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) lung disease in the U.S., with an initial focus on treatment-refractory Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) lung disease.
BRII-658 (epetraborole)
- In June 2022, AN2 initiated patient screening for the pivotal Phase 2/3 clinical trial for treatment-refractory MAC lung disease.
- AN2 has completed the enrollment for a Phase 1 bridging study in Japan, and topline data is pending.
2022 Interim Financial Results
- Other Income was RMB38.2 million for the six months ended June 30, 2022, representing a decrease of RMB8.1 million, or 17.4%, compared with RMB46.3 million for the six months ended June 20, 2021. The decrease was mainly due to the decreased income recognized from confirmed PRC government grants of RMB17.8 million. The decrease was partially offset by the increase in bank interest income of RMB9.7 million attributable to the increased bank and cash balances after our initial public offering.
- Research and development expenses were RMB258.5 million for the six months ended June 30, 2022, representing an increase of RMB100.9 million, or 64.0%, compared with RMB157.6 million for the six months ended June 30, 2021. The increase was primarily due to the increase in third party contracting fees, as well as employee costs, for our continuous development in clinical trials.
- Administrative expenses were RMB95.5 million for the six months ended June 30, 2022, representing an increase of RMB27.5 million, or 40.4%, compared with RMB68.0 million for the six months ended June 30, 2021. The increase was primarily attributable to the increase in employee headcount.
- We established a streamlined commercial team to better support the launch and distribution of our amubarvimab/romlusevimab combination therapy. As a result, we started to incur selling and marketing expenses, which primarily comprise employee-related costs and prelaunch activity expenses associated with product commercialization.
- Total comprehensive expense for the six months ended June 30, 2022 was RMB217.7 million, representing a decrease of RMB2,703.8 million, or 92.5%, compared with RMB2,921.5 million for the six months ended June 30, 2021. The decrease was primarily due to the decrease in fair value loss on financial liabilities at FVTPL.
Conference Call Information
A live conference call will be hosted on August 24, 2022, at 8:30 PM Hong Kong time (August 24, 2022, at 8:30 AM U.S. Eastern Time). Participants must register in advance of the conference call. Registration link please click here.
All participants shall use the link provided above to complete the online registration process in advance of the conference call. Upon registering, each participant will receive an email with important details for this call including the call date, time and access link. This link is to be kept confidential and not shared with other participants. Additionally, a replay of the conference call will be available after the call and can be accessed by visiting the Company's website at www.briibio.com at Investor Relations part.
About Our Programs
HBV (Licensed from VBI Vaccines Inc. (VBI) and Vir Biotechnology, Inc. (Vir). China team core project)
To treat HBV, we are currently developing BRII-179 (VBI-2601), an HBV-specific B cell and T cell immunotherapeutic vaccine candidate, BRII-835 (VIR-2218), an investigational HBV-targeting siRNA, which has the potential to stimulate an effective immune response and has shown direct antiviral activity against HBV, and the newly in-licensed BRII-877 (VIR-3434), an investigational subcutaneously administered HBV-neutralizing monoclonal antibody. We hold exclusive rights in Greater China to develop and commercialize BRII-179 (VBI-2601), BRII-835 (VIR-2218) and BRII-877 (VIR-3434).
BRII-179 (VBI-2601) is a novel recombinant protein-based HBV immunotherapeutic candidate that builds upon the 3-antigen conformation of VBI's prophylactic HBV vaccine candidate, with a Th-1 enhancing adjuvant to induce both B-cell and T-cell immune responses.
BRII-835 (VIR-2218) is an investigational subcutaneously administered HBV-targeting siRNA that has the potential to stimulate an effective immune response and have direct antiviral activity against HBV. It is the first siRNA in the clinic to include Enhanced Stabilization Chemistry Plus technology to enhance stability and minimize off-target activity, which potentially can result in an increased therapeutic index.
BRII-877 (VIR-3434) is an investigational subcutaneously administered HBV-neutralizing monoclonal antibody designed to block entry of all 10 genotypes of HBV into hepatocytes and also to reduce the level of virions and subviral particles in the blood. BRII-877 (VIR-3434), which incorporates Xencor's Xtend™ and other Fc technologies, has been engineered to potentially function as a T cell vaccine against HBV in infected patients, as well as to have an extended half-life.
COVID-19 (Discovered in collaboration with Tsinghua University and Third People's Hospital of Shenzhen through our subsidiary, TSB Therapeutics Ltd (Beijing) Co. Limited. China team core project)
Amubarvimab and romlusevimab are non-competing SARS-CoV-2 monoclonal neutralizing antibodies derived from convalesced COVID-19 patients. They have been specifically engineered to reduce the risk of antibody-dependent enhancement and prolong the plasma half-lives for potentially more durable treatment effect.
Approved by the China's NMPA in December 2021, our long-acting amubarvimab/romlusevimab cocktail therapy is approved to be administered by intravenous infusion in two sequential doses for the treatment in adults and pediatric patients (age 12-17 weighing at least 40 kg) of mild- and normal-type COVID-19 at high risk for progression to severe disease, including hospitalization or death. The indication of pediatric patients (age 12-17 weighing at least 40 kg) is under a conditional approval. In March 2022, the National Health Commission of China included the amubarvimab/romlusevimab combination in its COVID-19 Diagnosis and Treatment Guidelines (9th Edition) for the treatment of COVID-19. The live virus testing data as well as pseudovirus testing data from multiple independent labs have demonstrated that the long-acting amubarvimab/romlusevimab combination retains activity against major SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern, including the following commonly identified variants, B.1.1.7 (Alpha), B.1.351 (Beta), P.1 (Gamma), B.1.429 (Epsilon), B.1.617.2 (Delta), AY.4.2 (Delta Plus), C.37 (Lambda), B.1.621 (Mu), B.1.1.529 (Omicron), as well as Omicron subvariants BA.1.1, BA.2 , BA.2.12.1 and BA.4/5.
Postpartum Depression (PPD)/Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)/Other depressive disorders (Internally discovered. U.S team core project)
We are developing BRII-296 and BRII-297 to address the challenges associated with current treatments for PPD, MDD, and other anxiety or depressive disorders. We are doing this by leveraging insight gained from, and applied drug formulation know-how utilized in developing long-acting therapies, where drug administration convenience and patient compliance are critical to potential treatment success.
BRII-296 is our novel and single treatment option for the treatment and prevention of PPD. It acts as a gamma-aminobutyric acid A (GABAa) receptor positive allosteric modulator. BRII-296 is in clinical Phase 1 study.
BRII-297 is a new chemical entity discovered internally. BRII-297 is under development for treatment of various anxiety and depression disorders.
HIV (Internally discovered. U.S team core project)
We are developing BRII-778 and BRII-732 as a once-weekly single-tablet combination therapy that will offer a more discreet, convenient, and non-invasive maintenance therapy for HIV patients.
BRII-778 is an extended-release formulation of an FDA-approved NNRTI, Edurant (rilpivirine hydrochloride). Edurant, an instant-release formulation of rilpivirine, has exhibited antiviral activity against a broad panel of HIV's most common strains. BRII-778, like all NNRTIs, binds to the NNRTI binding site, a flexible allosteric pocket located at a site adjacent to the DNA polymerizing processing site, resulting in conformational changes, and altered function of reverse transcriptase.
BRII-732 is a new chemical entity (NCE) that is metabolized upon oral administration into EFdA or islatravir. EFdA functions not only as a potent chain-terminator like other NRTIs, but also as a potent HIV reverse transcriptase translocation inhibitor (NRTTI), with high binding affinity to the active site of RT, that inhibits HIV reverse transcriptase by blocking translocation of nascently synthesized strand(s) for the next nucleotide incorporation.
Multidrug- and Extensively Drug-Resistant (MDR/XDR) Gram-negative Infections (licensed from Qpex Biopharma, Inc. (Qpex). China team core project)
We are developing our MDR/XDR therapies in collaboration with our partner Qpex as part of their global development plan. We retain responsibility for the development and regulatory activities in Greater China, while Qpex is responsible for all development and regulatory activities outside Greater China. Qpex is progressing BRII-636, BRII-672, and BRII-693 in parallel with a goal of moving each to global Phase 3 studies when we are expected to join with China as part of the global studies. BRII-636, BRII-672, and BRII-693 candidates all obtained QIDP designation from the U.S. FDA, which may receive incentives in the future. We are collaborating with Qpex to progress OMNIvance® (BRII-636, a broad spectrum BLI, in combination with an IV β-lactam antibiotic), ORAvanceTM (BRII-672, a broad spectrum oral BLI in combination with an oral β -lactam antibiotic)and BRII-693 (a novel synthetic IV lipopeptide antibiotic) for the treatment of bacterial infections, for which there are critical needs for new antibiotics treatments.
BRII-636 (BLI of OMNIvance®) is a novel cyclic boronic acid derived broad-spectrum inhibitor designed to cover all major SBLs and MBLs to restore the bacterial activity of multiple carbapenems and cephalosporins. It is administered by the IV route.
BRII-672 (BLI of ORAvanceTM) is a prodrug of BRII-636 that can be administered orally to deliver BRII-636 into the bloodstream. These agents were discovered by our partner Qpex as part of their expertise in BLIs, using the boron atom as a part of its pharmacophore.
BRII-693 (QPX-9003) is a novel synthetic lipopeptide, which has emerged as a development candidate based on a combination of increased in vitro and in vivo potency, and an improved safety profile compared to currently available polymyxins. BRII-693 has the potential to represent a significant advancement in the polymyxin class of hospital (IV) antibiotics.
MDR/XDR Mycobacterium Tuberculosis (TB) and Nontuberculous Mycobacteria (NTM) Program (licensed from AN2 Therapeutics, Inc. (AN2). China team core project)
We are developing epetraborole (BRII-658) in MDR/XDR TB and NTM with AN2. Epetraborole (BRII-658) is a novel antibiotic that has shown potent and broad-spectrum activity against mycobacteria and other bacterial pathogens in Phase 1b trials. AN2 is conducting a pivotal Phase 2/3 clinical trials of epetraborole (BRII-658) for the treatment of treatment-refractory Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) lung disease. We hold a license to develop, manufacture, and commercialize epetraborole (BRII-658) in Greater China.
BRII-658 (epetraborole) is an antibiotic with a novel mechanism of action. It is a boron-containing, orally available, small molecule inhibitor of mycobacterial leucyl-tRNA synthetase, or LeuRS, an enzyme that inhibits protein synthesis.
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This press release contains references to third-party information. Such information is not deemed to be incorporated by reference in this press release. Brii Bio disclaims responsibility for such third-party information.
About Brii Bio
Brii Biosciences Limited ("Brii Bio", stock code: 2137.HK) is a biotechnology company based in China and the United States committed to advancing therapies for significant infectious diseases, such as hepatitis B, COVID-19, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, multi-drug resistant (MDR) or extensive drug resistant (XDR) gram-negative infections, and other illnesses, such as central nervous system (CNS) diseases, which have significant public health burdens in China and worldwide. For more information, visit www.briibio.com.
Forward Looking Statement
The information communicated in this press release contains certain statements that are or may be forward looking. These statements typically contain words such as "will," "expects," "believes," "plans" and "anticipates," and words of similar import. By their nature, forward looking statements involve risk and uncertainty because they relate to events and depend on circumstances that will occur in the future. There may be additional material risks that are currently not considered to be material or of which the Company are unaware. These forward-looking statements are not a guarantee of future performance. Against the background of these uncertainties, readers should not rely on these forward-looking statements. The Company assumes no responsibility to update forward-looking statements or to adapt them to future events or developments.
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SOURCE Brii Biosciences Limited | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/08/23/brii-biosciences-provides-corporate-update-reports-2022-interim-results/ | 2022-08-24T01:13:36Z |
The September event will also see EcoFlow showcasing its full range of eco-friendly energy solutions.
BERLIN, Aug. 8, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- EcoFlow, an eco-friendly energy solutions company, today announced that it will attend IFA 2022, to be held from September 2 to 6 in Berlin, Germany. During the event, EcoFlow will unveil its latest breakthrough in family-focused portable power stations, the EcoFlow DELTA 2.
"There's no better platform to debut our next-generation of portable power stations than Europe's largest trade fair for consumer and home electronics," said Ryan Xing, Regional Head of Europe at EcoFlow. "We have high expectations for the new product as it is bound to set a new benchmark for the industry. Unveiling the DELTA 2 at IFA 2022 is an important step in our expansion within the European market and represents our commitment to providing European consumers with practical, eco-friendly energy solutions."
According to a recent study by Allied Market Research, in 2020 Europe held one-third of the global renewable energy market's share, with the European renewable energy market expected to grow at a CAGR of 8.4% from 2021 to 2030. Over the past few years, EcoFlow has taken a leading position in the European market, where consumers have shown exceptional enthusiasm towards eco-friendly energy products and renewable energy solutions. In 2022, the European market became EcoFlow's second biggest market behind the USA. During Prime Day 2022, EcoFlow was the number one seller in Europe in the eco-friendly energy solution category.
"The EcoFlow DELTA 2 is our next step in our journey to helping families and individuals everywhere untether themselves from the limitations of fixed power grids and transcend how they generate, store, and use power. EcoFlow will continue to keep pace with the European market's growing demand for renewable energy by continuing to develop innovative and portable energy solutions," said Xing.
Event Details
Dates: Sept 2 to Sept 6, 2022
Times: 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. GMT+2
Location: Hall 3.2, Stand 108, Messe Berlin, Berlin, Germany
About EcoFlow
EcoFlow is an eco-friendly energy solutions company. Since its founding in 2017, EcoFlow has provided peace of mind to customers in over 100 markets through its DELTA and RIVER portable power stations and varied accessories. EcoFlow's mission is to reinvent the way the world generates, stores and uses energy through creative, environmentally-conscious innovation.
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SOURCE EcoFlow Inc. | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/08/08/ecoflow-attends-ifa-2022-debut-new-delta-2-portable-power-station/ | 2022-08-08T14:08:12Z |
Joey Chestnut is chomp champ again in July 4 hot dog contest
NEW YORK (AP) — Frankfurter-munching phenom Joey “Jaws” Chestnut gobbled his way to a 15th win Monday at the Nathan’s Famous Fourth of July hot dog eating contest, powering down 63 hot dogs and buns at the annual exhibition of excess.
In a decisive chowdown comeback, women’s record-holder Miki Sudo downed 40 wieners and buns to win the women’s title after skipping last year’s frank fest because she was pregnant.
Monday also marked the contest’s return to its traditional location outside Nathan’s flagship shop in Brooklyn’s Coney Island neighborhood. The event was relocated in 2020 and last year because of the coronavirus pandemic.
“It’s beautiful to be back here” in front of a throng of spectators, Chestnut told ESPN after his feat, which the 38-year-old managed while wearing a surgical boot because of a leg injury.
“It hurts, but I was in the zone for a little bit. I was ignoring it,” said Chestnut, but the pain eventually slowed his pace in the 10-minute competition.
Last year, the Westfield, Indiana, resident topped his own record by consuming 76 franks and buns.
Sudo, of Tampa, Florida, set the women’s record at 48 1/2 wieners and buns in 2020, before taking last year off while expecting. She and Nick Wehry — a fellow competitive eater whom she met through the Nathan’s contest in 2018 — welcomed son Max on July 8, 2021.
From dad’s arms, the baby watched his 36-year-old mother notch her eighth Nathan’s win. She told ESPN afterward that she hoped he would someday take a message away from it.
“I want to set an example,” she said, “to do things that you love and push yourself to your absolute limits and, when things get difficult, to still give it a try. And, you know, you might actually just come out victorious.”
Sudo then took over parenting duties while Wehry tried for the men’s title.
In conjunction with the spectacle, Nathan’s donates 100,000 franks to the Food Bank for New York City.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | https://www.mysuncoast.com/2022/07/04/joey-chestnut-is-chomp-champ-again-july-4-hot-dog-contest/ | 2022-07-04T19:00:44Z |
He won $217 million in the lottery, then spent nearly all of it to help save the planet
By Camille Knight and Xiaofei Xu, CNN
A lucky Frenchman has decided to dedicate most of his record-breaking $217 million lottery jackpot to a nature foundation he created, he told Le Parisien in an exclusive interview published Wednesday.
The winner, nicknamed “Guy” by French lottery group Françaises des Jeux (FDJ), won the sum in December 2020. At the time, the jackpot was the largest in the history of EuroMillions, a seven-number lottery involving several European countries including France and the United Kingdom.
“From my point of view, the priority today is saving the planet,” Guy told Le Parisien. “We must act. It is an absolute emergency. If nothing is done in this regard, all other actions will be in vain. We will no longer exist.”
Climate scientists from around the world reported Monday renewable energy must take the place of fossil fuels, to prevent even more deadly and destructive impacts of the climate crisis. The energy transition needs to happen within this decade, the UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change concluded.
Revisiting the moment of his win, Guy told Le Parisien he could still remember his doubts and disbelief. After it became clear he was indeed the winner, he said, he made up his mind to put the money to good use.
“The minute I found out I was the lucky winner of the EuroMillions, I had the will to share my luck,” he said in the interview with Le Parisien.
He was already determined to create his own foundation at the time of his win, according to a statement from FDJ.
The result of Guy’s determination is Anyama, a foundation named after a town in Côte d’Ivoire where he spent several years during his childhood, he told Le Parisien.
“I have passed on most of my prize money and will gradually give away almost all of it,” he said.
The Anyama foundation website explained it was Guy’s memory of watching trucks loaded with trees in Côte d’Ivoire which motivated him to create an environmental foundation.
“This procession of trucks left a deep impression on me and filled me with outrage,” he said.
The lottery group FDJ welcomed Guy’s decision to donate most of his prize to saving the environment, the group’s spokesperson Thibault Mongis told CNN Friday, calling it an exceptional and generous gesture.
Guy’s winning combination in 2020 was 6, 9, 13, 24, 41 and lucky star numbers 3 and 12, according to the FDJ statement at the time.
Guy has since been dethroned as the largest jackpot winner. Another French player won the sum of $239 million in October 2021.
The-CNN-Wire
™ & © 2022 Cable News Network, Inc., a WarnerMedia Company. All rights reserved. | https://localnews8.com/news/2022/04/08/he-won-217-million-in-the-lottery-then-spent-nearly-all-of-it-to-help-save-the-planet/ | 2022-04-09T05:34:32Z |
DALLAS (KDAF) — The summer heat brings a lot of fun in the sun: days at the pool, lake or beach, more outdoor fun activities and some of the best food mankind has come to enjoy.
Wingstop is getting in on the summer fun as they’re bringing the heat with its new hot honey rub for a limited time. According to the press release, “Wingstop’s Hot Honey Rub flavor pairs the sweetness of honey with a mouthwatering kick of heat from cayenne pepper and ancho chili. But this isn’t the sticky, gooey hot honey that people have grown to expect. Wingstop’s Hot Honey Rub is a crunchy, sweet, fiery dry rub – a flavor elevation and redirection that’s sure to excite fans’ tastebuds.”
So, if you’re a fan of sweet heat, this is a rub for you. This flavor will be available to customers throughout the summer season at all Wingstop locations.
“We had to get in on the hot honey game in a way that only the Flavor Experts could – with a dry rub differentiator,” said Marisa Carona, Wingstop’s Chief Growth Officer. “Spicy and sweet fans can unite for this buzz-worthy marriage of the two. At Wingstop, we’re constantly innovating to stay top of mind and we’re confident this craveable, standout flavor will excite our most loyal and future fans alike.” | https://cw33.com/lifestyle/food-and-drink/wingstop-launches-new-hot-honey-rub-in-celebration-of-summer/ | 2022-06-29T17:38:20Z |
WASHINGTON, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Wilson Center has announced that His Excellency, Iván Duque Márquez, President of Colombia (2018-2022), will join the Center as a Distinguished Fellow. The announcement comes on the heels of a visit to Colombia by Wilson Center President and CEO, Ambassador Mark Green, and members of the Center's Board of Trustees and Global Advisory Council. Duque will begin his term with Wilson in the early fall of 2022.
"President Duque impressed the world with his leadership on so many fronts – from defending democracy, to protecting biodiversity and dealing with climate change to responding compassionately to the millions of Venezuelans who fled tyranny to Colombia ," said Ambassador Green. "We are proud to welcome him to the Wilson Center and have the benefit of his ideas and experience."
"The Woodrow Wilson Center is one of the world's most prestigious Think and Do tanks that has embraced the values of defending democracy and promoting sound policies to face migration and the climate crisis in different parts of the world," said President Duque. "With the Woodrow Wilson Center team, led by Ambassador Mark Green, we will undertake initiatives that will help countries and private sector organizations face the climate crisis we live in, as well as the migration crisis that is putting millions of people in danger. It is a great honor for me to be part of this amazing team."
President Duque's work will have a global focus with special emphasis on broad areas:
- Responding to the world's historic levels of displaced populations.
- Action on climate-related challenges and other key conservation issues.
- Advancing democratic values and economic opportunity.
"President Duque is an eminent policy and distinguished thought leader who has led his country through the pandemic and offered safe haven to millions of displaced people escaping the regime in Venezuela," said Wilson Center Board Chair Governor Bill Haslam. "On behalf of the entire Board of Trustees we are proud to welcome him as a Distinguished Fellow."
The Wilson Center invites scholars, practitioners, journalists and public intellectuals to take part in its flagship international Fellowship Program. Fellows conduct research and write in their areas of interest, while interacting with policymakers in Washington and Wilson Center staff and other scholars in residence.
Contact: Ryan McKenna
Phone: (202) 691-4217
ryan.mckenna@wilsoncenter.org
View original content:
SOURCE Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/08/11/former-colombian-president-ivn-duque-mrquez-joins-wilson-center-distinguished-fellow/ | 2022-08-11T16:47:43Z |
Transformer catches fire at Hoover Dam, leading to explosion
BOULDER CITY, Nev. (KVVU/Gray News) - Fire crews have extinguished a transformer fire at the Hoover Dam.
A video shared on Twitter showed an apparent explosion that occurred at the dam Tuesday morning, KVVU reported.
The U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, which operates the dam, said the flames were extinguished by the Reclamation/Hoover fire brigade in about 30 minutes.
No visitors or employees were hurt, and the bureau said there is no risk to the power grid.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
The engineering marvel was built in the 1930s during the Great Depression on the Nevada-Arizona border.
The National Park Service says more than 1 million people visit the dam each year.
Copyright 2022 KVVU via Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved. | https://www.wibw.com/2022/07/19/explosion-reported-hoover-dam-fire-department-says/ | 2022-07-19T19:30:00Z |
Which Radio Flyer tricycle is best?
Before your child has the balance to ride a standard bike, a tricycle introduces them to the fun of pedaling and the thrill of going faster than their legs can take them. If the name Radio Flyer sounds familiar, that’s because it’s the company behind the childhood staple “little red wagon.” But it also makes quality tricycles durable enough to be passed on to others once your child is ready to transition to a big-kid bike.
Its best tricycle is the Radio Flyer Tricycle For Toddlers. It’s designed for kids aged 2-4 and comes in red and pink.
What to know before you buy a Radio Flyer tricycle
Radio Flyer tricycle types
Radio Flyer makes four types of tricycle: big wheel, push, upright and convertible.
- Big wheel tricycles are the classic example. They have high-back reclining seats for comfort and a large front wheel for stability. They’re perfect for young kids transitioning from push models.
- Push tricycles are the smallest variety. They have no pedals and usually have no back. They are powered purely by your child pushing off the ground. These are “baby’s-first” tricycles.
- Upright tricycles are the last stage before big-kid bikes. They typically have no backrest and rely on full pedal power. The only difference between these and regular bikes is the smaller size and third wheel.
- Convertible tricycles are designed to grow with your child, from baby to just shy of standard-bike ready. They start, effectively, as a stroller. Your child sits in the chair and places their feet on stable blocks instead of pedals as you push them with a handle from behind. When they’re ready, you strip away some parts and they become big wheel-like. Once they’ve outgrown that, more pieces come off and it becomes upright-like.
Weight
Radio Flyer tricycles need to carefully balance their weight with the intended age of rider. Too heavy and younger or weaker children won’t have the strength to pedal or push the tricycle along. Too light and it becomes easy to tip over, and thus, a safety hazard.
What to look for in a quality Radio Flyer tricycle
Frame material
Radio Flyer tricycle frames are typically made of metal or plastic.
- Metal frames, usually steel, are typically used for older-leaning models. They are more durable and stable, but also heavier, so it takes more effort to get them moving. They are costlier.
- Plastic frames are typically meant for young-leaning models. They’re small and light so they can easily be pushed around before your child has the dexterity for pedals. They’re also inexpensive, so it doesn’t sting when you notice your child is too big for it three months after purchase.
Adjustable seating
Kids grow fast. Thankfully, many Radio Flyer tricycles have adjustable seating to account for this. They can only adjust so far, but some of the better tricycles have a large enough adjustment range to squeak out an extra year or two, if your child is an average height with average growth speed.
How much you can expect to spend on a Radio Flyer tricycle
Radio Flyer tricycles cost between $30-$200, though most cost $50-$75. Sub-$50 models are plastic and meant for kids who can’t pedal. Models $75-plus are usually multifunction and built to last for years.
Radio Flyer tricycle FAQ
How safe are Radio Flyer tricycles?
A. Most have many safety features that limit accidents as much as possible. For example, some have harnesses that can keep a child from falling out. Many limit how sharp an angle the wheel can be turned to and use wide wheelbases to lower the risk of tipping over. Still, kids are kids, and they may find a way to hurt themselves.
How old should a child be to ride a Radio Flyer tricycle?
A. That depends on which one you’re considering and your child. Most Radio Flyer tricycles are designed with an age range in mind, but this is more of a suggestion if your child is smaller, larger or more advanced than average in some way. That said, stroller tricycles are perfect for any child the right size to fit comfortably in the seat. Other tricycles that require effort on your child’s part can’t be used until they can comfortably walk.
What’s the best Radio Flyer tricycle to buy?
Top Radio Flyer tricycle
Radio Flyer Tricycle For Toddlers
What you need to know: This is the ultimate classic tricycle design.
What you’ll love: The seat is adjustable so your child fits perfectly and continues to fit perfectly as they grow. The frame is made of strong steel and the wheels are made of rubber for a long-lasting, quality ride.
What you should consider: This is among the heavier tricycles, which can make riding difficult for the youngest kids. A few consumers received damaged and clearly used tricycles, and others struggled with assembly.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Top Radio Flyer tricycle for the money
Radio Flyer Scoot 2 Pedal Ride-On Bike
What you need to know: This is the perfect first tricycle for your toddler. The plastic construction is surprisingly durable and light enough to be easy to move.
What you’ll love: The pedals fold up so the youngest kids can scoot around, then fold down once they get old enough to really ride. The seat is contoured for comfort.
What you should consider: Some assembly is required and a few consumers reported not receiving the necessary screws. Other parents found it difficult for their children to get around.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Worth checking out
Radio Flyer Pedal And Push Stroll ‘N Trike
What you need to know: This model features a sunshade, snack tray and cupholder and is designed to change as your child grows older.
What you’ll love: It can be used as a stroller for babies to feel like they’re riding or deconstructed down to a standard tricycle. The seat is adjustable to change as your child grows, and it has a three-point safety harness that can be removed once they’re old enough.
What you should consider: There’s no system to prevent young children from changing the front wheel direction with the handles while it’s in stroller mode.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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Jordan C. Woika writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
Copyright 2022 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved. | https://cw33.com/reviews/br/toys-games-br/outdoor-toys-br/best-radio-flyer-tricycle/ | 2022-04-09T14:12:51Z |
- Second Quarter 2022 Revenue Increased Approximately 17% to $2.3 Billion Over the Same Quarter Last Year
- GAAP Net Income of $16.3 Million, Adjusted EBITDA of $179 Million, Diluted Earnings Per Share of $0.20 and Adjusted Diluted Earnings Per Share of $0.73
- Record 18-Month Backlog as of June 30, 2022 of $11.0 Billion, a Sequential Increase of $360 Million and a $1.8 Billion Increase Over the Same Quarter Last Year
CORAL GABLES, Fla., Aug. 4, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- MasTec, Inc. (NYSE: MTZ) today announced 2022 second quarter financial results and its view for annual 2022 financial results, in line with previously announced guidance expectations.
Second quarter 2022 revenue increased approximately 17% to $2.3 billion compared to $2.0 billion for the second quarter of 2021, driven by an approximately $600 million increase in non-Oil & Gas segment revenue, partially offset by an expected $300 million decrease in the Oil & Gas segment revenue. GAAP net income was $16.3 million, or $0.20 per diluted share, compared to net income of $75.8 million, or $1.02 per diluted share, in the second quarter of 2021.
Second quarter 2022 adjusted net income and adjusted diluted earnings per share, both non-GAAP measures, were $56.0 million and $0.73, respectively, as compared to adjusted net income and adjusted diluted earnings per share of $96.0 million and $1.29, respectively, in the second quarter of 2021. Second quarter 2022 adjusted EBITDA, also a non-GAAP measure, was $179 million, compared to $229 million in the second quarter of 2021. The Company's second quarter performance is in line with previously communicated guidance expectations and reflects acquisition integration efforts, inflation pressures on costs, as well as a significant shift in 2022 operations to non-Oil & Gas segments.
18-month backlog as of June 30, 2022 was a record $11.0 billion, an increase of 20% compared to last year's second quarter backlog, and also a $360 million sequential increase from the 2022 first quarter backlog level. Backlog as of June 30, 2022 was a record in all non-Oil & Gas segments for the second quarter comparable periods, further evidencing the significant shift in business mix occurring during 2022.
Adjusted net income, adjusted diluted earnings per share, and adjusted EBITDA, which are all non-GAAP measures, exclude certain items that are detailed and reconciled to the most comparable GAAP-reported measures in the attached Supplemental Disclosures and Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Disclosures.
Jose Mas, MasTec's Chief Executive Officer, commented, "While inflationary cost pressures and select execution issues are making 2022 a challenging year, we strongly believe that 2022 will mark an important inflection point for MasTec with a significant expansion of resources, scale and service capabilities in renewable power generation and power grid infrastructure as the nation transitions its power infrastructure to carbon neutral sources. This opportunity, coupled with infrastructure required to support the 5G wireless network transition and expanding trends in civil and pipeline infrastructure, provide MasTec with unprecedented growth opportunities over the next decade."
Mr. Mas continued, "With the INTREN and Henkels & McCoy acquisitions in 2021 and the recently announced Infrastructure and Energy Alternatives, Inc. (IEA) acquisition, which is currently expected to close in late fourth quarter 2022, we have made significant strategic investments over the past year that position MasTec with a compelling and complete suite of services to support long-term end market needs in renewable energy generation and power delivery. As we complete 2022 integration activities and look towards 2023, we anticipate significant opportunity for revenue growth and operating profit expansion."
Mr. Mas concluded, "I'd like to once again thank the men and women of MasTec for their dedication and commitment and I look forward to welcoming the almost 6,000 IEA team members as we close out 2022. With our portfolio now in place, our focus turns to the deployment and execution of what we believe will be a significant opportunity for healthy long-term sustainable growth."
George Pita, MasTec's Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, noted, "We expect strong free cash flow during the second half of 2022, with lower levels of capital expenditures and material purchases, as we accelerated purchases during the second quarter in order to address supply chain and cost issues. As we look towards completing the IEA acquisition later this year, we remain committed to maintaining a strong balance sheet supportive of our Investment Grade rating."
Based on the information available today, the Company is providing third quarter and full year 2022 guidance, which excludes any potential effect from the IEA acquisition. The Company currently expects full year 2022 revenue to approximate $9.2 billion. 2022 full year GAAP net income and diluted earnings per share are expected to approximate $95 million and $1.24, respectively. Full year 2022 adjusted EBITDA is expected to be approximately $750 million and adjusted diluted earnings per share is expected to be $3.09.
For the third quarter of 2022, the Company expects revenue of approximately $2.55 billion. Third quarter 2022 GAAP net income is expected to approximate $65 million, with GAAP diluted earnings per share expected to be $0.86. Third quarter 2022 adjusted EBITDA is expected to approximate $245 million or 9.6% of revenue, with adjusted diluted earnings per share expected to be $1.29.
Management will hold a conference call to discuss these results on Friday, August 5, 2022 at 9:00 a.m. Eastern Time. The call-in number for the conference call is (313) 209-7315 or (800) 263-0877 and the replay phone number is (719) 457-0820 with a pass code of 7462783. The replay will be available for 30 days. Additionally, the call will be broadcast live over the Internet and can be accessed and replayed through the Investors section of the Company's website at www.mastec.com.
The following tables set forth the financial results for the periods ended June 30, 2022 and 2021:
The tables may contain slight summation differences due to rounding.
MasTec, Inc. is a leading infrastructure construction company operating mainly throughout North America across a range of industries. The Company's primary activities include the engineering, building, installation, maintenance and upgrade of communications, energy and utility and other infrastructure, such as: power delivery services, including transmission and distribution, wireless, wireline/fiber and customer fulfillment activities; power generation, primarily from clean energy and renewable sources; pipeline infrastructure, including natural gas pipeline and distribution infrastructure; heavy civil; and industrial infrastructure. MasTec's customers are primarily in these industries. The Company's corporate website is located at www.mastec.com. The Company's website should be considered as a recognized channel of distribution, and the Company may periodically post important, or supplemental, information regarding contracts, awards or other related news and webcasts on the Events & Presentations page in the Investors section therein.
This communication may be deemed to relate to a proposed acquisition of Infrastructure & Energy Alternatives, Inc. (IEA) by MasTec, Inc. (MasTec). In connection with the proposed acquisition, MasTec and IEA intend to file relevant materials with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), including a Registration Statement on Form S-4 to be filed by MasTec that will include a preliminary proxy statement of IEA and also constitute a prospectus with respect to the shares of common stock of MasTec to be issued in the proposed transaction. The information in the preliminary proxy statement/prospectus will not be complete and may be changed. IEA will deliver the definitive proxy statement to its stockholders as required by applicable law. This communication is not a substitute for any prospectus, proxy statement or any other document that may be filed with the SEC in connection with the proposed business combination.
INVESTORS AND SECURITY HOLDERS ARE URGED TO READ THE DEFINITIVE PROXY STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS AND OTHER DOCUMENTS FILED WITH THE SEC CAREFULLY AND IN THEIR ENTIRETY WHEN THEY BECOME AVAILABLE BECAUSE THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE PROPOSED TRANSACTION.
Investors and security holders will be able to obtain these materials (when they are available) and other documents filed with the SEC free of charge at the SEC's website, www.sec.gov. Copies of documents filed with the SEC by MasTec (when they become available) may be obtained free of charge at MasTec's website at MasTec.com. Copies of documents filed with the SEC by IEA (when they become available) may be obtained free of charge on IEA's website at iea.net.
IEA and its directors, executive officers and certain other members of management and employees may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies in respect of the proposed transaction. Information regarding these persons who may, under the rules of the SEC, be considered participants in the solicitation of IEA stockholders in connection with the proposed transaction and their interests in the transaction will be set forth in the proxy statement/prospectus described above filed with the SEC. Additional information regarding IEA's executive officers and directors is included in IEA's annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2021 filed with the SEC on March 7, 2022 and IEA's proxy statement for its 2022 annual meeting of stockholders filed with the SEC on March 23, 2022. These documents may be obtained free of charge at the SEC's website, www.sec.gov, or IEA's website, iea.net.
This presentation contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements relating to expectations regarding the future financial and operational performance of MasTec or IEA; the projected impact and benefits of IEA on MasTec's operating or financial results; expectations regarding MasTec's or IEA's business or financial outlook; expectations regarding MasTec's plans, strategies and opportunities; expectations regarding opportunities, technological developments, competitive positioning, future economic conditions and other trends in particular markets or industries; the potential strategic benefits and synergies expected from the acquisition of IEA; the development of and opportunities with respect to future projects, including renewable and other projects designed to support transition to a carbon-neutral economy; MasTec's ability to successfully integrate the operations of IEA; the expected closing of, and financing sources for, the acquisition of IEA; the impact of inflation on MasTec's costs and the ability to recover increased costs, as well as other statements reflecting expectations, intentions, assumptions or beliefs about future events and other statements that do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. These statements are based on currently available operating, financial, economic and other information, and are subject to a number of significant risks and uncertainties. A variety of factors in addition to those mentioned above, many of which are beyond our control, could cause actual future results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Other factors that might cause such a difference include, but are not limited to: risks related to completed or potential acquisitions, including the acquisition of Henkels & McCoy Group, Inc., as well as the ability to identify suitable acquisition or strategic investment opportunities, to integrate acquired businesses within expected timeframes and to achieve the revenue, cost savings and earnings levels from such acquisitions at or above the levels projected, including the risk of potential asset impairment charges and write-downs of goodwill; risks related to the impact of inflation on costs as well as economic activity, customer demand and interest rates, risks related to adverse effects of health epidemics and pandemics or other outbreaks of communicable diseases, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, including its effect on supply chain or inflationary issues, as well as, the potential effects of related health mandates and recommendations; market conditions, technological developments, regulatory or policy changes, including permitting processes and tax incentives that affect us or our customers' industries; the effect of federal, local, state, foreign or tax legislation and other regulations affecting the industries we serve and related projects and expenditures; the effect on demand for our services of changes in the amount of capital expenditures by our customers due to, among other things, economic conditions, including potential adverse effects of public health issues, such as the COVID-19 pandemic on economic activity generally, the availability and cost of financing, and customer consolidation in the industries we serve; activity in the industries we serve and the impact on our customers' expenditure levels caused by fluctuations in commodity prices, including for oil, natural gas, electricity and other energy sources; our ability to manage projects effectively and in accordance with our estimates, as well as our ability to accurately estimate the costs associated with our fixed price and other contracts, including any material changes in estimates for completion of projects and estimates of the recoverability of change orders; the timing and extent of fluctuations in operational, geographic and weather factors affecting our customers, projects and the industries in which we operate; the highly competitive nature of our industry and the ability of our customers, including our largest customers, to terminate or reduce the amount of work, or in some cases, the prices paid for services, on short or no notice under our contracts, and/or customer disputes related to our performance of services and the resolution of unapproved change orders; our dependence on a limited number of customers and our ability to replace non-recurring projects with new projects; the effect of state and federal regulatory initiatives, including costs of compliance with existing and potential future safety and environmental requirements, including with respect to climate change; risks associated with potential environmental issues and other hazards from our operations; disputes with, or failures of, our subcontractors to deliver agreed-upon supplies or services in a timely fashion, and the risk of being required to pay our subcontractors even if our customers do not pay us; risks related to our strategic arrangements, including our equity investments; any exposure resulting from system or information technology interruptions or data security breaches; any material changes in estimates for legal costs or case settlements or adverse determinations on any claim, lawsuit or proceeding; the adequacy of our insurance, legal and other reserves; the outcome of our plans for future operations, growth and services, including business development efforts, backlog, acquisitions and dispositions; our ability to maintain a workforce based upon current and anticipated workloads; our ability to attract and retain qualified personnel, key management and skilled employees, including from acquired businesses, and our ability to enforce any noncompetition agreements; fluctuations in fuel, maintenance, materials, labor and other costs; risks associated with volatility of our stock price or any dilution or stock price volatility that shareholders may experience in connection with shares we may issue as consideration for earn-out obligations or as purchase consideration in connection with past or future acquisitions, or as a result of other stock issuances; restrictions imposed by our credit facility, senior notes and any future loans or securities; our ability to obtain performance and surety bonds; risks related to our operations that employ a unionized workforce, including labor availability, productivity and relations, as well as risks associated with multiemployer union pension plans, including underfunding and withdrawal liabilities; risks associated with operating in or expanding into additional international markets, including risks from fluctuations in foreign currencies, foreign labor and general business conditions and risks from failure to comply with laws applicable to our foreign activities and/or governmental policy uncertainty; a small number of our existing shareholders have the ability to influence major corporate decisions; as well as other risks detailed in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. We believe these forward-looking statements are reasonable; however, you should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements, which are based on current expectations. Furthermore, forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. If any of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or if any of our underlying assumptions are incorrect, our actual results may differ significantly from the results that we express in, or imply by, any of our forward-looking statements. These and other risks are detailed in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. We do not undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise these forward-looking statements after the date of this press release to reflect future events or circumstances, except as required by applicable law. We qualify any and all of our forward-looking statements by these cautionary factors.
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SOURCE MasTec, Inc. | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/08/04/mastec-announces-second-quarter-2022-financial-results-confirming-annual-2022-guidance-with-record-backlog/ | 2022-08-04T22:25:29Z |
COVID coverage for all dries up even as hospital costs rise
By HEATHER HOLLINGSWORTH and RICARDO ALONSO-ZALDIVAR
Associated Press
WASHINGTON (AP) — For the first time, the U.S. came close to providing health care for all during the coronavirus pandemic — but for just one condition, COVID-19.
Now, things are reverting to the way they were as federal money for COVID care of the uninsured dries up, creating a potential barrier to timely access.
But the virus is not contained, even if it’s better controlled. And safety-net hospitals and clinics are seeing sharply higher costs for salaries and other basic operating expenses. They fear they won’t be prepared if there’s another surge and no backstop.
“We haven’t turned anybody away yet,” said Dr. Mark Loafman, chair of family and community medicine at Cook County Health in Chicago. “But I think it’s just a matter of time … People don’t get cancer treatment or blood pressure treatment every day in America because they can’t afford it.”
A $20 billion government COVID program covered testing, treatment and vaccine costs for uninsured people. But that’s been shut down. Special Medicaid COVID coverage for the uninsured in more than a dozen states also likely faces its last months.
At Parkland Health, the frontline hospital system for Dallas, Dr. Fred Cerise questions the logic of dialing back federal dollars at a time when health officials have rolled out a new “test-to-treat” strategy. People with COVID-19 can now get antiviral pills to take at home, hopefully avoiding hospitalization. Vice President Kamala Harris, who recently tested positive but is back working at the White House, is an example.
“Test-to-treat will be very difficult for uninsured individuals,” predicted Cerise, president and CEO of the system. “If it’s a change in strategy on the large scale, and it’s coming without funding, people are going to be reluctant to adopt that.”
Officials at the federal Department of Health and Human Services say the new antiviral drugs like Paxlovid have been paid for by taxpayers, and are supposed to be free of charge to patients, even uninsured ones.
But they acknowledge that some uninsured people can’t afford the medical consultation needed to get a prescription. “We hear from state and local partners that the lack of funding for the Uninsured Program is creating challenges for individuals to access medications,” said Dr. Meg Sullivan, chief medical officer for the HHS preparedness and response division.
The nation has not pinched pennies on the pandemic before.
“We’re well short of universal health coverage in the U.S., but for a time, we had universal coverage for COVID,” said Larry Levitt, a health policy expert with the nonpartisan Kaiser Family Foundation. “It was extraordinary.”
Recently an urgent White House request for $22.5 billion for COVID priorities failed to advance in Congress. Even a pared-back version is stuck. Part of the Biden administration’s request involves $1.5 billion to replenish the Uninsured Program, which paid for testing, treatment and vaccine-related bills for uninsured patients. The program has now stopped accepting claims due to lack of money.
That program, along with a less known Medicaid option for states, allowed thousands of uninsured people to get care without worrying about costs. Bipartisan support has given way as congressional Republicans raise questions about pandemic spending.
The Uninsured Program was run by the Health Resources and Services Administration, an HHS agency. Medical providers seeing uninsured people could submit their bills for reimbursement. Over the last two years, more than 50,000 hospitals, clinics, and medical practices received payments. Officials say they can turn the program back on if Congress releases more money.
The Medicaid coverage option began under the Trump administration as a way to help states pay for testing uninsured people. President Joe Biden’s coronavirus relief bill expanded it to treatment and vaccine costs as well. It’s like a limited insurance policy for COVID. The coverage can’t be used for other services, like a knee replacement. The federal government pays 100% of the cost.
Fifteen states, from deep blue California to bright red South Carolina, have taken advantage of the option, along with three U.S. territories. It will end once the federal coronavirus public health emergency is over, currently forecast for later this year.
New Hampshire Medicaid Director Henry Lipman said the coverage option allowed his state to sign up about 9,500 people for COVID care that includes the new antiviral drugs that can be taken at home.
“It’s really the safety net for people who don’t have any access to insurance,” said Lipman. “It’s a limited situation, but in the pandemic it’s a good back-up to have. It makes a lot of sense with such a communicable disease.”
With COVID cases now at relatively low levels, demand for testing, treatment and vaccination is down. But the urgency felt by hospitals and other medical service providers is driven by their own bottom lines.
In Missouri, Golden Valley Memorial Healthcare CEO Craig Thompson is worried to see federal funding evaporate just as operating costs are soaring. Staff have gotten raises, drug costs have risen by 20% and supply costs by 12%.
“We’ve now exited this pandemic … into probably the highest inflationary environment that I’ve seen in my career,” Thompson said. The health system serves a largely rural area between Kansas City and Springfield.
In Kentucky, Family Health Centers of Louisville closed a testing service for uninsured people once federal funds dried up. The private company they were working with planned to charge $65 a test.
Things are manageable now because there’s little demand, said spokeswoman Melissa Mather, “but if we get hit with another omicron, it’s going to be very difficult.”
Floridian Debra McCoskey-Reisert is uninsured and lost her older brother to COVID-19 in the first wave two years ago. In one of their last conversations, he made her promise she wouldn’t catch the virus.
McCoskey-Reisert, who lives north of Tampa, has managed to avoid getting sick so far. But she’s overshadowed by fear of what could happen if she or her husband get infected.
“If either one of us get sick with COVID, we don’t have a way to pay for it,” she said. “It would likely bankrupt us if we can’t find some other help.”
Retrenchment on the uninsured mirrors some of the bigger problems of the U.S. health care system, said Chicago hospital physician Loafman.
“Quite frankly, we as a society take care of the uninsured for COVID because it’s affecting us,” he said. “You know, a gated community doesn’t keep a virus out … that’s sort of the ugly truth of this, is that our altruism around this was really self-motivated.”
___
Hollingsworth reported from Mission, Kansas. | https://localnews8.com/news/ap-national-business/2022/05/05/covid-coverage-for-all-dries-up-even-as-hospital-costs-rise/ | 2022-05-05T18:16:36Z |
After years of work, W.K. Kellogg Foundation partners in Haiti establish an alliance to strengthen local food systems and food security.
The Haiti Food Systems Alliance (HFSA) includes 14 established Haitian businesses and organizations dedicated to improving farmer incomes and children's food security.
PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti, May 19, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- A new coalition of organizations working on the ground in Haiti has united to contribute to developing the country's agricultural sector and boost food security for marginalized families.
The Haiti Food Systems Alliance (HFSA), years in the making, was formed as a local response to the top-down approach commonly adopted by external development interventions. It will contribute to local efforts to develop a Haitian-led roadmap to agricultural viability and sustainability that puts Haitian farmers and local food system organizations in the driver's seat for the benefit of Haitian children and their communities.
The Alliance includes agricultural groups supporting food production in rural communities, including Association des Cadres pour la Protection de l'Environnement (ACAPE), Acceso Haiti, Association Zanmi Agrikol (AZA), Haiti Christian Development Fund (HCDF), KORE Foundation (KORE) and Partenariat Developpement Local (PDL).
They will be supported by service partners specializing in local capacity building, research and data service, including Association pour le Developpement de Fond-des-Blancs (ADF), Centre d'Appui et de Services aux Entreprises Locales et Internationales (Caseli), Centre Haitien du Leadership et de l'Excellence (CLE), Haiti Development Institute (HDI) and Université de Quisqueya (UniQ).
Finally, three feeding partners will complete the Alliance, including Health Equity International (HEI), Model School Network (MSN) and Zanmi Lasante (ZL).
"This is very important because today we are talking about systems - the food system that encompasses the entire agricultural industry," said Cantave Jean-Baptiste, HFSA partner and director of Partenariat pour le Developpement Locale (PDL).
"At a past meeting of the W.K. Kellogg Foundation partners, we highlighted the assets and resources of our country, and many mentioned that our biggest weakness was our isolation. Today we are coming together to bring about the impact that each of us alone cannot have."
"This Alliance has a great advantage: we already know each other, as individuals, as professionals, as institutions. Many have collaborated already, and many are currently working together. Let us put these assets in service of the Alliance to strengthen the capacity of groups, farmers' organizations and social movements working for food sovereignty in Haiti."
Over the next 18 months, the Alliance will provide short-term relief to household food and economic insecurity in some of the most neglected and vulnerable communities in Haiti, while also driving improvements in local food systems and value chains to make them more inclusive, profitable and sustainable.
This will include investment in production, marketing and feeding activities in strategic value chains (corn, cassava, beans, eggs and peanuts) to rapidly improve nutrition for children in schools, hospitals and vulnerable rural communities.
The Alliance will also focus on ongoing improvement in these strategic value chains through applied research, testing and production supported by Alliance partners to increase income for rural farming households.
The HFSA draws its legitimacy from its 14 members - organizations with decades of experience in Haiti's agricultural sector, leading research, innovation and impact to support local food security and sustainability. The Alliance is founded on the belief that Haitian farmers are the motors of agricultural sustainability and must be supported, throughout the whole value chain, for Haiti's food system to reach its full potential.
After years of international funding mainly going to foreign businesses and interventions, the HFSA will fund actions to create stronger alignment between local businesses and organizations and to increase their organizational, data and technical capacity. Despite Haiti's significant challenges, which include poor governance, increased food insecurity, climate change and increased gang violence, the HFSA will present solutions in areas where real impact is possible, all the while putting in place strong collective foundations essential to a thriving food system.
"To the international community and those looking to support Haiti, we encourage you to look beyond the negative headlines, not perpetuate them, and support local solutions and development projects that address issues in a sustainable way. We need solutions that come from and empower the Haitian people," said Sergeline Renee, HFSA partner and Director of Administration and Sales for Acceso Haiti.
The HFSA partners, working across agriculture, education and healthcare sectors, and with longstanding support from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, have been highly effective in engaging communities to deploy innovative, partnership-based and community-led solutions.
To date, members of the Alliance have developed and expanded local sourcing for school feeding programs to feed more than 10,000 students, launched and expanded research and development of agricultural innovations to improve multiple value chains and developed new export products, obtained certifications, and built expertise and teams to expand market opportunities for farming families.
These organizations have also played a key role in responding to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, food insecurity, and natural disasters by helping local farmers and food systems workers provide food for hospitals and community organizations.
Now, the coalition has formalized its expanded collaboration through the creation of the Haiti Food Systems Alliance.
"Over the years, it has been an honor to partner with the organizations now serving as the foundation of the Haiti Food System Alliance. I have seen firsthand the evolution of their work as collaborators, innovators and local leaders, marching hand in hand with communities at such a critical moment in Haiti's history." said Dana François, program officer at the W.K. Kellogg Foundation.
"The Alliance is a result of years of partnerships founded on the commitment of these organization to a shared vision of families thriving through sustainable Haitian-led economic development and food sovereignty during evolving challenging global and local contexts. Much more work awaits the Alliance as it continues to fine-tune, calibrate, maintain alignment with communities' visions, to reach the impact it seeks to have on many fronts as a community-driven initiative working alongside Haitian farmers, families, and the agricultural sector."
Some of HFSA's primary goals include raising the incomes of 3,000 more smallholder farmers and creating 100 more rural food systems jobs, feeding over 8,000 more school kids with locally sourced snacks, and providing 3,000 more smallholder farmers with access to parcel-specific weather forecasting and best practices information via text or WhatsApp.
The Alliance will also seek to rapidly add and engage central and local government offices and other production, service, and feeding partners throughout the country in the years to come. Continued growth, expansion and partnership building with other organizations will increase the Alliance's impact and overall sustainability.
More information is available via the official HFSA website.
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SOURCE W.K. Kellogg Foundation | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/05/19/new-locally-led-alliance-launched-haiti-build-long-term-food-sovereignty-security-bottom-up/ | 2022-05-19T19:06:11Z |
(The Hill) – People on Social Security could see a huge spike in their checks from a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) that is itself a result of inflation.
In a letter sent on Tuesday, Senior Citizen League policy analyst Mary Johnson said recipients could see an 8.7 percent COLA spike next year.
That’s a huge increase reflective of the high inflation people are experiencing across the country, though at the same time it is actually a smaller COLA than the SCL projected just a month ago. At the time, Johnson was forecasting a 9.6 percent hike.
“After evaluating the August consumer price data, what I’m finding clearly illustrates the weakness in our inflation adjustment system for Social Security. My COLA estimate has dropped to 8.7% almost a full percentage point from the 9.6% that I forecast last month, Johnson wrote in her letter.
“That was a significant drop, but the Consumer Price Index, CPI-W (CPI-W), the index that Social Security benefits are based on, has decreased even —by 1.10 percentage point year over year to 8.7%,” the letter stated.
The 8.7 percent COLA would increase the average retiree’s benefit from the $1,656 they receive monthly to $1,800 by next year, an increase of $144.10.
This is also the highest COLA increase since 1982 when the Social Security Administration (SSA) estimated a 7.4 percent increase in the cost-of-living adjustment.
That might not translate into much more money for people living on their Social Security checks, however, given rising costs for goods and healthcare expenses.
“Across the board, retired and disabled Social Security recipients spend a bigger portion of their incomes on healthcare costs, housing, and food and less on gasoline,” Johnson said. “Over the past 12 months, they rank food costs as their fastest growing expenditure, housing, and transportation in that order.”
The Labor Department on Tuesday announced that consumer prices rose in August by 0.1 percent despite a drop in gas prices, news that triggered a steep stock selloff by aggravating concerns that inflation is not easing. | https://cw33.com/news/social-security-checks-could-become-larger-soon-heres-why/ | 2022-09-14T23:17:45Z |
3-year comparable sales growth of 2% with significant slowdown in April; Q1 EPS loss of $0.39
3-year comps for May to date running up mid-teens as promotions drive compelling value proposition
Company remains confident in long-term value creation opportunity as it helps customers live BIG and save LOTS
For the Q1 Results Presentation, Please Visit: https://www.biglots.com/corporate/investors
COLUMBUS, Ohio, May 27, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Big Lots, Inc. (NYSE: BIG) today reported a net loss of $11.1 million, or $0.39 per share, for the first quarter of fiscal 2022 ended April 30, 2022, which compares to the company's guidance, as provided on March 3, 2022, of $1.10 to $1.20 net income per diluted share. Net income for the first quarter of fiscal 2021 was $94.6 million, or $2.62 per diluted share.
Net sales for the first quarter of fiscal 2022 totaled $1.37 billion, a 15.4% decrease compared to $1.63 billion for the same period last year, and an increase of 6.1% compared to the first quarter of 2019. The decline to last year was driven by a comparable sales decrease of 17.0%, as the company lapped an 11.3% comparable sales increase last year. Net new stores and relocations contributed approximately 160 basis points of sales growth.
Commenting on today's results announcement, Bruce Thorn, President and CEO of Big Lots stated, "Our business has grown significantly over the past two years as we benefitted not only from home-related spending but from the positive growth fueled by our Operation North Star initiatives. We have greatly improved our customer shopping experience, evidenced by an all-time high Net Promoter Score of 85% in Q1. E-commerce remains a standout, and now accounts for over 7% of our sales, with same-day deliveries growing 20% over last year. Our Broyhill and Real Living private label brands reached close to 30% of our sales, positioning us well to pursue consumer trade-down opportunities ahead.
These accomplishments helped get 3-year comparable sales growth off to a solid start in February and March, but trends materially slowed in April, resulting in a need to increase markdowns. We believe the slowdown was caused by the spending pressure our consumers felt from higher gas prices and broader inflation, which is affecting discretionary purchases across the retail industry. As a result, we missed our sales plan by approximately $100 million, the vast majority in April, while supply chain impacts across gross margin and SG&A continued to be significant headwinds."
Mr. Thorn continued, "We have reacted quickly to the changes in consumer demand by increasing value offerings to our customers, resulting in a significant acceleration to three-year comparable sales growth in the mid-teens in May. We expect the environment to remain challenging and we remain highly focused on managing the business prudently, which includes aggressively right-sizing our inventories over the course of Q2. We are focused on opening price points that drive traffic and improving gross margin rates through capitalizing on significant close-out opportunities, more targeted pricing and promotions, minimizing supply chain charges, and reducing shrink. We are also accelerating SG&A cost reductions to generate over $70 million in additional savings this year. Further, we are strengthening our balance sheet by temporarily scaling back capital expenditures associated with new store openings and remodels.
I am thankful to our talented team of 35,000 associates, who remain committed to our noble purpose of helping our customers Live BIG and Save LOTS, as they manage through increasingly tighter budgets buffeted by inflation. Continuing to delight our customers, regardless of economic conditions, is key to unlocking the full potential of Operation North Star, which we continue to believe will drive long-term sales potential of $8 to $10 Billion with a 6% to 8% operating margin."
Inventory and Cash Management
Inventory ended the first quarter of fiscal 2022 at $1,338.7 million compared to $901.5 million for the same period last year, with the 48.5% increase encompassing significantly higher unit costs and a significant increase in in-transit inventory.
The company ended the first quarter of fiscal 2022 with $61.7 million of Cash and Cash Equivalents and $270.8 million of Long-term Debt, compared to $613.3 million of Cash and Cash Equivalents and $32.1 million of Long-term Debt as of the end of the first quarter of fiscal 2021. The company expects both inventory levels and borrowings to reduce significantly during the second quarter.
Dividend and Share Repurchases
As also announced in a separate press release, on May 24, 2022, the Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.30 per common share. This dividend payment of approximately $8.7 million will be payable on June 24, 2022, to shareholders of record as of the close of business on June 10, 2022. The company did not execute any share repurchases during the quarter. The company has $159 million remaining under its December 2021 $250 million authorization.
Company Outlook
For the second quarter, the company expects three-year comps to accelerate to positive mid to high-single digits, equating to mid-to-high single digit negative comps versus 2021. Net new stores will add about 150 bps of growth versus 2021. The company expects that promotional activity will drive its second quarter gross margin rate into the low-30's and that SG&A dollars will be slightly up to 2021. Given an atypically wide range of outcomes, the company is not providing EPS guidance at this point. The company expects a share count of approximately 28.6 million for Q2. The company is taking aggressive actions to improve gross margin rate in the back half of the year, and expects to achieve significant sequential improvement in Q3, with a Q4 that is approximately in-line with the prior year quarter. In addition, the company will continue to take actions to reduce expenses.
Conference Call/Webcast
The company will host a conference call today at 8:00 a.m. ET to discuss the financial results for the first quarter of fiscal 2022. A webcast of the conference call is available through the Investor Relations section of the company's website http://www.biglots.com. An archive of the call will be available through the Investor Relations section of the company's website http://www.biglots.com/ after 12:00 p.m. ET today and will remain available through midnight ET on Friday, June 10, 2022. A replay of this call will also be available beginning today at 12:00 p.m. ET through June 10 by dialing 877.660.6853 (Toll Free) or 201.612.7415 (Toll) and entering Replay Conference ID 13729931.
About Big Lots, Inc.
Headquartered in Columbus, Ohio, Big Lots, Inc. (NYSE: BIG) is a leading home discount retailer and a Fortune 500 company, operating 1,438 stores in 47 states, as well as a best-in-class ecommerce platform with expanded capabilities via BOPIS, curbside pickup, Instacart and same day delivery across thousands of items. The company's product assortment is focused on home essentials: Furniture, Seasonal, Soft Home, Food, Consumables and Hard Home. Ranked one of the fastest-growing eCommerce businesses by Digital Commerce 360 and the recipient of Home Textiles Today's 2021 Retail Titan Award, Big Lots' mission is to help people Live BIG and Save Lots. The company strives to be the BIG difference for a better life by delivering exceptional value to customers through the ultimate treasure hunt shopping experience, building a "best places to grow" culture, rewarding shareholders with consistent growth and top-tier returns and doing good in local communities. For more information about the company, visit biglots.com.
Cautionary Statement Concerning Forward-Looking Statements
Certain statements in this release are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, and such statements are intended to qualify for the protection of the safe harbor provided by the Act. The words "anticipate," "estimate," "approximate," "expect," "objective," "goal," "project," "intend," "plan," "believe," "will," "should," "may," "target," "forecast," "guidance," "outlook" and similar expressions generally identify forward-looking statements. Similarly, descriptions of objectives, strategies, plans, goals or targets are also forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements relate to the expectations of management as to future occurrences and trends, including statements expressing optimism or pessimism about future operating results or events and projected sales, earnings, capital expenditures and business strategy. Forward-looking statements are based upon a number of assumptions concerning future conditions that may ultimately prove to be inaccurate. Forward-looking statements are and will be based upon management's then-current views and assumptions regarding future events and operating performance and are applicable only as of the dates of such statements. Although the company believes the expectations expressed in forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions within the bounds of knowledge, forward-looking statements, by their nature, involve risks, uncertainties and other factors, any one or a combination of which could materially affect business, financial condition, results of operations or liquidity.
Forward-looking statements that the company makes herein and in other reports and releases are not guarantees of future performance and actual results may differ materially from those discussed in such forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, including, but not limited to, developments related to the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic, current economic and credit conditions, the cost of goods, the inability to successfully execute strategic initiatives, competitive pressures, economic pressures on customers and the company, the availability of brand name closeout merchandise, trade restrictions, freight costs, the risks discussed in the Risk Factors section of the company's most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K, and other factors discussed from time to time in other filings with the SEC, including Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and Current Reports on Form 8-K. This release should be read in conjunction with such filings, and you should consider all of these risks, uncertainties and other factors carefully in evaluating forward-looking statements.
You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date thereof. The company undertakes no obligation to publicly update forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. You are advised, however, to consult any further disclosures the company makes on related subjects in public announcements and SEC filings.
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SOURCE Big Lots, Inc. | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/05/27/big-lots-reports-q1-results/ | 2022-05-27T11:11:34Z |
- New product features strong protection for battery circuits and will help the company grow its global market share of products for battery-powered electronic devices
SEOUL, South Korea, July 18, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Magnachip Semiconductor Corporation ("Magnachip") (NYSE: MX) announced today that the company has unveiled a new 24V Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor Field-Effect Transistor (MOSFET) for wireless earphone batteries.
The new 24V MOSFET addresses the goal of battery designers for long battery life after a quick charge by reducing conduction loss. The core cell density of this new product has been increased by 30% as compared to the previous version, while the design of the core cell, termination and source pads has been enhanced in order to reduce the *RDS(on) by 24%.
As a result, the conduction loss is significantly reduced while charging and discharging and the overall efficiency for protecting battery circuits is improved. In addition, this 24V MOSFET features Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) protection to suppress abnormal voltages of more than 5V and can withstand a maximum of 2kV of ESD for strong circuit protection. With these features, the 24V MOSFET can help extend the service life of earphone batteries.
Omdia, a global market research firm, estimates that the wireless earphone market will grow 15.1% annually from 2020 to 2026. This new 24V MOSFET is now in mass production and is being supplied for premium earphone batteries used by global earphone manufacturers.
"Magnachip has developed this 24V MOSFET with outstanding performance after releasing three types of low-voltage MOSFETs that were designed to meet the rigorous demands of smartphone batteries," said YJ Kim, CEO of Magnachip. "Once again, we have demonstrated technology leadership with this new product and we look forward to expanding our family of products for battery-powered devices in the near future by introducing 24V MOSFETs for VR glasses and wearable devices."
* RDS(on): On resistance, the resistance value between the drain and the source of MOSFETs during on-state operation
About Magnachip Semiconductor
Magnachip is a designer and manufacturer of analog and mixed-signal semiconductor platform solutions for communications, IoT, consumer, computing, industrial and automotive applications. The Company provides a broad range of standard products to customers worldwide. Magnachip, with more than 40 years of operating history, owns a portfolio of approximately 1,100 registered patents and pending applications, and has extensive engineering, design and manufacturing process expertise. For more information, please visit www.magnachip.com. Information on or accessible through Magnachip's website is not a part of, and is not incorporated into, this release.
CONTACTS:
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SOURCE Magnachip Semiconductor Corporation | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/07/18/magnachip-introduces-new-24v-mosfet-wireless-earphone-batteries/ | 2022-07-18T11:48:14Z |
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