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WINNIPEG, MB, Aug. 10, 2022 /PRNewswire/ - Pollard Banknote Limited (TSX: PBL) ("Pollard") today released its financial results for the three and six months ended June 30, 2022 and announced the reappointment of Dr. Jerry Gray to the Board of Directors.
Results and Highlights for the Second Quarter ended June 30, 2022
- Sales reached $115.9 million, up 2.2% from the second quarter of 2021
- Combined sales(1) in the quarter, including our share of our NeoPollard Interactive LLC ("NPi") joint venture's sales, reached $128.3 million, up 4.1% from the $123.3 million achieved in 2021
- Income from operations was $8.7 million, compared to $12.1 million in the second quarter of 2021. A significant factor impacting the decline was the receipt of $3.2 million in Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy ("CEWS") in 2021, recorded as other income, compared to $nil received in 2022
- Adjusted EBITDA(1) achieved in the second quarter of 2022 of $18.9 million decreased from $22.6 million in the second quarter of 2021, also reflecting the reduction in CEWS received relative to 2021 of $3.2 million
- NPi continued to demonstrate strong organic growth when compared to the second quarter of 2021, and both NPi and the Michigan iLottery operation have grown sequentially over the past year, achieving our second highest quarterly margin of $7.5 million
- Charitable gaming and eGaming systems businesses continue to experience unprecedented demand, achieving strong revenues and earnings
- Our instant ticket production and sales volumes were negatively impacted due to a number of factors including staffing and production challenges
- Retail sales of instant ticket products remain at strong levels
- Ongoing inflationary cost increases on our key instant ticket inputs (paper, ink and freight) continue to negatively impact margins
- Our strategy of increased selling prices on contract extensions and RFP's is seeing success in its early roll out and will help mitigate our current margin pressures in the quarters to come
- Effective immediately, our former Director Dr. Jerry Gray has been reappointed to serve as a Director until the May 2023 Annual General Meeting
"Our second quarter results are comparable with our first quarter of 2022, reflecting the strong demand in our main product categories," declared John Pollard, Co-Chief Executive Officer. "In particular our charitable gaming businesses, including eGaming systems, and our iLottery operations generated very strong results again, combining strong revenue with effective cost management to produce very positive margins."
"Our largest business remains instant tickets, and we continued to see challenges in this area, notwithstanding the ongoing significant demand from our lottery customers. Increases in the prices of key inputs such as paper, ink and freight began in the later part of 2021 and continued with greater effect in the second quarter, with some further increases expected in the third and fourth quarters of 2022. The nature of our instant ticket contracts includes longer terms (averaging around four years) with primarily fixed prices for the entirety of the term and, as such, it is very difficult to pass on large input cost increases immediately."
"However, one of our key strategies to offset these input cost increases is to raise our selling prices during contract extensions and RFP's as they come up for bid. Although our average length of contract is in the four year range, a number of significant contracts are up for extension or rebid in 2022. While still early in the process, we have had a number of successes and indications from the lottery market of higher selling prices being accepted. Often these new contracts don't start until a few months into the future so while we may not see significant immediate positive impact to our margins, the foundation is being set for improved margins over time. In the immediate term, we continue to execute other strategies to help mitigate the significant input cost increases as well."
"Our second quarter instant ticket production volume fell short of our budget by approximately 8-10% and was lower than our record production volume achieved in the first quarter of this year. A number of factors negatively impacted our production volume including: continuing challenges recruiting and retaining entry level staff, increased staffing challenges with a higher number of call-outs and absences impacting efficiency, a higher number of unexpected mechanical and production issues, and greater complexity of work as we start into our specialty season. Our sales volumes were also lower than budget reflecting the lower production volume, further negatively impacting our margins."
"We are focused on increasing our production volumes going forward as this is one of our best levers to help mitigate the higher input costs associated with our instant tickets. We believe a number of initiatives we have implemented will address the issues experienced in the second quarter and expect our production numbers to be higher in the third quarter and beyond."
"Demand for all of our main products remains very strong," remarked Doug Pollard, Co-Chief Executive Officer. "Instant ticket sales at retail remain at the high levels experienced in the first quarter of 2022, and as a result our lottery orders also remain very strong. Charitable gaming, including our eGaming systems solutions, are also seeing very strong consumer demand and our iLottery financial results achieved its second highest quarterly results ever. Lotteries are increasingly looking at new and innovative methods to provide exciting gaming opportunities to their customers, such as in-lane purchasing solutions and new game content, and Pollard is well positioned to take advantage of these new opportunities."
"Charitable gaming and eGaming systems results continue to be very strong as consumer demand remains very robust. Our pull-tab and bingo paper business generated significant positive results again in the second quarter as sales demand allows us to sell everything we produce and we continue to focus on increasing our production capacity. Strong margins reflect the strength of the current demand and our ability to pass on cost increases in this particular area."
"eGaming systems (including our Diamond Game and Compliant Gaming brands) continue to achieve record results through the use of expanded game content on our devices, including the use of progressive jackpots in certain jurisdictions, improved game content and increased installation of machines, including additional sites. As charities look to expand their involvement in eGaming, we believe Pollard is uniquely situated to capitalize on these opportunities."
"Our iLottery operations achieved significant growth when compared to the second quarter of 2021 and sequentially over the last few quarters. The $7.5 million margin earned from all of our iLottery contracts is second only to the first quarter of 2021, which experienced a very large double jackpot run. Strong gross gaming revenue growth was attained in Virginia and Alberta. And Michigan continues its steady recent growth, with margins the highest in the last four quarters, along with good cost control also contributing positively."
"We remain very excited about our business and the opportunities before us," concluded John Pollard. "While it will take time to absorb our unprecedented key input cost increases and return our instant ticket margins to their historic levels through higher selling prices, we have already seen the market accepting higher pricing during contract extensions and RFP's and we believe this will continue. And our remaining businesses including charitable gaming, eGaming systems and iLottery remain extremely strong with expectations this will continue to provide growth in the future."
Dr. Jerry Gray reappointed Independent Director
Pollard is pleased to announce today the reappointment of Dr. Jerry Gray as an Independent Director of Pollard effective immediately.
Dr. Gray had previously served as a Director of Pollard and its preceding businesses from the time of the initial IPO in 2005 until his retirement in 2021. During that time, he was an integral part of the leadership team and provided significant counsel to Pollard's senior management.
He has agreed to be reappointed to the Board of Directors on an interim basis until a permanent Director will be elected, which is anticipated to occur at the May 2023 annual general meeting.
Dr. Gray's extensive experience and knowledge of Pollard will be extremely helpful in moving the business forward and he will also be joining the Audit, Compensation and Governance and Nominating Committees immediately.
In addition to his 16 years serving on the Board of Pollard, Jerry is Dean Emeritus of the I. H. Asper School of Business at the University of Manitoba where he also held the CA Manitoba Endowed Chair in Business Leadership. He is Past Chair of the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority and a former director and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Gendis, Inc. He has consulted with many major corporations in the United States and Canada in the areas of motivation, organizational design, manpower planning, managing change, management development, incentive system design, customer service and strategic planning.
Gordon Pollard, Chairman of Pollard, stated, "Jerry is a tremendous resource and possesses a wealth of knowledge from his sixteen years of previous service to our business and we are very pleased he has agreed to join the board on an interim basis. We will continue to invest the time and resources to identify the right high-quality candidate for election to our Board of Directors and anticipate we will put forward for election a permanent independent director at the annual general meeting in May 2023. Until that time, Jerry will provide his keen insight to help Pollard continue to excel in a seamless manner from both a business and a corporate governance perspective."
Jerry Gray commented, "I am thrilled to be able to assist Pollard again through my participation as a Director on the Board and I look forward to helping the leadership team continue its successful growth, particularly given the exciting opportunities that exist at this time in both the lottery and charitable gaming markets."
Use of GAAP and Non-GAAP Financial Measures
The selected financial and operating information has been derived from, and should be read in conjunction with, the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements of Pollard as at and for the three and six months ended June 30, 2022. These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the International Financial Accounting Standards ("IFRS" or "GAAP").
Reference to "EBITDA" is to earnings before interest, income taxes, depreciation, amortization and purchase accounting amortization. Reference to "Adjusted EBITDA" is to EBITDA before unrealized foreign exchange gains and losses, and certain non-recurring items including acquisition costs, litigation settlement costs, contingent consideration fair value adjustments and insurance proceeds (net). Adjusted EBITDA is an important metric used by many investors to compare issuers on the basis of the ability to generate cash from operations and management believes that, in addition to net income, Adjusted EBITDA is a useful supplementary measure.
Reference to "Combined sales" is to sales recognized under GAAP plus Pollard's 50% proportionate share of NeoPollard Interactive LLC's ("NPi") sales, its iLottery joint venture operation. Reference to "Combined iLottery sales" is to sales recognized under GAAP for Pollard's 50% proportionate share of its Michigan Lottery joint iLottery operation plus Pollard's 50% proportionate share of NPi' s sales, its iLottery joint venture operation.
EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA, Combined sales and Combined iLottery sales are measures not recognized under GAAP and do not have a standardized meaning prescribed by GAAP. Therefore, these measures may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other entities. Investors are cautioned that EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA, Combined sales and Combined iLottery sales should not be construed as alternatives to net income or sales as determined in accordance with GAAP as an indicator of Pollard's performance or to cash flows from operating, investing and financing activities as measures of liquidity and cash flows.
Forward-Looking Statements
Certain statements in this report may constitute "forward-looking" statements which involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward looking statements. When used in this document, such statements include such words as "may," "will," "expect," "believe," "plan" and other similar terminology. These statements reflect management's current expectations regarding future events and operating performance and speak only as of the date of this document. There should not be an expectation that such information will in all circumstances be updated, supplemented or revised whether as a result of new information, changing circumstances, future events or otherwise.
POLLARD BANKNOTE LIMITED
Pollard is one of the leading providers of products and solutions to lottery and charitable gaming industries throughout the world. Management believes Pollard is the largest provider of instant tickets based in Canada and the second largest producer of instant tickets in the world. In addition, management believes Pollard is also the second largest bingo paper and pull-tab supplier to the charitable gaming industry in North America and, through its 50% joint venture, the largest supplier of iLottery solutions to the U.S. lottery market.
On January 14, 2021, Pollard completed the acquisition of Next Generation Lotteries AS ("NGL"). On December 31, 2020, Pollard signed a definitive agreement to acquire 100% of the equity of NGL for a purchase price of €36.0 million ($56.5 million), prior to standard working capital adjustments and certain deferred cash considerations, of which €4.0 million ($5.9 million) will be paid upon the achievement of certain gross margin targets in 2021. The purchase price was funded from existing Pollard cash resources and availability under the existing credit facilities, and the issuance of treasury shares of Pollard for approximately €5.2 million ($8.0 million).
Results of Operations – Three months ended June 30, 2022
During the three months ended June 30, 2022, Pollard achieved sales of $115.9 million, compared to $113.4 million in the three months ended June 30, 2021. Factors impacting the $2.5 million sales increase were:
- eGaming systems revenue increased sales by $3.0 million, largely due to a higher number of eGaming machines placed at charitable establishments as compared to 2021.
- The higher average selling price of charitable games in 2022 also increased sales by $2.7 million, as we have been able to pass along inflationary cost increases to our charitable gaming customers.
- Charitable gaming sales volumes were lower in the second quarter of 2022 when compared to the record high pull-tab sales volumes achieved in the second quarter of 2021, decreasing sales by $1.7 million. Despite ongoing similar strong demand in 2022, 2021 sales volumes were boosted by additional sales from pre-existing inventory.
- A higher instant ticket average selling price increased sales by $2.1 million as compared to 2021 due to increased proprietary product sales. This increase was partially offset by a decrease in instant ticket sales volumes in 2022, which decreased sales by $1.3 million.
- Lower sales of ancillary lottery products and services decreased revenue by $3.8 million as compared to 2021. This decline was largely due to decreased sales of licensed products, partially offset by increased sales of digital products.
- Lower sales from Michigan iLottery also decreased revenue in 2022 by $0.7 million as compared to 2021.
- During the three months ended June 30, 2022, Pollard generated approximately 72.4% (2021 – 69.3%) of its revenue in U.S. dollars including a portion of international sales which are priced in U.S. dollars. During the second quarter of 2022, the actual U.S. dollar value was converted to Canadian dollars at $1.269, compared to a rate of $1.226 during the second quarter of 2021. This 3.5% increase in the U.S. dollar value resulted in an approximate increase of $2.8 million in revenue relative to the second quarter of 2021. In addition, during the quarter the value of the Canadian dollar strengthened against the Euro resulting in an approximate decrease of $0.6 million in revenue relative to the second quarter of 2021.
Cost of sales was $94.7 million in the second quarter of 2022 compared to $90.5 million in the second quarter of 2021. The increase of $4.2 million in cost of sales was primarily the result of inflationary pressures on raw material costs, increases in certain manufacturing overhead costs and higher exchange rates on U.S. dollar denominated expenses in 2022. Partially offsetting these increases were decreases in instant ticket and licensed product sales volumes as compared to the second quarter of 2021.
Gross profit was $21.2 million (18.3% of sales) in the second quarter of 2022 compared to $22.9 million (20.2% of sales) in the second quarter of 2021. This decrease of $1.7 million in gross profit was primarily a result of lower instant ticket production volumes, lower instant ticket sales margins, due to a less profitable customer mix and increased manufacturing costs, including the impact of inflation, and lower Michigan iLottery sales as compared to 2021. These decreases were partially offset by the increases in eGaming systems, charitable gaming, and digital product sales as compared to 2021. The lower gross margin percentage was largely due to the impact of inflationary cost increases of instant ticket inputs and lower Michigan iLottery sales, partially offset by increases in eGaming systems, charitable gaming and digital product sales.
Administration expenses were $12.3 million in the second quarter of 2022 and $11.1 million in the second quarter of 2021. Increased compensation and travel related costs incurred in the second quarter of 2022 were partially offset by a reduction in acquisition costs.
Selling expenses increased to $4.5 million in the second quarter of 2022 from $4.2 million in the second quarter of 2021. The increase was primarily due to increased customer contract costs incurred in the second quarter of 2022.
Pollard's share of income from its 50% owned iLottery joint venture, NPi, increased to $5.1 million in the second quarter of 2022 from the $2.5 million achieved in the second quarter of 2021. Contracts held by NPi continued to experience organic growth throughout the second quarter of 2022, increasing NPi's revenue as compared to 2021.
Other expenses were $0.8 million in the second quarter of 2022 compared to $2.0 million of other income achieved in the second quarter of 2021. This change of $2.8 million was primarily due to the reduction in CEWS, as Pollard received $nil in the second quarter of 2022 as compared to $3.2 million received in the second quarter of 2021. Partially offsetting this reduction in other income was the decrease in the contingent consideration fair value adjustment expense, as part of our Compliant acquisition, of $0.4 million as compared to 2021.
The net foreign exchange loss was $2.6 million in the second quarter of 2022 compared to a net foreign exchange gain of $0.7 million in the second quarter of 2021. The 2022 net foreign exchange loss of $2.6 million consisted of an unrealized foreign exchange loss of $2.4 million, primarily a result of the increased Canadian equivalent value of U.S. dollar denominated accounts payable and long-term debt due to the weakening of the Canadian dollar relative to the U.S. dollar. In addition, Pollard incurred a realized foreign exchange loss of $0.2 million, primarily due to foreign currency denominated accounts receivable collected being converted into Canadian dollars at unfavorable foreign exchanges rates.
The 2021 net foreign exchange gain of $0.7 million resulted in part from a $1.6 million unrealized foreign exchange gain, comprised predominately of an unrealized gain on U.S. dollar denominated accounts payable and long-term debt due to the strengthening of the Canadian dollar. This unrealized gain was partially offset by an unrealized loss on U.S. dollar denominated accounts receivable. Partially offsetting this unrealized gain was a $0.9 million realized foreign exchange loss as a result of foreign currency denominated accounts receivable collected being converted into Canadian dollars at unfavorable foreign exchange rates.
Adjusted EBITDA decreased to $18.9 million in the second quarter of 2022 compared to $22.6 million in the second quarter of 2021. The primary reasons for the $3.7 million decrease in Adjusted EBITDA include the reduction in other income (net of contingent consideration) of $3.2 million, largely due to the reduction in CEWS proceeds received as compared to 2021. Also contributing to this decrease is the reduction in gross profit of $1.9 million (net of amortization and depreciation), primarily due to lower instant ticket production volumes, lower instant ticket sales margins, including the impact of inflation, and lower Michigan iLottery sales, partially offset by the increases in eGaming systems, charitable gaming and digital product sales as compared to 2021. The increase in administration costs (net of acquisition costs) of $1.6 million and the increase in selling costs of $0.3 million also decreased Adjusted EBITDA in comparison to 2021. Partially offsetting these decreases to Adjusted EBITDA were an increase in equity investment income of $2.6 million and the lower realized foreign exchange loss of $0.7 million.
Interest expense increased to $2.1 million in the second quarter of 2022 from $1.1 million in the second quarter of 2021, primarily due to the increase in interest accretion on the discounted contingent consideration liability relating to the Compliant purchase of $0.5 million and an increase in interest rates, partially offset by a decrease in average long-term debt outstanding as compared to 2021.
Amortization and depreciation, including depreciation of property and equipment and the amortization of intangible assets, totaled $9.7 million during the second quarter of 2022 which decreased from $9.9 million during the second quarter of 2021. This decrease of $0.2 million was largely due to certain intangibles becoming fully amortized during 2021, which was partially offset by depreciation and amortization taken on newly acquired property, plant and equipment, and intangible assets.
Income tax expense was $1.5 million in the second quarter of 2022, an effective rate of 38.2%, which was higher than our domestic rate of 27.0% due primarily to the changes enacted with regards to the United Kingdom's corporation tax rates and the effect of non-taxable items related to foreign exchange, partially offset by the effect of the lower federal income tax rates in the United States.
Income tax expense was $4.0 million in the second quarter of 2021, an effective rate of 34.2%, higher than our domestic rate of 27.0% due primarily to the tax effect of unrecognized non-capital losses and non-deductible expenses. Partially offsetting these increases in effective rate were the lower federal income tax rates in the United States.
Net income was $2.5 million in the second quarter of 2022 compared to $7.7 million in the second quarter of 2021. The decrease in net income of $5.2 million was due primarily to the increase in other expenses of $2.8 million, largely due to the reduction in CEWS proceeds received as compared to 2021 of $3.2 million, and the increase in net foreign exchange loss of $3.3 million. The decrease in gross profit of $1.7 million also reduced net income as compared to 2021, primarily due to lower instant ticket production volumes, lower instant ticket sales margins, including the impact of inflation, and lower Michigan iLottery sales, but partially offset by the increases in eGaming systems, charitable gaming and digital product sales. Other factors contributing to the decrease in net income were the increase in administration expenses of $1.2 million, the increase in interest expense of $1.0 million and the increase in selling expenses of $0.3 million. Partially offsetting these decreases to net income were the increase in equity investment income of $2.6 million and a decrease in income tax expense of $2.5 million.
Net income per share (basic and diluted) decreased to $0.09 per share in the second quarter of 2022 from $0.29 per share in the second quarter of 2021.
Results of Operations – Six months ended June 30, 2022
During the six months ended June 30, 2022, Pollard achieved sales of $229.8 million, compared to $225.6 million in the six months ended June 30, 2021. Factors impacting the $4.2 million sales increase were:
- Higher eGaming systems revenue increased sales by $6.0 million due primarily to more retail establishments being open for the first two quarters of 2022 as compared to 2021, when a number of jurisdictions had closed retail establishments where eGaming machines are placed due to COVID-19, particularly during the first quarter of 2021. In addition, a higher number of eGaming machines placed at charitable establishments as compared to 2021 further contributed to the increase in eGaming systems sales.
- The higher average selling price of charitable games in the first two quarters of 2022 also increased sales by $5.5 million, as we have been able to pass along inflationary cost increases to our customers.
- Charitable gaming sales volumes were lower in the first two quarters of 2022 when compared to the record high pull-tab sales volumes achieved in the first half of 2021, decreasing sales by $2.5 million. Despite ongoing similar strong demand in 2022, 2021 sales volumes were boosted by additional sales from pre-existing inventory.
- Michigan iLottery sales were lower by $3.2 million as compared to 2021, when Michigan iLottery sales were higher as a result of a double jackpot run in the first quarter of 2021.
- A lower instant ticket average selling price decreased sales by $1.6 million as compared to 2021 due to lower margin customer mix, partially offset by increased proprietary product sales. This decrease was partially offset by an increase in instant ticket sales volumes in 2022, which increased sales by $0.3 million. Lower sales of ancillary lottery products and services decreased revenue by $1.7 million, largely due to decreased sales of licensed products, partially offset by increased sales of digital and loyalty products.
- During the six months ended June 30, 2022, Pollard generated approximately 71.5% (2021 – 69.7%) of its revenue in U.S. dollars including a portion of international sales which are priced in U.S. dollars. During the first six months of 2022 the actual U.S. dollar value was converted to Canadian dollars at $1.269, compared to a rate of $1.249 the first six months of 2021. This 1.6% increase in the U.S. dollar value resulted in an approximate increase of $2.6 million in revenue relative to the first six months of 2021. In addition, during the first six months of 2022, the value of the Canadian dollar strengthened against the Euro resulting in an approximate decrease of $1.2 million in revenue relative to the first six months of 2021.
Cost of sales was $186.6 million in the six months ended June 30, 2022, compared to $177.9 million in the six months ended June 30, 2021. This increase of $8.7 million was primarily a result of inflationary pressures on raw material costs, increases in certain manufacturing overhead costs and higher exchange rates on U.S. dollar denominated expenses in 2022. Partially offsetting these increases were decreases in ancillary lottery products and services sales, and charitable gaming sales volumes as compared to 2021.
Gross profit decreased to $43.2 million (18.8% of sales) in the six months ended June 30, 2022, from $47.7 million (21.1% of sales) in the six months ended June 30, 2021. This decrease in gross profit of $4.5 million was primarily the result of lower instant ticket sales margins, due to a less profitable customer mix, lower Michigan iLottery sales and increased manufacturing costs, including the impact of inflation, as compared to 2021. This decrease was partially offset by increases in eGaming systems, charitable gaming and digital product sales, which increased gross profit as compared to 2021. The lower gross margin percentage was largely due to the change in the mix of instant tickets sales to lower margin customers, lower Michigan iLottery sales and the impact of inflationary cost increases, partially offset by increases in eGaming systems, charitable gaming and digital product gross margins as compared to 2021.
Administration expenses increased to $24.3 million in the first six months of 2022 from $23.2 million in the first six months of 2021. The increase of $1.1 million was primarily a result of increased compensation, professional fees and travel related costs, partially offset by a reduction in acquisition costs.
Selling expenses increased to $9.0 million in the first six months of 2022 from $8.1 million in the first six months of 2021. The increase was primarily due to increased customer contract costs and higher compensation expenses.
Pollard's share of income from NPi increased to $9.0 million in the first six months of 2022 from $6.5 million in 2021. This $2.5 million increase was primarily due to increased organic growth achieved on contracts held by NPi throughout the first two quarters of 2022, increasing NPi's revenue as compared to 2021.
Other expenses were $0.8 million in the first six months of 2022 compared to $1.5 million of other income in 2021. This change of $2.3 million was partially due to Pollard receiving $nil CEWS in 2022 compared to $5.2 million received in 2021. However, in 2021, other income was partially offset by Pollard entering into an agreement for a one-time payment of $2.5 million to settle all aspects of certain litigation regarding a patent dispute relating to our instant ticket production. In addition, contingent consideration fair value adjustment expenses, as part of our Compliant acquisition, decreased by $0.2 million compared to 2021.
The net foreign exchange loss was $2.2 million in the first six months of 2022 compared to a net foreign exchange gain of $0.2 million in the first six months of 2021. The 2022 net foreign exchange loss of $2.2 million resulted from a net unrealized foreign exchange loss of $1.7 million, comprised predominately of an unrealized loss on U.S. dollar denominated accounts payable and long-term debt due to the weakening of the Canadian dollar. In addition, Pollard experienced a realized foreign exchange loss of $0.5 million as a result of foreign currency denominated accounts receivable collected being converted into Canadian dollars at unfavorable foreign exchange rates.
The 2021 net foreign exchange gain of $0.2 million resulted from a net unrealized foreign exchange gain of $2.5 million, comprised predominately of an unrealized gain on U.S. dollar denominated accounts payable and long-term debt due to the strengthening of the Canadian dollar. Partially offsetting the unrealized gain was a $2.3 million realized foreign exchange loss as a result of foreign currency denominated accounts receivable collected being converted into Canadian dollars at unfavorable foreign exchange rates.
Adjusted EBITDA decreased to $37.9 million in the first six months of 2022 compared to $45.9 million in the first six months of 2021. The primary reasons for the decrease of $8.0 million include the decrease in gross profit (net of amortization and depreciation) of $4.3 million, primarily the result of lower instant ticket sales margins, due to a less profitable customer mix, increased manufacturing costs, including the impact of inflation, and lower Michigan iLottery sales, partially offset by increases in eGaming systems, charitable gaming and digital product sales as compared to 2021. Other factors contributing to the decrease in Adjusted EBITDA include the reduction in other income (net of contingent consideration and litigation settlement) of $5.1 million, primarily due to the reduction in CEWS received of $5.2 million, higher administration expenses (net of acquisition costs) of $2.1 million and higher selling expenses of $0.9 million. These decreases were partially offset by the increase in equity investment income of $2.5 million and the reduction in realized foreign exchange loss of $1.9 million.
Interest expense increased to $3.9 million in the first six months of 2022 from $2.2 million in the first six months of 2021, primarily as a result of the increase in interest accretion on the discounted contingent consideration liability relating to the Compliant purchase of $1.3 million. Higher interest rates in 2022 also contributed to the increase in interest expense, partially offset by a decrease in average long-term debt outstanding as compared to 2021.
Amortization and depreciation, including amortization of intangible assets and depreciation of property and equipment, totaled $19.4 million during the first six months of 2022 which increased from $19.2 million during the first six months of 2021. The increase of $0.2 million was primarily as a result of amortization and depreciation taken on newly acquired property, plant and equipment, and intangible assets, partially offset by the reduction in amortization expense due to certain intangibles becoming fully amortized during 2021.
Income tax expense was $3.1 million in the first six months of 2022, an effective rate of 26.0%, which was lower than our domestic rate of 27.0% due primarily to the effect of the lower federal income tax rates in the United States, partially offset by changes enacted with regards to the United Kingdom's corporation tax rates and the effect of non-taxable items related to foreign exchange.
Income tax expense was $7.3 million in the first six months of 2021, an effective rate of 32.4%, which was higher than our domestic rate of 27.0% due primarily to the tax effect of unrecognized non-capital losses and non-deductible expenses. Partially offsetting these increases in effective rate were the lower federal income tax rates in the United States.
Net income decreased to $8.9 million in the first six months of 2022 from $15.1 million in the first six months of 2021. The primary reasons for the decrease of $6.2 million include the decrease in gross profit of $4.5 million, primarily the result of lower Michigan iLottery sales and lower instant ticket sales margins, due to a less profitable customer mix and increased manufacturing costs, including the impact of inflation, as compared to 2021. This decrease in gross profit was partially offset by increases in eGaming systems, charitable gaming and digital product sales as compared to 2021. Other factors contributing to the decrease in net income include the increase in administration expenses of $1.1 million, the increase in selling expenses of $0.9 million, the increase in other expenses of $2.3 million, the increase in interest expense of $1.7 million and the increase in net foreign exchange loss of $2.4 million. Partially offsetting these decreases were the increase in equity investment income of $2.5 million and the decrease in income tax expense of $4.2 million.
Net income per share (basic and diluted) decreased to $0.33 per share in the six months ending June 30, 2022, as compared to $0.56 per share in the six months ending June 30, 2021.
iLottery
Pollard and its iLottery partner, Neogames US LLP ("Neogames"), provide iLottery services to the North American Lottery market. In 2013, Pollard was awarded an iLottery contract from the Michigan Lottery. As a result, Pollard entered into a contract with Neogames to provide its technology in return for a 50% financial interest in the operation. Under IFRS, Pollard recognizes its 50% share in the Michigan Lottery contract in its consolidated statements of income in revenue and cost of sales.
In 2014 Pollard, in conjunction with Neogames, established NeoPollard Interactive LLC ("NPi"). All iLottery related customer contracts, excluding the Michigan Lottery iLottery contract, have been awarded to NPi. Under IFRS, Pollard accounts for its investment in its joint venture, NPi, as an equity investment. Under the equity method of accounting, Pollard recognizes its share of the income and expenses of NPi separately as equity investment income.
Beginning in the second quarter of 2020, with the onset of COVID-19, revenues from Pollard's contract with the Michigan Lottery increased substantially. Contracts held by NPi also experienced significant organic growth, in addition to the sales increase from the Virginia Lottery operation which added e-Instants on July 1, 2020. As well, NPi's contract with Alberta Gaming, Liquor & Cannabis ("AGLC"), went live with a limited product launch on September 30, 2020, with additional gaming verticals launching throughout 2021. The substantial jackpots for POWERBALL® and Mega Millions® awarded in the latter half of January 2021 further increased sales significantly in the fourth quarter of 2020 and the first quarter of 2021.
Sales and income before income taxes from our Michigan iLottery operation declined starting in the second quarter of 2021 due to reduced draw-based game sales after the double jackpots in the first quarter of 2021, increased online gaming competition and new pricing coming into effect with our four-year contract extension, starting at the beginning of 2021. In 2022, NPi continues to achieve strong organic growth, adding to sales and income before taxes.
Outlook
Overall demand for our main products and solutions is strong and we expect this to continue. Consumer demand for charitable gaming, eGaming systems and instant ticket products sold at retail have remained high throughout 2022. While the growth in instant ticket retail sales volumes have steadied after significant increases experienced during the pandemic, sales remain at the high levels attained throughout the first quarter of 2022. This retail demand has translated into significant orders from lotteries.
Our iLottery business is showing strong organic growth, both sequentially and in comparison to historic quarters, and we anticipate this will continue going forward. Michigan iLottery has demonstrated resilient incremental growth over the last four quarters despite the competitive environment with private iGaming operations. All of our contracts within NPi have also shown strong organic growth and we expect this to carry on.
Our current instant ticket production schedule reflects significant order volumes; however, challenges in the second quarter negatively impacted our production. We have initiated a number of actions to mitigate these challenges. As a result, we anticipate improved production volumes in future quarters, capitalizing on this order volume which will lead to higher sales volumes.
Inflationary increases, particularly as it relates to key instant ticket inputs, will continue to be a challenge. A significant portion of these cost increases have been implemented already in the first and second quarters of 2022; however, their full impact is still being absorbed in our results. We are working diligently on a number of strategies to offset these increases, including investigating potential alternate sources for key inputs, increasing production output, expanding capacity and most important among these, bidding at higher selling prices on contract extensions and RFP's as they come available. We will continue to pursue this higher selling price strategy and are so far very encouraged at the acceptance by the market of this strategy in a number of jurisdictions. Higher selling prices are a critical component of recovering these significant cost increases and achieving appropriate gross margins.
Helping to mitigate margin pressure, our charitable and eGaming businesses are expected to produce strong financial results, due to high levels of consumer demand and our ability to pass along cost increases.
We continue to make great strides with investing in our business through increasing our resources, expanding our product portfolio and investing in the technological solutions our lottery and charitable gaming customers require. We remain very excited about the strength of demand for our products and solutions, and are confident our strategies will allow us to improve our instant ticket margins. This, combined with strong results in many other areas of our business, will allow us to return to levels of profitability reflective of the value of our company.
"We were also disappointed in oOur second quarter instant ticket production volume, as it fell short of our budget by approximately 8-10% and was lower than our record production volume achieved in the first quarter of this year. A number of factors negatively impacted our production volume including: continuing challenges recruiting and retaining entry level staff, increased staffing challenges with a higher number of call-outs and absences impacting efficiency, a higher number of unexpected mechanical and production issues, and greater complexity of work as we start into our specialty season. Our sales volumes were also lower than budget reflecting the lower production volume, further negatively impacting our margins."
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SOURCE Pollard Banknote Limited | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/08/10/pollard-banknote-reports-2nd-quarter-financial-results-reappointment-independent-director/ | 2022-08-10T21:01:50Z |
CEDARHURST, N.Y. , June 15, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The securities litigation law firm of Kuznicki Law PLLC issues this alert to shareholders of Innovative Industrial Properties, Inc. (NYSE: IIPR, IIPR-PA), if they purchased the Company's securities between May 7, 2020 and April 13, 2022, inclusive (the "Class Period"). Shareholders have until June 24, 2022 to file lead plaintiff applications in the securities class action lawsuit.
Shareholders are encouraged to contact us at https://kclasslaw.com/cases/securities/nyse-iipr/ by calling toll-free at 1-833-835-1495 or by email (dk@kclasslaw.com).
Kuznicki Law PLLC 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:
Kuznicki Law PLLC
Daniel Kuznicki, Esq.
445 Central Avenue, Suite 344
Cedarhurst, NY 11516
Email: dk@kclasslaw.com
Phone: (347) 696-1134
Cell: (347) 690-0692
Fax: (347) 348-0967
https://kclasslaw.com
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SOURCE Kuznicki Law PLLC | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/06/16/filing-deadline-kuznicki-law-pllc-announces-class-action-behalf-shareholders-innovative-industrial-properties-inc-iipr-iipr-pa/ | 2022-06-16T04:23:05Z |
Titans have No. 26 pick overall to give Tannehill more help
By TERESA M. WALKER
AP Pro Football Writer
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Ryan Tannehill has been the easy scapegoat for fans angry that the Tennessee Titans’ Super Bowl hopes ended in the divisional round. Coach Mike Vrabel made clear after the loss by AFC’s No. 1 seed that the Titans must help Tannehill by being “excellent” around their quarterback. Tennessee general manager Jon Robinson has tried to give Tannehill more offensive playmakers, signing tight end Austin Hooper and trading for wide receiver Robert Woods in free agency. Now he has the No. 26 pick overall along with six other selections in the upcoming NFL draft to add more talent to chase a third AFC South title. | https://localnews8.com/sports/ap-national-sports/2022/04/22/titans-have-no-26-pick-overall-to-give-tannehill-more-help/ | 2022-04-22T21:17:57Z |
RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, Aug. 5, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has officially announced its intention to bid for the 2026 AFC Women's Asian Cup.
This is a landmark moment for women's football in Saudi Arabia and Asia.
The bid builds on many recent developments to grow women's football in Saudi Arabia:
- Saudi Arabia Football Federation (SAFF) Women's Football Department was established in 2019.
- The Kingdom's first women's Regional League was launched in November 2021, followed by a National Championship in January 2022.
- The Women's National Football Team was established in 2021 and played its first official international friendly match in February 2022 in a tournament in the Maldives.
- The Women's Futsal National Football Team was established in 2019 and has participated in three competitions since.
- In 2022, the Kingdom hosted the 3rd West Asian Football Federation Women's Futsal Championship.
- Saudi Arabia established the 1st Football Regional Center for female players U17.
- 40 D License Coaching Courses have been delivered in schools around the Kingdom, awarding 857 teachers coaching certificates. In addition to 15 Referee Courses, 544 teachers were qualified as referees, all in preparation to launch The Girls Schools League in September 2022.
- There are 100+ C Licensed Coaches in the Kingdom.
- 1st AFC B License Coaching Course concluded in February 2022.
- There are two international coexisting coaching programs for female coaches, both held in Spain.
- There are online educational workshops in cooperation with the Spanish and Brazilian Football Federations.
- Qualification courses have been established for new female referees, with 63 referees approved under SAFF.
- The first female Saudi referee will participate in the 4th AFC Referees Academy course.
Growing the grassroots of women's football will be central to the bid. Inspiring women's football across Asia will be built into a Saudi-hosted 2026 competition. From players to coaches and fans to officials, Saudi Arabia is committed to developing and growing women's football to take the game to the next level.
Lamia bin Bahian, Board Member of the Saudi Arabian Football Federation, said: "We have huge ambitions for the development of the women's game in Saudi Arabia, and the recent progress has been incredible. We really are entering a new and exciting era for women's football."
Monika Staab, manager of the Saudi Arabian women's national team, said: "Saudi Arabia has embraced women's football. When I speak to girls across the Kingdom, I see their excitement for the game. The 2026 AFC Women's Asian Cup is an unprecedented opportunity to inspire a generation of girls to achieve their football dreams."
Yasser Almisehal, President of SAFF, said: "The future of women's football in Saudi Arabia is bright, and we are committed to growing the game here and throughout Asia. More and more young girls are playing football in this country, and we want to inspire them further. Hosting the AFC Women's Asian Cup 2026 would be a great occasion for our players and would be made memorable by the passion of our fans."
There has recently been a huge increase in the profile of the women's game:
- More than 1.2 billion viewers watched the 2019 Women's World Cup.
- The 2022 AFC Women's Asian Cup was held in India, with the People's Republic of China emerging as champions with a 3-2 victory over the Republic of Korea in the final, securing a record ninth title.
- More than four goals were scored per game in the 2022 AFC Women's Asian Cup: the highest in any major international football tournament in the past 50 years.
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SOURCE Ministry of Sport - Saudi Arabia | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/08/05/saudi-arabia-bid-2026-afc-womens-asian-cup/ | 2022-08-05T08:24:00Z |
‘It gives a whole other perspective to art’: 12-year-old helps build ‘Stranger Things’ field mural
ST. JOSEPH COUNTY, Ind. (WNDU/Gray News) - A field artist has fans of the hit Netflix show “Stranger Things” on the edge of their seats over his latest crop creation.
But as Stan Herd says, it could not have come without the help of a 12-year-old girl.
“The coolest part about it is we bring local talent in,” Herd said.
Today, the face of one of the show’s cast members sits on a top secret cornfield in St. Joseph County, Indiana.
Herd told WNDU he couldn’t reveal the exact location of the mural because it could potentially draw thousands of fans to the town, and they couldn’t handle that.
The field art that has millions of fans on their feet is a mural depicting one of Season 4′s heroes, Eddie Munson.
“The setup of the show is in this state, so when they mentioned Indiana, I said South Bend because I know people here, or at least I know all the good restaurants to go to,” Herd said.
While it took 10 days to create, it could not have been done without the help from Herd’s team, including his son Evan Herd and art director Kyra Roesle.
“My job is to come out here and to assess the colors, the formations, what kind of materials we need, and how we are going to do it,” Roesle said.
Though, not to be forgotten is 12-year-old Maci Schultz, who Roesle said volunteered dozens of hours to help create the mural that has many on the edge of their seats.
“We got locals like Maci coming out, 12 years old and she works harder than any other boys that were out here and she is kicking butt,” Roesle said. “But what is cool is learning about her, you know.”
For Schultz, she said she is just thankful to be a part of something so unique, special yet strange just like her favorite Netflix show.
“Honestly, it feels amazing like knowing these people. I never knew this was a thing, and now I know it gives a whole other perspective to art,” Maci said.
Seeing the finished product has always been Herd’s favorite part of crop art, but he said seeing locals like Maci flourish in the field is the most rewarding.
“It’s really fun to get local people to come out and kind of connect with the community in that way and they’re a part of the larger story as it unfolds,” Herd said. “We hope they get their agent and move on to Hollywood.”
Copyright 2022 WNDU via Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved. | https://www.mysuncoast.com/2022/07/18/it-gives-whole-other-perspective-art-12-year-old-helps-build-stranger-things-field-mural/ | 2022-07-18T21:15:31Z |
MORTON GROVE, Ill., July 29, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Lifeway Foods, Inc. (Nasdaq: LWAY) ("Lifeway" or the "Company"), a leading U.S. supplier of kefir and fermented probiotic products to support the microbiome, today announced that it has entered into an agreement (the "Agreement") with Edward and Ludmila Smolyansky. The Agreement ensures stability on Lifeway's board of directors and positions the Company to continue to execute on its strategic plan.
Pursuant to the Agreement, Lifeway's board will nominate the following individuals for election at Lifeway's upcoming annual meeting, which is expected to be held on August 31, 2022: Juan Carlos Dalto, Jodi Levy, Dorri McWhorter, Perfecto Sanchez, Jason Scher, Pol Sikar, Julie Smolyansky and Ludmila Smolyansky.
"Lifeway has been a pioneering force in the natural foods world for more than 35 years; we are proud of our history and excited for our future," said Julie Smolyansky, President and CEO of Lifeway. "I'm energized by the new members that we plan to welcome to the Board. They are an incredible group of individuals whose skill sets and purpose-driven principles sync up perfectly with the Lifeway mission. We have an amazing team, and we're poised to deliver value to our shareholders, great products to our customers and exceptional company culture to our employees."
As part of the Agreement, the Audit and Corporate Governance Committee of the Lifeway board will oversee a review of strategic alternatives for the Company.
Edward and Ludmila Smolyansky have agreed to withdraw their director nominations previously submitted to the Company and vote all of their shares in favor of Lifeway's nominees at the annual meeting. In addition, they have entered into other customary standstill and voting commitments. The full Agreement will be filed by the Company with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission as an exhibit to the Current Report on Form 8-K.
About Lifeway Foods, Inc.
Lifeway Foods, Inc., which has been recognized as one of Forbes' Best Small Companies, is America's leading supplier of the probiotic, fermented beverage known as kefir. In addition to its line of drinkable kefir, the company also produces cheese, probiotic oat milk, and a ProBugs line for kids. Lifeway's tart and tangy fermented dairy products are now sold across the United States, Mexico, Ireland, France and the United Kingdom. Learn how Lifeway is good for more than just you at lifewayfoods.com.
Forward-Looking Statements
This release (and oral statements made regarding the subjects of this release) contains "forward-looking statements" as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 regarding, among other things, future operating and financial performance, product development, market position, business strategy and objectives. These statements use words, and variations of words, such as "continue," "build," "future," "increase," "drive," "believe," "look," "ahead," "confident," "deliver," "outlook," "expect," and "predict." Other examples of forward looking statements may include, but are not limited to, (i) statements of Company plans and objectives, including the introduction of new products, or estimates or predictions of actions by customers or suppliers, (ii) statements of future economic performance, and (III) statements of assumptions underlying other statements and statements about Lifeway or its business. You are cautioned not to rely on these forward-looking statements. These statements are based on current expectations of future events and thus are inherently subject to uncertainty. If underlying assumptions prove inaccurate or known or unknown risks or uncertainties materialize, actual results could vary materially from Lifeway's expectations and projections. These risks, uncertainties, and other factors include: price competition; the decisions of customers or consumers; the actions of competitors; changes in the pricing of commodities; the effects of government regulation; possible delays in the introduction of new products; and customer acceptance of products and services. A further list and description of these risks, uncertainties, and other factors can be found in Lifeway's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2021, and the Company's subsequent filings with the SEC. Copies of these filings are available online at https://www.sec.gov, http://lifewaykefir.com/investor-relations/, or on request from Lifeway. Information in this release is as of the dates and time periods indicated herein, and Lifeway does not undertake to update any of the information contained in these materials, except as required by law. Accordingly, YOU SHOULD NOT RELY ON THE ACCURACY OF ANY OF THE STATEMENTS OR OTHER INFORMATION CONTAINED IN ANY ARCHIVED PRESS RELEASE.
For media inquiries:
Derek Miller
Vice President of Communications, Lifeway Foods
Email: derekm@lifeway.net
For general Lifeway Foods inquiries:
info@lifeway.net
Phone: 847-967-1010
Investor Contact:
Ed Greene
Phone: 212-805-7303
Email: egreene@georgeson.com
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SOURCE Lifeway Foods, Inc. | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/07/29/lifeway-foods-announces-agreement-with-edward-ludmila-smolyansky/ | 2022-07-29T15:57:22Z |
ANN ARBOR, Mich. , June 30, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Xoran Technologies announced the company's recent submission of an FDA 510(k) application for TRON™, an open-bore fluoroscopy computed tomography (CT) for full-body point-of-care imaging. The potential new addition to Xoran's suite of imaging systems offers potential benefits which include reduced transport risks to patients, improved accessibility to patient CT scans in limited spaces, and improved throughput for radiology departments.
With over 20 patents, this FDA 510(k) submission builds on the company's continued research and development efforts for lung computed tomography (CT) imaging. Those research efforts have shown marked capability in point-of-care CT solutions for the neuro intensive care unit (NICU), the operating room, and satellite stations. The compact, mobile design and engineering of TRON for medical imaging marks a milestone towards optimizing a highly deployable CT scanner, and a point-of-care solution for patients beyond the designated confines of a limited space.
"This addition solidifies our commitment to improving patient accessibility to imaging at the point of care. The benefits of truly mobile compact devices cannot be underscored, and now by engineering the success of our head CT systems into an open-bore system, we are able to drive a new generation of Xoran's point-of-care (POC) imaging devices," said Misha Rakic, Xoran CEO.
About Xoran Technologies
Since 2001, Xoran is the pioneer and medical market leader in low-dose radiation, cone beam CT systems specifically designed for the patient's point-of-care. Providers around the world rely on our industry-leading MiniCAT™, xCAT™, and veterinary CT systems: VetCAT and vTRON, to diagnose and treat patients.
Xoran is based in Ann Arbor, Michigan.
For more information visit www.xorantech.com
© 2022 Xoran Technologies, LLC
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SOURCE Xoran Technologies, LLC | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/06/30/xoran-technologies-submits-fda-510k-application-tron/ | 2022-06-30T15:51:04Z |
NEW YORK, June 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ --
WHY: Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, reminds purchasers of the securities of HUMBL, LLC (OTC: HMBL) and/or the Company's unregistered digital asset (sold as BLOCKS Exchange Traded Index ("ETXs") on various cryptocurrency exchanges) between November 1, 2020 and May 19, 2022, both dates inclusive (the "Class Period") of the important July 19, 2022 lead plaintiff deadline.
SO WHAT: If you purchased Humbl securities and/or the Company's ETXs during the Class Period you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out of pocket fees or costs through a contingency fee arrangement.
WHAT TO DO NEXT: To join the Humbl class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=6398 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email pkim@rosenlegal.com or cases@rosenlegal.com for information on the class action. A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than July 19, 2022. A lead plaintiff is a representative party acting on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation.
WHY ROSEN LAW: We encourage investors to select qualified counsel with a track record of success in leadership roles. Often, firms issuing notices do not have comparable experience, resources or any meaningful peer recognition. Many of these firms do not actually handle securities class actions, but are merely middlemen that refer clients or partner with law firms that actually litigate the cases. Be wise in selecting counsel. The Rosen Law Firm represents investors throughout the globe, concentrating its practice in securities class actions and shareholder derivative litigation. Rosen Law Firm has achieved the largest ever securities class action settlement against a Chinese Company. Rosen Law Firm was Ranked No. 1 by ISS Securities Class Action Services for number of securities class action settlements in 2017. The firm has been ranked in the top 4 each year since 2013 and has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors. In 2019 alone the firm secured over $438 million for investors. In 2020, founding partner Laurence Rosen was named by law360 as a Titan of Plaintiffs' Bar. Many of the firm's attorneys have been recognized by Lawdragon and Super Lawyers.
DETAILS OF THE CASE: According to the lawsuit, defendants violated provisions of the Exchange Act by making false and misleading statements concerning the Company's growth prospects, technological advancements, international partnerships, and financial benefits for Humbl common stock and digital asset investors, as well as using selectively timed announcements to keep Humbl stock price high so that Company insiders could sell off their holdings into artificially created volume. The complaint also alleges that defendants violated provisions of the Securities Act by selling its unregistered securities (BLOCK ETX digital assets) to investors.
To join the Humbl class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=6398 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email pkim@rosenlegal.com or cases@rosenlegal.com for information on the class action.
No Class Has Been Certified. Until a class is certified, you are not represented by counsel unless you retain one. You may select counsel of your choice. You may also remain an absent class member and do nothing at this point. An investor's ability to share in any potential future recovery is not dependent upon serving as lead plaintiff.
Follow us for updates on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-rosen-law-firm, on Twitter: https://twitter.com/rosen_firm or on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rosenlawfirm/.
Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Information:
Laurence Rosen, Esq.
Phillip Kim, Esq.
The Rosen Law Firm, P.A.
275 Madison Avenue, 40th Floor
New York, NY 10016
Tel: (212) 686-1060
Toll Free: (866) 767-3653
Fax: (212) 202-3827
lrosen@rosenlegal.com
pkim@rosenlegal.com
cases@rosenlegal.com
www.rosenlegal.com
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SOURCE Rosen Law Firm, P.A. | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/06/03/rosen-leading-law-firm-encourages-humbl-llc-investors-secure-counsel-before-important-deadline-securities-class-action-hmbl/ | 2022-06-03T19:56:52Z |
(KTLA) – A producer and writer on television shows including “Scrubs” and “Californication” has been arrested in Los Angeles in connection with “several sexual assaults including rape,” according to the Los Angeles Police Department.
Eric Weinberg was arrested around noon on Thursday at a home in the Los Feliz neighborhood, the LAPD said in a press release.
According to police, Weinberg committed a series of sexual assaults between 2012 and 2019, targeting “women in grocery stores, coffee shops, and other public places.”
“Weinberg would approach the women who were in their 20-30s, under the guise of being a photographer and would set up photo shoots with them. Once the women were in his residence, he would sexually assault them during the photo shoot,” the release said.
Weinberg’s IMDB page identifies him as a co-executive producer or supervising producer on more than 100 episodes of “Scrubs” and a co-executive producer on 11 episodes of “Californication,” among other projects.
Weinberg is being held in lieu of $3.225 million, police said.
As of Thursday afternoon, Weinberg did not yet appear in a search of jail records.
Police believe there could be other victims dating back to the 1990s. Anyone with information is asked to contact detectives at 323-561-3272 or 39284@lapd.online. | https://cw33.com/news/nexstar-media-wire/scrubs-producer-arrested-accused-of-sexually-assaulting-women-during-photo-shoots/ | 2022-07-15T01:39:51Z |
MIDDLETOWN, Md., April 25, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Community Heritage Financial, Inc. ("the Company") (OTC PK: CMHF), the parent company of Middletown Valley Bank ("MVB" or the "Bank"), announced today that for the three months ended March 31, 2022 the Company earned net income of $1.82 million or $0.81 per share, an increase of $212 thousand or 13.1% compared to net income of $1.61 million or $0.71 per share for the three months ended March 31, 2021. First quarter 2022 net income increased $564 thousand or 44.8% compared to fourth quarter 2021 net income of $1.26 million or $0.56 per share.
The Company experienced another strong quarter of balance sheet growth driven by core deposit growth of $33.5 million and core (excludes Paycheck Protection Program ("PPP") loans) loan growth of $43.1 million. Total PPP loan balances were $3.6 million at March 31, 2022, down from $13.3 million at December 31, 2021, with $9.7 million of such loans forgiven during the first quarter. As a result of strong core loan growth for the past two quarters and shifting excess cash to higher-yielding assets, interest income for the quarter increased $293 thousand compared to the fourth quarter of 2021. While total deposits grew by $33.5 million, interest expense decreased by $64 thousand on a quarter-over-quarter basis, resulting in an overall increase of $357 thousand in net interest income. The provision for loan losses for the first quarter of 2022 totaled $10 thousand, a decrease of $416 thousand from $426 thousand for the fourth quarter of 2021. The decreased provision resulted from lower unemployment rates and improved loan loss history, both of which are key metrics used in the loan loss reserve calculation. Improved margin income, lower provision expense and stable operating expenses were the main contributors to the increase in net income from $1.26 million in the fourth quarter of 2021 to $1.82 million in the first quarter of 2022.
To further create operational efficiencies and better utilize the capital and funding capabilities of the Company for current and future growth, effective March 1, 2022, Millennium Financial Group, Inc., formerly a subsidiary of the Company, became a wholly-owned subsidiary of MVB.
Subsequent Events:
Management and the Board of Directors of both the Company and the Bank recognize the impact that inflation, recent geopolitical events, and supply chain issues are having on economic markets and interest rates. With the recent rapid increase in interest rates, the banking industry has been hit hard with erosion to security portfolio values, which has resulted in a direct impact to tangible equity values on the balance sheet as related to our available-for-sale ("AFS") security portfolio. In an effort to preserve tangible common equity, the MVB Board of Directors approved for up to 75% of the principal balance of the AFS security portfolio at the Bank be moved to a held-to-maturity ("HTM") designation effective April 1, 2022. To maintain on-balance sheet liquidity, over the next several quarters we expect management to take measures to build the AFS portfolio position back to a level of at least 7.0% of assets. We anticipate that this will be accomplished through the reinvestment of security portfolio cashflows and strategic investment of available cash balances at current market rates.
Quarterly Highlights – 1Q22 vs 4Q21
- Tangible book value per share decreased by $2.62 or 10.7% to $21.94 per share at March 31, 2022 from $24.56 at December 31, 2021. The tangible book value decrease is due to an increase in the accumulated other comprehensive loss of $8.55 million at March 31, 2022 from $893 thousand at December 31, 2021.
- Cash balances decreased on a linked-quarter basis by 15.9% or $6.6 million. Deposit growth in the first quarter totaled $33.5 million. The Bank utilized the new deposit funds to fund the strong core loan growth of $43.1 million and to purchase $12.9 million in security investments.
- The Bank also continued to strengthen off-balance sheet contingency funding sources (Federal Home Loan Bank and Federal Reserve Bank discount window borrowing capacity), keeping the overall contingency funding position strong at approximately 54.1% of total funding at the Bank level at March 31, 2022.
- Gross loans increased by $33.4 million or 5.5% during the quarter ended March 31, 2022. A net decrease in PPP loans of $9.7 million during the quarter resulted in core loan growth of $43.1 million. PPP forgiveness during the first quarter generated interest and fee income of $320 thousand compared to $254 thousand for the fourth quarter of 2021. At March 31, 2022, the Bank has $92 thousand in remaining unamortized PPP fee income on the remaining $3.6 million in PPP principal balances.
- Overall deposits grew $33.5 million, or 4.6%, during the first quarter of 2022. Non-interest-bearing deposits grew $15.2 million and interest-bearing deposits grew $18.3 million. The interest-bearing deposit growth was mainly in low-cost money market deposits of $8.9 million and savings accounts of $5.3 million. The Bank's cost of interest-bearing deposits for the first quarter compared to the fourth quarter of 2021 decreased 7 basis points to 0.28%.
- The Bank's net interest margin increased 15 basis points to 3.35% in the first quarter of 2022 from 3.20% in the fourth quarter of 2021.
- Based on loan growth and current economic metrics used in the calculation, the reserve to total loans ratio was 1.01% at March 31, 2022, down 0.08% from 1.09% at December 31, 2021. The decrease in the reserve to total loans coincides with the reduction in the provision for loan losses by $416 thousand to $10 thousand for the first quarter of 2022 from $426 thousand for the fourth quarter of 2021.
Quarterly Highlights – 1Q22 vs 1Q21
- Tangible book value per share of $21.94 at March 31, 2022 decreased by $0.96 or 4.2% from $22.90 at March 31, 2021. The tangible book value decrease is due to an increase in the accumulated other comprehensive loss of $8.55 million at March 31, 2022 from $482 thousand at March 31, 2021.
- Quarter-over-quarter net loan growth was $60.5 million or 10.5%, which includes a decrease of $53.1 million in PPP loans.
- Excluding PPP loans, gross core loan growth was $111.2 million or 21% quarter-over-quarter. PPP forgiveness generated interest and fee income of $320 thousand during the first quarter of 2022 compared to $961 thousand during the first quarter of 2021.
- Deposits grew $135.8 million or 21.4% during the 12 months ended March 31, 2022. Excluding brokered deposits of $276 thousand and $1.7 million at March 31, 2022 and March 31, 2021, respectively, core deposits increased $137.2 million or 21.7% at March 31, 2022 compared to March 31, 2021. The majority of the core growth was in demand deposits ($58.6 million), low-cost money market deposits ($45.7 million), savings deposits ($14.2 million) and NOW accounts ($3.0 million).
- For the three months ended March 31, 2022, the Bank's overall cost of funds decreased to 0.19% from 0.32% for the three months ended March 31, 2021. This decrease resulted from the further rate reductions on numerous deposit account types due to historically low interest rates.
- The loan loss provision for the quarter ended March 31, 2022 was $10 thousand compared to $1.5 million for the quarter ended March 31, 2021. This decrease is mainly due to the decrease in the unemployment and loan loss economic factors used in the reserve calculation.
- Non-interest income for the quarter ended March 31, 2022 decreased by $864 thousand or 41.6% compared to the quarter ended March 31, 2021. The mortgage activity and secondary sales income decrease of $670 thousand, along with the security sale gains decrease of $196 thousand, accounted for the majority of the decrease.
- Non-interest expense during the quarter ended March 31, 2022 increased by $711 thousand compared to the quarter ended March 31, 2021. The increase is directly related to the growth of the balance sheet (18%) as staffing has increased to support such growth. Salary and benefits expense during the first quarter of 2022 increased 14.3% and the opening of a new branch in Franklin County, PA to expand our market area resulted in a 13.6% increase in occupancy and equipment expense compared to the first quarter of last year.
Dividend
A dividend of $0.04 per share was declared by the Board of Directors on April 15, 2022 for stockholders of record as of April 29, 2022 and payable on May 6, 2022.
Community Heritage Financial, Inc.
Robert E. (BJ) Goetz, Jr.
President & Chief Executive Officer
301-371-3055
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SOURCE Community Heritage Financial, Inc. | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/04/25/community-heritage-financial-inc-reports-earnings-first-quarter-2022/ | 2022-04-25T22:48:28Z |
- Trigall Genetics to potentially own a majority position in newly created Australian company, Trigall Australia, which would include the wheat breeding activity of S&W to further develop performant varieties for Australian farmers.
- Trigall Australia is expected to benefit from S&W´s existing footprint – including varieties, sales and marketing, Florimond Desprez's worldwide breeding expertise and Bioceres Crop Solutions´ drought-tolerance HB4® EcoWheat® technologies.
ADELAIDE, Australia and MONTEVIDEO, Uruguay and ROSARIO, Argentina and LONGMONT, Colorado, May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Trigall Genetics, the world leader in transgenic wheat, and S&W Seed Company (Nasdaq: SANW), a leading middle-market agricultural company, have entered preliminary, nonbinding discussions to potentially combine wheat operations through the creation of Trigall Australia, a wheat breeding company. The combination would harness S&W's Australian footprint and the capabilities of both Bioceres Crop Solutions (Nasdaq: BIOX) and Florimond Desprez, co-owners of Trigall Genetics.
Trigall Genetics is the world leader in transgenic wheat thanks to the development of its drought-tolerance HB4® EcoWheat® technology and a leader in conventional wheat breeding in Argentina. Trigall Genetics aims to expand its activities into regions where farmers face climate change challenges and, more specifically, drought. With a harvest of more than 32 million tons of wheat, Australia is a priority development geography for Trigall Genetics, where the effects of climate change are ever more pressing.
S&W Seed Company currently conducts wheat breeding activities in Australia, counting wheat within its crop portfolio alongside sorghum, alfalfa, and various pasture crops. To ensure the most successful development of its wheat variety portfolio, S&W seeks to benefit from the expertise of an international wheat breeder such as Florimond Desprez. Florimond Desprez historically breeds wheat in Greater Europe, North Africa, and Latin America.
Trigall Australia activities would be based in New South Wales and would aim first at developing wheat varieties for all Australian regions and uses, all the while supporting Australian cereal farmers. Trigall Australia would be expected to be the favoured platform for Bioceres Crop Solutions and Florimond Desprez to develop their activities in Australia, be it crop productivity solutions or alternative breeding activities for crops such as barley, durum wheat, potato, or pulses. All Australian wheat breeding activities of S&W would be owned and operated by Trigall Australia.
François Desprez, president of Trigall Genetics and Florimond Desprez declares: "As a cereals and pulses breeder, we are very excited with this opportunity which could potentially allow us to step into a major wheat country in the world and reinforces the fruitful cooperation that exists between Bioceres Crop Solutions and Florimond Desprez since 2013."
Federico Trucco, vice-president of Trigall Genetics and CEO of Bioceres Crop Solutions comments: "This investment would be a very important step in our strategy to bring HB4® EcoWheat® to farmers in every corner of the world. Australia is not only a leading participant of the global wheat value chain, but it is also a geography that is chronically affected by severe drought events, a condition we seek to mitigate with our drought tolerance technology. Partnering with S&W would allow us to make this opportunity a near-term reality."
Mark Wong, CEO of S&W Seed comments: "We believe this joint venture could significantly strengthen S&W's position in wheat, enabling us to benefit from the worldwide exposure the combined entity provides. Further, it would allow us to focus our efforts internally on our key centers of value. We look forward to further exploring the benefits this unique partnership would enable."
Trigall Genetics is a joint venture between Bioceres Crop Solutions (Nasdaq: BIOX) and Groupe Florimond Desprez for the development of wheat varieties. Bioceres Crop Solutions is a fully-integrated provider of crop productivity solutions, including high-impact, patented technologies for seeds and microbial ag-inputs, as well as next-generation crop nutrition and protection solutions, each of which offers substantial economic and environmental benefits and are anchored by the HB4® technology, which is behind the world's only drought-tolerant soybeans and wheat. Florimond Desprez is a French independent family-owned breeding company that operates in 65 countries, devotes 15% of its turnover to R&D, and employs 1,200 persons worldwide. Florimond Desprez is an active player of the agroecology transition and works mainly on crops intended for human consumption ‒ a world leader in sugar beet seeds, a leading European cereal breeder, and a major player in the European seed potato market.
Founded in 1980, S&W Seed Company is a global agricultural company headquartered in Longmont, Colorado. S&W's vision is to be the world's preferred proprietary seed company which supplies a range of forage and specialty crop products that supports the growing global demand for animal proteins and healthier consumer diets. S&W is a global leader in proprietary alfalfa, sorghum, and pasture seeds, with significant research and development, production, and distribution capabilities. S&W's product portfolio also includes hybrid sunflower and wheat, and the company is utilizing its research and breeding expertise to develop and produce stevia, the all-natural, zero-calorie sweetener for the food and beverage industry. For more information, please visit www.swseedco.com.
This 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 and such forward-looking statements are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. "Forward-looking statements" describe future expectations, plans, results, or strategies and are generally preceded by words such as "may," "future," "plan" or "planned," "intend", "will" or "should," "expect," "anticipates," "draft," "eventually" or "projected." Forward-looking statements in this release include but are not limited to statements regarding the existence of preliminary, nonbinding discussions to potentially create a wheat joint venture, the substance and status of those discussions and the possible benefits that could result from a joint venture. You are cautioned that such statements are subject to a multitude of risks and uncertainties that could cause future circumstances, events, or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements, including: the risk that the preliminary, nonbinding discussions may not result in a consummated transaction; the risk that the joint venture may not be created in the manner or on the terms expected, or at all; and the risk that the joint venture may not provide the benefits anticipated. These and other risks are identified in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including, without limitation, our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended June 30, 2021 and in other filings subsequently made by the Company with the Securities and Exchange Commission. All forward-looking statements contained in this press release speak only as of the date on which they were made and are based on management's assumptions and estimates as of such date. We do not undertake any obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of the receipt of new information, the occurrence of future events or otherwise.
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SOURCE S&W Seed Company | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/sampw-trigall-genetics-jv-between-bioceres-crop-solutions-florimond-desprez-enter-discussions-combine-wheat-efforts-australia/ | 2022-05-11T21:33:35Z |
Girl, 15, crashes car Thursday afternoon in high-speed chase on I-70 in Geary County
JUNCTION CITY, Kan. (WIBW) - A teenage girl crashed the car she was driving while fleeing from law enforcement officers Thursday afternoon in a high-speed chase in Geary County, authorities said.
The crash was reported at 12:56 p.m. Thursday on Interstate 70 at the Milford Road exit, about seven miles west of Junction City.
According to the Kansas Highway Patrol, a 2000 Pontiac was traveling at a high rate of speed as it was being pursued by law enforcement officers in the westbound lanes of I-70.
The Pontiac attempted to exit I-70 at Milford Lake Road, the patrol said.
The driver was unable to maneuver the right-turn onto Milford Road and crashed into the east ditch.
Four occupants, including the driver, were in the Pontiac, the patrol said.
The driver was identified as the driver, Kuis S. Sampson, 15, of Junction City. She was reported uninjured in the crash. The patrol said Sampson wasn’t wearing her seat belt.
The passengers were identified as:
Lillith Morrison, 15, of Junction City. She was reported to have suspected minor injuries and was transported to Geary Community Hospital for treatment. The patrol said Morrison wasn’t wearing her seat belt.
Alexis Marie Philippi, 15, of Junction City, who was reported to have possible injuries, though there was no record of her being transported to the hospital. The patrol said Philippi wasn’t wearing her seat belt.
Mabel Elizabeth Rieser, 15, of Junction City, who was reported uninjured. The patrol said Rieser wasn’t wearing her seat belt.
Copyright 2022 WIBW. All rights reserved. | https://www.wibw.com/2022/06/02/girl-15-crashes-car-thursday-afternoon-high-speed-chase-i-70-geary-county/ | 2022-06-02T23:59:03Z |
Stark Bites: Deli Ohio open summer Saturdays; Main Street Deli to reconstruct after fire
Deli Ohio, which just celebrated its nine-year anniversary, announced on its Facebook page that it will be open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays during the Canton Farmers' Market season.
The Canton Farmers’ Market is open every Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. June 25 through Oct. 22, with the exception of Aug. 6 and Sept. 3.
“The farmers’ market has always been a great community event that has brought a wonderful crowd into downtown and customers in our doors,” Deli Ohio owner Ryan Miller said. “We felt that with the recent move to Centennial Plaza (even closer to Deli Ohio), we wanted to be able to be here when potential customers are close by.”
Top Stark County restaurants:Feast Awards: Highlighting 17 of Stark County's Best Restaurants
“Prior to the pandemic, Deli Ohio had always been open on Saturdays, so even though we are still struggling with staffing and making sure every position is covered, we decided we were going to give it our best efforts to be here at least during the farmers’ market,” Miller said.
The popular downtown Canton deli, at 328 Walnut Ave. NE, offers unique, gourmet lunch and breakfast sandwiches, as well as a rotational menu of soups and sides. Stop in to see the selection of available baked goods.
Deli Ohio is open 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday. For more information and to see the full menu, visit deliohio.com.
Main Street Deli plans to reconstruct, will be closed for at least six months
A fire broke out at Main Street Deli in Navarre on June 30, causing owners Keith Hancock and Renee Veselenak to lose everything. They said the structure was OK, but announced the deli would be closed indefinitely.
In a Facebook post made by the owners and crew of Main Street Deli on July 6, they shared that Main Street Deli would be closed for at least six months for reconstruction.
After meeting with Robert Garner of State Farm Insurance, Erie Valley Fire & Rescue, the Navarre Police Department and Design Restoration & Reconstruction Inc., they concluded that the inside of the deli was a total loss and reconstruction would take at least six months.
“If you have service scheduled with us within the next six months, we cannot fill it,” the post stated. “We are sorry and ask that you find another local source. Any pre-purchased gift cards now have a never ending expiration date and will be honored as soon as we are back open!"
The owners thanked their Facebook followers for their love and support.
Fire at Navarre deli:Main Street Deli in Navarre closed after Thursday fire
In a post on Veselenak’s personal page, she asked friends for help finding “a ghost kitchen or small facility to rent for wholesale production two days a week.” In the post, she mentioned it would require an inspection by the Department of Agriculture, which she would be willing to fund and prepare.
“We would like to keep our wholesale business operating while we rebuild our business that was lost in a fire,” Veselenak said in the post.
Thirsty Thursdays are back for another year at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium
The 21-and-older crowd is invited to bring friends, coworkers and partners to Hall of Fame Village for an evening of fun. From 6 to 9 p.m. on July 14, July 28, Aug, 18 and Sept. 7 (a Wednesday), there will be live entertainment, views of The Village from the Sky Level Terrace, light appetizers, giveaways and more. You also can purchase a behind-the-scenes tour of the stadium.
Tickets are $20 each, and are discounted when purchased for groups of 20 or more. Each ticket includes one drink and light appetizers.
Q92 Radio's Nikolina, the Mid-Day Diva, will host the party and announce giveaways each evening.
The live entertainment will be different for each event. Half the Nation will perform July 14, with Chris Kraft performing July 28. Saxy Rob will perform for guests Aug. 18 and The Berrys will perform Sept. 7.
IDs will be checked at the door.
Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium is at 1835 Harrison Ave. NW in Canton.
To purchase tickets, visit hofvillage.com/p/events/thirsty-thursdays.
Bocca Grande recently opened its patio
A month ago, Bocca Grande Italian Steakhouse in Canal Fulton started teasing patio photos on its Facebook page. The wait is over. The patio is officially open.
Round tables for four adorned with red umbrellas line the majority of the patio, located at the rear of the restaurant. A few bright red Adirondack chairs offer a lounge spot at one end. The banister has a string of lights to brighten the area at night.
Bocca Grande thanked Sean Roseman of Roseman Construction, RBS General Contracting, “for exceeding all of our expectations” in the Facebook post announcing the patio was open.
Bocca Grande celebration:Couple celebrate 30th birthday of Italian restaurant they opened as newlyweds
Comments flooded in showing lots of excitement for the new addition.
The menu at Bocca Grande includes a variety of pasta, chicken and seafood dishes, beef and pork meals, steaks, sandwiches, pizza, salads and appetizers.
Bocca Grande is at 4490 Erie Ave. NW in Canal Fulton and is open from 4 to 9 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. For reservations, call 330-832-2162. Visit boccagrande.com for more information. | https://www.cantonrep.com/story/lifestyle/food/2022/07/13/deli-ohio-open-summer-saturdays-main-street-deli-to-reconstruct-hof-stadium-bocca-grande-patio/7770092001/ | 2022-07-13T13:18:16Z |
Ongoing shift to digital media constricting real sales
CLEVELAND, Ohio, Aug. 26, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- US demand for paper industry machinery (including parts and attachments) is forecast to see less than 1.0% annual growth in nominal terms through 2026, according to Paper Industry Machinery: United States, a report recently released by Freedonia Focus Reports. Increases will be the result of rising prices for machinery and parts. Real gains will be prevented by declining demand for writing and printing paper, as individuals, offices, and schools continue to shift to digital media. Additionally, the large amount of capital investment by paper and paperboard producers in 2021 and 2022 will hinder investment in subsequent years. However, the ongoing shift to e-commerce will support investment in machinery for the production of paperboard packaging. Efforts among paper and board producers to reduce operating costs through upgrades to more efficient and faster machinery will also boost sales. Demand for paper industry machinery and parts is forecast to grow 1.7% in 2022, with nominal gains reflecting rising prices.
These and other key insights are featured in Paper Industry Machinery: United States. This report forecasts to 2022 and 2026 US paper industry machinery and parts demand and shipments in nominal US dollars at the manufacturer level. Total demand is segmented by product in terms of:
- wood preparation and other pulp mill machinery
- converting machinery
- paper production machinery
- finishing machinery
- parts and attachments
To illustrate historical trends, total demand, total shipments, the various segments, and trade are provided in annual series from 2011 to 2021.
Printing machinery is excluded from the scope of this report. Re-exports of paper industry machinery are excluded from demand and trade figures. Trade figures include movements of used equipment.
More information about the report is available at:
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 Industrials 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.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/08/26/price-increases-offset-falling-demand-paper-industry-machinery/ | 2022-08-26T14:52:57Z |
NEW YORK, July 22, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Jakubowitz Law announces that a securities fraud class action lawsuit has commenced on behalf of shareholders of IonQ, Inc. (NYSE: IONQ).
To receive updates on the lawsuit, fill out the form:
The lawsuit seeks to recover losses for shareholders who purchased IonQ between March 30, 2021 and May 2, 2022.
Shareholders interested in acting as a lead plaintiff representing the class of wronged shareholders have until August 1, 2022 to petition the court. Your ability to share in any recovery doesn't require that you serve as a lead plaintiff.
According to a filed complaint, IonQ, Inc. issued materially false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (1) IonQ had not yet developed a 32-qubit quantum computer; (2) the Company's 11-qubit quantum computer suffered from significant error rates, rendering it useless; (3) IonQ's quantum the computer is not sufficiently reliable, so it is not accessible despite being available through major cloud providers; (4) a significant portion of IonQ's revenue was derived from improper roundtripping transactions with related parties; and (5) as a result of the foregoing, defendants' positive statements about the Company's business, operations, and prospects were the materially misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis.
Jakubowitz Law is vigorous in pursuit of justice for shareholders who have been the victim of securities fraud. Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.
CONTACT:
JAKUBOWITZ LAW
1140 Avenue of the Americas
9th Floor
New York, New York 10036
T: (212) 867-4490
F: (212) 537-5887
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SOURCE Jakubowitz Law | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/07/22/ionq-shareholder-alert-jakubowitz-law-reminds-ionq-shareholders-lead-plaintiff-deadline-august-1-2022/ | 2022-07-22T10:12:21Z |
Feel the joy, connectivity, and uplifting sensory experience of their plant-based drinks that are expertly crafted without alcohol or sugar
NEW YORK, June 22, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Little Saints, the only mocktail brand to combine CBD and Reishi mushrooms in their ingredients, today releases two new effervescent flavors, Spicy Margarita and Mimosa. Together with Ginger Mule and Paloma, these four bold flavored non-alcoholic drinks are designed to provide an uplifting sensory experience through the following thoughtfully combined Plant Magic ingredients: fast acting nano-emulsified CBD, aromatic terpenes, and calming Reishi mushrooms. Founded by environmental lawyer turned plant-foods entrepreneur, Megan Klein, shaped by a female food scientist with a Masters in adaptogens (plants that help the body adapt to stress), and guided by a sacred plant medicine shaman, this woman-led company sets out to elevate emotional wellbeing and to encourage connectivity with nature. Launched at music festivals from day one, Little Saints embodies fun and joy. It is the mocktail to drink for a good time.
"Having launched Little Saints as a one-woman-show selling out of our 'Baby Mint' vending trailer at outdoor music events throughout Detroit, Michigan in the summer of 2021, I am overjoyed to see how much we have grown in our first year," says Little Saint's Founder Megan Klein. "Our plant magic mocktails are now distributed nationally and loved by many people searching for a delicious, uplifting and sugar-free alternative to alcoholic cocktails. Our new flavors - Spicy Margarita and Mimosa - are pure fun in a can, and I can't wait to drink them with our plant magic-loving community all summer long."
What is Plant Magic and how does it work? Each of Little Saints' mocktails contains a magic stack of the following three master plant ingredients:
- Hemp-Derived CBD – A non-intoxicating derivative of the hemp plant, our CBD is fast-acting and designed to give you the take-the-edge-off feeling.
- Botanical Terpenes - Aromatic and deliciously distinctive, terpenes are the naturally occurring, mood-enhancing scents that enrich plants, roots, herbs and flowers.
- Reishi Mushroom - Traditional healers have used this adaptogen for centuries to boost resilience and promote a feeling of calm.
Complementing the Plant Magic ingredients, carb-free monkfruit (only 5 calories) is added for sweetness while ensuring 0 sugar is used.
How does Little Saints celebrate fun? Fun heals everything, and their goal is to share joy, levity and good vibes with their community through their thoughtful products and their four impactful flavors.
- (NEW) Spicy Margarita – Sensory notes of juicy lime, mild jalapeno, orange blossom; visually yellow like the sunset (colored by turmeric). Best served on ice in a rocks glass, jalapeno garnish optional.
- (NEW) Mimosa – Sensory notes of clementine with citrus rind notes and sweet honey; visually orange (colored by tree seeds). Best served in champagne flute. Chilled, of course.
- Ginger Mule – Sensory notes of lime, citrus rinds, ginger, and a hint of lavender. Best served cold, in a rocks glass, to appreciate the iridescent fizz.
- Paloma – Sensory notes of grapefruit, citrus rinds and a hint of agave; visually pink (colored by veggies). Best served on ice in a tall glass, lime garnish optional.
What are the values of this woman-led brand? Little Saints is focused on demonstrating standards through deliberate daily choices. With a respect for feelings, intuition and connection, Little Saints honors feminine energy as a source of love and empowerment accessible to all genders. Through sourcing, partnerships and distribution purchasing decisions, Little Saints promotes environmental sustainability and conscious capitalism. With integrity and an open mind, Little Saints serves the community by donating more than 1% of its revenue to organizations fostering equity in relation to plant medicine and mental health.
Little Saints is a brand of plant magic beverages inspired by our deep reverence for plants and equally deep commitment to fun. Working with functional ingredients sourced from Master Plants—plants with special spiritual and curative properties—Little Saints creates non alcoholic, sugar-free Plant Magic mocktails. With flavors inspired by classic cocktails —like Paloma and Espresso Martini—the ready-to-drink mocktails are formulated with Little Saints proprietary blend of CBD, botanical terpenes, and Reishi mushroom. This plant magic "stack" was created in collaboration with Little Saints' adaptogen-expert food scientist and sacred-plant-medicine shaman to inspire positive emotions and a lifted spirit.
Little Saints is available at Erewhon, Farmshop, and Pattern Bar in Los Angeles, Berkeley Bowl in San Francisco, as well as Spirited Away, Whalebone Bleecker, and Whalebone Montauk in New York. $5.99 per 8oz can. For additional information on Little Saints, follow the brand on Instagram at @littlesaintsco.
Megan Klein, Little Saints' Founder + CEO, is a longtime advocate for plant-inspired living. As an environmental lawyer early in her career, Megan fought against frackers and factory farm polluters. Later, she became a modern farmer, running the country's largest vertical farm and playing a role in the burgeoning local food movement in the Midwest. As an extension of her work in local foods, in 2017 Megan founded Field + Farmer a plant-based food and beverage brand sold in grocery stores throughout the U.S. While running that company, Megan enrolled in the Kellogg School of Management, where she was when the pandemic hit—and when her thoughts turned to emotional healing. Megan founded Little Saints in May 2021 in Detroit, and has since moved herself and the company to New York City, where she hugs trees daily.
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SOURCE Little Saints | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/06/22/little-saints-introduces-spicy-margarita-mimosa-flavors-into-their-collection-plant-magic-mocktails-time-summer/ | 2022-06-22T20:31:00Z |
- All-new Laufenn X FIT HP tire expands touring SUV and CUV offering with all-season product
- Engineered to provide dynamic handling characteristics, in addition to a quiet and comfortable driving experience
NASHVILLE, Tenn., Sept. 7, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Leading global tire maker Hankook Tire announced today the launch of an all-season SUV tire to its Laufenn brand portfolio. The Laufenn X FIT HP tire, available in 28 sizes supporting popular rim diameter ranges from 16 to 22 inches, offers SUV and CUV drivers seeking a comfortable and quiet ride without sacrificing performance across wet, dry and winter driving conditions.
The Laufenn X FIT HP incorporates innovative tread and compound technologies to provide drivers with a well-rounded, affordable, and thoughtfully constructed product. Utilizing an optimized stiffness distribution and a wide square tread profile, the X FIT HP reduces road noise, complementing the tire's contact patch to deliver better mileage and driving performance. Additional enhancements include the tire's tread pattern, which features four circumferential grooves with complementary lateral and multi-layer patterns. These design elements enable the X FIT HP to excel in water evacuation, maintain stability in wet conditions, and prevent potential surface hazards such as hydroplaning.
"In keeping with our brand ethos of delivering a life-fit product, this latest addition to our Laufenn FIT product line offers SUV and CUV owners an exciting option to enrich their driving experience," said Rob Williams, Senior Vice President, North American Sales, Hankook Tire. "The Laufenn brand fulfills the consumer desire for a product that focuses on quality, yet delivers a tailormade feel for a great value. Our X FIT HP tire is a perfect example of that."
With a Uniform Tire Quality Grading (UTQG) rating of 640, the X FIT HP offers exceptional durability and accommodates various popular fitments across the SUV and CUV segments. This latest X FIT HP tire joins the well-established Laufenn product portfolio that includes the S FIT, G FIT, X FIT and I FIT models.
Laufenn brand aims to serve smart, sensible consumers with a well-rounded range of quality products, which fit a variety of lifestyle needs through timely tire performance upgrades and enhancement. Established in March 2015 in the US, Laufenn was launched in strategic markets including North America, Latin America, Europe, Middle-East and Asia-Pacific regions, where it is run as Hankook Tire's second global brand. http://www.laufenn.com/
Hankook Tire America Corp. is a growing leader in the U.S. tire market, leveraging investments in technology, manufacturing and marketing to deliver high-quality, reliable products that are safer for consumers and the environment. Headquartered in Nashville, Tenn., Hankook Tire America Corp. markets and distributes a complete line of high-performance and ultra-high-performance passenger tires, light truck and SUV tires as well as medium truck and bus tires in the United States. Hankook Tire America Corp. is a subsidiary of Hankook Tire & Technology Co., Ltd., a Forbes Global 2000 company headquartered in Seoul, Korea.
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SOURCE Hankook Tire America Corp. | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/09/07/laufenn-launches-all-season-x-fit-hp-tire-suvs/ | 2022-09-07T15:12:42Z |
LOS ANGELES, June 27, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Glancy Prongay & Murray LLP ("GPM") announces that investors with substantial losses have opportunity to lead the securities fraud class action lawsuit against Teladoc Health, Inc. ("Teladoc" or the "Company") (NYSE: TDOC).
Class Period: October 28, 2021 – April 27, 2022
Lead Plaintiff Deadline: August 5, 2022
If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff of the Teladoc lawsuit, you can submit your contact information at www.glancylaw.com/cases/teladoc-health-inc-1/. You can also contact Charles H. Linehan, of GPM at 310-201-9150, Toll-Free at 888-773-9224, or via email at shareholders@glancylaw.com to learn more about your rights.
The complaint filed alleges that, throughout the Class Period, Defendants failed to disclose to investors that: (1) increased competition, among other factors, was negatively impacting Teladoc's BetterHelp and chronic care businesses; (2) accordingly, the growth of those businesses was less sustainable than Defendants had led investors to believe; (3) as a result, Teladoc's revenue and adjusted EBITDA projections for FY 2022 were unrealistic; (4) as a result of all the foregoing, Teladoc would be forced to recognize a significant non-cash goodwill impairment charge; and (5) as a result, Defendants' positive statements about the Company's business, operations, and prospects were materially misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis at all relevant times.
Follow us for updates on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Facebook.
To be a member of the class action you need not take any action at this time; you may retain counsel of your choice or take no action and remain an absent member of the class action. If you wish to learn more about this class action, or if you have any questions concerning this announcement or your rights or interests with respect to the pending class action lawsuit, please contact Charles Linehan, Esquire, of GPM, 1925 Century Park East, Suite 2100, Los Angeles, California 90067 at 310-201-9150, Toll-Free at 888-773-9224, by email to shareholders@glancylaw.com, or visit our website at www.glancylaw.com. If you inquire by email please include your mailing address, telephone number and number of shares purchased.
This press release may be considered Attorney Advertising in some jurisdictions under the applicable law and ethical rules.
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SOURCE Glancy Prongay & Murray LLP | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/06/27/tdoc-investors-have-opportunity-lead-teladoc-health-inc-securities-fraud-lawsuit/ | 2022-06-27T16:11:23Z |
Flood victims are seen here receiving relief aid in Sindh province's Sukkur city on the Indus River on September 4. Authorities in Pakistan have warned it could take up to six months for deadly flood waters to recede in the country's hardest-hit areas.
Authorities in Pakistan have warned it could take up to six months for deadly flood waters to recede in the country's hardest-hit areas, as fears rise over the threat posed by waterborne diseases including cholera and dengue.
Floods caused by record monsoon rains and melting glaciers in Pakistan's northern mountain regions have so far claimed the lives of more than 1,400 people, and affected an estimated 33 million more, washing away homes, roads, railways, livestock and crops. Damages are now expected to total more than $30 billion -- triple that of an earlier estimate of around $10 billion.
"Karachi is seeing an outbreak of dengue as hundreds and thousands of patients are reporting daily at government and private hospitals. The dengue cases this year are 50% higher than last year. With 584,246 people in camps throughout the country, the health crisis could wreak havoc if it will go unchecked," Pakistan's climate minister Sherry Rehman said Monday.
Rehman warned the country was now facing the prospect of massive food shortages, owing to the destruction of up to 70% of staple crops such as rice and maize, and urgently needed "food, tents and medicines."
Rising flood waters also remain a risk, especially in hard hit areas along the Indus River in Sindh province, with meteorological forecasts indicating continuous rainfall is expected to stretch through September.
In a statement Monday, Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah said the prolonged monsoon rains will push back efforts to clear the water, with estimates ranging from 3 to 6 months in some of the worst affected areas.
He added that the country's largest freshwater lake, Manchar, has been overflowing since early September, with flood waters impacting several hundred villages and more than 100,000 people.
"We are expediting our efforts to provide medicines and medics to the 81 calamity-hit flood affected districts of the country. However, these are still very initial estimates as new data is coming up on the ground," said Shah.
In a two day visit to flood ravaged Pakistan, Guterres expressed "deep solidarity with the Pakistani people over the devastating loss of life and human suffering caused by this year's floods," and met with Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on the disaster response.
Guterres called on the international community on Friday to support flood-stricken Pakistan, arguing that while the South Asian nation's contribution to climate change was minimal, it is one of the most impacted by its consequences.
"Pakistan has not contributed in a meaningful way to the climate change, the level of emissions of this country is relatively low, but Pakistan is one of the most dramatically impacted countries by climate change, it's the front line of the impact of climate change," Guterres said after attending a briefing at Pakistan's National Flood Response Coordination Centre (NFRCC) on Friday.
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SANTA MONICA, Calif., May 17, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Macerich (NYSE: MAC), one of the nation's leading owners, operators and developers of one-of-a-kind retail and mixed-use properties in top markets, today announced it will welcome 17 Cotton On Group stores to regional town centers across the U.S. This is in addition to the 12 stores already open within Macerich's portfolio.
Cotton On Group is a leading global fashion and lifestyle company founded in Australia, with eight Aussie lifestyle brands and available in 22 countries.
The Cotton On Group stores coming to Macerich properties include both Cotton On and Cotton On KIDS, as well as several combination "megastore" concepts comprising both, and select locations with Cotton On Body. While Cotton On delivers trend-forward womenswear, menswear and accessories, Cotton On KIDS offers fashionable, fun and age-appropriate children's clothing. Cotton On is known for exciting collaborations with brands such as Disney, MTV and Hard Rock Cafe, as well as artists like Keith Haring.
As Cotton On Group continues to take its brands to the world, the company prioritizes Doing Good along the way as well as supporting the work of the Cotton On Foundation under the pillars of Holistic Education, Mental Health and Environment.
"We're excited to partner with Macerich to continue bringing our brands to top U.S. markets. Cotton On Group and Macerich share an enthusiasm to engage consumers who seek out purpose-driven retailers when making their shopping choices," said Mark Pan, President USA, Cotton On Group. "Our team will continue to grow, and we want people on the journey with us who are passionate about our customer, who absolutely love what they do – and above all else, who want to make a positive difference."
Set to open in 2022 and 2023, new Cotton On Group locations at Macerich properties include:
Cotton On
Fashion Outlets of Niagara Falls (NY)
FlatIron Crossing (CO)
Kings Plaza (NY)
Queens Center (NY)
Stonewood Center (CA)
The Mall at Victor Valley (CA)
Cotton On Kids
Danbury Fair Mall (CT)
Deptford Mall (NJ)
FlatIron Crossing (CO)
Los Cerritos Center (CA)
Queens Center (NY)
Cotton On megastores
Freehold Raceway Mall – store expansion (NJ)
Fresno Fashion Fair (CA)
Green Acres Mall (NY)
Scottsdale Fashion Square (AZ)
Valley River Center (OR)
Washington Square (OR)
"Best-in-class global brands like Cotton On continue to choose Macerich's outstanding regional town centers for their newest retail locations, thanks to our role as proven platforms for retailer success," said Tom O'Hern, CEO, Macerich. "Cotton On Group has exceptional lifestyle brands that not only provide a wonderful experience for shoppers, but also complement our company's longstanding commitment to social and environmental responsibility."
About Cotton On Group
Cotton On Group's vision is to take their Aussie lifestyle to the rest of the world, Doing Good along the way. With a purpose to make a positive difference in people's lives, today the Group is eight brands, over 1,400 stores operating in 22 countries, and 18,000 team members. To learn more, check out their inaugural impact report, The Good Report.To learn more, visit https://cottonongroup.com.au/.
About Macerich
Macerich is a fully integrated, self-managed and self-administered real estate investment trust (REIT), which focuses on the acquisition, leasing, management, development, and redevelopment of regional town centers throughout the United States.
Macerich currently owns 48 million square feet of real estate consisting primarily of interests in 44 regional town centers. Macerich specializes in successful retail properties in many of the country's most attractive, densely populated markets with significant presence on the West Coast and in Arizona, and the Metro New York to Washington, D.C. corridor. A recognized leader in sustainability, Macerich has achieved a #1 GRESB ranking for U.S. retail for seven straight years (2015 – 2021). Additional information about Macerich can be obtained from the Company's website at www.Macerich.com.
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SOURCE Macerich Company | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/05/17/macerich-welcome-17-cotton-group-stores-across-us-portfolio/ | 2022-05-17T11:36:59Z |
Secret Oath gives 86-year-old Lukas 5th Kentucky Oaks win
By GARY B. GRAVES
AP Sports Writer
LOUISVILLE, Ky. (AP) — Secret Oath charged from pack to grab the lead from Yuugiri and held off favorite Nest by two lengths Friday in the Kentucky Oaks at Churchill Downs, giving 86-year-old trainer D. Wayne Lukas his fifth Oaks win and first since 1990. Coming off a third-place run behind colts Cyberknife and Barber Road in the Arkansas Derby, the chestnut filly started the 14-horse race from the rail and was in the middle as Yuugiri and Echo Zulu set the pace through the final turn. Secret Oath steadily worked forward and moved into contention in a five-wide pack by the far turn before surging along the rail into the lead. Lukas last won the Oaks in 1990 with Seaside Attraction. He also won in 1989, 1984 and 1982. | https://localnews8.com/sports/ap-national-sports/2022/05/06/secret-oath-gives-86-year-old-lukas-5th-kentucky-oaks-win/ | 2022-05-07T01:17:29Z |
Dr. Jeanne Zanca assumes IRB chair, following two decades of service by Dr. Richard Greene
EAST HANOVER, N.J., Aug. 4, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- After 20 years of service, Richard Greene, MD, PhD, announced his retirement last month from his position as chair of the Institutional Review Board (IRB) at Kessler Foundation. Dr. Greene's successor is Jeanne Zanca, MPT, PhD, senior research scientist in the Center for Spinal Cord Injury Research at Kessler Foundation. In addition to assuming the role of IRB chair, Dr. Zanca was promoted to assistant director of the Center.
Dr. Greene earned his medical degree from Johns Hopkins University and his doctorate in molecular biology from Massachusetts Institute of Technology. He began his career at Kessler Foundation in June 2002. He brought with him decades of experience including research positions with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and New York Presbyterian Hospital, and teaching positions at Columbia University, University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, and New Jersey Institute of Technology.
"It is with great enthusiasm that I take on the role of IRB chair in addition to my new position as assistant director of SCI research, said Dr. Zanca. "I am looking forward to working with our well-established team to ensure that we protect the rights and welfare of our research participants and facilitate our organization's diverse portfolio of research.
"I have experienced the IRB review process from both sides – as a researcher and an IRB member. Institutional Review Boards play a key role in both regulatory compliance and enabling discoveries that can change the lives of people with disabilities. I will work with our team to maintain our IRB's highest level of standards while reflecting institutional policies, federal regulation, and guidance," she added.
As IRB chair, Dr. Zanca's primary responsibility is to ensure that the Foundation's research protects the rights and safety of research participants. She oversees IRB activities, including reviews of research protocols; analysis and sharing of information about new or modified requirements for the conduct of clinical research; research protocol audits; reports on grant status to management and funding agencies; and maintenance of resource documents required for grant applications. Dr. Zanca also serves as Kessler Foundation's liaison with Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation, Children's Specialized Hospital, and Rutgers - New Jersey Medical School in matters related to the IRB and Fellowship Training committees.
As assistant director for the Center for Spinal Cord Injury Research, Dr. Zanca will continue her research in secondary complications of spinal cord injury (SCI). Her emphasis is on empowering interventions – programs or services that enable people with SCI and their loved ones to take the actions needed in everyday life to prevent and manage complications of SCI. Her current research focuses on promoting self-management of chronic pain and its consequences and improving quality of personal care assistance services for people with SCI.
Dr. Zanca contributed to the development of the Rehabilitation Treatment Specification System, which provides a theoretical framework designed to improve research design and reporting, health professions education, and uptake of evidence-based interventions in clinical practice.
Dr. Zanca is a research associate professor at Rutgers - New Jersey Medical School. She is also co-investigator for the Northern New Jersey Spinal Cord Injury System (NNJSCIS), a federally funded Spinal Cord Injury Model System (SCIMS), and co-chair of the national SCIMS Knowledge Translation Committee.
Dr. Zanca serves on the American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine (ACRM) Board of Governors and is chair of the Rehabilitation Treatment Specification Networking Group. Her service with ACRM includes past chair of the Spinal Cord Injury Interdisciplinary Special Interest Group (SCI-ISIG) and membership in the Program Committee and Training Institute Committee.
Dr. Zanca reports to the Foundation's president and CEO Rodger DeRose in her role as IRB chair. As assistant director of the Center for Spinal Cord Injury Research, she will continue to report to the Center's director, Trevor Dyson-Hudson, MD.
Kessler Foundation, a major nonprofit organization in the field of disability, is a global leader in rehabilitation research that seeks to improve cognition, mobility, and long-term outcomes – including employment – for people with neurological disabilities caused by diseases and injuries of the brain and spinal cord. Kessler Foundation leads the nation in funding innovative programs that expand opportunities for employment for people with disabilities. For more information, visit KesslerFoundation.org
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SOURCE Kessler Foundation | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/08/04/kessler-foundation-announces-change-leadership-institutional-review-board/ | 2022-08-04T18:03:41Z |
Benefit is Payable up to $70,000 for Cancer, Heart Attack, and Stroke
DALLAS, Aug. 15, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Liberty Bankers Insurance Group (LBIG), a nationally recognized provider of life, health, and financial products, today announced its critical illness product has increased the maximum lump sum benefit from $30,000 to $70,000. This increased benefit is available through the company's independent agent distribution channel in twenty states.
The critical illness product includes cancer, heart attack, and stroke plans and is offered through Liberty Bankers Life Insurance Company, a member of Liberty Bankers Insurance Group.
"If a policyholder is diagnosed with cancer, or had a heart attack or stroke, the critical illness benefit is payable to them in a single lump sum," said Dave Peters, senior vice president, supplemental health division at Liberty Bankers Insurance Group. "With our product, the lump sum benefit provided only depends on the plan selected, not on the treatment received."
The critical illness product offers an automatic recurrence benefit on every policy. One year after a heart attack or stroke, or one year after cancer goes into remission, the policyholder's lump sum benefit starts to rebuild. After five years, it is back to 100% of the original benefit. This recurrence benefit is payable an unlimited number of times.
"Battling cancer or recovering from a stroke is expensive," said Brian Clark, chief marketing officer at Liberty Bankers Insurance Group. "From medication to childcare and living expenses, policyholders can feel financially prepared should the unexpected happen."
The lump sum benefit increase for the critical illness product is now available in Alaska, Arkansas, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, Ohio, Oklahoma, Virginia, Washington, and West Virginia. In other states where the critical illness product is available, the lump sum benefit will increase to $70,000 in the near future.
About Liberty Bankers Insurance Group
Based in Dallas, Texas, Liberty Bankers Insurance Group (LBIG) is a nationally recognized and respected insurance group that offers a variety of life, health, and financial products. Rated A- Excellent by AM Best, LBIG is comprised of American Monumental Life Insurance Company, American Benefit Life Insurance Company, Capitol Life Insurance Company, and Liberty Bankers Life Insurance Company.
More information is available at www.lbig.com.
Liberty Bankers Insurance Group
Kim Neeley
(800) 731-4300
marketing@lbig.com
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SOURCE Liberty Bankers Insurance Group | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/08/15/liberty-bankers-insurance-group-increases-lump-sum-benefit-critical-illness-product/ | 2022-08-15T16:48:09Z |
Team USA wins the World Cup in Sarasota
SARASOTA, Fla. (WWSB) - The crowd was filled with fans waving flags and chanting as Team USA won the 30th U-18 Baseball World Cup.
One Team USA player, Bryce Eldridge, hit a three-run homer to help lift Team USA to the World Championship over Chinese Taipei 5 to 1.
ABC7′S James Hill talked with Bryce after team USA celebrated on the Orioles baseball diamond at Ed Smith Stadium.
“This is kind of a surreal feeling so, my heart is still racing but yeah I’m just glad I got to help the team out on both sides. You know we also have Blake Mitchell out there going out to pitch and he’s been hitting all week so shout out to him and shout out to all of the guys. We just put together a really good team and we all built some great chemistry and this has been the time of my life.”
Copyright 2022 WWSB. All rights reserved. | https://www.mysuncoast.com/2022/09/18/team-usa-wins-world-cup-sarasota/ | 2022-09-18T22:25:51Z |
Ukraine tennis players juggle matches, war raging at home
By STEVE REED
AP Sports Writer
ASHEVILLE, N.C. (AP) — When Ukrainian women’s tennis player Katarina Zavatska first learned that Russia had invaded her homeland, she was unable to pick up a racket for more than a week. Every waking second, she says her thoughts were consumed with the safety of her family back home in Ukraine. But Zavatska says she needs to continue playing to help her family survive in Ukraine. Zavatska and her Ukrainian teammates will play this weekend in Asheville, North Carolina against the third-seeded United States in the qualifying round of the Billie Jean King Cup. And while they would love to win, the Ukrainians would understandably trade a victory on the court for peace back home. | https://localnews8.com/sports/ap-national-sports/2022/04/13/ukraine-tennis-players-juggle-matches-war-raging-at-home/ | 2022-04-13T17:11:20Z |
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In honor of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month in September, national 43 Challenge research and fundraising initiative harnesses community involvement
TAMPA, Fla., Sept. 1, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Today marks the beginning of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, and the National Pediatric Cancer Foundation (NPCF), committed to eradicating childhood cancer, is launching an annual appeal to support pediatric cancer research. Every day, 43 children are diagnosed with cancer, and NPCF's latest campaign aims to dramatically reduce that statistic.
The NPCF recently launched a nationwide grant program called the 43 Challenge, encouraging physicians, scientists and thought leaders to submit proposals for a $4.3 million research grant. Since only 4% of all federal funding for cancer research is spent on projects involving childhood cancer, NPCF's goal is for the grant program to help offset this lack of funding.
NPCF is proud to announce the following winners of the $4.3 million research grant: pediatric oncologist, Dr. Dan Weiser at Montefiore Einstein Cancer Center/Children's Hospital at Montefiore; Dr. Keisuke Iwamoto at David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA; and Dr. Gregory Sullivan at Paratope Bio, LLC. Each of these winning thought leaders has a scientific theory to advance the fight against pediatric cancer, and the NPCF grants will allow them to advance their studies and research.
Dr. Weiser's science has identified a novel technology that can control and degrade a specific c-MYC gene (known as the master regulator) across many types of cancer. Since c-MYC is detected in 74% of human cancers, the ability to degrade and attack this common link has the potential to transform the treatment of cancer.
Dr. Iwamoto is a renowned expert on radiation and its use in cancer treatment. Using his studies into the radiological effects of nuclear bombs on survivors during WWII, he will use quantum mechanics to precisely target specific tumor cells without harming normal cells, revolutionizing cancer treatment. The method uses conventional clinical procedures in a novel combination within a weak magnetic field, akin to a refrigerator magnet's. If successful, it could be introduced into any hospital without major infrastructural, financial, or procedural difficulty to treat children and even infants with medulloblastoma, the most common childhood brain cancer.
The work of Dr. Sullivan and Paratope Bio, LLC will leapfrog traditional drug development to produce a smart set of innate antibodies that have limited toxicity and would specifically attack pediatric tumors.
"As a result of NPCF's 43 Challenge campaign, we've identified research proposals valued at $50 million. We need the public's support to pursue these studies, complete this critical science, and save these children's lives," said NPCF CEO David Frazer.
To help raise critical research funds, communities are encouraged to visit www.helpfundthecure.org and donate in increments of 43. Individuals and companies are also encouraged to challenge 43 friends, family members or associates in their network to support their fundraising goals.
NPCF's 43 Challenge has reached a nationwide audience, with celebrity participants such as Tom Brady and Kathy Ireland. Brady recently joined NPCF in its Cut for a Cure event, allowing cancer patients to dye his hair orange to help raise awareness for pediatric cancer research. The National Pediatric Cancer Foundation is recognized by Charity Navigator as the charitable leader for fiscal responsibility, and for advancing research that involves fewer toxic approaches and shifting towards more therapeutic treatments.
The National Pediatric Cancer Foundation (founded in 1991) is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to funding research to eliminate childhood cancer. We govern a unique, collaborative research consortium (called the Sunshine Project) consisting of physicians and scientists from thirty-two of the top hospitals in the nation. We collaborate to idealize and aggregate the best scientific ideas and fund innovative research. The NPCF has received a perfect 100% score for financial health and transparency and is recognized as the top-rated cancer charity in the U.S. by Charity Navigator. For more information, visit NationalPCF.org or connect via Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.
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SOURCE National Pediatric Cancer Foundation | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/09/01/national-pediatric-cancer-foundation-leads-fight-against-childhood-cancer/ | 2022-09-01T13:23:57Z |
The multi-year agreement will help the Mexican hotel operator accelerate its growth plans and drive higher revenue through Sabre's SynXis Central Reservations.
SOUTHLAKE, Texas, July 14, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Sabre Corporation (NASDAQ: SABR), a leading provider of software and technology powering the global travel industry, today announced a new distribution agreement with Posadas, Mexico's leading hotel operator, which will help accelerate its growth plans and drive higher revenue through Sabre's SynXis Central Reservations (CR) platform.
The agreement will allow the hotel operator to put its inventory in front of hundreds of thousands of travel agents globally across all major global distribution systems (GDS) through Sabre Hospitality's innovative SynXis CR. This platform offers specific functionalities and capabilities that help drive higher revenue and streamline internal processes, improving efficiency.
"Sabre is an important travel technology company in the world and with leadership in Mexico that offers a comprehensive distribution platform for the different sales channels including the Global Distribution Systems (GDS)," said José Jaime Lorenzo, director of Revenue Management, Technology and Distribution, Posadas. "Our partnership with Sabre includes replacing our current GDS connectivity technology with SynXis."
Sabre also continues to support Posadas' GDS marketing, helping to position its hotels under the Live Aqua, Grand Fiesta Americana, Curamoria Collection, Fiesta Americana, The Explorean, IOH, Fiesta Inn, Gamma and one brands through Sabre's Sponsored Property and Promospot campaigns.
"We are delighted to support Posadas' distribution strategy with the implementation of SynXis CR. To successfully compete and drive incremental revenue opportunities, it is essential that hoteliers equip themselves with the right technology tools to put their offerings in front of global markets," said Frank Trampert, senior vice president and global general manager, Community Sales, Sabre Hospitality. "We are excited to enable Posadas to capture and create future travel demand in a key market like Mexico and beyond."
Available in eight languages, SynXis CR enables a single system of record that can help implement hoteliers' distribution strategy, reaching the industry's broadest distribution points and supporting their business goals. Hotel owners and managers can enter and maintain their own property information, including rates, photos, inventory and policies, as well as view booking data and reports through the SynXis online portal, where they can access various marketing tools.
About Sabre Corporation
Sabre Corporation is a leading software and technology company that powers the global travel industry, serving a wide range of travel companies, including airlines, hoteliers, travel agencies and other suppliers. The company offers sales, distribution and fulfillment solutions that help its customers operate more efficiently, generate revenue and deliver personalized experiences to travelers. Through its leading travel marketplace, Sabre connects travel providers with buyers around the world. Sabre's technology platform manages more than $260 billion in global travel expenses annually. Headquartered in Southlake, Texas, USA, Sabre serves customers in more than 160 countries around the world. For more information, visit www.sabre.com.
About Posadas
Posadas is the leading hotel operator in Mexico that owns, leases and manages 185 hotels and 28,690 rooms, with a presence in the most important and visited beach and city destinations in Mexico and the Dominican Republic. Its hotels located in city destinations represent 87% of the total rooms it has and in beach destinations 13%. Posadas operates the Live Aqua Beach Resort, Live Aqua Urban Resort, Live Aqua Boutique Resort, Grand Fiesta Americana, Curamoria Collection, Fiesta Americana, The Explorean, IOH, Fiesta Inn, Gamma and one brands, as well as the Live Aqua Residence Club and Fiesta Americana Vacation Club vacation programs. Posadas has been listed on the Mexican Stock Exchange (BMV) since 1992. For more information, visit: www.posadas.com.
SABR-F
Media Contact at Sabre:
Denise Canelas
denise.canelas@sabre.com
Media Contact at Posadas:
Claudia Mercado
claudia.mercado@edelman.com
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SOURCE Sabre Corporation | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/07/14/posadas-sabre-will-collaborate-boost-distribution-strategy-hotel-operator/ | 2022-07-14T13:29:46Z |
Twitter whistleblower bringing security warnings to Congress
WASHINGTON (AP) — Peiter “Mudge” Zatko, the Twitter whistleblower who is warning of security flaws, privacy threats and lax controls at the social platform, will take his case to Congress on Tuesday.
Senators who will hear Zatko’s testimony before the Senate Judiciary Committee are alarmed by his Twitter allegations at a time of heightened concern over the safety of powerful tech platforms.
It’s Zatko’s second Capitol Hill appearance, and in some ways a 21st-century echo of his first. In 1998, he testified before a Senate panel along with fellow members of a hacker collective who warned about the security dangers of the then-emerging internet age.
Zatko, a respected cybersecurity expert, was Twitter’s head of security until he was fired early this year. He has brought the stunning allegations to Congress and federal regulators, asserting that the influential social platform misled regulators about its cyber defenses and efforts to control millions of “spam” or fake accounts.
Sen. Dick Durbin, the Illinois Democrat who chairs the panel, has said that if Zatko’s claims are accurate, “they may show dangerous data-privacy and security risks for Twitter users around the world.”
Zatko’s accusations are also playing into billionaire tycoon Elon Musk’s battle with Twitter. The Tesla CEO is trying to get out of his $44 billion bid to buy the company; Twitter has sued to force him to complete the deal. The Delaware judge overseeing that case ruled last week that Musk can include new evidence related to Zatko’s allegations in the high-stakes trial set to start Oct. 17.
The allegation that Twitter engaged in deception in its handling of automated “spam bot” accounts is at the core of Musk’s attempt to back out of the Twitter deal.
At the same time, many of Zatko’s claims are uncorroborated and appear to have little documentary support. In a statement, Twitter has called Zatko’s description of events “a false narrative.”
Also on Tuesday, Twitter’s shareholders are scheduled to vote on the company’s pending buyout by Musk. The vote is something of a formality given that the deal is on hold while the court case plays out. But if the measure passes as expected, it would also pave the way for a Musk takeover should Twitter prevail in court.
Zatko also filed complaints with the Justice Department, the Federal Trade Commission and the Securities and Exchange Commission. Among his most serious accusations is that Twitter violated the terms of a 2011 FTC settlement by falsely claiming that it had put stronger measures in place to protect the security and privacy of its users.
The SEC is questioning Twitter about how it counts fake accounts on its platform. Twitter uses counts of its presumably real users to attract advertisers, whose payments make up about 90% of its revenue. The “spam bots” have no value to advertisers because there’s no person behind them.
San Francisco-based Twitter has an estimated 238 million daily active users worldwide. The company says it removes 1 million spam accounts daily.
Zatko’s 84-page complaint alleges that he found “extreme, egregious deficiencies” on the platform, including issues with “user privacy, digital and physical security, and platform integrity/content moderation.”
It accuses CEO Parag Agrawal and other senior executives and board members of making “false and misleading statements to users and the FTC” about these issues. Twitter denies those claims and said that Zatko was fired in January for “ineffective leadership and poor performance.” Zatko’s attorneys say the performance claim is false.
Twitter also hinted that Zatko’s complaint might be designed to bolster Musk’s legal fight with the company. Twitter called Zatko’s complaint “a false narrative” that is “riddled with inconsistencies and inaccuracies, and lacks important context.”
News of Zatko’s complaint surfaced on Aug. 23, almost two months before the Twitter-Musk trial is scheduled to begin. . One of Zatko’s attorneys has said “he’s never met Elon Musk. Doesn’t know Elon Musk. They know people in common.”
The company also says it has significantly tightened security since 2020.
Among Zatko’s specific allegations:
— The company had such poor cybersecurity that it easily could have been exposed to outside attacks or attempts to siphon off its internal data.
—The company lacked effective leadership, with its top executives practicing “deliberate ignorance” of pressing problems. Zatko described former CEO Jack Dorsey as “extremely disengaged” during the last months of his tenure, to the point where he wouldn’t even speak during meetings on complex issues. Dorsey stepped down in November 2021.
—That Twitter knowingly allowed the government of India to place its agents on the company payroll, where they had “direct unsupervised access” to highly sensitive data on users. It makes a parallel but less detailed accusation that Twitter took funding from unidentified Chinese entities who may have gained access enabling them to access the identities and sensitive data of Chinese users who secretly use Twitter, which is officially banned in China.
Better known by his hacker handle “Mudge,” Zatko, 51, first gained prominence in the 1990s. He was the best-known member of the Boston-based collective L0pht, which pioneered ethical hacking, embarrassing companies including Microsoft for poor security. His work raised awareness in the computing world that forced such major companies to take security seriously. He co-founded the consultancy @Stake, which was later acquired by Symantec.
Zatko later worked in senior positions at the Pentagon’s Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency and Google. He joined Twitter at Dorsey’s urging in late 2020, the same year the company suffered an embarrassing security breach involving hackers who broke into the Twitter accounts of world leaders, celebrities and tech moguls, including Musk, in an attempt to scam their followers out of bitcoin.
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AP technology writers Frank Bajak in Boston and Matt O’Brien in Providence, Rhode Island, contributed to this report.
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Follow Marcy Gordon at https://twitter.com/mgordonap
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | https://www.wibw.com/2022/09/12/twitter-whistleblower-bringing-security-warnings-congress/ | 2022-09-12T20:16:52Z |
BOSTON, July 29, 2022 /PRNewswire/ - John Hancock Premium Dividend Fund (NYSE: PDT) (the "Fund"), a closed-end fund managed by John Hancock Investment Management LLC and subadvised by Manulife Investment Management (US) LLC, announced today sources of its monthly distribution of $0.0975 per share paid to all shareholders of record as of July 11, 2022, pursuant to the Fund's managed distribution plan. This press release is issued as required by an exemptive order granted to the Fund by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.
Notification of Sources of Distribution
This notice provides shareholders of the John Hancock Premium Dividend Fund (NYSE: PDT) with important information concerning the distribution declared on July 1, 2022, and payable on July 29, 2022. No action is required on your part.
Distribution Period: July 2022
Distribution Amount Per Common Share: $0.0975
The following table sets forth the estimated sources of the current distribution, payable July 29, 2022, and the cumulative distributions paid this fiscal year to date from the following sources: net investment income; net realized short term capital gains; net realized long term capital gains; and return of capital or other capital source. All amounts are expressed on a per common share basis and as a percentage of the distribution amount.
You should not draw any conclusions about the Fund's investment performance from the amount of this distribution or from the terms of the Fund's managed distribution plan.
The Fund estimates that it has distributed more than its income and net realized capital gains; therefore, a portion of your distribution may be a return of capital. A return of capital may occur, for example, when some or all of the money that you invested in the Fund is paid back to you. A return of capital distribution does not necessarily reflect the Fund's investment performance and should not be confused with "yield" or "income."
The amounts and sources of distributions reported in this Notice are only estimates and are not being provided for tax reporting purposes. The actual amounts and sources of the amounts for tax reporting purposes will depend upon the Fund's investment experience during the remainder of its fiscal year and may be subject to changes based on tax regulations. The Fund will send you a Form 1099-DIV for the calendar year that will tell you how to report these distributions for federal income tax purposes.
The Fund has declared the July 2022 distribution pursuant to the Fund's managed distribution plan (the "Plan"). Under the Plan, the Fund makes fixed monthly distributions in the amount of $0.0975 per share, which will continue to be paid monthly until further notice.
If you have questions or need additional information, please contact your financial professional or call the John Hancock Investment Management Closed-End Fund Information Line at 1-800-843-0090, Monday through Friday between 8:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m., Eastern Time.
Effective October 1, 2021, copies of all notices informing shareholders of distributions made by the fund in excess of accumulated net investment income will be posted on John Hancock Investment Management's public website (jhinvestments.com) and on the Legal Notice System (LENS), a service offering of the Depository Trust Company (DTC) accessible by broker-dealer firms. To the extent required, notice may also be provided via press release. John Hancock Investment Management distributed paper copies of these notices by mail until March 30, 2022. Effective April 1, 2022, the notices will be delivered exclusively via the methods described above.
Statements in this press release that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements as defined by the United States securities laws. You should exercise caution in interpreting and relying on forward-looking statements because they are subject to uncertainties and other factors which are, in some cases, beyond the Fund's control and could cause actual results to differ materially from those set forth in the forward-looking statements.
An investor should consider a Fund's investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses carefully before investing.
A company of Manulife Investment Management, we serve investors through a unique multimanager approach, complementing our extensive in-house capabilities with an unrivaled network of specialized asset managers, backed by some of the most rigorous investment oversight in the industry. The result is a diverse lineup of time-tested investments from a premier asset manager with a heritage of financial stewardship.
Manulife Investment Management is the global brand for the global wealth and asset management segment of Manulife Financial Corporation. We draw on more than a century of financial stewardship and the full resources of our parent company to serve individuals, institutions, and retirement plan members worldwide. Headquartered in Toronto, our leading capabilities in public and private markets are strengthened by an investment footprint that spans 18 geographies. We complement these capabilities by providing access to a network of unaffiliated asset managers from around the world. We're committed to investing responsibly across our businesses. We develop innovative global frameworks for sustainable investing, collaboratively engage with companies in our securities portfolios, and maintain a high standard of stewardship where we own and operate assets, and we believe in supporting financial well-being through our workplace retirement plans. Today, plan sponsors around the world rely on our retirement plan administration and investment expertise to help their employees plan for, save for, and live a better retirement. Not all offerings are available in all jurisdictions. For additional information, please visit manulife.com.
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SOURCE Manulife Financial Corporation | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/07/29/john-hancock-premium-dividend-fund-notice-shareholders-sources-distribution-under-section-19a/ | 2022-07-29T21:01:04Z |
35-year-old man arrested on charges of possession and distribution of child porn
FONTANA, Calif. (Gray News) – Authorities in California arrested a man who was accused of downloading and distributing child pornography over the internet.
Detectives with the Fontana Police Department served a search warrant in April 2021 at the home of 35-year-old Christopher Lauderdale in Yucaipa, California.
Authorities seized multiple electronic devices from the home and said Lauderdale was not home during the execution of the search warrant. Detectives discovered evidence indicating Lauderdale may have had access to a child during the search.
Lauderdale was located a few days later in Huntington Beach, California, where police say he was arrested for possession and distribution of child pornography. He was booked at West Valley Detention Center.
Anyone with information related to this case is asked to contact the Fontana Police Department Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force at JDRODRIGUEZ@FONTANA.ORG.
Copyright 2022 Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved. | https://www.mysuncoast.com/2022/04/25/35-year-old-man-arrested-charges-possession-distribution-child-porn/ | 2022-04-25T19:31:24Z |
Judge grants Trump bid for special master in Mar-a-Lago case
WASHINGTON (AP) — A federal judge on Monday granted a request by former President Donald Trump’s legal team to appoint a special master to review documents seized by the FBI during a search of his Florida home last month.
The decision by U.S. District Judge Aileen Cannon came despite the objections of the Justice Department, which said an outside legal expert was not necessary in part because officials had already completed their review of potentially privileged documents. The judge had previously signaled her inclination to approve a special master, asking a department lawyer during arguments this month, “What is the harm?”
The appointment may slow the pace of the department’s investigation into the presence of top-secret information at Mar-a-Lago, but it is unlikely to affect any investigative decisions or the ultimate outcome of the probe.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | https://www.kxii.com/2022/09/05/judge-grants-trump-bid-special-master-mar-a-lago-case/ | 2022-09-05T16:19:13Z |
NRA stages marketing event as Texas mourns school shooting
HOUSTON (AP) — The National Rifle Association begins its annual convention in Houston on Friday, and leaders of the powerful gun-rights lobbying group are gearing up to “reflect on” -- and deflect any blame for -- the deadly shooting earlier this week of 19 children and two teachers at an elementary school in Uvalde, Texas.
Former President Donald Trump and other leading Republicans are scheduled to address the three-day firearms industry marketing event, which is expected to draw protesters fed up with gun violence.
Some scheduled speakers and performers have backed out, including two Texas lawmakers and “American Pie” singer Don McLean, who said “it would be disrespectful” to go ahead with his act in the aftermath of the country’s latest mass shooting.
While President Joe Biden and Democrats in Congress have renewed calls for stricter gun laws, NRA board member Phil Journey said the focus should be on better mental health care and trying to prevent gun violence. He said he wouldn’t support banning or limiting access to firearms.
The NRA said in an online statement that meeting attendees will “reflect on” the Uvalde school shooting, “pray for the victims, recognize our patriotic members, and pledge to redouble our commitment to making our schools secure.”
People planning to attend picked up registration badges Thursday and shopped for NRA souvenirs, such as T-shirts that say “Suns Out Guns Out.” Police already had set up metal barriers across the street from the convention center, at a park where protesters are expected to gather Friday.
Texas has experienced a series of mass shootings in recent years. During that time, the Republican-led Legislature and governor have relaxed gun laws.
There is precedent for the NRA to gather amid local mourning and controversy. The organization went ahead with a shortened version of its 1999 meeting in Denver roughly a week after the deadly shooting at Columbine High School in Colorado. Actor Charlton Heston, the NRA president at that time, told attendees that “horrible acts” shouldn’t become opportunities to limit constitutional rights and he denounced critics for casting NRA members as “villains.”
Rocky Marshall, a former NRA board member, said that although the tragedy in Uvalde “does put the meeting in a bad light,” that’s not a reason to cancel it. Marshall said gun-rights advocates and opponents can perhaps reduce gun violence if they focus on factors such as mental illness or school security.
“Throwing rocks at the NRA, that doesn’t solve the next mass shooting,” he said. “Throwing rocks at the people that hate guns, that doesn’t solve the next mass shooting.”
But country music singer Larry Gatlin, who pulled out of planned appearance at the event, said he hopes “the NRA will rethink some of its outdated and ill-thought-out positions.”
“While I agree with most of the positions held by the NRA, I have come to believe that, while background checks would not stop every madman with a gun, it is at the very least a step in the right direction,” Gatlin said.
White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said Thursday that the NRA’s leaders “are contributing to the problem of gun violence and not trying to solve it.” She accused them of representing the interests of gun manufacturers, “who are marketing weapons of war to young adults.”
Two Republican Texas lawmakers who had been scheduled speak Friday — U.S. Sen. John Cornyn and U.S. Rep. Dan Crenshaw — are no longer attending due to what their staffs said were changes in their schedules.
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott and Sen. Ted Cruz, both Republicans, were listed as speakers, and Trump said Wednesday that he still intends to attend. South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem, a Republican, also is sticking to her plans to speak Friday at the NRA event.
Though personal firearms are allowed at the convention, the NRA said guns would not be permitted during the session featuring Trump because of Secret Service security protocols.
Several groups have said they planned to stage protests outside of the convention center.
“This is not the time or the place to have this convention,” said Cesar Espinosa, executive director of FIEL, a Houston-based civil rights group that plans to participate in protests. “We must not just have thoughts and prayers from legislators, but rather we need action to address this public health crisis that is affecting our communities.”
Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner, a Democrat, said the city is obligated to host the NRA event, which has been under contract for more than two years. But he urged politicians to skip it.
“You can’t pray and send condolences on one day and then be going and championing guns on the next. That’s wrong,” Turner said.
Shannon Watts, the founder of gun-control group Moms Demand Action, said she was not surprised the NRA is not canceling its meeting.
“The real question now is which elected officials will choose to side with violence and go kiss the ring in Houston this weekend instead of siding with communities crying out for public safety,” Watts said.
___
David A. Lieb reported from Jefferson City, Missouri.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | https://www.kxii.com/2022/05/26/nra-stages-marketing-event-texas-mourns-school-shooting/ | 2022-05-26T21:44:51Z |
Avast sees global increase in ransomware attacks with 24% increase in Q2/2022 from previous quarter
Avast's Ransomware Shield offers an additional layer of protection, ensuring organizations have uninterrupted access to systems and data
PRAGUE, Aug. 24, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Avast (LSE:AVST), a global leader in digital security and privacy, today launches a new Ransomware Shield for businesses, offering organizations an extra layer of protection against ransomware attacks. This will ensure businesses can secure their most important files and crucially, customer data, with proactive protection which prevents unauthorized access. The new feature is available now, included, as part of the Avast Essential, Premium, and Ultimate Business Security packages for businesses for both Windows and MacOS.
Despite observing a decline in ransomware attacks in Q4 2021 and Q1 2022, ransomware attacks are increasing globally once again. Avast witnessed a 24% increase in ransomware attacks in Q2 2022 in comparison to Q1 20221.
Filip Hlinka, VP of Product, Avast Business, says, "Small businesses are facing a growing threat from ransomware, with cybercriminals increasingly targeting smaller organizations to encrypt crucial business data and disrupt operations. The results can be devastating for small businesses that lack the financial and technical resources to rebound from such attacks. Avast's antivirus has always offered consumers and business users powerful protection against cyberthreats including ransomware, and Ransomware Shield offers a purpose-built, additional layer of protection which helps to secure businesses' most crucial files against these highly damaging attacks."
While Avast customers are already protected against ransomware via Avast's existing Web Shield, File Shield, and Behavior Shield, Ransomware Shield works alongside them to provide multi-layered protection, ensuring businesses have uninterrupted access to their systems and data. Ransomware Shield works by safeguarding files and folders from being modified, deleted, or encrypted by unknown applications. Users can specify which applications have permission to access their files, providing an additional layer of protection for organizations' most confidential and important data. The new feature is automatically enabled by default, and users can customize the list of protected files and folders in the policy in the Avast Business Hub.
Ransomware Shield is now available for all Avast Small Business Solutions users.
For more information contact us
E-mail: pr@avast.com
About Avast Business:
Avast Business, part of Avast (LSE:AVST, a FTSE 100 company), a global leader in cybersecurity and privacy products with over 435 million users, provides enterprise-grade endpoint and network security solutions for small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs) and IT service providers. Avast Business delivers powerful integrated security and privacy solutions to make it easy and affordable for businesses to protect complex and evolving network security layers. Backed by Avast's immense threat detection network, which is among the largest and most advanced in the world, Avast Business uses machine learning and artificial intelligence technologies to detect and stop threats in real time.
Further information relating to this release:
Keep in touch with Avast Business:
- For more information about Avast visit: https://www.avast.com/en-gb/about and https://www.avast.com/company-faqs
- Follow us on Twitter: @Avastbusiness
- For small business security insights, visit the Avast Business blog: https://blog.avast.com/topic/business-security
- Join our LinkedIn community: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/avast-for-business/
1 Avast Q2 2022 Research Report: https://decoded.avast.io/threatresearch/avast-q2-2022-threat-report/
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SOURCE Avast Software, Inc. | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/08/24/avast-ransomware-shield-offers-new-layer-protection-businesses-light-evolving-threats/ | 2022-08-24T07:57:43Z |
Toppan Photomask Co., Ltd., the only photomask manufacturer with manufacturing locations in the U.S., Europe, Japan, and Asia coupled with participation from Integral Corporation, will drive further growth and enhance competitiveness as an independent entity and support the semiconductor industry as the world's merchant photomask market leader.
TOKYO, April 1, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Toppan (TYO: 7911), a global leader in communication, security, packaging, décor materials, and electronics solutions, has entered into a share transfer agreement to carve out its semiconductor photomask business and establish a new company, Toppan Photomask Co., Ltd. (Toppan Photomask), with independent Japanese private equity company Integral Corporation (Integral) as an investment partner. Toppan Photomask begins operations today as a joint venture between Toppan and Integral. The company will drive further growth and strengthen competiveness as an independent business entity that continues to support the rapidly growing semiconductor industry.
As digital innovation accelerates in diverse markets due to the evolution of technologies including artificial intelligence, automotive, power, and 5G networks, the global semiconductor market continues to expand at a rapid pace and is forecast to be worth more than 100 trillion yen in 2030. Against a backdrop of a global shortage of semiconductors, manufacturers are moving to bolster production capacity, which is in turn driving unprecedented demand for photomasks, essential components for semiconductor fabrication.
Since entering the photomask business in 1961, Toppan has continued to support growth of the semiconductor industry by deploying its advanced technological capabilities and expanding its manufacturing network from Japan to Asia, North America, and Europe. Amid a growing trend for national governments to support domestic production of semiconductors, Toppan is the only photomask manufacturer to have a worldwide production network and enjoys the leading share of the merchant market for semiconductor photomasks.
The rapid growth of the semiconductor market, however, is driving the photomask market to a turning point, requiring manufacturers to make investments in R&D and equipment faster and more flexibly than ever before, based on accurate assessment of market changes and customer trends.
After extensive exploration of potential strategic options in response to the market environment, Toppan has determined that the best way to contribute to greater value for customers and shareholders is to implement an agile investment-focused strategy based on market needs by joining with Integral. This strategy will enable continuous enhancement of growth and competitive strength by increasing the degree of management freedom as an independent business entity.
While receiving support as a consolidated subsidiary of Toppan Inc., Toppan Photomask will continue to manufacture semiconductor photomasks, strengthen its management and governance functions by taking advantage of support and expertise from Integral—which has an extensive track record of supporting IPOs—and drive the business forward to achieve accelerated growth toward a future stock market listing.
In its semiconductor-related business, Toppan will also strengthen FC-BGA substrate offerings, which are seeing robust demand, and develop and provide components and devices for growth fields such as healthcare, mobility, communication, and sensors.
Toppan Photomask is headed by CEO Teruo Ninomiya, who commented, "We are very excited to be making a new start that will drive greater efficiency and provide even better service in an extremely dynamic market. An IPO will be one milestone for us in the future as we look to support the long-term growth of the semiconductor sector in collaboration with our customers in a constantly changing landscape. We will bring together the expertise and excellence of our people throughout the world to drive continuous improvement and create new value as our customers' first-choice partner by leveraging strengths in technological development and teamwork as well as the outstanding quality, cost, and delivery enabled by our global manufacturing network."
Overview of new company
About Toppan
Established in Tokyo in 1900, Toppan is a leading and diversified global provider committed to delivering sustainable, integrated solutions in fields including printing, communications, security, packaging, décor materials, electronics, and digital transformation. Toppan's global team of more than 50,000 employees offers optimal solutions enabled by industry-leading expertise and technologies to address the diverse challenges of every business sector and society and contribute to the achievement of shared sustainability goals.
For more information, visit https://www.toppan.com/en/ or follow Toppan on LinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/toppan/.
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SOURCE Toppan; Toppan Photomask | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/04/01/toppan-carves-out-semiconductor-photomask-business-launch-new-company/ | 2022-04-01T12:11:09Z |
NEW YORK, Aug. 10, 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.
CONTACT US HERE:
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=30688&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.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/08/10/shareholder-alert-gross-law-firm-notifies-shareholders-unilever-plc-class-action-lawsuit-lead-plaintiff-deadline-august-15-2022-nyse-ul/ | 2022-08-10T10:14:21Z |
Woman killed Thursday in wrong-way crash on I-35 in Sedgwick County
PARK CITY, Kan. (WIBW) - A woman was killed early Thursday in a wrong-way crash on Interstate 135 in Sedgwick County, authorities said.
According to the Kansas Highway Patrol, the crash was reported at 5:54 a.m. Thursday on southbound I-135 at 53rd Street North in Park City.
According to the patrol, a 2000 Ford Ranger pickup truck was traveling north in the southbound lanes of I-1-35 when it struck a 2018 Ford F-350 pickup that was traveling south in the left lane of the divided highway.
The driver of the Ranger, Robin S. Buckman, 58, of Wichita, was pronounced dead at the scene. The patrol said it was unknown whether Buckman, who was alone in the truck, was wearing a seat belt.
The driver of the F-350 truck, Dylan R. Bryant, 31, of Valley Center, was reported to have suspected minor injuries. There was no report of Bryant being transported to the hospital. The patrol said Bryant, who was alone in the F-350, was wearing a seat belt.
Copyright 2022 WIBW. All rights reserved. | https://www.wibw.com/2022/04/22/woman-killed-thursday-wrong-way-crash-i-35-sedgwick-county/ | 2022-04-22T11:34:35Z |
"The world's biggest yoga protest" brought together hundreds of climate-justice practitioners to demand better business practices from the athleisure-wear giant.
VANCOUVER, BC, Sept. 17, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- On Saturday, September 17, roughly 100 yoga practitioners and concerned citizens gathered outside lululemon headquarters at 11:00 AM PST to participate in "Yoga for Coal-Free Fashion," billed as "the world's biggest yoga protest." The intention behind this 90-minute event was to urge lululemon to publicly commit to quit coal and transition to 100 percent renewable energy across its supply chain by 2030. Participants flowed through yoga poses, did breathing exercises, and blasted the brand for environmentally destructive actions that sharply contradict its yogic values.
Folder of Public Visuals–updated throughout the day
"We held this yoga protest today to remind lululemon that doing yoga is more than selling leggings. It's about aligning our values with what we practice – something that lululemon has failed to do with its sustainability plans," Eredene Batz, Digital Campaigner at Stand.earth said. "As a brand focused on health and wellness, lululemon's failure to stop using coal in its factories and cutting its toxic pollution is a letdown for its customers and the yoga community."
This week lululemon released a report showing it increased the climate pollution from manufacturing its products by a shocking 60% in just 12 months. lululemon's target of reducing its emissions intensity by 60% already falls short of the needs of the moment, but the report showed that in the last year lululemon's emissions intensity actually increased by as much as 9%. With 2030 rapidly approaching, lululemon now faces the enormous challenge of cutting its emissions intensity by more than half in just eight years if it plans to reach its target. Without a commitment to transition its supply chain to 100% renewable energy that is local and additional to the grid by 2030, lululemon's emissions will continue to rise.
"Just this week, lululemon reported the climate pollution from manufacturing its products jumped by over 60% in a single year. The reason is simple: lululemon's rapid growth is being fueled by an increased reliance on coal and other fossil fuels" said Gary Cook, Global Climate Campaign Director at Stand.earth. "CEO Calvin McDonald must follow the lead of companies like H&M, Puma and Apple who have committed to shift their factories off fossil fuel to 100% renewable electricity."
"lululemon's supply chain is polluting our air and climate," said Tina Pashumati James, a Senior Ashtanga yoga teacher and owner of Loka Yoga, who led the yoga class. "We're here to hold lululemon accountable for failing to commit to quit coal and switch to renewable energy by 2030 - and for betraying their staff, customers, the climate, impacted communities and violating their own values."
For more than a year, Stand.earth has called on lululemon — one of the biggest, most profitable, and fastest-growing sportswear brands in the world — to
address the impacts of its supply chain on climate change and the public health of local communities..its contributions to climate change. In February 2022, Stand.earth criticized the company's Team Canada Olympics gear for contributing to climate change and threatening the very future of winter sports (See photos). In November 2021, Stand.earth released an analysis revealing that despite lululemon's participation in fashion industry climate initiatives, and despite its commitment to reduce emissions in the coming decade, the company's supply chain emissions actually increased in 2020.
Stand.earth's Fossil-Free Fashion Scorecard, released in August 2021, benchmarked 47 top fashion companies on their efforts to tackle climate change. The report broadly failed the fashion industry on its efforts to address climate change, and gave lululemon a D– for failing to take meaningful action to work with suppliers to increase renewable energy use in its supply chain, phase out coal usage, or advocate for or sourcing renewable energy for its factories.
Learn more about Stand.earth's Fossil Free Fashion Campaign at lulucoal.com.
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SOURCE Stand.earth | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/09/17/standearth-hosts-worlds-biggest-yoga-protest-confronting-lululemons-unethical-fossil-fuel-consumption-calls-100-renewable-by-2030/ | 2022-09-17T20:19:18Z |
Elon Musk made another $1 billion from his Twitter stake. As if he needs it
By Chris Isidore, CNN Business
Elon Musk has gotten a lot of attention from buying a 9.2% stake in Twitter, along with landing a seat on the company’s board. He’s also worth an additional $1 billion.
In a new filing late Tuesday, Musk disclosed how much he paid for the 73 million shares he started purchasing in late January and completed with a final buy Friday. The average price was $36.16 per share.
The news of his Twitter investment sent shares up 27% Monday, and another 2% by Tuesday’s close, before slipping slightly in Wednesday trading. But even with that step back in price, Musk is looking at an on-paper profit of roughly $1.1 billion on his $2.6 billion investment. That equates to a return of about 40%. Not bad for a two-month investment.
Of course, that amount is essentially sofa cushion change for the world’s richest human being. Musk’s initial investment represented less than 1% of his net worth, which Forbes estimates at $282 billion. A $1 billion profit? Call it a rounding error.
The Federal Reserve estimates that the US median household net worth is $121,700. So if a typical family had the same percentage increase in their net worth that Musk just got from his Twitter windfall, it would total $461. Not exactly earthshaking.
So given his vast wealth, it’s fairly safe to say that no person on the planet has ever needed an extra $1 billion less than Elon Musk.
The-CNN-Wire
™ & © 2022 Cable News Network, Inc., a WarnerMedia Company. All rights reserved. | https://localnews8.com/money/cnn-business-consumer/2022/04/06/elon-musk-made-another-1-billion-from-his-twitter-stake-as-if-he-needs-it/ | 2022-04-06T21:12:04Z |
NEW YORK (AP) — Deepa Fernandes, most recently immigration correspondent and senior newsroom advisor on race and equity issues at the San Francisco Chronicle, is becoming the third host of NPR’s midday news program “Here & Now,” the public radio outlet said Friday.
She will join current hosts Robin Young and Scott Tong on Oct. 10.
Before joining the Chronicle, Fernandes had extensive public radio experience and has worked in Mexico, Cuba, Ecuador and other countries in Latin America and Asia.
“Here & Now” is a co-production with NPR’s Boston affiliate WBUR.
NPR received some attention a year ago for an exodus of minority hosts for other jobs outside the company. They included Tonya Mosley, Fernandes’ predecessor at “Here & Now,” and Audie Cornish, who left for the ill-fated CNN+ streaming service, which was quickly shut down.
Beyond the hiring of Fernandes, NPR points out that in the past year or so, Leila Fadel, Ayesha Rascoe, Juana Summers and A Martinez have all been elevated to more prominent roles hosting news programs at the service. | https://cw33.com/entertainment-news/ap-entertainment/ap-npr-hires-deepa-fernandes-as-third-host-of-here-now/ | 2022-08-27T11:13:37Z |
CLASS 6A REGION II
At Panther Stadium, Hewitt
Boys
Temple — Mikal Harrison-Pilot (4x100 relay), O’Ryan Peoples (4x100 relay), Jalen Robinson (pole vault), Tyson Tamez (800), Tr’Darius Taylor (100, 4x100 relay), Dejohn Thomas (4x100 relay)
Belton — Zachary Dennison (1,600, 3,200), Jackson Engelke (discus), Noah Newman (110 hurdles, 300 hurdles), Clayton Oaks (3,200)
Harker Heights — Rodney Ates (4x200 relay), Juan Emanuel (4x200 relay), Deaubrey Hood (100, 4x200 relay), Evan Kime (pole vault), Marcus Maple (long jump, triple jump), Morris Marshall (discus), Kyshaun Otis (4x200 relay), Re’Shaun Sanford (long jump)
Killeen — Taevon Thomas (400)
Killeen Ellison — Aaron Crittenden (800, 1,600)
Killeen Shoemaker — Jaylin Caldwell (200, 4x200 relay), Eule Ford (4x400 relay), Jerrod Hicks (4x200 relay), Johnathan Segrest (4x400 relay), Maurice Starr (4x200 relay), Troy Stinson (400, 4x400 relay), Khamari Terrell (200), Zavian Tibbs (shot put), Ethan Trice (4x200 relay), Hassan Wilkerson (4x400 relay)
Girls
Temple — Addison King (pole vault), Ali Mack (100 hurdles, 300 hurdles, long jump)
Belton — Olivia Brillhart (1,600, 3,200), Jane Gauntt (pole vault), Ayanna Jones (100, 200, long jump, triple jump)
Copperas Cove — Joem Toala (shot put)
Harker Heights — Treasure Belthea (400), Kailynn Denney (3,200), Keyona Otis (shot put, discus), Ella Perry (1,600, 3,200)
Killeen — Aaliyah Barnes (200, 4x100 relay, 4x400 relay), Diamond Brunn (triple jump), Maniya Croom-Scott (4x100 relay, 4x400 relay), Abigail Mouton (4x100 relay), Michaela Mouton (400, 800, 4x400 relay), Naomi Sanders (4x100 relay), Imari Sims (4x400 relay)
Killeen Ellison — Jasmine Cooke (4x400 relay), Kera Harvey (800, 4x400 relay), Samantha Harvey (4x400 relay), Tiana Plat (4x400 relay)
CLASS 4A REGION I
At Lowrey Field, Lubbock
Boys
Gatesville — Sean Aguilar (4x400 relay), Jacob Baker (300 hurdles), Wesley Brown (200), Ashtyn Culley (long jump), Camden Galindo (long jump), Evan Hanson (shot put, discus), Kason Herbelin (4x400 relay), Luis Macias (800, 1,600), Carlo Martinez (1,600, 3,200, 4x400 relay), Tyler Shea (4x400 relay)
Lampasas — Nate Borchardt (400), Asa White (110 hurdles)
Girls
Gatesville — Barrett Boyd (100 hurdles, high jump, pole vault), Bethany Penrod (800, 1,600), Vania Martinez (1,600, 3,200), Lauren Stuard (100)
Lampasas — Cobie Chandler (4x200 relay), Nyla Long (3,200), Morgan Myers (4x200 relay), Peyton Tatum (pole vault), Gracie Ullevig (4x200 relay), Landry White (4x200 relay)
CLASS 4A REGION III
At Challenger Stadium, League City
Boys
Lake Belton — Keshawn Baptiste (4x400 relay), Selman Bridges (200, 4x100 relay, 4x200 relay), Floyd Bristol (100, 200, 4x200 relay), Dawson Cabiad (4x100 relay, 4x200 relay), Easton Hammond (400, 4x400 relay, high jump, discus), Daniel Hardin (4x100 relay), Challen Ma’ileoi (shot put), Jashaun Manghane (4x400 relay), Caleb Segura (shot put), DJ Tolbert (100), Giovonni Walker (4x100 relay, 4x200 relay, 4x400 relay, long jump, high jump), Javeon Wilcox (triple jump, high jump)
Jarrell — Sebastian Arredondo (4x100 relay), Deondre Brown (high jump), Kamari Fisher (400), Emerson Kirby (discus), MT Mendy (200, 4x100 relay), Jalani Price (4x100 relay), Jamarri Price (4x100 relay), Derrick Warren (100, long jump, triple jump)
Salado — Luke Anderson (800, 1,600), Jackson Bragg (pole vault), Kye Hayes (pole vault), Beau Hill (discus), Nolan Williams (300 hurdles)
Girls
Lake Belton — Emily Bachicha (100, 4x100 relay, 4x200 relay), Sydni Cartwright (long jump, triple jump, high jump), Madison Combest (pole vault), Emily Evatt (high jump), Gabrielle Jones (4x100 relay), Alexandria Lewis (100 hurdles), Taylor Love (pole vault), Madison Lux (discus), Klesha Middleton-Reed (4x100 relay, 4x200 relay), Chelsea Miller (400), Tristen Oliphant (4x100 relay, 4x200 relay), Madison Ortiz (100), Abigail Rydberg (pole vault), Alyssa Tagle (3,200), Layloni Watson (100 hurdles, 300 hurdles, 4x200 relay, long jump, triple jump)
Jarrell — Jasmine Benavidez (800, 1,600)
Salado — Penelope Anderson (800), Ally Ihler (1,600), Ellie Mescher (800), Macy Morris (300 hurdles), Alexa Williams (1,600, 3,200), Lexy Wilson (long jump), Rylee Young (high jump)
CLASS 3A REGION III
At Panther Stadium, Hewitt
Boys
Academy — Scout Brazeal (400), Chris Preddie (long jump, triple jump)
Cameron Yoe — Kardarius Bradley (100, 4x100 relay), Braylan Drake (4x100 relay, 4x400 relay), Nathan Evans (1,600, 3,200), Damon Fleming (800), Javoun Goldsby (400, 4x400 relay), Jaquarius Hardman (4x100 relay, triple jump), Tracer Lopez (300 hurdles, 4x100 relay, 4x400 relay), Tyler Martin (pole vault), Armondo Reyes (400, 4x400 relay)
Rockdale — Yovanney Delgadillo (1,600, 3,200), Tristian Galvan (200, 4x100 relay, 4x200 relay), Tim Grice (200, 4x100 relay, 4x200 relay), Devon Hicks (pole vault), Kobe Mitchell (4x100 relay, 4x200 relay), Robert Owens (100, 4x100 relay, 4x200 relay), Wyatt Windham (high jump)
Rogers — Sam Prado (800), Kade Sebek (800, 1,600, 3,200)
Troy — Carlos Cortez (1,600, 3,200), Ashtin Fontz (4x200 relay), Korey Gibson (200, 4x200 relay), Cooper Valle (4x200 relay, triple jump), Haegen Welch (4x200 relay), Nathan Westbrook (pole vault)
Girls
Academy — Samantha Bankhead (4x100 relay, 4x200 relay), Taylor Brooks (4x100 relay, 4x200 relay), Sophia Hebert (pole vault), Sydney Lambert (4x100 relay), Briley Lisenbe (4x200 relay), Yasmine Traore (4x100 relay, 4x200 relay)
Cameron Yoe — Dayzsha Bradley (4x100 relay, 4x200 relay), Crystal Daniels (4x200 relay), Brandi Drake (100, 200, 4x100 relay), Brittani Drake (4x100 relay, 4x200 relay, 4x400 relay, triple jump), Yierra Flemings (400, 100 hurdles, 4x400 relay, long jump, triple jump), Jessa Florez (discus), Lauren Harris (4x100 relay, 4x200 relay, 4x400 relay), Camryn Ward (4x400 relay)
Rockdale — T’Niya Miles (shot put)
Rogers — Cruzita Avilla (1,600, 3,200), Jacelyn Chervenka (discus), Karley Gomez (800)
Troy — Kylee Goad (100 hurdles, 300 hurdles), Joanne Lee (100 hurdles), Graycee Mosley (discus), Josie Peters (400, 800)
CLASS 2A REGION III
At Wildcat Stadium, Palestine
Boys
Bruceville-Eddy — Billy Eaton (4x400 relay, pole vault), Tylor Eddins (4x100 relay, 4x400 relay), Tyrell Horne (4x100 relay, 4x400 relay), Lastin Madson (1,600), Kaden Pederson (4x100 relay, 4x400 relay), Kadyn Rape (high jump), Willie Wilson (4x100 relay)
Moody — Ryder Casqueira (800), Cooper Staton (300 hurdles), Owen Watson (pole vault)
Rosebud-Lott — Kyle Finan (110 hurdles), Easton Fulton (shot put, discus), Jamarquis Johnson (100, 200, long jump, triple jump), Jordan Landrum (300 hurdles), Breon Lewis (triple jump, high jump), Zane Zeinert (110 hurdles)
Girls
Bruceville-Eddy — Destiny Anguiano (4x200 relay), Emily Hill (4x200 relay), Kalli Speasemaker (4x200 relay, triple jump), Emily Warrick (4x200 relay)
Moody — Kortni Chatham (1,600, 3,200), Cheyenne Driver (300 hurdles), Madison Fairey (pole vault), Colbi Goodwin (4x200 relay, pole vault), Riata Goodwin (high jump), Gracie Gonzalez (4x200 relay), Katelynn Hale (800, 4x200 relay, shot put, discus), Zoe Marburger (100 hurdles, 300 hurdles), Tara Pruett (4x200 relay)
Rosebud-Lott — Kinsley Edwards (discus), Chloe Vega (100 hurdles)
CLASS 2A REGION IV
At Javelina Stadium, Kingsville
Boys
Granger — Donnie Cantwell (4x100 relay), Evan Hutka (4x400 relay), Lucas Matta (400, 4x100 relay, 4x400 relay), DJ McClelland (4x100 relay), Edwin Murillo (4x400 relay), Johnny Ryder (4x100 relay, 4x400 relay, long jump, high jump)
Holland — Tre’vay Brown (shot put), Meshack Griffin (110 hurdles, pole vault), Aiden Severson (400)
Girls
Holland — Madison Cross (high jump), Ryleigh Hand (4x400 relay), Jennah Hargrove (discus), Mary Kriczky (4x400 relay, long jump, triple jump), Lily Martinez (4x400 relay), Haylie Pajestka (high jump), Pacie Plough (4x400 relay), Catelyn Tyler (pole vault)
CLASS 1A REGION IV
At Challenger Stadium, League City
Boys
Bartlett — Jeremy Craig (discus), Wyatt Ingroum (110 hurdles), Connor Kozma (pole vault), Javiere Polynice (400, high jump), Kenneth Smith (shot put, discus)
Girls
Bartlett — Aubrey Cortez (4x100 relay, 4x200 relay), Karyah Crathers (4x100 relay), Marquashia Davis (long jump), Jayda Robertson (4x100 relay, 4x200 relay), Analyss Smith (4x200 relay), Kaleya Smith (4x100 relay), Kymora Young (4x200 relay) | https://www.tdtnews.com/sports/article_05bbdf46-c768-11ec-b800-5ba2715b4d48.html | 2022-04-29T06:30:58Z |
JUSTIN, Texas, July 14, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Canoo (NASDAQ: GOEV), a high-tech advanced mobility company, has been awarded by the U.S. Army to supply an electric vehicle for analysis and demonstration. This contract supports the U.S. military's focus to incorporate scalable and adaptable capabilities in operational and garrison environments.
"As an American company based in the heartland, it is an honor to be selected by the U.S. Army," said Tony Aquila, Investor, Chairman & CEO at Canoo. "This is another opportunity to prove our proprietary technology – which is customizable and adaptable for multiple use cases and special environments."
Canoo's multi-purpose platform was recently selected by NASA for crew transportation vehicles to deliver astronauts to the Artemis launch site for lunar missions to establish the first long-term presence on the Moon.
Canoo's mission is to bring EVs to Everyone. The company has developed breakthrough electric vehicles that are reinventing the automotive landscape with bold innovations in design, pioneering technologies, and a unique business model that spans the full lifecycle of the vehicle. Distinguished by its experienced team from leading technology and automotive companies – Canoo has designed a modular electric platform purpose-built to deliver maximum vehicle interior space that is customizable across all owners in the vehicle lifecycle to support a wide range of vehicle applications for consumers and businesses. Canoo has teams in Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Michigan and California. For more information, please visit www.canoo.com. For Canoo press materials, including photos, please visit press.canoo.com. For investors, please visit investors.canoo.com.
The information in this press release includes "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the "safe harbor" provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward- looking statements may be identified by the use of words such as "estimate," "plan," "project," "forecast," "intend," "will," "expect," "anticipate," "believe," "seek," "target" or other 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 estimates and forecasts of financial and performance metrics, expectations and timing related to commercial product launches and the achievement of operational milestones, including the ability to meet and/or accelerate anticipated production timelines, Canoo's ability to capitalize on commercial opportunities, current or anticipated customer orders, and expectations regarding the development of facilities. These statements are based on various assumptions, whether or not identified in this press release, and on the current expectations of Canoo'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 Canoo. These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, including changes in domestic and foreign business, market, financial, political and legal conditions; Canoo's ability to access future capital, via debt or equity markets, or other sources; the rollout of Canoo's business and the timing of expected business milestones and commercial launch; future market adoption of Canoo's offerings; risks related to Canoo's go-to-market strategy and manufacturing strategy; the effects of competition on Canoo's future business, and those factors discussed under the captions "Risk Factors" and "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" in Canoo's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2021 filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") on March 1, 2022, as well as its past and future Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and other filings with the SEC, copies of which may be obtained by visiting Canoo's Investors Relations website at investors.canoo.com or the SEC's website at www.sec.gov. If any of these risks materialize or our assumptions prove incorrect, actual results could differ materially from the results implied by these forward-looking statements. There may be additional risks that Canoo does not presently know or that Canoo currently believes are immaterial that could also cause actual results to differ from those contained in the forward-looking statements. In addition, forward-looking statements reflect Canoo's expectations, plans or forecasts of future events and views as of the date of this press release. Canoo anticipates that subsequent events and developments will cause Canoo's assessments to change.
However, while Canoo may elect to update these forward-looking statements at some point in the future, Canoo specifically disclaims any obligation to do so. These forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as representing Canoo's assessments as of any date subsequent to the date of this press release. Accordingly, undue reliance should not be placed upon the forward-looking statements.
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SOURCE Canoo | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/07/14/us-army-selected-canoos-multi-purpose-platform-analysis-amp-demonstration/ | 2022-07-14T13:49:21Z |
NEW YORK, April 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Chesapeake Asset Management (CAM), a privately owned, SEC Registered Investment Advisor founded in 1998, announced today that it has acquired Cherry Lane Capital, LLC. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
Cherry Lane Capital is a Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) with offices in New York City and Boca Raton specializing in investment management and financial & retirement planning. After an initial investment in 2020, CAM will purchase the remaining shares of Cherry Lane Capital, effective April 5th, 2022.
CAM serves as a long-term strategic partner to families, endowments, and foundations, offering a comprehensive investment solution that combines direct investing in public markets with capital allocation across a select number of outside managers. The firm's multi-decade experience in alternative asset classes is a particular point of differentiation. The acquisition of Cherry Lane Capital expands the firm's reach into the retail wealth management arena. Cherry Lane co-founders Jesse Christensen and Ryan Berman will join Chesapeake as partners to lead the firm's newly established Wealth Management division.
Chesapeake's Managing Member Gerasimos Efthimiatos notes, "Cherry Lane has enjoyed impressive growth since its inception and over the past two years I was able to see first-hand how Jesse and Ryan run their business, their commitment to clients, and their investment philosophy which emphasizes long-term wealth creation. I am looking forward to working with them as we build an investment firm with a comprehensive offering that addresses our clients' investment and financial planning needs."
Jesse Christensen and Ryan Berman left Morgan Stanley in 2017 to launch Cherry Lane Capital. Christensen adds, "Chesapeake's legacy speaks for itself and we are honored to be a part of the firm's next chapter. Importantly, we are excited for our clients who will benefit greatly from the enhanced resources and intellectual capital embedded in our new venture".
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SOURCE Chesapeake Asset Management, LLC | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/04/11/chesapeake-asset-management-expands-wealth-management-services-with-acquisition-cherry-lane-capital-new-york/ | 2022-04-11T21:29:19Z |
NEW YORK, May 19, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Levi & Korsinsky, LLP notifies investors in International Business Machines Corporation ("IBM" or the "Company") (NYSE: IBM) of a class action securities lawsuit.
CLASS DEFINITION: The lawsuit seeks to recover losses on behalf of IBM investors who were adversely affected by alleged securities fraud between April 4, 2017 and October 20, 2021. Follow the link below to get more information and be contacted by a member of our team:
IBM investors may also contact Joseph E. Levi, Esq. via email at jlevi@levikorsinsky.com or by telephone at (212) 363-7500.
CASE DETAILS: The filed complaint alleges that defendants made false statements and/or concealed that: (i) Strategic Imperatives Revenue and growth, CAMSS and CAMSS Components' revenue and growth, and the Company's Segments' revenue and growth were artificially inflated as a result of the wrongful reclassification of revenues from non-strategic to strategic to make those revenues eligible for treatment as Strategic Imperatives Revenue; (ii) the Company's present success and positive future growth prospects concerning its Strategic Imperative business strategy were being fueled by the wrongful reclassification of revenues from non-strategic to strategic to make those revenues eligible for treatment as Strategic Imperative Revenue and, as a result (iii) the Company misled the market by portraying the Company's Strategic Imperative's financial performance and future prospects more favorable than they actually were as a result of the wrongful reclassification of revenues from non-strategic to strategic to make those revenues eligible for treatment as Strategic Imperatives.
WHAT'S NEXT? If you suffered a loss in IBM during the relevant time frame, you have until June 6, 2022 to request that the Court appoint you as lead plaintiff. Your ability to share in any recovery doesn't require that you serve as a lead plaintiff.
NO COST TO YOU: If you are a class member, you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out-of-pocket costs or fees. There is no cost or obligation to participate.
WHY LEVI & KORSINSKY: Over the past 20 years, the team at Levi & Korsinsky has secured hundreds of millions of dollars for aggrieved shareholders and built a track record of winning high-stakes cases. Our firm has extensive expertise representing investors in complex securities litigation and a team of over 70 employees to serve our clients. For seven years in a row, Levi & Korsinsky has ranked in ISS Securities Class Action Services' Top 50 Report as one of the top securities litigation firms in the United States.
CONTACT:
Levi & Korsinsky, LLP
Joseph E. Levi, Esq.
Ed Korsinsky, Esq.
55 Broadway, 10th Floor
New York, NY 10006
jlevi@levikorsinsky.com
Tel: (212) 363-7500
Fax: (212) 363-7171
www.zlk.com
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SOURCE Levi & Korsinsky, LLP | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/05/19/ibm-lawsuit-alert-levi-amp-korsinsky-notifies-international-business-machines-corporation-investors-class-action-lawsuit-upcoming-deadline/ | 2022-05-19T18:36:29Z |
SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — Six people have died and 350,000 have been treated for a fever that has spread “explosively” across North Korea, state media said Friday, a day after the country acknowledged a COVID-19 outbreak for the first time in the pandemic.
North Korea likely doesn’t have sufficient COVID-19 tests and said it didn’t know the cause of the mass fevers. But a big coronavirus outbreak could be devastating in a country with a broken health care system and an unvaccinated, malnourished population.
The North’s Korean Central News Agency said of the 350,000 people who developed fevers since late April, 162,200 have recovered. It said 18,000 people were newly found with fever symptoms on Thursday alone, and 187,800 are being isolated for treatment.
One of the six people who died was infected with the omicron variant, KCNA said. But it wasn’t immediately clear how many of the total illnesses were COVID-19.
North Korea imposed a lockdown Thursday after acknowledging its first COVID-19 cases. Those reports said tests from an unspecified number of people came back positive for the omicron variant.
It’s unusual for isolated North Korea to admit to the outbreak of any infectious disease, let alone one as menacing as COVID-19, as it’s intensely proud and sensitive to outside perception about its self-described “socialist utopia.”
While North Korean leader Kim Jong Un had occasionally been candid about his worsening economy and other problems, he had repeatedly expressed confidence about pandemic response and wasn’t seen wearing a mask in public until Thursday.
State TV showed Kim wearing a mask as he entered what the broadcast described as the country’s headquarters of its pandemic response, which appeared to be Pyongyang’s landmark Koryo Hotel. He took off the mask and smoked a cigarette while talking with officials.
KCNA said Kim criticized officials for failing to prevent “a vulnerable point in the epidemic prevention system.” He said the outbreak was centered around the capital, Pyongyang, and stressed all work and residential units should be isolated from one another while residents should be provided every convenience during the lockdown.
“It is the most important challenge and supreme tasks facing our party to reverse the immediate public health crisis situation at an early date, restore the stability of epidemic prevention and protect the health and wellbeing of our people,” KCNA quoted Kim as saying.
The spread of the virus may have been accelerated by a massive military parade on April 25, where Kim gave a speech and showcased his army and weaponry in front of tens of thousands of people.
Cheong Seong-Chang, an analyst at South Korea’s Sejong Institute, said the pace of the fever’s spread suggests the crisis could last months and possibly into 2023, causing major disruption in the poorly equipped country.
According to the latest figures from the World Health Organization, North Korea reported to the U.N. agency that it tested 64,207 people for COVID-19 in 2020 through March 22 this year, a small number that may indicate insufficient tests for a population of 26 million.
North Korea also lacks vaccines, COVID-19 antiviral pills and has likely very few intensive care units to treat serious cases, which may cause higher death rates than other nations, experts say.
The North last year shunnedmillions of shots offered by the U.N.-backed COVAX distribution program, including doses of AstraZeneca and China’s Sinovac vaccines, possibly because of questions about their effectiveness and unwillingness to accept monitoring requirements. The country lacks the extreme-cold storage systems that are required for mRNA vaccines like Pfizer and Moderna, which have shown higher rates of preventing infection, serious illness and death even against newer variants like omicron.
The office of South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, who took office Tuesday, said his government is willing to provide medical supplies and hopes to talk to the North about specific plans. It said the North hasn’t yet asked for its help.
Cha Deok-cheol, a spokesperson in South Korea’s Unification Ministry, which handles inter-Korean affairs, said Seoul doesn’t immediately have an estimate on the number of vaccine doses it could offer to North Korea.
Inter-Korean relations have deteriorated over the past three years as larger nuclear negotiations remain stalled since they broke down over disagreements about U.S.-led sanctions and the North’s disarmament steps.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian said Beijing was ready to offer North Korea help but said he had no information about any such request being made. Asked whether China would be evacuating its nationals from North Korea, Zhao said Beijing will closely monitor the situation and maintain communication with the North to ensure the health and safety of Chinese citizens there.
North Korea’s claim of a perfect record in keeping out the virus for 2 1/2 years was widely doubted. But its extremely strict border closure, large-scale quarantines and propaganda that stressed anti-virus controls as a matter of “national existence” may have staved off a huge outbreak until now.
Hours after confirming the outbreak, North Korea launched three short-range ballistic missiles toward the sea in an apparent display of strength. It was the North’s 16th round of missile launches this year as it aims to pressure the United States to accept the idea of the country as a nuclear power. It’s also eager to negotiate sanctions relief and other concessions from a position of strength.
There are also indications that North Korea is restoring tunnels at a nuclear testing ground that was last active in 2017 in possible preparations to resume nuclear tests, which U.S. and South Korean officials say could happen as early as this month.
Citing North Korea’s shunning of the COVAX vaccines, White House press secretary Jen Psaki said the United States supported international aid efforts but doesn’t plan to share its vaccine supplies with the North.
“We do continue to support international efforts aimed at the provision of critical humanitarian aid to the most vulnerable North Koreans, and this is, of course, a broader part of the DPRK continuing to exploit its own citizens by not accepting this type of aid,” Psaki said Thursday in Washington, using the initials of North Korea’s formal name, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea.
“It’s not just vaccines. It’s also a range of humanitarian assistance that could very much help the people and the country and instead they divert resources to build their unlawful nuclear and ballistic missiles programs.”
___
Associated Press writer Darlene Superville in Washington contributed to this report.
___ This story corrects the name of a South Korean government spokesperson. | https://cw33.com/news/ap-top-headlines/n-korea-reports-6-deaths-after-admitting-covid-19-outbreak/ | 2022-05-13T11:43:26Z |
Emotional and mental health advocate, Kyli Santiago receives the June 2022 Literary Titan Gold Award for her poetry book, Healing Yesterday's Tears
ATLANTA, June 30, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Kyli Santiago's award-winning collection Healing Yesterday's Tears aims to raise awareness and show women that by using the healing power of poetry, they can overcome emotional trauma and reclaim their strength.
No stranger to the struggles of womanhood, the poet passionately states, "From the time we're little girls, women are taught to adhere to societal conditions that program us to stay small, weak, and submissive. This horrible state of mind leaves us predisposed to a vicious cycle of low self-esteem and low self-worth. My mission is to help women everywhere break the invisible chains that bond them and use poetry to find their voices, value their worth, and reclaim their power."
Creatively rich and introspective, Healing Yesterday's Tears addresses painful topics like depression, emotional abuse, domestic violence, rape, low self-worth, and single motherhood, while skillfully interweaving themes of self-love, empowerment, inner strength, and healing. This powerful book is an invaluable self-esteem building resource that no woman braving this challenging world should be without!
"Santiago always leaves readers feeling strengthened and emboldened to meet obstacles head-on. I highly recommend Santiago's work to anyone looking for the inspiration to love themselves again." – Literary Titan
"Being in abusive relationships destroys one's self-esteem. Through these poems, Kyli aims to help [women] discover self-love and encourages them to practice self-preservation. If you're looking for some moving introspective poetry to delve into, I highly recommend Healing Yesterday's Tears." – Pikasho Deka, Readers' Favorite
"Use the words of this book to motivate you to keep moving forward. Love yourself. Get rid of the negative and the toxic. Realize your worth." - Philip Van Heusen, Readers' Favorite
Winner of the June 2022 Literary Titan Gold Book Award Healing Yesterday's Tears is available in Paperback and eBook on Amazon, and wherever books are sold.
To learn more, visit: https://kylisantiago.com/
ABOUT THE AUTHOR Kyli Santiago is a poet, performer, and emotional wellbeing and mental health advocate. Using poetry, performance, and alternative healing techniques, she healed herself from depression without conventional medicine. For details about her mission to raise awareness about the healing power of poetry, visit: https://healingpowerofpoetry.org.
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SOURCE Kyli Santiago Inc | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/06/30/2022-literary-titan-gold-book-award-winner-empowers-women-find-their-voice/ | 2022-06-30T17:03:55Z |
Advocates worry other rights at risk if SCOTUS overturns Roe v. Wade
WASHINGTON (AP) - Little doubt remains about what the Supreme Court plans to do with Roe v. Wade. But uncertainty abounds about ripple effects as the court nears a final opinion expected to overturn the landmark 1973 case that created a nationwide right to abortion.
A leaked first draft of the majority opinion in the case, authenticated Tuesday by the Supreme Court, suggests that a majority of justices are poised to toss out Roe. The draft’s provocative rhetoric also is generating concern that LGTBQ advances and other matters based on the right to privacy could be vulnerable in a newly hostile political environment.
“This is about a lot more than abortion,” President Joe Biden warned Wednesday, saying the court’s draft opinion could jeopardize same-sex marriage, access to contraception and LGBTQ rights.
“What are the next things that are going to be attacked? Because this MAGA crowd is really the most extreme political organization that’s existed in recent American history,” Biden said.
Court opinions can change in ways big and small throughout the drafting process. So while the eventual ruling in the abortion case appears all but assured, the written rationale — and its implications — may still be a hotly debated subject inside the court’s private chambers.
The draft’s potentially sweeping impact could be tempered by the other justices, or it could emerge largely unchanged — with what advocates and Biden say could bring even more severe consequences.
The draft opinion, written by Justice Samuel Alito, a member of the court’s 6-3 conservative majority, argues that unenumerated constitutional rights — those not explicitly mentioned in the document — must be “deeply rooted in the Nation’s history and traditions.” And it says abortion doesn’t meet that standard.
Biden and others are sounding alarms that the same logic could be used to toss out other protections.
The president said he believed the conservative justices on today’s court would, like failed Supreme Court nominee Robert Bork in 1987, disagree with the court’s ruling in Griswold v. Connecticut, which said that a right to privacy exists that bars states from interfering in married couples’ right to buy and use contraceptives.
Cases like Lawrence v. Texas, which struck down sodomy laws criminalizing same-sex intimacy, and Obergefell v. Hodges, which legalized gay marriage, are based at least in part on that same right to privacy.
Alito, in the draft opinion, explicitly states that the court is only targeting the right to abortion, not those other matters.
“We emphasize that our decision concerns the constitutional right to abortion and no other right,” the draft states. “Nothing in this opinion should be understood to cast doubt on precedents that do not concern abortion.”
Obergefell is different from Roe in that hundreds of thousands of same-sex couples have relied on it to wed and created legal bonds, like shared property, inheritance rights and “settled expectations about the future,” said Teresa Collett, a professor at the University of St. Thomas School of Law and director of its Prolife Center.
Courts are usually loath to undo that kind of precedent. It stands in contrast to abortion, which is usually “a response to unplanned circumstances,” Collett said.
Obergefell, moreover, relies on the Constitution’s Equal Protection Clause as well as the right to privacy.
The current Supreme Court abortion case specifically concerns a Mississippi law that bans abortion after 15 weeks — before the “viability” standard set in the 1992 case Planned Parenthood v. Casey, which itself moved beyond Roe’s initial trimester framework for regulating abortion.
At arguments in December, all six conservative justices signaled they would uphold the Mississippi law, and five asked questions suggesting they supported overturning the right to abortion nationwide, leaving the issue up to individual states.
Only Chief Justice John Roberts seemed prepared to take the smaller step of upholding the 15-week ban, in essence overturning the court’s ruling in Casey, while leaving in place the right to an abortion in Roe.
Until now, the court has allowed states to regulate but not ban abortion before the point of viability, around 24 weeks. The court’s three liberal justices appeared certain to be in dissent.
Still, the language and tone Alito uses overall could encourage more challenges, said Jason Pierceson, professor of political science at the University of Illinois, Springfield. “If the right to privacy is deconstructed or is hollowed out, or is minimized, then those cases in particular have less standing,” Pierceson said.
A challenge to same-sex marriage could come before the high court on religious liberty grounds, for example, such as someone arguing their religious faith prevents them from recognizing same-sex marriage. Cases along those lines have been mostly about exceptions to anti-discrimination laws so far, Pierceson said, “but one could see potentially a broadening of the argument to the fact that maybe same-sex marriage laws are unconstitutional in the first place.”
LGBTQ rights have made rapid progress over the past decade, and public opinion overall has become much more supportive. But especially over the past year there has been a wave of bills in state legislatures aimed at transgender youth sports and healthcare, as well as talking about LGBTQ issues in certain classrooms. Backers of those bills generally argue they’re needed to protect kids and the rights of parents.
Against that backdrop, the draft opinion, if finalized, could “send up a flare” to conservative activists, said Sharon McGowan, legal director at Lambda Legal.
“Overturning Roe will be most dangerous because of the signal it will send lower courts to disregard all the other precedents that exist,” she said.
“It’s starting with abortion. It’s not going to end with abortion,” said Mini Timmaraju, the president of NARAL Pro-Choice America. “So everyone needs to be very vigilant.”
Critics could also take a page from the anti-abortion playbook, which involved multiple measures over the decades that tackled the issue from different angles, imposed limits rather than sweeping prohibitions and employed unusual strategies like the civil-enforcement mechanism that’s already essentially allowed Texas to ban abortion, said Alison Gash, a professor at the University of Oregon.
“It opens the door for all sorts of stuff that I think we’re probably going to see now that we’ve got a court that seems willing to support that kind of creativity,” she said. “It’s all speculation, but it seems perfectly plausible for us to see Republican experimentation on a whole bunch of policies that could be affected by this.”
Donna Lieberman, executive director of the New York Civil Liberties Union, said that “what comes through loud and clear in the draft” is that the agenda “is not just to get rid of abortion but to ban contraception, to eliminate all the important progress that we’ve made about LGBTQ rights, about the rights of trans children, and also about racial equality.”
___
Associated Press writer Chris Megerian in Washington contributed to this report.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | https://www.wibw.com/2022/05/05/advocates-worry-other-rights-risk-if-scotus-overturns-roe-v-wade/ | 2022-05-05T11:47:54Z |
NEW YORK, Aug. 31, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Neuberger Berman Real Estate Securities Income Fund Inc. (NYSE American: NRO) (the "Fund") has announced a distribution declaration of $0.0312 per share of common stock. The distribution announced today is payable on September 30, 2022, has a record date of September 15, 2022 and has an ex-date of September 14, 2022.
Under its level distribution policy, the Fund anticipates that it will make regular monthly distributions, subject to market conditions, of $0.0312 per share of common stock, unless further action is taken to determine another amount. There is no assurance that the Fund will always be able to pay a distribution of any particular amount, or that a distribution will consist of only net investment income. The Fund's ability to maintain its current distribution rate will depend on a number of factors, including the amount and stability of income received from its investments, availability of capital gains, the amount of leverage employed by the Fund, the cost of leverage and the level of other Fund fees and expenses.
The distribution announced today, as well as future distributions, may consist of net investment income, net realized capital gains and return of capital. In compliance with Section 19 of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, a notice would be provided for any distribution that does not consist solely of net investment income. The notice would be for informational purposes and not for tax reporting purposes, and would disclose, among other things, estimated portions of the distribution, if any, consisting of net investment income, capital gains and return of capital. The final determination of the source and tax characteristics of all distributions paid in 2022 will be made after the end of the year.
Neuberger Berman, founded in 1939, is a private, independent, employee-owned investment manager. The firm manages a range of strategies—including equity, fixed income, quantitative and multi-asset class, private equity, real estate and hedge funds—on behalf of institutions, advisors and individual investors globally. With offices in 25 countries, Neuberger Berman's diverse team has over 2,500 professionals. For eight consecutive years, the company has been named first or second in Pensions & Investments Best Places to Work in Money Management survey (among those with 1,000 employees or more). In 2020, the PRI named Neuberger Berman a Leader, a designation awarded to fewer than 1% of investment firms for excellence in Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) practices. The PRI also awarded Neuberger Berman an A+ in every eligible category for our approach to ESG integration across asset classes. The firm manages $418 billion in client assets as of June 30, 2022. For more information, please visit our website at www.nb.com.
Statements made in this release that look forward in time involve risks and uncertainties. Such risks and uncertainties include, without limitation, the adverse effect from a decline in the securities markets or a decline in the Fund's performance, a general downturn in the economy, competition from other closed end investment companies, changes in government policy or regulation, inability of the Fund's investment adviser to attract or retain key employees, inability of the Fund to implement its investment strategy, inability of the Fund to manage rapid expansion and unforeseen costs and other effects related to legal proceedings or investigations of governmental and self-regulatory organizations.
Contact:
Neuberger Berman Investment Advisers LLC
Investor Information
(877) 461-1899
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SOURCE Neuberger Berman | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/08/31/neuberger-berman-real-estate-securities-income-fund-announces-monthly-distribution/ | 2022-08-31T21:03:29Z |
ST. PAUL, Minn., June 14, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Maxwell Healthcare Associates (MHA), the industries' leading post-acute consulting firm is partnering with nVoq to help post-acute care providers save time and optimize patient care through medically relevant speech recognition technology.
nVoq provides a HIPAA and PCI-DSS compliant, cloud-based speech recognition platform supporting a wide variety of healthcare delivery scenarios including post-acute care with an emphasis on home healthcare and hospice. nVoq's speech recognition solutions convert speech to text in seconds and are highly accurate for most medical specialties. Its solutions work seamlessly with most EHRs, CRMs, or business applications without the need for integration.
MHA's reach and influence within the post-acute space is expansive, and their unique ability to connect industry partners with strategic solutions continues as they ally with nVoq. With MHA's organizational expertise and nVoq's advanced solution, the post-acute space will have the necessary tools to improve end-of-life care.
According to CEO of MHA, Jennifer Maxwell, MHA is elated to partner with nVoq in 2022. "We're thrilled to align our joint initiatives with nVoq and can't wait to see the opportunities that await us. nVoq is an outstanding organization that enhances the level of communication with patients in the post-acute setting. At the end of the day, we're invested in providing our customers tools that will improve care at their facilities," said Maxwell.
Debbi Gillotti, Chief Operating Officer at nVoq, shares in the enthusiasm and believes nVoq's partnership with MHA will make a tangible difference in the lives of countless front-line care providers. "We are pleased to be MHA's preferred speech recognition partner. We have a shared vision for positively impacting the work/life balance of burned-out clinicians through faster, more intuitive documentation workflows. Together MHA and nVoq can equip home health, hospice, and palliative care agencies with an opportunity to personalize care, improve patient experience, and drive better business outcomes."
nVoq Incorporated, headquartered in Boulder, CO, provides HIPAA-compliant, SaaS-based speech recognition to the healthcare industry, with a strategic emphasis on the post-acute care segment. nVoq's platform supports both mobile and office-based clinicians in capturing patient narratives at the post of care to expediate high-quality documentation, simplify coding, and streamline reimbursement. For more information, visit https://sayit.nvoq.com/
Maxwell Healthcare Associates boasts an average of 20 years of experience in the post-acute space and has a pulse on what's relevant now in the industry. MHA can work with home health and hospice agencies to strategize, optimize and transform agencies across the nation. For more information, visit https://www.maxwellhealthcareassociates.com/
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SOURCE Maxwell Healthcare Associates | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/06/14/maxwell-healthcare-associates-nvoq-partner-support-post-acute-providers/ | 2022-06-14T18:07:30Z |
Dallas police believe 3 recent shootings at Asian-owned businesses may be connected and hate-motivated
By Jamiel Lynch and Christina Maxouris, CNN
Dallas police believe three recent shootings at Asian-run businesses in the area may be connected, and may be hate-motivated, Chief Edgardo Garcia said in a Friday news conference.
The latest shooting took place on Wednesday at a Korean-owned hair salon, police said. At the time, authorities said a suspect ran into the business, shouted something and began shooting. Three women suffered non-life-threatening injuries.
“At that time in the investigation, we did not have any indication that this crime was hate-motivated. As of this afternoon, that has changed,” the chief said Friday.
After reviewing two other incidents, police now believe there’s a connection, partly because of the suspect’s vehicle, the chief said.
In Wednesday’s shooting, a witness described the suspect running back to a red, older-style minivan and speeding away, police said.
A day earlier, a suspect in a burgundy van or car drove by and shot into an Asian-run business, police said. Three people were in the building but were not injured.
And roughly a month before those incidents, on April 2, a vehicle drove past a strip mall of Asian-run businesses in what witnesses described as a red minivan, police said.
Dallas police reached out to partners including the FBI “out of an abundance of caution,” to make them aware of their findings, and have also reached out to other Texas agencies to see if there may have been any other similar incidents, Garcia said Friday.
“To safeguard our community, we will be utilizing camera trailers in certain areas and every patrol station has been advised to increase visibility patrols in the areas of our Asian community,” Garcia said. “Most important, we are turning to every resident of the city of Dallas to keep an eye out and safeguard our city. Hate has no place here.”
Authorities are also asking for the community’s help in identifying the suspect.
So far, Dallas police have described the suspect in Wednesday’s shooting as “a Black male approximately 5’7″ to 5’10”, with a thin build, curly medium-length hair and a connecting beard.”
“We need to get this person in custody,” the chief said. “We need our community’s help.”
The-CNN-Wire
™ & © 2022 Cable News Network, Inc., a WarnerMedia Company. All rights reserved.
CNN’s Andy Rose contributed to this report. | https://localnews8.com/news/national-world/cnn-national/2022/05/13/dallas-police-believe-3-recent-shootings-at-asian-owned-businesses-may-be-connected-and-hate-motivated/ | 2022-05-14T04:49:32Z |
People who suffer from chronic pain may find small-to-moderate pain relief for the short-term when using certain prescription cannabis products with higher THC to CBD levels, but there are some worrisome side effects, according to new research.
Tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, is the chemical compound in the marijuana plant that makes you high. Cannabidiol, or CBD, is the second most prevalent active chemical in cannabis, but it does not make you high. Both have been associated with pain relief.
"The findings are in line with what we know," said Yasmin Hurd, a professor of pharmacological sciences, neuroscience and psychiatry at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York City. She was not involved with the study.
"There is some indication of weak-to-moderate pain relief depending on the THC/CBD ratio, but there is an increase of side effects such as dizziness and sedation," said Hurd, who is the director of the Addiction Institute at Mount Sinai.
However, no such benefits were found from any over-the-counter THC or CBD extracts from the whole marijuana plant.
"Unfortunately, the available evidence is largely inconclusive, due to the small number of studies and the variation in cannabinoid products among these studies," said Jodi Gilman, an associate professor at the Center for Addiction Medicine at Harvard Medical School who was not involved with the study.
"Large, placebo-controlled trials in hundreds of patients who are all taking the same exact product at the same doses are needed to understand the benefits and risks of cannabis for chronic pain," Gilman added.
No benefit from nonprescription extracts
The review analyzed 25 clinical trials and observational studies involving nearly 15,000 people. The prescription drugs dronabinol, made of pure synthetic THC, and nabilone, which is nearly pure THC, were linked to moderate improvements in pain relief, but an increased risk of drowsiness and dizziness, researchers found.
Nabiximols, a drug with comparable amounts of THC and CBD designed to be sprayed under the tongue, improved pain relief and function to a smaller degree but also carried a risk for sedation, dizziness and nausea, according to the study published Monday in the Annals of Internal Medicine. Nabiximols is a prescription drug that is not available in the United States.
Those side effects caused some patients to stop using the products, even though they "are also common side effects of other pain medications," Gilman said.
Patients using cannabinoids for pain should be "closely monitored by their doctors in order to determine whether these products are helpful," Gilman said, and determine if any benefit outweighs potential side effects.
"While the amount of pain relief is not substantial, individuals suffering from chronic pain might think that it is worth the risk. Clearly, CBD has a much greater safety profile than THC so it is important that high-THC products be carefully monitored," Hurd said.
"It is critical that patients consider conventional clinically approved products before trying cannabis," she said. "Also, they have to be extremely careful regarding what cannabis products they use since there are a lot of products that do not have good quality control and might not even contain the amount of THC or CBD they think based on the packaging."
In addition, Hurd warned, "it is not suitable to smoke 'recreational' cannabis as medicine." Just like tobacco, smoking weed can damage the lungs and increase the risk of respiratory diseases. Heavy cannabis use has been associated with increased risk of heart attacks, she said.
The-CNN-Wire
™ & © 2022 Cable News Network, Inc., a WarnerMedia Company. All rights reserved. | https://www.albanyherald.com/features/health/prescription-cannabis-products-with-more-thc-may-ease-chronic-pain-at-least-a-little-study/article_9ed320f2-2c23-5e85-b04a-f104d412bf9c.html | 2022-06-08T11:03:00Z |
Andersen blanks Canadiens 4-0 as Hurricanes stay hot
By BOB SUTTON
Associated Press
RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) — Frederik Andersen made 32 saves for his fourth shutout of the season, Andrei Svechnikov scored twice and the Carolina Hurricanes dominated the Montreal Canadiens 4-0. Sebastian Aho and Teuvo Teravainen each had a goal and an assist as the Hurricanes stretched their points streak to six games with their third win in the last four outings. Svechnikov’s second goal went into an empty net. Jake Allen stopped 40 shots for Montreal, which has won just once in its last six games. | https://localnews8.com/sports/ap-national-sports/2022/03/31/andersen-blanks-canadiens-4-0-as-hurricanes-stay-hot/ | 2022-04-01T04:18:42Z |
ROCKVILLE, Md., Aug. 16, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Maryland Governor Larry Hogan, an outspoken leader throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, toured the headquarters of Maxim Biomedical, an important United States based innovator and manufacturer of rapid antigen home tests for COVID-19. The governor was accompanied by Maryland Secretary of Commerce R. Michael Gill and senior members of both staffs. MaximBio manufactures the ClearDetect™ COVID-19 Antigen Home Test, a rapid result, EUA authorized over-the-counter COVID-19 test.
"Maxim Biomedical is doing important, life-saving work in Rockville, and I enjoyed the opportunity to tour their state-of-the-art facility," said Governor Hogan. "As the producer of one of the few American-made COVID-19 rapid antigen tests, MaximBio will be a critical partner as Maryland maintains a state of readiness for any future variants and waves."
Jonathan Maa, COO of MaximBio said, "As a women and minority-owned small business, we are proud to be one of a select few American companies with an FDA Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for an over-the-counter, home-use rapid antigen test for COVID-19. We are exceedingly proud to be building our product exclusively here in the United States, helping to strengthen manufacturing in America and employing hundreds of Americans in the process."
MaximBio, who only received their EUA in January, recently successfully fulfilled a multi-million test production contract for the United States Department of Defense, receiving a high rating by the department for contract performance and delivery.
While at Maxim Bio Governor Hogan presented Maxim Bio with the Governor's Citation recognizing the "company's commitment to enhancing global health through the development and manufacturing of trusted diagnostic solutions."
About Maxim Biomedical Inc.
Headquartered in Rockville, MD, Maxim Biomedical is a leading diagnostic healthcare company providing innovative solutions through the development and manufacture of trusted testing solutions. Our mission is to create diagnostic products that are affordable, accessible, and enable actionable testing to improve patient outcomes around the globe.
For more information, visit maximbio.com
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SOURCE Maxim Biomedical, Inc. | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/08/16/maryland-governor-larry-hogan-tours-maximbios-covid-19-rapid-antigen-test-manufacturing-facility/ | 2022-08-16T16:17:24Z |
Tony Awards has stars — and those usually far from spotlight
NEW YORK (AP) — Darren Criss’ favorite night of the year has arrived. It’s the Tony Awards. “I’ll never shut up about the Tonys. I love the Tonys,” he says.
Criss will not only be watching the Tonys on Sunday, he’ll also be working. He’s co-host with Julianne Hough of a one-hour pre-Tony celebration at Radio City Music Hall, and he’s even written an original song about the show that he’ll perform, revealing “a bit of my nerdy proclivities.”
Criss and Hough will be handing out creative arts Tonys on Paramount+ and then pass hosting duties to Ariana DeBose for the main three-hour telecast on CBS from the same stage, live coast to coast for the first time.
The season — with 34 new productions — represents a full return to theaters after nearly two years of a pandemic-mandated shutdown. At the last Tonys nine months ago, the winners were pulled from just 18 eligible plays and musicals, and many of the competitive categories were depleted.
DeBose, the Tony-nominated theater veteran and freshly minted Oscar winner for “West Side Story,” said Broadway is due for a party.
“I feel like if there was ever the time, the time is now,” she said. “I think it’s a triumph to have simply made it to this point, to have made art and to have a show.”
The telecast will have performances from this year’s Tony Award-nominated musicals, including “A Strange Loop,” “Company,” “Girl from the North Country,” “MJ,” “Mr. Saturday Night,” “Music Man,” “Paradise Square” and “Six.” The original cast members of the 2007 Tony-winning musical “Spring Awakening” will also reteam and perform.
“A Strange Loop,” a theater meta-journey about a playwright writing a musical, goes into the show with a leading 11 Tony nominations. Right behind with 10 nominations each is “MJ,” a bio musical of the King of Pop stuffed with his biggest hits, and “Paradise Square,” a musical about Irish immigrants and Black Americans jostling to survive in New York City around the time of the Civil War.
The best actress in a musical frontrunners are Sharon D Clarke from the revival of “Caroline, or Change” and Joaquina Kalukango of “Paradise Square.” The best actor in a musical may come down to Jaquel Spivey from “A Strange Loop” versus Myles Frost as the King of Pop in “MJ the Musical.”
“The Lehman Trilogy,” Stefano Massini’s play spanning 150 years about what led to the collapse of financial giant Lehman Brothers, is the leading best new play contender, while David Morse in a revival of Paula Vogel’s “How I Learned to Drive” is the leading contender as best actor in a play. His co-star, Mary-Louise Parker, could become the first actor to receive consecutive Tonys for best actress in a play.
Producers are once again expanding the show thanks to streaming partner Paramount+, adding an extra hour before the three-hour main awards telecast to celebrate the creative Tony nominees in such categories as sound design and lighting. Often in the past, those acceptances were recorded earlier and shoe-horned into the telecast.
Criss and Hough — who each had roles this spring on Broadway — are hosting that first hour, which will be aired exclusively on the streaming network.
“I think they’ve recognized that a lot of the moments that have not made it to the public view were worth showing and worth presenting and worth giving the people who had these really amazing moments a bit of acknowledgment and recognition,” said Criss, who stars in a revival of David Mamet’s “American Buffalo.”
Hough, who made her Broadway debut with a role in the woman-only ensemble of the political comedy “POTUS,” has been impressed by the talent level of her peers.
“I always look at Broadway performers and creatives as like artistic athletes, because the ability and the tenacity and the discipline and the hard work and everything that’s put into it — as well as the artistry — is just beyond,” the “Dancing with the Stars” veteran said.
___
Mark Kennedy is at http://twitter.com/KennedyTwits
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | https://www.kxii.com/2022/06/12/tony-awards-has-stars-those-usually-far-spotlight/ | 2022-06-12T12:01:11Z |
Love Crunch® Debuts Organic Dark Chocolate and Hazelnut Butter Granola
RICHMOND, BC, July 25, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Beloved organic granola and snack brand Love Crunch, is thrilled to announce the debut of its latest iconic indulgence since 2020, Organic Dark Chocolate and Hazelnut Butter Granola.
A match made in snacking heaven, Love Crunch Organic Dark Chocolate and Hazelnut Butter Granola marries the beloved taste of a classic hazelnut spread with a healthy, satisfying crunch - a deliciously dynamic duo that will keep you coming back for more.
Love Crunch's latest decadent granola clusters are coated with sustainably sourced organic hazelnut butter from Turkey and mixed with Fairtrade Italian dark chocolate chunks. Made with 12g of whole grains and only 7g of sugar per serving, Love Crunch Organic Dark Chocolate and Hazelnut Butter Granola is sold in a resealable pouch, offering the perfect blend for all day-snacking, be it a morning on-the- go or elevating an indulgent late-night dessert.
Aligned with the Nature's Path Organic family of brands uncompromising commitment to encouraging consumers to Eat True Organic Dark Chocolate and Hazelnut Butter Granola - like all Love Crunch products - is USDA organic and Non-GMO Project Verified, made with only the most wholesome ingredients.
"At Love Crunch, we pride ourselves in combining the perfect taste pairings to deliver an unforgettable snacking experience," says Arjan Stephens, co-creator of Love Crunch "with everything we do, we are inspired first and foremost by love. Love for people, love for the planet and a love for creating high-quality, organic products that give back. We are so excited to continue sharing our signature "love at first bite" feeling through the launch of our Organic Dark Chocolate & Hazelnut Butter Granola."
All Love Crunch products are made with passion and purpose in mind. Love Crunch donates a minimum of $2 million worth of food every year to food banks in North America through Nature's Path's Bite4Bite Program.
Love Crunch Organic Dark Chocolate and Hazelnut Butter Granola will officially launch on July 25, 2022 and be available for purchase in select Kroger and Target stores, and online at naturespath.com.
About Love Crunch
Love Crunch brings you heart-warming indulgence with a delicious organic taste. Each Love Crunch granola and cereal is made with carefully sourced, premium and certified-organic ingredients. Each bite is filled with the most irresistibly delicious flavors, from rich Italian dark chocolate, creamy peanut butter, sweet strawberries, tangy raspberries, and tropical coconut. Inspired by their love, Arjan and Rimjhim, founders of Love Crunch, blended all their favorite decadent and indulgent ingredients together to create an extraordinarily wonderful tasting granola as a wedding favor. Their guests loved it - and Love Crunch was born. Every Love Crunch product helps give something back to the world through the Bite4Bite program, where Love Crunch donates a minimum of $2 million worth of food every year to food banks in North America.
To learn more about Love Crunch, visit www.naturespath.com/en-us/love-crunch/ or follow on social media:
- Instagram: @lovecrunchorganic
- Facebook: Love Crunch Organic
- Twitter: @lovecrunchorg
- TikTok: @lovecrunchorganic
ABOUT NATURE'S PATH FOODS
Nature's Path Organic Foods is North America's largest organic breakfast and snack food company and produces USDA and Canadian Certified Organic and Non-GMO Project Verified breakfast and snack foods sold in grocery and natural food stores in over 50 countries around the world. Committed to the triple bottom line - socially responsible, environmentally sustainable and financially viable - Nature's Path works diligently to support communities and champion the cause of people and planet. Brands include Nature's Path®, Love Crunch®, Qi'a®, Que Pasa®, Flax Plus® and EnviroKidz®. Founded in 1985, Nature's Path is headquartered in Richmond, British Columbia and employs hundreds of valued team members at its four facilities in Canada and the United States.
To learn more about Nature's Path, visit their website at www.naturespath.com or follow them on social media:
- Instagram: @NaturesPathOrganic
- Facebook: Nature's Path Organic
- Twitter: @NaturesPath
- TikTok: @Naturespathorganic
PRESS CONTACT:
SEQUEL
SHEILA SMITH
ssmith@sequel-inc.com
203-917-8644
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SOURCE Nature’s Path | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/07/25/you-had-us-hazelnut/ | 2022-07-25T14:41:18Z |
Secures All Required State Approvals to Support Expansion of Fiber-Based Internet Investment Across Its Multistate Territory
Apollo/Lumen Transaction on Track to Close in Early Fourth Quarter 2022
CHARLOTTE, N.C., June 30, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Brightspeed today announced that it has now secured all necessary state-required regulatory approvals in the 20 states that comprise its operating footprint, marking a significant milestone as the company readies for day one operations.
Brightspeed plans to invest more than $2 billion to build a network that will bring faster, more reliable Internet and Wi-Fi to communities throughout the Midwest, Southeast, and certain parts of Pennsylvania and New Jersey. The company's fiber optics transformation is expected to reach up to 3 million homes and businesses over the next five years, including in many rural and suburban locations where fiber and advanced technology have not historically been deployed.
Brightspeed will initially be comprised of the incumbent local exchange carrier (ILEC) assets and associated operations of Lumen Technologies (NYSE: LUMN), which are the subject of a pending acquisition by Apollo-managed funds (NYSE: APO). The parties are working to obtain final regulatory approval from the FCC in the third quarter of this year, and to close the transaction in early fourth quarter.
"This is an incredibly exciting and historic moment for our new company," said Tom Dailey, Vice President of Public Policy and Government Affairs for Brightspeed. "These approvals are tangible affirmation of the importance of closing the digital divide in communities across the country, and of the value Brightspeed can bring toward achieving this goal. We believe all customers should have access to the best broadband possible, whether they connect to our legacy copper network or to our new fiber platform. We are grateful to the state regulators and to our Lumen counterparts who worked diligently with us over these last few months to complete these approvals."
Brightspeed's next-generation FTTP architecture is being engineered to help accelerate deployment and market availability. The company is utilizing the latest technology innovations, including XGS-PON, which is capable of symmetrical internet speeds exceeding 1Gbps, and Wi-Fi 6 for optimal performance and coverage to support the multitude of connected devices within homes and businesses.
"While we need final FCC approval before we can bring customers onto our network, our Strategy and Operations teams have been working nonstop on the design, construction, and supply chain preparations necessary to hit the ground running on day one," Dailey added. "We will be well-equipped to quickly deliver on our mission to bring fast, reliable Internet and Wi-Fi to more homes and businesses."
For more information about Brightspeed, please visit the company's website, www.brightspeed.com.
About Brightspeed
Headquartered in Charlotte, N.C. and expected to have assets and associated operations in 20 states, Brightspeed will provide broadband and telecommunications services through a network platform capable of serving more than 6 million homes and businesses. The company aims to bridge the digital divide by deploying a state-of-the-art fiber network and a customer experience that makes staying connected simple and seamless. For more information about Brightspeed, please visit the company's website, www.brightspeed.com.
Media
Erik Carlson
Joele Frank, Wilkinson Brimmer Katcher
(212) 355-4449
pr@brightspeed.com
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SOURCE Brightspeed | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/06/30/brightspeed-achieves-major-regulatory-milestone-its-operational-readiness-preparations/ | 2022-06-30T17:05:33Z |
TAMPA, Fla., May 27, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Smart Meter, continues to lead the way in remote blood glucose monitoring for diabetes because of its ease of use and its superior cellular-enabled devices that deliver immediate, robust data. The iGlucose® from Smart Meter can provide patients and providers with an easy and effective way to manage diabetes on a regular basis.
According to the CDC, more than 37 million Americans have Diabetes (or about 1 in 10), and approximately 90-95% of them have type 2 diabetes2. While diabetes can be managed, it must be monitored and effectively controlled or it can have a negative impact on individual patients and puts a strain on the entire healthcare system. In fact, the American Diabetes Association (ADA) estimates the cost of diagnosed diabetes in America at $327 billion3.
In the past couple of years, providers and payers have realized the significant benefits of remote patient monitoring – which allows them to receive patients' blood glucose readings between visits directly from the patients' meter. Instead of only seeing a snapshot of their diabetes patients' health and readings that they remember to record or upload, physicians can make recommendations based on accurate and real-time data as needed.
"The best part of remote patient monitoring is there are options available which add no additional effort for patients and an uninterrupted experience for providers," explained Dr. Bill Lewis, a national telemedicine consultant and prior Chair of the Telemedicine Accreditation Committee. "The technology is available but is vastly underutilized. We use cellular technology throughout the day for social interaction and games, let's put it to use to improve the lives of those living with diabetes."
The iGlucose was first introduced by Smart Meter in 2016 and we have continued to improve its functionality and the data since. Now the iGlucose utilizes 4/5G Cellular connectivity via AT&T's IoT fast and secure network to deliver real-time results.
1 Survey conducted by Smart Meter collected data from more than 200 consumers with type 2 diabetes who test their blood sugars at least once per day. For full survey findings, visit: https://smartmeterrpm.com/wp-content/uploads/Smart-Meter-National-Diabetes-Month-Survey.pdf
Now serving more than 100,000 patients, Smart Meter is the leading supplier of cellular-enabled virtual care technologies that include the iGlucose®, iBloodPressure®, iPulseOx®, iScale®, and SmartRPM™ cloud platform, as well as data, and services. Smart Meter's remote patient monitoring solutions are recognized as the standard for the RPM industry and are regarded for their high patient retention and satisfaction. The unique combination of reliable health data, patient-friendly devices, and platform integrations enable and enhance RPM, CCM, Employee Wellness, Population Health, and Telehealth programs for more than 300 RPM distribution partners across the United States. For more information, visit SmartMeterRPM.com
Smart Meter, LLC
5501 W. Waters Ave., Suite 401
Tampa, FL 33602
813-773-4080
Media Contact
Keith Tolbert
keith.tolbert@iglucose.com
336-509-8024
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SOURCE Smart Meter, LLC | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/05/27/thirty-five-percent-persons-with-type-2-diabetes-say-remote-patient-monitoring-rpm-program-would-help-them-better-manage-their-health1/ | 2022-05-27T16:13:42Z |
Non-invasive Body Sculpting Technology Duo Recognized As Best Beauty Innovation
BRISBANE, Calif., April 7, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- CUTERA, INC, a leading provider of laser and energy-based aesthetic and dermatological solutions, proudly announces that truBody, the body shaping treatment that pairs truSculpt iD™ and truSculpt flex™ has been named the NewBeauty Award winner for Best Beauty Innovation. truBody couples these technologies to reduce fat and build muscle while delivering a personalized and effective treatment experience to sculpt, tone and help boost body confidence.
The Awards Showcase, announced in the NewBeauty Spring 2022 issue, features the top treatments and products across various health, wellness, and beauty categories. Winners are chosen through rigorous testing by industry experts, NewBeauty editors, and readers.
truSculpt iD and truSculpt flex deliver long-lasting results on their own, which are optimized when done synergistically as truBody. In just 15-minutes truSculpt iD delivers an average of 24% reduction in fat1,2, while each truSculpt flex treatment session is the equivalent of doing 54,000 crunches. truBody was also recognized by NewBeauty as one of the aesthetic industry's most inclusive treatments as each treatment can be performed on all skin types without BMI restrictions.
"We are honored to receive this accolade. Being recognized by NewBeauty two years in a row demonstrates Cutera's commitment to develop leading technologies that help ensure the success of providers, while promoting high patient satisfaction," shares Dave Mowry, CEO, Cutera Inc.
With the increase in travel and leisure predicted to rise in 2022 the demand for quick non-invasive aesthetic treatments is also expected to surge3, making truBody an ideal solution for a universal patient population. "With the reduced treatment time of 15 minutes, it's now possible to do a full truBody session in half an hour," shares the NewBeauty editorial team.
"In my opinion, the top technology to eliminate stubborn, unwanted fat and strengthen and tone muscles, is truBody by Cutera, says Dr. Jeffrey Fromowitz, Dermatology of Boca. Having state-of-the-art technology like truBody has allowed us to take a comprehensive approach to non-invasive body contouring; recognizing that there are two unique and distinct issues at play. In this way, I can offer my patients a full body sculpting solution."
Find out more about truBody by visiting www.trusculpt.com.
ABOUT NEWBEAUTY
NewBeauty, the authority on all things beauty, educates readers on the latest options for skin, face, hair, body and well-being. The magazine's comprehensive approach to its topics has solidified its reputation as the industry's leading, scientifically accurate, expert-driven and ethically balanced beauty resource.
ABOUT CUTERA
Brisbane, California-based Cutera is a leading laser and other energy-based systems provider for dermatologists and aesthetic practitioners worldwide. Since 1998, Cutera has been developing innovative, easy-to-use products that harness the power of science and nature to enable physicians and other qualified practitioners to offer safe and effective treatments to their patients. For more information, call +1 415-657-5500 or 1-888-4CUTERA or visit www.cutera.com.
Instagram: @CuteraInc
Facebook: @Cutera
1Taub A, Bartholomeusz J. Ultrasound Evaluation of a Single Treatment With a Temperature Controlled Multi-Frequency Monopolar Radio Frequency Device for the Improvement of Localized Adiposity on the Abdomen and Flanks. J Drugs Dermatol. 2020;19(1):28-34
2Somenek MT, Ronan SJ, Pittman TA. A Multi-Site, Single-Blinded, Prospective Pilot Clinical Trial for Non-Invasive Fat Reduction of the Abdomen and Flanks Using a Monopolar 2 MHz Radiofrequency Device. Lasers Surg Med. 2021 Mar;53(3):337-343
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SOURCE Cutera, Inc. | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/04/07/trubody-by-cutera-wins-newbeauty-award/ | 2022-04-07T16:57:27Z |
SINGAPORE and TEL AVIV, Israel, June 14, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- MooVita Pte Ltd, a high-tech company that designs and deploys roadworthy autonomous driving solutions in urban cities worldwide, announced the newest iteration of its proprietary MooBox technology, including its latest state-of-the-art Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) solutions. MooBox's ADAS capabilities are powered by the "Hailo-8™ edge-AI Processor," developed by leading AI chipmaker Hailo.
The new MooBox comes with cutting-edge ADAS features, including Pedestrian and Vehicle Collision Warning and Avoidance, Lane Keep Warning and Assist, Speed Limit Warning and Control, and Driver Behavior and Attention Monitoring.
MooBox combines both ADAS features and its Fleet Management System (FMS) interface to create monitoring diagnostics of a vehicle's health in a fan-less and compact design. The enhanced capabilities allow both public transportation and private-owned vehicles to be operationally efficient. This enhancement can also assist with fleet-wide management for commercial fleets.
The Hailo-8™ edge AI processor features up to 26 tera-operations per second (TOPS) to optimize demanding edge workloads for on-road vision and telematics applications. When implemented, Hailo's chip enables high processing power and low latency throughout the device, while maintaining industry-leading efficiency and scalability. These AI processing advancements are uniquely capable of supporting the demanding Deep Learning applications offered by the MooBox technology.
"Increasing safety, preserving vehicular integrity, and reducing supply chain downtime are some of the challenges transportation logistics providers are currently facing. Our improved, state-of-the-art platform significantly increases operational efficiency for fleet operators," said Anthony Wong, CTO of MooVita. "By providing telematics data regarding driver behavior, vehicle health, and real-time vehicle geolocation, MooBox can be used to make informed decisions that lead to greater safety, improved driving experience, and better route optimization, as well as reduced fuel consumption and carbon emissions. The improved MooBox is the beginning of a new era of incredibly power-efficient, customizable, and highly scalable ADAS that can transform any conventional vehicle into a smart vehicle. It even allows for data on driver behavior, vehicle health, and vehicle usage to be easily retrieved for risk assessment and powerful insights for FMS operations."
"We are thrilled to be partnering with a leading automotive technology company that specializes in providing advanced ADAS features for any vehicle, paving the way towards a fully autonomous future," said Orr Danon, CEO and Co-Founder of Hailo. "MooVita is bringing an unprecedented level of convenience, comfort, and safety to a car or fleet near you, and we are excited to be a part of that automotive revolution."
About MooVita
MooVita meticulously curates smart mobility solutions to roadworthy autonomous vehicles for urban municipalities worldwide. The company has proudly been doing so since 2016. Today, being one of the pioneers to fight for a paradigm shift in mobility, we transform existing infrastructure fleets into autonomous modes for multitudinous driving conditions and offer different modes of applications to ADAS.
About Hailo
Hailo, an AI-focused, Israel-based chipmaker, has developed a specialized Artificial Intelligence (AI) processor that delivers the performance of a data center-class computer to edge devices. Hailo's AI processor reimagines traditional computer architecture, enabling smart devices to perform sophisticated deep learning tasks such as object detection and segmentation in real time, with minimal power consumption, size, and cost. Supported by its Hailo-8™ M.2 and Mini PCIe high-performance AI acceleration modules, the deep learning processor is designed to fit into a multitude of smart machines and devices, impacting a wide variety of sectors including automotive, industry 4.0, smart cities, smart homes, and retail.
Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1839151/Hailo_MooBox.jpg
Press Contacts
MooVita
Natalie Lim
Marketing and Communications
natalie@moovita.com
Hailo
Garrett Krivicich
Headline Media
garrett@headline.media
+1-786-233-7684
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SOURCE Hailo | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/06/14/moovita-introduces-latest-adas-innovations-its-moobox-technology-powered-by-leading-ai-chipmaker-hailo/ | 2022-06-14T10:28:15Z |
BROOKLYN, N.Y., July 27, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Etsy, Inc. (NASDAQ: ETSY), which operates two-sided online marketplaces that connect millions of passionate and creative buyers and sellers around the world, today announced results for its second quarter ended June 30, 2022.
Second quarter 2022 performance highlights include:
- Consolidated GMS was $3.0 billion, down 0.4% year-over-year and up 2.6% on a currency neutral basis. GMS performance was impacted by macro headwinds including reopening, pressures on consumer discretionary spending, foreign exchange rate volatility, and ongoing geopolitical events.
- Consolidated revenue was $585.1 million, up 10.6% versus the second quarter of 2021, with a take rate (i.e., Consolidated revenue divided by Consolidated GMS) of 19.3%. This revenue performance reflects the Etsy marketplace transaction fee increase which went into effect on April 11, 2022.
- Net income was $73.1 million, down 25.6% year-over-year, with diluted earnings per share of $0.51. The decline in net income was primarily due to increased employee compensation-related expenses, as total employee headcount increased approximately 70% year-over-year, which includes increased headcount from the acquisitions of Depop and Elo7.
- Non-GAAP Adjusted EBITDA was $162.7 million, with Non-GAAP Adjusted EBITDA margin (i.e., Non-GAAP Adjusted EBITDA divided by consolidated revenue) of 28%, up 200 basis points compared to the second quarter of 2021.
- Etsy ended the second quarter with $1.1 billion in cash and cash equivalents and short- and long-term investments. Under Etsy's stock repurchase program, during the second quarter of 2022 Etsy repurchased an aggregate of approximately $62 million, or 690,992 shares, of its common stock.
"Our second quarter results once again reflect that Etsy has maintained most of our pandemic gains, and that we are able to deliver strong bottom line performance while simultaneously investing in key initiatives," said Josh Silverman, Etsy, Inc. Chief Executive Officer. "Despite facing headwinds caused by macroeconomic and geopolitical factors, we believe the improvements we've driven in customer experiences across the Etsy marketplace and our House of Brands, coupled with continued focus on our 'Right to Win' strategy, will enable us to unlock the enormous long-term opportunities we see ahead."
Second Quarter 2022 Financial Summary
(in thousands, except percentages; unaudited)
The financial results of Elo7 and Depop have been included in our consolidated financial results from July 2, 2021 and July 12, 2021 (the dates of acquisition), respectively. The unaudited GAAP and non-GAAP financial measures and key operating metrics we use are:
For information about how we define our metrics, see our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2022.
"Second quarter revenue grew over 10%, despite strong macroeconomic headwinds and challenging year over year comparables," said Rachel Glaser, Etsy, Inc. Chief Financial Officer. "This growth is attributable to the Etsy marketplace transaction fee increase, the addition of Depop and Elo7 to our House of Brands portfolio, and the strength of our Etsy Ads product, which continues to be a great solution for sellers looking to grow their businesses. We are pleased that Etsy's highly variable cost structure helped drive strong second quarter adjusted EBITDA margin of 28% and operating cash flow of $125.8 million."
Second Quarter 2022 Operating Highlights
Select highlights of second quarter business initiatives for the Etsy marketplace are outlined below:
Product: Our primary focus in 2022 is to enhance the customer experiences across Etsy.com to engage, retain, and grow our buyer base. These are just a few of our initiatives during the second quarter, aligned with our "Right to Win" strategy.
- We continued our journey toward best-in-class Search, delivering more relevant results to make finding the right thing easier on Etsy. Advancements in ranking delivered real-time personalized results, tailoring search results to what you may have looked at within the same session. We continued to improve our deep learning models, resulting in better understanding of language and cultural nuances, raising relevance while also decreasing 'dead end' search results by approximately 30% since the beginning of the year. Finally, we launched the first version of Localized XWalk to all non-U.S. markets during the quarter.
- Our Visual Discovery work streams progressed during the quarter. First, we introduced video functionality for buyer reviews, providing additional visibility for our sellers' unique items and stories, while simultaneously adding more trust signals to the buyer experience. Second, we tested a two day live 'Etsy Market' shopping event in our App. Sellers reported a positive experience with the event, and especially loved how they could connect with buyers in a new and more personal way.
- We improved our ranking capabilities for Etsy Ads by continuing to close the semantic gap and leveraging new machine learning techniques to capture intrinsic styles and properties, providing more relevant ad inventory without compromising conversion rate. We also expanded Etsy Ads inventory to the homepage, while maintaining listing relevance consistent with organic results. Sellers continue to see the value in our Etsy Ads program as a sales driver in a challenging environment, with seller budgets up 80% year-to-date.
- As part of our focus on driving buyer engagement and frequency, during the second quarter we prompted signed-out browsers to download the Etsy App, leading to a 53% increase in downloads versus the year-ago period. We also redesigned our homepage to show recommended listings based on recently viewed items and App icon notifications, both of which drove frequency.
- We announced a new Etsy Purchase Protection program, which goes into effect August 1st. This program will protect sellers and buyers on qualifying orders up to $250 when the item does not match the description, arrives damaged, or never arrives. Etsy expects to invest approximately $25 million annually to cover refunds at no additional cost to sellers.
- In our international markets, we substantially improved delivery transparency: in the second quarter, over 90% of non-U.S. listings included expected delivery date and over 80% included origin postal code information, key signals for building buyer trust. We also added the Indian Rupee to the Etsy Payments platform, providing a more localized checkout experience for buyers in India. We launched "Buy Now, Pay Later" in Austria, Canada, Denmark, Finland, the Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, and Switzerland, bringing coverage to thirteen countries.
- We continued to focus on seller performance and invest in their growth, including: adjusting the Star Seller rating criteria to make the badge more achievable for those sellers who provide excellent customer service. Based on extensive research, we fully launched our new Sell on Etsy App to all sellers, including new features such as the ability to easily check order statuses, notifications about repeat customers, adding photos and listing videos, purchasing and printing shipping labels, and inventory management.
- We expanded enforcement of our Handmade Policy to continue to protect the integrity of our marketplace, and in April we began proactively reviewing listings for potential handmade violations - in fact, in the second quarter we removed approximately 50% more listings than in all of 2021. Etsy also published our 2021 Transparency Report, which reviews policy enforcement activities for the year and can be found on the Investor Relations website.
Marketing: We continued to optimize spending across our marketing channels, focusing on driving top-of-mind awareness and new buyer acquisition, and increasing retention and purchase frequency of existing buyers. Here are some highlights for the quarter:
- Our performance marketing investments, which dynamically adjust based upon demand, benefited from higher buyer lifetime value ("LTV") from the transaction fee increase and continued improvements to our models and data feeds. We also expanded performance marketing spend to Finland, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, New Zealand, and Mexico, bringing the total number of non core countries where we are investing in performance marketing to thirteen. During the second quarter, approximately 51% of paid GMS in these countries came from new buyers.
- We utilized our improved customer relationship management capabilities and App push notifications to promote seller "Thank You" coupon email reminders, offers for buyers' recently favorited items, Mother's Day flash sales on our App, abandoned cart reminders, as well as redesigned post-purchase "convos" and recommendation emails to drive buyer re-engagement and frequency.
- We held our 4th annual Etsy Design Awards, a global awards program that celebrates sellers in our community for their exceptional talent and entrepreneurship. We announced 12 winners across categories including home decor, vintage, and fashion, demonstrating the breadth of the Etsy assortment. The program saw strong seller submission and buyer engagement with over 100,000 total votes for the People's Pick Award and 150,000 listing views of our Editor's Pick page.
- We introduced a "Creator Collab," showcasing one-of-a-kind pieces co-created with fourteen Etsy sellers across the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, and Canada. In just five days post-launch, select items from the collection were already sold out, and we garnered strong media coverage, including fourteen global publications and approximately 117 million impressions.
Impact Pillars: We continued to make progress on our Impact strategy to reflect the positive impact we want to have on the world while advancing and complementing our business strategy. Second quarter highlights include:
- Our Uplift Fund reached an important milestone during the quarter of over 10 million total donations since the start of the program in early 2021. The Uplift Fund allows United States buyers to round up their order total to the nearest dollar and donate the difference to nonprofits that work to dismantle barriers to creative entrepreneurship.
- Etsy expanded its Uplift Makers Program, designed to open doors and create financial opportunities for artisan communities facing economic hardships, with the launch of the Afghan Refugees Collective. This program helps Afghan refugee artisans to open individual shops on Etsy and get started on the road to creative entrepreneurship.
- Etsy signed a Memorandum of Understanding ("MoU") with the North Eastern Handicrafts and Handloom Development Corporation ("NEHHDC") to support small sellers, weavers, and artisans from the North East of India.
Here are a few operational highlights from our subsidiary marketplaces:
Reverb helped buyers find their perfect instrument with updates to on-site algorithms, local enhancements, and improved domestic discovery in the United Kingdom. To meet buyer expectations on free shipping and returns, we helped buyers connect with sellers offering free 2-day shipping and 30-day return policies.
Depop focused on improving the buyer experience by increasing product velocity and efficient experimentation, addressing early stages in the discovery journey all the way through to post-purchase support. In addition, Depop invested in data infrastructure and reliability. Depop expanded brand awareness with its digital video campaign in the United Kingdom, as well as tested and enhanced its performance marketing attribution and incrementality models.
Elo7 improved the buyer experience by introducing signals and nudges into the purchasing journey and continued to expand shipping options for sellers to reduce costs and increase delivery speed, while improving delivery transparency for buyers.
Financial Guidance and Outlook
Etsy's guidance for consolidated GMS, revenue, and Adjusted EBITDA margin for the third quarter of 2022 is:
GMS: $2.8B to $3.0B
Revenue: $540M to $575M
Adjusted EBITDA
margin: Approximately 26%
Please note that our guidance assumes currency exchange rates remain unchanged at current levels.
Regarding Etsy's outlook, Mr. Silverman commented, "We see multiple scenarios possible for the remainder of 2022, but all still point to very healthy profitability throughout. We'll keep focusing on the things we can control - driving great customer experiences, investing with discipline and care, and helping our team minimize distractions to focus on getting the job done. It's not an easy time for the world, but we take heart that we come to work every day to drive value for our sellers and give buyers experiences they can't find anywhere else."
Webcast and Conference Call Information
Etsy will host a video webcast conference call to discuss these results at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time today, which will be live-streamed via our Investor Relations website (investors.etsy.com) under the Events section. Those interested in submitting questions during the earnings call can do so by using the Q&A chat window, which will be available during the webcast. A copy of the earnings call presentation will also be posted to our website.
A replay of the video webcast will be available through the same link following the conference call starting at 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time this evening, for at least three months thereafter.
About Etsy
Etsy, Inc. operates two-sided online marketplaces that connect millions of passionate and creative buyers and sellers around the world. These marketplaces share a mission to "Keep Commerce Human," and we're committed to using the power of business and technology to strengthen communities and empower people. Our primary marketplace, Etsy.com, is the global destination for unique and creative goods. Buyers come to Etsy to be inspired and delighted by items that are crafted and curated by creative entrepreneurs. For sellers, we offer a range of tools and services that address key business needs.
Etsy, Inc.'s "House of Brands" portfolio also includes fashion resale marketplace Depop, musical instrument marketplace Reverb, and Brazil-based handmade goods marketplace Elo7. Each Etsy, Inc. marketplace operates independently, while benefiting from shared expertise in product, marketing, technology, and customer support.
Etsy was founded in 2005 and is headquartered in Brooklyn, New York.
Etsy has used, and intends to continue using, its Investor Relations website and the Etsy News Blog (blog.etsy.com/news) to disclose material non-public information and to comply with its disclosure obligations under Regulation FD. Accordingly, you should monitor our investor relations website and the Etsy News Blog in addition to following our press releases, SEC filings, and public conference calls and webcasts.
Investor Relations Contact:
Deb Wasser, Vice President, Investor Relations and ESG Engagement
ir@etsy.com
Jessica Schmidt, Sr. Director, Investor Relations
ir@etsy.com
Media Relations Contact:
Sarah Marx, Director, Corporate Communications
press@etsy.com
Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains or references forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws. Forward-looking statements include statements relating to our financial guidance for the third quarter of 2022 and key drivers thereof; our opportunity; the impact of our "Right to Win" and other growth strategies, marketing and product initiatives, and investments and other levers of growth on our business and operating results, including future GMS and revenue growth; our ability to attract, engage, and retain buyers and sellers; our plans for investment in our marketplaces and in our member support programs; strategic investments and the potential benefits thereof; our intended environmental and social impacts; the global macroeconomic uncertainty, including impacts general market, political, economic, and business conditions may have on our business, strategy, operating results, key metrics, financial condition, profitability, and cash flows; changes in overall levels of consumer spending and e-commerce generally; and volatility in the global economy. Forward-looking statements include all statements that are not historical facts. In some cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by terms such as "aim," "anticipate," "believe," "could," "enable," "estimate," "expect," "goal," "intend," "may," "outlook," "plan," "potential," "target," "will," or similar expressions and derivative forms and/or the negatives of those words.
Forward-looking statements involve substantial risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from those that we expect. These risks and uncertainties include: (1) our ability to sustain our rapid growth and demand for our services; (2) risks related to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, which continues to impact our business and results of operations in numerous volatile and unpredictable ways, as well as risks the e-commerce gains experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic do not hold as the pandemic abates; (3) the fluctuation of our quarterly operating results; (4) our failure to meet our publicly announced guidance or other expectations; (5) our ability to successfully execute on our business strategy or if our strategy proves to be ineffective; (6) our ability to attract and retain active and engaged communities of sellers and buyers; (7) macroeconomic events that are outside of our control; (8) our ability to recruit and retain employees; (9) the importance to our success of the trustworthiness of our marketplaces and the connections within our communities; (10) our ability to enhance our current offerings and develop new offerings to respond to the changing needs of sellers and buyers; (11) the effectiveness of our marketing efforts; (12) the effectiveness of our mobile solutions for sellers and buyers; (13) our ability to expand our business in our core geographic markets; (14) regulation in the area of privacy and protection of user data; (15) our dependence on third-party payment providers; (16) our ability to successfully integrate the Depop and Elo7 acquisitions and execute on our "House of Brands" strategy; (17) acquisitions that may prove unsuccessful or divert management attention; and (18) the potential misuse or disclosure of sensitive information about members of our communities and the potential for cyber-attacks. These and other risks and uncertainties are more fully described in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including in the section entitled "Risk Factors" in our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2022, and subsequent reports that we file with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Moreover, we operate in a very competitive and rapidly changing environment. New risks emerge from time to time. It is not possible for our management to predict all risks, nor can we assess the impact of all factors on our business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements we may make. In light of these risks, uncertainties, and assumptions, we cannot guarantee future results, levels of activity, performance, achievements, or events and circumstances reflected in the forward-looking statements will occur.
Forward-looking statements represent our beliefs and assumptions only as of the date of this press release. We disclaim any obligation to update forward-looking statements.
Currency-Neutral GMS Growth
We calculate currency-neutral GMS growth by translating current period GMS for goods sold that were listed in non-U.S. dollar currencies into U.S. dollars using prior year foreign currency exchange rates.
As reported and currency-neutral GMS growth for the periods presented below are as follows:
Non-GAAP Financial Measures
Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA Margin
In this press release, we provide Adjusted EBITDA, a non-GAAP financial measure that represents our net income adjusted to exclude: interest and other non-operating expense, net; provision (benefit) for income taxes; depreciation and amortization; stock-based compensation expense; foreign exchange (gain) loss; and acquisition-related expenses. We also provide Adjusted EBITDA margin, a non-GAAP financial measure that presents Adjusted EBITDA divided by revenue. Below is a reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA to net income, the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure. With respect to our expectations under "Financial Guidance and Outlook" above, reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA margin guidance to the closest corresponding GAAP measure is not available without unreasonable efforts on a forward-looking basis due to the high variability, complexity, and low visibility with respect to the charges excluded from these non-GAAP measures; in particular, stock-based compensation expense, foreign exchange (gain) loss, and acquisition-related and other non-recurring expenses can have unpredictable fluctuations based on unforeseen activity that is out of our control and/or cannot reasonably be predicted.
We have included Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA margin because they are key measures used by our management and Board of Directors to evaluate our operating performance and trends, allocate internal resources, prepare and approve our annual budget, develop short- and long-term operating plans, determine incentive compensation, and assess the health of our business. As our Adjusted EBITDA increases, we are able to invest more in our platforms.
We believe that Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA margin can provide useful measures for period-to-period comparisons of our business as they remove the impact of certain non-cash items and certain variable charges.
Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA margin have limitations as analytical tools, and you should not consider them in isolation or as a substitute for analysis of our results as reported under GAAP. Some of these limitations are:
- Adjusted EBITDA does not reflect other non-operating expenses, net of other non-operating income, including net interest expense;
- Adjusted EBITDA does not reflect tax payments that may represent a reduction in cash available to us;
- although depreciation and amortization are non-cash charges, the assets being depreciated and amortized may have to be replaced in the future, and Adjusted EBITDA does not reflect cash capital expenditure requirements for such replacements or for new capital expenditure requirements;
- Adjusted EBITDA does not consider the impact of stock-based compensation expense;
- Adjusted EBITDA does not consider the impact of foreign exchange (gain) loss;
- Adjusted EBITDA does not reflect acquisition-related expenses; and
- other companies, including companies in our industry, may calculate Adjusted EBITDA differently, which reduces its usefulness as a comparative measure.
Because of these limitations, you should consider Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA margin alongside other financial performance measures, including net income, revenue, and our other GAAP results.
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SOURCE Etsy | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/07/27/etsy-inc-reports-second-quarter-2022-results/ | 2022-07-27T21:28:05Z |
CALGARY, AB, May 26, 2022 /PRNewswire/ - Nanalysis Scientific Corp. (TSXV:NSCI, OTCQX:NSCIF, FRA:1N1) ("Nanalysis" or the "Company") announces that the Company's wholly-owned subsidiary K'(Prime) Technologies (KPrime) has won a six year $160 million service and maintenance contract with Canadian Air Transportation Security Authority ("CATSA"), which includes a gradual phase in period of approximately one year. Furthermore, it is common for these types of contracts to be renewed for an additional five years, making it a potential 11 year recuring revenue opportunity, with inflation-based contractual price increases. The effective date of the executed contract is May 25, 2022 and it expires on May 31, 2028.
"We are pleased to have won this contract to support imaging and other security screening equipment at all airports across Canada," said Sean Krakiwsky, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Nanalysis. "The security market is a very important vertical for all our products, including benchtop NMR, and it is our vision to have direct sales and service capabilities in every major market in the world. This contract win is an instrumental step in simultaneously opening up the security vertical as well as adding a material recurring revenue stream to our business. In addition to world-class R&D and manufacturing, we are now a world-class equipment service provider. We expect to expand this business in the security vertical, globally, as part of our growth plans going forward."
KPrime has begun the phase in process for this project to airports across Canada, and the company anticipates the service coverage to be completed before the end of Q1, 2023.
Martin Corrigan, Vice President and CTO of CATSA states: "We look forward to working with KPrime as they assume the maintenance service responsibilities for our of large fleet of screening equipment across the country."
Kham Lin, Founder and President of KPrime and Managing Director of Nanalysis' Security Business, states: "We have been positioning KPrime to win this contract for several years but needed to be part of a larger organization to conduct business of this size. This contract win is one example of how Nanalysis + KPrime will enable larger business opportunities and value creation for shareholders. We currently provide service in airports and other security markets, and so we are well positioned to expand this business. This business also opens sales channels for Nanalysis' proprietary products going forward. Because of our experience with these types of service contracts, we are very confident in our ability to successfully implement and profitably manage this world-class project."
Airports, border crossings, prisons, and other security markets are expected to be important growth drivers for Nanalysis over the next five years and beyond. Nanalysis' vision is to build a fully vertically integrated global scientific instrumentation company, serving customers in the security, pharma, biotech, food, energy, advanced materials, petrochemical, healthcare, and education markets with imaging and detection products and service. The company will continue to expand direct sales, service, and channel management capabilities world-wide, and will also strengthen technology partnerships, as well as develop important supply chain risk-mitigation and technology differentiation capabilities as geo-political landscape evolves, ensuring the ability to continue to drive growth and create shareholder value.
About Nanalysis Scientific Corp. (TSXV: NSCI, OTCQX: NSCIF, FRA:1N1)
Nanalysis trades on the TSX Venture Exchange (TSXV) in Canada with ticker symbol 'NSCI', OTC and the Frankfurt exchange under the ticker symbol '1N1'. The company's business is what we term "MRI and NMR for industry". The company develops and manufactures portable Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectrometers or analyzers for laboratory and industrial markets. The NMReady-60™ was the first full-feature portable NMR spectrometer in a single compact enclosure requiring no liquid helium or any other cryogens. The company has followed-up that initial offering with new products and continues to have a strong innovation pipeline. Nanalysis recently announced that it has begun selling a 100MHz device in 2020. The Company's new device will be the most powerful and most advanced compact NMR device ever brought to market.
Nanalysis devices are used in many industries (oil and gas, chemical, mining, pharma, biotech, flavor and fragrances, agrochemicals, law enforcement, and more) as well as numerous government and university research labs around the world. The Company continues to exploit new global market opportunities independently and with partners.
With the recent acquisition of K'(Prime) Technologies Inc. (KPrime), the company maintains a North American sales and service company of over 40 individuals who cover scientific instrumentation for pharma, food, chemical and oil & gas customers, as well as imaging systems for security applications.
Additionally, the Company has a 43% ownership in Quad Systems AG ("Quad Systems"), with an option to purchase the remaining shares. Quad Systems is a Zurich-based Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) company focused on high-field NMR for pharmaceutical and other vertical markets.
Notice regarding Forward Looking Statements and Legal Disclaimer
This news release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (collectively "forward-looking information") within the meaning of applicable securities laws pertaining to the following: : the expected revenue from the CATSA contract over five years and the renewal of the CATSA contract for an additional five years. Forward-looking statements are frequently characterized by words such as "anticipates", "plan", "continue", "expect", "project", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate", "may", "will", "potential", "proposed", "positioned" and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur. The forward-looking information is based on certain key expectations and assumptions made by the Company's management which may prove to be incorrect, including but not limited to: the ability of the Company to implement and manage the CATSA contract. The Company believes the expectations reflected in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, but no assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct and such forward-looking statements in this news release should not be unduly relied upon. A description of assumptions used to develop such forward-looking information and a description of risk factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from forward-looking information can be found in the Company's disclosure documents on the SEDAR website at www.sedar.com. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: risks and uncertainties relating to the management's ability to anticipate and manage the factors and risks referred to therein. Forward-looking information included in this news release are made as of the date of this news release and such information should not be relied upon as representing its views as of any date subsequent to the date of this news release. The Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results, performance or achievements to vary from those current expectations or estimates expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. However, there may be other factors that cause results, performance or achievements not to be as expected or estimated and that could cause actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from current expectations. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as expressly required by applicable securities legislation.
Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
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SOURCE Nanalysis Scientific Corp. | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/05/26/nanalysis-scientific-corp-announces-160-million-multi-year-contract-win/ | 2022-05-26T13:31:15Z |
City Of Denver To Issue Formal apology To Chinese Immigrants, Descendants For Role In 1880 Anti-Chinese Riot
By Marissa Armas
Click here for updates on this story
DENVER, Colorado (KCNC) — Walking through Lower Downtown, LoDo, in Denver, there aren’t many signs of what once was, except for a plaque near 20th and Blake.
“A white mob descended on the Chinatown that was existing in LoDo, and basically they brutalized the people there, they destroyed the businesses, and they even killed a man,” said Joie Ha, the vice-chair of the Colorado Asian Pacific United.
On Oct. 31, 1880, a once-bustling Denver Chinatown was left in shambles after an anti-Chinese riot broke out in the area.
“After the riot there were tens of thousands of dollars in damage to businesses and the city of Denver and other institutions were unable to compensate anyone for the damages that they experienced,” Ha said. “As a whole, those that were brutalizing, also didn’t really receive any punishment for what they had done.”
Now the City of Denver is issuing a formal apology to Chinese immigrants and their descendants for its role in the riot. On Saturday, CAPU, the city of Denver and the University of Colorado Denver, are gathering for the event “Reclaiming Our Past, Building Our Future: Denver’s Chinatown Apology.” Denver will become only the sixth city to issue an apology of this sort to the Chinese community in the United States, and the first city outside of California to do so.
“The city of Denver turned its back on our Chinese community,” said Derek Okubo, the executive director, with the city of Denver’s Agency for Human Rights and Community Partnerships. “We allowed prejudice and hate and discrimination to fester.”
Okubo said while they cannot erase the past injustices, this is a first step towards recognizing and honoring the contributions of the Chinese community and fostering racial reconciliation.
“Trauma passes down to generations. We need to heal,” he said.
For CAPU it’s an apology that brings healing and knowledge, so history doesn’t repeat itself.
“This is a start for a movement where we really start to recognize and honor the legacies of our communities,” Ha said. “And continue to build upon the work that our forefathers and foremothers have done to create a society and community that truly is welcoming, where everyone despite their background can feel a sense of belonging.”
Saturday’s event is currently at capacity, but CAPU will stream the event live. For a link to that visit: facebook.com/ColoradoAPUnited
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. | https://localnews8.com/cnn-regional/2022/04/15/city-of-denver-to-issue-formal-apology-to-chinese-immigrants-descendants-for-role-in-1880-anti-chinese-riot/ | 2022-04-15T22:14:38Z |
LPD “confident” two church vandalism suspects identified
LAWRENCE, Kan. (WIBW) - Lawrence Police are “confident” they have identified two suspects in the case of two churches that had been vandalized with political messages.
The Lawrence Police Department says on Monday, Aug. 1, - the day before elections - it was reported that two churches had been vandalized with political messages.
LPD noted that leaders at Victory Bible Church at 20th and Massachusetts St. caught two suspects on camera, however, the suspects were not easily identifiable from the video alone.
Investigators said they did not give and have identified the suspects. A search warrant was issued on Friday morning, Aug. 5.
LPD noted that it is confident it has found those responsible and are preparing the case for the District Attorney to review and decide possible charges.
Officials have not released the identities of the two suspects.
Copyright 2022 WIBW. All rights reserved. | https://www.wibw.com/2022/08/05/lpd-confident-two-church-vandalism-suspects-identified/ | 2022-08-05T20:53:05Z |
As heat ramps up ahead of what forecasters say will be a hotter than normal summer, electricity experts and officials are warning that states may not have enough power to meet demand in the coming months. And many of the nation's grid operators are also not taking climate change into account in their planning, even as extreme weather becomes more frequent and more severe.
All of this suggests that more power outages are on the way, not only this summer but in the coming years as well.
Power operators in the Central US, in their summer readiness report, have already predicted "insufficient firm resources to cover summer peak forecasts." That assessment accounted for historical weather and the latest NOAA outlook that projects for more extreme weather this summer.
But energy experts tell CNN that some power grid operators are not considering how the climate crisis is changing our weather — including more frequent extreme events — and that is a problem if the intent is to build a reliable power grid.
"The reality is the electricity system is old and a lot of the infrastructure was built before we started thinking about climate change," said Romany Webb, a researcher at Columbia University's Sabin Center for Climate Change Law. "It's not designed to withstand the impacts of climate change."
Webb says many power grid operators use historical weather to make investment decisions, rather than the more dire climate projections, simply because they want to avoid the possibility of financial loss for investing in what might happen versus what has already happened. She said it's the wrong approach and it makes the grid vulnerable.
"We have seen a reluctance on the part of many utilities to factor climate change into their planning processes because they say the science around climate change is too uncertain," Webb said. "The reality is we know climate change is happening, we know the impact it has in terms of more severe heatwaves, hurricanes, drought, and we know that all of those things affect the electricity system so ignoring those impacts just makes the problems worse."
An early heatwave knocked six power plants offline in Texas earlier this month. Residents were asked to limit electricity use, keeping thermostats at 78 degrees or higher and avoid using large appliances at peak times. The Electric Reliability Council of Texas, or ERCOT, in its seasonal reliability report, said the state's power grid is prepared for the summer and has "sufficient" power for "normal" summer conditions, based on average weather from 2006 to 2020.
But NOAA's recently released summer outlook forecasts above average temperatures for every county in the nation.
"We are continuing to design and site facilities based on historical weather patterns that we know in the age of climate change are not a good proxy for future conditions," Webb told CNN.
When asked if the agency is creating a blind spot for itself by not accounting for extreme weather predictions, an ERCOT spokesperson told CNN the report "uses a scenario approach to illustrate a range of resource adequacy outcomes based on extreme system conditions, including some extreme weather scenarios."
The North American Electric Reliability Corporation, or NERC — a regulating authority that oversees the health of the nation's electrical infrastructure — has a less optimistic projection.
In a recent seasonal reliability report, NERC placed Texas at "elevated risk" for blackouts this summer. It also reported that while much of the nation will have adequate electricity this summer, several markets are at risk of energy emergencies.
California grid operators in its summer reliability report also based its readiness analysis on "the most recent 20 years of historical weather data." The report also notes the assessment "does not fully reflect more extreme climate induced load and supply uncertainties."
Compounding the US power grid's supply and demand problem is drought: NERC tells CNN there's been a 2% loss of reliable hydropower from the nation's power-producing dams. Add to that the rapid retirement of many coal power plants — all while nearly everything from toothbrushes to cars are now electrified. Energy experts say adding more renewables into the mix will have the dual impact of cutting climate change inducing greenhouse gas emissions but also increasing the nation's power supply.
Plan B
One Chicago neighborhood is already making plans for how to keep the lights, air conditioning and heat on when the larger grid fails.
In the Bronzeville neighborhood on Chicago's South Side, solar panels dot the rooftop of a public housing complex. A short drive away, a a giant battery stores energy from the solar panels as well as natural gas generators, creating a micro grid. The state energy company, Commonwealth Eddison, is working with community members to make the neighborhood energy independent.
"Without power we are talking about potential life-threatening situations, so this micro grid provides that backup to be able to deliver power even when the [main] grid isn't there," said Paul Pabst, an engineer for Commonwealth Edison.
The project is pending approval but once it's operating, the micro grid can connect and share power with the main grid. In the event of a blackout, it can disconnect and operate independently, tapping its stored battery energy to power the homes, police station and hospital in the area for four hours.
Yami Newell is a Bronzeville resident and energy advocate. She has seen the cascading effects of an unreliable power grid in Chicago, a place that's no stranger to weather-related outages from both extreme cold and extreme heat. Losing power in a heatwave can create a dangerous health situation, and for families on a fixed income, losing all of the food in their refrigerator can be financially devastating.
"An energy crisis can become a public health crisis," Newell told CNN. "It can become a food crisis."
As communities look for innovative ways to build a more resilient grid, Bronzeville is one possible blueprint. Until states build a more resilient power grid, climate change will force energy companies to continue to take emergency actions, like asking people to limit electricity use or forced rolling blackouts to manage the grid when supply can't meet demand.
The-CNN-Wire
™ & © 2022 Cable News Network, Inc., a WarnerMedia Company. All rights reserved. | https://www.albanyherald.com/news/energy-experts-sound-alarm-about-us-electric-grid-not-designed-to-withstand-the-impacts-of/article_8fbd8184-5e82-5ce7-90da-5322624ba754.html | 2022-05-31T16:35:36Z |
Tyson 2.0's premium product line is now available at 16 retail locations across Washington in partnership with Mammoth Labs
ORANGE COUNTY, Calif., June 2, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Tyson 2.0 ("The Company"), legendary boxer, entrepreneur and cannabis advocate Mike Tyson's cannabis brand, today announced in collaboration with its exclusive partner, Mammoth Labs that Tyson 2.0's premium suite of cannabis products are now available at sixteen dispensaries across the state of Washington.
"Tyson 2.0 x Mammoth Labs products will pack twice the punch for Washington cannabis consumers with our high THC strains and superior terpene profiles,'' said Mike Tyson, Chief Brand Officer and Co-Founder of Tyson 2.0. "Cannabis of this craft can truly elevate the mind and spirit. I look forward to sharing my cannabis healing journey with fans across Washington."
Tyson 2.0 will debut in Washington across sixteen dispensaries including Cannabis & Glass, Herbery, Zips, The FireHouse and The Station locations starting today. Through its production partnership with Washington-based Mammoth Labs, Tyson 2.0 premium products offered will include eighths (3.5g) jars of flower in Desert Toad, Southern Toad, Tiger Mintz and Dynamite Cookie; and exclusive concentrates: diamonds and sauce in Viper Cookies, Orange Punch, Cake Crasher; and badder in Southern Toad.
"Thrilled to partner with the legend, Mike Tyson and the Tyson 2.0 team to bring long-awaited Tyson 2.0 products into the Washington market," said Connor Jackson, Director of Operations for Mammoth Labs. "We look forward to further strengthening our relationship with the Tyson 2.0 team as we roll-out products across sixteen dispensaries across Washington and anticipate exciting things to come."
"We are proud to partner with Mammoth Labs and their team of extraction experts, a company that shares our commitment in delivering high-quality, premium cannabis products known for their efficacy and wellness benefits," said Adam Wilks, CEO of Tyson 2.0. "Washington is a key market for Tyson 2.0 and we look forward to meeting consumer demand in the state as we continue to ramp up our nationwide expansion plans and launch exciting new products."
For more information on Tyson 2.0, visit Tyson20.com.
Tyson 2.0-branded merchandise is available for purchase at shoptyson20.com.
Product photos are available upon request.
About Tyson 2.0
Tyson 2.0 is a premier cannabis company formed with legendary boxer, entrepreneur and icon Mike Tyson. The company's mission is to produce innovative, high-quality cannabis products known for purity, precision, and wide accessibility. Providing consumers an outstanding selection of products, Tyson 2.0 is an extraordinary balance of premium and affordable, full-spectrum cannabis flower, concentrates and consumables available at retailers nationwide. Learn more at Tyson20.com.
About Mammoth Labs
Mammoth Labs, a top-shelf multi-state cannabis brand established 2016 in Ellensburg, Washington, specializes in high terpene concentrates, vapes, infused pre-rolls and edibles. The brand is dedicated to creating the highest quality cannabis products. With a team of master chemists specializing in hydrocarbon extractions, Mammoth Labs produces a consortium of strain specific cannabis extracts that have great terpene profiles in conjunction with high THC content. Operating out of a forty acre farm in Washington, Mammoth Labs primarily focuses on quality indoor and outdoor flowers with a wide variety of sought after genetics. Please visit: www.MammothLabs.com to learn more.
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SOURCE Tyson 2.0 | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/06/02/tyson-20-mike-tysons-premium-cannabis-brand-launches-washington-state-with-exclusive-concentrates-flower-by-mammoth-labs/ | 2022-06-02T13:27:15Z |
Doctor Reviewed And Research-Proven With Vitamins, Minerals And Specialty Nutrients To Boost Libido, Support Hormonal Changes, And Overall Sexual Wellbeing
AUSTIN, Texas, June 15, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Giddy, the world's largest sexual health platform, today announces the launch of Giddy + Health, a new line of clean-label vitamins specially formulated to support sexual health. The doctor reviewed line was built around rigorous scientific research to aid in sexual wellbeing including libido, men's prostate, menopause, and overall health. The microbeads inside the vegetarian capsules provide sustained release, which tends to improve absorption and help maintain optimal blood nutrient levels over time.
The research-proven nutrients at efficacious doses are used while maintaining a single capsule per serving. The Giddy + Health vitamin line includes:
- Male Libido: Boosts vitality and performance, raises testosterone levels, increases blood flow and supports erectile dysfunction. Key ingredients include Longjack to increase sexual desire, boost athletic performance and aid in erectile dysfunction; Ashwagandha to promote healthy blood flow to the genitals, relieve stress and improve concentration; and Zinc to increase libido.
- Men's Prostate: Promotes a healthy prostate function, improves urinary tract health, reduces inflammation and BPH, and combats prostate enlargement. Key ingredients include Saw Palmetto to support normal prostate function by improving Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) levels, Stinging Nettle to promote a healthy antioxidant profile by reducing prostate inflammation and C-reactive protein levels, and Pygeum which can improve urinary flow rate and reduce nocturnal urination.
- Female Libido: Formulated to support healthy libido, mood and sexual function through well-studied botanical extracts and herbs including Panax Ginseng to aid in a healthy mood, cognition and subjective well-being; Ashwagandha to reduce stress, anxiety and improve the pro-libido hormonal profile; and Diindolylmethane (DIM) to help facilitate a healthy hormonal profile.
- Female Menopause: Formulated with Black Cohosh to help relieve hot flashes, Pueraria Mirifica which can reduce menopause symptoms, and Panax Ginseng which can support a healthy mood and improve markers of menopause.
- Multivitamin: Designed to help women and men get essential nutrients to support nerve function, boost cardiovascular and immune health, improve calcium metabolism and maintain healthy antioxidant balance.
Giddy + Health vitamins are free of artificial colors and dyes, FDA registered and formulated in a GMP certified USA facility. All microbeads are third-party tested for purity and potency, naturally-colored and vegetarian. The vitamins can be purchased at www.giddyhealth.com and cost between $30-$50 per month.
About Giddy: Illuminating sexual wellbeing for all, Giddy is the world's largest sexual health resource. Their team of award-winning journalists cover over 120 topics from conditions, diseases and disorders to stages of life, relationships, and much more with medically-reviewed, engaging content. Giddy is a 2021 and 2022 Digital Health Award winner. To become a free member visit www.getmegiddy.com
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SOURCE Giddy | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/06/15/giddy-launches-line-clean-label-sexual-health-vitamins-giddy-health/ | 2022-06-15T13:56:36Z |
Biden continues to test positive for COVID-19
(Gray News) - President Joe Biden is still testing positive for COVID-19, his physician said Wednesday.
The White House update from Dr. Kevin O’Connor said Biden “continues to feel well,” though he is still experiencing an occasional cough.
All his vital signs are good, including oxygen saturation, and he is continuing to isolate, working from the official residence and taking precautions not to expose anyone else to the virus, O’Connor said.
After having tested negative last week, the president tested positive again Saturday and has experienced the return of some symptoms.
Biden is expected to speak about reproductive health care in a virtual meeting with an interagency task force Wednesday afternoon.
Copyright 2022 Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved. | https://www.wibw.com/2022/08/03/biden-continues-test-positive-covid-19/ | 2022-08-03T17:24:10Z |
HOUSTON, Sept. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- UBS Wealth Management USA today announced that Financial Advisors Amanda Evans, Caleb Kocian and Kelsey Shive in the firm's greater Houston market, have been named among the Forbes/SHOOK Research Top Next-Gen Wealth Advisors for 2022. Amanda is based in the firm's City Centre branch, Caleb is based in River Oaks, and Kelsey is based in The Woodlands.
"Congratulations to Amanda, Caleb and Kelsey on this well-deserved recognition," said Craig Vandegrift, Managing Director and South Texas-Market Head at UBS Wealth Management USA. "Their expertise, dedication and passion to serving their clients are exemplary, and they represent the future of wealth management at UBS."
Amanda is part of the Attigo Wealth Advisors team. She is a Certified Financial Planner™ and also holds a Certified Exit Planning Advisor designation for advising business owner clients. Prior to joining UBS in 2015, Amanda was a Private Advisor with BB&T Wealth.
Caleb is part of the Trahan Financial Group team. As a designated Certified Financial Planner™ and Accredited Wealth Management AdvisorSM, he provides financial planning, estate planning, and diversification strategies for concentrated stock positions to large public companies and their executives.
Kelsey is part of the Babendure & Shive Wealth Management team. She focuses on providing comprehensive financial plans and investment strategies to help her clients reach their financial goals. Kelsey joined UBS in July 2015. She holds her Certified Financial Planner™ certification, the Accredited Wealth Management Advisor designation and is licensed to offer insurance products.
The 2022 Forbes/SHOOK Research Top Next-Gen list includes 1,000 rising advisors all born in 1983 or later. Each advisor is chosen based on an algorithm of qualitative and quantitative criteria, including in-person interviews, industry experience, compliance records, revenue produced and assets under management.
For the full list and further information visit: https://www.forbes.com/top-next-gen-advisors.
Notes to Editors
UBS convenes the global ecosystem for investing, where people and ideas are connected and opportunities brought to life, and provides financial advice and solutions to wealthy, institutional and corporate clients worldwide, as well as to private clients in Switzerland. UBS offers investment solutions, products and impactful thought leadership, is the leading global wealth manager, provides large-scale and diversified asset management, focused investment banking capabilities, and personal and corporate banking services in Switzerland. The firm focuses on businesses that have a strong competitive position in their target markets, are capital efficient and have an attractive long-term structural growth or profitability outlook.
UBS is present in all major financial centers worldwide. It has offices in more than 50 regions and locations, with about 30% of its employees working in the Americas, 29% in Switzerland, 20% in the rest of Europe, the Middle East and Africa and 21% in Asia Pacific. UBS Group AG employs more than 72,000 people around the world. Its shares are listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange and the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE).
Media Contact:
Deanna Werner
Pierpont Communications
713-627-2223
© UBS 2022. All rights reserved. The key symbol and UBS are among the registered and unregistered trademarks of UBS. Although neither UBS Financial Services Inc. or its employees pay a fee in exchange for these ratings, UBS may hire RJ Shook to be a speaker for events. Past performance is not an indication of future results.
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SOURCE UBS Global Wealth Management | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/09/09/three-ubs-advisors-houston-area-named-among-forbesshook-research-top-next-gen-wealth-advisors/ | 2022-09-09T19:12:22Z |
COVID-19 hospitalizations back to March levels
Published: Jul. 18, 2022 at 9:32 AM CDT|Updated: 13 minutes ago
(CNN) - COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations and deaths are on the rise across the country.
John Hopkins University said average daily cases have more than tripled over the past three months. Meanwhile, federal government data shows current hospitalizations surpassed 40,000 for the first time in about four months.
John Hopkins University found the average number of daily deaths has risen above 400 for the first time in two months.
More than half of the U.S. population lives in a county with a high COVID-19 community level. If you live in one of those counties, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends wearing a mask indoors.
Copyright 2022 CNN Newsource. All rights reserved. | https://www.kxii.com/2022/07/18/covid-19-hospitalizations-back-march-levels/ | 2022-07-18T14:47:29Z |
NEW YORK, July 19, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Sumitomo Corporation of Americas ("SCOA") announced today its investment in TAE Technologies ("TAE"), a fusion power company and world leader in hydrogen-boron fusion research. The investment will help fund the construction of TAE's next research reactor, "Copernicus" and accelerate SCOA's implementation of fusion power in Japan and Asia as part of the company's strategy to help realize a carbon-neutral society.
Fusion power is expected to be a next-generation baseload power source. Considering this, the Japanese government is promoting the research and development of fusion technology as a non-carbon power source and moving toward formulating a nuclear fusion strategy. To support the evolving energy market, Sumitomo Corporation established its Energy Innovation Initiative ("EII") in April 2021, and has set "development and deployment of carbon-free energy" as one of the key strategies. Through this investment in TAE, Sumitomo Corporation will deepen its understanding of fusion power generation technology with the intent of leveraging its experience and business network to apply this resource across multiple markets and sectors, aiding in the decarbonization of society.
"We look forward to being a partner in bringing TAE's clean energy solutions to the Asian market, which will be paramount to sustaining local economies without impacting our planet," said Sandro Hasegawa, General Manager, Energy Innovation Initiative Americas at Sumitomo Corporation Of Americas. "We are pleased to support TAE's groundbreaking fusion technology to create safe, sustainable energy sources across multiple industries and applications."
Since 1998, TAE has worked toward delivering cost-competitive, environmentally benign hydrogen-boron fusion. Its fifth-generation reactor, Norman, was unveiled in 2017 and designed to keep plasma stable at 30 million degrees Celsius. After five years of experiments to optimize Norman's performance, the machine has proven capable of sustaining stable plasma at more than 75 million degrees Celsius, 250% higher than its original goal. TAE's approach differs from other nuclear fusion technologies in development because of its unique combination of plasma physics and accelerator physics. In addition, TAE's preferred fuel source of abundant hydrogen-boron will not have environmental impact, particulate emissions, radioactivity or fuel scarcity.
Fusion reactions are the same source of energy found on the Sun. TAE's technology recreates this reaction to produce energy that is non-radioactive, creating the fastest, most practical, and economically competitive solution to bring abundant carbon-free energy to the grid. TAE's Copernicus reactor is designed to demonstrate the viability of achieving net energy generation with TAE's advanced beam-driven field-reversed configuration (FRC) – the penultimate step on TAE's path to commercialize clean fusion power.
"The caliber and interest of our investors validates our significant technical progress and supports our goal to begin commercialization of fusion by the end of this decade," said Michl Binderbauer, CEO of TAE Technologies. "Global energy demand is growing exponentially, and we have a moral obligation to do our utmost to develop a baseload power solution that is safe, carbon-free, and economically viable."
About TAE Technologies
TAE Technologies (pronounced T-A-E) was founded in 1998 to develop commercial fusion power with the cleanest environmental profile. The company's pioneering work represents the fastest, most practical, and economically competitive solution to bring abundant clean energy to the grid. With 1,800 patents filed globally and over 1,100 granted, $1.2 billion in private capital raised, five generations of National Laboratory-scale devices built and two more in development, and an experienced team of over 400 employees, TAE is now on the cusp of delivering this transformational energy source capable of sustaining the planet for thousands of years.
The company's revolutionary technologies have produced a robust portfolio of commercial innovations in large adjacent markets such as power management, energy storage, transmission, electric mobility, life sciences, and more. TAE is based in California, and maintains international offices in the UK and Switzerland. Multidisciplinary and mission-driven by nature, TAE is leveraging proprietary science and engineering to create a bright future.
For more information, visit tae.com; for interviews contact press@tae.com
About Sumitomo Corporation of Americas
Established in 1952 and headquartered in New York City, Sumitomo Corporation of Americas (SCOA) has eight offices in major U.S. cities. SCOA is the largest subsidiary of Sumitomo Corporation, one of the world's leading traders of goods and services. As an integrated business enterprise, the firm has emerged as a major organizer of multinational projects, an expediter of ideas, an important international investor and financier, and a powerful force for distribution of products and global communications through a network of offices worldwide. Its core business units include Tubular Products, Environment and Infrastructure, Steel and Non Ferrous Metals, Transportation and Construction Systems, Chemicals and Electronics, Media and IOT Applications, Real Estate, Mineral Resources and Energy, and Food. For more information, visit www.sumitomocorp.com
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SOURCE Sumitomo Corporation of Americas | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/07/19/sumitomo-corporation-americas-invests-tae-technologies-funds-next-gen-fusion-reactor-accelerate-decarbonization/ | 2022-07-19T15:18:59Z |
Ken Crutchfield will join esteemed industry experts to discuss the shifting dynamics between law firms and corporate counsel, technology's impacts on the legal industry, and more
NEW YORK, Sept. 8, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Ken Crutchfield, Vice President & General Manager of Legal Markets at Wolters Kluwer Legal & Regulatory U.S., will moderate a panel to mark the release of the highly anticipated Wolters Kluwer Future Ready Lawyer 2022 Survey Report. The webinar, titled "Future Ready Lawyer 2022: Changing Client & Law Firm Expectations," will take place on Wednesday, September 14, 12pm – 1pm ET.
Crutchfield will present key findings from this year's survey, which explores the evolving demands on legal professionals, technology's role in the practice of law, shifting workplace trends within the industry, and more. The webinar will feature several acclaimed industry leaders, including Mark W. Brennan, Tech and Telecoms Sector Group Leader at Hogan Lovells; Jennifer Dixon, Research and Learning Librarian at Cleary Gottlieb and Adjunct Professor at Fordham University's School of Law; Dennis Garcia, Assistant General Counsel at Microsoft; Marc Lemberg, General Counsel at Strategic Financial Solutions; Nikki Shaver, CEO and Co-founder at Legaltech Hub and Adjunct Professor at Cardozo School of Law; and Richard Tromans, Founder at Artificial Lawyer, Founding Consultant at Tromans Consulting and Founder and Chair at the Changing Legal Think Tank.
"The Wolters Kluwer Future Ready Lawyer 2022 Survey Report offers a unique perspective into the significant forces of change that legal professionals are facing and their implications for the profession," said Crutchfield. "This webinar will shed light on key findings from this year's report and provide valuable insight from industry leaders on how legal professionals and organizations can implement change and drive innovation to effectively prepare for the future."
The Wolters Kluwer Future Ready Lawyer 2022 Survey Report was conducted online by a global independent research firm on behalf of Wolters Kluwer Legal & Regulatory, with insights drawn from legal professionals in law firms, corporate legal departments, and business services firms. The survey covers trends affecting lawyers, the future of law as the industry overall undergoes a significant transformation, and how well-prepared legal organizations are to drive higher performance. One of the notable topics from this year's report is trends in talent, with 69% of corporate lawyers expecting to work remotely from home all or part of the time going forward. The full survey report will be released on September 14.
To register for the webinar and learn more, visit: Future Ready Lawyer 2022: Changing Client & Law Firm Expectations
Wolters Kluwer (WKL) is a global leader in professional information, software solutions, and services for the healthcare; tax and accounting; governance, risk, and compliance; and legal and regulatory sectors. We help our customers make critical decisions every day by providing expert solutions that combine deep domain knowledge with specialized technology and services.
Wolters Kluwer reported 2021 annual revenues of €4.8 billion. The group serves customers in over 180 countries, maintains operations in over 40 countries, and employs approximately 19,800 people worldwide. The company is headquartered in Alphen aan den Rijn, the Netherlands.
Wolters Kluwer shares are listed on Euronext Amsterdam (WKL) and are included in the AEX and Euronext 100 indices. Wolters Kluwer has a sponsored Level 1 American Depositary Receipt (ADR) program. The ADRs are traded on the over-the-counter market in the U.S. (WTKWY).
For more information, visit www.wolterskluwer.com, follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Linda Gharib
Director, Brand & Communications
Wolters Kluwer Legal & Regulatory U.S.
Tel: +1 (646) 887-7962
Email: lrusmedia@wolterskluwer.com
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SOURCE Wolters Kluwer Legal & Regulatory U.S. | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/09/08/wolters-kluwer-thought-leader-moderate-webinar-launch-wolters-kluwer-future-ready-lawyer-2022-survey-report/ | 2022-09-08T19:52:42Z |
Daily aspirin provides little benefit, study says
(CNN) - For years, daily low-dose aspirin was recommended to prevent heart attack and stroke.
Scientists now say they see little benefit for most healthy people and say it may contribute to a risk of bleeding in your stomach or brain that goes up as you get older.
The latest recommendations are from the U.S. Preventive Service Task Force.
The group said people older than 60 shouldn’t start taking a daily aspirin for primary prevention of heart problems in most cases.
If you’re between 40 and 59 years old, the group leaves it up to you and your doctor to decide whether you should take a daily aspirin in specific circumstances.
If you’ve had a heart attack, a stroke or other heart or circulation problems and your doctor has put you on daily aspirin, don’t stop taking it.
Instead, talk with them about what the new recommendations mean for you.
The recommendations were published Tuesday in the medical journal JAMA.
Copyright 2022 CNN Newsource. All rights reserved. | https://www.wibw.com/2022/04/26/daily-aspirin-provides-little-benefit-study-says/ | 2022-04-26T18:47:01Z |
NEW YORK, July 18, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- MFA Financial, Inc. (NYSE: MFA) plans to host a live audio webcast of its investor conference call on Thursday, August 4, 2022, at 11:00 a.m. (Eastern Time) to discuss its second quarter 2022 financial results, which are scheduled to be announced earlier that day.
The live audio webcast will be accessible to the general public over the internet at http://www.mfafinancial.com by clicking on the "Webcasts & Presentations" link on MFA's home page. To listen to the conference call over the internet, please go to the MFA website at least 15 minutes before the call to register and to download and install any needed audio software. Earnings presentation materials will be posted on the MFA website prior to the conference call and an audio replay will be available on the website following the call.
MFA Financial, Inc. is a leading specialty finance company that invests in and finances residential mortgage assets. MFA invests, on a leveraged basis, in residential whole loans, residential mortgage-backed securities and other real estate assets. Through its subsidiaries, MFA also originates and services business purpose loans for real estate investors. MFA is an internally-managed, publicly-traded real estate investment trust.
Category: Earnings
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SOURCE MFA Financial, Inc. | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/07/18/mfa-financial-inc-plans-live-audio-webcast-second-quarter-2022-earnings-conference-call/ | 2022-07-18T20:44:08Z |
NEW YORK, Aug. 16, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Klein Law Firm announces that a class action complaint has been filed on behalf of shareholders of Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ: AMZN) alleging that the Company violated federal securities laws.
This lawsuit is on behalf of all persons or entities that purchased or otherwise acquired shares of Amazon common stock between July 30, 2021, and April 28, 2022, inclusive.
Lead Plaintiff Deadline: September 6, 2022
No obligation or cost to you.
Learn more about your recoverable losses in AMZN:
https://www.kleinstocklaw.com/pslra-1/amazon-com-inc-loss-submission-form-2?id=30842&from=4
Amazon.com, Inc. NEWS - AMZN NEWS
CLASS ACTION CASE DETAILS: The filed complaint alleges that Amazon.com, Inc. made materially false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: 1) defendants knew or recklessly disregarded that the Company's infrastructure and fulfillment network investments substantially outpaced demand; 2) those investments were a massive, self-imposed, undue drain on Amazon's financial condition; 3) contrary to defendants' public statements and undisclosed to investors, defendants had already implemented cutbacks to Amazon's fulfillment capacity by July 2021; and 4) as a result of defendants' misrepresentations and omissions, Amazon's common stock traded at artificially inflated prices during the class period.
WHAT THIS MEANS TO YOU AS A SHAREHOLDER: If you have suffered a loss in Amazon you have until September 6, 2022 to petition the court for lead plaintiff status. Your ability to share in any recovery doesn't require that you serve as a lead plaintiff.
NO COST TO YOU: If you purchased Amazon securities during the relevant period, you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out-of-pocket fees.
HOW TO PROTECT YOUR FINANCIAL INTERESTS: For additional information about the AMZN lawsuit, please contact J. Klein, Esq. by telephone at 212-616-4899 or click this link: https://www.kleinstocklaw.com/pslra-1/amazon-com-inc-loss-submission-form-2?id=30842&from=4.
ABOUT KLEIN LAW FIRM
J. Klein, Esq. represents investors and participates in securities litigations involving financial fraud throughout the nation. The Klein Law Firm is a boutique litigation firm with experience in a wide range of areas including securities law, corporate finance and commercial litigation. Since 2011, our experienced attorneys have achieved superior results for our clients with a personalized focus. Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.
CONTACT:
J. Klein, Esq.
Empire State Building
350 Fifth Avenue
59th Floor
New York, NY 10118
jk@kleinstocklaw.com
Telephone: (212) 616-4899
www.kleinstocklaw.com
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SOURCE The Klein Law Firm | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/08/16/amzn-alert-klein-law-firm-announces-lead-plaintiff-deadline-september-6-2022-class-action-filed-behalf-amazoncom-inc-shareholders/ | 2022-08-16T10:21:39Z |
SHENZHEN, China, April 26, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- SonoScape Medical Corp. today announced the release of S-Fetus 4.0, the latest software upgrade of the company's flagship ultrasound product offering. This technical breakthrough marks S-Fetus 4.0 as the globally first smart obstetric screening technology based on deep learning.
Leveraging the deep learning techniques, the S-Fetus 4.0 Obstetric Screening Assistant allows doctors to automatically acquire standard planes and measure fetal biometry with fast performance and accuracy. Without the need for manually repetitive operation of the device, the system was designed with one-click simple touch to streamline the sonogram pocess and improve scanning efficiency. "Our obstetric screening assistant has achieved breakthroughs in terms of performance and scalability and now it can offer more efficient means of smart obstetric diagnosis that assist doctors in precise work to ensure better patient outcomes", said Zhou Guoyi, Head of SonoScape Medical Innovation Research Center.
To improve service capability, SonoScape applied this newly upgrade to a variety of high-end ultrasound equipment. The S-Fetus 4.0 is going to run on SonoScape S60, P60, P60 Exp, S50 Elite, P50 Elite and P40 Elite, both in the North America and ROW Region. "With our commitment to the independent R&D and innovation of medical equipment, our cutting edge technology has been able to realize its potential to serve medical institutions around the world", commented Naizhang Feng, Vice President of SonoScape Ultrasound Division.
The S-Fetus 4.0 Obstetric Screening Assistant is powered by Intel® oneAPI Toolkits, for more information please check https://www.intel.com/content/www/us/en/healthcare-it/resources/sonoscape-oneapi-brief.html
About SonoScape
Founded in 2002 in Shenzhen China, SonoScape has committed itself to "Caring for Life through Innovation" by providing ultrasound and endoscopy solutions. With seamless support, SonoScape provides worldwide sales and service in more than 130 countries, benefiting local hospitals and doctors with comprehensive imaging diagnostic evidence and technical support. Investing 20% of total revenue into R&D annually, SonoScape establishes seven R&D centers in Shenzhen, Shanghai, Harbin, Wuhan, Tokyo, Seattle, and Silicon Valley, with more advanced products to be introduced into the pipeline.
For more information, please visit us at https://sonoscape.com/.
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SOURCE SonoScape Medical Corporation | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/04/26/sonoscape-s-fetus-40-release-simplify-sonography-process/ | 2022-04-26T11:12:23Z |
LOS ANGELES, June 29, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Discovery Behavioral Health, Inc., an expanding network of evidence-based mental health, substance use and eating disorder treatment centers, has appointed David Semanco as Program Director of New Life Addiction Counseling & Mental Health Services in Pasadena, Maryland, just outside of Annapolis.
Semanco is a Master Addiction Counselor specializing in the application of complementary therapies to enhance the addiction treatment and recovery process. He transitioned into the addiction treatment field in 2002 following successful careers in information technology and music. He continues to incorporate technology and music into clinical practice as evidenced by his work with neurofeedback and music therapy.
New Life is an outpatient co-occurring disorders center, providing treatment tailored to strengthen those who are struggling with substance abuse, drug and alcohol addiction along with the mental health issues that can contribute to the addiction. By offering a variety of treatment tactics—from outpatient group therapy and 12-step program recommendations to medication-assisted treatment (MAT)— patients can begin recognizing their behaviors, identify challenges, and develop a healthy lifestyle.
A graduate of the prestigious Berklee College of Music in Boston, Semanco says his journey to the behavioral health profession began in the 1980s when a professor lent him his "newfangled Apple personal computer" to complete his Master's degree thesis. Realizing he had a knack for conveying complex information into layman's term, he soon found himself helping academic colleagues learn the nascent field of computer science. Eventually, he earned another Master's degree in Human Services with an emphasis in Addiction Treatment
"If there's a common thread running through my career, it's that I like to help people," he says.
Samanco has worked in hospital, residential and outpatient settings, providing direct care and developing programs for adolescents and adults. Over the past two decades he's seen a major shift in the public's perception of substance use disorder.
"There's been a definite shift away from stigmatizing alcohol and drug addiction as a moral failing and toward the realization that it is a chronic brain disease. Likewise, treatment has moved from a singular focus on changing behavior or changing 'bad people to good people' to addressing brain chemistry as the root cause," he says.
Known for his ability to create and nurture strong yet compassionate multidisciplinary clinical teams, he is the 2020 recipient of William "Bill" Callahan Award by the Association of Addiction Professions (NAADAC) for sustained mission to increase awareness of addiction and advocacy for prevention, treatment and recovery support at the national level.
"David's extraordinary career, varied life experience and his pioneering work in neurofeedback all complement our company's commitment to innovative treatment methods," says John Peloquin, CEO and President of DBH.
About Discovery Behavioral Health
Everyone deserves a happy, rewarding life. That's why Discovery Behavioral Health has made evidence-based, outcome driven healthcare accessible and affordable since inception. With a full continuum of care – detoxification, medical residences, residential treatment centers, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient, outpatient, psychiatric and addiction medicine, TMS, virtual and telehealth services, we can offer the right care at the right time for adults or teens struggling with mental health, substance use or eating disorders. We are a contracted provider with 100 payers and other managed care organizations. Our portfolio of more than 130 treatment centers includes service lines in successful operation since 1985. When treatment is complete, our patients become part of Discovery's growing family of alumni, connected through free aftercare programs, support groups, activities, and a caring community. Because when quality behavioral healthcare is within reach, so is happiness.
Press Contact:
Greg Ptacek
Communications
Discovery Behavioral Health, Inc.
323-841-8002 mobile
gPtacek@discoverybh.com
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SOURCE Discovery Behavioral Health | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/06/29/discovery-behavioral-health-appoints-david-semanco-program-director-new-life-treatment-center-maryland/ | 2022-06-29T23:14:50Z |
Coachmen Apex is Known for their LightWeight Luxury RVs that are Loaded with Amenities
LEXINGTON, N.C., Aug. 15, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The founders of Country Roads RV Center are proud to announce that they have been an authorized dealer for the Coachmen Apex line of RVs for 11 years.
To learn more about Country Roads RV Center, please visit. https://www.crrvc.com/apex-rv-dealer-by-country-roads-rv-center/
As a company spokesperson noted, since Country Roads RV Center opened its doors in 2008 the company has strived to offer only the highest quality, 5th wheels, travel trailers, and toy haulers.
Now, as one of the largest dealers in the state, Country Roads RV Center has grown to offer a full service and parts department. The family-owned and operated dealership strives to give their customers the most enjoyable experience possible.
"Our mission is to provide high-quality new and used RVs to our customers. At the same time, we understand that travel trailers, 5th wheels, and motorhomes are not created equally. Because of this, we do a thorough analysis of new product lines we carry prior to making the decision to place them in our inventory," the spokesperson noted, adding that after reviewing the Apex makes and models, it was an easy decision to add these outstanding RVs to their lineup of products
The Apex 245BHS is a unique 7'6" wide bunk floorplan that weighs only 4600 pounds. It has 2 oversize bunks and a u-shaped dinette in the deep slide. Great plan for a young family.
As the family grows, step up to the new 256BHS with more room, a larger slide, and a full-size sofa. Both plans have outside kitchens.
As one of the largest dealers in the state, Country Roads RV Center carries many different lines of 5th Wheels, Travel-Trailers, and Toy Haulers, as well as a full service and parts department. Family-owned and operated, they strive to give their customers the most enjoyable experience possible. For more information, please visit https://www.crrvc.com.
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SOURCE Country Roads RV Center, Inc. | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/08/15/country-roads-rv-center-celebrates-11-years-an-authorized-dealer-coachmen-apex/ | 2022-08-15T23:27:35Z |
Baby strollers recalled due to potential injury to children's fingers
(Gray News) – A brand that makes baby gear is recalling one of its strollers due to potential injury from the stroller’s disc brakes.
UPPAbaby is recalling the All-Terrain Ridge Jogging Strollers because of the possibility for a child to injure their fingers by putting them in the openings in the disc brakes while the stroller is in use.
The strollers were sold at BuyBuyBaby, NordStrom, Neiman Marcus, Pottery Barn Kids and other specialty and children’s stores nationwide. They were also sold online at Amazon.com for about $600 from October 2021 through August 2022.
The strollers have an extended canopy with a mesh window and zipper pocket, a disc handbrake system, and an adjustable handlebar with a wrist strap. The brand UPPAbaby is on the front of the stroller, with RIDGE written on the side of the stroller’s frame.
They also have a black frame and a fabric color scheme that is white, charcoal, or slate blue, and have black tires.
The serial number of the strollers appear on the right side of the frame above the rear wheel and begin with “1401RDGUS.” The model number is printed on the left side of the stroller frame above the rear wheel and reads “1401-RDG-US.”
The Consumer Product Safety Commission says there has been one report of a child injuring a finger, resulting in the amputation of the child’s fingertip. The child was also outside of the stroller when the injury occurred.
If you own one of the strollers, you are urged to stop using the stroller immediately and contact UPPAbaby for the free replacement of the brake discs for both wheels.
Copyright 2022 Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved. | https://www.mysuncoast.com/2022/09/04/baby-strollers-recalled-due-potential-injury-childrens-fingers/ | 2022-09-05T00:21:52Z |
The non-profit will help fund essential, cutting-edge research in the areas of heart disease, health equity, ovarian and uterine cancer and gynecologic and obstetric care
CHICAGO, June 23, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Friends of Prentice (FOP), a non-profit organization that works with Northwestern Medicine Prentice Women's Hospital to fund the future of women's healthcare, announces today their annual grant recipients. These five critical research projects are focused on heart disease, health equity, ovarian and uterine cancer and gynecologic and obstetric care. The funds given from FOP will help push this essential research forward.
"A focus on women's health has never been more important and at Friends of Prentice we are committed to continuing to raise money for innovative healthcare research," said Kristen Field, Executive Director, Friends of Prentice. "This life changing research will continue our mission at Friends of Prentice to improve the overall health of women at all ages and stages of their life."
The five projects chosen represent a variety of disciplines and serve a wide range of women. Recipients include:
- Metabolomic Signatures and Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes:
Pregnancy represents a state of significant psychosocial and metabolic stress, which can contribute to preterm birth, preeclampsia, and other issues. Exposed to multiple acute and chronic stressors, pregnant persons of low socioeconomic status experience significant disparities in these clinical outcomes. Metabolomics may provide new insight into biological mechanisms that link stress with these adverse outcomes, reveal biomarkers for their prediction and early detection, and identify key nodes for improving our approach to diagnosis, treatment, and prevention, especially among socioeconomically disadvantaged pregnant persons at greatest risk. Principal investigators include Stephanie Fisher, MD, MPH and Lynn M Yee, MD, MPH. - Post-Surgery Intermittent Fasting for Chemotherapy Patients: Standard of care treatment for uterine and ovarian cancers is toxic with the potential for devastating side effects. At-home chemotherapy medications are often given to combat symptoms, but there are limited interventions available to help patients further. Preliminary studies in cancer patients who underwent energy restriction during the time of chemotherapy suggest diet modification may positively impact side effects and toxicity, but the effect of alternate day fasting after front-line chemotherapy has never been tested. This study will focus on the impact of intermittent fasting in patients undergoing treatment for advanced uterine and ovarian cancers. The principal investigator is Jenna Z. Marcus, MD.
- Mobile Interventions to Prevent Heart Disease After Pregnancy: Heart disease is the leading cause of death in women in the United States. Individuals who newly develop high blood pressure (BP) during pregnancy have a higher risk of heart problems, as well as abnormal heart ultrasounds in the first year postpartum. Solutions are needed to enhance postpartum monitoring of cardiovascular health and optimize heart-healthy behaviors in these high-risk individuals. This study will test two complementary digital health interventions in women with a history of high BP during pregnancy – a Bluetooth-enabled remote monitoring program and a mobile health lifestyle change application – with the goal to improve BPs and heart ultrasounds at one year postpartum. The principal investigator is Priya M. Freaney, MD.
- Uterine Evacuation Curriculum to Improve Dilation and Curettage: Surgical uterine evacuation is a pillar of standard gynecologic and obstetric care. A large proportion of this skill acquisition occurs through abortion training. Currently, the state of access to safe abortion care in the United States is being debated. This FOP grant will fund the development of enhancements to the training of Ob/Gyn residents in uterine evacuations so that physicians are better equipped to deliver safe and equitable healthcare to women. Principal investigators include Kerry Caputo, MD, Resident and Ashley Turner, MD.
- Impact of Chemotherapy on Ovarian Cancer DNA Damage & Repair: Ovarian cancer is the deadliest gynecologic cancer, affecting nearly 20,000 women yearly in the United States. Standard treatment is grueling, involving harsh chemotherapy, surgery, and more chemotherapy, with a high rate of recurrence. Often, when the cancer recurs, it has developed resistance to chemotherapy. This study will investigate the ways in which tumors develop this resistance in order to develop methods to overcome it or alter the treatment plan. Understanding the molecular changes that occur in ovarian cancer cells as a result of chemotherapy may identify new treatment strategies and improve outcomes and quality of life for women afflicted with this deadly disease. The principal investigator is Dario Roque, MD.
Since 1983, Friends of Prentice has raised over $20 million and awarded annual grants to more than 100 innovative researchers and clinical programs. Projects have involved women-focused areas such as gynecologic oncology, mental health, heart disease, disparities in access to care, diabetes, HIV, uterine and pelvic medicine, genetic biomarker research, home health care outreach and more. Recipients have applied funding toward research, education and patient care programs as they continue their quest to improve women's healthcare across all socio-economic, racial and gender identity backgrounds.
For more information about Friends of Prentice or how to get involved or support the organization, please visit www.friendsofprentice.org
Media Contacts:
Megan Richards Martin
773-517-1826
megan@pageonepublicrelations.com
Natalie Stanichuk
312-420-2225
natalie@pageonepublicrelations.com
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SOURCE Friends of Prentice | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/06/23/friends-prentice-awards-more-than-350000-grant-recipients/ | 2022-06-23T14:52:36Z |
TAIZHOU, China, April 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The board of directors of Jiangsu Recbio Technology Co., Ltd. (the "Company", together with its subsidiaries, the "Group",Stock code:2179.HK) is pleased to announce that, on April 9, 2022, the Company has received the European Union (EU) Qualified Person Declaration issued by a Qualified Person ("QP") for the Group's manufacturing facility for its recombinant protein COVID-19 vaccine, ReCOV ("ReCOV") in Taizhou, the People's Republic of China (the "PRC").
Pursuant to Eudralex Vol 4 regulations (EU Good Manufacturing Practice) and the guiding principles of International Council for Harmonisation of Technical Requirements for Registration of Pharmaceuticals for Human Use (ICH), Parenteral Drug Association (PDA) and International Society for Pharmaceutical Engineering (ISPE), etc., this EU QP audit mainly focused on the bulk and preparation of antigen and the novel adjuvant BFA03, covering manufacturing management system, quality management system, production equipment and facility management system, validation and computerized systems, material management systems, product testing and release management and other aspects of a comprehensive systematic and in-depth inspection. This signifies the Group's manufacturing facility in Taizhou and its quality management system have met EU GMP standards, laying a solid foundation for the high-quality development and future international commercialisation of ReCOV.
ReCOV is a recombinant COVID-19 vaccine being developed by the Group with its technology platforms including the novel adjuvant and protein engineering platforms. Based on the relevant studies conducted by the Group, ReCOV has shown favourable neutralizing effect and immune persistence against variants including Omicron variant and Delta variant. Clinical data from the Group's phase I trial for ReCOV in New Zealand also showed that it has an overall favorable safety profile and may potentially induce similar or higher level of neutralizing antibodies than other marketed mRNA COVID-19 vaccines and vaccine candidates.
About Recbio
Recbio is an innovative vaccine company founded in 2012. With the vision of "Become the Leader of Innovative Vaccine in the Future," Recbio takes "Protect Human Health with Best-in-Class Vaccines" as its mission. It has established three major cutting-edge technology platforms including novel adjuvants platform, protein engineering platform, and immunological evaluation platform. Recbio has a high-value vaccine portfolio consisted of HPV vaccine candidates, COVID-19 vaccine candidates, shingles vaccine candidates, influenza vaccine candidates, adults TB vaccine candidates etc. The core management team has more than 20 years of experience in the development and commercialization of innovative vaccines. For more information, please visit https://www.recbio.cn/.
About Recombinant Two-Component COVID-19 Vaccine (ReCOV)
In May 2020, Recbio, together with Jiangsu Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention ("Jiangsu CDC") and Taizhou Medical New & High-tech Industrial Development Zone, jointly developed a recombinant two-component COVID-19 vaccine(ReCOV). Under the guidance of Professor Fengcai Zhu from the Jiangsu CDC, the R&D team thoroughly optimized the vaccine using protein engineering and new adjuvant technologies, so that ReCOV has promising safety and strong immunogenicity against SARS-CoV-2 and variants of concern such as Omicorn and Delta. A series of comprehensive advantages such as better cross-protection against emerging variants, easy scale-up of production, cost advantages, worldwide accessibility, good preparation stability, and storage and transportation at room temperature which become a very competitive second-generation new COVID-19 vaccine.
Forward-Looking Statements
This news release may contain certain forward-looking statements that are, by their nature, subject to significant risks and uncertainties. The words "anticipate", "believe", "estimate", "expect", "intend" and similar expressions, as they relate to Recbio, are intended to identify certain of such forward-looking statements. Recbio does not intend to update these forward-looking statements regularly.
These forward-looking statements are based on the existing beliefs, assumptions, expectations, estimates, projections and understandings of the management of Recbio with respect to future events at the time these statements are made. These statements are not a guarantee of future developments and are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors, some of which are beyond Recbio's control and are difficult to predict. Consequently, actual results may differ materially from information contained in the forward-looking statements as a result of future changes or developments in our business, Recbio's competitive environment and political, economic, legal and social conditions.
Jiangsu Recbio Technology Co., Ltd.
Investor Inquiry:
Email: ir@recbio.cn
Tel: +86-0523-86818860
Media Inquiry:
Email: media@recbio.cn
Tel: +86-0523-86818860
Related Links:
https://www.recbio.cn/
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SOURCE Jiangsu Recbio Technology Co., Ltd. | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/04/11/successful-passing-eu-qualified-person-audit-groups-manufacturing-facility-recov-taizhou/ | 2022-04-11T08:44:22Z |
The Board's counsel will ensure second home co-ownership benefits both owners and communities
SAN FRANCISCO, July 25, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Pacaso, the leading technology-enabled real estate marketplace that helps people buy and co-own a luxury second home, today announced the formation of a Government Advisory Board to shape the company's actions on housing policy, community engagement and growth.
The news was first reported by Protocol and announced in a blog post from Pacaso.
Pacaso was founded to address problems created by the traditional second home, which is often a median priced single family home that sits empty about 90% of the time. High demand for second homes caused by the pandemic and remote work have resulted in low inventory and high prices for single family homes in many destination communities.
"One significant, but less-discussed, contributor to the housing crisis is a wasteful legacy model of second-home ownership," said Colin Tooze, Pacaso's Vice President of Public Affairs. "While no company can solve this complex set of problems on its own, Pacaso offers a sustainable alternative that combines multiple families into one luxury home."
Pacaso takes up to eight buyers and puts them in one home. Those up to eight buyers were looking for single family homes in the community. Instead, they share one luxury home. This means less competition for single family homes, more spending at local businesses, and more tax revenue, according to economists at EBP who studied Pacaso's impact in five U.S. communities.
The Board's expert counsel will ensure a long-term future for second home co-ownership that benefits both second home owners and communities.
"With a diverse, bipartisan membership from current and former elected officials and regulators with deep experience addressing emerging public policy issues," Tooze added, "the Board is ideally-suited to advise Pacaso on how best to work with governments and community leaders."
"Pacaso's innovative second home co-ownership model is a value-add to communities across the United States," said Steve Benjamin, former Mayor of Columbia, SC and past President of the U.S. Conference of Mayors. "Pacaso consolidates second home demand into fewer homes, taking pressure off of housing inventory for first-time home buyers and middle class families. This is the thoughtful and sustainable approach to housing we need right now, and I'm proud to help advise the company as it works to bring this model to more communities."
The inaugural members of Pacaso's Government Advisory Board are:
- Steve Benjamin (Chair)
Former Mayor of Columbia, SC and past President of the US Conference of Mayors - Steve Adler
Mayor of Austin, Texas - Michael Hancock
Mayor of Denver, Colorado - Danny Perez
Member, Florida House of Representatives - Alexis Podesta
Former California Secretary of Business, Consumer Services, and Housing
Pacaso® is a technology-enabled marketplace that modernizes real estate co-ownership to make owning a second home possible and enjoyable for more people. Pacaso curates luxury listings with premium amenities and high-end contemporary interior design, offers ⅛ to ½ ownership with integrated financing, and, after purchase, professionally manages the home and supports seamless resale. Co-founded by Austin Allison and Spencer Rascoff in 2020, Pacaso operates in top second home destinations around the world. Pacaso has been certified as a Great Place to Work and is recognized as one of Glassdoor's 2022 Best Places to Work.
For more information about Pacaso and to view luxury second home listings, visit www.pacaso.com or download the Pacaso app for Android or iPhone. You can also follow Pacaso on social media @PacasoHomes on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and YouTube or @Pacaso_Homes on TikTok.
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SOURCE Pacaso | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/07/25/pacaso-announces-government-advisory-board/ | 2022-07-25T16:07:25Z |
- Annual home price growth shifted from deceleration to decline in July as the median home price fell 0.77% from June – the largest single-month decline since January 2011
- More than 85% of the 50 largest U.S. markets are at least marginally off their peaks through July, with home prices down by >1% in a third, and more than one in 10 seeing prices fall by 4% or more
- Tappable equity – the amount a homeowner can borrow against while keeping a 20% equity stake – hit its 10th consecutive record high in Q2 2022 at $11.5T but appears to have peaked in May of this year
- Escalating declines in June and July have total tappable equity down 5% over the past two months, suggesting a sizeable reduction is likely in Q3, which would mark the first quarterly decline in three years
- In some markets, equity pullbacks have quickly become fairly significant, with the five most equity-rich West Coast markets shedding 10-20% of previously available tappable equity from April through July
- The impact of home price declines is twice as pronounced on tappable equity levels; a 5% decline in home values nationally would equate to a 10% decline in tappable equity, and so on.
- Overall, the market is on strong footing to weather a correction; total market leverage as of Q2 – including both first and second liens – was just 42% of mortgaged homes' values, the lowest on record
JACKSONVILLE, Fla., Sept. 7, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, the Data & Analytics division of Black Knight, Inc. (NYSE: BKI) released its latest Mortgage Monitor Report, based upon the company's industry-leading mortgage, real estate and public records datasets. The most recent data from the Black Knight Home Price Index shows the deceleration in home price growth on which the company has been reporting in recent months has shifted to actual decline. As Black Knight Data & Analytics President Ben Graboske explains, July's month-over-month decline represents the first such contraction in nearly three years.
"After 31 consecutive months of growth, home prices pulled back by 0.77% in July," said Graboske. "Annual home price appreciation still came in at over 14%, but in a market characterized by as much volatility and rapid change as today's, such backward-looking metrics can be misleading as they can mask more current, pressing realities. Case in point – this cooling has been indicated in our home price data for several months now, and at an increasing pace. In January, prices rose at 28 times their normal monthly rate before slowing to five times average in February as interest rates began to tick up. Even May was still about two times normal, before June growth came in 70% below the long-run average. And all the while, annual appreciation continued to appear historically strong, showing double-digit growth month after month. Without timely, granular data, market-moving trends don't become apparent until they're right in front of you – like a sudden shift to the largest single-month decline in home prices in more than a decade.
"Similarly, while mortgage-holders' tappable equity had grown 25% from last year to hit yet another record high in Q2, we noted that equity actually peaked in May and tracked the pullback that began in June before escalating in July. Tappable equity is now down 5% in the last two months, setting up Q3 to likely see the first quarterly decline in tappable equity since 2019. Some of the nation's most equity-rich markets have seen significant pullbacks, most notably among key West Coast metros. From April through July, San Jose lost 20% of its tappable equity. Seattle followed, shedding 18% of tappable equity over that same three-month span. Likewise, San Diego (-14%), San Francisco (-14%) and Los Angeles (-10%) have all seen double-digit declines since April. Keep in mind that of the roughly 275K borrowers who would fall underwater from a 5% price decline, more than 80% purchased their homes in the first six months of 2022 – right at what appears to have been the top of the market. With prices continuing to correct and our McDash HELOC data showing home equity lending at its highest level in 12 years, we will keep a very close eye on equity positions in the coming months."
The month's report looks again at the inventory side of the housing supply/demand equation. Falling housing demand continued to allow inventory levels to build for the fifth month in a row, with July marking the third consecutive record-breaking increase. Despite a 128K rise in active listings, inventories remain 622K (45%) below 2017-2019 levels. Black Knight Collateral Analytics data shows 3.1 months' worth of inventory as of the end of July, up from 1.7 months at the beginning of the year. If sales continue to fall at the rate they have the past four months and listings continue to build at their current pace, inventory would cross the six-month threshold by December – typically the point at which the landscape shifts from a seller's to a buyer's market.
Much more localized information on these and other topics can be found in this month's Mortgage Monitor.
The Data & Analytics division of Black Knight manages the nation's leading repository of loan-level residential mortgage data and performance information covering the majority of the overall market, including tens of millions of loans across the spectrum of credit products and more than 160 million historical records. The combined insight of the Black Knight HPI and Collateral Analytics' home price and real estate data provides one of the most complete, accurate and timely measures of home prices available, covering 95% of U.S. residential properties down to the ZIP-code level. In addition, the company maintains one of the most robust public property records databases available, covering 99.9% of the U.S. population and households from more than 3,100 counties.
Black Knight's research experts carefully analyze this data to produce a summary supplemented by dozens of charts and graphs that reflect trend and point-in-time observations for the monthly Mortgage Monitor Report. To review the full report, visit: https://www.blackknightinc.com/data-reports/
Black Knight, Inc. (NYSE:BKI) is an award-winning software, data and analytics company that drives innovation in the mortgage lending and servicing and real estate industries, as well as the capital and secondary markets. Businesses leverage our robust, integrated solutions across the entire homeownership life cycle to help retain existing customers, gain new customers, mitigate risk and operate more effectively.
Our clients rely on our proven, comprehensive, scalable products and our unwavering commitment to delivering superior client support to achieve their strategic goals and better serving their customers. For more information on Black Knight, please visit www.blackknightinc.com/.
For more information:
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SOURCE Black Knight, Inc. | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/09/07/black-knight-against-sharpest-monthly-home-price-drop-11-years-tappable-equity-backs-off-q2-peak-six-10-most-equity-rich-markets-decline-through-july/ | 2022-09-07T13:38:38Z |
Second firearm in second day reported stolen out of Manhattan vehicle
MANHATTAN, Kan. (WIBW) - A second firearm in just as many days has been reported stolen out of another Manhattan vehicle.
The Riley County Police Department says just after 8:30 a.m. on Tuesday, June 7, a 44-year-old man reported to officers that his black Ruger LCR .38 Special revolver was stolen out of his car in the 1700 block of Laramie St.
Officers did note the vehicle had been left unlocked and said the estimated loss of the theft was about $450.
This is the second firearm stolen out of a Manhattan vehicle in just as many days. Just before 7 a.m. on Monday, June 6, a 24-year-old man reported his black Smith & Wesson AR-22 rifle and other items were stolen out of his truck in the 1000 block of Thurston St.
The thefts were about a mile apart from each other. RCPD said there is no evidence that the two thefts are connected.
Anyone with information about the crime has been asked to contact RCPD at 785-537-2112 or the Manhattan Riley Co. Crime Stoppers at 785-539-7777.
Copyright 2022 WIBW. All rights reserved. | https://www.wibw.com/2022/06/08/second-firearm-second-day-reported-stolen-out-manhattan-vehicle/ | 2022-06-08T16:00:11Z |
TEL AVIV, Israel, July 25, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Tikcro Technologies Ltd. (in liquidation) (OTC: TIKRF) today announced that the liquidation trustee has substantially completed the process of winding down the affairs of the Company. The Company has applied for a pre-ruling from the Israel Tax Authority regarding the required rates of withholding tax on the Company's liquidating dividend from various categories of shareholders and is concluding the mechanics of the dividend process. The Company expects to receive the final pre-ruling within the coming months, after which it will commence the process of distributing its remaining cash to its shareholders.
An Extraordinary General Meeting of Shareholders will be held to hear an interim report on the liquidation process from Tikcro's liquidation trustee, Mr. Ran Gurit, CPA. The meeting will be held on Monday, August 15, 2022 at 9:30 a.m. (Israel time), at the office of Goldfarb Seligman & Co., 98 Yigal Alon Street, 40th Floor, Tel Aviv, Israel.
There will be no votes held at the meeting.
About Tikcro Technologies:
Tikcro Technologies Ltd. (OTC: TIKRF) developed certain antibodies selected and verified in pre-clinical trials with a focus on antibodies targeting immune modulator pathways for cancer treatment. For more information, visit Tikcro's website at www.tikcro.com. On April 29, 2021, the shareholders of the Company approved the voluntary liquidation of the Company and appointed a liquidation trustee pursuant to the Israeli Companies Law.
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SOURCE Tikcro Technologies Ltd. | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/07/25/interim-report-liquidation-trustee-tikcro-technologies/ | 2022-07-25T14:13:51Z |
ANNAPOLIS, Md., May 19, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- AeroVanti Airlines and Liquified Creative's PR team have won a 2022 Hermes Creative Gold Award for excellence in media relations.
The Hermes Creative Awards is an international competition for creative professionals involved in the concept, writing, and design of traditional and emerging media.
The award is on behalf of Liquified Creative's public relations efforts surrounding a holiday humanitarian flight campaign with client AeroVanti Airlines, a membership-based private air charter service.
"Supporting our military through community outreach is a principal core value at AeroVanti," said Robert De Pol, Chief Operating Officer of AeroVanti and an active-duty veteran who serves in the U.S. Navy Reserve. "The team at Liquified is a fantastic partner to showcase our commitment to the military and our community at large."
The campaign was centered around a military homecoming. AeroVanti gifted United States Navy Chief Petty Officer Joaquin Ozuna, his veteran wife, and their five children flights to reunite with their family for the holidays. This was the first time the Ozuna family had seen their family in five years.
"Working on the flight was my first major project with Liquified Creative," said Jaclyn Fenton, Associate Public Relations + Communications Manager. "It was an honor and a delight helping an extremely deserving family reunite for the holidays."
Members of Liquified and AeroVanti's teams were present to watch the plane touch down and greet the family, alongside photographers and journalists from several media outlets. The cheerful family posed for photos and answered questions from the media before being escorted to their relatives in a limousine provided by AeroVanti.
The heartwarming story was featured in various media outlets, including WBAL, WMAR, Naptown Scoop, Robb Report, along with a front-page feature in the Capital Gazette.
"At Liquified, we're invested in making a positive impact, even more so when it's on behalf of our clients," said Caitlin Wiggins, Director of Marketing. "It's gratifying to see our team and our clients' efforts honored for exemplary work and recognized among the best communicators in the industry."
With over 6,500 submissions across the globe, the Hermes Creative Awards recognize outstanding work in the industry while promoting the philanthropic nature of marketing and communication professionals.
For a complete list of 2022 Hermes Creative Awards winners, visit here.
About Liquified Creative
Liquified Creative is an award-winning advertising agency based in Annapolis, Maryland. The agency's in-house creative and marketing team provides strategic integrated marketing services, including branding, graphic design, creative, web design & development, strategic digital and traditional advertising services, experience marketing and public relations, among others. The agency works with many Fortune 500, top mid-size, and enterprise-level companies throughout Maryland, Washington DC, and Virginia. For more information, visit https://www.liquifiedcreative.com/.
About Hermes Creative Awards
Hermes Creative Awards is administered and judged by the Association of Marketing and Communication Professionals (www.hermesawards.com). The AMCP have coordinated and judged the awards for over 20 years. Entrants contend for Platinum and Gold statuettes — wings from the mythological Hermes cap and sandals, intricately etched to evoke the shape of the letter H.
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SOURCE Liquified Creative | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/05/19/aerovanti-airlines-liquified-creative-win-2022-gold-hermes-creative-award/ | 2022-05-19T15:37:12Z |
NEW YORK, April 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Terran Biosciences ("Terran"), a biotech platform company dedicated to the development of transformational therapeutics for neurological and psychiatric diseases, has entered into an agreement with Blumentech S.L. ("Blumentech") to acquire Blumentech's full patent portfolio and accompanying data, which includes multiple groundbreaking discoveries by the late Dr. Jordi Riba Serrano, a renown ethno-pharmacologist and pioneer of psychedelics research.
Widely admired for his trailblazing work in the space, Dr. Riba was the first to conduct a placebo-controlled study of ayahuasca in 1999, and published extensively on the ability of the molecule DMT to induce neurogenesis. His findings demonstrated novel ways to maintain the therapeutic and neurogenic benefit of psychedelic compounds while also reducing potential side effects and increasing the potential for use across a much wider population of patients.
During his time as a senior researcher at the Sant Pau Biomedical Research Institute in Barcelona, Dr. Riba founded Blumentech in 2017 as a spinout to advance his research and further explore these new possibilities and applications for psychedelics. That same year he was featured alongside Elon Musk and Kamala Harris on Rolling Stone's list of "25 People Shaping the Future," highlighting the visionaries who are "changing (and maybe saving) the world one brilliant idea at a time."
Since Dr. Riba's passing in 2020, his son Marc Riba has stepped in as a director at Blumentech to keep the work moving ahead. "My purpose is to continue my father's legacy. His vision was to use his research to find solutions for the millions of people suffering from mental and neurological illnesses," stated Marc, "Thanks to our great team at Blumentech, led by Gerard de Lucas, we were able to protect and expand my father's intellectual property. Now we are happy to partner with the team at Terran, who we know will be able to ensure his important work continues and take his vision to the next level. We have been impressed by their team, IP, portfolio, and novel approach to the space, and we have faith they will be successful in delivering new therapeutic options to patients in need."
Blumentech's patents further complement Terran's rapidly growing IP portfolio of over 150 patent applications in the psychedelic space, which includes patents on Terran's orally-active DMT compound, a product of Terran's robust medicinal chemistry drug discovery program.
Dr. Sam Clark, CEO of Terran commented "We are honored to partner with Blumentech and advance these assets as quickly as possible. Dr. Riba truly opened the door to this entire field of research, and we hope we too can open doors for patients with these innovative approaches."
The deal also included data and patent rights assigned and licensed from several academic institutions in Spain, including: Fundació Institut de Recerca de l'Hospital de La Santa Creu i Sant Pau (FIRHSCSP), Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM), State Agency Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Cientificas M.P (CSIC), and Consorcio Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red (CIBER).
About Terran Biosciences, Inc.
Terran is a biotech platform company developing a portfolio of therapeutics and technologies for patients with neurological and psychiatric diseases. Backed by a number of life-science and tech investors, Terran has built a CNS-focused, tech-enabled drug development platform, and is rapidly advancing of number of late-stage assets, which include novel psychedelic-based therapeutics.
Terran Contact
Investor Relations:
ir@terranbiosciences.com
Media:
info@terranbiosciences.com
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SOURCE Terran Biosciences, Inc. | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/04/13/terran-biosciences-blumentech-sl-announce-acquisition-patent-portfolio-covering-groundbreaking-discoveries-prominent-psychedelics-researcher-dr-jordi-riba/ | 2022-04-13T14:06:42Z |
FDA-approved abortion pills see rise in demand
(CNN) - The Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade is putting a spotlight on abortion pills.
“Medication abortion has opened up the options for individuals who are in need of abortion care,” Dr. Jen Villavicencio with the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists said.
Instead of having a surgical procedure, medication abortion is a method to end pregnancy by taking a combination of pills approved by the Food and Drug Administration.
The first pill is called mifepristone and the second pill is called misoprostol.
The FDA says both are safe and effective up to 11 weeks after the first day of the last menstrual period.
“It’s extremely safe. It’s safer than Viagra. It’s safer than most of the over-the-counter painkillers, for example,” director of Women on Waves Dr. Rebecca Gomperts said.
Dr. Meera Shah, a family medicine physician and chief medical officer at Planned Parenthood Hudson Peconic, says that getting medication and abortion pills online is safe if the pills are sourced from reputable outlets.
Hey Jane, a telehealth organization that delivers medication abortion pills in some states, says the average patient demand has more than doubled compared to last month following the high court’s ruling.
A similar organization, Aid Access, says demand began growing in May when the Supreme Court draft opinion was leaked.
“We have seen an incredible increase of the request for help. People are really, really scared,” Gomperts said.
Some anti-abortion advocates say the next battle over abortion rights might be over access to these abortion pills.
Some Republican governors are already signaling that they will take action to block access to abortion pills.
“We don’t believe it should be available, because it is a dangerous situation for those individuals,” South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem said.
Copyright 2022 CNN Newsource. All rights reserved. | https://www.wibw.com/2022/06/29/fda-approved-abortion-pills-see-rise-demand/ | 2022-06-29T19:38:12Z |
New dispensary expands patient access to medical cannabis; grand opening specials available
TALLAHASSEE, Fla., July 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Trulieve Cannabis Corp. (CSE: TRUL) (OTCQX: TCNNF) ("Trulieve" or "the Company"), a leading and top-performing cannabis company in the United States, today announced the opening of a new medical dispensary in Apopka, Florida. Located at 2121 W Orange Blossom Trail, the Apopka dispensary opens at 9am on Saturday, July 9, 2022, with ongoing regular hours of 9am - 9pm from Monday through Saturday and 10am - 8pm on Sunday.
Grand opening festivities throughout the day at the new dispensary will include numerous partner giveaways, music, food trucks, deals and specials, and all registered patients will receive a 25% discount. Trulieve also offers statewide home delivery, convenient online ordering and in-store pickup. As always, all first-time guests are eligible for a 50% new customer discount at any Florida-based location.
"Trulieve is proud to expand access to medical marijuana for Florida's patient population," said Trulieve's Chief Executive Officer Kim Rivers, "Trulieve is committed to investing in the Apopka community, as well as offering patients access to high quality products and providing exceptional customer experiences."
As the state's leading medical cannabis provider, Trulieve's retail employees are trained to provide personalized patient care and support individuals at every stage of their cannabis journeys. Trulieve dispensaries throughout Florida offer on-site consultations to help patients obtain appropriate medical products and dosages to ensure optimal cannabis experiences.
Trulieve patients across Florida can choose from the largest selection of THC and CBD products available in a variety of consumption methods, including smokable flower, concentrates, edibles, capsules, syringes, tinctures, topical creams, vaporizers, and more.
Designed to meet every patient's needs, our portfolio of in-house brands includes Alchemy, Co2lors, Cultivar Collection, Modern Flower, Momenta, Muse, Roll One and Sweet Talk. Patients also have access to beloved brands such as Bellamy Brothers, Bhang, Binske, Blue River, Black Tuna, DeLisioso, Love's Oven, Miami Mango, O.pen and Sunshine Cannabis, all available exclusively at Trulieve in Florida.
For more information, or to learn how to become a registered patient, please visit Trulieve.com and connect on Instagram or Facebook.
Trulieve is an industry leading, vertically integrated cannabis company and multi-state operator in the U.S. operating in 11 states, with leading market positions in Arizona, Florida, and Pennsylvania. Trulieve is poised for accelerated growth and expansion, building scale in retail and distribution in new and existing markets through its hub strategy. By providing innovative, high-quality products across its brand portfolio, Trulieve delivers optimal customer experiences and increases access to cannabis, helping patients and customers to live without limits. Trulieve is listed on the CSE under the symbol TRUL and trades on the OTCQX market under the symbol TCNNF. To learn more about Trulieve, visit Trulieve.com.
Media Contact
Rob Kremer, Executive Director of Corporate Communications
+1 (404) 218-3077
Robert.Kremer@Trulieve.com
Investor Contact
Christine Hersey, Executive Director of Investor Relations
+1 (424) 202-0210
Christine.Hersey@Trulieve.com
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SOURCE Trulieve Cannabis Corp. | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/07/09/trulieve-opening-apopka-fl-medical-marijuana-dispensary/ | 2022-07-09T13:04:51Z |
Legislation Will Accelerate Investment in Critical Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Sector
WASHINGTON, Aug. 16, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, President Joe Biden will sign the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 into law, undertaking an historic national investment in clean energy technologies and solutions, including hydrogen and fuel cells. This legislation includes a suite of tax provisions and funding opportunities that will enable monumental investments in hydrogen and fuel cell technologies, fostering economic growth and encouraging decarbonization across a wide range of sectors of the American economy.
"Through continuous outreach across our broad membership, the Fuel Cell and Hydrogen Energy Association (FCHEA) has long been leading the charge working with Congress and the Administration to develop the policy tools necessary to advance the American hydrogen sector," said FCHEA President and CEO Frank Wolak. "We are thrilled by the passage of this bill, as the robust clean energy package, including the crucial new clean hydrogen production tax credit, will accelerate investment in an emerging hydrogen economy, helping our nation achieve its decarbonization goals, while supporting domestic jobs and manufacturing."
"With the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, and now the passage of the Inflation Reduction Act, our industry is positioned to support expanded clean hydrogen production and utilization for transportation, energy storage, power generation, industrial applications, and more," added Mr. Wolak. "FCHEA member companies will continue to lead the way in our growing hydrogen economy, building on the foundation these policies provide and driving deployment."
"FCHEA looks forward to continuing to work with Congress and the Administration to implement these new credits and policies and ensure the United States remains an innovative hydrogen technology leader in driving a prosperous economic and environmental future," added Mr. Wolak.
The Fuel Cell and Hydrogen Energy Association (FCHEA) is the leading industry association in the United States representing more than eighty-five leading organizations advancing production, distribution, and use of innovative, clean, safe, and reliable hydrogen energy. For over 30 years FCHEA has provided a consistent industry voice to policymakers and regulators, driving support at the federal and state level. Our educational efforts promote the environmental and economic benefits of hydrogen energy and fuel cell technologies. Visit us online at www.fchea.org.
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SOURCE Fuel Cell and Hydrogen Energy Association (FCHEA) | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/08/16/fchea-lauds-historic-support-hydrogen-inflation-reduction-act-2022/ | 2022-08-16T18:00:23Z |
PARSIPPANY, N.J., June 29, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- CherryRoad Technologies Inc., a leading integrator of public sector software and digital technology solutions who is committed to building community engagement, has announced, the successful Go-Live of the City of San José, CA, Oracle PeopleSoft PUM 39 and PeopleTools 8.59 Upgrade. The City is now positioned to fully take advantage of all the newly delivered functionality and features to increase user productivity and adoption of best practices. This also positions the City for rolling out FLUID, sometime in the near future.
The partnership between the two organizations began in August of 2021 when the City engaged CherryRoad Managed Services to kick-off the project. At that time, the City was in search for a solution to upgrade their HCM application to the latest Image Release and Tools version.
With a clear comprehension of the City's vision, CherryRoad assessed the current environment and recommended a migration to PUM Image 39 and PeopleTools version 8.59.03.
The CherryRoad implementation proved to be a positive and impactful change agent for the City of San José. The PUM Image 39 upgrade will move the City's PeopleSoft HCM system to a current application and tools version which will enable the City to realize the following business benefits:
- Enables the Business to take advantage of delivered new features and functions which only require configuration
- Allows for business adoption of recommended best practices
- Increases end-user and IT productivity
- Allows the City to stay current with updated maintenance and patches:
- Ensure continued Premium support by Oracle for HCM application and tools
- Positions the City to take advantage of the PeopleSoft FLUID User Interface
"CherryRoad completed this project on-time and within budget" commented Shaun Ratchford, Enterprise Technology Manager – Finance & HR, City of San José, IT Department.
Tom Heldt, Executive VP of CherryRoad commented "As an experienced public sector specialist, CherryRoad ensures our implementation deliverables are client-optimized in alignment to two things: Strategic Roadmap; and targeted, specific business outcomes. We are honored to assist the City in achieving their business and technology objectives through innovative solutions that position them to continue to foster collaboration and transparency between their community and government."
At CherryRoad, our clients entrust us with the success of their IT solutions, whether we are delivering on-premise ERP, cloud-based application management, business intelligence, process optimization, strategic staffing, or change management consulting. Throughout our 38-year history, we have successfully partnered with hundreds of public sector and commercial clients to bridge communities through technology. Headquartered in Parsippany, N.J. with offices across the U.S., we have earned a solid reputation for combining technology, organizational, functional, and vertical market expertise into practical solutions that deliver results – on time and budget. For more information, visit www.cherryroad.com
With more than one million residents, San José is one of the most diverse large cities in the United States and is Northern California's largest city and the 10th largest city in the nation. San José's transformation into a global innovation center has resulted in one of the largest concentrations of technology companies and expertise in the world. In 2011, the City adopted Envision San José 2040, a long-term growth plan that sets forth a vision and a comprehensive road map to guide the City's anticipated growth through the year 2040.
Trademarks
Oracle, Java and MySQL are registered trademarks of Oracle Corporation.
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SOURCE CherryRoad Technologies Inc. | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/06/29/city-san-jose-california-partners-with-cherryroad-successfully-go-live-peoplesoft-pum-39-tools-upgrade/ | 2022-06-29T21:46:02Z |
CPSC (WEHT) — About 93,000 hoverboards sold at Best Buy are now being recalled because they might malfunction and injure the rider, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission.
The Hover-1 Superfly Hoverboards have been reported to have a software malfunction that doesn’t stop the motor, the CPSC said, causing the rider to continue their momentum when they are no longer controlling it. This malfunction increases the risk of falls and injuries for the rider.
The CPSC said 29 reports of the malfunction problem with four minor injuries have been reported.
The 2020 Hover-1 Superfly Hoverboards model H1-SPFY were sold in black only with blue LED lights on the hoverboard deck near the footpads. Hover-1 is written on the front of the hoverboard.
Recalled hoverboards have a serial number on the bottom of the hoverboard beginning with SPFY-BLK-GO-2008, SPFY-BLK-GO-2009 or SPFY-BLK-GO-2010. You can find a warning label on the bottom of the hoverboard next to the serial number. The warning label, at the bottom right, states “H1-SPFY.”
The hoverboard was sold at Best Buy stores nationwide and at Bestbuy.com from October 2020 through October 2021 for about $200. If you have one of the recalled hoverboards, you’re urged not to use it and contact the DGL Group for instructions on how to ship it to an authorized repair shop free of charge.
You can call DGL toll-free at 888-556-8426 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, contact online at https://www.hover-1.com/pages/important-safety-information or www.dglusa.com and click on “Safety Recall” to submit a repair request. | https://cw33.com/news/nexstar-media-wire/93000-hoverboards-recalled-over-glitch-that-causes-rider-to-lose-control/ | 2022-05-23T13:52:05Z |
NEW YORK, June 27, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Attention Arqit Quantum Inc. f/k/a Centricus Acquisition Corp. ("Arqit Quantum Inc. f/k/a Centricus Acquisition Corp.") (NASDAQ: ARQQ) 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: (i) all persons or entities who purchased or otherwise acquired Arqit securities between September 7, 2021 and April 18, 2022, inclusive; and/or (ii) all holders of Centricus securities as of the record date for the special meeting of shareholders held on August 31, 2021 to consider approval of the merger between Arqit and Centricus (the "Merger") and entitled to vote on the Merger.
If you suffered a loss on your investment in Arqit Quantum Inc. f/k/a Centricus Acquisition Corp., 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 Arqit Quantum Inc. f/k/a Centricus Acquisition Corp. includes allegations that the Company made materially false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (1) Arqit's proposed encryption technology would require widespread adoption of new protocols and standards for telecommunications; (2) British cybersecurity officials questioned the viability of Arqit's proposed encryption technology in a meeting in 2020; (3) the British government was not an Arqit customer but, rather, providing grants to Arqit; (4) Arqit had little more than an early-stage prototype of its encryption system at the time of the Merger; and (5) as a result, Defendants' statements about its business, operations, and prospects, were materially false and misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis at all relevant times.
DEADLINE: July 5, 2022
Aggrieved Arqit Quantum Inc. f/k/a Centricus Acquisition Corp. investors only have until July 5, 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.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/06/27/class-action-alert-law-offices-vincent-wong-remind-arqit-quantum-inc-fka-centricus-acquisition-corp-investors-lead-plaintiff-deadline-july-5-2022/ | 2022-06-27T20:41:42Z |
DENVER, June 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Nicolaides Fink Thorpe Michaelides Sullivan LLP is pleased to announce its expansion to the Mountain West with the opening of its Denver, Colorado office.
Partners Matthew J. Fink and Ian A. Cooper will anchor the Denver office, located at 1401 Lawrence Street, Suite 1600, Denver, CO 80202.
"We have assisted our clients in navigating the legal terrain of the Mountain West States for many years, addressing complex insurance issues and litigating insurance disputes," said Managing Partner, Richard H. Nicolaides, Jr. "Having an established team of experienced attorneys based in Denver will enhance our ability to advance aggressive advocacy and strategic problem-solving on behalf of our clients throughout the region, as well as attract talented attorneys to join our team."
The opening of the Denver office aligns with the firm's strategic plan to expand its national footprint in geographically significant markets based on client needs. In addition to Matt Fink and Ian Cooper, the firm's Mountain West team also includes attorneys licensed in Idaho, Nevada, and Wyoming. Additional information regarding the firm's Mountain West experience and reach can be found here.
The Denver office marks the firm's sixth office location in the United States, following the opening of the firm's office in Dallas, Texas less than two years ago. Today, the firm is comprised of 75 attorneys who serve clients located in Bermuda, London, Tokyo, and the United States from offices in Chicago, Dallas, Denver, Los Angeles, San Diego, and San Francisco.
Expanding the Office
The firm seeks dynamic and talented attorneys to join its new Denver office. This is an exceptional opportunity for attorneys to contribute to the growth of the Denver office while handling challenging, complex insurance coverage matters directly alongside partners in Denver, as well as attorneys spanning the firm's six U.S. offices. Those interested in learning more about the firm's available positions should visit https://www.nicolaidesllp.com/available-positions-legal.
About the Firm
Nicolaides Fink Thorpe Michaelides Sullivan LLP is dedicated to exclusively representing the interests of the insurance industry around the world. Our attorneys evaluate insurance coverage issues and litigate insurance coverage disputes involving complex risks and exposures arising under a variety of insurance products. For more about our team, as well as the nature and scope of our insurance coverage practice, please visit www.nicolaidesllp.com.
Contact: Jessica DuBrock, jdubrock@nicolaidesllp.com
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SOURCE Nicolaides Fink Thorpe Michaelides Sullivan LLP | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/06/13/nicolaides-fink-thorpe-michaelides-sullivan-llp-announces-mountain-west-expansion-with-opening-denver-colorado-office/ | 2022-06-13T14:39:41Z |
Joining forces helping public sector clients leverage analytics to outwit complexity
WASHINGTON, June 28, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Guidehouse, a leading global provider of consulting services to public sector and commercial clients, is pleased to announce a strategic alliance with Palantir Technologies Inc. (NYSE: PLTR), a leading builder of operating systems for the modern enterprise. The partnership will combine Guidehouse's next generation consulting services with Palantir's cutting-edge Foundry software platform to help clients outwit complexity.
Guidehouse, the third-largest consultancy to the federal government and with a multi-billion-dollar global practice, leverages deep commercial and public sector expertise to help clients solve unique business and technology challenges. Guidehouse combines an in-depth understanding of missions across the US Federal Government with a relentless focus on quality to develop sustainable strategies that drive mission success.
Under the agreement, Guidehouse will architect solutions across its public sector customer base by building on Palantir's Foundry platform to accelerate business processes, rapid image product delivery, AI model training, and enterprise-wide data integration. The Palantir Foundry enables data-driven decision making and operations by acting as the central operating system for enterprise-wide data, while also providing rigorous access controls and governance within an intuitive end user interface.
"The Guidehouse-Palantir partnership is a powerful combination," said Ed Meehan, Partner and Guidehouse Defense Segment Leader. "Palantir's extensive track record in solving complex challenges coupled with our deep mission understanding and robust digital expertise will enable clients to accelerate their digital transformation journeys."
"This strategic alliance brings together deep skills in business and technology strategy, product ideation, technology development and deployment, and organizational change management to help support clients make better and more impactful business decisions," added John Hunt, Partner at Guidehouse and leader of the Advanced Solutions segment.
"With deep functional knowledge in data science and data engineering, Guidehouse is a valuable partner as we extend our support for the U.S. Government," said Lauren Penneys, Head of USG Growth at Palantir. "Together, we will be able to provide robust offerings to solve data challenges for a variety of missions and place our clients on the best path for success."
For more information, please visit us here.
Guidehouse is a leading global provider of consulting services to the public sector and commercial markets, with broad capabilities in management, technology, and risk consulting. By combining our public and private sector expertise, we help clients address their most complex challenges and navigate significant regulatory pressures focusing on transformational change, business resiliency, and technology-driven innovation. Across a range of advisory, consulting, outsourcing, and digital services, we create scalable, innovative solutions that help our clients outwit complexity and position them for future growth and success. The company has more than 13,000 professionals in over 50 locations globally. Guidehouse is a Veritas Capital portfolio company, led by seasoned professionals with proven and diverse expertise in traditional and emerging technologies, markets, and agenda-setting issues driving national and global economies. For more information, please visit www.guidehouse.com.
Foundational software of tomorrow. Delivered Today. Additional information is available at https://www.palantir.com.
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. These statements may relate to, but are not limited to, Palantir's expectations regarding the amount and the terms of the contract and the expected benefits of our software platforms. Forward-looking statements are inherently subject to risks and uncertainties, some of which cannot be predicted or quantified. Forward-looking statements are based on information available at the time those statements are made and were based on current expectations as well as the beliefs and assumptions of management as of that time with respect to future events. These statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, many of which involve factors or circumstances that are beyond our control. These risks and uncertainties include our ability to meet the unique needs of our customer; the failure of our platforms to satisfy our customer or perform as desired; the frequency or severity of any software and implementation errors; our platforms' reliability; and our customer's ability to modify or terminate the contract. Additional information regarding these and other risks and uncertainties is included in the filings we make with the Securities and Exchange Commission from time to time. Except as required by law, we do not undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future developments, or otherwise.
Media Contact:
Guidehouse
Cecile Fradkin cfradkin@scprgroup.com
Palantir
Lisa Gordon media@palantir.com
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NEW YORK (AP) — As he campaigns for a Manhattan congressional seat against fellow Democrats twice his age, 38-year-old Suraj Patel harnesses the frustration of his generation toward those who have held office for decades.
In his telling, Reps. Jerry Nadler, 75, and Carolyn Maloney, 76, are part of a crop of Democrats who rose to power in the 1990s only to fail on issues ranging from guns to climate change and abortion. The redistricting process that merged their congressional districts offers a chance for new leadership, Patel says.
“If we keep doing the same thing over and over and expecting different result: That’s not just the definition of insanity,” he said. “That’s also the definition of incumbency.”
More than 1,100 miles to the west in the presidential testing ground of Iowa, Republican Jeremiah Bronson was also considering whether someone other than 76-year-old Donald Trump might carry his party into the future. Bronson expressed growing interest in 55-year-old Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin.
“He seems to be on the same page with conservatives around the country,” Bronson, 39, said as he dined on barbecued pork sandwiches with a half-dozen other Story County Republicans.
In a nation faltering along seemingly every conceivable divide, there’s a shared desire among Democrats and Republicans for a new generation of political leadership. The conversation is most pronounced when it comes to the White House as Trump considers another campaign and President Joe Biden confronts skepticism about his ability to mount a reelection bid in 2024 when he is 82.
“There’s just a sense of like, that rematch between these two old guys seems ridiculous to people,” said Sarah Longwell, a Republican strategist who conducts almost weekly focus groups with voters across the country and political spectrum.
There are recurring calls for youth and change in U.S. politics.
Bill Clinton’s appeal for a new generation of leadership helped him rise from governor of Arkansas to the first baby boomer president in 1992. In 2008, Barack Obama’s relative youth was an asset in his primary campaign against Hillary Clinton and during the general election against Arizona Sen. John McCain.
More recently, Pete Buttigieg’s 2020 presidential bid gained traction with its focus on fresh leadership before being overtaken by Biden, viewed by many Democrats as the safer choice against Trump.
The dynamics have shifted since then, with some Democratic voters furious that Biden and leaders in Congress haven’t done more to protect abortion rights, respond more aggressively to a wave of mass shootings and address climate change.
A new Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research poll shows 83% of U.S. adults say the country is on the wrong track. Only 36% approve of Biden’s leadership overall, while 62% disapprove. Polling from AP-NORC in recent months captured deepening pessimism among members of his own Democratic Party about Biden, the direction of the country and t he state of the economy. A January AP-NORC poll found just 28% of those surveyed and 48% of Democrats said they want Biden to run for reelection in 2024.
Julián Castro, a former Obama housing secretary and onetime presidential candidate, said there’s “no doubt” that members of his party are frustrated and that Democrats in Washington need to show a sense of urgency and produce results. In a telephone interview from the Texas Democratic Convention in Dallas, he said Democrats seemed energized.
“My immediate hope is that that angst and frustration is going to be channeled positively to turnout in November,” he said, referring to the midterm elections. “And then we’ll reckon with what’s beyond that when November happens.”
Biden has repeatedly insisted he will run for reelection. But should he decide to step aside, a host of younger Democrats could be in contention. They include Vice President Kamala Harris, who is 57. California Gov. Gavin Newsom, 54, and Illinois Gov. J.B Pritzker, 57, have garnered attention for their responses to the Supreme Court’s abortion ruling and mass shootings.
Some Democrats seeking office this year have been clear about their desires that a new generation take its place in politics.
Last month, the Democratic candidate for governor in South Carolina, Joe Cunningham, proposed not only term limits but also age limits for officeholders, saying it was time to end America’s “geriatric oligarchy” of politicians who are staying “in office way past their prime.” To Cunningham, who recently turned 40, that includes the incumbent he hopes to oust in November, 75-year-old Republican Henry McMaster, who is the state’s oldest sitting governor.
But Cunningham also said the proposal was intended to apply to Biden.
For Republicans, the most pressing debate often seems to focus less explicitly on age and more on whether the party should move on from Trump. That’s particularly true in the wake of hearings by the House Jan. 6 committee that have drawn new attention to his desperate efforts to stay in office after losing the 2020 election.
The Jan. 6 hearings may be sending voters looking elsewhere.
An AP-NORC in June found that 48% of U.S. adults say Trump should be charged with a crime for his role in the siege of the U.S. Capitol. January’s AP-NORC poll showed that people were just as down on Trump running again in 2024 as they were Biden: Just 27% of U.S. adults wanted Trump to run again, including a slim majority – 56% — of Republicans. That poll also showed the former president’s popularity with the GOP dropped somewhat, with 71% of Republicans saying they had a favorable opinion of Trump compared with 78% in a September 2020 AP-NORC/USAFacts poll.
Longwell, the Republican strategist, said the hearings seem to be having an impact even among Republican voters who are not watching the sessions or persuaded by them because they are a reminder of the tumult that has surrounded Trump.
“One of the things I hear coming up over and over again in the groups is that Trump has a lot of baggage and that there’s all these other stars, Republican stars, and maybe it’s time Trump should be like an elder statesman,” she said.
A number of figures from Trump’s world and outside it are seen as potential challengers in 2024. Trump and his associates are especially focused on Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, who, at 43, is increasingly viewed as a younger heir to the former president’s brand of politics.
Other Republicans making increasingly overt moves toward a presidential run include Arkansas Sen. Tom Cotton, 45; former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley, 50; Texas Sen. Ted Cruz, 51; former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, 58; and former Vice President Mike Pence, 63.
Pat Brady, the former chair of the Illinois Republican Party who is not a Trump supporter, said he thinks the “fever has broken” when it comes to Trump’s standing with the GOP.
“I think the combination of him just spending all his time, every speech, relitigating 2020. Voters typically look forward. They don’t look backward,” he said.
Brady said part of the frustrations voters have with their political leaders is the age-related.
“When you look at the leadership, I’m old and those guys make me look young,” said 61-year-old Brady. “This is a vibrant youthful country, fundamentally, and we’ve got a bunch of old people running it.”
___
Associated Press writers Thomas Beaumont in Cambridge, Iowa, Hannah Fingerhut in Washington and Meg Kinnard in Columbia, South Carolina, contributed to this report.
___
Follow AP for full coverage of the midterms at https://apnews.com/hub/2022-midterm-elections
and on Twitter, https://twitter.com/ap_politics | https://cw33.com/news/politics/ap-politics/one-thing-voters-agree-on-fresh-voices-needed-in-politics/ | 2022-07-24T19:33:03Z |
ST. ANDREWS, Scotland (AP) — Golf’s breakaway bunch have turned, it seems, into a band of brothers.
The rebels who have created a major rift in the world of golf by defecting to the Saudi-funded LIV series are working together for a common cause at the British Open this week.
“Everybody, it feels like, is against us,” said Talor Gooch, one of the 24 LIV golfers playing at St. Andrews. “And that’s OK. It’s kind of banded us together, I think.”
That 24 has been whittled down to an 11-strong group who will play the weekend at the home of golf.
Five were sitting in the top 20 after the second round Friday. Two were in the top 10. One, possibly the biggest fish in LIV’s pool in Dustin Johnson, is in fifth place and four shots off the lead.
There remains a distinct possibility — much to the chagrin of the R&A, no doubt — that a player from the LIV tour could be lifting the claret jug on Sunday evening.
The prospect was put to Martin Slumbers, the R&A chief executive, on the eve of the event and he said he would “welcome them onto the 18th green.” Yet minutes earlier, Slumbers had delivered a withering verdict on the breakaway tour, describing it as a money grab that threatens golf’s merit-based culture cultivated over centuries.
Such has been the R&A’s desire to stop the LIV saga from disrupting the 150th British Open that the tour’s CEO, Greg Norman, was told to not attend the pre-tournament dinner at St. Andrews for past champions. Norman is a two-winner winner. Phil Mickelson, the 2013 champion and now a LIV player, also didn’t attend the dinner, saying the R&A told him the club didn’t think it was a good idea he went.
LIV players weren’t put up for official pre-tournament media duties, either.
But the story is casting something of a shadow over the event. There have been noticeable jeers for Ian Poulter, another of the defectors, as he hit his opening tee shots in both of his rounds — even if he claimed to not have heard them. Random barbs have been heard from the galleries about the enormous sums of money taken by players to leave both the PGA Tour and the European tour.
Johnson said he has been able to put any negativity and criticism to one side.
“I don’t read. I don’t look at it,” the former No. 1 said. “It doesn’t bother me because, obviously, everyone has their own opinion and I have mine, and the only one I care about is mine.”
Another LIV player, Lee Westwood, chose to blame the media for “stoking up” the matter, which has shone a light on Saudi Arabia’s attempts to improve its image through sportswashing.
“I think the general public just want to go out there and see good golf,” Westwood said, “no matter where it’s being played or who’s playing it.”
Johnson, who shot 5-under 67 to move to 9 under for the week, is contending at a major for the first time this year.
Gooch is the other LIV player in the top 10 — he is tied for eighth at 7 under — as he looks to improve on his best finish in seven previous appearances at a major, a tie for 14th at the Masters in April.
Also in the top 20 was Sadom Kaewkanjana, who was tied for 12th at 6 under, and both Westwood and Abraham Ancer, a further stroke back in a tie for 18th.
The fact that a quarter of the top 20 are LIV players might be used by the rebel series to push its status as a tour of some repute, as opposed to a rich man’s playground for the unmotivated or those past their best.
“The credentials of everyone speaks for themselves,” Gooch said. “It’s obviously cool for me to see other guys that are out there playing well.
“We’ve caught a lot of flak for what we’ve done here recently. I think one thing that cannot be questioned is the quality of players that are there.”
Among the other LIV players making the weekend were Sergio Garcia, Poulter and Reed, who is wearing a LIV-branded cap this week.
Mickelson was the most high-profile LIV player to miss the cut after shooting 77 to finish at 5 over for the week.
___
More AP golf: https://apnews.com/hub/golf and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports
___
Steve Douglas is at https://twitter.com/sdouglas80 | https://cw33.com/sports/ap-sports/liv-defectors-in-contention-for-claret-jug-at-british-open/ | 2022-07-16T09:12:55Z |
CDC investigating more than 100 cases of unexplained hepatitis in children, including 5 deaths
By Brenda Goodman, CNN
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said on Friday it’s investigating 109 cases of severe and unexplained hepatitis in children in 25 states and territories that may be linked to a worldwide outbreak.
Among them, 14% needed transplants and five children have died.
Nearly all the children — more than 90% — needed to be hospitalized.
Dr. Jay Butler, the CDC’s deputy director of infectious diseases stressed that the investigation — a partnership between the CDC and state health departments — is an evolving situation. Not all the hepatitis cases they are studying now may ultimately be caused by the same thing.
“We are casting a wide net to help broaden our understanding,” Butler said.
Hepatitis, or swelling of the liver, can be caused by infections, autoimmune diseases, drugs and toxins. A family of viruses well known for attacking the liver causes hepatitis A, hepatitis B and hepatitis C.
It’s not yet clear what’s driving these cases in young children. Butler said some of the common causes of viral hepatitis have been considered, but were not found in any of the cases. Adenovirus has been detected in more than 50% of cases, although its role isn’t clear.
Early hepatitis reports
On April 21, the CDC alerted doctors to a cluster of unusual cases of hepatitis in nine children in Alabama.
The agency asked doctors and public health officials to notify the agency if they had similar cases of children under the age of 10 with elevated liver enzymes and no apparent explanation for their hepatitis dating back to October 2021.
Since then, state health departments have been working with pediatric specialists in their states to identify possible cases. The numbers shared at Friday’s news briefing are the first national look at cases in the United States.
States and territories where cases are under investigation are: Alabama, Arizona, California, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Louisiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, North Carolina, North Dakota, Nebraska, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, Tennessee, Texas, Washington and Wisconsin.
The CDC’s alert followed earlier reports from the UK and Europe of dozens of children from the England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland coming to hospitals with unexplained hepatitis.
As of May 1, there are 228 probable cases linked to the outbreak in 20 countries, with more than 50 cases under investigation, Dr. Philippa Easterbrook, a senior scientist in the World Health Organization’s Global Hepatitis Program, said in a briefing on Wednesday. Among these cases, one child has died and around 18 have needed liver transplants, Easterbrook said.
Most of the children were healthy when they developed symptoms that included fatigue, loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, belly pain, dark urine, light colored stools and yellowing of their skin and eyes — a sign caused jaundice.
Unusually severe liver inflammation
Pediatric gastroenterologist Dr. Heli Bhatt from the University of Minnesota Medical Center has treated two children who are part of the CDC’s investigation. One, a 2-year-old from South Dakota, had a liver transplant Friday morning.
Bhatt says liver failure in kids is “super rare.” And even before scientists started tracking this outbreak, half of cases were never explained.
Doctors who have treated these children say their cases stood out.
“Even during the first case, I thought it was weird,” says Dr. Markus Buchfellner, a pediatric infectious disease specialist at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, where they first started seeing cases in October.
“And then when the second one came in that’s when I said okay, we need to talk to someone about this.” He reached out to senior physicians in his department who contacted the state health department and the CDC.
Buchfellner says the cases stood out because their liver inflammation was so severe.
Sometimes, common viruses like Epstein-Barr or even SARS-CoV2 will raise a child’s liver enzymes a little, indicating what Buchfellner calls “small bits of hepatitis,” but the kids typically recover as their bodies fight off the infection.
“But it’s very odd to see a child who’s healthy come in with the amount of liver injury that these kids had,” he said.
Initially, UAB saw nine kids with unexplained hepatitis, and all nine tested positive for adenovirus in their blood.
Since those cases were first reported, two more children in Alabama have been identified, and their cases are under investigation, bringing the state’s total to 11 cases under investigation, said Dr. Wes Stubblefield, medical officer for Alabama’s Northern and Northeastern Districts in an interview with CNN.
There are about 100 different kinds of adenoviruses. About 50 of them are known to infect humans, so they needed a closer look at the virus to try to figure out if all the children had the same one.
When researchers tried to read the genes of the adenovirus in infected kids, only five had enough genetic material to get a full sequence. In all five, the virus was a particular kind of adenovirus called adenovirus 41, which typically causes diarrhea and vomiting in kids, sometimes with congestion or a cough, but has never before been associated with liver failure.
Clues from the UK
In addition to the CDC briefing, researchers with the UK Health Security Agency on Friday posted a new technical briefing with an update on its hepatitis investigation. Out of 163 cases, 126 patients have been tested for adenovirus, and 91, or 72% were positive for that pathogen.
Investigators have tried to sequence the entire genome of an adenovirus from one of the patients, but have not yet been able to get a sample with enough of the virus to do that. Out of 18 cases where they were able to partially sequence the genome of the virus, all 18 have been adenovirus 41F, the same one found in the US cases.
Many have wondered whether the cases may somehow be related to SARS-CoV2, the virus that causes Covid-19.
UK investigators say they’re still looking at that possibility, but only 24 out of 132 patients tested — 18% — had SARS-CoV2 detected.
The report says they are not ruling out that some role for a Covid-19 infection in these cases. Perhaps a prior Covid-19 infection somehow primed the immune system to make these children unusually susceptible, or maybe a co-infection of the two viruses together overwhelms the liver. Researchers also want to know if maybe the hepatitis is part of some kind syndrome that strikes kids after a SARS-CoV2 infection, as the rare complication multisystem inflammtory syndrome in children, or MIS-C, does.
Another working theory from UK investigators is that maybe there’s some kind of outsized or irregular immune response in these children, perhaps because they were sheltered more than usual during the pandemic.
Yet another theory is that the adenovirus may have always caused liver failure in a tiny percentage of children who were infected, and these rare cases are only coming to light because it is causing an exceptionally large wave of infections.
And investigators in the UK say they are still testing for drugs, toxins, or perhaps an environmental exposure, even though some kind of infection is probably more likely to be the cause.
Sorting out the role of adenovirus 41
Another thing that’s puzzled doctors, Buchfellner says, is that they found adenovirus in blood samples, but not in samples of liver tissue taken during biopsies of the patients in Alabama.
“All nine of them have liver biopsies that were showing lots of inflammation. And hepatitis. But we did not find the virus in the liver. We only found the virus in the blood,” he said.
Bhatt’s case, a child from South Dakota, was also positive for adenovirus in her blood, but not in her liver.
If this adenovirus 41 is somehow responsible in these cases — and that’s still a big if — Buchfellner says he doesn’t know why it would only show up in the blood, but not in heavily damaged liver tissue, but he has some theories.
“Maybe the liver is clearing the virus before it’s been cleared in the blood,” he said. “And so by the time that the damage has been done to the liver, and we do the biopsy, the immune system has already cleared the virus from the liver. And what’s leftover is just inflammation.”
His second theory, he says is that maybe it’s not the virus itself that’s responsible for the liver damage, but perhaps the immune system overreacts when trying to fight off the virus and ends up damaging the liver.
Adenovirus infections are common, so maybe finding the virus in some of these patients is just a coincidence. “We are not 100% sure that this is just that adenovirus. There’s still a lot to be known,” Bhatt says.
Active investigation
In an April 29 statement on the cases, the CDC wrote “we believe adenovirus may be the cause for these reported cases, but other potential environmental and situational factors are still being investigated.”
“We are still telling our at least our families here in Alabama and I would encourage other families the same way not to be too concerned about this just yet.” Buchfellner said. “I mean, at the end of the day, this is still a pretty rare phenomenon,” he said.
Buchfellner says adnoviruses are commonly passed around daycares and schools. They typically cause nothing worse than something that feels like stomach flu for a few days.
“it’s been around for a long time and it’s gonna continue to go around. And in total, we only have around 200 cases that have been reported across the globe. So this isn’t a Covid pandemic-like situation where everybody needs to be really concerned about this,” he said.
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This is a breaking news story and will be updated. | https://localnews8.com/health/cnn-health/2022/05/06/cdc-investigating-more-than-100-cases-of-unexplained-hepatitis-in-children-including-5-deaths-2/ | 2022-05-06T19:13:35Z |
The technology startup unveils new visual identity and the next generation of TrashBot Zero.
LONGMONT, Colo., June 22, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- CleanRobotics has undergone a complete brand refresh. Driven by the launch of the next generation of their flagship product, TrashBot Zero, they are entering a new chapter focused on clean data to empower a zero-waste future.
"We're so excited about the latest TrashBot Zero," said Charles Yhap, CleanRobotics' CEO. "As we move to the next phase of the company's growth, we're updating our look and feel to align with the values that drive us. People come to us for the innovative technologies we've built around zero waste and a circular economy; But stay for the data-driven insights we can provide to advance recycling and composting programs."
CleanRobotics applies innovative AI and robotic solutions to revolutionize recycling and other persistent environmental problems. The TrashBot smart bin has been launched internationally in airports, hospitals, and several high-traffic facilities.
About the rebrand
The new branding is rooted in the company's values for innovation, zero waste, recycling, and data-driven user education. CleanRobotics looks to position itself as a strong technology parent brand anticipating future innovations in addition to TrashBot.
About TrashBot Zero
TrashBot is a smart bin that ensures the capture of recyclable materials, improves on-site and user-facing waste diversion 300% more accurately than human beings.
The new generation of TrashBot Zero features a sleek exterior design with a robust analytics dashboard, giving facilities unprecedented data into their waste and custodial operations. Made in America with recyclable materials, TrashBot Zero is here to change the way facilities solve for zero-waste.
"With the newest generation of TrashBot Zero and CleanRobotics analytics, we're going to help organizations achieve waste sustainability goals thought unattainable just years ago." said co-founder and VP of Engineering Tanner Cook.
To learn more about TrashBot Zero, visit www.cleanrobotics.com.
Media Contact: Frank Fimbres, Marketing Lead
frank.fimbres@cleanrobotics.com
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SOURCE CleanRobotics | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/06/22/cleanrobotics-launches-major-rebrand-support-strategic-vision-growth-plans/ | 2022-06-22T13:55:57Z |
The Company will also be providing an update to its distributors and other customers on July 26 at 11 am CT.
SALT LAKE CITY, July 20, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Co-Diagnostics, Inc. (Nasdaq: CODX) (the "Company" or "Co-Dx,"), a molecular diagnostics company with a unique, patented platform for the development of molecular diagnostic tests, announced today that it will be hosting a booth to showcase its existing and upcoming suite of diagnostics products and technology applications at the 2022 AACC Annual Scientific Meeting & Clinical Lab Expo, held July 24-28 at the McCormick Place Convention Center in Chicago, IL, in addition to providing an update for its worldwide network of customers and distributors.
Current and potential Co-Dx™ distributors, customers, and partners are invited to join the Company in room S103A at 11:00 AM CT for the Co-Dx global customer and distributor update. Over the past few years, Co-Dx has established a broad and growing distribution network that has sold over 34,000,000 PCR tests in over 50 countries.
On Tuesday at 2:00 pm CT, Company CEO Dwight Egan will also be conducting a presentation at the Company's booth on the Co-Dx PCR Home testing platform and introducing Dr. Kirk Ririe and Dr. Carl Wittwer, pioneers of rapid and real-time PCR, key personnel in the platform's development, and respectively president of the Company's wholly owned subsidiary and Chairman of the Company's Scientific Advisory Board.
Co-Diagnostics invites all interested parties to booth #2878, as well as to the Company's kiosk displaying our forthcoming Co-Dx PCR Home testing platform in the Disruptive Technologies Pavilion following Co-Dx being named a semifinalist in the 2022 AACC Disruptive Technology Award Competition.
To learn more about the conference, including registration and exhibitor details, please visit https://meeting.aacc.org.
The Co-Dx PCR Home testing platform device is subject to FDA review and is not available for sale.
About Co-Diagnostics, Inc.:
Co-Diagnostics, Inc., a Utah corporation, is a molecular diagnostics company that develops, manufactures and markets state-of-the-art diagnostics technologies. The Company's technology is utilized for tests that are designed using the detection and/or analysis of nucleic acid molecules (DNA or RNA). The Company also uses its proprietary technology to design specific tests to locate genetic markers for use in industries other than infectious disease and license the use of those tests to specific customers.
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SOURCE Co-Diagnostics | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/07/20/co-diagnostics-inc-host-booth-aacc-held-july-24-28-chicago/ | 2022-07-20T14:01:10Z |
In addition, the companies will develop and commercialize new products in the field of women's health
RAMAT GAN, Israel, June 27, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- OCON Healthcare, the Israeli FEMTECH company, which develops, manufactures and markets a unique and innovative platform for the delivery of drugs to the uterus, from the group of companies of Merchavia Holdings and Investments (TASE: MRHL), reports that it has signed a binding agreement with BioGenuine, a Chinese pharma company in the field of Women's Health, which will begin marketing its products exclusively in China and Southeast Asia. It is also stipulated that the companies will work for the joint development and commercialization of new products in the field of women's health based on OCON's spherical platform combined with innovative drugs.
According to the agreement between the companies, OCON will receive an immediate payment of $ 1.3 million in addition to the following milestones: 1. The Chinese company will pay $ 1 million after receiving regulatory approval in China for each of the products (excluding Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan). 2. The Chinese company will pay $ 1 million for the launch of each new product based on OCON's technology and addressing additional medical indications (excluding Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan).
The companies have agreed that OCON will receive royalties amounting to 7% of net product sales in China, Hong Kong, Macau, Vietnam, Cambodia, Myanmar, Laos, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, the Philippines and Indonesia. After a period of 12 years or the expiration of the patents in one of the territories, the royalty rate that OCON will receive will drop to 3.5%.
OCON's first platform product, the Ballerine® (IUB™ Ballerine®) is the first and only spherical intrauterine device of its kind in the world to prevent pregnancy, that has already proven safety and efficacy in the European, Israeli and South African markets and will soon enter the South American and Canadian markets. The IUB is the best delivery platform for uterine medications to treat a variety of medical conditions in women, such as increased bleeding, endometriosis, fibroids, menopause and more.
OCON's second product, currently in a Phase 2b clinical trial at 7 medical centers in Israel and Georgia, is SEAD IUB – intended for non-invasive treatment of Heavy Menstrual Bleeding HMB, from which 1 in 4 women of childbearing age suffers. The treatment is performed in the doctor's clinic within about half an hour without the need for surgery or anesthesia in the hospital and is designed to lead to a significant and immediate reduction in bleeding. OCON's treatment is a paradigm shift with regard to the traditional HMB treatments currently available in hospitals, which include invasive ablation procedures and even hysterectomy. OCON Healthcare estimates that the global HMB surgery market is expected to reach $ 1.3 billion by 2024.
OCON has recently begun developing a new product, IUB PRIMA, which will enable sustained release of a variety of drugs in the uterus over a fixed and defined period of time.
About Merchavia Holdings and Investments:
Merchavia is a public company traded in the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange that has a wide range of investments in Med-Tech companies with an emphasis on advanced remote medicine solutions.
Contact:
Eli Arad
Eli@merchavia.com
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SOURCE Merchavia Holdings and Investments | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/06/27/significant-breakthrough-femtech-company-ocon-healthcare-merchavia-investments-group-has-signed-an-exclusive-agreement-with-biogenuine-market-its-products-china-southeast-asian-countries/ | 2022-06-27T13:11:10Z |
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