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KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia (AP) — Two European divers were rescued by fishermen on Saturday but a third, a 14-year-old Dutch, had died, four days after they disappeared off a southern Malaysian island and drifted some 70 nautical miles (100 kilometers), authorities said.
Alexia Alexandra Molina, 18, of France and Adrian Peter Chesters, 46, of Britain were found early Saturday in neighboring Indonesian waters and taken to a hospital, the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency said.
Chesters’ Dutch son, Nathen Renze Chesters, remained missing but Chesters told police that he had died because he was too weak, the agency said in a statement.
The agency said it notified Indonesian authorities to continue searching for the body. The search operation in Malaysia has been called off.
Molina and Chesters were found 16 nautical miles (30 kilometers) north of Indonesia’s Bintan Island, which is about 70 nautical miles (100 kilometers) from the location they were reported missing on Wednesday, according to Mersing police chief Cyril Edward Nuing.
The three were diving with their Norwegian instructor, Kristine Grodem, about 15 meters (50 feet) deep at an island off Mersing town in Malaysia’s southern Johor state. Grodem, 35, was rescued Thursday by a tugboat. She said the four of them surfaced safely Wednesday afternoon but later drifted away from the boat and were separated by a strong current.
Grodem was training for the other three, who were seeking to obtain advanced diving licenses, maritime officials said.
The boat skipper was detained for further investigation, and diving activities off Mersing were suspended. There are several islands off the town that are popular dive spots.
Malaysia’s borders reopened to foreigners on April 1 after being closed for more than two years during the COVID-19 pandemic. | https://cw33.com/news/international/ap-international/2-european-divers-rescued-in-indonesia-dutch-teenager-dead/ | 2022-04-09T19:03:41Z |
‘Sorry, it’s lost’: UPS offering $500 after losing $12K engagement ring in shipping, woman says
CORNELIUS, N.C. (WBTV/Gray News) - A North Carolina woman says she continues to want answers from a major shipping company after her engagement ring never got to her as requested.
Kristy Schiano said she mistakenly left her engagement ring at a hotel in Arizona back in March and noticed it was missing when she was on her way to the airport.
“Immediately, when I was in the Uber, I realized it. My heart fell into my stomach,” Schiano said.
WBTV reports she called hotel staff, who told her they found the ring and would ship it back to her.
Schiano said she didn’t have to wait long before she received a UPS tracking number and was told a signature would be needed when the package arrived.
However, days later, her doorbell video camera captured a UPS driver leaving a package on the doorstep but then coming back to pick it up without ever returning.
Schiano said no one was home at the time of the delivery and the driver never scanned the item when he went back to his truck. She also contacted the shipping company.
“UPS got back to me and said, sorry, it’s lost, oops,” she said.
Schiano said the ring’s metal band had twists that were symbolic of her partnership, and it was valued at $12,000. But UPS only offered her $500, per the shipping documents.
“I understand it is a major shipper; I understand logistics are very hard ... but oops,” she said.
Schiano said she hopes her ring makes it back to her, but she still plans on getting married next month, just with another ring at the moment.
“Looking back, what could I have done differently? I don’t think there’s anything I could have done differently,” she said.
A UPS spokesperson said their team is looking into this issue.
Copyright 2022 WBTV via Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved. | https://www.wibw.com/2022/05/12/sorry-its-lost-ups-offering-500-after-losing-12k-engagement-ring-shipping-woman-says/ | 2022-05-12T20:35:42Z |
The company enables users to connect to authoritative GIS content from ArcGIS to build synthetic environments for AI training
BELLEVUE, Wash., April 25, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Rendered.ai, the leading platform for physics-based synthetic data, today announced a partnership with Esri, the global leader in location intelligence.
Finding and acquiring unbiased data to train algorithmic learning systems is expensive and time-consuming and significantly inhibits effective use of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) technologies. The Rendered.ai Platform as a Service enables customers working on AI and ML Computer Vision (CV) applications to be able to supplement real sensor datasets with engineered data that can help reduce bias, improve training accuracy, and support innovation.
After successful projects in Earth Observations with customers such as the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency, Rendered.ai intends to deepen the company's capability and technology for synthetic satellite and aerial training data using simulation capability ranging from visible light imagery to Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR).
"Many ArcGIS users have access to reality capture content, such as aerial and satellite imagery but are limited by the expense and difficulty of obtaining AI training datasets," said Chris Andrews, COO of Rendered.ai. "With the ability to combine ArcGIS services and Rendered.ai's capabilities, we have the opportunity to enable users to access inexpensive and easily configurable training data that can be used with Esri's deep learning tools to help extract knowledge and information from the content that users already own and license."
"We're excited to work with Rendered.ai to explore the exciting domain of synthetic data as an enabler of GeoAI," said Beau Legeer, Esri's Director of Remote Sensing and Imagery. "Esri has always been about achieving insight through data and analysis and Rendered's capabilities enable our users to unlock knowledge from their Imagery content to enhance their GIS through easier access to training data that works with our deep learning toolkit and other GeoAI applications."
Based on the partnership activity, Rendered.ai is releasing a new synthetic data application, the "Rendered.ai Channel for ArcGIS" that can be explored by users who are interested in combining existing satellite imagery with 3D content to generate example training data. The channel will be available for demonstration at the US Geospatial Intelligence Foundation's annual GEOINT symposium, happening in Aurora, Colorado in April. The integration with ArcGIS will be featured in a tutorial session on Creating and Using Synthetic Data for Computer Vision Applications on Tuesday morning of the event.
"The diversity and complexity of Earth Observation applications makes it hard for users to acquire enough data to be able to train and validate AI for their specific applications," said the CEO of Rendered.ai, Nathan Kundtz, Ph.D. "The Esri partnership enables whole new groups of users who previously had poor or no access to training data to use standard GIS services and content to make it easier than ever to train AI based on physically accurate simulated content."
About Esri
Esri, the global market leader in geographic information system (GIS) software, location intelligence, and mapping, helps customers unlock the full potential of data to improve operational and business results. Founded in 1969 in Redlands, California, USA, Esri software is deployed in more than 350,000 organizations globally and in over 200,000 institutions in the Americas, Asia and the Pacific, Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, including Fortune 500 companies, government agencies, nonprofits, and universities. Esri has regional offices, international distributors, and partners providing local support in over 100 countries on six continents. With its pioneering commitment to geospatial information technology, Esri engineers the most innovative solutions for digital transformation, the Internet of Things (IoT), and advanced analytics. Visit us at www.esri.com and at GEOINT 2022 in booth #523.
About Rendered.ai
Rendered.ai is a Platform as a Service for synthetic data generation that puts physically accurate sensor modeling and a closed-loop data engineering workflow in the hands of data scientists and innovators. Founded by physicist Nathan Kundtz, Rendered.ai has created and powers the first-ever developer framework for synthetic data, turning simulation tools into synthetic data capabilities which includes scenario generation, 3D model libraries, asset management, compute management, annotation, metadata management and more. Rendered.ai is a privately held company based in Bellevue, Washington. For more information on the company and to sign up for a free account, please visit: www.rendered.ai. You can also visit Rendered.ai at GEOINT 2022 in booth #835.
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SOURCE Rendered.ai | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/04/25/renderedai-joins-esri-partner-network-startup-program-create-synthetic-data-using-industry-standard-geospatial-services-content/ | 2022-04-25T19:45:07Z |
Stark County roundup: News from around the Canton region
Free concert
ALLIANCE – Rock Salt and Nails Band, an acoustic/Americana/roots band from Northeast Ohio, will perform a free concert at 7 p.m. Friday on the Caboose Stage, 238 E. Market St., as part of the Alliance Summer Concert Series.
Vigil scheduled
CANTON – A candlelight memorial vigil will be held at 6:30 p.m. July 16 at the Stark County Courthouse, 115 Central Plaza N, for the James Williams family and those impacted by police officer killings, according to a news release. The vigil is sponsored by Project ELSIE, The Williams Family and the NAACP-Legal Redress Committee. For more information, call 234-214-0037 330-949-1927
Chris Isaak at Palace
CANTON – Chris Isaak with special guest The Shootouts will perform at 8 p.m. Friday at the Palace Theatre, 605 Market Ave. N. Doors open at 7 p.m. For information and tickets, visit https://tinyurl.com/4ekp5n7a or call 330-454-8172.
Grecian Festival this week
CANTON – The Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, 4705 Fairhaven Ave. NW, will hold its annual Grecian Festival from 4 to 11 p.m. Wednesday and 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Thursday, Friday and Saturday.
The family-friendly and handicap-accessible event features homemade Greek cuisine and desserts with indoor and outdoor dining, as well as live entertainment, children's activities and church tours. Drive-thru and carryout meals; preorder online for drive-thru pickup.
See the menu at http://www.grecianfestivalcanton.com/images/festivalmenu.pdf. For more information or to preorder drive-thru food, visit http://www.grecianfestivalcanton.com.
Aultman College Preview Day
CANTON – Aultman College, 2600 Sixth St. SW, will hold a Preview Day – an open-house-style event for interested students – at 6 p.m. Wednesday. Students can tour college facilities and classrooms, meet with students, faculty and staff and view presentations about the various programs in nursing, radiography, social work, medical assisting and the health sciences, as well as College Credit Plus for high school students.
The event is free, but reservations are required. To learn more and RSVP, visit www.aultmancollege.edu/open-house.
Veterans resource fair Thursday
GREEN – The Stark County Veterans Service Commission will hold a veterans and dependents resource fair from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday at the MAPS Air Museum, 2260 International Parkway. There will be information, giveaways, food trucks and family fun. For more information, call the Stark County Veterans Service Commission at 330-451-7439.
Mosquito spraying in Hartville
HARTVILLE – The Stark County Health Department will spray for mosquitoes in Hartville on Tuesday. Spraying will take place after 8 p.m.. In case of rain, high winds or cold temperatures, spraying will be postponed. People who suffer from respiratory ailments may vacate the area. Beekeepers should take the necessary precautions to protect their hives.
5K run at Kent State Stark
JACKSON TWP. – The Pro Football Hall of Fame Enshrinement Festival Up, Up & Away 5K will be 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. July 30 on the Kent State University at Stark campus, 6000 Frank Ave. NW.
A free kids fun run will follow the 5K. For more information or to register, visit https://www.profootballhoffestival.com/events.
Concerts in Jackson Township
JACKSON TWP. – Wing It band, a harmony vocal-based acoustic trio, will perform a free concert from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Wednesday at the Jackson Amphitheater, 7454 Community Parkway NW.
The Prince Project, featuring the music of Prince, will perform from 7:30 to 10 p.m. Saturday. Tickets for this concert are for sale at www.jacksonamphitheater.com.
Stark State College sets open houses
JACKSON TWP. – Stark State College summer open houses will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday on the main campus, 6200 Frank Ave. NW, or Aug. 10 at Stark State College Akron, 360 Perkins St.
Prospective students and their guests can meet professors and admissions representatives, get help with the financial aid process, tour the campus, learn about student services and resources and explore program options. All 2022 high school graduates and GED holders also can learn about how they can get free fall tuition.
For more information and to RSVP, visit www.starkstate.edu/openhouse.
Mosquito spraying in Louisville
LOUISVILLE – The Stark County Health Department will spray for mosquitoes this week. On Wednesday, spraying will be north of state Route 153 within the city limits. On Thursday, spraying will be south of Route 153 within the city limits.
Spraying will take place after 8 p.m. In case of rain, high winds or cold temperatures, spraying will be postponed. People who suffer from respiratory ailments may vacate the area. Beekeepers should take the necessary precautions to protect their hives.
The Twelve of Ohio acquired
MASSILLON – Cadence Care Network, based in Niles, has acquired foster care service The Twelve of Ohio Inc.
Cadence Care will assume responsibility for additional office locations in Massillon at 619 Tremont Ave. SW, and in Toledo and Upper Sandusky, along with services in the Massillon and Toledo areas. This includes 10 employees, as well as foster care and behavioral health services for about 90 kids a year.
The Twelve Inc. was founded in 1965 to be a catalyst for social action in the community. As needs increased, the emphasis focused on youth services in general, and channeling the energies of youth toward volunteer activities, particularly on behalf of the needy.
Cadence Care Network, formerly Homes for Kids, is a nonprofit agency focusing on the behavioral and emotional well-being of more than 1,500 children and teenagers, as well as the treatment and placement of youth in compassionate and qualified foster care homes in a six-county region. To learn more, visit cadencecare.org.
Music in Massillon
MASSILLON – The city's free Summer Concert Series will present The Belairs at 7 p.m. Thursday at the amphitheater at Duncan Plaza.
Classic Memories will perform Monday. Attendees should bring lawn chairs for seating.
Island Party at museum
MASSILLON – The Massillon Museum, 121 Lincoln Way E, will hold its annual free and family-friendly Island Party from 5:30 to 11 p.m. Friday.
Carlos Jones and the PLUS Band will perform reggae. The University of Akron steel drum duo will perform from 6 to 6:45 p.m. Divine Entertainment will perform from 8:45 to 9:30 p.m.
Bring a lawn chair or blanket. Food and beverages will be available for purchase. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., and food service begins at 6. For more information, call 833-4061 or visit massillonmuseum.org. The museum's Aultman Health Foundation Gallery will be open until 8 p.m.
Artists' entries being accepted
MASSILLON – Entries for the Massillon Museum’s Stark County Artists Exhibition are due Aug. 15.
The annual exhibition is open to present and former Stark County residents and to those working in Stark County, 18 and older. Each artist may submit up to three digital images of artwork completed within the past two years. Artwork in any medium will be considered.
Prizes are Best in Show, $300; second place, $200; and third place, $100. Exhibition visitors will vote for the People’s Choice Award, $100. The exhibition will open Dec. 1 with a reception. The exhibition will continue through Jan. 15, 2023.
For artist guidelines and online entry form, visit www.massillonmuseum.org/scae. Paper entry forms are available at the museum reception desk. To receive a form by mail, email submissions@massillonmuseum.org or call 330-833-4061. A nonrefundable fee of $15 per artwork or $30 for three is due when entries are submitted. Artwork may be for sale; Massillon Museum will retain a 30% commission on work sold.
Artists who need help photographing their artwork for submission may contact Mandy Altimus Stahl, the museum’s archivist, at 330-833-4061, ext. 113, or mastahl@massillonmuseum.org for an appointment. The fee will be $5 per photo.
This year’s jurors will be Amber N. Ford, photographer and artist; Dave Szalay, artist and professor of graphic design University of Akron; and Janice Lessman-Moss, artist and head of textiles, Kent State University. They will select artwork to be included in the exhibition as well as the prizes.
Drifters to perform
MASSILLON – Bill Pinkney's Original Drifters will perform in concert from 4 to 6 p.m. July 17 at the Lions Lincoln Theatre, 156 Lincoln Way E.
Tickets are VIP seating: $30; main floor $25; balcony and wheelchair/companion $20. For tickets, call 330-481-9105 or visit https://www.tickettailor.com/events/lionslincolntheatre/702589#.
Concerts at Sippo Lake Park
PERRY TWP. – The Stark Parks free Summer Serenades in the Park series presents the Canton Symphony Orchestra’s Woodwind Quintet playing on the back patio of the Sippo Lake Park’s Exploration Gateway, 5712 12th St. NW, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday.
In case of inclement weather, the concert will be canceled. Check for updates the day of the concert at the Canton Symphony Orchestra Box Office at 330-452-2094. | https://www.cantonrep.com/story/news/2022/07/10/stark-county-roundup-news-around-canton-region/7780527001/ | 2022-07-10T22:35:59Z |
Hybrid, Multi-Day Event Returns to the New York Stock Exchange to Help Cybersecurity Professionals Stay on Top of Rapidly Evolving Threat Landscape
WATERLOO, ON, Aug. 24, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- BlackBerry Limited (NYSE: BB; TSX: BB), today announced that registration is now open for its 9th annual Security Summit. Bringing together industry experts and thought leaders from across the globe, the hybrid, multi-day event will include a mix of live, in-person and OnDemand sessions, fireside chats and interactive talks on cybersecurity innovations and best practices, prevention-first security, endpoint management, artificial intelligence, machine learning, key industry trends and more.
The BlackBerry Security Summit will take place at the New York Stock Exchange on Wednesday October 26th, with virtual sessions available to view on-demand in the Americas and EMEA from Thursday October 27th and Friday October 28th in APAC. The packed agenda will feature compelling keynote addresses with BlackBerry executives, multi-industry customer-led case study panels, talks from BlackBerry's Research & Intelligence team as well as additional sessions designed to critically engage and deepen attendees' understanding of the fast-moving and growing cybersecurity threat landscape.
BlackBerry CEO and Executive Chairman, John Chen will deliver the opening keynote highlighting the company's vision of building trust through connectivity, security, safety and privacy as well as provide a business update.
"Companies from around the world continue to place their trust in BlackBerry as they know that we have the talent, technology and expertise to keep them secure amidst a threat landscape that only seems to be gathering pace in size, complexity and victims compromised," said Mark Wilson, Chief Marketing Officer at BlackBerry. "Our much-anticipated annual Security Summit allows them and others to gain a first-hand look at how we're ensuring both our technology and threat intelligence stay on the cutting edge so they can sleep soundly at night knowing that BlackBerry has their back and always will. With a sharp mix of the world's best and brightest cybersecurity experts who are eager to share their battle-tested, real-world experiences, we look forward to returning to the famed New York Stock Exchange this coming October to share our vision for where the industry is headed and how organizations of all sizes and sectors can stay one step ahead of today's and tomorrow's malicious actors."
To register your attendance and stay updated on new sessions and speakers as they are added to this year's Security Summit please visit BlackBerry.com/SecuritySummit.
Follow more Security Summit updates and news on Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook.
About BlackBerry
BlackBerry (NYSE: BB; TSX: BB) provides intelligent security software and services to enterprises and governments around the world. The company secures more than 500M endpoints including over 215M vehicles. Based in Waterloo, Ontario, the company leverages AI and machine learning to deliver innovative solutions in the areas of cybersecurity, safety and data privacy solutions, and is a leader in the areas of endpoint security, endpoint management, encryption, and embedded systems. BlackBerry's vision is clear - to secure a connected future you can trust.
BlackBerry. Intelligent Security. Everywhere.
For more information, visit BlackBerry.com and follow @BlackBerry.
Trademarks, including but not limited to BLACKBERRY and EMBLEM Design are the trademarks or registered trademarks of BlackBerry Limited, and the exclusive rights to such trademarks are expressly reserved. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. BlackBerry is not responsible for any third-party products or services.
Media Contact:
BlackBerry Media Relations
+1 (519) 597-7273
mediarelations@BlackBerry.com
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SOURCE BlackBerry Limited | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/08/24/registration-now-open-blackberry-security-summit-2022/ | 2022-08-24T17:16:02Z |
The Whiskey of the West doubles down on its commitment to preserve the West and its inhabitants
PARK CITY, Utah, Aug. 8, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- High West, the Park City-based distillery known for its meticulously sourced and innovatively blended whiskeys, announces today its Protect the West initiative, a $1 million commitment over the next three years to protect the land and its inhabitants. The announcement coincides with the national release of High West's seasonal bottle Campfire, one of the brand's most unique and iconic expressions. In honor of Campfire, the first donation will benefit the Wildland Firefighter Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting the brave few who run towards the fire, including the wildfires increasingly plaguing the West.
Since opening its doors in 2007, High West has witnessed firsthand how the West has been impacted by a rapidly changing climate, resulting in higher temperatures, severe droughts, drier forests and reduced snowpack. Immediately taking note, the brand has donated more than $1M to nonprofits to date, with the majority of those funds going toward organizations protecting the West and its inhabitants. Now, High West is reaffirming and strengthening this commitment to its own backyard. As part of the Protect the West initiative, High West will partner with organizations that share High West's passion for the West and whose conservation efforts fall into three focus areas: the fight against wildfires, protecting winters and wildland preservation.
"Now is not the time for us to sit on the sidelines. Our home in the West and everything we love about it is in more and more danger every year," said Daniel Schear, General Manager of High West. "We're building on our past work with this $1 million commitment to protect the West, and we are excited to work with those who are also passionate about saving this beautiful part of the world we call home."
The $150,000 inaugural donation will be split between three organizations to support them in their crucial missions. Future donations will be announced over the course of the next three years as High West continues to identify and support organizations striving to Protect the West.
- Wildland Firefighter Foundation, dedicated to helping the families of firefighters killed in the line of duty and to assisting injured firefighters and their families.
- Protect Our Winters, a community of athletes, scientists, creatives, and business leaders advancing non-partisan policies to protect our outdoor playgrounds from climate change.
- American Prairie, creating the largest nature reserve in the contiguous United States by purchasing critical habitat that connects a vast network of existing public lands for wildlife conservation and public access.
In recognition of the Campfire release and to continue supporting the brave protectors who defend us from fires each and every day, High West is donating $50,000 to the Wildland Firefighter Foundation and matching consumer donations up to an additional $50,000. The American West is burning more quickly than it has in a decade, and over three million acres of U.S. land - almost the size of Connecticut - have burned so far this year.1 The donation to the Wildland Firefighter Foundation will directly benefit the families of fallen and injured firefighters, honoring those who tirelessly work to protect our lands.
Available nationally, Campfire ($79.99) is a unique blend of scotch, bourbon and whiskey with a complex flavor profile including s'mores, burnt almond toffee, mocha and tobacco, balsam fir needles, and woodsmoke from a long-forgotten campfire.
For more information, or to donate to the Wildland Firefighter Foundation, visit highwest.com/pages/protect-the-west.
# # #
Utah's first legal distillery since 1870, High West's passion is crafting delicious and distinctive whiskeys and helping people appreciate whiskey all in the context of our home, the American West. High West offers an outstanding collection of highly rated whiskeys in finer liquor stores, bars, and restaurants in all 50 U.S. states and internationally.
High West was honored to receive Whisky Advocate's prestigious Distiller of the Year award in 2016. The ultimate authority on whisky said, "High West delivers innovative and delicious whiskeys, expands the definition of what it is to be a distiller, and pioneered a successful new paradigm for craft distilling."
High West's must-visit locations include our High West Distillery in Wanship, Utah, a 30,000 square foot world-class distillery and visitor center featuring educational tours and High West's unique country-western cuisine; and our High West Distillery & Saloon in historic Old Town Park City, the world's only ski-in gastro distillery that was voted "Best Park City Restaurant" by readers of City Weekly. It has received multiple accolades including earning Best Après Ski Bar in Utah by USA TODAY's 10Best being named a finalist in the 2020 Park City's Best Awards for Best Après Ski, a nomination for Best Bar by the James Beard Foundation, and a top-10 ranking on The Daily Meal's list of 150 Best Bars in America.
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SOURCE High West | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/08/08/renowned-whiskey-brand-high-west-commits-one-million-dollars-protect-west/ | 2022-08-08T13:55:08Z |
- The funding will support expansion of the company's holistic-health and heart-health decision support solutions for health insurers and Medicare Advantage Plans
ASHEVILLE, N.C., July 21, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Ilumivu, Inc., a pioneer in predictive and personalized decision support systems to pre-diagnose health conditions announced that it has closed a new funding round with an investment from The Pisgah Fund. This follows an initial investment by Health Catalyst Capital, L.P. in October 2021.
Already a leader in heart health with over 3.7 million downloads of its mobile app called Cardiogram, ilumivu provides continuous cardiovascular monitoring to pre-diagnose conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, atrial fibrillation and sleep apnea. Using captured data from a standard smartwatch processed through trained neural networks with millions of cardiovascular data points, ilumivu can accurately pre-diagnose these conditions and help health nsurers, Medicare Advantage plans and at-risk employers reduce the total cost of care.
"Our solutions provide better outcomes for members while simultaneously reducing the total cost of care managing these conditions through early detection," states Sandeep Goel, Chief Executive Officer. "Our 13-year history of using early-signal data collected from wearables by our healthcare research customers is being applied to engage members, increase adherence, impact positive behavior changes, and provide monitoring for better member engagement."
"Smartwatches have been a source of valuable health insights in the consumer market, but it has been difficult to translate those insights into improved health outcomes in the broader healthcare system," said Lauren Pierce Flickinger, Fund Manager for the Pisgah Fund. "We are excited to partner with the ilumivu team as they provide health insurers and Medicare Advantage plans with a solution that bridges this gap.
"We are very excited to partner with The Pisgah Fund, given that both organizations are based here in Western North Carolina with a common mission to grow the healthcare technology eco-system and create economic opportunities in the greater Asheville area," added T. David Smith, President at ilumivu.
Founded in 2009, Asheville, NC based ilumivu provides healthcare decision support applications using the psychology of behavior change, combined with real-time data from smartwatches and smartphones to reduce healthcare costs. With a pedigree in research in multiple disease areas at over 100 leading research universities and health systems, ilumivu delivers just-in-time interventions based on individualized baselines to improve measurable member care outcomes. https://ilumivu.com/
Pisgah Fund is a $50 million venture fund investing in healthcare-related companies in Western North Carolina's 18-county region or locating operations in the region. The Fund focuses on high growth opportunities seeking early-stage VC investment that will create jobs in Western North Carolina. The Fund is managed by Hatteras Venture Partners and was created with investments from the Dogwood Health Trust and HCA Healthcare Mission Fund. https://pisgahfund.com
Contact: Stacy Earl, stacy.earl@ilumivu.com
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SOURCE ilumivu | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/07/21/ilumivu-announces-completion-venture-funding-pisgah-fund/ | 2022-07-21T15:55:25Z |
Which running watch is best?
If you love to run or are training for an event, you can take your preparation to the next level with a running watch. A quality running watch does much more than keep time and count your steps. It uses the latest technology to accurately track your health and progress. Many have smart capabilities, so you can also access your smartphone alerts and music for added motivation.
Running watches vary significantly in cost and complexity. Finding the right one depends on your fitness level, health goals and budget. The best is Fitbit Versa 2 Health and Fitness Smartwatch.
What to know before you buy a running watch
GPS
GPS takes the smartwatch to a whole new level. Running watches with GPS help runners more accurately track their distance, pace and speed instead of getting an estimate as you would with an app or step counter. GPS helps plan your workouts because you have access to more data and can lead to more improvement over time.
Some of the high-end running watches rely on GPS and are also compatible with the Russian-run system GLONASS, the EU-run system Galileo, China’s BDS and Japan’s QZSS. It’s not essential to have a watch with more than one satellite system, but it leads to more accurate data.
Battery life
GPS and satellite navigation are a big advantage, but it also depletes the battery. Many of these watches can last multiple days on a single charge, but when in GPS mode, the battery might only last 5-12 hours. A low battery can also affect certain features, such as the display screen’s brightness.
Versatility
A quality running watch has so many valuable features that it becomes the watch that many people rely on for everyday use. Consider factors such as size, comfort, style and weight before purchasing so you find a watch that looks and feels good when you aren’t working out.
What to look for in a quality running watch
Waterproof
Whether you plan to run in the rain or want a watch you can wear when swimming, look for a waterproof running watch that is water-resistant up to at least 100 meters.
Touchscreen
Touchscreen watches are becoming more popular and have a sleek, streamlined look, but they can be challenging to operate when running. It comes down to preference, but some runners prefer watches with physical buttons, especially when training in the cold weather or when wearing gloves.
Special features
In addition to getting notifications from your smartphone, many running watches can work with your wireless or running headphones. Many can also link up with Spotify, Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. Some brands, such as Garmin, have their own contactless payment programs linked to their running watches.
How much you can expect to spend on a running watch
The cost of a running watch depends on the brand, features and technology, but they start as low as $15 and go up to $500. The most high-tech running watches can cost $1,000 or more, but you can find quality running watches for $100-$200 that are good for beginner and intermediate athletes.
Running watch FAQ
Can my running watch track my sleep?
A. Yes! Some watches have features that help you track your daily strain, recovery, sleep cycles and circadian rhythm. They monitor your cardiovascular output and daily stressors, so you can better plan your recovery and adapt your training accordingly.
What’s the life span of a running watch?
A. It depends on the brand and model of the watch, how often it’s used, and how well you take care of it, but some high-quality watches can last three to five years.
What’s the best running watch to buy?
Top running watch
Fitbit Versa 2 Health and Fitness Smart Watch
What you need to know: You can track your workouts in real-time with this running watch that is waterproof and has built-in GPS.
What you’ll love: The multiday battery can last up to six days with regular use and up to 12 continuous hours when using GPS. You can set goals, track your exercise output, monitor your heart rate, analyze sleep, and access Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. It does require a Fitbit Premium Membership to access all content features, but new members get a six-month free trial.
What you should consider: Some customers felt overwhelmed by all of the extra features.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Top running watch for the money
What you need to know: This simple but practical and stylish running watch is waterproof and comes with a 200-lap memory.
What you’ll love: The features on this watch are easy to navigate, and the data clearly visible on the display screen. You can set up to five daily alarms, track your sleep and count your steps. It’s lightweight and the battery lasts long, so with average use, you don’t have to charge it every day.
What you should consider: This watch doesn’t have some of the advanced features standard on other running watches.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Worth checking out
Garmin Instinct Rugged Outdoor Watch
What you need to know: This durable watch was built to withstand the elements and meets military standards for being thermal-, shock- and water-resistant.
What you’ll love: With three global navigation systems, you never have to worry about getting lost or finding your way back to where you started. The smart notifications let you always stay connected. You can track your heart rate, activity and stress levels. The battery lasts for up to 14 days in smart mode and 16 hours in GPS mode. You can use the Garmin app to track your fitness and plan your training.
What you should consider: This is one of the more expensive watches and comes with technology and features not essential for beginners.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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Copyright 2022 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved. | https://cw33.com/reviews/br/sports-fitness-br/fitness-equipment-br/best-running-watch/ | 2022-05-19T08:52:31Z |
Roger Hardy, optical category leader and veteran in the eyecare business, is backing Lentesplus to boost its transformation from contact lenses digital pure player to omnichannel eyecare player providing glasses and optical services.
SÃO PAULO, April 12, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Roger Hardy, who has successfully built 2 multibillion dollar companies in the eye care sector in North America, is backing the Lentesplus team to undertake this new opportunity leveraging his vision and experience in the industry.
Hardy is the current CEO and founder of kits.com, a leading online eyecare player for North America. His entrepreneurial journey began much earlier with Coastal.com which became the largest eyewear retailer on the planet, being the first to sell over 1 million pairs of eyewear online back in 2010. After an IPO on Nasdaq, Roger sold the company to the Essilor group for US$450 million. This transaction was at the time Canada's largest e-commerce exit.
Today, in addition to running kits.com and managing the Hardy Family Foundation, a philanthropic institution designed to help the Canadian community, Roger also invests in fast-growing companies and sectors that are promising to achieve leadership positions in the market through his family office Hardy Capital.
Lentesplus.com is the leading online eyecare player in Latin America. Founded by two friends and now co-founders, Jaime Oriol and Diego Mariño, who met while studying for an MBA at the University of Wharton, saw a great opportunity to disrupt the eyecare industry in LATAM where there are more than 360 million possible customers.
Lentesplus' mission is to democratize and facilitate access to visual healthcare. The current market is estimated at 11 Bn USD and is expected to grow to +15 Bn USD by 2027. Growth is driven by a combination of (i) increased aging population, (ii) increased disposable income and (iii) increased awareness of visual correction problems. In addition, adoption of new technologies, such as smartphones and laptops, are currently deteriorating eye care health and will further drive demand growth
Already present in Colombia, Chile, Mexico and Argentina, Lentesplus recently acquired the leading independent online contact lens player in Brazil, Newlentes, effectively doubling Lentesplus' addressable market.
Lentesplus is now at the forefront of the eye care market consolidation in Latam. Its eyeglasses sales, both digital and in optical stores, are growing 4x month over month. Furthermore, new top and highly seasoned professionals of the industry are joining the team.
Hardy's joining Lentesplus is crucial to the company's aggressive and ambitious growth plans. "Latin America is an explosive market undergoing large secular change in the optical category. We are excited to be joining with the Lentesplus team as investors and believe that my experience and the expansion force of Jaime and Diego will contribute to the democratization of eye health and accelerated growth of the company creating a leader in this part of the globe", said Hardy.
According to Jaime Oriol and Diego Mariño, the arrival of Hardy consolidates the growth plans, as the company will be supported by a shareholder of great impact that has vast knowledge of the optical market.
Lentesplus shareholders include Ignia, Palm Drive Capital, Alumni Ventures, Stella Maris, Empire Group and Digital Garage Ventures.
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SOURCE Lentesplus | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/04/12/lentesplus-looks-become-leading-digital-eyecare-player-latam-backed-by-world-category-leader/ | 2022-04-12T21:15:38Z |
(The Conversation) – The conditions that led to a shortage of baby formula were set in motion long before the February 2022 closure of the Similac factory tipped the U.S. into a crisis.
Retailers nationwide reported supplies of baby formula were out of stock at a rate of 43% during the week ended May 8, 2022, compared with less than 5% in the first half of 2021. In some states, such as Texas and Tennessee, shortages were over 50%, which has prompted parents to travel long distances and pay exorbitant sums of money to grab dwindling supplies of formula for their babies.
News that the Food and Drug Administration and Similac-maker Abbott have reached a deal to reopen the formula factory in Sturgis, Michigan, is welcome news for desperate parents, but it will do little to alleviate the shortage anytime soon. This is in no small part because of the very nature of America’s baby formula industry.
I research and teach supply chain management, with a special focus on the health care industry. The closure of the Similac factory may have lit the fuse for the nationwide shortage, but a combination of government policy, industry market concentration and supply chain issues supplied the powder.
What prompted the baby formula shortage
On Feb. 17, Abbott initiated a voluntary recall after four infants were hospitalized with infections from the bacteria Cronobacter sakazakii – two of them died – after consuming baby formula manufactured in their Sturgis facility. The factory was also shut down.
The FDA has identified no new cases but has not yet approved reopening the Sturgis facility, which is responsible for about half of Abbott’s U.S. supply. Abbott said it entered into a consent decree with the FDA that paves the way to reopening the facility once certain conditions are met.
Shortages of baby formula have led major U.S. retailers including Target, CVS, Walgreens and Kroger to restrict the amount of formula a consumer may purchase. These shortages are disproportionately hurting low-income families and those who do not have the resources to travel long distances to find alternative sources of baby formula.
Government-created monopolies
The root of the problem begins with a concentration of production.
Two companies – Abbott and Reckitt Benckiser, which makes Enfamil – dominate the industry with about 80% of the U.S. market. Nestlé, which sells baby formula in the U.S. under its Gerber brand, controls another 10%.
Part of the reason these companies are so entrenched in their position is that Abbott, Reckitt and Nestlé are the only makers approved by the U.S. government to provide baby formula through the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children, known as WIC, which provides supplemental food to low-income families.
WIC, which reimburses companies at 15% of the wholesale cost, is responsible for 92% of supermarket sales of milk-based powder formula in 12-to 16-ounce containers and 51% of all sales in other sizes.
The federal government provides WIC grants to each state, which then contracts with one of the three companies. While WIC is a critical program to feed the most vulnerable, government support of this program has the unintended consequence of creating a de facto monopoly in each state.
The amount of WIC funding to these three established companies makes it difficult for any startup to make significant inroads in the baby formula industry. There is little chance they can capture the market share necessary to justify a significant investment. Since only a handful of manufacturing facilities are approved for production of baby formula in the U.S., startups don’t have the volume required to produce in these facilities.
Import restrictions
Another reason for the intense concentration is import controls.
About 98% of the formula consumed in the U.S. is produced domestically, whether by a U.S. or international company. While facilities abroad such as those in Mexico, Chile, Ireland and the Netherlands meet the FDA’s nutrition standards, a failure to meet its labeling guidelines prevents them from exporting to the U.S. As a result, some consumers order unapproved formula over the internet from Europe and elsewhere, which may then be confiscated at the border.
International manufactures also face high tariffs, which can be as high as 17.5% depending on volume. That’s one reason Canadian producers, which are subsidized by their government, have mostly steered clear of the U.S. market. And the United States Mexico Canada Agreement, which came into force in 2020, included a provision that made it even harder for Canada to ship baby formula south in an effort to protect domestic producers.
‘Lean’ supply chains
The pandemic-related problems that have beleaguered global supply chains have also played a role.
Like in other industries, baby formula makers have long tried to make their supply chains as “lean” and efficient as possible. That means they aimed to minimize the amount of time baby formula spent sitting – unprofitably – on warehouse shelves and send the goods from factory to retailer as quickly as possible. The problem is that when there’s a surge in demand or a drop in supply, shortages can result. The leaner the supply chain, the larger the potential disruption.
The WIC program also encourages a lean supply chain because it reimburses just 15% of the wholesale price. The huge volume means the companies can still be profitable, but the lower margins per sale encourage them to keep a very efficient supply chain.
In March 2020, formula sales surged as people stockpiled pretty much everything. But that led sales to drop as parents worked through all that extra formula. That prompted makers to reduce production. And now in 2022, demand jumped again, especially after reports spread of the Similac recall. And with demand soaring and supply down significantly because of the Sturgis plant’s closure, shortages were inevitable.
Shortage is far from over
Both the Biden administration and companies have announced a variety of measures to end the shortage.
Some companies, such as Reckitt, say they have stepped up production and are running factories seven days a week to get more formula to stores.
The FDA is expected to soon announce the loosening of import rules for baby formula, and some states are allowing WIC recipients to use their rebates to buy formula from companies other than the one on the contract. Abbott has already agreed to honor rebates for competitor products in states where they have WIC contracts.
Abbott and Nestlé are also speeding up shipments from their FDA-approved facilities overseas.
The best way to end the shortage – getting the Sturgis plant online and its formula on retail shelves – will take two months.
Ultimately, preventing this kind of situation from happening again will require changes to government policy and business practices. I believe the government’s de facto monopolies should be opened up to more competition. And formula makers may just have to accept a little less profit from supply chain efficiencies as a cost of doing business – and as a way to ensure families won’t again be faced with the loss of a product so vital to their babies’ survival. | https://cw33.com/news/nexstar-media-wire/baby-formula-industry-was-primed-for-disaster-long-before-key-factory-closed-down/ | 2022-05-19T16:54:28Z |
NEW YORK, April 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Pomerantz LLP is investigating claims on behalf of investors of SunPower Corporation ("SunPower" or the "Company") (NASDAQ: SPWR). Such investors are advised to contact Robert S. Willoughby at newaction@pomlaw.com or 888-476-6529, ext. 7980.
The investigation concerns whether SunPower and certain of its officers and/or directors have engaged in securities fraud or other unlawful business practices.
On January 20, 2022, SunPower announced that it had "identified a cracking issue that developed over time in certain factory-installed connectors" and that the Company "expects approximately $27 million of supplier-quality related charges in fourth quarter 2021 and approximately $4 million in the first quarter of 2022" to replace the faulty connectors.
On this news, SunPower's stock price fell $3.22 per share, or 16.9%, to close at $15.80 per share on January 21, 2022.
Pomerantz LLP, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, Paris, and Tel Aviv, is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, Pomerantz pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 85 years later, Pomerantz continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered numerous multimillion-dollar damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomlaw.com.
CONTACT:
Robert S. Willoughby
Pomerantz LLP
rswilloughby@pomlaw.com
888-476-6529 ext. 7980
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SOURCE Pomerantz LLP | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/04/11/shareholder-alert-pomerantz-law-firm-investigates-claims-behalf-investors-sunpower-corporation-spwr/ | 2022-04-12T00:46:01Z |
- Golden Nugget Online Gaming completes the online sports betting platform lineup for Boot Hill Casino & Resort -
OLATHE, Kan., Aug. 25, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Butler National Corporation (OTCQB: BUKS), through its wholly-owned subsidiary that manages Boot Hill Casino & Resort in Dodge City, Kansas, has entered into an agreement with Golden Nugget Online Gaming, LLC (GNOG), a subsidiary of DraftKings, Inc. (NASDAQ: DKNG), that could bring GNOG's online interactive sportsbook to Kansas, subject to receipt of licenses and regulatory approvals.
Butler National is a recognized provider of professional management services in the gaming industry and a leader in special mission aircraft modifications. As the Boot Hill Casino manager for the State of Kansas, the new sports betting law allows Butler National's subsidiary, subject to regulatory approvals, to contract with three sports wagering platform providers, in addition to offering sports wagering at a retail sportsbook in the Boot Hill Casino facility located in Dodge City.
"We are working diligently with regulators to bring sports betting to Kansans by September 1, 2022. We're pleased with the regulatory efforts by the State of Kansas to implement sports wagering in Kansas," added Stewart.
Upon the launch of sports wagering in Kansas, anyone legally permitted within the geographical boundaries of Kansas will be able to place bets directly from their mobile devices or computers by accessing a participating sports book or visiting a lottery gaming facility.
"Golden Nugget Online Gaming is a recognized and established brand within the gaming industry. We're thrilled our customers may soon experience all the excitement that online sports betting has to offer with this popular platform," added Stewart. "In addition, we're excited for DraftKings, as the parent company of Golden Nugget Online Gaming, to be able to bring Kansans a seamless, safe and premium sports betting experience through its Golden Nugget Online Gaming branded sportsbook, subject to receipt of requisite regulatory approvals."
GNOG's mobile sportsbook would offer eligible Kansans a robust, interactive suite of sports betting solutions and Kansas City fans will recognize the "Golden Nugget Online Gaming" brand as a trusted and legacy provider of gaming entertainment.
"We are looking forward to driving new tourism and revenue for the State of Kansas into Dodge City," said Stewart. "Sports betting at Boot Hill Casino will give guests another exciting reason to visit Dodge City."
Butler National Corporation has been a recognized provider of professional management services in the gaming industry for more than 25 years. Following the enactment of the Kansas Expanded Lottery Act (KELA), Butler National competed for a contract to manage a Lottery Gaming Facility for the State of Kansas. In 2008, Butler National Service Corporation (a Butler National Corporation subsidiary) proposed and was awarded a contract to manage the Boot Hill Casino & Resort in Dodge City. When Boot Hill Casino opened in 2009, it was the first state-owned and operated casino in Kansas. In addition to its gaming division, Butler National manufactures, sells and services support systems for private, commercial and military aircraft.
Boot Hill Casino & Resort, managed by BHCMC, LLC and Butler National Service Corporation, wholly-owned subsidiaries of Butler National Corporation (OTCQB: BUKS), features over 500 electronic gaming machines, 14 table games, and a 150-seat casual dining restaurant known as Firesides at Boot Hill.
The $90 million Boot Hill Casino project opened in December 2009. The lottery facility games at Boot Hill Casino & Resort are owned and operated by the Kansas Lottery. The Kansas Racing and Gaming Commission provides regulatory oversight for the casino. For more information about Boot Hill Casino & Resort, please visit us at www.boothillcasino.com, or call us at 1.877.906.0777.
Statements made in this report, other reports and proxy statements filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, communications to stockholders, press releases, and oral statements made by representatives of the Company that are not historical in nature, or that state the Company or management intentions, hopes, beliefs, expectations or predictions of the future, may constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act"). Forward-looking statements can often be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology, such as "could," "should," "will," "intended," "continue," "believe," "may," "expect," "hope," "anticipate," "goal," "forecast," "plan," "guidance" or "estimate" or the negative of these words, variations thereof or similar expressions. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance or results. They involve risks, uncertainties, and assumptions. It is important to note that any such performance and actual results, financial condition or business, could differ materially from those expressed in such forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause or contribute to such differences include, but are not limited to, those discussed in Item 1A of the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K, incorporated herein by reference. Risk Factors and elsewhere herein or in other reports filed with the SEC. Other unforeseen factors not identified herein could also have such an effect. We undertake no obligation to update or revise forward-looking statements to reflect changed assumptions, the occurrence of unanticipated events or changes in future operating results, financial condition or business over time.
FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT:
THE WORLDWIDE WEB:
Please review www.butlernational.com for information about Butler National Corporation and its subsidiaries.
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SOURCE Butler National Corporation | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/08/25/butler-national-casino-announces-mobile-sports-betting-agreement-with-golden-nugget-online-gaming/ | 2022-08-25T17:30:02Z |
Highlands County Sheriff’s deputy involved in deadly shooting
HIGHLANDS COUNTY, Fla. (WWSB) - The Highland County Sheriff confirmed Friday that a deputy was involved in a deadly shooting.
The incident occurred in the overnight hours of June 24. At 2:30 a.m., the Highlands County Sheriff’s Office received a call for service from the Florida Highway Patrol regarding a white van traveling north in the southbound lanes of US 27 near State Road 70 in the Lake Placid area. Deputies responded and at 2:31 a.m., they located a white Econoline van in the area.
Deputies followed the van for a short period and then conducted a traffic stop at 2:33 a.m., a mile north of Sun ‘n Lakes Blvd. south near Lake Placid.
During the traffic stop, a deputy made contact with the driver and sole occupant of the van. During the traffic stop, the deputy decided to issue the driver, 68-year-old white male Robert W. McNamara, a citation for failure to maintain a single lane.
While the deputy was writing the citation, Mr. McNamara refused to stay in his vehicle. During a press conference, the sheriff told the media that McNamara became hostile.
As the deputy was completing the citation, officials say McNamara exited his van and approached the deputy, producing a black in color, pistol-grip shotgun and fired a round at the deputy. Two deputies returned fire, striking McNamara several times. They immediately called for medical assistance and attempted life saving measures.
McNamara was pronounced dead at 3:23 a.m.
The two deputies involved in this situation were not injured and have been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of this investigation.
You can view the press conference below.
Copyright 2022 WWSB. All rights reserved. | https://www.mysuncoast.com/2022/06/24/highlands-county-sheriffs-deputy-involved-shooting/ | 2022-06-24T19:15:37Z |
More storms expected later this week
It’s feeling hot hot hot
SARASOTA, Fla. (WWSB) - With high pressure anchored east of Florida so we can expect to see sea breeze storms developing each day this week. On Tuesday and Wednesday those storms will be limited as drier air moves in but by Thursday it will get a little more active as some additional moisture moves back in.
For Tuesday we can expect mostly sunny skies to start the day with a few clouds developing in the afternoon as the sea breeze kicks in. Because the atmosphere will be a little drier we wont see as many storms developing in the afternoon as we saw on Monday. Isolated showers and a possible thunderstorm is possible on Tuesday but mainly inland. The rain chance is at 20%. Winds will be out of the SE at 10-15 mph to start the day and then switch around to the west as the sea breeze develops and pushes inland. Highs on Tuesday will reach into the mid 80s at the coast and low 90s inland. The heat index will be approaching 100 by late afternoon.
Wednesday will be similar to Tuesday with only a few late day storms. Highs will once again be in the mid to upper 80s near the coast and low 90s well inland.
By Thursday we will see additional moisture move back in as a frontal boundary moves into N. Florida. This will bring a little better chance for scattered showers and a few thunderstorms.
Friday and Saturday expect to see an increase cloudiness along with a good chance for showers and thunderstorms the rain chance jumps to 50%. Some of the storms will contain some heavy rain at times.
Sunday and Monday a little drier air settles in but still at 40% chance for showers and thunderstorms for a few late day storms to develop.
Copyright 2022 WWSB. All rights reserved. | https://www.mysuncoast.com/2022/05/24/more-storms-expected-later-this-week/ | 2022-05-24T03:53:49Z |
Legends Competition: Survival of the Bear will be the first trading competition held on dYdX; winner is awarded $30,000 USDC and 1 Hedgie NFT
NEW YORK, July 6, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- dYdX Trading Inc., developer of the leading decentralized derivatives exchange, dYdX, today announced the Legends Competition: Survival of the Bear ("Legends Competition"), the inaugural influencer trading competition that will be hosted on the dYdX protocol. The Legends Competition will pin notable crypto Twitter influencers and traders against one another for cash prizes and bragging rights.
The week-long competition began today at 14:00 UTC and will see traders battle to achieve the highest percentage P&L before Wednesday, July 13 at 14:00 UTC. Each contestant will start with $2,500 USDC in their account courtesy of dYdX. The top three contenders will win $30,000 USDC, $15,000 USDC, and $5,000 USDC, respectively. Each winner will also receive one Hedgie–an exclusive dYdX NFT, and all contestants can keep their initial $2,500 USDC and any profits generated. P&L rankings will be determined by formulas for Dollar PNL and Percent PNL.
dYdX CEO and Founder, Antonio Juliano, commented on today's news, "The competition is set to bring some of the brightest minds in trading into a competition with legitimate stakes. dYdX is the best place to trade on a decentralized exchange, and we are excited to not only see premier traders battling on our protocol, but also showcase their abilities and provide insights into their philosophies."
Throughout the competition, dYdX will host Twitter Spaces with various contestants to discuss their trading strategies and opinions on current market conditions. The Spaces are a great opportunity for the dYdX community to navigate markets together.
A leaderboard will be updated hourly at https://trade.dydx.exchange/rankings/legends.
For more information, please visit: https://dydx.exchange/blog/legends-competition
About dYdX
dYdX is the developer of a leading decentralized exchange on a mission to build open, secure, and powerful financial products. dYdX runs on audited smart contracts on Ethereum, which eliminates the need to trust a central exchange while trading. We combine the security and transparency of a decentralized exchange, with the speed and usability of a centralized exchange.
Media Contact
Dillon Arace
M Group Strategic Communications (for dYdX)
+1 315 512 6886
dydx@mgroupsc.com
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SOURCE dYdX | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/07/06/dydx-introduces-inaugural-legends-trading-competition/ | 2022-07-06T19:34:11Z |
Woman accused of selling rental car for more than $22,000, authorities say
SAN ANTONIO, Texas (KWTX/Gray News) - A Texas woman is wanted for allegedly selling a car that she did not own.
The Bexar County Sheriff’s Office reports a resident met with a woman on Feb. 10 to purchase a 2021 Toyota Tacoma from Craigslist for $22,500.
KWTX reports the woman, not yet identified by police, provided a Texas driver’s license, vehicle registration and a title to validate the purchase of the vehicle, according to the complaint.
Authorities said the Bexar County resident went ahead and purchased the vehicle for $22,500.
However, when the purchaser looked around the vehicle, they discovered documentation showing the car was registered to a rental company out of Arlington.
Authorities described the woman who reportedly sold the vehicle as Hispanic with long dark hair and a skin condition known as vitiligo that causes loss of skin color.
The sheriff’s department urged anyone with further information regarding this incident to contact their office at 210-335-6000.
Copyright 2022 KWTX via Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved. | https://www.wibw.com/2022/08/12/woman-accused-selling-rental-car-more-than-22000-authorities-say/ | 2022-08-12T20:29:56Z |
HONG KONG (AP) — Chinese authorities arrested nine people on suspicion of violently assaulting several women at a restaurant after surveillance footage of the attack sparked widespread outrage.
Footage from a barbecue restaurant in Tangshan in northern Hebei province, time stamped 2:40 a.m. Friday, showed one of the men approaching a table where a party of four women were seated and placing his hand on a woman’s back.
She rebuffed him several times before he flew into a rage and slapped her, prompting her to fight back. A brawl ensued, with a group of men entering the restaurant and brutally attacking the woman and her dining partners, including shoving them to the ground, kicking them and even throwing a chair at them.
Footage taken from outside the restaurant also showed the attackers dragging the woman who had rebuffed the man’s advances out of the establishment and beating her viciously while most passersby and patrons looked on.
Photographs of her lying on a stretcher, with a swollen and bloodied face, as well as footage of the attack, went viral online.
The assault and the public outcry renewed a conversation about misogyny and mistreatment of women in China. Earlier this year, a viral video of a woman being chained to a wall in a hut drew public backlash after authorities initially denied that she was a victim of human trafficking. She was later found to have been sold as a bride.
All nine suspects were arrested Saturday, according to a statement by authorities issued on microblogging platform Weibo.
Two women had sustained non-life-threatening injuries and were receiving treatment in a hospital. Their condition was reported to be stable. Two others were slightly injured.
The footage of what happened both inside and outside the restaurant was just under five minutes. The Weibo user who was among the first to post the videos said in a post that it was “heartbreaking” to watch.
“Does that mean that dining out is so unsafe now, do we have to bring men with us everywhere we go?” the post read. “(These men) are no different from thugs.”
When reached, the user declined to reveal the source of the videos, stating that it was “inconvenient” to do so. By Sunday, the video of footage filmed inside the restaurant had garnered over 68 million views, while the footage showing the graphic assault outside the restaurant had been taken down.
Social media users have condemned the attack and criticized Tangshan police for being slow in arresting the suspects.
“I’m a woman, and I have a daughter,” said one Weibo user with the handle BaobaomaoDaren. “I wonder — as I’m creating value for society and spreading positive energy, will this society protect me and my child?”
State broadcaster CCTV said in an online commentary that the suspects must be arrested as quickly as possible and “punished severely in accordance with the law” in order to account to the victims and the public.
___
Associated Press news researchers Caroline Chen and Henry Hou in Beijing contributed to this report. | https://cw33.com/news/international/ap-international/9-arrested-after-vicious-assault-on-women-in-north-china/ | 2022-06-12T17:43:08Z |
NEW YORK, July 20, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- This press release provides shareholders of Cohen & Steers Quality Income Realty Fund, Inc. (NYSE: RQI) (the "Fund") with information regarding the sources of the distribution to be paid on July 29, 2022 and cumulative distributions paid fiscal year-to-date.
In December 2012, the Fund implemented a managed distribution policy in accordance with exemptive relief issued by the Securities and Exchange Commission. The managed distribution policy seeks to deliver the Fund's long-term total return potential through regular monthly distributions declared at a fixed rate per common share. The policy gives the Fund greater flexibility to realize long-term capital gains throughout the year and to distribute those gains on a regular monthly basis to shareholders. The Board of Directors of the Fund may amend, terminate or suspend the managed distribution policy at any time, which could have an adverse effect on the market price of the Fund's shares.
The Fund's monthly distributions may include long-term capital gains, short-term capital gains, net investment income and/or return of capital for federal income tax purposes. Return of capital includes distributions paid by the Fund in excess of its net investment income and net realized capital gains and such excess is distributed from the Fund's assets. A return of capital is not taxable; rather, it reduces a shareholder's tax basis in his or her shares of the Fund. In addition, distributions from the Fund's investments in real estate investment trusts (REITs) may later be characterized as capital gains and/or a return of capital, depending on the character of the dividends reported to the Fund after year end by REITs held by the Fund. The amount of monthly distributions may vary depending on a number of factors, including changes in portfolio and market conditions.
At the time of each monthly distribution, information will be posted to cohenandsteers.com and mailed to shareholders in a concurrent notice. However, this information may change at the end of the year because the final tax characteristics of the Fund's distributions cannot be determined with certainty until after the end of the calendar year. Final tax characteristics of all of the Fund's distributions will be provided on Form 1099-DIV, which is mailed after the close of the calendar year.
The following table sets forth the estimated amounts of the current distribution and the cumulative distributions paid this fiscal year-to-date from the sources indicated. All amounts are expressed per common share.
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 policy. The amounts and sources of distributions reported in this Notice are only estimates, are likely to change over time, and are not being provided for tax reporting purposes. The actual amounts and sources of the amounts for accounting and 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 amounts and sources of distributions year-to-date may be subject to additional adjustments.
*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's Year-to-date Cumulative Total Return for fiscal year 2022 (January 1, 2022 through June 30, 2022) is set forth below. Shareholders should take note of the relationship between the Year-to-date Cumulative Total Return with the Fund's Cumulative Distribution Rate for 2022. In addition, the Fund's Average Annual Total Return for the five-year period ending June 30, 2022 is set forth below. Shareholders should note the relationship between the Average Annual Total Return with the Fund's Current Annualized Distribution Rate for 2022. The performance and distribution rate information disclosed in the table is based on the Fund's net asset value per share (NAV). The Fund's NAV is calculated as the total market value of all the securities and other assets held by the Fund minus the total liabilities, divided by the total number of shares outstanding. While NAV performance may be indicative of the Fund's investment performance, it does not measure the value of a shareholder's individual investment in the Fund. The value of a shareholder's investment in the Fund is determined by the Fund's market price, which is based on the supply and demand for the Fund's shares in the open market.
Fund Performance and Distribution Rate Information:
Investors should consider the investment objectives, risks, charges and expense of the Fund carefully before investing. You can obtain the Fund's most recent periodic reports, when available, and other regulatory filings by contacting your financial advisor or visiting cohenandsteers.com. These reports and other filings can be found on the Securities and Exchange Commission's EDGAR Database. You should read these reports and other filings carefully before investing.
Shareholders should not use the information provided here in preparing their tax returns. Shareholders will receive a Form 1099-DIV for the calendar year indicating how to report Fund distributions for federal income tax purposes.
SOURCE: Cohen & Steers, Inc.
Website: https://www.cohenandsteers.com
Symbol: (NYSE: CNS)
About Cohen & Steers. Cohen & Steers is a leading global investment manager specializing in real assets and alternative income, including real estate, preferred securities, infrastructure, resource equities, commodities, as well as multi-strategy solutions. Founded in 1986, the firm is headquartered in New York City, with offices in London, Dublin, Hong Kong, and Tokyo.
Forward-Looking Statements
This press release and other statements that Cohen & Steers may make may contain forward looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, which reflect the company's current views with respect to, among other things, its operations and financial performance. You can identify these forward-looking statements by the use of words such as "outlook," "believes," "expects," "potential," "continues," "may," "will," "should," "seeks," "approximately," "predicts," "intends," "plans," "estimates," "anticipates," or the negative versions of these words or other comparable words. Such forward-looking statements are subject to various risks and uncertainties.
Accordingly, there are or will be important factors that could cause actual outcomes or results to differ materially from those indicated in these statements. The company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or review any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise.
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SOURCE Cohen & Steers, Inc. | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/07/20/cohen-amp-steers-quality-income-realty-fund-inc-rqi-notification-sources-distribution-under-section-19a/ | 2022-07-21T00:40:53Z |
Multiple counties gather to compete in Special Olympics
SARASOTA, Fla. (WWSB) - The Area 7 North Swimming Competition took place on the morning of August 27th. Athletes from Sarasota, Lee, Charlotte, Manatee, and Collier counties competed at the Selby Aquatics center in Sarasota.
Stanley Sylverain, the manager of sports training and competition for Area 7 North stated, “we are able able to change people with intellectual disabilities’ lives. It’s a great turnout and a great thing to do, so the fact that we have the volunteers willing to donate their time and an incredible staff makes me thankful for this incredible job and opportunity”.
Nearly 100 athletes gathered to compete in multiple events including the 200-to-800-meter backstroke, freestyle, and butterfly races. Volunteers from across every county came to help with the Olympics including 24 students from Cardinal Mooney High School.
Copyright 2022 WWSB. All rights reserved. | https://www.mysuncoast.com/2022/08/27/multiple-counties-gather-compete-special-olympics/ | 2022-08-27T20:09:59Z |
- GAAP and adjusted EPS for the quarter of $0.29 and $0.32 per diluted share, respectively
- Revenue increased 27% sequentially due to strong customer demand
- Adjusted EBITDA increased 77% sequentially
- Oil & Gas segment contribution margin increased 73% sequentially
- Industrial & Specialty Products segment contribution margin increased 21% sequentially
- Repurchased $100 million of debt at a discount to par using cash on hand in July
KATY, Texas, July 29, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- U.S. Silica Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: SLCA) (the "Company"), a diversified industrial minerals company and the leading last-mile logistics provider to the oil and gas industry, today announced net income of $22.9 million, or $0.29 per diluted share, for the second quarter ended June 30, 2022. The second quarter results were negatively impacted by $2.4 million pre-tax, or $0.03 per diluted share after-tax, of charges primarily related to merger and acquisition related expense and facility closure costs, resulting in adjusted EPS (a non-GAAP measure) of $0.32 per diluted share.
These results compared with a net loss of $8.4 million, or $0.11 per diluted share, for the first quarter of 2022, which were negatively impacted by $9.4 million pre-tax, or $0.09 per diluted share after-tax, of charges primarily related to a supplier contract termination and merger and acquisition related expenses, resulting in an adjusted loss of $0.02 per diluted share.
Bryan Shinn, Chief Executive Officer, commented, "We delivered an exceptional second quarter with outstanding sales volume, revenue, earnings and cash generation across the company. By capitalizing on the strength in our underlying markets and improved operational efficiencies, we generated a 77% sequential increase in adjusted EBITDA, and $88 million of cash flow from operations. We continued to experience robust customer demand during the quarter and implemented numerous price increases and surcharges across both business units to fight inflationary impacts. In addition, I am extremely proud of our organization's execution during the second quarter as we creatively improved international logistics performance, increased plant outputs and delivered world class safety performance.
"In our Oil & Gas segment, the supply and demand balance in the sand and last mile logistics market remains very tight and we were effectively sold out due to strong well completion demand, particularly in West Texas. During the second quarter, we took advantage of operational efficiency gains at key mine sites to maximize production and our sand and SandBox sales prices and margins continued to move higher. Given the expectation for a multi-year energy up cycle, customers have been determined to secure sand supply and are signing attractive multi-year contracts, including paying cash up front.
"In our Industrial & Specialty Products segment, demand remained strong across end market segments. The transitory seasonal issues we experienced in the first quarter were resolved and we realized a very strong rebound in the second quarter, driven by price increases and surcharges across all major product lines to combat inflation, improved product mix, and greater operational efficiencies from initiatives such as leveraging alternate shipping ports and packaging automation.
"During the first half of 2022, our businesses generated significant profitability and levels of free cash flow that afforded us the ability to opportunistically repurchase $100 million of debt at a discount to par using cash on hand earlier this month. Given that we expect continued meaningful free cash flow generation in the second half of 2022, we anticipate further reductions in our net debt, and are forecasting continued positive momentum in the third quarter."
Second Quarter 2022 Highlights
Total Company
- Revenue of $388.5 million for the second quarter of 2022 increased 27% compared with $304.9 million in the first quarter of 2022 and increased 22% when compared with the second quarter of 2021.
- Overall tons sold of 4.652 million for the second quarter of 2022 increased 13% compared with 4.134 million tons sold in the first quarter of 2022 and increased 13% when compared with the second quarter of 2021.
- Contribution margin of $123.3 million for the second quarter of 2022 increased 49% compared with $82.6 million in the first quarter of 2022 and increased 55% when compared with the second quarter of 2021 after excluding the $48.9 million customer settlement.
- Adjusted EBITDA of $93.8 million for the second quarter of 2022 increased 77% compared with $52.9 million in the first quarter of 2022 and increased 72% when compared with the second quarter of 2021 after excluding the $48.9 million customer settlement.
Oil & Gas
- Revenue of $244.2 million for the second quarter of 2022 increased 39% when compared with $176.2 million in the first quarter of 2022 and increased 26% when compared with the second quarter of 2021.
- Tons sold of 3.528 million for the second quarter of 2022 increased 15% compared with 3.060 million tons sold in the first quarter of 2022 and increased 17% when compared with the second quarter of 2021.
- Segment contribution margin of $77.4 million, or $21.93 per ton, increased 73% when compared with $44.8 million in the first quarter of 2022 and increased 129% when compared with the second quarter of 2021 after excluding the $48.9 million customer settlement.
Industrial & Specialty Products (ISP)
- Revenue of $144.3 million for the second quarter of 2022 increased 12% compared with $128.6 million in the first quarter of 2022 and increased 16% when compared with the second quarter of 2021.
- Tons sold of 1.124 million for the second quarter of 2022 increased 5% when compared with 1.074 million tons sold in the first quarter of 2022 and increased 4% when compared with the second quarter of 2021.
- Segment contribution margin of $45.9 million, or $40.85 per ton, for the second quarter of 2022 increased 21% compared with $37.8 million in the first quarter of 2022 and was flat when compared with the second quarter of 2021.
Capital Update
As of June 30, 2022, the Company had $312.4 million in cash and cash equivalents and total debt was $1.205 billion. The Company's $100.0 million Revolver had zero drawn, with $21.6 million allocated for letters of credit, and availability of $78.4 million. During the second quarter of 2022, the Company generated $88.1 million in cash flow from operations and capital expenditures in the second quarter totaled $10.5 million.
Outlook and Guidance
Looking forward to the third quarter and second half of 2022, the Company's two business segments remain well positioned for growth in their respective markets. The Company has a strong portfolio of industrial and specialty products that serve numerous essential, high growth and attractive end markets, supported by a robust pipeline of new products under development, as well as growth in its underlying base business and pricing increases and surcharges to continue to fight inflationary impacts.
The oil and gas industry is progressing through what is anticipated to be a multi-year growth cycle. Strength in both WTI crude oil and natural gas prices are promising for an active well completions environment throughout the second half of 2022 and into 2023.
The Company remains focused on generating free cash flow and de-levering the balance sheet and intends on being operating cash flow positive in 2022, keeping an estimated $40-$60 million of capital expenditures within operating cash flow.
Conference Call
U.S. Silica will host a conference call for investors today, July 29, 2022 at 7:30 a.m. Central Time to discuss these results. Hosting the call will be Bryan Shinn, Chief Executive Officer and Don Merril, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. Investors are invited to listen to a live webcast of the conference call by visiting the "Investors- Events & Presentations" section of the Company's website at www.ussilica.com. The webcast will be archived for one year. The call can also be accessed live over the telephone by dialing (877) 869-3847 or for international callers, (201) 689-8261. A replay will be available shortly after the call and can be accessed by dialing (877) 660-6853 or for international callers, (201) 612-7415. The conference ID for the replay is 13731716. The replay will be available through August 29, 2022.
About U.S. Silica
U.S. Silica Holdings, Inc. is a global performance materials company and is a member of the Russell 2000. The Company is a leading producer of commercial silica used in the oil and gas industry and in a wide range of industrial applications. Over its 122-year history, U.S. Silica has developed core competencies in mining, processing, logistics and materials science that enable it to produce and cost-effectively deliver over 600 diversified products to customers across our end markets. U.S. Silica's wholly-owned subsidiaries include EP Minerals and SandBox Logistics™. EP Minerals is an industry leader in the production of products derived from diatomaceous earth, perlite, engineered clays, and non-activated clays. SandBox Logistics™ is a state-of-the-art leader in proppant storage, handling and well-site delivery, dedicated to making proppant logistics cleaner, safer and more efficient. The Company has 28 operating mines and processing facilities and is headquartered in Katy, Texas.
Forward-looking Statements
This second quarter 2022 earnings release, as well as other statements we make, contain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the federal securities laws - that is, statements about the future, not about past events. Forward-looking statements give our current expectations and projections relating to our financial condition, results of operations, plans, objectives, future performance and business. These statements may include words such as "anticipate," "estimate," "expect," "project," "plan," "intend," "believe," "may," "will," "should," "could," "can have," "likely" and other words and terms of similar meaning. Forward-looking statements made include any statement that does not directly relate to any historical or current fact and may include, but are not limited to, statements regarding U.S. Silica's growth opportunities, strategy, future financial results, forecasts, projections, plans and capital expenditures, technological innovations, the impacts of COVID-19 on the Company's operations, and the commercial silica industry. Forward-looking statements are based on our current expectations and assumptions, which may not prove to be accurate. These statements are not guarantees and are subject to risks, uncertainties and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict. Many factors could cause actual results to differ materially and adversely from these forward-looking statements. Among these factors are global economic conditions; the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on markets the Company serves; supply chain and logistics constraints for our company and our customers, fluctuations in demand for commercial silica, diatomaceous earth, perlite, clay and cellulose; fluctuations in demand for frac sand or the development of either effective alternative proppants or new processes to replace hydraulic fracturing; the entry of competitors into our marketplace; changes in production spending by companies in the oil and gas industry and changes in the level of oil and natural gas exploration and development; changes in oil and gas inventories; general economic, political and business conditions in key regions of the world; pricing pressure; cost inflation; weather and seasonal factors; the cyclical nature of our customers' business; our inability to meet our financial and performance targets and other forecasts or expectations; our substantial indebtedness and pension obligations, including restrictions on our operations imposed by our indebtedness; operational modifications, delays or cancellations; prices for electricity, natural gas and diesel fuel; our ability to maintain our transportation network; changes in government regulations and regulatory requirements, including those related to mining, explosives, chemicals, and oil and gas production; silica-related health issues and corresponding litigation; and other risks and uncertainties detailed in this press release and our most recent Forms 10-K, 10-Q, and 8-K filed with or furnished to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. If one or more of these or other risks or uncertainties materialize (or the consequences of such a development changes), or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual outcomes may vary materially from those reflected in our forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements speak only as of the date hereof, and we disclaim any intention or obligation to update publicly or revise such statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
Non-GAAP Financial Measures
Segment Contribution Margin
Segment contribution margin is a key metric that management uses to evaluate our operating performance and to determine resource allocation between segments. Segment contribution margin excludes selling, general, and administrative costs, corporate costs, plant capacity expenses, and facility closure costs.
The following table sets forth a reconciliation of net income (loss), the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure, to segment contribution margin.
Adjusted EBITDA
Adjusted EBITDA is not a measure of our financial performance or liquidity under GAAP and should not be considered as an alternative to net income (loss) as a measure of operating performance, cash flows from operating activities as a measure of liquidity or any other performance measure derived in accordance with GAAP. Additionally, Adjusted EBITDA is not intended to be a measure of free cash flow for management's discretionary use, as it does not consider certain cash requirements such as interest payments, tax payments and debt service requirements. Adjusted EBITDA contains certain other limitations, including the failure to reflect our cash expenditures, cash requirements for working capital needs and cash costs to replace assets being depreciated and amortized, and excludes certain charges that may recur in the future. Management compensates for these limitations by relying primarily on our GAAP results and by using Adjusted EBITDA only supplementally. Our measure of Adjusted EBITDA is not necessarily comparable to other similarly titled captions of other companies due to potential inconsistencies in the methods of calculation.
The following table sets forth a reconciliation of net income (loss), the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure, to Adjusted EBITDA:
U.S. Silica Holdings, Inc.
Investor Contact
Patricia Gil
Vice President, Investor Relations
(281) 505-6011
gil@ussilica.com
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SOURCE U.S. Silica Holdings, Inc. | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/07/29/us-silica-holdings-inc-announces-second-quarter-2022-results/ | 2022-07-29T11:27:07Z |
Biden names new Secret Service director amid Jan. 6 scrutiny
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden on Wednesday named Kim Cheatle, a veteran Secret Service official, to be the agency’s next director as it faces controversy over missing text messages around the time thousands of supporters of then-President Donald Trump stormed the U.S. Capitol.
Cheatle, who left the Secret Service in 2021 for a job as a security executive at PepsiCo, takes the reins as multiple congressional committees and the Department of Homeland Security’s internal watchdog are investigating the missing text messages, which the Secret Service has said were purged during a technology transition.
Cheatle had served in the Secret Service for 27 years and was the first woman to be named assistant director of protective operations, the division that provides protection to the president and other dignitaries.
Cheatle had served on Biden’s protective detail when he was vice president. During that time, Biden “came to trust” her judgment and counsel, he said in a statement.
Biden said that her and first lady Jill Biden “know firsthand Kim’s commitment to her job and to the Secret Service’s people and mission.”
Cheatle replaces James Murray, who had announced his retirement to take a position with Snap, the social media company best known for its app, Snapchat. He announced last month that he would delay his retirement amid the investigations while Biden looked for a new director.
The Secret Service has faced increasing criticism after admitting that text messages from around the time of the attack of Jan. 6, 2021, on the Capitol were deleted.
The agency has said the messages were purged when its phones were migrated to a new system in the weeks after the 2021 attack. Rep. Stephanie Murphy, D-Fla., a member of the House committee investigating the attack, has said the Secret Service told the committee that it left it up to individual agents to decide what electronic records to keep and what to delete during the process.
The committee has taken a recent, renewed interest in the Secret Service following the dramatic testimony of former White House aide Cassidy Hutchinson about Trump’s actions on the day of the insurrection.
The Secret Service has said all procedures were followed and pledged “full cooperation” with all of the reviews and investigations, including a criminal investigation by the Homeland Security’s inspector general.
Secret Service spokesman Anthony Guglielmi said Cheatle “is a law enforcement veteran and served as the first female assistant director in charge of all protective operations for the agency before retiring.”
“We are ecstatic to welcome her back as the next Director of the United States Secret Service,” he said in a tweet.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | https://www.mysuncoast.com/2022/08/24/biden-names-new-secret-service-director-amid-jan-6-scrutiny/ | 2022-08-24T22:52:38Z |
NEW YORK, May 18, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Gross Law Firm issues the following notice to shareholders of AbbVie Inc..
Shareholders who purchased shares of ABBV 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: April 30, 2021 to August 31, 2021
ALLEGATIONS: The complaint alleges that during the class period, Defendants issued materially false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (1) safety concerns about Pfizer Inc.'s drug Xeljanz extended to Abbvie's drug Rinvoq and to other Janus kinase enzyme inhibitor drugs; (2) as a result, it was likely that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration would require additional safety warnings for Rinvoq and would delay the approval of additional treatment indications for Rinvoq; and (3) therefore, defendants' statements about the Company's business, operations, and prospects lacked a reasonable basis.
DEADLINE: June 6, 2022 Shareholders should not delay in registering for this class action. Register your information here: https://securitiesclasslaw.com/securities/abbvie-inc-loss-submission-form/?id=27340&from=4
NEXT STEPS FOR SHAREHOLDERS: Once you register as a shareholder who purchased shares of ABBV 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 June 6, 2022. There is no cost or obligation to you to participate in this case.
WHY GROSS LAW FIRM? The Gross Law Firm is nationally recognized class action law firm, and our mission is to protect the rights of all investors who have suffered as a result of deceit, fraud, and illegal business practices. The Gross Law Firm is committed to ensuring that companies adhere to responsible business practices and engage in good corporate citizenship. The firm seeks recovery on behalf of investors who incurred losses when false and/or misleading statements or the omission of material information by a company lead to artificial inflation of the company's stock. Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.
CONTACT:
The Gross Law Firm
15 West 38th Street, 12th floor
New York, NY, 10018
Email: dg@securitiesclasslaw.com
Phone: (646) 453-8903
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SOURCE The Gross Law Firm | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/05/18/shareholder-alert-gross-law-firm-notifies-shareholders-abbvie-inc-class-action-lawsuit-lead-plaintiff-deadline-june-6-2022-nyse-abbv/ | 2022-05-18T10:39:57Z |
Notabene's Sunrise plan seamlessly facilitates Travel Rule compliant data exchanges across jurisdictions.
NEW YORK, June 8, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- On a mission to enable safe, secure, and private crypto transactions, industry-leading Notabene announced today the launch of a Sunrise Plan to allow Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) counterparties to respond to Travel Rule data transactions for free. From its inception, Notabene has prioritized a pragmatic approach to Travel Rule compliance and aims to help the 32k+ service providers (Source: VASPnet) worldwide comply with the latest AML requirements.
The "sunrise period" refers to the period during which the Travel Rule is not in full effect across jurisdictions, which causes variation in stages of implementation across VASPs. During sunrise, many companies are not yet prepared to perform the Travel Rule or have the infrastructure to respond to Travel Rule requests, yet a company is not fully compliant if its counterpart does not respond to outbound transfer requests. Notabene has identified this as a significant issue and launched the Sunrise plan to help their customers' counterparties respond to regulated data transfers, and in turn keep them from losing transaction volume. The Sunrise plan is straightforward to use, with no integration required.
"Our customers' success is critical—and they cannot succeed if their counterparties don't have the tools readily available to respond to them. Implementing the Travel Rule comes with novel complexity as it requires ongoing assistance to set up new compliance and operational processes," said Pelle Braendgaard, CEO and Co-Founder of Notabene. "One of our core principles was that if a VASP's counterparty was not ready to be fully compliant, they could at least respond to transactions using our universal protocol switch. This is why we have now launched a free plan for companies to securely and privately respond to Travel Rule data transfers. If they had no solution in place to respond, our customers would not be able to achieve phased compliance by sending the mandated Travel Rule data transfer."
Notabene's Sunrise Plan addresses one of the top issues keeping VASPs from adhering to the mandated regulation. The simple, no-integration solution grants access to Notabene's powerful Travel Rule compliance dashboard, allowing Compliance Officers to set up secure automated compliance workflows while benefiting from Notabene's award-winning integrations with blockchain analytics and sanctions screening providers. Users can perform mandated VASP due diligence, respond to unlimited Travel Rule data transfers, and send free transfers up to $10K per month.
Notabene's Sunrise Plan solution incorporates Notabene's proprietary protocol switch, connecting users to the broadest number of counterparties worldwide. Today, major crypto exchanges and financial institutions worldwide use Notabene's solution to send and receive Travel Rule data transfers across 210+ exchanges. Notabene has achieved a high level of success with a response rate of over 50%. It's easy UX and tiered secure integration allow customers to respond to incoming Travel Rule transactions within 10 minutes securely. Log into Notabene's VASP & Crypto Company Directory and use the rules engine and bulk action functionalities to manage your transfer flow to sign up for the free Sunrise Plan.
Notabene is a reg-tech SaaS solution that turns regulatory compliance into a competitive advantage. Notabene is working to make crypto transactions a part of the everyday economy by providing software, tools, and comprehensive data to manage regulatory and counterparty risks in crypto transactions. Companies leverage our end-to-end FATF Travel Rule solution to identify virtual asset accounts, perform mandated VASP due diligence, and manage global transactions from one dashboard. Trusted by leading exchanges, Luno, Bitso, Crypto.com, and more. Notabene is headquartered in New York with offices in Zug and Santiago de Chile. Download a copy of Notabene's State of Crypto Travel Rule Compliance Report. To learn more, visit http://www.notabene.id. Follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter.
Media Contact:
Liang Zhao
lz@vansary.com
505-720-6933
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SOURCE Notabene | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/06/08/crypto-compliance-solution-provider-notabene-launches-free-sunrise-plan/ | 2022-06-08T12:04:56Z |
CHONGQING, China, Aug. 23, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The 2022 Smart China Expo is held in southwest China's Chongqing from August 22 to 24. Western China (Chongqing) Science City brought 112 exhibits from more than 60 enterprises, displaying 5 chips and many new products developed in the fields of integrated circuits and core components.
On the first day of the event, Western China (Chongqing) Science City signed contracts for key projects such as SAIC Artificial Intelligence Innovation Center and Chongqing Intelligent and Connected Automobile Innovation Center, with a total investment of over 30 billion yuan, involving fields like life and health, software and intelligent and connected automobiles.
In addition to leveraging the platform of the Smart China Expo, the Western China (Chongqing) Science City has continued to increase the introduction of talents, and promote the upgrading of the business environment through cutting red tapes and enriching services to help enterprises grow faster. The science city has rolled out a set of preferential policies to lure inbound inflow of talents, innovation, industry and finance across the world so as to create an innovation-empowered new engine in its development.
In recent years, Western China (Chongqing) Science City has centered on digital industrialization and industrial digitalization. It has rolled out the strategic action plan for innovation-driven development led by big data intelligence and accelerated the transformation of traditional industries into high-end, intelligent and green ones to turn scientific and technological innovation into the booster for industrial transformation and upgrading.
High-tech and emerging sectors are major features of the city's industrial layout, with a focus on building advanced manufacturing industry agglomeration, especially gathering steam on becoming a high ground in intelligent and connected new energy vehicles.
From January to July this year, the output value of digital economy in the core area of Western China (Chongqing) Science City reached 139.7 billion yuan, a year-on-year expansion of 12 percent. The number of high-tech enterprises climbed by 103, with a growth rate of 75 percent. The number of scientific research institutions rose by 48, and 78 enterprises carried out 138 intelligent transformations, and 8 intelligent factories and 20 digital workshops were built. The science city's automobile industry maintained rapid growth, with its output value increasing by 64.7 percent over one year ago.
According to the plan, the science city will basically form a coordinated development pattern of intelligent and connected new energy vehicle, intelligent transportation, intelligent facilities and smart city. A whole industry ecosystem featuring automobiles, roads, cloud computing, networks and maps will be in place initially. The intelligent and connected new energy automobile industry will be one of the top performers in China. Meanwhile, a demonstration base of intelligent and connected new energy vehicle industry high-quality development in western China will be built in the science city.
Image Attachments Links:
Link: http://asianetnews.net/view-attachment?attach-id=427907
Caption: As the new model of Chongqing's laboratories and the new force of national laboratories created by Western China (Chongqing) Science City, Jinfeng Laboratory has completed the expert review by the first batch of scientific research teams.
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SOURCE Western China (Chongqing) Science City | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/08/23/empowered-by-digital-economy-western-china-chongqing-science-city-gains-fresh-growth-steam-industrial-development/ | 2022-08-23T15:10:35Z |
DENVER, July 26, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Altvia is pleased to announce that Marlin Equity Partners ("Marlin") has completed a significant majority growth investment in Altvia, a market leader in software solutions for the alternative asset space. Altvia's comprehensive platform, comprising a verticalized CRM built on Force.com, investor engagement offerings, and analytics engine, helps hundreds of asset managers more effectively raise and deploy capital, optimize workflows, collaborate cross-functionally, and analyze performance across their investments.
The transaction enables Altvia to further expand its leadership position within the software ecosystem for alternative asset managers by accelerating product innovation and supporting the go-to-market function.
"We are incredibly proud of the market-leading products and loyal customer base that we have built at Altvia," said Brie Aletto, CEO of Altvia. "Marlin shares our strategic vision of equipping private capital market participants with purpose-built systems to drive world-class partnerships between Limited Partners and General Partners. We are thrilled to partner with Marlin as we enter the next phase of growth."
"Participants in the private capital markets are rapidly adopting new technologies to drive improvements and efficiencies as they navigate increasing demands from regulatory bodies, ESG impacts, and expanding partnerships with Limited Partners," said Nick Lukens, a managing director at Marlin. "We look forward to providing our operational expertise and financial support to further advance Altvia's position in the market, accelerate technological innovation, and enhance its existing product capabilities for its current and future customer base."
Altvia is a market-leading provider for investor and deal management systems specifically built for private capital market firms. Founded in 2006, Altvia has hundreds of clients and supports over 40,000 Limited Partner investors. The company's mobile-optimized platform (AIM, ShareSecure, Correspond and Answers) is transforming the way General Partners deliver continuous value, real-time decision support and secure communications to their valued constituents. Marquee firms across multiple verticals trust Altvia to optimize operational functions and enable critically important communications. For more information, please visit www.altvia.com.
Marlin Equity Partners is a global investment firm with over $8.1 billion of capital under management. The firm is focused on providing corporate parents, shareholders and other stakeholders with tailored solutions that meet their business and liquidity needs. Marlin invests in businesses across multiple industries where its capital base, industry relationships and extensive network of operational resources significantly strengthen a company's outlook and enhance value. Since its inception, Marlin, through its group of funds and related companies, has successfully completed over 200 acquisitions. The firm is headquartered in Los Angeles, California, with an additional office in London. For more information, please visit www.marlinequity.com.
CONTACT: Brie Aletto, brie@altvia.com
SOURCE Altvia Solutions, LLC
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SOURCE Altvia Solutions, LLC | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/07/26/marlin-completes-significant-majority-growth-investment-altvia/ | 2022-07-26T16:51:18Z |
SAN JOSE, Calif., July 19, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Harmonic Inc. (NASDAQ: HLIT) today announced that it will release its second quarter 2022 financial results after the market close on Monday, August 1, 2022. Harmonic will host a live webcast to discuss the company's results at 2:00 p.m. PT on the same day.
To participate via telephone, please register in advance using this link, https://register.vevent.com/register/BIa55199c150564ee4b8118917be1e93c9.
Upon registration, telephone participants will receive a confirmation email detailing how to join the audio version of the webcast, including the dial-in number and a unique registrant ID. The live webcast will be available via Harmonic's Investor Relations website at investor.harmonicinc.com. The company suggests participants for both the conference call and those listening via the web dial in or sign on at least 15 minutes in advance of the call.
For those unable to participate in the live event, a replay will be available on the same website after 5:00 p.m. PT.
Further information about Harmonic and the company's solutions is available at www.harmonicinc.com.
About Harmonic
Harmonic (NASDAQ: HLIT), the worldwide leader in virtualized cable access and video delivery solutions, enables media companies and service providers to deliver ultra-high-quality video streaming and broadcast services to consumers globally. The company revolutionized cable access networking via the industry's first virtualized cable access solution, enabling cable operators to more flexibly deploy gigabit internet service to consumers' homes and mobile devices. Whether simplifying OTT video delivery via innovative cloud and software platforms, or powering the delivery of gigabit internet cable services, Harmonic is changing the way media companies and service providers monetize live and on-demand content on every screen. More information is available at www.harmonicinc.com.
Harmonic, the Harmonic logo and other Harmonic marks are owned by Harmonic Inc. or its affiliates. All other trademarks referenced herein are the property of their respective owners.
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SOURCE Harmonic Inc. | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/07/19/harmonic-announces-reporting-date-second-quarter-2022-results/ | 2022-07-19T21:08:48Z |
Ride-along with Florida Forest Service provides inside look at wildfire aftermath in Port Charlotte
PORT CHARLOTTE, Fla. (WWSB) - On a ride-along with Patrick Mahoney with Florida Forest Service, the damage to the trees and brush at Myakka State Forest in Port Charlotte is very visible. The wildfire that ignited on Saturday around the Gulf Cove development is 98% contained.
“Our No. 1 job is safety and protecting of life and property,” said Mahoney.
The quick work of fire crews keeping this wildfire to around 160 acres. Crews say it could have very easily damaged a thousand acres and destroyed homes. Fortunately the homes were saved.
“The biggest thing that helped us with this fire is in our management plans, we do a lot of prescribed burning out here, and some of this area was burned off about two years ago,” said Mahoney.
There are still some smoky hot spots and that’s the reason this wildfire isn’t 100% contained. ABC7 is being told those hot spots don’t pose any danger. Mahoney says whether a fire is 1 acre or 1,000 acres, there are many factors in tackling a wildfire successfully.
“A lot of times when we’re fighting fires, we have to take into consideration one the weather, two the terrain and three the situation,” said Mahoney. “And all that dictates exactly how we’re going to fight the fire.”
Between rain in the near future and the work from specialists, experts say this forest could be almost good as new within the next several months.
“After a fire like this, we come in repair the lines and try to return nature back to as close to as original it was,” said Mahoney.
There have already been around 80 wildfires within the Myakka Fire District region this year. With this extremely dry weather, Florida Forest Service is anticipating a very busy few months ahead, but they say crews are trained and ready.
“For us, we take this very seriously and there’s nothing like leaving a fire knowing that you did your job,” said Mahoney.
The cause of this wildfire remains under investigation.
Copyright 2022 WWSB. All rights reserved. | https://www.mysuncoast.com/2022/04/27/ride-along-with-florida-forest-service-provides-inside-look-wildfire-aftermath-port-charlotte/ | 2022-04-29T23:15:10Z |
RADNOR, Pa., June 2, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The law firm of Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP (www.ktmc.com) informs investors that the firm has filed a securities class action lawsuit against AbbVie, Inc. (AbbVie) (NYSE: ABBV) on behalf of all persons and entities who purchased or otherwise acquired AbbVie securities between April 30, 2021, and August 31, 2021, inclusive (the "Class Period").
CLICK HERE TO SUBMIT YOUR ABBVIE LOSSES. YOU CAN ALSO CLICK ON THE FOLLOWING LINK OR COPY AND PASTE IN YOUR BROWSER: https://www.ktmc.com/new-cases/abbvie-inc?utm_source=PR&utm_medium=link&utm_campaign=abbvie&mktm=r
TO VIEW OUR VIDEO, PLEASE CLICK HERE
TO VIEW OUR COMPLAINT, PLEASE CLICK HERE
LEAD PLAINTIFF DEADLINE: JUNE 6, 2022
CLASS PERIOD: APRIL 30, 2021 through AUGUST 31, 2021
CONTACT AN ATTORNEY TO DISCUSS YOUR RIGHTS:
James Maro, Esq. (484) 270-1453 or Email at info@ktmc.com
Kessler Topaz is one of the world's foremost advocates in protecting the public against corporate fraud and other wrongdoing. Our securities fraud litigators are regularly recognized as leaders in the field individually and our firm is both feared and respected among the defense bar and the insurance bar. We are proud to have recovered billions of dollars for our clients and the classes of shareholders we represent.
ABBVIE'S ALLEGED MISCONDUCT
AbbVie is one of the world's largest pharmaceutical companies. The company's revenues will come under significant pressure in the coming years when its best-selling drug, Humira, will lose patent protection in 2023. Accordingly, AbbVie's future revenue and earnings depend in large part on its ability to develop new sources of revenue to offset Humira's lost sales. Rinvoq—an anti-inflammatory drug manufactured by AbbVie and used to treat rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and other diseases by inhibiting Janus kinase (JAK) enzymes—was touted as one such drug. Rinvoq was initially approved in the United States to treat only moderate to severe RA. However, AbbVie was actively pursuing additional treatment indications and, in 2020, asked the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to approve Rinvoq for the treatment of several other diseases.
As is relevant here, Rinvoq is similar to other JAK inhibitor drugs, including Xeljanz, manufactured by Pfizer Inc. When the FDA approved Xeljanz in 2012 for the treatment of RA, it required an additional safety trial to evaluate Xeljanz's risk of triggering certain serious side effects. Beginning in February 2019, the FDA repeatedly warned the public that the safety trial indicated that Xeljanz's use could lead to serious heart-related issue, cancer, and other adverse events. Notwithstanding the similarities between Rinvoq and Xeljanz, during the Class Period, Defendants assured investors that Rinvoq was far safer than Xeljanz and not subject to the same regulatory risks.
However, investors began to learn the truth about Rinvoq's significant risks on June 25, 2021, when AbbVie revealed that the FDA was delaying its review of expanded treatment applications for Rinvoq due to the safety concerns associated with Xeljanz. On this news, the price of AbbVie common stock declined $1.76 per share, or approximately 1.5%, from a close of $114.74 per share on June 24, 2021, to close at $112.98 per share on June 25, 2021.
Then, on September 1, 2021, the FDA announced that final results from the Xeljanz safety trial established an increased risk of serious adverse events, even with low doses of Xeljanz. As a result, the FDA determined that it would require new and updated warnings for Xeljanz and Rinvoq because Rinvoq "share[s] similar mechanisms of action with Xeljanz" and "may have similar risks as seen in the Xeljanz safety trial." The FDA also indicated that it would further limit approved indications for Rinvoq as a result of these safety concerns. On this news, the price of AbbVie common stock declined $8.51 per share, or more than 7%, from a close of $120.78 per share on August 31, 2021, to close at $112.27 per share on September 1, 2021.
After the Class Period, on December 3, 2021, AbbVie announced that the FDA had updated Rinvoq's label to require additional safety warnings and limit marketing of Rinvoq to only its use after treatment with other drugs has failed. On January 11, 2022, Defendants admitted that these changes to Rinvoq's label would negatively impact sales, forcing the Company to reduce its long-term guidance for Rinvoq's sales in 2025.
The complaint alleges that, throughout the Class Period, the Defendants made materially false and/or misleading statements, about the company's business and operations. Specifically, Defendants misrepresented and/or failed to disclose that: (1) safety concerns about Xeljanz extended to Rinvoq and other JAK inhibitors; (2) as a result, it was likely that the FDA would require additional safety warnings for Rinvoq and would delay the approval of additional treatment indications for Rinvoq; and (3) therefore, Defendants' statements about the company's business, operations, and prospects lacked a reasonable basis, As a result of the Defendants' wrongful acts and omissions, and the significant decline in the market value of AbbVie's securities, AbbVie investors have suffered significant damages.
WHAT CAN I DO?
AbbVie investors may, no later than June 6, 2022, seek to be appointed as a lead plaintiff representative of the class through Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP or other counsel, or may choose to do nothing and remain an absent class member. Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP encourages AbbVie investors who have suffered significant losses to contact the firm directly to acquire more information.
CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR THE CASE
WHO CAN BE A LEAD PLAINTIFF?
A lead plaintiff is a representative party who acts on behalf of all class members in directing the litigation. The lead plaintiff is usually the investor or small group of investors who have the largest financial interest and who are also adequate and typical of the proposed class of investors. The lead plaintiff selects counsel to represent the lead plaintiff and the class and these attorneys, if approved by the court, are lead or class counsel. Your ability to share in any recovery is not affected by the decision of whether or not to serve as a lead plaintiff.
ABOUT KESSLER TOPAZ MELTZER & CHECK, LLP
Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP prosecutes class actions in state and federal courts throughout the country and around the world. The firm has developed a global reputation for excellence and has recovered billions of dollars for victims of fraud and other corporate misconduct. All of our work is driven by a common goal: to protect investors, consumers, employees and others from fraud, abuse, misconduct and negligence by businesses and fiduciaries. For more information about Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP please visit www.ktmc.com.
CONTACT:
Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP
James Maro, Jr., Esq.
280 King of Prussia Road
Radnor, PA 19087
(484) 270-1453
info@ktmc.com
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SOURCE Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/06/02/abbv-shareholder-reminder-kessler-topaz-meltzer-amp-check-llp-reminds-shareholders-abbvie-inc-deadline-securities-fraud-class-action-lawsuit/ | 2022-06-02T18:58:53Z |
BOSTON, Aug. 29, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- – Burns & Levinson is pleased to announce that it represented iVeena Delivery Systems, Inc. (iVeena), a clinical stage biopharmaceutical company with developmental products in keratoconus and pediatric myopia, in a strategic licensing agreement with Glaukos Corporation (NYSE: GKOS). On August 24, iVeena announced that it has licensed its lead asset, IVMED-80, an Orphan Drug Designated eye drop for keratoconus to Glaukos. The agreement grants Glaukos an exclusive global license to develop and commercialize IVMED-80. As part of the agreement, Glaukos paid $10 million upfront and will assume all costs associated with the development and regulatory activities on IVMED-80. In addition, deal terms include the potential for both development and sales milestone payments as well as royalties on sales to iVeena.
The Burns & Levinson intellectual property team was led by Partner Bruce Jobse, who provided advice and counsel during the drafting and negotiations of the license agreement with Glaukos.
iVeena Delivery Systems, Inc. is a privately held, clinical stage ophthalmology company developing disease-modifying pharmacologic innovations for refractive diseases. iVeena is also developing IVMED-85, a first in class, investigational eyedrop formulation for pediatric myopia where it plans to initiate a first in human clinical trial early 2023.
At Burns & Levinson, we provide high-level, client-centric and results-oriented legal services to our regional, national and international clients. We are a full-service law firm with 125 lawyers in Boston, Providence and London. Our areas of expertise include: business/finance, business litigation, divorce/family law, venture capital/emerging companies, employment, estate planning, government investigations, intellectual property, M&A/private equity, probate/trust litigation, and real estate. We partner with our clients to solve their business and personal legal issues in a collaborative, creative and cost-effective way. For more information, visit Burns & Levinson at www.burnslev.com.
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SOURCE Burns & Levinson | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/08/29/burns-amp-levinson-represents-iveena-delivery-systems-inc-strategic-licensing-agreement-with-glaukos-corporation/ | 2022-08-29T21:59:30Z |
NEW YORK, Aug. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Gross Law Firm issues the following notice to shareholders of Outset Medical, Inc..
Shareholders who purchased shares of OM 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 or entities who purchased Outset Medical common stock between September 15, 2020, and June 13, 2022.
ALLEGATIONS: The complaint alleges that during the class period, Defendants issued materially false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (1) the Company's flagship product, Tablo Hemodialysis System ("Tablo"), would require an additional 510(k) application to be filed with The United States Food and Drug Administration ("FDA"), as defendants had "continuously made improvements and updates to Tablo over time since its original clearance"; (2) as a result, the Company could not conduct a human factors study on a cleared device in accordance with FDA protocols; (3) the Company's inability to conduct the human factors study subjected the Company to the likelihood of the FDA imposing a "shipment hold" and marketing suspension, leaving the Company unable to sell Tablo for home use; and (4) as a result, defendants' positive statements about the Company's business, operations, and prospects were materially false and misleading and /or lacked a reasonable basis at all relevant times.
DEADLINE: September 6, 2022 Shareholders should not delay in registering for this class action. Register your information here: https://securitiesclasslaw.com/securities/outset-medical-inc-loss-submission-form/?id=30483&from=4
NEXT STEPS FOR SHAREHOLDERS: Once you register as a shareholder who purchased shares of OM 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 September 6, 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.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/08/03/shareholder-alert-gross-law-firm-notifies-shareholders-outset-medical-inc-class-action-lawsuit-lead-plaintiff-deadline-september-6-2022-nasdaq-om/ | 2022-08-03T11:43:40Z |
DETROIT (AP) — The historic section of Detroit where Motown Records founder Berry Gordy Jr. built his music empire six decades ago is now looking better than ever.
Motown legend — and Gordy’s best friend — Smokey Robinson was among those who visited the newly improved Motown Museum site on Monday night for an event celebrating the completion of the first two phases of the museum’s expansion.
Robinson was joined by Otis Williams, Martha Reeves and other Motown luminaries in celebrating the grand opening of Hitsville NEXT, an educational programming and creative hub, and the newly established Rocket Plaza.
“Kids who aren’t even born yet will be aware of Motown,” Robinson told The Associated Press during an interview ahead of the event held near the entrance to the museum. “Some of their parents weren’t even born when we started this. But it’s a wonderful thing.”
The festivities included comments from Robinson and Williams, an original founding member of The Temptations who gifted microphones to the museum from his personal collection.
And they concluded with a performance of the Temptations classic, “My Girl,” performed by the cast of the musical “Ain’t Too Proud,” and introduced by Marcus Paul James, who portrays Williams in the show.
“I am very happy to be part of something — this here, Motown — (that will) outlast us all,” Williams said.
The museum will continue to be housed in the famed “Hitsville, U.S.A” building at 2648 West Grand Boulevard.
But three nearby Motown-era buildings have been transformed into Hitsville NEXT, which will be home to camps, workshops, master classes and community events. It represents the first phase of the museum’s expansion.
Phase two is Rocket Plaza, an outdoor plaza that will serve as a community gathering place and a welcome destination for museum visitors.
“This plaza is the new front porch to Motown,” said Robin Terry, Motown Museum chairwoman and CEO.
Gordy launched Motown in 1959. His late sister, Esther Gordy Edwards, founded the museum in the former Hitsville headquarters in 1985. In addition to Robinson and The Temptations, Stevie Wonder, The Supremes, Marvin Gaye and many others recorded hits there before Motown moved to California in 1972.
The museum is inviting the community to its Founder’s Day celebration on Saturday in honor of Gordy Edwards, the reopening and the completed expansion phases.
And the museum on Sunday will welcome back visitors for tours of Hitsville, U.S.A. following pandemic- and construction-related closures. | https://cw33.com/entertainment-news/ap-entertainment/motown-stars-celebrate-completion-of-museum-expansion-phases/ | 2022-08-09T10:25:40Z |
Russian natural gas deliveries through a key pipeline to Europe will drop by around 40% this year, state-controlled energy giant Gazprom said Tuesday, after Canadian sanctions over the war in Ukraine prevented German partner Siemens Energy from delivering overhauled equipment.
Germany’s utility network agency said it did not see gas supplies as endangered and that reduced flows through the Nord Stream 1 pipeline under the Baltic Sea aligned with commercial behavior and Russia’s previously announced cutoff of gas to Denmark and the Netherlands, the German news agency dpa reported. The Federal Network Agency said it was monitoring the situation.
Spot gas prices rose in Europe, a sign of jitters over possible further effects of the war on supplies of Russian gas, which powers industry and generates electricity on the continent.
The European Union has outlined plans to reduce dependence on Russian gas by two-thirds by year’s end. Economists say a complete cutoff would deal a severe blow to the economy, consumers and gas-intensive industries.
High energy prices are already contributing to record inflation of 8.1% in the 19 countries that use the euro.
Gas demand has fallen after the end of the winter heating season, but European utilities are racing to refill storage ahead of next winter with prices high and supplies uncertain.
“Gas supplies to the Nord Stream gas pipeline can currently be provided in the amount of up to 100 million cubic meters per day (compared to) the planned volume of 167 million cubic meters per day,” Gazprom said in a statement.
It did not provide a timeline for the planned drop in gas flows.
Siemens Energy said a gas turbine that powers a compressor station on the pipeline had been in service for more than 10 years and had been taken to Montreal for a scheduled overhaul. But because of sanctions imposed by Canada, the company has been unable to return the equipment to the customer, Gazprom.
“Against this background we informed the Canadian and German government and are working on a sustainable solution,” Siemens Energy said in a statement.
Also Tuesday, the German government said it is making an emergency loan to a former subsidiary of Gazprom to prevent it from bankruptcy and safeguard the nation’s gas supply.
Germany put a government agency in charge of Gazprom Germania in April, saying the move was temporary to bring “order to the conditions” at the company after the Kremlin-controlled parent company cut ties with its subsidiary.
Gazprom Germania, which plays a central role in the trade, transport and storage of natural gas in Germany and neighboring countries, was subsequently slapped with sanctions by Russia in a tit-for-tat move for Western sanctions over Ukraine.
Dpa quoted unnamed government officials saying the loan would be between 9 and 10 billion euros ($9.4 billion to $10.4 billion).
The government said the loan would “avert a bankruptcy and prevent a cascade effect on the market.”
“The money will serve to shore up liquidity and procure replacement gas,” it said in a statement.
The government added that Gazprom Germany also would be renamed Securing Energy for Europe GmbH, or SEFE, as a “clear signal to the market that the goal of the measures taken is to ensure the energy supply in Germany and Europe.” | https://cw33.com/business/ap-business/russia-lowers-gas-flows-to-europe-with-part-stuck-in-canada/ | 2022-06-15T01:02:35Z |
Smart management on both the Zepp App and adidas Running facilitates efficient and streamlined wellness tracking
BERLIN, Sept. 2, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Amazfit, a leading global smart wearables brand of Zepp Health (NYSE: ZEPP), has teamed up with the award-winning digital health partner adidas Runtastic to provide unrivaled motivation for the diverse international athletic community, through industry-leading workout tracking and sharing.
As a brand committed to providing products and resources to promote healthier and happier living, Amazfit's proprietary multi-generation BioTracker™ PPG biometric tracking optical sensor technology allows users to accurately monitor a comprehensive range of health and fitness metrics, before generating a detailed activity report in the Zepp App, the brand's mobile app. Friendly to Android and iOS users, the Zepp App facilitates smart management of Amazfit devices - and when combined with the powerful motion and workout status algorithms on those devices, it makes the Amazfit fitness tracking experience one of the most all-inclusive available to global users across 90+ countries.
adidas Runtastic is a well-established digital platform that empowers its 182 million athletes to reach their fitness goals with adaptive guidance and motivation. Its integrated Partner API system enables safe and scalable data transmission, while allowing members to sync select activity data from their smart wearables to the adidas Running app, for efficient data tracking and comprehensive activity reports.
Data dimensions that can be synchronized include: distance, duration, heart rate, speed, start/end time, and so on - enabling users to instantly check their physical status on their Amazfit smart wearable, while also sharing their activity to a global online community. After each workout, users will also receive a customized sports report on the adidas Running app to assist with targeted and effective training improvements in the future.
Speaking on this partnership, Amazfit's Vice President, Bin Fan, said, "We are excited to have entered into this partnership with adidas Runtastic. As two global brands with a shared passion for creating products that help users advance their fitness journeys, we hope this partnership will further support Amazfit's continued growth and expansion into the larger global sports community."
Stuart Wells, VP Marketing at adidas Runtastic, also commented: "adidas Runtastic are stoked to collaborate with brands that recognize the importance of maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle. With Amazfit as a new health partner, we'll continue to change lives through supporting athletes of all shapes and sizes in achieving their fitness goals."
The official partnership kicks off in Q4, 2022. All features will be available with the brand-new Amazfit GTR 4 and GTS 4 to begin with, with compatibility for other Amazfit health and fitness smartwatches to be added. For more information, visit the official websites of Amazfit and Runtastic.
END
About Amazfit
Amazfit, a leading global smart wearables brand focused on health and fitness, is part of Zepp Health (NYSE: ZEPP), a health technology company. Offering a wide selection of smart watches and bands, Amazfit's brand essence is "Up Your Game", encouraging users to live their passions and express their active spirits freely. Amazfit is powered by Zepp Health's proprietary health management platform that delivers cloud-based 24/7 actionable insights and guidance to help users attain their wellness goals.
Launched in 2015, Amazfit is today embraced by millions of users. Its products are available in more than 90 countries across the Americas, and EMEA and APAC regions. For more information about Amazfit, visit https://www.amazfit.com/de/
About adidas Runtastic
Through sport, we have the power to change lives. adidas Runtastic, founded in 2009, has been a proud member of the adidas family since 2015. Through the adidas Running and adidas Training apps, Runtastic empowers athletes to reach their fitness goals with adaptive guidance and motivation. adidas Runtastic creates a best-in-class running and training experience for its more than 185 million member registrations by inspiring and enabling connected athletes to achieve their goals at every stage in their fitness journey.
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SOURCE Amazfit | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/09/02/announced-ifa-2022-amazfit-will-support-syncing-workout-data-adidas-running-app-via-zepp-app/ | 2022-09-02T06:49:45Z |
SWITCH/MTN is designed for active adventurers who want a fast, fun and versatile way to explore the backcountry and enjoy every ride.
MILWAUKEE, June 17, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Today Serial 1 launched SWITCH/MTN, a hardtail eMTB that is ready for any off-road adventure. All new from the ground up and designed with the same engineering rigor and extreme attention to detail that Serial 1 is known for, the SWITCH/MTN is designed for active adventurers who want a fast, fun and versatile way to explore the backcountry. Extremely off-road capable, SWITCH/MTN has the performance to satisfy an expert rider, but careful attention to fit and fine details ensure that our latest eMTB is just as accessible and accommodating for riders who are just beginning their off-road adventure too.
"The vast majority of our world is unpaved," said Aaron Frank, Brand Director at Serial 1. "Fire roads, Jeep trails, singletrack paths, terrain parks, ski hills, state forests—there are so many great destinations to explore on two wheels and SWITCH/MTN, with its powerful motor, large-capacity battery, fully adjustable front suspension, and wide-ratio 1x12 drivetrain, has the all the performance and capability to take you anywhere you want to go."
Built around the same basic architecture as Serial 1's acclaimed /CTY bikes and using the same mid-mounted Brose S Mag motor and proprietary, super-compact battery system to optimize mass centralization and ensure optimal handling, the SWITCH/MTN is elevated with off-road specific geometry and a host of trail-worthy technology to create an exceptionally competent off-road machine. SR Suntour's premier ZERON35 BOOST AIR fully adjustable suspension fork absorbs big hits and small stutters with equal ability, while grippy, high-volume Michelin E-Wild knobby tires deliver excellent traction and a TranzX dropper seat post lets the SWITCH/MTN rider incrementally adjust the riding position instantly for equal measures of comfort and confidence in all riding conditions.
Drivetrain components come from SRAM's SX Eagle line-up, including a 1x12 gearing combination controlled with eBike-specific single-click trigger shifters to provide the perfect gearing for any terrain, on-demand. Braking is equally up-spec, with TRP Slate T4 hydraulic disc brakes likewise built specifically for eMTB use. Powerful, four-piston calipers clamp down on oversized rotors that measure 203mm in diameter and 2.3mm in thickness for fade-free performance even on very long and very fast descents.
All this trail-ready technology is great, but what really sets SWITCH/MTN apart in the eMTB space is value-added comfort and convenience features that are unexpected in the category. Fully integrated LED lighting—including our proprietary BAF (Bright As F***) headlamp and high-viz RAT (Rearward Awareness Technology) combination tail and brake lights—elevate both safety and functionality. Plus, like all 2022 Serial 1 eBikes, the SWITCH/MTN offers cloud-enabled connectivity via the Serial 1 App, developed in partnership with Google Cloud, to capture essential ride data, improve security and safety, and make it easier than ever before to enjoy every trail.
For downloadable images of the SWITCH/MTN, please visit https://serial1.com/press-kit/.
Serial 1 offers premium eBicycles that are guided by intelligent, human-centered design and crafted using the most advanced bicycle technology available, to create the easiest and most intuitive way to experience the fun, freedom, and instant adventure of riding a pedal-assist electric bicycle. Find out more by visiting www.serial1.com.
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SOURCE Serial 1 | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/06/17/serial-1-powered-by-harley-davidson-launches-switchmtn-its-latest-entry-electric-mountain-bike-category/ | 2022-06-17T15:28:21Z |
- TK Elevator's Innovation and Qualification Center has been using 100% renewable electricity since opening in February 2022
- As part of its global commitment to use 100% renewable energy by 2030, TK Elevator recently joined the global renewable electricity initiative, RE100
ATLANTA, Aug. 25, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- TK Elevator has achieved 100% renewable electricity through a green tariff at its Innovation and Qualification Center (IQC) in Atlanta since opening the highly sustainable building at the start of 2022. The energy supplier for the IQC is Cobb EMC (Electric Membership Corporation), which serves approximately 200,000 homes and businesses in the metro Atlanta area.
This milestone aligns with TK Elevator's goal to achieve 100% renewable electricity across its global operations by 2030. As proof of this commitment, TK Elevator recently joined RE100, the global renewable electricity initiative built around a commitment to sourcing 100% renewable electricity. TK Elevator is one of more than 350 leading companies to join RE100. RE100 is led by the Climate Group in partnership with CDP, which has bestowed TK Elevator with its prestigious 'A' ranking for climate transparency and action every year since TK Elevator became an independent company.
"We are committing countless resources towards making the world safer and healthier, including purchasing renewable electricity. How we source energy is a priority for our company as we work to achieve our ambitious carbon targets," said Kevin Lavallee, CEO Business Unit North America and Group COO Field.
Monica Miller Brown, Senior Sustainability Manager Business Unit North America, added: "We are pleased to partner with Cobb EMC for our renewable energy needs, which has not only helped us in our pursuit to achieve our tough energy goals but with our LEED Gold certification for this landmark building as well."
Earlier this year, the IQC earned LEED Gold certification, becoming one of the only buildings featuring an elevator test tower worldwide to achieve this green building recognition. It is the second TK Elevator building in North America to receive LEED Gold certification. The first was TK Elevator's manufacturing facility in Middleton, Tennessee, which has achieved 50% renewable electricity to date through sourcing renewable energy credits each year.
To learn more about TK Elevator's partnership with Cobb EMC, click here.
PRESS IMAGES
Available here (credit: TK Elevator)
PRESS CONTACT
Dennis Van Milligen
Manager, Public Relations
TK Elevator North America
P +1 312 525 3190
dennis.vanmilligen@tkelevator.com
www.tkelevator.com/us-en/
TK Elevator
With customers in over 100 countries served by more than 50,000 employees, TK Elevator achieved sales of around €8 billion in the fiscal year 2020/2021. Over 1,000 locations around the world provide an extensive network that guarantees closeness to customers. Over the past decades, TK Elevator has established itself as one of the world's leading elevator companies and became independent since its separation from thyssenkrupp AG in August 2020. The company's most important business line is the service business represented by over 24,000 service technicians. The product portfolio covers commodity elevators for residential and commercial buildings to cutting-edge, highly customized solutions for state-of-the-art skyscrapers. In addition, it also consists of escalators and moving walks, passenger boarding bridges, stair and platform lifts. Integrated cloud-based service solutions, such as the MAX platform, are gaining in importance. With these digital offerings, there are no limits to urban mobility anymore. TKE – move beyond.
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SOURCE TK Elevator | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/08/25/tk-elevator-procures-100-renewable-electricity-innovation-qualification-center-atlanta/ | 2022-08-25T14:35:43Z |
5 things to know for April 11: Ukraine, Covid, French elections, Shootings, Masters
By Alexandra Meeks, CNN
White House officials are getting anxious about a massive migrant surge that will likely occur at the US-Mexico border next month. On May 23, the Biden administration is set to lift a Trump-era border policy that cited pandemic concerns to justify denying people entry to US. President Joe Biden and the CDC have determined the restriction is no longer necessary — but once it’s repealed, up to 60,000 people could seek entry within hours, a federal law enforcement official said.
Here’s what you need to know to Get Up to Speed and On with Your Day.
(You can get “5 Things You Need to Know Today” delivered to your inbox daily. Sign up here.)
1. Ukraine
Russian troops are amassing forces in eastern Ukraine as Western and Ukrainian officials warn a major assault on the region is imminent. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said his country is “ready” for an offensive, but urged civilians to evacuate the region. Many people, however, are getting trapped in areas of fighting where access to some towns is being blocked by Russian forces. This comes as nine evacuation corridors were agreed on Sunday, following a deadly Russian missile strike last week that hit a train station packed with evacuees. Meanwhile in Russia, President Vladimir Putin is maintaining his heavy-handed approach and recently appointed a new general to direct the war in Ukraine after his troops failed to take the city of Kyiv, according to US and European officials.
2. Coronavirus
In addition to vaccines, boosters, handwashing and masks, some of the most powerful tools against Covid-19 are ventilation and filtration, experts say. Filtration — just like it sounds — is filtering or cleaning the air by removing the infected particles. But think of ventilation as “diluting” the air — or bringing in more fresh air in to reduce the concentration of those particles. Opening doors or windows at opposite ends of your home will create cross-ventilation, the Environmental Protection Agency advises. Opening the highest and lowest windows, especially if on different floors of a home, can also increase ventilation. Separately, several members of President Biden’s cabinet and various lawmakers are among at least 67 people known to have contracted Covid-19 after attending the Gridiron Club dinner in Washington, DC. New York City Mayor Eric Adams tested positive for Covid-19 yesterday after attending the dinner, but it is unclear exactly where he contracted the virus.
3. French elections
Emmanuel Macron and Marine Le Pen are projected to advance to the second round of the French presidential election, an analysis of early results showed, setting up a rematch of the 2017 contest. Macron, France’s current president, is in first place with 28.6% following a preliminary count of the votes from the first round of the election yesterday. Le Pen, a long-time standard-bearer for the French far-right, is on track to come in second with 23.6%. Twelve candidates ran for the top job. Since none of them received more than 50% of the ballots in the first round, the top two candidates will face each other in a runoff on April 24. Macron is seeking to become the first French president to win reelection since Jacques Chirac in 2002, but Le Pen’s support has steadily risen in recent weeks.
4. Shootings
Gun violence plagued the US again this weekend following several deadly shootings that took place across the country. Four people, including two teens, were shot shortly after an MLB game in Washington, DC, on Saturday night, police said. In Illinois, six people were found injured after a shooting occurred in a residential neighborhood. Police are also investigating a shooting at a birthday party in Indianapolis where six people were shot and one person was killed. Two people were also killed and 10 hospitalized after a “targeted attack” at a Cedar Rapids nightclub, police say. This comes as President Biden is expected to announce a new firearm regulation as soon as today meant to contain the use of privately made weapons known as “ghost guns” that are unregulated and untraceable.
5. The Masters
Scottie Scheffler won the 2022 Masters golf tournament yesterday following a dominant performance at Augusta National. This is his first major title after finishing ahead of Northern Irishman Rory McIlroy. Over the four days at the sprawling golf club in Augusta, Georgia, the 25-year-old produced some excellent golf, refusing to falter under the pressure of being the tournament’s leader for nearly three days. Tiger Woods also notably made a comeback at the Masters. Although it didn’t end with a big win, many say Woods displayed incredible grit and determination. His injuries and lack of match fitness seemed to catch up with him though after he carded a six-over par 78 on Saturday, his worst score in a Masters round, and finished with the same score yesterday.
BREAKFAST BROWSE
Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck are engaged again
Bennifer: a true love story! The couple found their way back to one another after almost two decades, and we couldn’t be more overjoyed.
Traveler told TSA he had ‘no idea’ a sword was hidden in his cane
A clever design nonetheless… but definitely not making it through security.
The search for the 2022 Gerber Baby is on
Do you have an irresistibly cute baby? Enter the competition to see if your little one has what takes to become Gerber’s next “Chief Growing Officer.”
Adorable baby pademelon born at Chester Zoo
What’s a pademelon, you ask? Picture a kangaroo, but mini!
‘Sonic the Hedgehog 2’ has best opening ever for a video game movie
The movie sped past box office predictions, bringing in an estimated $71 million domestically during its opening weekend.
TODAY’S NUMBER
75.7 million
That’s how many passengers Georgia’s Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport saw in 2021, reclaiming its title of world’s busiest airport. The Atlanta airport was knocked from its No. 1 spot in 2020 by Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport in China. The 2021 rankings released today by Airports Council International show the Atlanta airport is back on top, a sign of recovery from the plunge in air traffic when the pandemic took hold two years ago.
TODAY’S QUOTE
“Elon is our biggest shareholder and we will remain open to his input.”
— Twitter CEO Parag Agrawal, on Elon Musk’s decision to not join the social media company’s board. Musk recently disclosed he had purchased a more than 9% stake in Twitter, making him the company’s largest shareholder. When the news of his board appointment broke, Musk tweeted he was “looking forward to working with Parag & Twitter board to make significant improvements to Twitter in coming months.”
TODAY’S WEATHER
Check your local forecast here>>>
AND FINALLY
Parrot sings along to “Here Comes The Sun”
Check out this parrot’s rendition of a classic Beatles song! (Click here to view)
The-CNN-Wire
™ & © 2022 Cable News Network, Inc., a WarnerMedia Company. All rights reserved. | https://localnews8.com/news/national-world/cnn-national/2022/04/11/5-things-to-know-for-april-11-ukraine-covid-french-elections-shootings-masters-2/ | 2022-04-11T11:25:44Z |
2nd Annual PURPOSE Event Ascends Ranks of Country's Top Grossing Wine Auctions
PASO ROBLES, Calif., Aug. 18, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Wine industry and business leaders from across the country once again came together at Must! Charities' PURPOSE event with a shared passion to give back—and the results were astounding.
Indeed, in only its second year, PURPOSE doubled down and raised $2.5 million, far eclipsing the remarkable $1.3 million generated at last year's inaugural event. With this latest success, PURPOSE continues to rise in the ranks of the top 15 grossing wine auctions in the United States.
The 2nd annual PURPOSE event was held at Booker Vineyard on Saturday, August 13, 2022. The overwhelming success of the event stems from how it organically originated from small vintners who harnessed the power of allocation lists. PURPOSE was an ambition of Eric Jensen, farmer-winemaker at Booker Vineyard and a founding member of Must! Charities.
Quickly becoming renowned as "the best damn party in Paso Robles," PURPOSE is more than fine dining, luxurious auction lots and festive live performances. It is a party with a heart, dedicated to supporting critical needs in the greater San Luis Obispo County region. This year's theme was "Let's get uncomfortable," prompting guests to dig deep on behalf of those in need.
"Our little community of Paso Robles continues to show why it is the hottest and most special place in the wine world," Jensen said. "The local vintners and those who love their wines are not just in it for themselves. They are putting profits back in and building a stronger, healthier community that strives to leave no one behind."
"Fund a Need" Nets $1.3 Million
The star of this year's show was the "Fund a Need" lot benefitting the Vineyard Team's Juan Nevarez Memorial Scholarship Fund, which provides academic opportunities to children of vineyard and winery workers. A total of $1.3 million was raised for this lot, with more than $1 million earmarked for the scholarship fund with the remainder being invested in upcoming projects at Must! Charities. Top "Fund a Need" contributors included JUSTIN Vineyard & Winery, Constellation Brands, Eric and Lisa Jensen, Doug and Sabrina Kruse, Law Estate Wines, J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines, Saxum Vineyards and Southern Glazer's. These top bidders set the tone and energized more than 100 other people to raise their paddles in the spirit of giving.
"The hardest workers, those working amongst the vines and in the soil, are the ones who built the Paso wine region," said Becky Gray, Executive Director of Must! Charities. "But they aren't always the ones recognized and glamorized. It was incredibly emotional to witness the camaraderie of the crowd to come alongside these families and create opportunities in education that they may otherwise not have."
While Must! Charities has historically been a grassroots effort in the region, PURPOSE extends the organization's reach by bringing local Paso Roblans and out-of-towners together. The result allows for greater reach and leverage, increasing the impact for those who need it most. The success of PURPOSE ultimately gives Must! Charities increased capacity to move the needle on social issues.
To find out more about the MUST! Charities fundraising charitable campaigns, visit mustcharities.org or call 805.226.5788. Interviews are available upon request.
Media Contacts:
Becky Gray
Executive Director
805.674.6118
becky@mustcharities.org
Kyle Beal Flaherty
Brand Warrior
805.286.1879
kyle@mustcharities.org
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SOURCE Must! Charities | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/08/18/must-charities-raises-25-million-wine-industry-party-with-purpose/ | 2022-08-18T14:14:01Z |
SHENZHEN, China, July 18, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- On July 18, commercial service robots producer Pudu Robotics unveiled its newest offering, the all-new PuduBot 2. Featuring a range of upgrades, this new generation of universal delivery robots offers better environment adaptability, stronger sensors, higher battery power capacity, and superior stability to the very successful first-generation PuduBot launched in 2017.
A relay of classic, the PuduBot 2 is an enhanced version of PuduBot. It is more adaptable, with a high-performance lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery that can provide up to 24 hours of operational battery life on a three-hour charge. The battery is also safer and has a longer lifespan, making it a more sustainable and environmentally responsible option. In addition to the increased sustainability, the PuduBot 2 also comes with an upgraded industry-leading chassis system that increases driving stability by 30 percent.
The PuduBot 2 is equipped with the company's self-developed PUDU SLAM (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping) technology. It features an industry-first fusing laser and visual positioning navigation technology, as well as marker-less deployment, which cuts deployment time by 75 percent without the need to redecorate ceilings and ensures stable operation even in high-ceilinged environments of up to 20 meters. Moreover, the PuduBot 2 has dual lidar (laser imaging, detection, and range) sensors that allow it to constantly and accurately visualize its surroundings and make intuitive course adjustments.
With Pudu Robotics' self-developed PUDU OS, users can use an intuitive toolkit to design mapping paths and directions for their PuduBot 2 fleet and keep track of each robot's whereabouts at all times by using the smart-watch app. Each PuduBot 2 can communicate with not only users but also other nearby devices, automatically calibrating the best pathing for increased efficiency and flow over the shared network.
Since its inception, Pudu Robotics has been continuously optimizing its products, enriching the service space, and expanding application scenarios. The PuduBot 2, with its ability to move around smoothly and self-reliantly with great accuracy in mixed environments, a longer battery life, and a 7-layer adjustable tray design, can adapt to a variety of service or delivery tasks in industrial facilities, leisure and entertainment venues, retail stores, supermarkets and more, making it a robot that actually improves the efficiency of human production and living.
For more information, please visit www.pudurobotics.com
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SOURCE Pudu Robotics | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/07/18/pudu-robotics-rolls-out-all-new-pudubot-2-universal-delivery-robot/ | 2022-07-18T13:20:21Z |
Dodd City-Ector Baseball Highlights
Published: May. 20, 2022 at 10:55 PM CDT|Updated: 15 minutes ago
Dodd City-Ector Baseball Highlights
Copyright 2022 KXII. All rights reserved.
Dodd City-Ector Baseball Highlights
Copyright 2022 KXII. All rights reserved. | https://www.kxii.com/2022/05/21/dodd-city-ector-baseball-highlights/ | 2022-05-21T04:12:46Z |
NEW ORLEANS, July 1, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Former Attorney General of Louisiana, Charles C. Foti, Jr., Esq., a partner at the law firm of Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC ("KSF"), announces that KSF has commenced an investigation into Interface, Inc. (NasdaqGS: TILE).
On September 28, 2020, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") announced the results of its investigation into the Company's historical EPS calculations and rounding practices, including findings of inappropriate earnings management by, or at the direction of, the Company's two most senior accounting executives, as well as violations of the federal securities laws. The SEC Order also found that "Interface employees caused Interface to produce documents in response to commission investigative requests that were suggestive of contemporaneous support for journal entries that, in truth, did not exist at the time the entries were recorded," and had continued to modify documents even after the SEC began its investigation, resulting in a $5 million fine being levied against the Company, among other measures.
The Company has been sued in a securities class action lawsuit for failing to disclose material information, violating federal securities laws. Recently, the court presiding over that case denied the Company's motion to dismiss, allowing the case to move forward.
KSF's investigation is focusing on whether Interface's officers and/or directors breached their fiduciary duties to the Company's shareholders or otherwise violated state or federal laws.
If you have information that would assist KSF in its investigation, or have been a long-term holder of Interface shares and would like to discuss your legal rights, you may, without obligation or cost to you, call toll-free at 1-877-515-1850 or email KSF Managing Partner Lewis Kahn (lewis.kahn@ksfcounsel.com), or visit https://www.ksfcounsel.com/cases/nasdaqgs-tile/ to learn more.
KSF, whose partners include former Louisiana Attorney General Charles C. Foti, Jr., is one of the nation's premier boutique securities litigation law firms. KSF serves a variety of clients – including public institutional investors, hedge funds, money managers and retail investors – in seeking to recover investment losses due to corporate fraud and malfeasance by publicly traded companies. KSF has offices in New York, California, Louisiana and New Jersey.
To learn more about KSF, you may visit www.ksfcounsel.com.
Contact:
Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC
Lewis Kahn, Managing Partner
lewis.kahn@ksfcounsel.com
1-877-515-1850
1100 Poydras St., Suite 3200
New Orleans, LA 70163
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SOURCE Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/07/02/interface-investigation-initiated-by-former-louisiana-attorney-general-kahn-swick-amp-foti-llc-investigates-officers-directors-interface-inc-tile/ | 2022-07-02T04:04:46Z |
TORONTO, June 1, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Tropical Forest Products has announced that its premium Black Label™ brand of Ipe and other tropical hardwoods will expand distribution in the upper Midwest and Southeast through a partnership with Weekes Forest Products, based in St. Paul, Minn. Weekes will distribute the full line of Black Label products through its seven distribution centers.
Dedicated to sustainability, all Black Label hardwoods are carefully and 100% legally sourced from South America. Taking into account the age, size and productive wellbeing of the forest, trees used to produce Black Label's lumber are methodically chosen and harvested. The brand's lumber portfolio consists of Ipe, Cumaru, Jatoba, Garapa, Angelim and Tigerwood, with a variety of applications ranging from decking, cladding and ceilings to timber sizes and architectural millwork.
"The Black Label brand offers its customers above architectural grade lumber to achieve their vision," said Brian Lotz, Technical Director for Tropical Forest Products. "Expanding our distribution network with Weekes Forest Products will help us meet rising industry demand for certified sustainable tropical hardwoods."
"Weekes is excited to offer Black Label's curated lumber collection," said John H. Lesher - Regional Vice President, Weekes Forest Products. "The addition of Black Label to our product line will provide our customers with beautiful lumber options for any application."
The brand sets a new level of quality for the industry with impeccable strength and impressive performance in every product, thanks to Black Label's kiln-dried process. To earn the name Black Label, every board and hardware accessory must be Premium Architectural Grade or above.
Black Label provides a complete marketing and promotional support program along with a very strong online presence, all with the dealer, contractor, architect, designer and homeowner in mind. Learn more about the superior line of Black Label tropical woods and accessory products at https://blacklabelwood.com. Learn more about Tropical Forest Products at https://WeAreTropical.com or call 905-672-8000.
About Weekes Forest Products
Founded in 1978, Weekes Forest Products is a leading distributor of specialty building materials, commodity and MSR lumber, Engineered Wood Components, and industrial materials. Each of these product groups are supported by our team of experienced specialists, who are considered the best in the industry. Learn more about Weekes Forest Products by visiting www.weekesforest.com or call 651-644-9807.
About Tropical Forest Products
Tropical Forest Products, a leading hardwood distributor that operates throughout the United States and Canada, was founded with the belief that acquiring lumber of superior quality should be easy and ethical. Its team is made up of passionate people who love everything about forests and their survival. Tropical strives to meet every client's need with quality lumber, deliver products on time, maintain commitment to client service, and maintain the best prices in the market.
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SOURCE Tropical Forest Products | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/06/01/tropical-forest-products-black-label-expands-distribution-upper-midwest-southeast-with-weekes-forest-products-inc/ | 2022-06-01T15:38:09Z |
- Company shares opening dates with season kicking off in October at Keystone Resort
- Lift tickets to be limited every day of the season, across all 37 resorts
BROOMFIELD, Colo., Aug. 22, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Vail Resorts today announced the opening dates of its 37 North American resorts, offering skiing and riding coast-to-coast and one of the longest seasons in the country for its Epic Pass Holders. Additionally, the company shared it will limit lift ticket sales throughout the entirety of the 2022/23 season to prioritize the mountain experience for its guests.
"We care deeply about our guests' experience at our resorts," said James O'Donnell, president of Vail Resorts' Mountain division. "Limiting lift tickets throughout the season, alongside the big investments we're making at our resorts and in our team members, will help us provide our guests with an Experience of a Lifetime this winter."
Vail Resorts is investing heavily in its strongest asset this season – its team members, by increasing employee pay and leadership development opportunities, and investing in affordable employee housing and other employee benefits and perks. Additionally, the company is making a bold investment in many exciting lift upgrades across its resorts to help guests move up and around the mountain faster and more easily. This includes 18 new chairlifts and gondolas, as well as a restaurant upgrade and snowmaking investments – all which are on track to open this season.
Guests can also expect more normal indoor operations this season as dining facilities will no longer require proof of COVID-19 vaccinations or dining reservations. More details below.
RESORT OPENING DATES
The season will kick off at Keystone Resort in October, opening as soon as weather and conditions permit, along with some help from its state-of-the-art, energy-efficient snowmaking system. Another 16 of the company's North American resorts are set to open for skiing and riding in November, from Whistler Blackcomb and Heavenly in the West, to Vail and Breckenridge in the Rockies, to Okemo and Mt. Snow in Vt., as well as the company's newest North American resort, Seven Springs in Pa.
The season will continue into the spring, with Kirkwood Resort planning to stay open until the end of April, and Whistler Blackcomb and Breckenridge planning to operate well into May.
Planned opening dates across the company's 37 North American resorts, which are subject to change based on weather and conditions, include:
ROCKIES & WEST REGIONS
- Mid-Oct.: Keystone (CO)
- Nov. 11: Breckenridge (CO), Vail (CO)
- Nov. 18: Heavenly (CA), Northstar (CA), Park City (UT)
- Nov. 23: Beaver Creek (CO), Crested Butte (CO)
- Nov. 24: Whistler Blackcomb (British Columbia)
- Dec. 2: Kirkwood (CA), Stevens Pass (WA)
EAST REGION
- Nov. 11: Mt. Snow (VT)
- Nov. 18: Afton Alps (MN), Hunter (NY), Stowe (VT), Wildcat (NH)
- Nov. 19: Okemo (VT)
- Nov. 23: Mt. Sunapee (NH)
- Nov. 25: Seven Springs (PA)
- Dec. 2: Attitash (NH), Crotched (NH), Jack Frost (PA)
- Dec. 3: Mt. Brighton (MI), Wilmot (WI)
- Dec. 16: Big Boulder (PA), Liberty (PA), Roundtop (PA), Whitetail (PA)
- Dec. 17: Alpine Valley (OH), Boston Mills and Brandywine (OH), Hidden Valley (MO), Mad River (OH), Paoli Peaks (IN), Snow Creek (MO)
- Dec. 23: Hidden Valley (PA), Laurel Mountain (PA)
LIFT TICKET LIMITATIONS
Guests planning to visit this winter – whether one day or every day – are encouraged to purchase their lift access in advance – whether it is a lift ticket, Epic Day Pass or season pass. Lift tickets will be limited every day, across every resort, during the 2022/23 season in order to preserve the guest experience at each resort. Availability of lift tickets will be visible on resort websites in the coming weeks. If tickets are sold out online, guests will not be able to purchase them at ticket windows.
Passes, including Epic Day Passes, and Pass Holder benefit tickets will not be limited. There is also no impact to guests who enroll in ski and ride school lessons that include lift access, or to employee and dependent pass access.
Skiers and riders have until Labor Day (Sept. 5) to lock in their Epic Pass before prices increase. Pass products, including regional passes and day passes, are available now on the Epic Pass website.
SAFETY PROTOCOLS
Vail Resorts will not require face coverings, vaccines or dining reservations this coming season across its resorts. With safety as its top priority, the company will continue to monitor the changing dynamics of the pandemic, but at this time does not plan to have any of these measures in place. Employees will continue to complete daily health screenings and resorts will still apply enhanced cleaning practices.
WINTER LODGING SALE
For a limited time, travelers who book their winter trips in advance will receive discounted rates on lodging. From Aug. 30-Sept. 6, Vail Resorts' Winter Getaway Sale will feature the best winter lodging rates across its portfolio of premier mountain destinations in North America. Epic Pass Holders can take advantage of the deal sooner with early access to the sale starting Aug. 25. Plus, Epic Pass Holders receive an additional 20% off lodging rates with Epic Mountain Rewards.
GETTING EXCITED FOR 2022/23
For more information on what's new and exciting this season, click below to hear from some of our North American resorts:
- Colorado (Vail Mountain, Breckenridge, Beaver Creek, Keystone, Crested Butte)
- Park City
- Whistler Blackcomb
- Tahoe (Heavenly, Northstar, Kirkwood)
- Seven Springs (Seven Springs, Hidden Valley, Laurel Mountain)
About Vail Resorts, Inc. (NYSE: MTN)
Vail Resorts is a network of the best destination and close-to-home ski resorts in the world including Vail Mountain, Breckenridge, Park City Mountain, Whistler Blackcomb, Stowe, and 32 additional resorts across North America; Andermatt-Sedrun in Switzerland; and Perisher, Hotham, and Falls Creek in Australia. We are passionate about providing an Experience of a Lifetime to our team members and guests, and our EpicPromise is to reach a zero net operating footprint by 2030, support our employees and communities, and broaden engagement in our sport. Our company owns and/or manages a collection of casually elegant hotels under the Rock Resorts brand, as well as the Grand Teton Lodge Company in Jackson Hole, Wyo. Vail Resorts Retail operates more than 250 retail and rental locations across North America. Learn more about our company at www.VailResorts.com, or discover our resorts and pass options at www.EpicPass.com.
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SOURCE Vail Resorts, Inc. | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/08/22/vail-resorts-announces-operating-plans-202223-north-american-ski-ride-season/ | 2022-08-22T17:22:54Z |
Features the popular BarkBox!
MONTEREY, Calif., May 24, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Victorian Inn announces its new Bark by the Bay pet package for pups and their people. Bark by the Bay includes a one-night stay, a BarkBox amenity for our four-legged guests, and a wine and cheese reception for our two-legged guests. Pooches and their owners are welcome to check-in at the lobby, where pups have their own check-in counter. This package starts at $218.00, inclusive of a pet fee on select dates.
The clever coastal-themed BarkBox, created especially for Victorian Inn, features two plush toys and two bags of all-natural treats. BarkBox is created by BARK, the world's most dog-obsessed company. From products to packaging, BARK's in-house team designs every piece of the Box to create insane joy for dogs and smiles for their people.
Victorian Inn is ideally located for guests to explore Cannery Row, historic downtown, and area attractions which include the world-renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium, gorgeous San Carlos Beach, and the famous Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail. Originally the Lang Mansion, built in 1901, Victorian Inn's gracious first floor welcomes guests to the check-in and relax in the cozy reception area. A fireplace and several seating areas provide places to rest, enjoy a good book or make plans. Guests start the day in the dining area with a complimentary Continental breakfast buffet that includes a hot breakfast dish. At day's end, complimentary California wines, cheese, and fruit are served from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
The hotel's 70 guest rooms have fetching décor and tail-wagging amenities such as in-room fireplaces, on-site parking, and lovely gardens surrounding the boutique hotel. Guestrooms are located in adjacent buildings designed to complement the Victorian style of the original home.
Founded in 2012, BARK is devoted to making dogs happy and healthy. Having loyally served over 2 million dog homes nationwide, BARK is one of the most engaged brands on social media, with over 7.5M dog-obsessed followers. BARK offers monthly subscription services, BarkBox and Super Chewer, available at BarkBox.com or BarkShop.com and its retail partner network.
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SOURCE Victorian Inn | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/05/24/bark-by-bay-pet-package-victorian-inn/ | 2022-05-24T21:51:59Z |
Marks Pluribus' Seventh Acquisition in the Growing eLearning Market
TORONTO, May 17, 2022 /PRNewswire/ - Pluribus Technologies Corp. (TSXV: PLRB) ("Pluribus" or the "Company"), a growing acquiror of small, profitable software companies, today announced that pursuant to a share purchase agreement dated May 16, 2022, the "Share Purchase Agreement") it has acquired (the "Acquisition") all of the issued and outstanding shares of Knowledge Strategies Inc. doing business as Tortal Training ("Tortal").
Based in Woburn, MA, Tortal has a 21-year operating track record as a provider of learning management systems ("LMSs"), employee training and eLearning program services. Tortal has a broad customer base but specializes in solutions for automotive (OEM, aftermarket and motorsport) and consumer products franchises, with a focus on organizations with distributed workforces.
"Businesses across North American are looking for advanced tools to support effective training of increasingly distributed workforces and Tortal's custom LMS, library of in-demand courses and diverse U.S. customer base are expected to be highly complementary to our rapidly growing eLearning solutions offering," said Richard Adair, CEO of Pluribus Technologies. "We see a range of customer cross-selling opportunities right across Pluribus' portfolio of 12 acquired companies that we will pursue while we also integrate Tortal under The Learning Network banner."
"This is a very exciting time for Tortal, as we embark on the next stage in our journey," said Evan Hackel CEO of Tortal. "We are very impressed with Pluribus and how they collaborate between the companies they acquire to make every company better. Being part of Pluribus will give us the tools that we need to take the company to the next level. This is a great opportunity for Tortal, our employees and our customers.
- Tortal has a long history as a profitable business with an established operational track record, including a number of partners offering Tortal programs on their platforms;
- Further strengthens Pluribus' presence in the eLearning market and as a provider of learning management systems suitable for a range of organization types;
- Tortal's LMS is focused on franchises and associations, which supports opportunities with existing Pluribus portfolio companies, Assured Software and SkilSure, who have similar business models
- For the first time, Pluribus acquires a full library of soft skills courses that can be cross-sold across the Pluribus portfolio of companies; and
- Tortal will rapidly integrate under Pluribus' newly established eLearning banner, The Learning Network.
Pursuant to the terms of the Share Purchase Agreement, the Company has agreed to pay the current shareholders of Tortal an aggregate of approximately US$1.4 million in cash and issue 175,926 common shares of the Company for a total purchase price of approximately US$1.9 million. In addition, the current Tortal shareholders will be entitled to an earn-out based on the achievement of future performance targets by Tortal. The price paid for the acquisition falls within Pluribus' historical target range for Adjusted EBITDA1 and the acquisition is expected to be immediately accretive.
Evan Hackel, the CEO of Tortal, has more than 20 years of progressive business leadership experience, most recently as a member of the executive team for one of the largest privately held cooperatives in the United States. He will remain involved in Tortal post-acquisition to ensure a smooth integration into the Pluribus portfolio of companies.
Tortal is a full-service eLearning provider specializing in developing interactive eLearning solutions. Tortal makes effective training for organizations with distributed workforces easier, by enhancing learning outcomes using strategic methodologies for engagement. This approach helps maximize an investment in learning and development, which in turn drives sustainable improvements in business performance and results. For more information, please visit: https://www.tortal.com/.
Pluribus is a technology company that is a value-based acquirer of small, profitable business-to-business technology companies in a range of verticals and industries. Pluribus provides its acquisitions access to experienced sales and marketing resources, strategic partnership opportunities, a diverse portfolio of customers in different geographical markets and enabling technologies to create new revenue streams and provide the opportunity for these companies to grow in their respective markets. For more information, please visit: https://www.pluribustechnologies.com/.
The Company uses non-IFRS measures to assess its operating performance. Securities regulations require that companies caution readers that earnings and other measures adjusted to a basis other than IFRS do not have standardized meanings and are unlikely to be comparable to similar measures used by other companies. Accordingly, they should not be considered in isolation. The Company uses Adjusted EBITDA as a measure of operating performance. Management uses Adjusted EBITDA to evaluate operating performance as it excludes amortization of software and intangibles (which is an accounting allocation of the cost of software and intangible assets arising on acquisition), any impact of finance and tax related activities, asset depreciation, foreign exchange gains and losses, other income, restructuring and transition costs primarily related to acquisitions and other one-time non-recurring transactions.
Certain information in this press release constitutes forward-looking statements under applicable securities laws. Any statements that are contained in this news release that are not statements of historical fact may be deemed to be forward-looking statements. Forward-looking information in this press release includes, but is not limited to, statements with respect to the business plans of the Company, including the successful completion and pace of future acquisitions, the Company management's expectation on the growth, profitability and performance of its current and future acquisitions, TSXV approval of the Acquisition, Tortal's continued growth and profitability, Evan Hackel's engagement by Tortal following the closing of the Acquisition, the anticipated synergies between Tortal and the Company, the Company's ability to continue acquiring business-to-business software companies at reasonable prices and the Company's ability to grow its portfolio companies into significant organizations. Forward-looking statements are often identified by terms such as "may", "should", "anticipate", "expect", "potential", "believe", "intend" or negatives of these terms and similar expressions.
Forward-looking statements are based on certain assumptions, including the Company's ability to complete acquisitions on favourable terms; the Company's ability to manage a complex portfolio of companies effectively; the Company's ability to scale its management team to support a rapid pace of growth; the Company's ability to raise sufficient financing to continue the pace of its acquisition strategy; the Company's ability to maintain its rapid pace of growth. Other assumptions include industry trends, the availability of growth opportunities, and general business, economic, competitive, political, regulatory and social uncertainties will not prevent the Company from conducting its business. While the Company considers these assumptions to be reasonable based on information currently available, they are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies and they may prove to be incorrect. Forward-looking information speaks only to such assumptions as of the date of this release.
Forward-looking statements also necessarily involve known and unknown risks, including without limitation, risks associated with general economic conditions, including the COVID-19 pandemic, adverse industry events, marketing costs, loss of markets, future legislative and regulatory developments, the inability to access sufficient capital on favourable terms, the Company's limited operating history; ability to complete favourable acquisitions; the software industry in Canada and internationally, income tax and regulatory matters, the ability of the Company to execute its business strategies, including the ability manage a complex portfolio of companies effectively, competition, currency and interest rate fluctuations, and other risks.
Readers are cautioned that the foregoing is not exhaustive. Readers are further cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements as there can be no assurance that the plans, intentions or expectations upon which they are placed will occur. Such information, although considered reasonable by management at the time of preparation, may prove to be incorrect and actual results may differ from those anticipated. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance. The purpose of forward-looking information is to provide the reader with a description of management's expectations, and such forward-looking information may not be appropriate for any other purpose. Except as required by law, the Company disclaims any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, events or otherwise. Forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement.
Neither the TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release.
Contact:
Craig Armitage
LodeRock Advisors
investors@pluribustechnologies.com
+1 (416) 347-8954
Richard Adair
Chief Executive Officer
Pluribus Technologies Corp.
1 (800) 851-9383
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SOURCE Pluribus Technologies Corp. | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/05/17/pluribus-technologies-corp-expands-elearning-portfolio-with-acquisition-tortal-training/ | 2022-05-17T11:52:17Z |
Vena Complete Planning receives highest ranking from Dresner Advisory Services in 2022 Wisdom of Crowds Study
TORONTO, Aug. 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Vena, the Complete Planning platform loved by finance and trusted by business, today announced it has been named an Overall Leader in the 2022 Wisdom of Crowds Enterprise Performance Management (EPM) Market Study conducted by Dresner Advisory Services. The Wisdom of Crowds EPM report is the result of a survey of customer sentiment toward their vendors; Overall Leaders are those companies that score the highest across 33 different criteria.
"Vena Solutions' scores are above the overall sample, with key improvements across virtually all measures," said Howard Dresner, Founder and Chief Research Officer, Dresner Advisory. "It is best-in-class for overall value and is an Overall Leader in the Customer Experience Model and Vendor Credibility Model. It has a perfect recommend score."
Vena helps finance teams analyze, gain insights and report on business performance to help organizations forecast, plan, budget and report on their key performance indicators. Vena Complete Planning automates planning processes across departments and systems in human resources, marketing and sales, each of which can benefit from EPM for forecasting, budgeting and reporting, revenue planning, workforce planning, scenario analysis and beyond.
"We are proud to be the highest-rated vendor in the Dresner 2022 Wisdom of Crowds for EPM. Our ranking is a testament not only to the diligence of our engineering and product teams, but also to the dedication of our customer success specialists who ensure a positive customer experience for all Vena customers," said Vena Chief Technology Officer Hugh Cumming. "Receiving such high marks from our user community across all categories truly motivates us to continue to provide valuable solutions to help our customers Plan To Grow™."
The recognition by Dresner Advisory Services comes on top of a strong 2022 for Vena, which has experienced more than 40% growth, year to date, in both revenue and employee headcount. Vena was designated one of Canada's Top Small and Medium Employers by Mediacorp Canada, Inc. and received four Comparably Awards, Best Company Outlook and Best Marketing Team in Q1, and Best CEOs for Diversity and Best CEOs for Women in Q2.
For more about the 2022 Wisdom of Crowds EPM Market Study, please click here.
About Vena
Vena is the only native Excel Complete Planning platform built for Microsoft 365 with Power BI Embedded. Vena transforms how business, finance and operations leaders Plan To Grow™ with the Vena Growth Engine, the SaaS platform and methodology that empowers and inspires your plans and guides your growth journey. Over 1,300 of the world's leading companies power their growth with Vena. For more information, visit venasolutions.com.
Media Contact
Jonathan Paul
Senior Director, Content & Communications, Vena
jpaul@venacorp.com
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SOURCE Vena | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/08/11/vena-receives-perfect-recommend-score-epm-vendor-analysis/ | 2022-08-11T14:30:52Z |
WASHINGTON, May 26, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- NASA has selected hundreds of small businesses and dozens of research institutions to develop technology to help drive the future of space exploration, ranging from novel sensors and electronics to new types of software and cutting-edge materials. The newly awarded projects under the agency's Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) program also include a high-power electric rocket and a coating to make solar panels more efficient that could be used both in space and here on Earth.
The awards total nearly $50 million, with investments spread out over 39 states and Washington. Under the selection, 333 proposals from 257 small businesses and 41 research institutions – including 10 Minority Serving Institutions – will be awarded first-round funding for technology development. View the full lists of SBIR awardees and STTR awardees online.
"NASA is working on ambitious, groundbreaking missions that require innovative solutions from a variety of sources – especially our small businesses," said NASA Deputy Administrator Pam Melroy. "Small businesses have the creative edge and expertise needed to help our agency solve our common and complex challenges, and they are crucial to maintaining NASA's leadership in space. The SBIR program is one of the key ways we do that as well as creating jobs in a growing, sustainable space economy."
NASA investments in American small businesses and research institutions help provide the innovations needed for the exciting and ambitious missions on the agency's horizon and foster robust commercial space and technology sectors.
Each proposal team will receive $150,000 – a 20% increase over previous years' funding – to establish the merit and feasibility of their innovations. Phase I SBIR contracts are awarded to small businesses and last for six months, while Phase I STTR contracts are awarded to small businesses in partnership with a research institution and last for 13 months.
"The selections span a breadth of areas to empower the agency's work in human exploration, space technology, science, and aeronautics," said Jenn Gustetic, director of early-stage innovation and partnerships for NASA's Space Technology Mission Directorate. "We're excited about the uses for these technologies for Artemis and other missions, as well as their potential use in the commercial space industry and people's everyday lives."
About 30% of the awards will go to first-time NASA SBIR/STTR recipients. This includes Ad Astra Rocket Company based in Webster, Texas. With its Phase I award, the company will develop a new way of manufacturing part of its Variable Specific Impulse Magnetoplasma Rocket, or VASIMR, engine – a high-power electric rocket engine the company has been working on with NASA for 25 years. In the engine, powerful radiofrequency waves are launched by special antennas, called couplers. The waves ionize gas into plasma, which is then accelerated to provide rocket thrust. The Phase I funding will be used to manufacture couplers in a way that increases the engine's power limit. This innovation will help move the entire engine closer to commercialization, where it could be used for high-maneuverability satellites, lunar settlement cargo delivery, and more.
Nearly 25% of the selected companies are women-owned, veteran-owned, disadvantaged, and/or HUBzone small businesses. For example, D2K Technologies, a women- and minority-owned small business based in Oceanside, California, will create a monitoring and advisory system for health management of solenoid operated valves (SOV) used in industrial applications with its Phase I award. This technology could find use in many of NASA's research centers, testing centers, and launch sites, since SOVs are basic components of most fluid systems. And, with the widespread use of SOVs in industrial applications, the system could be useful to oil and gas, nuclear, manufacturing, power generation, chemical, food, and pharmaceutical companies. This eight-person company is also a first-time NASA SBIR awardee.
"Finding and building a diverse community of entrepreneurs is a central part of our program's outreach, and the efforts to reach them can start even before Phase I," said Gynelle Steele, deputy program executive for NASA's SBIR/STTR program at NASA Headquarters in Washington. "For example, working in partnership with NASA's Minority University Research and Education Project, we started offering M-STTR planning grants last year, which incentivized partnerships between MSIs and small businesses and prepared them to submit a STTR Phase I proposal in 2022."
M-STTR awardee Oakwood University, a historically Black university based in Huntsville, Alabama, will continue working alongside SSS Optical Technologies, a small business also based in Huntsville, using their Phase I award to develop a new type of coating for photovoltaic (PV) cells embedded in solar sails. The coating could generate extra electricity and improve the overall PV conversion efficiency, which could advance solar sailing and other power and energy conversion needs for space exploration. This technology could improve the efficiency of commercial solar panels.
NASA selected Phase I proposals to receive funding by judging their technical merit and commercial potential. Based on their progress during Phase I, companies may submit proposals for $850,000 in Phase II funding to develop a prototype, as well as subsequent SBIR/STTR Post Phase II opportunities. The NASA SBIR/STTR program is part of the Space Technology Mission Directorate and is managed by NASA's Ames Research Center in California's Silicon Valley.
To learn more about NASA's SBIR/STTR program and apply to future opportunities, visit:
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SOURCE NASA | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/05/26/nasa-supports-small-business-research-power-future-exploration/ | 2022-05-26T22:33:26Z |
ROTTERDAM, Netherlands, June 29, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Anywhere365®, the leading cloud-based contact center and dialogue management platform for the Microsoft 365 ecosystem, has appointed Enrico Karsten as CEO. He will succeed the company's founder, Gijs Geurts, who will take on a new role as Chair of the Board.
Enrico Karsten is a highly regarded, people-orientated business leader who brings a wealth of experience in business strategy in the unified communication and IoT space. Already one year ago he was appointed as Managing Director. In this role he has led the day-to-day operations of Anywhere365 and – together with CFO Frans Koch – prepared the organization for further growth.
New phase of growth
"Today I proudly and confidently hand over the reins over the company to Enrico," said Gijs Geurts. "Having founded Anywhere365 10 years ago, I look back in gratitude and pride to all that we have achieved. Over 2,000 global enterprises have chosen Anywhere365 Dialogue Cloud as the native communication platform on top of their Microsoft investments and our revenue has grown 250% year-on-year over the past 3 years. I'm celebrating this change in leadership, as it marks a new phase of growth. Enrico is the perfect fit to lead this next phase, taking Anywhere365 to $ 100 Million revenue in 2024."
Cyrus Shey, managing partner, Bregal Milestone and non-executive director, Anywhere365: "Enrico brings an impressive background of deep experience and entrepreneurial drive to delight customers. In the past year, in his role as MD, Enrico has proven that his energy, dedication, leadership and commitment to customers are excellent qualities to lead Anywhere365 during the next phase of growth. I wish to extend my sincere thanks to Gijs for his leadership for the past 10 years and we look forward to supporting Enrico to deliver an exciting future of profitable growth."
Maximize the value of time
"I am absolutely thrilled to start this in this position and would like to thank Gijs and the rest of the board for their trust," said Enrico Karsten. "The future of work, productivity and customer experiences is constantly evolving. But our aim remains solid and clear: we want to maximize the value of every minute in any customer dialogue. For enterprise companies, as well as their customers. We will keep focusing on beyond-smart routing, automation, digitization and a firm alignment with Microsoft's UC strategy. I am looking forward to work with the amazing people within Anywhere365 and our partners to further scale up the benefits of our platform, capture more market share, and become the leading Dialogue Routing Hub for the Microsoft ecosystem."
About Anywhere36®
Anywhere365® is the leading cloud contact center and dialogue management platform for the Microsoft 365 ecosystem. It was founded on the vision to maximize the value of time by reducing unnecessary dialogues. Award-winning Anywhere365® Dialogue Cloud platform enhances customer experiences as well as workforce productivity. It is found in 2,000+ of the largest international brands, such as Rabobank, Coca Cola, McDonalds, Nestlé and more than 30 Fortune 500 companies. Anywhere365® has offices in the USA, UK, Australia, Germany, France and the Netherlands (HQ).
Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1850311/Enrico_Karsten.jpg
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SOURCE Anywhere 365 | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/06/29/anywhere365-appoints-enrico-karsten-new-ceo/ | 2022-06-29T15:04:54Z |
Head-on crash kills two in western Kansas
Published: May. 11, 2022 at 8:48 AM CDT|Updated: 8 minutes ago
TOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) - Two people are dead following a head-on crash in western Kansas late Tuesday afternoon.
According to the Kansas Highway Patrol Paul Robert Rangel, 64, of Garden City was traveling east on US-50 in Gray Co. when he drove onto the south shoulder, over corrected and crossed the center line.
KHP says the 2007 Chevy Cobalt Rangel was driving collided head-on with a 2016 Dodge Grand Caravan driven by Donald Louis Woosley, 50, of Garden City.
Both men were pronounced dead at the scene. KHP says Woosley was wearing a seatbelt, Rangel was not.
The accident happened around 5:07 p.m. roughly 17 miles west of KS-23.
Copyright 2022 WIBW. All rights reserved. | https://www.wibw.com/2022/05/11/head-on-crash-kills-two-western-kansas/ | 2022-05-11T13:58:17Z |
VANCOUVER, BC, May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ - American Hotel Income Properties REIT LP ("AHIP") (TSX: HOT.UN, HOT.U, and HOT.DB.V) announces that at its annual and special meeting of unitholders ("the Meeting"), held earlier today, all directors nominated as listed in the information circular dated April 8, 2022 were elected as directors of American Hotel Income Properties REIT (GP) Inc. for the ensuing year. As a ballot was not required, the number of votes disclosed in the below table reflects only the proxies received by management of AHIP in advance of the Meeting.
The renewal and amendment and restatement of AHIP's securities-based compensation plan was approved by unitholders at the Meeting, with 12,302,035 votes (84.34%) in favour.
The reconfirmation and amendment and restatement of AHIP's unitholder rights plan agreement was also approved by unitholders at the Meeting, with 14,243,670 votes (97.65%) in favour.
AHIP has filed a report of voting results of all resolutions voted on at this meeting on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.
American Hotel Income Properties REIT LP (TSX: HOT.UN, TSX: HOT.U, TSX: HOT.DB.V), or AHIP, is a limited partnership formed to invest in hotel real estate properties across the United States. AHIP's portfolio of premium branded, select-service hotels are located in secondary metropolitan markets that benefit from diverse and stable demand. AHIP hotels operate under brands affiliated with Marriott, Hilton, IHG and Choice Hotels through license agreements. The Company's long-term objectives are to build on its proven track record of successful investment, deliver monthly U.S. dollar denominated distributions to unitholders, and generate value through the continued growth of its diversified hotel portfolio. More information is available at www.ahipreit.com.
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SOURCE American Hotel Income Properties REIT LP | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/05/11/american-hotel-income-properties-reit-lp-reports-voting-results-annual-special-meeting/ | 2022-05-11T23:04:43Z |
New Makeup Collection from Makeup Revolution is Aiming to Inspire Real Life Beauty
NEW YORK, July 20, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Makeup Revolution, the ever-popular British beloved makeup brand launches today, IRL Filter Foundation, an all-new foundation line available exclusively at ULTA Beauty stores nationwide, on Ulta.com and RevolutionBeauty.com. With 30 inclusive and skin-loving shades, the breathable foundation supports your skin's true beauty leaving beauty filters behind. IRL Foundation serves as confidence in a bottle and is formulated to diffuse pores and withstands a 16-hour wear – No touch ups needed!
Makeup Revolution launches IRL Filter Foundation to their coveted makeup portfolio with a campaign aiming to inspire consumers to feel confident with the comfortable long wear formula.
The soft matte and breathable foundation is oil-free, provides 20% more pigment for easy buildable coverage and is infused with Niacinamide for diffusing pores and concealing potential blemishes. With 30 shades ranging from fair to deep that are vegan and cruelty-free, Makeup Revolution continues to embrace a diverse breadth of consumers.
"With IRL Filter Foundation being one of our biggest launches to date, we are so eager to introduce this campaign to Gen Z and Young Millennials that have shown to be influential and supportive in finding real beauty within, a message that resonates with everyone here at Makeup Revolution," states Adam Minto, CEO and Founder of Revolution Beauty. "Following our success of Conceal & Define and Fast Base collections, we worked to further develop a new inspiring collection with IRL Filter Foundation that will adhere to a variety of consumers."
As the makeup brand behind viral TikTok's stemming from Gen Z and Young Millennials, Revolution Beauty addressed their combined social and retail audience of 8 million to take part in a survey surrounding filter use within their demographic. Results show that 40% of young people distort their appearance on every image they share, 80% of 13–34-year-olds suffer self-esteem issues based on their appearance and 1 in 2 girls dislike the way they look without filter. With Revolution Beauty conducting their own research, IRL Filter Foundation was born to help consumers build confidence and refrain from using filters on social media. In support of #NoFilterRevolution, Makeup Revolution has pledged £25,000 to The Mix, UK's leading support service for those under 25 years of age. Through a 24-hour helpline, The Mix takes on the coming-of-age questions that people under 25 have in order to give them the best support and assure all young people are able to make informed choices about their physical and mental wellbeing. Together, Makeup Revolution and The Mix are providing tools for the next generation to embrace true beauty.
The Makeup Revolution IRL Filter Foundation ($13) is available exclusively at ULTA stores nationwide, on Ulta.com and RevolutionBeauty.com.
ABOUT MAKEUP REVOLUTION// FOLLOW US @MAKEUPREVOLUTION
Makeup Revolution is a British-based, independent company available in over 60 countries worldwide. Makeup Revolution falls under the Revolution Beauty brand umbrella, accompanied with I Heart Revolution, Revolution PRO and Revolution Skincare. Revolution Beauty is the fastest growing company in the UK (December 2018), according to The Sunday Times. #OpenMinds is Revolution's call for everyone to celebrate diversity, embrace imperfection, respect self-expression and support beauty in its many shapes and forms. All Makeup Revolution products are PETA-certified cruelty free, never tested on animals and 76% vegan (and growing!).
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SOURCE Revolution Beauty | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/07/20/makeup-revolution-introduces-irl-filter-foundation/ | 2022-07-20T15:22:24Z |
PITTSBURGH, July 15, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- "I thought there should be a quick and simple way to clean the inside of an air fryer," said an inventor, from Richmond, Va., "so I invented the ULTIMATE AIR FRYER. My design allows you to access and remove food particles, grease and other debris that may collect on the inside of the unit."
The patent-pending invention provides an improved design for an air fryer. In doing so, it enables the user to easily remove old grease and food particles. As a result, it enhances sanitation and safety and it saves time and effort. The invention features a practical design that is easy to use so it is ideal for households and commercial kitchens. Additionally, it is producible in design variations.
The original design was submitted to the Richmond sales office of InventHelp. It is currently available for licensing or sale to manufacturers or marketers. For more information, write Dept. 20-RKH-242, InventHelp, 217 Ninth Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15222, or call (412) 288-1300 ext. 1368. Learn more about InventHelp's Invention Submission Services at http://www.InventHelp.com.
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SOURCE InventHelp | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/07/15/inventhelp-inventor-develops-improved-design-air-fryers-rkh-242/ | 2022-07-15T16:27:32Z |
ARLINGTON, Va., July 21, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, the Aurora Institute - a national education nonprofit focused on education systems change - has released its annual report outlining key federal policy issues aimed at transforming our K-12 education system so it is fit for purpose, strengthening our democracy and shaping our next generation of engaged citizens.
Informed by the expertise and wisdom of thousands in its community, the Aurora Institute's federal policy priorities are a set of nine recommendations designed to ensure education systems move from the current state to future-focused systems capable of preparing all learners with building the knowledge and skills necessary to achieve lifelong success. The priorities include:
o Advance education innovations
o Transform systems of assessments
o Rethink next generation accountability
o Create learning ecosystems and competency-based pathways aligned across K-12, higher education, career and technical education, and the workforce
o Modernize the educator workforce
o Diversify the educator workforce
o Advance educational equity
o Bridge the digital divide
o Support COVID-19 learning recovery
"This set of innovative, future-focused federal policy recommendations are geared at challenging the status quo and current federal policy frames that perpetuate tinkering with the existing system, rather than reimagining it," said Susan Patrick, the organization's president and chief executive officer. "It's past time that federal policymakers shift their mindsets and embark on fundamental changes that support innovation from the bottom-up in order to begin to advance future focused education systems for a greater good."
The Aurora Institute Center for Policy conducts policy analysis and provides recommendations to federal and state policymakers, education agencies, state boards, education leaders, and other local policymakers to work together with their communities to transform education systems; advance competency-based education systems and align pathways; build capacity by investing in people, rethink accountability and assessment, and advance educational equity.
Download our 2022 federal policy recommendations for a full analysis of these issues. Policy makers at all levels are encouraged to contact the Aurora Institute Center for Policy for more information or assistance.
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SOURCE Aurora Institute | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/07/21/newly-released-aurora-institute-federal-policy-priorities-call-policymakers-transform-k-12-education/ | 2022-07-21T15:58:38Z |
DALLAS (KDAF) — What-a-shock this might be for those getting fast food in the Lone Star State as Texas’ most searched chain stays true to home while a majority of the country remains obsessed with Chick-fil-A.
While 27 of 50 states are searching for Chick-fil-A the most, according to research done by My Telescope, Texas remains focused in-house as Whataburger keeps its throne. My Telescope said, “Regional chains like Wisconsin-based Culver’s and Texas-headquartered Whataburger were the top results in their respective states, as well as many neighboring states in the region, over other nationally-recognized chains.”
“Share of search measures search data combined with sentiment analysis to give a more accurate measurement of consumer and business purchasing intent and demand,” said Rodrigo Graviz, CEO of My Telescope. “Data can be geo-fenced by state or country to give an accurate look into what people in the area are searching for. When combined with specific keywords, Share of Search data can give valuable insights on what people are going to do, what they think, how they feel, and what they’re going to buy.”
Check out more about Share of Search and other findings from My Telescope’s research here. | https://cw33.com/lifestyle/food-and-drink/chick-fil-a-remains-nations-most-searched-fast-food-chain-while-texas-favorite-stays-home/ | 2022-07-21T18:09:47Z |
squawkbox@albanyherald.com
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has been forced to cancel her planned flight to Taiwan after China announced they have developed deadly surface-to-air vodka-seeking missiles.
squawkbox@albanyherald.com
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has been forced to cancel her planned flight to Taiwan after China announced they have developed deadly surface-to-air vodka-seeking missiles.
The Democrats’ so-called Inflation Reduction Act will not do anything to reduce the high inflation, it will impose more taxes on the low-income working class, making poor people even poorer.
You are wasting your time and space in this column on Pat-Riot. Stop feeding this narcissistic Trump want-to-be. Like others in the Kool-aid-fueled cult, he and they will deny knowledge in favor of answers from the Ouija board.
Obama and Biden kill terrorists in the Middle East. Trump takes money from Saudi Arabia.
Squawker, that’s a lie. The Democrats and their left-wing liberal piggy bank billionaire supporters are much more like Chairman Mao and his nasty bunch. Silencers of the truth and enslavers of free people for re-education. Sounds just like the current administration.
I walked outside this morning and the air seemed so fresh and invigorating, moreso than usual. Then I remembered, Pelosi is in Asia
Do what you enjoy and hang with those who make you smile.
We as a relatively small community are so fortunate to have institutions like the Albany Chorale, Theatre Albany and the Albany Symphony. Please support these groups; they provide so much entertainment in our community.
Without Will Smith, the Braves would not have won the World Series. Good luck to a good man and Braves hero.
Thank you, NAMI Albany for all the good work you do. While all these overnight “nonprofits” spring up to try and get their hands on some of the funds being handed out by state and national government, you folks just quietly go about doing your work of helping people with mental problems. You are a blessing to this community.
I, having criticized Pelosi, rightfully or wrongfully, am tempered by a well-written CNN article: “Opinion: Here’s a Taiwan chill pill for your Pelosi-induced anxiety” by Clarissa Wei. However, I remain concerned, and Washington is still crazy.
Nice, subtle article by Doug Porter. He doesn’t even live here anymore, but he’s obviously flabbergasted by the Historic Committee’s attempts to exert authority it is incapable of handling. These people have got theirs; why should they care if attempts to make the city better fail? Following their lead at the expense of progress is insane.
The city of Moultrie is putting in new restaurants. I hope they build a Hooters.
That’s very interesting Squawker, as I am well-known for holding Marjorie T. Green and Matt Gaetz in the same regard as Nancy Pelosi, Al Sharpton and Stacey Abrams: Political nut-jobs with no dignity who have proven by speaking that they surely do not belong in any elected office in America. The Patriot
When you start electing buffoons to serve in your local government, you get the kind of petty infighting like we’re seeing now in this ridiculous one-upsmanship over SPLOST and LOST. Left out is what’s best for the citizens; we could care less about the local politicians exiting the clown car.
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A receipt was sent to your email. | https://www.albanyherald.com/features/squawkbox/article_57b1037e-1332-11ed-a347-7bb48c6216ae.html | 2022-08-03T20:28:50Z |
SILVER SPRING, Md. , July 8, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration is providing an update on additional steps it has taken that will lead to more infant formula available in the U.S. under the agency's recent increased flexibilities.
Company (Product Origin): Care A2+ (Australia)
Product(s): Care A2+ 0-12 Months Infant Formula
Type of Formula: General
Estimated Quantity: 4.875 million cans (about 8.6 million pounds or about 121 million full-size, 8-ounce bottles)
Availability: Initial product will be shipped the first week of August with multiple shipments thereafter.
More Information and Where to Find the Products: The product will be distributed to as many as 20,000 retail locations nationwide for a 91% coverage of the population, including CVS and Rite Aid Drug Stores, Whole Foods Market, Kroger, HCA Healthcare, Publix Super Markets, Safeway, The Vitamin Shoppe, Duane Reade Convenience Store and Peapod Online Grocer.
The FDA is exercising enforcement discretion for the importation of the infant formula products listed above following the review of information provided pertaining to nutritional adequacy and safety, including microbiological testing, labeling and additional information about facility production and inspection history.
The agency is leveraging a number of flexibilities to bolster the supply of products that serve as the sole source of nutrition for many infants while ensuring the infant formula can be used safely and provides adequate nutrition. The FDA remains in further discussions with manufacturers and suppliers regarding additional supply to ensure there's adequate infant formula available wherever and whenever parents and caregivers need it.
The FDA issued guidance on May 16 that outlined a process by which the agency would not object to the importation of certain infant formula products intended for a foreign market or distribution in the U.S. of products manufactured here for export to foreign countries. This guidance also may provide flexibilities to those who manufacture infant formula products domestically and may be able to further increase the quantity of domestically-produced product for the U.S. market. The agency has posted a webpage that will be updated with information about additional products headed to the U.S.
Ongoing FDA Steps to Increase Availability of Safe, Nutritious Infant Formula
The agency's around-the-clock work as part of the all-of-government efforts has already begun to improve supply and availability. The agency expects that the measures and steps it is taking, and the resumption of production at the Abbott Nutrition's Sturgis, Mich., facility, will mean more and more supply is on the way or on store shelves moving forward.
The FDA continues to advise against making infant formulas at home or diluting formula. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to work with their child's health care provider for recommendations on changing feeding practices, if needed. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services also has additional information available at HHS.gov/formula, including information to help families find infant formula.
The agency also monitors online marketplaces for fraudulent products and works with major online retailers to remove violative and harmful products offered for sale on their sites. Additionally, since many of these fraudulent products originate overseas, the agency targets and examines these products at ports of entry. The FDA also monitors and follows up on various external signals such as consumer complaints about potential counterfeit and fraudulent products.
The FDA will continue to dedicate all available resources to help ensure that safe and nutritious infant formula products remain available for use in the U.S. and will keep the public informed of progress updates.
Additional Information:
- Infant Formula Information and Ongoing FDA Efforts to Increase Supply
- Enforcement Discretion to Manufacturers to Increase Infant Formula Supplies
- HHS.gov/formula
- HHS.gov/news
- FDA Investigation of Cronobacter Infections: Powdered Infant Formula (February 2022)
- Powdered Infant Formula Recall: What to Know
- CDC Information on Cronobacter Infection and Infants
Media Contact: FDA Office of Media Affairs, 301-796-4540
Consumer Inquiries: 888-723-3366
The FDA, an agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, protects the public health by assuring the safety, effectiveness, and security of human and veterinary drugs, vaccines and other biological products for human use, and medical devices. The agency also is responsible for the safety and security of our nation's food supply, cosmetics, dietary supplements, products that give off electronic radiation, and for regulating tobacco products.
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SOURCE U.S. Food and Drug Administration | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/07/08/fda-infant-formula-update-july-8-2022/ | 2022-07-08T20:53:40Z |
New breech-lock heat exchanger closure delivers exceptional operational performance and underscores Lummus' commitment to deliver innovative products and services throughout the lifecycle of refining and petrochemicals facilities
HOUSTON, June 17, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Lummus Technology, a global provider of process technologies and value-driven solutions, announced the launch of its Polaris™ breech-lock closure, a new technological upgrade applicable to its high-pressure heat exchanger equipment. This advanced design of breech-lock closure provides a host of operational benefits including safe, reliable and secure sealing under all conditions, a simplified assembly and easier maintenance.
"The Polaris breech-lock heat exchanger exemplifies our dedication to deliver innovation and operational performance for customers requiring new or retrofitted heat exchangers," said Rutger Theunissen, Chief Business Officer of Services and Supplies, Lummus Technology. "The new closure system allows for a wider range of operating conditions, increased unit sizes and capacities and reduces shut down times due to ease of use, while delivering the high reliability and safety our customers expect from Lummus."
To preview this technology and its benefits, Lummus will participate in a live webcast hosted by Hydrocarbon Processing on Tuesday, June 21, 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. CDT. You can attend the webcast by registering here.
The Polaris breech-lock design incorporates two new advanced features that elevate its performance above traditional breech-lock closures under today's stringent operational environments. The ProSeal™ system, a new gasket loading design, requires no internal split ring, flange or bolts for simplified fabrication, assembly and disassembly. The load to the seal is efficiently distributed and maintained under a wider range of operating conditions. The ProSeal system further protects the components from damage and deformation caused by plant upsets and differential thermal expansion.
Complementing the new sealing system is the ProLock™ closure system, an advanced securing mechanism using a special appliance that is simpler and safer to operate. The design allows easy access to all threads for maintenance, lubrication and repair, and significantly reduces the time when inserting and removing the closing plug.
High-pressure exchangers with breech-lock or screw-plug type closures are used in the hydroprocessing industry, primarily for hydrocracking, hydrotreating, lube oil, slurry and residue upgrade processing. Applications include use in reactor feeds and effluent exchangers, recycle gas exchangers, effluent recovery and gas recovery exchangers and other applications in gas compression and fertilizer processes.
Lummus Technology has supplied heat transfer equipment to the process and power industries worldwide for more than 75 years. Specializing in heat transfer systems for critical process environments, Lummus has produced industry leading technology for fired heaters, including the SRT™ pyrolysis furnace, and heat exchangers, including the HELIXCHANGER™ heat exchanger and LABLEX™ Lummus advanced breech-lock exchanger.
Lummus Technology is the global leader in developing process technologies that make modern life possible and focus on a more sustainable, low carbon future. Lummus is a master licensor of clean energy, petrochemical, refining, gas processing and renewable technologies, and a supplier of catalysts, proprietary equipment, digitalization and related lifecycle services to customers worldwide. To learn more about Lummus, visit www.LummusTechnology.com.
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SOURCE Lummus Technology, LLC | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/06/17/lummus-technology-launches-next-generation-breech-lock-high-pressure-heat-exchanger-closure/ | 2022-06-17T15:26:44Z |
TEL AVIV, Israel and ZURICH, June 30, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- SHL Telemedicine Ltd. (SIX Swiss Exchange: SHLTN) ("SHL"), a leading provider and developer of advanced personal telemedicine solutions, announced today that Mr. Ehud Barak is to be appointed as Co- Chairman of SHL Telemedicine.
Ehud Barak, incoming Co-Chairman of SHL: "I am delighted to join SHL's senior management team. As a results of global change, telemedicine has become the standard of care in the way which medical services are provided. SHL has a proven technology, know-how, experience, and strategic cooperation with major health care institutes such as Mayo Clinic, CVS and Henry Schein in the US as well as AOK Bayern and BARMER in Germany. SHL is well positioned to improve the lives of many patients worldwide, and the way that medical services are being consumed. I intend to join SHL's international growth execution efforts mainly in the US and Germany and take part in SHL's senior management team activities as a world leader in the telemedicine field."
Yariv Alroy, Chairman of SHL's board: "SHL greets Mr. Barak and is excited about his appointment as a Co-Chairman of SHL. We are convinced that Mr. Barak's engagement will support the execution and realization of our strategic global vision."
Mr. Baraks' terms of engagement will be brought for approval by a Special General Meeting of the Shareholders ("SGM"), which will be summoned within the next days. Following the approval of the terms by the SGM, the board will appoint the new Co-Chairman.
Further information
Fabienne Farner, IRF, Phone: +41 43 244 81 42 farner@irf-reputation.ch
About SHL Telemedicine
SHL Telemedicine is engaged in developing and marketing personal telemedicine systems and the provision of medical call center services, with a focus on cardiovascular and related diseases, to end users and to the healthcare community. SHL Telemedicine offers its services and personal telemedicine devices to subscribers utilizing telephonic and Internet communication technology. SHL is listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange (SHLTN, ISIN: IL0010855885, Security No.: 1128957). For more information, please visit our web site at www.shl-telemedicine.com.
Some of the information contained in this press release contains forward-looking statements. Readers are cautioned that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties, and that actual results may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors. SHL Telemedicine undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements.
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SOURCE SHL Telemedicine Ltd. | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/06/30/former-prime-minister-israel-ehud-barak-be-appointed-co-chairman-leading-partner-shls-global-growth/ | 2022-06-30T12:43:32Z |
LINCOLN, Neb., May 19, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- GolfStatus, the leading technology platform for golf fundraisers, is pleased to announce a partnership with Charity Golf International, the worldwide leader in on-course fundraising and entertainment. The partnership will connect GolfStatus clients and nonprofit golf event organizers to Charity Golf International's network of long drive golf professionals to provide on-course entertainment and help raise more money for their organization or cause.
GolfStatus's golf event management tech streamlines golf fundraisers, saving organizers time and effort, with built-in fundraising tools to help nonprofits raise more mission-critical dollars. The company's online Marketplace is a one-stop shop of trusted vendors providing goods and services for golf fundraisers and features a variety of partners, including Charity Golf International.
"GolfStatus's mission is to help nonprofits take the guesswork out of their golf events, and ultimately, raise more money for their cause," said Ashley Watson, director of marketing at GolfStatus. "Our partnership with Charity Golf International gives tournament organizers yet another option to enhance its tournament experience and generate additional revenue."
"We're excited to partner with GolfStatus and help even more nonprofits and charities get more out of their golf fundraisers," said Chris Carey, Owner of Charity Golf International. "Charity Golf International has helped its nonprofit partners raise over $75 million since 2012. Our proven model increases donations and is 100% risk free to charities."
Find out more about Charity Golf International and other Marketplace vendors by visiting golfstatus.org/marketplace.
About GolfStatus
GolfStatus is golf's premier tournament management solution and golfer engagement platform. Its full-service event management software streamlines outings from start to finish, yielding professional, high-end events while also saving time and improving the event experience for golfers, sponsors, and golf facilities. Through GolfStatus.org, its powerful technology is accessible to nonprofits to streamline golf fundraisers and help event organizers use them to engage more supporters, raise more mission-critical funds, drive impact, and do more good. Visit www.golfstatus.org.
About Charity Golf International
Charity Golf International, founded in 2012, is the worldwide leader in on-course fundraising and entertainment with over 40 World Long Drive Golf Professionals available across the United States and Canada. Charity Golf International has helped over 14,000 golf events raise more than $75 million through its on-course entertainment and fundraising around the world, offering zero-risk or out of pocket costs to the charity using their service while providing guaranteed revenue for the day. Visit www.charitygolfintl.com.
Media Contact:
Ashley Watson
ashley@golfstatus.com
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SOURCE GolfStatus | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/05/19/golfstatus-announces-partnership-with-charity-golf-international-serve-charity-golf-tournaments/ | 2022-05-19T21:45:43Z |
Chicago-area July 4 parade attack suspect pleads not guilty
WAUKEGAN, Ill. (AP) — The man accused of killing seven people and wounding dozens more in a shooting at an Independence Day parade in suburban Chicago pleaded not guilty on Wednesday, a week after prosecutors announced he faces 117 felony counts in the attack.
Robert E. Crimo III appeared for a brief hearing Wednesday in Lake County’s circuit court to enter a formal plea to the charges — 21 counts of first-degree murder, 48 counts of attempted murder and 48 counts of aggravated battery representing those killed and wounded during the parade in Highland Park.
Crimo wore a COVID-19 face mask throughout the 10-minute arraignment and repeatedly told Judge Victoria Rossetti that he understood the charges and potential penalties he faces, including life imprisonment.
Lake County prosecutors in late July announced that a grand jury had indicted Crimo on the charges. The prosecutors had previously filed seven murder charges against the 21-year-old in the days following the shooting.
The multiple first-degree murder charges allege Crimo intended to kill, caused death or great bodily harm and took action with a strong probability of causing death or great bodily harm on the seven people who died.
A representative for the county public defenders office, which is representing Crimo, has said the office does not comment publicly on any cases. An attorney with the office entered Crimo’s not guilty plea during Wednesday’s court appearance.
Prosecutors have said Crimo admitted to the shooting once police arrested him following an hourslong search for the gunman who opened fire from the rooftop of a building along the parade route.
Authorities have said the wounded range in age from 8 to their 80s, including an 8-year-old boy who was paralyzed from the waist down when the shooting severed his spine.
In comments delivered after the hearing, Lake County State’s Attorney Eric Rinehart declined to say whether Crimo could face additional charges and said he would not comment on whether Crimo’s parents could be charged. Some people have questioned why Crimo’s parents apparently supported his interest in guns only months after he reportedly threatened suicide and violence.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | https://www.wibw.com/2022/08/03/chicago-area-july-4-parade-attack-suspect-pleads-not-guilty/ | 2022-08-03T17:24:11Z |
Gift Renews Support for the Kern National Network for Caring and Character in Medicine and the Kern Institute at the Medical College of Wisconsin
MILWAUKEE, June 23, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Kern Family Foundation is renewing its support for making transformational advancements in educating medical students and in the medical profession with a $50 million gift to the Medical College of Wisconsin (MCW). The gift accelerates efforts by the Kern National Network for Caring and Character in Medicine and the Robert D. and Patricia E. Kern Institute for the Transformation of Medical Education.
"The Foundation is delighted to renew our support in the visionary leadership at the Medical College of Wisconsin and the teams working to integrate character, caring, practical wisdom, and flourishing into the training of physicians and other health professionals," said James Rahn, president of the Kern Family Foundation.
"Since their launch in 2017, the Kern Institute has become a catalyst for transformation within MCW and a recognized thought leader in medical education, while the Kern National Network has begun to coalesce a network of leaders and institutions that is poised to grow and impact the practice of medicine, the lives of healthcare professionals and the communities they serve," said Rahn.
"This transformational investment will help us reshape the profession of medicine to benefit learners, physicians, and their patients," said John R. Raymond, Sr., MD, president and CEO of MCW. "The generosity and leadership of the Kern Family Foundation supports our shared commitment to driving fundamental changes to how patients and families receive medical care and moves us further toward our goal of advancing health for all through human flourishing, character and caring."
The $50 million gift designates $10 million as a matching opportunity to inspire additional support from philanthropists and foundations with an interest in transforming medical education and the profession. Total giving from the Kern family and the Kern Family Foundation for the Kern Institute and the Kern National Network now stands at $87.9 million, including a $37.9 million investment in 2017 to launch the effort.
The Kern Institute is dedicated to transforming faculty, students, and curriculum, as well as fostering culture and systems change in medical education. The Kern National Network is catalyzing national leaders to transform clinical learning and practice environments, as well as influencing policy and culture change through its integrated framework for character, caring, practical wisdom and flourishing in medicine.
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SOURCE Medical College of Wisconsin | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/06/23/kern-family-foundation-invests-50-million-transform-medical-education-profession-medicine/ | 2022-06-23T17:54:00Z |
MINNETONKA, Minn., Aug. 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Table Trac Inc (OTCQX: TBTC) received a Nevada Gaming Approval for its CasinoTrac Casino management System in July 2017. Over the ensuing five years, Casinos throughout the State of Nevada have chosen Table Trac's CasinoTrac for slot floor online operations, ticketing, NCEP free play, slot revenue accounting, players club, marketing, promotional kiosk and data analytics solution for its simple reliable operation and value.
Now, Table Trac/CasinoTrac has achieved the distinction of having its system going into the biggest gaming jurisdiction in the world…Las Vegas. Table Trac has contracted with two popular, venerable and award-winning casinos in "Vegas", who's highly respected owners have decades of successful gaming experience. The owners have expressed their excitement about working with CasinoTrac and we feel that they will become a showplace reference for further expansion in the "Gaming Capital of the World."
Chad Hoehne, President of Table Trac, Inc. said, "Our company's work to design, build, install and support casino clients with a quality CMS system solution is being rewarded all over the USA and in over 13 countries, but it is especially gratifying the begin service in the world's largest gaming market."
About Table Trac, Inc.
Founded in 1995, Table Trac, Inc. designs, develops and sells casino information and management systems. The company has over 270 systems installed in casinos worldwide. More information is available at http://www.tabletrac.com/.
Forward Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements that involve numerous risks and uncertainties. Actual results, performance or achievements could differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements as a result of certain factors, including those set forth in the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
For more information:
Robert Siqveland
Table Trac, Inc.
952-548-8877
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SOURCE Table Trac, Inc. | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/08/11/table-trac-casinotrac-enters-las-vegas-market/ | 2022-08-11T18:21:57Z |
CHANDIGARH, India, Aug. 25, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Harvesting Farmer Network (HFN), a leading agriculture technology platform in India, has raised US$4 million from Social Capital, a Silicon Valley-based technology investment firm managed by Chamath Palihapitiya. This is the first institutional round raised by HFN, which will be used to reach the more than 120 million smallholder farmers across India, as well as explore opportunities in India's rural markets.
Harvesting Farmer Network helps smallholder farmers (defined by the UN as a farmer owning less than 2 hectares of land) in India to increase their income by empowering them with a collective bargaining platform. Through HFN's trusted platform, farmers are able to easily buy high-quality and affordable farm inputs, access financial services such as loans and insurance, as well as sell their crops to national and international customers – all luxuries typically only available to large-scale farms – enabling them to scale and grow their businesses.
Founded by Ruchit Garg during the Covid-19 pandemic, HFN was created to reduce the friction between farmers and buyers, initially by enabling them to connect directly on Twitter. Since then, more than US$500 million of crops, consisting of over 360 crop varieties, have been listed on HFN's digital platform from every state across India. These crops have been sold domestically as well as to international markets. A global agricultural powerhouse, India produces more than $275 billion of crops annually.
As of August 2022, more than 3.7 million farmers are digitally connected to the HFN platform, and as a result of partnering with HFN, farmers have increased their crop earnings by up to 2.5X due to HFN's more efficient and consolidated supply chain. Recently, many forward-thinking farmers have even launched offline centres known as "HFN Kisan Centres" ("kisan" translates to farmer from Hindi) to help fellow local farmers sell their crops and buy staple inputs such as seeds and fertilizer at affordable prices.
Ruchit G Garg, Founder CEO of HFN, said: "At HFN, our goal is to help farmers realize their full potential by reducing the plethora of inefficiencies across the agriculture value chain. Simple and widely-available technologies like WhatsApp and Twitter have allowed us to create massive data-driven farmer co-operatives, which allows farmers to negotiate better rates for farm inputs and more competitive prices for outputs. Our farmer-first approach has enabled us to build unique trust with our farmer-partners, giving us a strong foundation for long-term growth. With this new backing from Social Capital, we will be able to accelerate our growth and further scale our platform as we look to give India's 120 million smallholder farmers the opportunities they deserve."
Jay Zaveri, Partner at Social Capital, said: "In our world of increasingly complex geopolitics and amidst a rapidly deteriorating climate crisis, there is an urgent need for increased and better food security. India is one of the bread baskets of the world and we're excited to partner with HFN to bring a safe, secure, and empowering platform to the more than 120 million smallholder farmers across India. Our goal is to enable Indian households to access high-quality farm produce and for farmers to build a profitable livelihood through HFN."
HFN plans to use the new funding to rapidly expand its footprint across India, and over the next 12 months, it expects to connect farmers in every single one of India's 708 districts across the country.
About Harvesting Farmer Network (HFN)
Harvesting Farmer Network (HFN) is based in Chandigarh, India. The company was founded by Ruchit G Garg, who after working in the United States for over a decade with the likes of Microsoft, moved to India to work with smallholder farmers. As of August 2022, more than 3.7 million farmers in India are connected with HFN over various digital platforms across every state in India, including farmers from far east areas like Nagaland to northern regions like Pulwama J&K as well as Kutch Gujarat.
About Social Capital
At Social Capital, we make big bets on transformational ideas, technology, and people. We strategically invest in smart, profit-minded opportunities and forward-thinking social investments that have the potential to shape a better future. We believe in the outsized potential of for-profit businesses to drive impact in the world. We aim to set a new standard for what capitalism can be.
To learn more about Social Capital, visit www.socialcapital.com.
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SOURCE Harvesting Farmer Network (HFN) | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/08/25/leading-agriculture-technology-platform-harvesting-farmer-network-hfn-raises-us4-million-social-capital/ | 2022-08-25T20:57:35Z |
Coca-Cola releases new ‘pixel flavored’ drink
(CNN) – Coke lovers, there is a new flavor. And it’s a little weird.
It’s dubbed Coca-Cola Zero Sugar Byte, and it’s supposed to taste like pixels.
The company says it makes the intangible taste of a pixel tangible, featuring bright elements up front and a refreshing finish, according to Coca-Cola.
The “byte” beverage is all about gaming.
The new product has existed longer online than in real life. It first appeared in late March on an island in the Fortnite video game.
Just last month, the company announced a limited edition flavor called Coca-Cola Starlight, a red version of the iconic soda with flavor “inspired by space.”
U.S. Customers can buy Byte online starting May 2, while supplies last. It’s available only in a two-pack and it will set you back around $15.
Copyright 2022 CNN Newsource. All rights reserved. | https://www.wibw.com/2022/04/04/coca-cola-releases-new-pixel-flavored-drink/ | 2022-04-04T17:33:25Z |
NEW YORK, Sept. 12, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- This fall, high-growth clear aligner challenger Candid is stacking its leadership team, with dental giants Dr. Lou Shuman coming on as Executive Consultant and Chief Development Officer and Dr. Brian Gray as Chief Dental Officer. They join Dr. Ben Miraglia DDS, VP of GP Clinical Education at Candid Academy as major leadership additions. Under the guidance of the new leadership team, Candid will be releasing a host of new features and enhancements vaulting the Orthodontics as a Service company ahead of many of its competitors.
After shuttering its direct-to-consumer clear aligner business in December 2021 and pivoting into a full provider-based model, Candid has grown its provider base over 500% in 2022.
New Executive Consultant and Chief Development Officer Lou Shuman DMD, CAGS is the CEO and founder of Cellerant Consulting and an expert in growing dental technology companies. He was immediately attracted to Candid's tech-first Orthodontics as a Service model of partnership and support.
"Candid's innovations, technology partnerships, and delivery of a total support model is exactly what general practitioners need right now and orthodontists will benefit by in the near future," says Shuman. "Candid's commitment to state-of-the-art technology as witnessed by their new massive fabrication facility, superb management team, and focus on aligner quality, already make Candid a great choice for dentists, and our planned clinical upgrades will soon make that choice even easier."
Known for having trained nearly 30,000 dentists in clear aligner therapy over the last two decades, new Chief Dental Officer Dr. Brian Gray thinks Candid is uniquely positioned to meet the general practitioner where they are.
"I'm joining Candid because it feels like a new era in clear aligners," says Gray. "As a clinical evaluator, I've tried nearly every clear aligner product out there. Candid has unlocked the convenience and predictability that clinicians have been after for years, by empowering dentists with the deep clinical knowledge to protect their reputations while giving patients the safe, effective treatment they need."
Candid rounds out its leadership upgrade with a host of new Candid Academy Faculty members, with Drs. Tom Shannon and Geoffrey Skinner joining visionaries like Drs. Kalli Hale, and Craig Spodak.
For CEO Nick Greenfield, Candid is on the road to becoming the practitioner's choice for clear aligners.
"We're on a similar trajectory to a company like Tesla," says Greenfield. "Amazing product, top-flight tech, and outstanding design, but early Teslas could only go 100 miles on a charge. This massive tech enhancement means Candid can now take partner practices so much farther—with even more exciting developments on the horizon."
Dr. Gray concurs that Candid's expert-led Orthodontics as a Service model is poised to grab significant market share.
"I see so much in the works that I can't wait to share with my patients and colleagues," says Gray. "Candid has developed a number of game-changing product enhancements and techniques that lead the clear aligner segment into a new era. I see it as Ortho 3.0, and am excited to be part of this transformational change in dental health care."
Dr. Shuman sees even more growth for Candid on the horizon.
"Sitting in a room with Candid leadership reminded me of my work with clear aligners 20 years ago," he says, "young, brilliant visionaries coming together to create a technique poised to transform the market."
Candid offers a cutting-edge Orthodontics as a Service system that makes treatment accessible and affordable for doctors and patients. Since 2017, Candid has brought high-quality orthodontic care and patient support to dental practices and dental service organizations across the United States.
Related Links
Dr. Brian Gray has been a leader in new dental technologies for nearly four decades. He is a Master in the Academy of General Dentistry and a fellow in five other academies. He is a member of The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and The American Academy of Restorative Dentistry. Dr. Gray was one of the first dentists to use clear aligners to change people's smiles and has taught the technique to more than 30,000 doctors over the past 23 years. As an independent clinical evaluator, researcher and consultant, Dr. Gray has contributed to the development and delivery of hundreds of products used in the dental profession on a daily basis. Dr. Gray has given full-day presentations at over 30 dental schools, the Dawson Academy, the Kois Center and for over twenty years at the LD Pankey Institute, where he is currently a faculty member. Dr. Gray is a sought-after contributor to a number of dental journals, national periodicals, magazines, podcasts, and TV shows. He maintains a private, fee-for-service practice in Washington DC.
Lou Shuman, DMD, CAGS, is an orthodontist and founder and CEO of Cellerant Consulting Group, dentistry's leader in growing companies of all sizes currently serving over 40 companies. He is also co-founder of LightForce Orthodontics that created the world's first fully customized ceramic 3D printed orthodontic bracket and a venturer-in-residence at the Harvard i-Lab. He also served as Vice President of Clinical Education and Strategic Relations at Align Technology for 7 years. He is the recipient of the 2021 Global Summits Institute's Doctor-to-Doctor World's Top 100 Doctors and the Denobi Pinnacle Achievement Award that recognizes an individual whose leadership and ongoing contributions have dramatically impacted the dental profession. Dr. Shuman currently also has three national columns devoted to technology in Dental Economics, Dental Products Report, and Oral Health Canada journals.
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SOURCE Candid | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/09/12/candid-reloads-leadership-team-with-industry-giants-significantly-enhances-its-clinical-capabilities/ | 2022-09-12T18:19:30Z |
DELRAY BEACH, Fla., Aug. 19, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- UpHealth, Inc. ("UpHealth" or the "Company") (NYSE: UPH), a global digital health company delivering technology platforms, infrastructure, and services to modernize care delivery and health management, announced today that it has closed its previously announced sale of $67.5 million in aggregate principal amount of a new series of variable rate convertible senior secured notes due December 15, 2025 (the "2025 Notes") in a private placement transaction. The transaction raised approximately $22.5 million in gross cash proceeds after paying for a repurchase of $45.0 million principal amount of its 6.25% convertible senior notes due 2026. The 2025 Notes are convertible into shares of UpHealth common stock at a conversion price of $1.75 per share, which represented a 101% premium over the closing price of UpHealth's common stock on August 12, 2022, the date the subscription agreements providing for the sale of the 2025 Notes were executed.
The 2025 Notes were offered in a private placement under Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"), and, along with the shares of common stock underlying the 2025 Notes, have not been registered under the Securities Act or applicable state securities laws. Accordingly, the 2025 Notes and the underlying shares of common stock may not be offered, sold, pledged or otherwise transferred except to a qualified institutional buyer (within the meaning Rule 144A under the Securities Act) pursuant to an effective Securities Act registration statement or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act and applicable state securities laws.
Oppenheimer & Co Inc. served as exclusive placement agent for the 2025 Notes.
This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to the registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction.
UpHealth is a global digital health company that delivers digital-first technology, infrastructure and services to dramatically improve how healthcare is delivered and managed. The UpHealth platform creates digitally enabled "care communities" that improve access and achieve better patient outcomes at lower cost, through digital health solutions and interoperability tools that serve patients wherever they are, in their native language. UpHealth's clients include global governments, health plans, healthcare providers and community-based organizations. For more information, please visit https://uphealthinc.com and follow us at @UpHealthInc on Twitter and UpHealth Inc on LinkedIn.
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of U.S. federal securities laws. Such forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding payments pursuant to the terms of UpHealth's debt obligations and the conversion or maturity of such debt. Any statements contained herein that are not statements of historical fact may be deemed to be forward-looking statements. In addition, any statements that refer to projections, forecasts, or other characterizations of future events or circumstances, including any underlying assumptions, are forward-looking statements. The words "anticipate," "believe," "continue," "could," "estimate," "expect," "intends," "may," "might," "plan," "possible," "potential," "predict," "project," "should," "would" and similar expressions may identify forward-looking statements, but the absence of these words does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are based on certain assumptions and analyses made by the management of UpHealth in light of their respective experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions, and expected future developments and their potential effects on UpHealth as well as other factors they believe are appropriate in the circumstances. There can be no assurance that future developments affecting UpHealth will be those anticipated. These forward-looking statements involve a number of risks, uncertainties (some of which are beyond the control of the parties), or other assumptions that may cause actual results or performance to be materially different from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements, including the ability of UpHealth to service or otherwise pay its debt obligations, the mix of services utilized by UpHealth's customers and such customers' needs for these services, market acceptance of new service offerings, the ability of UpHealth to expand what it does for existing customers as well as to add new customers, that UpHealth will have sufficient capital to operate as anticipated, and the impact that the novel coronavirus and the illness, COVID-19, that it causes, as well as government responses to deal with the spread of this illness and the reopening of economies that have been closed as part of these responses, may have on UpHealth's operations, the demand for UpHealth's products, global supply chains and economic activity in general. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize or should any of the assumptions being made prove incorrect, actual results may vary in material respects from those projected in these forward-looking statements. We undertake no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as may be required under applicable securities laws.
Shannon Devine (MZ North America)
Managing Director
203-741-8811
UPH@mzgroup.us
Kelsie Aziz (Ketchum)
Vice President, Financial Communications
972-408-7103
kelsie.aziz@Ketchum.com
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SOURCE UpHealth, Inc. | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/08/19/uphealth-announces-closing-675-million-convertible-debt-financing/ | 2022-08-19T22:51:45Z |
KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — Europe’s largest nuclear plant has been reconnected to Ukraine’s electricity grid, allowing engineers to shut down its last operational reactor in an attempt to avoid a radiation disaster as fighting rages in the area.
The six-reactor Zaporizhzhia plant lost its outside source of power a week ago after all its power lines were disconnected as a result of shelling. It was operating in “island mode” for several days, generating electricity for crucial cooling systems from its only remaining operational reactor.
Nuclear operator Energoatom said one of those power lines was restored “to its operational capacity” late Saturday, making it possible to run the plant’s safety and other systems on electricity from the power system of Ukraine.
“Therefore, a decision was made to shut down power unit No. 6 and transfer it to the safest state – cold shutdown,” the company said in a statement.
Energoatom said the risk remains high that outside power is cut again, in which case the plant would have to fire up emergency diesel generators to keep the reactors cool and prevent a nuclear meltdown. The company’s chief told The Associated Press on Thursday that the plant only has diesel fuel for 10 days.
The plant, one of the 10 biggest atomic power stations in the world, has been occupied by Russian forces since the early stages of the war. Ukraine and Russia have blamed each other for shelling around the plant that has damaged the power lines connecting it to the grid.
Energoatom renewed its appeal for Russian forces to leave the Zaporizhzhia plant and allow for the creation of a “demilitarized zone” around it.
The International Atomic Energy Agency, the U.N. nuclear watchdog which has two experts at the plant, confirmed to the AP on Sunday that external power has been restored at Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant.
“After yesterday’s restoration of the power line – which connects the ZNPP to the switchyard of a nearby thermal power station – the operator of the ZNPP this morning shut down its last operating reactor, which over the past week had been providing the plant with the required power after it was disconnected from the grid,” the IAEA said in an emailed statement. “IAEA staff present at the ZNPP were informed this morning about these new developments, which were also confirmed by Ukraine.”
IAEA Director-General Rafael Grossi has called for a safe zone around the plant to avert a disaster.
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Jon Gambrell and Hanna Ahrirova contributed to this report.
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Follow the AP’s coverage of the war at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine | https://cw33.com/business/ap-business/ap-outside-power-restored-zaporizhzhia-nuke-plant-shuts-down/ | 2022-09-11T15:47:22Z |
Consolidated Results of Operations, As Reported and As Adjusted – Three-month periods ended June 30, 2022 and 2021:
KING OF PRUSSIA, Pa., July 25, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Universal Health Services, Inc. (NYSE: UHS) announced today that its reported net income attributable to UHS was $164.1 million, or $2.20 per diluted share, during the second quarter of 2022, as compared to $325.0 million, or $3.79 per diluted share, during the second quarter of 2021. Net revenues increased by 3.9% to $3.323 billion during the second quarter of 2022 as compared to $3.198 billion during the second quarter of 2021.
As reflected on the Schedule of Non-GAAP Supplemental Information ("Supplemental Schedule"), our adjusted net income attributable to UHS during the second quarter of 2022 was $163.9 million, or $2.20 per diluted share, as compared to $322.3 million, or $3.76 per diluted share, during the second quarter of 2021.
Included in our reported and adjusted net income attributable to UHS during the three and six-month periods ended June 30, 2021 was a net favorable after-tax impact of approximately $29.8 million, or $.35 per diluted share, from the following: (i) a favorable after-tax impact of $42.3 million, or $.49 per diluted share, resulting from approximately $55 million of revenues recorded during the second quarter of 2021 in connection with the Kentucky Medicaid managed care hospital rate increase program (covering the period of July 1, 2020 to June 30, 2021); (ii) an unfavorable after-tax impact of approximately $27.2 million, or $.32 per diluted share, resulting from a $36 million increase to our reserves for self-insured professional and general liability claims, and; (iii) an aggregate favorable after-tax impact of $14.6 million, or $.17 per diluted share, resulting from commercial insurance proceeds of approximately $19 million received during the second quarter of 2021 in connection with a previously incurred information technology incident and the COVID-19 pandemic.
As calculated on the attached Supplemental Schedule, our earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation & amortization ("EBITDA net of NCI", NCI is net income attributable to noncontrolling interests), was $384.5 million during the second quarter of 2022, as compared to $581.8 million during the second quarter of 2021. Our adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation & amortization ("Adjusted EBITDA net of NCI"), which excludes the impact of other (income) expense, net, was $382.6 million during the second quarter of 2022, as compared to $572.7 million during the second quarter of 2021.
Consolidated Results of Operations, As Reported and As Adjusted – Six-month periods ended June 30, 2022 and 2021:
Reported net income attributable to UHS was $318.0 million, or $4.22 per diluted share, during the first six months 2022, as compared to $534.1 million, or $6.22 per diluted share, during the first six months of 2021. Net revenues increased by 6.5% to $6.616 billion during the first six months of 2022 as compared to $6.211 billion during the comparable period of 2021.
As reflected on the Supplemental Schedule, our adjusted net income attributable to UHS during the six-month period ended June 30, 2022 was $327.4 million, or $4.35 per diluted share, as compared to $532.4 million, or $6.20 per diluted share, during the six-month period ended June 30, 2021.
As reflected on the Supplemental Schedule, included in our reported results during the first six months of 2022, was an unfavorable after-tax unrealized loss of $9.4 million, or $.13 per diluted share, ($12.3 million pre-tax which is included in "Other (income) expense, net"), resulting from a decrease in the market value of certain equity securities.
As reflected on the Supplemental Schedule, included in our reported results during the six-month period ended June 30, 2021, was a net aggregate favorable after-tax impact of $1.7 million, or $.02 per diluted share, consisting of the following: (i) an after-tax unrealized loss of $0.5 million, or $.01 per diluted share, resulting from a decrease in the market value of certain marketable securities, and; (ii) a favorable after-tax impact of $2.2 million, or $.03 per diluted share, resulting from ASU 2016-09, "Compensation-Stock Compensation (Topic 718): Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting" ("ASU 2016-09").
As calculated on the attached Supplemental Schedule, our EBITDA net of NCI was $752.9 million during the first six months of 2022, as compared to $1.008 billion during the first six months of 2021. Our Adjusted EBITDA net of NCI was $762.1 million during the first six months of 2022, as compared to $999.8 million during the first six months of 2021.
Acute Care Services – Three and six-month periods ended June 30, 2022 and 2021:
During the second quarter of 2022, at our acute care hospitals owned during both periods ("same facility basis"), adjusted admissions (adjusted for outpatient activity) decreased by 0.7% while adjusted patient days increased by 1.8%, as compared to the second quarter of 2021. At these facilities, during the second quarter of 2022, net revenue per adjusted admission increased by 2.5% while net revenue per adjusted patient day remained unchanged, as compared to the second quarter of 2021. Net revenues generated from our acute care services on a same facility basis increased by 3.3% during the second quarter of 2022, as compared to the second quarter of 2021.
As previously disclosed in our update on operating results for the second quarter of 2022 and revision of 2022 full year guidance, as announced on June 30, 2022, our acute care hospitals experienced a significant decline in COVID-related patients during the second quarter of 2022, as compared to the first quarter of 2022. The decrease in COVID-related patient volumes during the second quarter of 2022 was not offset by an equivalent increase in non-COVID-related patients resulting in significant shortfalls in revenues and earnings as compared to our original forecasts the quarter. Although the decreased patient volumes at our acute care hospitals has relieved some of the staffing shortages and related cost escalations previously experienced at those facilities, recovery from the effects of the labor pressures has been occurring at a somewhat slower pace than expected.
During the six-month period ended June 30, 2022, at our acute care hospitals on a same facility basis, adjusted admissions increased by 2.4% while adjusted patient days increased by 3.6%, as compared to the comparable six-month period of 2021. At these facilities, during the first six months of 2022, net revenue per adjusted admission increased by 2.9% while net revenue per adjusted patient day increased by 1.6%, as compared to the comparable six-month period of 2021. Net revenues generated from our acute care services on a same facility basis increased by 6.5% during the first six months of 2022, as compared to the comparable six-month period of 2021.
Behavioral Health Care Services – Three and six-month periods ended June 30, 2022 and 2021:
During the second quarter of 2022, at behavioral health care facilities on a same facility basis, adjusted admissions decreased by 0.1% while adjusted patient days increased by 0.7%, as compared to the second quarter of 2021. At these facilities, during the second quarter of 2022, net revenue per adjusted admission increased by 2.6% and net revenue per adjusted patient day increased by 1.8%, as compared to the second quarter of 2021. Net revenues generated from our behavioral health care services increased by 0.5% during the second quarter of 2022, as compared to the second quarter of 2021.
During the six-month period ended June 30, 2022, at behavioral health care facilities on a same facility basis, adjusted admissions decreased by 1.0% while adjusted patient days decreased by 0.3%, as compared to the comparable six-month period of 2021. At these facilities, during the first six months of 2022, net revenue per adjusted admission increased by 4.2% and net revenue per adjusted patient day increased by 3.4%, as compared to the comparable six-month period of 2021. Net revenues generated from our behavioral health care services increased by 2.1% during the first six months of 2022, as compared to the comparable period of 2021.
COVID-19 and Staffing Shortage
The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which began during the second half of March, 2020, has had a material effect on our operations and financial results since that time. The length and extent of the disruptions caused by the COVID‑19 pandemic are currently unknown; however, we expect such disruptions to continue during the remainder of 2022. Since the future volumes and severity of COVID-19 patients remain highly uncertain and subject to change, including potential increases in future COVID-19 patient volumes caused by new variants of the virus, as well as related pressures on staffing and wage rates, we are not able to fully quantify the impact that these factors will have on our future financial results. However, developments related to the COVID-19 pandemic could continue to materially affect our financial performance during the remainder of 2022.
The nationwide shortage of nurses and other clinical staff and support personnel has been a significant operating issue facing us and other healthcare providers. Like others in the healthcare industry, we continue to experience a shortage of nurses and other clinical staff and support personnel at our acute care and behavioral health care hospitals in many geographic areas. In some areas, the labor scarcity is putting a strain on our resources and staff, which has required us to utilize higher‑cost temporary labor and pay premiums above standard compensation for essential workers. This staffing shortage has required us to hire expensive temporary personnel and/or enhance wages and benefits to recruit and retain nurses and other clinical staff and support personnel. At certain facilities, particularly within our behavioral health care segment, we have been unable to fill all vacant positions and, consequently, have been required to limit patient volumes. These factors, which had a material unfavorable impact on our results of operations during the first six months of 2022, are expected to have an unfavorable material impact on our results of operations during the remainder of 2022.
However, as previously disclosed on June 30, 2022, our revised operating results forecast for the balance of 2022 assumes that staffing vacancies and the corresponding premium pay expenditures will continue to sequentially decline in the second half of the year and that non-COVID patient volumes will incrementally improve, although both at a slower pace than our original forecast anticipated. We believe these assumptions will be bolstered by our continuing recruitment and retention initiatives, by changes to our historical patient care models, by other cost cutting measures and by aggressive contractual negotiations and renegotiations with our managed care payers.
Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities and Liquidity:
Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities:
During the six-month period ended June 30, 2022, our net cash provided by operating activities was $478 million as compared to $119 million during the comparable six-month period of 2021. The $359 million net increase in our net cash provided by operating activities during the first six months of 2022, as compared to the first six months of 2021, was due to: (i) a favorable change of $695 million resulting from the early return of Medicare accelerated payments which were received during 2020 and repaid during the first quarter of 2021, partially offset by; (ii) an unfavorable change of $199 million resulting from a decrease in net income plus depreciation and amortization expense, stock-based compensation expense, gain/loss on sales of assets and businesses, and provision for asset impairment; (iii) an unfavorable change of $102 million from other working capital accounts due primarily to the timing of disbursements for accrued expenses, accounts payable and accrued compensation, and; (iv) $35 million of other combined net unfavorable changes.
Liquidity:
As of June 30, 2022, we had $1.056 billion of aggregate available borrowing capacity pursuant to our $1.2 billion revolving credit facility, net of outstanding borrowings and letters of credit. In June, 2022, we entered into an amendment to our credit agreement which, among other things, added a new incremental tranche A term loan facility in the aggregate principal amount of $700 million. The net proceeds generated from the incremental tranche A term loan facility were used to repay a portion of the borrowings that were previously outstanding under our $1.2 billion revolving credit facility.
Stock Repurchase Program:
As of December 31, 2021, we had an aggregate remaining repurchase authorization of approximately $358 million pursuant to our stock repurchase program. In February of 2022, our Board of Directors authorized a $1.4 billion increase to the program. As of June 30, 2022, we had an aggregate available repurchase authorization of $1.21 billion.
Pursuant to the terms of our stock repurchase program, shares of our Class B Common Stock may be repurchased, from time to time as conditions allow, on the open market or in negotiated private transactions. During the second quarter of 2022, we have repurchased approximately 1.61 million shares at an aggregate cost of approximately $195.6 million (approximately $122 per share) pursuant to the program. During the first six months of 2022, we have repurchased approximately 4.25 million shares at an aggregate cost of approximately $545.8 million (approximately $128 per share) pursuant to the program.
Conference call information:
We will hold a conference call for investors and analysts at 9:00 a.m. eastern time on July 26, 2022. A live webcast of the call will be available on our website at www.uhs.com. To participate via telephone, please register in advance by accessing this link. Upon registration, all telephone participants will receive a confirmation email detailing how to join the conference call, including the dial-in number along with a unique passcode and registrant ID that can be used to access the call. A replay of the call will be available for one full year following the live call.
General Information, Forward-Looking Statements and Risk Factors and Non-GAAP Financial Measures:
One of the nation's largest and most respected providers of hospital and healthcare services, Universal Health Services, Inc. has built an impressive record of achievement and performance. Growing steadily since our inception into an esteemed Fortune 500 corporation, our annual revenues during 2021 were approximately $12.6 billion. In 2022, UHS was again recognized as one of the World's Most Admired Companies by Fortune; ranked #297 on the Fortune 500; and in 2021, ranked #307 on Forbes' list of America's Largest Public Companies.
Our operating philosophy is as effective today as it was upon the Company's founding in 1979, enabling us to provide compassionate care to our patients and their loved ones. Our strategy includes building or acquiring high quality hospitals in rapidly growing markets, investing in the people and equipment needed to allow each facility to thrive, and becoming the leading healthcare provider in each community we serve.
Headquartered in King of Prussia, PA, UHS has over 89,000 employees and through its subsidiaries operates 28 acute care hospitals, 333 behavioral health facilities, 41 outpatient facilities and ambulatory care access points, an insurance offering, a physician network and various related services located in 39 U.S. states, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico and the United Kingdom. It acts as the advisor to Universal Health Realty Income Trust, a real estate investment trust (NYSE:UHT). For additional information visit www.uhs.com.
This press release contains forward-looking statements based on current management expectations. Numerous factors, including those disclosed herein, those related to the anticipated impact of COVID-19 on our operations and financial results, those related to healthcare industry trends and those detailed in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (as set forth in Item 2-Forward Looking Statements and Risk Factors in our Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2022 and in Item 1A-Risk Factors and in Item 7-Forward-Looking Statements and Risk Factors in our Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2021), may cause the results to differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements. These statements are subject to risks and uncertainties and therefore actual results may differ materially. Readers should not place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements which reflect management's view only as of the date hereof. We undertake no obligation to revise or update any forward-looking statements, or to make any other forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
Many of the factors that could affect our future results are beyond our control or ability to predict, including the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Our future operations and financial results will likely be materially unfavorably impacted by developments related to COVID-19 including, but not limited to, the potential impact on future COVID-19 patient volumes resulting from new variants of the virus, the length of time and severity of the spread of the pandemic; the volume of cancelled or rescheduled elective procedures and the volume of COVID-19 patients treated at our hospitals and other healthcare facilities; measures we are taking to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic; the impact of government and administrative regulation and stimulus on the hospital industry and potential retrospective adjustment in future periods of CARES Act and other grant income revenues recorded as revenues in prior periods; declining patient volumes and unfavorable changes in payer mix caused by deteriorating macroeconomic conditions (including increases in uninsured and underinsured patients as the result of business closings and layoffs); potential disruptions to our clinical staffing and shortages and disruptions related to supplies required for our employees and patients; potential increases to expenses and other costs related to staffing, supply chain, construction and medical equipment costs and other expenditures resulting from inflation; the impact of our substantial indebtedness and the ability to refinance such indebtedness on acceptable terms, as well as risks associated with disruptions in the financial markets and the business of financial institutions as the result of the COVID-19 pandemic which could impact us from a financing perspective; and changes in general economic conditions nationally and regionally in our markets resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition, please see the disclosure above in COVID-19 and Staffing Shortage, in connection with the nationwide shortage of nurses and other clinical staff and support personnel which has had, and is expected to continue to have, a material unfavorable impact on our results of operations.
We believe that adjusted net income attributable to UHS, adjusted net income attributable to UHS per diluted share, EBITDA net of NCI and Adjusted EBITDA net of NCI, which are non-GAAP financial measures ("GAAP" is Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the United States of America), are helpful to our investors as measures of our operating performance. In addition, we believe that, when applicable, comparing and discussing our financial results based on these measures, as calculated, is helpful to our investors since it neutralizes the effect of material items impacting our net income attributable to UHS, such as, changes in the market value of shares of certain equity securities and other potential material items that are nonrecurring or non-operational in nature including, but not limited to, impairments of goodwill and long-lived and intangible assets, reserves for various matters including settlements, legal judgments and lawsuits, costs related to extinguishment of debt, gains/losses on sales of assets and businesses, and other amounts that may be reflected in the current or prior year financial statements that relate to prior periods. To obtain a complete understanding of our financial performance these measures should be examined in connection with net income attributable to UHS, as determined in accordance with GAAP, and as presented in the condensed consolidated financial statements and notes thereto in this report or in our other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission including our Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2022 and our Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2021. Since the items included or excluded from these measures are significant components in understanding and assessing financial performance under GAAP, these measures should not be considered to be alternatives to net income as a measure of our operating performance or profitability. Since these measures, as presented, are not determined in accordance with GAAP and are thus susceptible to varying calculations, they may not be comparable to other similarly titled measures of other companies. Investors are encouraged to use GAAP measures when evaluating our financial performance.
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SOURCE Universal Health Services, Inc. | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/07/25/universal-health-services-inc-reports-2022-second-quarter-financial-results/ | 2022-07-25T20:48:50Z |
Russia invades Ukraine
By Helen Regan, CNN
The-CNN-Wire
™ & © 2022 Cable News Network, Inc., a WarnerMedia Company. All rights reserved.
By Helen Regan, CNN
The-CNN-Wire
™ & © 2022 Cable News Network, Inc., a WarnerMedia Company. All rights reserved.
You must be logged in to post a comment. | https://localnews8.com/news/national-world/cnn-europe-mideast-africa/2022/04/12/russia-invades-ukraine-84/ | 2022-04-13T06:31:00Z |
"Stake for the Planet" represents a new partnership with global tree planting tech platform Treedom
This initiative is the first step towards PlanetWatch's pledge to plant 1 million trees in the next 5 years
ST. GENIS-POUILLY, France, May 5, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- PlanetWatch, the world's first decentralized indoor and outdoor air quality monitoring network built on the Algorand blockchain, has partnered with Treedom, the first platform that allows you to plant a tree from a distance and follow the story of the project online, to launch the "Stake for the Planet" initiative.
Through this project, owners of PlanetWatch's tokens known as PLANETS can stake the digital assets in their Algorand wallet to earn a reward which will ultimately allow them to plant trees. If users stake 10,000 PLANETS tokens over one month, they will be able to plant a tree within PlanetWatch's forest, supported by Treedom. Each tree is linked to a collectible NFT that reflects its uniqueness. Owning the NFT means owning the tree.
"Stake for the Planet" is the first step towards PlanetWatch's pledge to plant 1 million trees worldwide in the next 5 years in support of global reforestation. Trees are being planted in the company's forest on Tredoom's platform. Currently, this forest includes 1,000 trees of 12 separate species across 3 different continents.
Claudio Parrinello, PlanetWatch CEO, commented: "Announcing our partnership with Treedom and the launch of Stake for the Planet on Earth Day reflects our double commitment to protecting public health via air quality data and mitigating climate change.
It is a pleasure to be working with Treedom, and a privilege to have PlanetWatch trees as part of their worldwide agroforestry network. The concept of harnessing digital assets on the blockchain to empower individuals in their contribution to global reforestation and carbon abatement is something we are very proud of."
Susanna Finardi, Treedom Partner & Head of Business Partnerships, said: "We are delighted that PlanetWatch, a player committed to monitoring air quality at a local level, has decided to rely on Treedom to plant trees and improve air quality at a global level. On the one hand, this will be good for the environment because the trees will absorb CO₂ and protect biodiversity. On the other, the fruit species will provide an income and empowerment opportunity for the communities involved. Together, we can achieve great results."
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SOURCE PlanetWatch | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/05/05/planetwatch-celebrates-earth-day-with-global-tree-planting-initiative/ | 2022-05-05T17:04:47Z |
PITTSBURGH, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- "I wanted to create a tool that would ensure that all rebar lengths are in an accurate parallel or perpendicular position," said an inventor, from Gablewoods South, St. Lucia, "so I invented the REBAR SPACER. My design would increase jobsite efficiency when completing concrete footing construction work."
The invention provides an improved way to place rebar steel rods during the foundation phase of building construction. In doing so, it ensures that rebar rods are consistently spaced to ensure structural integrity. As a result, it increases precision and efficiency. Additionally, the invention features a practical design that is easy to use so it is ideal for contractors.
The original design was submitted to the National sales office of InventHelp. It is currently available for licensing or sale to manufacturers or marketers. For more information, write Dept. 20-HAD-144, InventHelp, 217 Ninth Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15222, or call (412) 288-1300 ext. 1368. Learn more about InventHelp's Invention Submission Services at http://www.InventHelp.com.
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SOURCE InventHelp | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/08/09/inventhelp-inventor-develops-apparatus-aid-positioning-rebar-had-144/ | 2022-08-09T14:33:30Z |
KENT, Wash. (AP) — A suburban Seattle city will pay more than $1.5 million to settle a dispute with a former assistant police chief who was disciplined for posting a Nazi rank insignia on his office door and joking about the Holocaust.
Former Kent Assistant Police Chief Derek Kammerzell, who had been with the department for nearly three decades, was initially given two weeks of unpaid leave after the 2020 incident. Outraged residents and members of the Jewish community prompted Mayor Dana Ralph to put Kammerzell on paid administrative leave and demand his resignation.
The city’s attempt to essentially discipline Kammerzell a second time led to a dispute between his lawyers and the city that appeared headed for litigation. But interim city Chief Administrative Officer Arthur “Pat” Fiztpatrick, who is also the city attorney, said Friday the city had resolved the matter through negotiation, The Seattle Times reported.
Ralph, in calling for Kammerzell’s resignation in January, acknowledged that the decision to revisit the discipline issue would likely “come at a high cost.” The city said Friday it would pay him $1,520,000 to resign.
Had the city simply fired him, officials said, he likely would have won back his job through arbitration due to federal and state labor laws.
An internal investigation concluded Kammerzell knew the meaning of the insignia he placed above the nameplate on his office door in September 2020 — that of an “obergruppenfuhrer” — a high official in Hitler’s paramilitary Schutzstaffel, or SS, which was responsible for the systematic murders of millions of Jews and others in Europe during World War II.
The insignia was taken down after four days when a detective in the investigations bureau, which Kammerzell commanded, filed a complaint.
Kammerzell also was overheard joking about the Holocaust, according to the internal investigation.
Messages left by the newspaper with Kammerzell’s attorney and with the Kent Police Officers Association were not immediately returned. | https://cw33.com/news/u-s-news/ap-us-headlines/1-5m-to-be-paid-to-police-chief-who-displayed-nazi-insignia/ | 2022-06-11T20:44:31Z |
4th of July animal adoption special
SHERMAN, Texas (KXII) - The Denison Animal Welfare Group, better known as DAWG, is seeing a major increase of animals come into their shelter.
DAWG is asking for people to foster or adopt if they can, so that the animals won’t have to endure the heat and the loud fireworks outside the facility this weekend.
Volunteers for DAWG say it’s the 4th of July festivities that usually cause their space to fill up so quickly.
Volunteer Bruce Edmaiston said, " A lot of people put their dogs outside, and then they forget that it’s 4th of July. The fireworks start going off. People have their dogs, on collar and leash, but the collar’s not secure, and it scares the dog, and they get away. People find dogs all over the community after the fireworks, so we get an influx of animals at the pound.”
This weekend DAWG is hosting a “red hot” red white and blue adoption special, where all dogs who are positive for heartworm are 20 dollars.
All vaccines and heartworm treatment for the dogs will be included in the adoption price.
Copyright 2022 KXII. All rights reserved. | https://www.kxii.com/2022/07/02/4th-july-animal-adoption-special/ | 2022-07-03T00:05:54Z |
SAN ANTONIO, Aug. 23, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Cancer Insight, an oncology-focused clinical research organization (CRO), today introduced a new corporate identity: LumaBridge. As LumaBridge, the company will continue to build on its legacy of supporting the development of novel immunotherapies in the fight against cancer.
LumaBridge was founded in 2014 as Cancer Insight by veterans Dr. George Peoples and Dan Hargrove, who bring more than 30 years of combined experience in academic and military research. LumaBridge has since grown to serve as a trusted partner in creating innovative clinical trial solutions, committed to providing the guidance, attention, and flexibility needed to advance oncology therapies and benefit patients.
The LumaBridge name change reflects the company's vision for working hand-in-hand with emerging biopharma companies and lighting a path forward to the development of life-changing immunotherapy cancer treatments. With empathetic partners and experienced researchers engaged from beginning to end, LumaBridge delivers full outsourced support for clinical trials, working efficiently to make groundbreaking advancements in immuno-oncology. The company's comprehensive CRO services include clinical data management, regulatory affairs, clinical operations, and special capabilities in government/military contracts and funding.
Building on a legacy of innovation, LumaBridge is advancing novel immunotherapies in the fight against cancer.
Visit the new LumaBridge website and explore their rebranding here.
LumaBridge is a specialty clinical research organization (CRO) focused on creating innovative clinical trial solutions for biopharma companies. Founded in 2014 as Cancer Insight, the company offers customized clinical trial guidance, strategic partnership, and personalized attention to each sponsor, accelerating the development of potential therapies.
LumaBridge builds on the success and experience of a seasoned team, led by Dr. George Peoples, to support drug development, accelerating therapies to patients and guiding biopharma companies through clinical and regulatory pathways. As part of their comprehensive CRO services, LumaBridge offers consultation on trial design and clinical development strategy.
For more information, visit lumabridge.com.
Contact Information:
LumaBridge
contact@lumabridge.com
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SOURCE LumaBridge | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/08/23/cancer-insight-is-now-lumabridge/ | 2022-08-23T21:17:27Z |
Subsequent Merger of Operations is Expected to Make Liberty Mutual the Largest Auto Insurer in Malaysia
BOSTON, July 28, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Liberty Mutual Insurance has completed its acquisition of Malaysian insurer AmGeneral Insurance Berhad (AmGeneral) following the receipt of regulatory approval in Malaysia and signing a purchase and sale agreement with AmBank Group (AmBank).
AmGeneral was previously 51%-owned by AmBank and 49%-owned by Insurance Australia Group. Liberty Insurance Berhad acquired 100% of the shares of AmGeneral, and AmBank continues to hold a 30% interest in the business through the consideration shares they received as part of the deal.
As part of the transaction, the prospective merged entity will enter into an exclusive 20-year bancassurance partnership with AmBank to distribute general insurance products. The AmGeneral and Liberty Insurance Berhad operations will, at a subsequent date, be formally merged, at which time it is expected that the combined entity will become the largest auto insurer and a leading general insurer in Malaysia.
"The acquisition of and subsequent merger with AmGeneral is instrumental in our aspiration to become a leading global property and casualty insurance company," said Liberty Mutual President, Global Retail Markets, Jim MacPhee. "Together, we will help people embrace today and confidently pursue tomorrow so that individuals and businesses in Malaysia grow and win together. Combining Liberty's global capabilities with the strong team driving a well-respected and valued AmGeneral franchise will create a best-in-class insurance operation."
AmGeneral serves the Malaysian insurance market through approximately 1,400 employees at 33 branch locations. A top-three motor insurer with a growing business in additional product lines, the company distributes its personal and commercial insurance products under the AmAssurance and Kurnia brands through more than 6,000 agents, brokers, car dealers, franchises and affinity partners, and its fast-growing digital and direct capabilities.
At Liberty Mutual, we believe progress happens when people feel secure. By providing protection for the unexpected and delivering it with care, we help people embrace today and confidently pursue tomorrow.
In business since 1912, and headquartered in Boston, today we are the sixth largest global property and casualty insurer based on 2020 gross written premium. We also rank 78 on the Fortune 100 list of largest corporations in the U.S. based on 2021 revenue. As of December 31, 2021, we had $48.2 billion in annual consolidated revenue.
We employ over 45,000 people in 29 countries and economies around the world. We offer a wide range of insurance products and services, including personal automobile, homeowners, specialty lines, reinsurance, commercial multiple-peril, workers compensation, commercial automobile, general liability, surety, and commercial property.
For more information, visit www.libertymutualinsurance.com.
Based in Kuala Lumpur, Liberty Insurance Berhad has approximately 450 employees at six regional offices and 24 branches across Malaysia. The company distributes its personal, commercial and other product lines through multiple channels, including a 2,000-agent force.
Contact: mediarelations@libertymutual.com
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SOURCE Liberty Mutual Insurance | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/07/28/liberty-mutual-insurance-completes-acquisition-malaysian-insurer-amgeneral/ | 2022-07-28T11:32:48Z |
MOGADISHU, Somalia (AP) — The African Union says a number of Burundian peacekeepers were killed in Tuesday’s attack by Islamic extremist rebels who targeted a remote military base in Somalia.
The African Union condemned the attack and paid “tribute to the Burundian peacekeepers who lost their lives helping to bring peace and stability to Somalia,” in a statement issued Wednesday.
That statement did not say how many peacekeepers were killed. African Union authorities generally do not give casualty tolls when peacekeepers are killed in Somalia.
The Islamic extremist group al-Shabab claimed responsibility for the attack on the base in El Baraf, a small town 150 kilometers (93 miles) north of the Somali capital, Mogadishu, in the Middle Shabelle region. The group circulated a video purporting to show the dead bodies of peacekeepers as well as military equipment seized in the attack.
Al-Shabab claimed to have killed 173 soldiers, but the group regularly inflates death tolls after attacks by its fighters. The death toll and al-Shabab’s purported video from the scene could not be independently verified.
Tuesday’s attack was the latest by al-Shabab, which opposes the presence of foreign troops in Somalia. The group, which is fighting to impose Islamic Shariah law across the Horn of Africa nation, has stepped up its attacks in recent months amid political tensions as Somalia tries to elect a new president.
Burundi is one of the African countries contributing troops to the African Union Mission in Somalia, now known by its initials as ATMIS. Uganda, Kenya, Ethiopia and Djibouti also have deployed soldiers to the mission.
The African Union statement urged the international community “to increase support to the Somali security services and the ATMIS mission commensurate with the security challenge at hand.” | https://cw33.com/news/international/ap-international/burundian-peacekeepers-in-somalia-killed-in-jihadi-attack/ | 2022-05-05T05:00:01Z |
Fast-growing agency also relaunches website and refreshes brand identity
NEW YORK, June 6, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Now in its third year, Allied Sports has grown to over forty staffers and continues to fill key positions across its full-service sports marketing practice, including new leaders in brand strategy, creative design, analytics, and partnership development.
Recently, Ryan Scanlan joined to lead the Data and Analytics offering at Allied Sports. Scanlan was previously in similar roles at Sportfive and CAA Sports, providing sponsorship valuation and measurement services in support of brand and commercial clients. In April, Megan Fogarty joined Allied Sports as Vice President of Partnership Development after nearly four seasons with the Los Angeles Rams and prior sales roles with IMG and the PGA TOUR.
Earlier this year, the agency also welcomed Brianna Babb as Strategy Director and Bethany Crowley as Creative Services Director. Babb brings over fifteen years of experience as a senior strategist and brand planner with creative agencies like North, Wieden + Kennedy and Wongdoody. Crowley led creative design for brand experiences across several high-profile sponsorship programs for over a decade at 160over90, following previous roles as a Senior Art Director in the music industry.
"These are game-changing hires for our business – not just the critical roles they play, but the talented people in them," said Chief Executive Officer Greg Luckman. "Ryan, Megan, Brianna and Bethany have each made an immediate impact to the integrated client service process we designed for the industry's shift from Sponsor to StorytellerTM."
Allied Sports also relaunched its website last month and enhanced its visual brand identity, both strategic measures developed as part of the agency's three-year growth plan.
"Since day one, we have taken a very measured approach to building the Allied Sports brand," added Kevin McSherry, Executive Vice President of Strategy & Solutions. "We have successfully scaled our service offerings over time and are proud to unveil a new website that captures our brand essence and communicates our value proposition."
Allied Sports currently serves a diverse roster of clients, from innovative brands like Cisco and Quest Diagnostics to sports properties on the rise such as the Florida Panthers and the NWSL.
ABOUT ALLIED SPORTS
Allied Sports launched in 2019 by bringing together award-winning leaders who have built and managed some of the largest sports marketing agencies in the world over the last two decades. Today, we are allies together in a nimble agency whose mission is to help modern marketers accelerate the shift from Sponsor to StorytellerTM – leveraging the promise of sports sponsorship to tell a story their audiences cannot ignore. To learn more, visit www.alliedsports.com or follow @AlliedSports on LinkedIn.
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SOURCE Allied Sports | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/06/06/allied-sports-expands-leadership-team-with-recent-hires/ | 2022-06-06T14:22:20Z |
R Kelly trial on whether he fixed 2008 trial set to start
CHICAGO (AP) — Jury selection begins Monday at R. Kelly’s federal trial in his hometown of Chicago, where the R&B singer faces charges that he rigged his 2008 state child pornography trial by threatening and paying off a girl who he allegedly filmed himself having sex with when he was around 30 and she was no older than 14.
Jurors acquitted Kelly on all charges in that 2008 trial, some explaining later that they felt they had no choice because the girl did not testify. The woman, now in her 30s and referred to in filings only as “Minor 1,” will be the government’s star witness in the upcoming federal trial.
Kelly, 55, goes into Chicago federal court Monday already sentenced by a New York federal judge to a 30-year prison term for a 2021 conviction on charges he used his fame to sexually abuse other young fans.
Kelly, who rose from poverty on Chicago’s South Side to become a star singer, songwriter and producer, faces multiple charges at the federal trial. They include four counts of enticement of minors for sex — one each for four other accusers. They, too, are slated to testify.
Convictions in Chicago could add decades to Kelly’s New York sentence, which he is appealing. With the New York sentence alone, Kelly will be around 80 before qualifying for early release.
Two Kelly associates, Derrel McDavid and Milton Brown, are co-defendants at the Chicago trial. McDavid is accused of helping Kelly fix the 2008 trial, while Brown is charged with receiving child pornography. Like Kelly, they have also denied any wrongdoing.
Two state cases are also still pending. One is a multiple count sex-abuse case out of Cook County Circuit Court in Chicago. The other is a solicitation case in Minnesota. No trial dates are set for either.
Minor 1 is expected to testify that she was on video having sex with Kelly. The recording was at the heart of the monthlong 2008 trial and was played for jurors almost every day.
Minor 1 first met Kelly in the late 1990s when she was in junior high school. She had tagged along to Kelly’s Chicago recording studio with her aunt, a professional singer working with Kelly. Soon after, Minor 1 told her parents Kelly was going to become her godfather.
Prosecutors say Kelly later threatened and sought to pay off Minor 1 and her parents so they wouldn’t testify at the 2008 trial. None of them did.
Double jeopardy rules bar the prosecution of someone for the same crimes they were acquitted of earlier. That doesn’t apply to the Chicago federal trial because prosecutors are alleging different crimes related to Minor 1, including obstruction of justice.
___
Follow Michael Tarm on Twitter at https://twitter.com/mtarm
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | https://www.mysuncoast.com/2022/08/15/r-kelly-trial-whether-he-fixed-2008-trial-set-start/ | 2022-08-15T10:38:43Z |
SAN FRANCISCO, July 14, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Orum, the AI-driven outbound dialing platform that powers live conversations with prospects, has successfully achieved SOC 2 Type II certification after completing a third-party audit of its data security and privacy protection processes.
The report, compiled by Prescient Assurance, documents how Orum's data security and privacy procedures meet the SOC 2 core criteria for security, availability, processing integrity, and confidentiality.
SOC 2, defined by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), consists of a series of auditing measures to ensure that service providers securely manage user data and privacy. As a leading enterprise-level SaaS provider, Orum's SOC 2 Type II report goes to further verify the commitment Orum is making to ensure that their business operations and procedures are at the highest level of security, trust, and transparency.
"Security is a journey and Orum has always been committed to keeping customers' data safe," said Rolland Miller, Vice President of Security and Compliance at Orum. "What this audit represents is that we've taken the next step by meeting all SOC 2 Type II certification requirements and had those controls tested and validated by licensed third parties. This enables our organization to provide our customers with the best service in terms of data security, privacy, and management."
In addition to the SOC 2 Type II compliance, Orum is continuing to prioritize the state of data security by pursuing ISO 27001 certification as well as GDPR and other privacy specific international certifications. This in conjunction with a number of internal cybersecurity initiatives meant to ensure that customer data is segregated and in compliance with International Privacy and Telephoney Laws are a part of the company's roadmap to expanding services internationally in 2023.
Read more on Orum's Blog: https://www.orum.com/post/announcing-soc2-type-ii-certification
Orum is an AI-driven outbound dialing platform that powers live customer conversations and empowers sales teams by automating the hardest parts of calling. With Orum, sales teams can leverage AI to detect voicemails, filter out bad numbers, and navigate phone directories to get your reps into live conversations quickly. To learn more, visit www.orum.com.
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SOURCE Orum | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/07/14/orum-completes-soc-2-type-ii-compliance/ | 2022-07-14T19:31:13Z |
LOS ANGELES, May 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Glancy Prongay & Murray LLP ("GPM") announces that investors with substantial losses have opportunity to lead the securities fraud class action lawsuit against Natera, Inc. ("Natera" or the "Company") (NASDAQ: NTRA).
Class Period: February 26, 2020 – April 19, 2022
Lead Plaintiff Deadline: June 27, 2022
If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff of the Natera lawsuit, you can submit your contact information at www.glancylaw.com/cases/natera-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) Panorama was not reliable and resulted in high rates of false positives; (2) Prospera did not have superior precision compared to competing tests; (3) as a result of Defendants' false and misleading claims about Natera's technology, the Company was exposed to substantial legal and regulatory risks; (4) Natera relied upon deceptive sales and billing practices to drive its revenue growth; 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.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/05/09/ntra-investors-have-opportunity-lead-natera-inc-securities-fraud-lawsuit/ | 2022-05-09T22:40:35Z |
Total Core Mall Leased Space Strong at 95.0%
Core Mall Sales Per Square Foot Reached $605 in June, up 12.2% compared to 2019
Average Renewal Spreads were 2.3% for the Six Months Ended June 30th
Core Mall Total Occupancy Increased 480 Basis Points to 93.8%
PHILADELPHIA, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- PREIT (NYSE: PEI) today reported results for the three and six months ended June 30, 2022. A description of each non-GAAP financial measure and the related reconciliation to the comparable GAAP financial measure is provided in the tables accompanying this release.
"It has been a busy and very productive quarter. In the face of an evolving economic backdrop, our team continues to deliver strong results, bringing new tenants to the portfolio and executing on asset sales." said Joseph F. Coradino, Chairman and CEO of PREIT. "We continue to drive the quality of our properties, raise capital through asset sales and pay down debt, improving the balance sheet and setting the stage for the anticipated exercise of our credit facility extension."
- Same Store NOI, excluding lease termination revenue, increased 3.6% for the six months ended June 30,2022 compared to the six months ended June 30, 2021 driven by increased occupancy and rental revenue.
- Same Store NOI, excluding lease termination revenue, decreased 5.7% for the three months ended June 30, 2022 compared to the three months ended June 30, 2021.
- Robust leasing activity is driving increased occupancy with Core Mall Total Occupancy increasing by 480 basis points to 93.8% compared to the second quarter 2021. Core Mall Non-anchor Occupancy eclipsed 90%, improving 450 basis points to 90.5% compared to the second quarter of 2021.
- Total Core Mall leased space, at 95.0%, exceeds occupied space by 120 basis points, and core mall non-anchor leased space, at 92.3%, exceeds occupied space by 180 basis points when including executed new leases slated for future occupancy, demonstrating the rapid pace of leasing activity.
- For the rolling 12 month period ended June 30, 2022, core mall comparable sales grew to $605 per square foot.
- Average renewal spreads for the six months ended June 30, 2022 were 2.3%.
- Two new trustees were elected to the Company's Board of Trustees.
- The Company made notable advances in its capital-raising efforts. As part of its debt reduction plan, the Company has applied asset sale proceeds and excess cash from operations to pay down debt by $82 million during the six months ended June 30, 2022. The Company currently has over $65 million in purchase and sales agreements executed, and has several others in the final stages of negotiation for a total of over $200 million of potential incremental asset sales pending.
Leasing and Redevelopment
- 297,000 square feet of leases are signed for future openings, which is expected to contribute annualized gross rent of $5.9 million.
- Construction has started on a new self-storage facility in previously unused below grade space at Mall at Prince George's in Hyattsville, MD.
- A lease has been executed with Tilted 10 and Tilt Studio, an action-packed bi-level 104,000 square foot indoor family entertainment center at Willow Grove Park, adding family entertainment to this locally-loved destination shopping experience, and is expected to open in the third quarter 2022.
- Phoenix Theatres at Woodland Mall, occupying 47,000 square feet, opened in April 2022.
- At Moorestown Mall, Cooper University Healthcare has started construction on its facility that is expected to open in the second half of 2023. The sale of land for multi-family development was completed in June 2022. Construction is expected to begin on this project in August 2022 with initial occupancy anticipated in fall 2024.
- Landlord work is underway for a new prototype, 32,000 square foot, LEGO® Discovery Center at Springfield Town Center with expected opening in third quarter 2023.
- Leases are executed for 10 stores within the portfolio with expanding retailers Rose & Remington, BoxLunch and Lovisa.
Primary Factors Affecting Financial Results for the Three Months Ended June 30, 2022 and 2021
- Net loss attributable to PREIT common shareholders was $17.6 million (which takes into consideration the accrual of preferred dividends that accumulated during the quarter but have not been paid), or $3.32 per basic and diluted share for the three months ended June 30, 2022, compared to net loss attributable to PREIT common shareholders of $31.4 million, or $6.04 per basic and diluted share for the three months ended June 30, 2021.
- Funds from Operations increased in the three months ended June 30, 2022 compared to the prior year period due primarily to a gain of $8.8 million from the sale of our Moorestown multifamily land parcel and a decrease in general and administrative expenses offset by lower NOI, including lease termination revenue.
- Same Store NOI, including lease terminations, decreased by $4.4 million, or 8.3% due primarily to lower lease termination revenue and lower rental income compared to the same quarter last year as a result of accounting treatment for abatements that positively impacted the 2021 quarter partially offset by increases in minimum rent and percentage rent.
- FFO for the three months ended June 30, 2022 was $1.72 per diluted share and OP Unit compared to $1.51 per diluted share and OP Unit for the three months ended June 30, 2021.
All NOI and FFO amounts referenced as primary factors affecting financial results above include our share of unconsolidated properties' revenues and expenses. Additional information regarding changes in operating results for the three and six months ended June 30, 2022 and 2021 is included on page 15.
Liquidity and Financing Activities
As of June 30, 2022, the Company had $113.9 million available under its First Lien Revolving Credit Facility. The Company's corporate cash balances, when combined with available credit, provide total liquidity of $127.6 million.
Asset Dispositions
Multifamily Land Parcels: During the quarter, the Company closed on the sale of land for 375 residential units at Moorestown Mall for approximately $12 million. The Company has executed agreements of sale for land parcels for anticipated multi-family development at three properties. One parcel is being re-marketed and the parcel at Exton Square Mall is included in the $28.8 million purchase price.
Hotel Parcels: The Company has an executed purchase and sale agreement for the sale of a parcel for hotel development at Springfield Town Center for $2.7 million.
Other Parcels: In February, we completed the redemption of preferred equity issued as part of the sale of our New Garden land parcel. In connection with this settlement, we received approximately $2.5 million. The Company expects to close on the sale of an anchor box at Valley View Mall for $2.6 million in the second half of the year. In July, the Company executed an amended purchase and sale agreement for the sale of Exton Square Mall for $28.8 million, which is expected to close in the second half of the year. In April, we executed a purchase and sale agreement for the sale of the former Sears TBA location at Moorestown Mall for $3.35 million. In May, we executed a purchase and sales agreement for the sale of 11 outparcels for $32.5 million. The sale of 3 parcels for over $5 million has been completed at this time.
2022 Outlook
The Company is not issuing detailed guidance at this time.
Conference Call Information
Management has scheduled a conference call for 11:00 a.m. Eastern Time on Tuesday August 9, 2022, to review the Company's results and future outlook. To listen to the call, please dial 1(888) 330-2024 (domestic toll free), or 1(646) 960-0187 (international), and request to join the PREIT call, Conference ID 9326912, at least fifteen minutes before the scheduled start time as callers could experience delays. Investors can also access the call in a "listen only" mode via the internet at the Company's website, preit.com. Please allow extra time prior to the call to visit the site and download the necessary software to listen to the Internet broadcast. Financial and statistical information expected to be discussed on the call will also be available on the Company's website.
For interested individuals unable to join the conference call, the online archive of the webcast will also be available for one year following the call.
About PREIT
PREIT (NYSE:PEI) is a publicly traded real estate investment trust that owns and manages innovative properties developed to be thoughtful, community-centric hubs. PREIT's robust portfolio of carefully curated, ever-evolving properties generates success for its tenants and meaningful impact for the communities it serves by keenly focusing on five core areas of established and emerging opportunity: multi-family & hotel, health & tech, retail, essentials & grocery and experiential. Located primarily in densely-populated regions, PREIT is a top operator of high quality, purposeful places that serve as one-stop destinations for customers to shop, dine, play and stay. Additional information is available at www.preit.com or on Twitter, Instagram or LinkedIn.
Rounding
Certain summarized information in the tables included may not total due to rounding.
Definitions
Funds From Operations ("FFO")
The National Association of Real Estate Investment Trusts ("NAREIT") defines Funds From Operations ("FFO"), which is a non-GAAP measure commonly used by REITs, as net income (computed in accordance with GAAP) excluding (i) depreciation and amortization of real estate, (ii) gains and losses on sales of certain real estate assets, (iii) gains and losses from change in control and (iv) impairment write-downs of certain real estate assets and investments in entities when the impairment is directly attributable to decreases in the value of depreciable real estate held by the entity. We compute FFO in accordance with standards established by NAREIT, which may not be comparable to FFO reported by other REITs that do not define the term in accordance with the current NAREIT definition, or that interpret the current NAREIT definition differently than we do. NAREIT's established guidance provides that excluding impairment write downs of depreciable real estate is consistent with the NAREIT definition.
FFO is a commonly used measure of operating performance and profitability among REITs. We use FFO and FFO per diluted share and unit of limited partnership interest in our operating partnership ("OP Unit") in measuring our performance against our peers and as one of the performance measures for determining incentive compensation amounts earned under certain of our performance-based executive compensation programs.
FFO does not include gains and losses on sales of operating real estate assets or impairment write downs of depreciable real estate (including development land parcels), which are included in the determination of net loss in accordance with GAAP. Accordingly, FFO is not a comprehensive measure of our operating cash flows. In addition, since FFO does not include depreciation on real estate assets, FFO may not be a useful performance measure when comparing our operating performance to that of other non-real estate commercial enterprises. We compensate for these limitations by using FFO in conjunction with other GAAP financial performance measures, such as net loss and net cash used in operating activities, and other non-GAAP financial performance measures, such as NOI. FFO does not represent cash generated from operating activities in accordance with GAAP and should not be considered to be an alternative to net loss (determined in accordance with GAAP) as an indication of our financial performance or to be an alternative to cash flow from operating activities (determined in accordance with GAAP) as a measure of our liquidity, nor is it indicative of funds available for our cash needs, including our ability to make cash distributions. We believe that net loss is the most directly comparable GAAP measurement to FFO.
When applicable, we also present FFO, as adjusted, and FFO per diluted share and OP Unit, as adjusted, which are non-GAAP measures, for the three and six months ended June 30, 2022 and 2021, to show the effect of such items as gain or loss on debt extinguishment (including accelerated amortization of financing costs), impairment of assets, provision for employee separation expense, insurance recoveries or losses, net, gain on derecognition of property, gain or loss on sale of preferred equity interest, gain or loss on hedge ineffectiveness and reorganization expenses which had an effect on our results of operations, but are not, in our opinion, indicative of our ongoing operating performance.
We believe that FFO is helpful to management and investors as a measure of operating performance because it excludes various items included in net loss that do not relate to or are not indicative of operating performance, such as gains on sales of operating real estate and depreciation and amortization of real estate, among others. We believe that Funds From Operations, as adjusted, is helpful to management and investors as a measure of operating performance because it adjusts FFO to exclude items that management does not believe are indicative of our operating performance, such as provision for employee separation expense, gain on hedge ineffectiveness and reorganization expenses.
Net Operating Income ("NOI")
NOI (a non-GAAP measure) is derived from real estate revenue (determined in accordance with GAAP, including lease termination revenue), minus property operating expenses (determined in accordance with GAAP), plus our pro rata share of revenue and property operating expenses of our unconsolidated partnership investments. NOI does not represent cash generated from operating activities in accordance with GAAP and should not be considered to be an alternative to net loss (determined in accordance with GAAP) as an indication of our financial performance or to be an alternative to cash flow from operating activities (determined in accordance with GAAP) as a measure of our liquidity. It is not indicative of funds available for our cash needs, including our ability to make cash distributions. We believe NOI is helpful to management and investors as a measure of operating performance because it is an indicator of the return on property investment, and provides a method of comparing property performance over time. We believe that net loss is the most directly comparable GAAP measure to NOI. NOI excludes other income, depreciation and amortization, general and administrative expenses, insurance recoveries (net), provision for employee separation expense, project costs and other expenses, interest expense, reorganization expenses, impairment of assets, equity in loss or income of partnerships, gain on extinguishment of debt, gain or loss on sales of real estate and gain or loss on sale of preferred equity interest.
Same Store NOI is calculated using retail properties owned for the full periods presented and excludes properties acquired or disposed of, under redevelopment, or designated as non-core during the periods presented. Non Same Store NOI is calculated using the retail properties excluded from the calculation of Same Store NOI.
Unconsolidated Properties and Proportionate Financial Information
The non-GAAP financial measures of FFO and NOI presented in this press release incorporate financial information attributable to our share of unconsolidated properties. This proportionate financial information is non-GAAP financial information, but we believe that it is helpful information because it reflects the pro rata contribution from our unconsolidated properties that are owned through investments accounted for under GAAP using the equity method of accounting. Under such method, earnings from these unconsolidated partnerships are recorded in our statements of operations prepared in accordance with GAAP under the caption entitled "Equity in (loss) income of partnerships."
To derive the proportionate financial information from our unconsolidated properties," we multiplied the percentage of our economic interest in each partnership on a property-by-property basis by each line item. Under the partnership agreements relating to our current unconsolidated partnerships with third parties, we own a 40% to 50% economic interest in such partnerships, and there are generally no provisions in such partnership agreements relating to special non-pro rata allocations of income or loss, and there are no preferred or priority returns of capital or other similar provisions. While this method approximates our indirect economic interest in our pro rata share of the revenue and expenses of our unconsolidated partnerships, we do not have a direct legal claim to the assets, liabilities, revenues or expenses of the unconsolidated partnerships beyond our rights as an equity owner in the event of any liquidation of such entity. Our percentage ownership is not necessarily indicative of the legal and economic implications of our ownership interest. Accordingly, NOI and FFO results based on our share of the results of unconsolidated partnerships do not represent cash generated from our investments in these partnerships.
Core Properties
Core Properties include all operating retail properties except for Exton Square Mall. Core Malls exclude Exton Square Mall and power centers.
Forward Looking Statements
This press release contains certain forward-looking statements that can be identified by the use of words such as "anticipate," "believe," "estimate," "expect," "intend," "may," "project," and similar expressions. Forward-looking statements relate to expectations, beliefs, projections, future plans, strategies, anticipated events, trends and other matters that are not historical facts. These forward-looking statements reflect our current views about future events, achievements, results, cost reductions and the impact of COVID-19 and are subject to risks, uncertainties and changes in circumstances that might cause future events, achievements or results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. In particular, our business might be materially and adversely affected by the following:
- the effectiveness of our financial restructuring and any additional strategies that we may employ to address our liquidity and capital resources in the future;
- our ability to achieve forecasted revenue and pro forma leverage ratio and generate free cash flow to further reduce indebtedness;
- the COVID-19 global pandemic and the public health and governmental response, which have created periods of significant economic disruptions and also have and may continue to exacerbate many of the risks listed herein;
- changes in the retail and real estate industries, including bankruptcies, consolidation and store closings, particularly among anchor tenants;
- changes in economic conditions, including unemployment rates and its effects on consumer confidence and spending, supply chain challenges, the current inflationary environment, and the corresponding effects on tenant business performance, prospects, solvency and leasing decisions;
- our inability to collect rent due to the bankruptcy or insolvency of tenants or otherwise;
- our ability to maintain and increase property occupancy, sales and rental rates;
- increases in operating costs that cannot be passed on to tenants, which may be exacerbated in the current inflationary environment;
- the effects of online shopping and other uses of technology on our retail tenants;
- risks related to our development and redevelopment activities, including delays, cost overruns and our inability to reach projected occupancy or rental rates;
- social unrest and acts of vandalism or violence at malls, including our properties, or at other similar spaces, and the potential effect on traffic and sales;
- our ability to sell properties that we seek to dispose of, which may be delayed by, among other things, the failure to obtain zoning, occupancy and other governmental approvals and permits or, to the extent required, approvals of other third parties;
- potential losses on impairment of certain long-lived assets, such as real estate, including losses that we might be required to record in connection with any disposition of assets;
- our substantial debt, particularly in light of increasing interest rates, and our ability to remain in compliance with our financial covenants under our debt facilities;
- our ability to raise capital, including through sales of properties or interests in properties, subject to the terms of our Credit Agreements; and
- potential dilution from any capital raising transactions or other equity issuances.
Additional factors that might cause future events, achievements or results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by our forward-looking statements include those discussed herein and in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2021 in the section entitled "Item 1A. Risk Factors" and any subsequent reports we file with the SEC. Any forward-looking statements made by us speak only as of the date on which they are made, and we do not intend to update or revise any forward-looking statements to reflect new information, future events or otherwise.
** Quarterly supplemental financial and operating **
** information will be available on www.preit.com **
Pennsylvania Real Estate Investment Trust
Selected Financial Data
The following table presents a reconciliation of net loss determined in accordance with GAAP to (i) FFO attributable to common shareholders and OP Unit holders, (ii) FFO, as adjusted, attributable to common shareholders and OP Unit holders, (iii) FFO attributable to common shareholders and OP Unit holders per diluted share and OP Unit, (iv) and FFO, as adjusted, attributable to common shareholders and OP Unit holders per diluted share and OP Unit for the three and six months ended June 30, 2022 and 2021:
Pennsylvania Real Estate Investment Trust
Selected Financial Data
NOI for the three and six months ended June 30, 2022 and 2021:
Pennsylvania Real Estate Investment Trust
Selected Financial Data
The table below reconciles net loss to NOI of our consolidated properties for the three and six months ended June 30, 2022 and 2021.
Pennsylvania Real Estate Investment Trust
Selected Financial Data
The table below reconciles equity in (loss) income of partnerships to NOI of equity method investments at ownership share for the three and six months ended June 30, 2022 and 2021:
Pennsylvania Real Estate Investment Trust
Selected Financial Data
Changes in Funds from Operations for the three and six months ended June 30, 2022 as compared to the three and six months ended June 30, 2021 (all per share amounts on a diluted basis unless otherwise noted; per share amounts rounded to the nearest half penny; amounts may not total due to rounding)
CONTACT: AT THE COMPANY
Mario Ventresca
EVP & CFO
(215) 875-0703
Heather Crowell
heather@gregoryfca.com
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SOURCE PREIT | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/08/09/preit-reports-second-quarter-2022-results/ | 2022-08-09T11:30:46Z |
Safety, ease-of-use and durability bring the companies together
ENDICOTT, N.Y., June 7, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Amphenol Industrial Operations, a global leader in interconnect systems, has partnered with Eaxtron USA, a battery connector manufacturer located in Woodland Hills, CA, to sell its Effortless & Arcless UL 1977 DIN connectors, crimpers and cable assemblies that will still be available under the Eaxtron name. These connectors are designed to offer lower cost of ownership and meet the needs of companies in the Material Handling (forklifts), GSE (ground support equipment - aviation support), MRO (maintenance, repair, operations), specialty vehicles (golf carts, EATV, etc) and warehouse operations and purchasing industries. They are safe, easy to use and durable.
The UL1977 connectors offer coupling with 80% less effort than the current industry standard and feature a unique contact technology that allows for more contact points and a higher rate of conductivity. A lower force is required to mate and unmate the leads to these connectors, resulting in less damage and lower injury rates.
The connector's contacts are made from pure copper and plated with 6µm of silver, ensuring minimal wear and tear on the contact. The patented Vortex clip guarantees a safe and easier connection, significantly reducing friction and further improving the contact's lifespan.
Made from polyamide to ensure robust performance in even the most rugged environments, these connectors have flexible and durable handles.
The connector is designed with a patented locking mechanism as well as female contacts and a durable housing that stops potential arcs. Its color-coded system design helps to prevent non-compatible connection by classifying different voltages and applications by color.
Eaxtron USA connectors are UL approved and available in sizes rated to 160A, 320A and 430A. These durable connectors have a lifespan that exceeds 12,000 cycles, which is twice the industry average. Adapters are available to make the connectors interoperable with other industry standard connectors.
For full news release and hi-res photo: https://bit.ly/UL1977DIN_news
Contact:
Joanna Puglisi-Barley
publicrelations@simongroup.com
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SOURCE Amphenol Industrial Operations | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/06/07/amphenol-partners-with-eaxtron-usa-take-leadership-through-innovation/ | 2022-06-07T17:44:16Z |
WASHINGTON, June 28, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Regent University and Family Research Council released a new report today titled "Why International Religious Freedom is Vital to International Development: Causal Connections and Policy Recommendations." The report focuses on how agencies responsible for administering America's foreign development assistance should promote religious freedom abroad. This report also points to the evidence that economic growth can only be fully realized for developing nations when religious freedom is protected.
Regent's Dr. A. J. Nolte and FRC's Arielle Del Turco, who jointly authored the report, observe: "According to USAID's mission statement, it exists in part to 'promote and demonstrate democratic values abroad, and advance a free, peaceful, and prosperous world.' One of the most meaningful ways USAID can do this is by promoting religious freedom around the world. The reality is that the expansion of religious freedom contributes to many international development goals, and programming geared toward promoting international religious freedom (IRF) can play a positive role in advancing this fundamental human right for all people."
The report goes on to assert: "Because of the correlation between religious freedom and economic growth, the U.S. government's foreign assistance efforts would greatly benefit from promoting international religious freedom programming and projects. If the U.S. government wants to have a long-lasting impact in the countries it seeks to strengthen, then promoting religious freedom must be a part of the solution."
The report's co-author Arielle Del Turco commented on the study:
"Research demonstrates a strong link between religious freedom and economic growth and development. If the U.S. government wants to have a positive long-term impact on developing societies, then advancing religious freedom must be a part of the game plan. U.S. development efforts should be focusing on protecting persecuted communities and contributing to stable societies that embrace religious freedom. This will allow them to prosper."
"Religious freedom—defined as the ability to choose, change, and live in accordance with your faith—is core to who we are. We do people in the developing world a serious disservice by overlooking this fundamental human right. By fostering religious freedom in the developing world, we can help set countries up for success," Del Turco concluded.
The full report, and the corresponding issue brief, can be found here: https://www.frc.org/internationaldevelopment
View original content:
SOURCE Family Research Council | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/06/28/frc-regent-university-release-joint-study-linking-religious-freedom-economic-well-being/ | 2022-06-28T19:33:19Z |
Research, care innovation and education initiatives will include $1.3 million in initial grants
OAKLAND, Calif., June 16, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Kaiser Permanente, the nation's largest integrated, nonprofit health care provider, has launched a new Center for Gun Violence Research and Education. The goal of the center is to reduce the incidence and impact of gun violence, including intimate partner violence and suicide, in the United States. The center will work to address the emotional and psychological trauma related to the aftermath of shootings and will focus on the profound disparate impact that gun violence has had in communities of color. It will also provide strong leadership and collaboration with health care providers, community-based organizations, and businesses seeking to participate in solutions that will have a measurable impact on the gun violence epidemic.
The center will develop, test, and scale public health and health care solutions to addressing gun violence, including:
- Research efforts focusing on solutions and interventions to gun violence, and the long-term psychological consequences of these incidents, that are promising but in need of additional evidence
- Education efforts addressing the need to inform the public, health care stakeholders, businesses, policymakers, and community-based organizations about the role they can play in reducing gun violence and the consequences of gun violence
- Innovation efforts focusing on novel public health and health care processes, policies, and intervention models to prevent gun shootings, including those that are self-inflicted and between intimate partners
The center will amplify its impact beginning with $1.3 million in funding and collaboration with nonprofit organizational partners with a shared interest in gun violence prevention research, innovation, and education.
Gun violence is a leading cause of premature death in the United States, claiming more than 45,000 lives each year and surpassing motor vehicle fatalities as the leading cause of injury death, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
"It is increasingly and distressingly clear that gun violence is a public health crisis in the U.S., claiming lives and creating trauma with untold, long-lasting consequences for countless people," said Bechara Choucair, MD, chief health officer and senior vice president for Community Health at Kaiser Permanente. "As a major health care organization caring for 12.6 million people, we are in a unique position to expand, amplify, and implement promising work underway by health care and public health leaders to prevent future gun-related injuries and deaths, starting with a series of grants to organizations focused on addressing gun violence."
The grants, to include distribution through Kaiser Permanente's fund at the East Bay Community Foundation, are laying the groundwork for the center's future collaboration with organizations that are addressing gun violence in its many forms across the United States. Grant partners include:
- The Ad Council — To scale the End Family Fire campaign, which promotes safe gun storage in order to prevent shootings involving unsecured or misused firearms
- Association of State and Territorial Health Officials (ASTHO) — To develop materials on evidence-based public health approaches to gun violence and suicide prevention, as well as to plan a national summit and develop collateral materials for broad use
- Big Cities Health Coalition — For public education on public health approaches to gun violence prevention
- Health Alliance for Violence Intervention (The HAVI) — To convene researchers and experts to study the effectiveness of hospital violence intervention programs (HVIPs) and their ability to break and prevent the cyclical nature of gun violence
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health - To support the Johns Hopkins Center for Gun Violence Solutions, including efforts to study the implementation of extreme risk protective orders and the role clinicians can play in raising awareness of these measures
- National Institute for Criminal Justice Reform (NICJR) — To provide core support for NICJR violence reduction initiatives in states impacted by increased rates of gun violence
- RAND Corporation — To support the 2022 National Research Conference on Firearm Injury Prevention, including dissemination of emerging research that focuses on gun violence prevention through care delivery innovation
- University of California, Davis — To provide core support for the Violence Prevention Research Program
- University of California, San Diego — To support the Center on Gender Equity and Health, including support for its "California Study on Violence Experiences Across the Lifespan" and related dissemination activities
"Through safe gun storage, we have the power to protect our loved ones from preventable tragedies," said Lisa Sherman, president and CEO of the Ad Council. "We applaud Kaiser Permanente for bringing organizations together so we can collectively reduce gun violence at scale. This funding will help us expand the reach of the End Family Fire campaign and continue to prevent the needless and tragic loss of lives due to unsecured firearms."
"Congratulations to Kaiser Permanente on the establishment of their Center for Gun Violence Research and Education. We're very grateful for their support and looking forward to expanding our research and education efforts," said Garen Wintemute, director of the UC Davis Violence Prevention Research Program. Dr. Wintemute is a professor of emergency medicine at UC Davis Health and a renowned expert on the public health crisis of gun violence.
The Center for Gun Violence Research and Education is building on Kaiser Permanente's pioneering work on gun violence as a public health issue, which began in 2018 with the formation of the Task Force on Firearm Injury Prevention and an accompanying $2 million in research funding to study clinical interventions to prevent gun injuries and deaths. The resulting research is examining the efficacy of clinical screening for firearm ownership, safe storage, and suicide prevention. That same year, Kaiser Permanente partnered with the American Hospital Association and the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine to host a first-of-its-kind workshop to look at the role that health systems can play in addressing firearm injury and death.
About Kaiser Permanente
Kaiser Permanente is committed to helping shape the future of health care. We are recognized as one of America's leading health care providers and not-for-profit health plans. Founded in 1945, Kaiser Permanente has a mission to provide high-quality, affordable health care services and to improve the health of our members and the communities we serve. We currently serve 12.6 million members in 8 states and the District of Columbia. Care for members and patients is focused on their total health and guided by their personal Permanente Medical Group physicians, specialists, and team of caregivers. Our expert and caring medical teams are empowered and supported by industry-leading technology advances and tools for health promotion, disease prevention, state-of-the-art care delivery, and world-class chronic disease management. Kaiser Permanente is dedicated to care innovations, clinical research, health education, and the support of community health.
For more information, contact:
Hilary Costa, hilary.c.costa@kp.org
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SOURCE Kaiser Permanente | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/06/16/kaiser-permanente-launches-new-center-gun-violence-research-education/ | 2022-06-16T17:15:25Z |
Elementary school teacher arrested for possession of ecstasy, police say
OCALA, Fla. (Gray News) – An elementary school teacher in Florida has been taken into custody for possession of MDMA, also known as ecstasy or Molly, after school administrators noticed her acting strangely during school hours, according to police.
The School Resource Officer at Hammett Bowen Elementary School in Ocala told the Marion County Sheriff’s Office he was notified by school administrators Tuesday about first-grade teacher Hiromi Adams. They reportedly told him she was exhibiting concerning behavior, and she was sent to the school’s clinic for a health checkup.
Other teachers reportedly said they had seen Adams going toward the bathroom before leaving the school and believed she may have been attempting to hide something in the bathroom before leaving.
The SRO and school administrators conducted a search of the bathroom, which is also used by students.
During the search, the SRO found a pill bottle with Adams’ name on it. The contents of the pill bottle included a red straw, half of a green pill and a small plastic baggie of green powder. When it was tested, police say the powder proved to be MDMA.
Adams was found off-campus by a Marion County Sheriff’s Office deputy and placed under arrest. When police searched Adams’ person, they said they also found Suboxone.
Adams was then taken to the Marion County Jail.
Copyright 2022 Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved. | https://www.wibw.com/2022/04/13/elementary-school-teacher-arrested-possession-ecstasy-police-say/ | 2022-04-13T22:58:42Z |
Conference Call and Live Audio Webcast Scheduled for Thursday, August 11, 2022, at 10:00 a.m. ET
Corporate Highlights
- Celebrated 10th anniversary as a life science focused specialty finance company catering to small- and mid-sized commercial-stage companies
- Added to Russell 3000® Index, Russell 2000® Index and Russell Microcap® Index
- During the second quarter of 2022, $2.6 million was funded to existing borrowers
- Subsequent to quarter end, closed a new transaction, deploying $5.0 million
- SWK well positioned for current capital markets environment with cash and unfunded credit facility availability totaling $77.1 million as of June 30, 2022
Finance Receivables Segment Update
- For the three months ended June 30, 2022, GAAP net income was $0.6 million, or $0.04 per diluted share, a 96.0% decrease from June 30, 2021
- As of June 30, 2022, non-GAAP tangible finance book value per share was $18.48, a 7.2% increase from June 30, 2021
- Second quarter 2022 finance portfolio effective yield was 14.2%, a 2.0% increase compared with 13.9% for the second quarter 2021
- Second quarter 2022 finance portfolio realized yield was 15.0%, a 790 bps year-over-year decrease
- Second quarter 2022 core finance receivables business adjusted non-GAAP net income was $4.6 million, a 50.3% decrease from the second quarter of 2021
- As of June 30, 2022, total investment assets were $181.4 million, a 14.8% decrease from June 30, 2021
- During the second quarter of 2022, $17.2 million of principal payments and royalty paydowns were received, bringing total loan and royalty repayments to $78.7 million over the last twelve months
- For the trailing twelve months ended June 30, 2022, SWK's core finance receivables segment generated a 12.1% adjusted return on tangible book value
DALLAS, Aug. 10, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- SWK Holdings Corporation (Nasdaq: SWKH) ("SWK" or the "Company"), a life science focused specialty finance company catering to small- and mid-sized commercial-stage companies, today provided a business update and announced its financial and operating results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2022.
"Over the past several quarters, SWK has had several successful payoffs in the portfolio, which we believe provide a strong endorsement of the innovation we support through our investments. While this, combined with our disciplined underwriting philosophy, led to a material decline in the size of our aggregate portfolio and a corresponding decrease in revenues year over year, we believe our focused stewardship of our shareholders' capital has provided an important benefit going forward – well positioning our balance sheet for the current environment," stated Winston Black, Chairman and CEO of SWK. "During the second quarter, SWK evaluated numerous life science financing opportunities with a focus on high quality assets that, we believe, are positioned to weather the current market volatility and challenging capital market environment. We believe these efforts will lead to additional closed financings in the second half of 2022."
Mr. Black continued, "Our capital position is strong with $55.1 million in cash and an untapped $22.0 million credit facility as of June 30, 2022. Our current liquidity and anticipated debt capital raise efforts will give us greater capacity to execute on new investment opportunities where our creative, non-dilutive financing can accelerate the growth of small and mid-sized life sciences companies and fuel the development and commercialization of lifesaving and life-enhancing technologies. The stock repurchase program SWK re-instituted during the quarter also reflects the Board of Director's confidence in our strategy and financial position and illustrates our ongoing commitment to accretive capital deployment."
Mr. Black concluded, "At the close of the second quarter, SWK was added to the Russell 2000, 3000 and Microcap Indexes, a catalyst that should expand awareness of our company within the investment community, increase liquidity of our stock, and broaden our shareholder base. Further, we recently celebrated our 10th anniversary under our current business strategy. Reflecting on the past 10 years, I am pleased to note that since the fourth quarter of 2012 we have produced consistent returns on our investments and to our shareholders with our book value per share increasing at a 10% compound annual growth rate. Looking ahead, our strategy will continue to focus on identifying companies, technologies and intellectual property to which our investment vehicles are well-suited and where strong risk-adjusted returns are likeliest to be achieved, while working with the team at Enteris BioPharma to unlock additional opportunities for growth."
Second Quarter 2022 Financial Results
During the last twelve month period, there were $78.7 million of loan repayments and royalty paydowns, which were partially offset by $45.0 million of new investments. As a result, income-producing assets (defined as finance receivables and corporate debt securities) totaled $175.0 million as of June 30, 2022. This is a 13.9% decrease compared with income-producing assets of $203.2 million as of June 30, 2021. Total investment assets, which include income-producing assets plus equity-linked securities, totaled $181.4 million as of June 30, 2022, compared to the June 30, 2021 total investment assets of $213.0 million.
For the second quarter 2022, SWK reported total revenue of $6.9 million, a 68.8% decrease compared to $22.3 million for the second quarter 2021. The $15.4 million decrease in revenue consisted of a $10.3 million decrease in Pharmaceutical Development segment revenue, which included $10.0 million of milestone revenue related to Enteris' License Agreement with Cara Therapeutics, Inc. received during the three months ended June 30, 2021, which did not recur during the three months ended June 30, 2022. Finance Receivables segment revenue decreased $5.0 million year-over-year to $6.8 million, with the decrease consisting of a $3.1 million decrease in interest and fees earned on finance receivables that were either paid off or paid down since the second quarter of 2021 and a $4.0 million decrease in net royalty income primarily due to the achievement of return premiums that caused a step down in royalty rates. The decrease in revenue was partially offset by a $2.1 million increase in interest and fees earned due to funding new and existing loans.
Income before taxes for the quarter was $0.7 million compared to $17.5 million for the same period the previous year, a decrease of 96%. The year-over-year decrease is due to a $10.3 million decrease in income from our Pharmaceutical Development segment and a $5.0 million decrease in income from our Finance Receivables segment. The decrease in income before income taxes was also due to a $1.0 million net loss on the change in fair value of our warrant assets and marketable investments. The decrease was partially offset by a $0.5 million decrease in expenses.
GAAP net income for the quarter ended June 30, 2022, decreased 96% to $0.6 million, or $0.04 per diluted share, from $14.0 million, or $1.09 per diluted share for the second quarter 2021.
For the second quarter 2022, non-GAAP adjusted net income was $2.2 million, a decrease from $17.2 million for the second quarter 2021. Non-GAAP adjusted net income for the Finance Receivables segment was $4.6 million, a decrease from $9.3 million for the second quarter 2021.
Book value per share was $21.15 as of June 30, 2022, compared to $20.18 as of June 30, 2021. Tangible financing book value per share totaled $18.48 as of June 30, 2022, a 7.2% increase from $17.23 as of June 30, 2021. Management views tangible financing book value per share as a relevant metric to value the Company's core finance receivable business. Tangible book value per share removes the value of the deferred tax asset from the book value.
Tables detailing SWK's financial performance for the second quarter 2022 are below.
Portfolio Status
At the end of the second quarter 2022, the weighted average projected effective yield of 14.2% for the finance receivables portfolio, including non-accrual positions, increased from 13.9% for the same period of the previous year. The projected effective yield is the rate at which income is expected to be recognized pursuant to the Company's revenue recognition policies, if all payments are received pursuant to the terms of the finance receivables and excludes non-interest earning assets such as warrants and equity investments.
For the second quarter 2022, the realized yield of the finance receivables portfolio was 15.0%, versus 22.9% for the same period the previous year. The realized yield is inclusive of all fees, including all realized unamortized fees, amendment fees, and prepayment fees, and is calculated based on the simple average of finance receivables at the beginning and end of the period. The realized yield is greater than the effective yield due to actual cash collections being greater than modeled.
Non-accrual loans totaled $9.8 million, while non-accrual royalty purchases, net of credit loss allowances, totaled $3.1 million. The $9.8 million loan to Flowonix Medical Inc. remains on non-accrual, and SWK continues to work with the company to achieve a resolution.
Subsequent to quarter end, SWK deployed $5.0 million in a structured debt transaction to Exeevo, Inc., while SWK royalties Beleodaq® and Trio were fully satisfied by achieving their respective multiple of invested capital caps. As of August 9, 2022, SWK had $3.9 million of unfunded commitments.
Total portfolio investment activity for the three months ended June 30, 2022, and 2021 was as follows (in thousands):
Adjusted Non-GAAP Net Income
The following table provides a reconciliation of SWK's reported (GAAP) consolidated net income to SWK's adjusted consolidated net income (Non-GAAP) for the three-month period ended June 30, 2022 and 2021. The table eliminates provisions for income taxes, non-cash mark-to-market changes on warrant assets and equity securities, amortization of Enteris intangible assets and any non-cash impact on the remeasurement of contingent consideration.
In the table above, management has deducted the following non-cash items: (i) change in the fair-market value of equities and warrants, as mark-to-market changes are non-cash, (ii) income taxes, as the Company has substantial net operating losses to offset against future income, (iii) amortization expense associated with Enteris intangible assets, and (iv) (gain) loss on remeasurement of contingent consideration.
Finance Receivables Adjusted Non-GAAP Net Income
The following table provides a reconciliation of SWK's consolidated adjusted income before provision for income taxes, listed in the table above, to the non-GAAP adjusted net income for the Finance Receivable segment for the three-month period ended June 30, 2022 and 2021. The table eliminates Enteris operating (income) loss. The adjusted income before income taxes is derived in the table above and eliminates income tax expense, non-cash mark-to-market changes on warrant assets and equity securities.
Conference Call Information
SWK Holdings will host a conference call and live audio webcast on Thursday, August 11, 2022, at 10:00 a.m. ET, to discuss its corporate and financial results for the second quarter 2022. Interested participants and investors may access the conference call by dialing either:
(844) 378-6488 (U.S.)
(412) 317-1079 (International)
Passcode: 10166330
An audio webcast will be accessible via the Investors Events & Presentations section of the SWK Holdings' website: https://swkhold.investorroom.com/events. An archive of the webcast will remain available for 90 days beginning at approximately 11:30 a.m. ET, on August 11, 2022.
Non-GAAP Financial Measures
This release includes non-GAAP adjusted net income and non-GAAP finance receivable segment net income, which are metrics that are not compliant with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States (GAAP).
Non-GAAP adjusted net income is adjusted for certain items (including (i) changes in the fair-market value of public equity-related assets and SWK's warrant assets as mark-to-market changes are non-cash, (ii) income taxes as the Company has substantial net operating losses to offset against future income, (iii) changes in the fair-market value of contingent consideration associated with the Enteris acquisition as these changes are non-cash, and (iv) depreciation and amortization expenses, primarily associated with the Enteris acquisition.
In addition to the adjustments noted above, non-GAAP finance receivable segment net income also excludes Enteris operating losses.
Tangible financing book value per share excludes the deferred tax asset, intangible assets, goodwill, Enteris PP&E, and contingent consideration associated with the Enteris transaction. Adjusted return on tangible financing book value is calculated by dividing finance receivables segment adjusted non-GAAP net income by tangible financing book value.
These non-GAAP measures may not be directly comparable to similar measures used by other companies in our industry, as other companies may define such measures differently. Management believes that these measures are useful to investors and management in understanding our ongoing operations and in analysis of ongoing operating trends and provides useful additional information relating to our operations and financial condition. These metrics should be considered in addition to, and not as a replacement for, the most comparable GAAP measure.
About SWK Holdings Corporation
SWK Holdings Corporation is a specialized finance company with a focus on the global healthcare sector. SWK partners with ethical product marketers and royalty holders to provide flexible financing solutions at an attractive cost of capital to create long-term value for both SWK's business partners and its investors. SWK believes its financing structures achieve an optimal partnership for companies, institutions and inventors seeking capital for expansion or capital and estate planning by allowing its partners to monetize future cash flow with minimal dilution to their equity stakes. SWK also owns Enteris BioPharma, whose Peptelligence® and ProPerma® drug delivery technologies create oral formulations of peptide-based and BCS class II, III, and IV small molecules. With Enteris, SWK has the opportunity to grow its finance business by actively building a wholly-owned portfolio of milestones and royalties through licensing activities. Additional information on the life science finance market is available on the Company's website at www.swkhold.com.
Safe Harbor Statement
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Statements including words such as "believes," "expects," "anticipates," "intends," "estimates," "plan," "will," "may," "look forward," "intend," "guidance," "future" or similar expressions are forward-looking statements. Because these statements reflect SWK's current views, expectations and beliefs concerning future events, these forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties. Investors should note that many factors, as more fully described under the caption "Risk Factors" and elsewhere in SWK's Form 10-K, Form 10-Q and Form 8-K filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission and as otherwise enumerated herein, could affect the Company's future financial results and could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in such forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements in this press release are qualified by these risk factors. These are factors that, individually or in the aggregate, could cause the Company's actual results to differ materially from expected and historical results. You should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date they are made. We assume no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise.
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SOURCE SWK Holdings Corporation | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/08/10/swk-holdings-corporation-announces-financial-results-second-quarter-2022/ | 2022-08-10T21:02:57Z |
EL SEGUNDO, Calif., Aug. 29, 2022 /PRNewswire/ - Neopets today began updating individuals through its communication channels regarding a data incident that may have affected players' information. Neopets previously communicated about this incident to players on July 21, 2022, and August 1, 2022. This notice provides details about the incident, our response, and available resources. Additional information about this incident is also available on our website www.neopets.com.
On July 20, 2022, Neopets was alerted to activity indicating unauthorized access by a third party to our IT systems. We took immediate steps to shut down further access to the affected systems and we have not seen any unauthorized activity since that time. We also launched an investigation assisted by a leading forensics firm and engaged with law enforcement. On August 10, 2022, Neopets determined that the event resulted in unauthorized access to, and in some cases, download of, player personal information.
After our investigation, we have determined that for past and present Neopets players, affected information may include the data provided when registering for or playing Neopets, including name, email address, username, date of birth, gender, IP address, Neopets PIN, hashed password, as well as data about a player's pet, game play, and other information provided to Neopets. For players that played prior to 2015, the information also could have included non-hashed, but inactive, passwords. This information appears to have been accessed and potentially downloaded between January 3-February 5, 2021, or July 16-19, 2022.
We do not store users' government issued identification numbers, bank account information, or payment card information.
Neopets is committed to safeguarding our players' personal information. As part of our ongoing commitment to the safety and privacy of the Neopets' player information in our care, we have reset players' passwords and are working on adding multi-factor authentication to better safeguard your account access. We have also enhanced the protection of our systems, including by further strengthening our network monitoring, authentication, and system protection.
If you used your Neopets password on other websites, we recommend that you change your passwords for those accounts as well. In general, it is a good idea to use different passwords across different applications and choose strong passwords.
In addition to changing your passwords, we recommend you do the following:
- While we are not aware of any misuse of your information, it is always a good practice to remain vigilant against threats of identity theft or fraud, and to regularly review and monitor your account statements and credit history for any signs of unauthorized transactions or activity. If you ever suspect that you are the victim of identity theft or fraud, you can contact your local police.
- Additionally, it is always a good idea to be alert for "phishing" emails by someone who acts like they know you or are a company that you may do business with and requests sensitive information over email, such as passwords, government identification numbers, or bank account information.
If you have questions regarding this notice, we invite you to reach out to us through our normal support channels with any questions or concerns you might have regarding this incident or the security of your account. Additional information about this incident is also available on our website www.neopets.com.
Launched in 1999, Neopets.com has been the most popular virtual pet site for the past two decades. Through a variety of mini-games, an expansive world to discover, a burgeoning community, and a robust virtual economy, players can explore, interact and engage with other Neopians in the lore and storied history of Neopia. The Neopets Community, like the game itself, is distinct, bold, and energetic, and enhances the overall experience of Neopets.com. To learn more about Neopets, please follow us on Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube.
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SOURCE Neopets | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/08/29/neopets-provides-notice-data-breach/ | 2022-08-29T22:03:38Z |
NEWPORT NEWS, Va., June 21, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- BayPort Credit Union is pleased to announce it has been named to Forbes' annual list of America's Best-In-State Credit Unions for the second straight year. BayPort is ranked #1 in this year's listing and one of only five Virginia credit unions making the list.
Forbes identified its Best-In-State Credit Unions based on an independent survey of approximately 26,000 U.S. consumers who were asked to rate credit unions at which they currently have or previously had checking accounts. Credit unions were scored on overall member satisfaction, and in the following areas: Trust, Terms & Conditions, Branch Services, Digital Services, Customer Service, and Financial Advice.
Of the more than 5,000 credit unions nationwide, just 171 unique credit unions made the Forbes' list methodology. The complete list of America's Best-In-State Credit Unions is now available online.
To read more about BayPort's recent awards and designations, please visit bayportcu.org.
About BayPort
In 1928, nine shipyard workers from Newport News Shipbuilding formed an organization with a specific purpose as a low-interest source of loans and a trusted place to deposit money. Today, BayPort Credit Union is rated a Superior 5-Star credit union by Bauer Financial, managing $2.2 billion in assets and servicing nearly 148,000 individuals and businesses with 27 branch locations across the Virginia Peninsula and Southside communities. Visit us at www.bayportcu.org.
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SOURCE BayPort Credit Union | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/06/21/forbes-best-in-state-ranks-bayport-credit-union-1-virginia/ | 2022-06-21T21:20:08Z |
LOS ANGELES, June 6, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Paul Hastings, a global law firm with elite teams in real estate, finance, restructuring, mergers and acquisitions, private equity and litigation, today announced that Pablo Clarke, a prominent real estate finance partner, has joined the firm's Real Estate practice in Los Angeles from Latham & Watkins, LLP.
Pablo has established a highly respected practice advising leading private equity firms, financial institutions, real estate investment trusts (REITs) and corporations on real estate and finance transactions, including mortgage and mezzanine financing, preferred equity transactions, corporate REIT financing, acquisitions and dispositions, acquisition financing, joint ventures, and commercial leasing.
"Pablo is one of the truly elite practitioners able to deliver high-value solutions to clients in the most complex and fast-moving transactions in real estate and finance," said Seth Zachary, chairman of Paul Hastings. "His unique combination of exceptional real estate acumen and a diversified practice serving private equity funds, REITS and other investors, places him in the highest echelons of our profession and we're delighted to welcome him to the firm."
"Paul Hastings' global platform and elite practitioners across all areas of real estate, finance, capital markets, restructuring and structured credit is an ideal place to grow my practice alongside phenomenal colleagues," said Pablo. "This is an ideal time to join a firm like Paul Hastings that is primed to accelerate growth in the years ahead," he added.
Eric Landau, chair of Paul Hastings' Real Estate practice, noted that "Pablo's addition will help bolster our strength in real estate finance and provide synergies with our clients across a variety of real estate asset classes, including office, industrial, raw land, retail, hospitality, single and multifamily developments, and medical."
Paul Hastings is one of the pre-eminent Finance practices in the world, representing nearly every major bank as well as the largest and most high-profile asset managers and sovereign wealth funds.
Following a record year in 2021, Paul Hastings' growth story continues with the firm making strategic investments that take advantage of macroeconomic and geopolitical trends, including the addition of an elite 18-partner financial restructuring group and a premier team specializing in Projects, Project Finance, and Energy Transition and Infrastructure. The firm also continues to grow its top tier practices in Fintech and Investigations and White Collar Defense with the additions of Leo Tsao and Laurel Loomis Rimon in Washington, D.C.
Dedicated to providing intellectual capital and superior execution to the world's leading Wall Street and global investment banks, asset managers and corporations achieve their business and legal goals, Paul Hastings is a premier global finance law firm with elite teams in finance, mergers and acquisitions, private equity, and litigation. We are one of only a handful of law firms ranked across multiple core finance areas including: structured credit, leveraged finance, private credit, capital markets, and real estate finance.
Paul Hastings is ranked as one of the top firms in the world in The American Lawyer's "Premier League" for momentum, profit and prestige amongst firms in the 2022 American Lawyer 100.
CONTACT: Rebecca Hatton, rebeccahatton@paulhastings.com
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SOURCE Paul Hastings LLP | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/06/06/real-estate-finance-rising-star-pablo-clarke-joins-paul-hastings-latham-amp-watkins/ | 2022-06-06T15:59:51Z |
Oklahoma woman, 61, killed by pack of dogs, sheriff says
NEWALLA, Okla. (KOCO) - Authorities in Oklahoma are looking for a dangerous pack of dogs they say attacked and killed a 61-year-old woman.
Authorities say 61-year-old Anita Mears was killed in a vicious attack by a pack of dogs Sunday in rural Newalla, Oklahoma. The investigation started with deputies thinking they were looking into a stabbing, but the coroner’s office said Mears’ wounds were dog bites.
“Our heart goes out to her family. Life is precious, and it’s sad when we lose one, especially in this fashion,” Sheriff Tommie Johnson III said.
Mears’ own dog was found standing guard over her body.
“Ms. Mears’ dog was also injured in the attack. We believe that the dog was trying to protect her,” Johnson said.
Authorities say they don’t know where the dogs that attacked Mears are now. They are warning the public of what they call a dangerous pack of dogs possibly roaming the area.
“You talk about how in any rural part of the community, dogs, they get let loose out there and then they group up and they just run like pack animals. So, it is very common to see a pack of dogs running around,” Johnson said.
The sheriff’s office is warning people to stay away from any dogs they aren’t already familiar with, as they don’t want another tragedy. They ask anyone who sees a pack to call police.
Copyright 2022 KOCO via CNN Newsource. All rights reserved. | https://www.kxii.com/2022/04/27/oklahoma-woman-61-killed-by-pack-dogs-sheriff-says/ | 2022-04-27T09:33:06Z |
NEAR THE POLISH-UKRAINIAN BORDER (AP) — The United States announced new military assistance for Ukraine and a renewed diplomatic push in the war-ravaged nation as President Joe Biden’s secretary of state and Pentagon chief completed a secrecy-shrouded trip to Kyiv.
In the highest-level American visit to the capital since Russia invaded in late February, top envoy Antony Blinken and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin told Ukraine’s president, Volodomyr Zelenskyy, and his advisers that the U.S. would provide more than $300 million in foreign military financing and had approved a $165 million sale of ammunition.
They also said Biden would soon announce his nominee to be ambassador to Ukraine and that American diplomats who left Ukraine before the war would start returning to the country this coming week. The U.S. Embassy in Kyiv will remain closed for the moment.
Zelenskyy had announced Saturday that he would meet with the U.S. officials in Kyiv on Sunday, but the Biden administration refused to confirm that and declined to discuss details of a possible visit even though planning had been underway for more than a week.
Journalists who traveled with Austin and Blinken to Poland were barred from reporting on the trip until it was over, were not allowed to accompany them on their overland journey into Ukraine, and were prohibited from specifying where in southeast Poland they waited for the Cabinet members to return. Officials at the State Department and the Pentagon cited security concerns.
Austin and Blinken announced a total of $713 million in foreign military financing for Ukraine and 15 allied and partner countries; some $322 million is earmarked for Kyiv. The remainder will be split among NATO members and other nations that have provided Ukraine with critical military supplies since the war with Russia began, officials said.
Such financing is different from previous U.S. military assistance for Ukraine. It is not a donation of drawn-down U.S. Defense Department stockpiles, but rather cash that countries can use to purchase supplies that they might need.
The new money, along with the sale of $165 million in non-U.S. made ammunition that is compatible with Soviet-era weapons the Ukrainians use, brings the total amount of American military assistance to Ukraine to $3.7 billion since the invasion, officials said.
Zelenskyy had urged the Americans not to come empty-handed. U.S. officials said they believed the new assistance would satisfy at least some of the Ukrainians’ urgent pleas for more help. New artillery, including howitzers, continues to be delivered at a rapid pace to Ukraine’s military, which is being trained on its use in neighboring countries, the officials said.
On the diplomatic front, Blinken told Zelenskyy that Biden will announce his nomination of veteran diplomat Bridget Brink to be the next U.S. ambassador to Ukraine. A career foreign service officer, Brink has served since 2019 as ambassador to Slovakia. She previously held assignments in Serbia, Cyprus, Georgia and Uzbekistan as well as with the White House National Security Council. The post requirements confirmation by the U.S. Senate.
Blinken also told Ukraine’s foreign minister that the small staff from the now-shuttered U.S. Embassy in Kyiv, which has relocated to Poland from temporary offices in the western Ukrainian city of Lviv, would begin making day trips to Lviv in the coming days. Officials said the U.S. had accelerated its review of security conditions in the capital and that the State Department will reopen the embassy there as soon as the situation allows.
Biden has accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of genocide for the destruction and death wrought on Ukraine. Just on Thursday, Biden said he would provide a new package of $800 million in military aid to Ukraine that included heavy artillery and drones.
Congress approved $6.5 billion for military assistance last month as part of $13.6 billion in spending for Ukraine and allies in response to the Russian invasion.
From Poland, Blinken plans to return to Washington while Austin will head to Ramstein, Germany, for a meeting Tuesday of NATO defense ministers and other donor countries.
That discussion will look at battlefield updates from the ground, additional security assistance for Ukraine and longer-term defense needs in Europe, including how to step up military production to fill gaps caused by the war in Ukraine, officials said. More than 20 nations are expected to send representatives to the meeting. | https://cw33.com/news/politics/ap-politics/in-kyiv-blinken-and-austin-announce-aid-diplomatic-surge/ | 2022-04-25T05:35:05Z |
With a focus on growing its portfolio of innovative pool brands, Explore Industries enhances its vision for global business development with the appointment of a new C-level officer.
KNOXVILLE, Tenn., April 12, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- As a leader in the global pool industry with premium fiberglass pool brands such as Leisure Pools, Imagine Pools, Aviva Pools, pool cover brands of Integra Pool Covers and Nova Pool Covers and pool service franchise, Ultra Pool Care Squad, Explore Industries is pleased to announce Tammy Evans joining our team as Global Chief Financial Officer.
A Financial Management and Accounting Executive, Evans spent the past 12 years with IBM developing an impressive background across U.S., EMEA (Europe Middle East Africa), and Australian regions transforming the economic outlook of multibillion dollar organizations through strategic financial planning, business transformation, performance optimization, and team building.
"We are excited to have Tammy join the team," said David Pain, Global Chief Executive Officer of Explore Industries. "She brings comprehensive experience and achievements to our organization that greatly complement our performance-driven culture. Her reputation for delivering results and her track record as a global financial leader make her the ideal choice to help lead the charge with our company's financial future."
Evans brings to Explore Industries over two decades of global experience in transforming the financial outlook of multibillion dollar operations. She plans to transition her global experience and knowledge to her new role as Global Chief Financial Officer to further elevate the financial status of Explore Industries.
"This is an excellent opportunity for me to apply my experiences across many industries and geographies and across accounting, auditing, finance and treasury to help this high growth and industry-leading company and its management team," expressed Evans. "I am excited to be a part of Explore Industries as it continues to grow and expand its market leadership."
Evans' focus will be directed on establishing a best-in-class, worldwide finance and accounting organization, positioning Explore Industries and its robust portfolio of proven brands for future growth.
Explore Industries
World Headquarters
2901 Leisure Island Way, Knoxville, TN 37914
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SOURCE Explore Industries | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/04/12/explore-industries-announces-new-global-chief-financial-officer/ | 2022-04-12T13:09:53Z |
SHENZHEN, China, June 28, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- On June 27, "2022 Qianhai Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao-Taiwan Youth Innovation and Entrepreneurship Competition" was officially kicked off, marking the start of series of activities "Shenzhen-Hong Kong Cooperation to Create the Future" to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the return of Hong Kong to the motherland, according to Authority of Qianhai Shenzhen-Hong Kong Modern Service Industry Cooperation Zone.
For many ambitious young people, this promises more opportunities and a better start. Sunny Zhou, a young lady from Guangdong, is director of a Macao-funded company. Her project won the silver medal in the finals of the competition last year. "The contest has provided us an opportunity to meet many industry experts and entrepreneurial partners from different places, and has brought us new ideas for entrepreneurship," said Sunny Zhou.
To provide greater support to participants, this year's competition is fully upgraded. The winning projects can directly advance to the Industry Finals of China (Shenzhen) Innovation and Entrepreneurship Competition. Professional mentors are introduced to provide one-on-one counseling. Besides, the winners can be given priority to settle in Qianhai Shenzhen-Hong Kong Youth Innovation and Entrepreneur Hub (QSHKYIEH) and enjoy relevant preferential policies. The event will also carry out activities such as Creator Camp, Entrepreneurial Counseling Sessions and Investment Matchmaking Sessions to build a good platform for the youth to communicate, cooperate and advance. The competition has set four sub-regions, with a total prize of more than CNY7 million.
The event has been held for six consecutive years since 2016, taking in altogether about 6,000 entries, including nearly 3,000 from Hong Kong, Macao and other places. By promoting the transformation of relevant scientific and technological achievements, Qianhai has become a "dream-big place" for many youths.
Lee Jee Bong from Hong Kong, who has once taken part in the contest, is one of such entrepreneurs in Qianhai. Last year, the project of his company was awarded the silver prize in the Enterprise Growth Category of the competition finals. "The technical requirements of our product are high, and we need plenty of professional talents. Qianhai has policies and services appealing to talents, so excellent heads and minds gather. It is easy to get access to the Greater Bay Area and the broader domestic market. That's why we are based here," said Lee Jee Bong.
"QSHKYIEH is where our dream started and will be the place where we can fulfill our dream," said Lee Jee Bong. The QSHKYIEH he mentioned is well-renowned in Hong Kong's entrepreneurial youth circle and considered by many Hong Kongers as the first choice to start a business. Here, a whole chain of innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem has been established with "six chains in one": innovative chain, industrial chain, capital chain, policy chain, information chain and talent chain, and a large number of young entrepreneurial teams from Hong Kong have concentrated here. By the end of May, 2022, QSHKYIEH has incubated a total of 591 entrepreneurial teams. Recently, Qianhai continues to advance the construction of various areas for the QSHKYIEH to provide more space for young entrepreneurial people; meanwhile, a series of support measures such as issuing special support funds for Hong Kong and Macao youth, implementing 15% corporate income tax, foreign investment incentives, office rent subsidies, etc. to shore up youth entrepreneurship.
At the launching ceremony of the competition, Qianhai released nine practical benefits for Hong Kongers, covering housing, entrepreneurship, services, employment, platform, scientific innovation, finance, settlement, livelihood, etc., aiming to provide comprehensive support for Hong Kongers and Hong Kong enterprises to develop in Qianhai, and to provide facilitations for youths to do business in Shenzhen.
"Qianhai is the bridgehead of Hong Kong-Shenzhen cooperation and the first stop for Hong Kong youth to develop in the mainland. I hope more Hong Kong youth can pursue their dreams and fulfill them in Qianhai and the Greater Bay Area," said Kenneth Fok Kai-kong, a member of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference and a member of the Hong Kong Legislative Council, at the launch ceremony.
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SOURCE Authority of Qianhai Shenzhen-Hong Kong Modern Service Industry Cooperation Zone | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/06/28/youths-dream-big-qianhai-integrating-into-greater-bay-area/ | 2022-06-28T09:45:34Z |
Validus platform also to support ACX derivatives market when launched
NEW YORK, ABU DHABI, SINGAPORE and LONDON, Aug. 16, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Eventus, a leading global provider of multi-asset class trade surveillance and market risk solutions, and AirCarbon Exchange (ACX), the global exchange revolutionizing the Voluntary Carbon Market (VCM), today announced that ACX has selected Eventus as its partner to introduce the first comprehensive market surveillance program for the VCM, which was created to drive financing activities that reduce greenhouse gas emissions globally.
ACX will use the Eventus Validus platform for trade surveillance, transaction monitoring and anti-money laundering (AML) in its spot and forthcoming derivatives markets globally.
Due to the emerging nature of carbon credits as an asset class, markets for carbon credits currently operate without the controls of more conventional financial instruments such as commodity derivatives. ACX launched in 2019 with a vision of bringing efficiency and liquidity to these voluntary markets, as well as to increase transparency and trust to levels seen in more established markets.
Thomas McMahon, CEO and Co-Founder of ACX said: "A key principle of ACX's vision is our decision to partner with Eventus to develop, for the first time in the history of the VCM, a comprehensive market surveillance platform to monitor prohibited activities such as market manipulation or money laundering. With trade surveillance set to go live on ACX later this year, we expect that the enhanced integrity that this provides will further open up the Voluntary Carbon Market to as broad a range of participants as possible and hence increase the necessary investment in global carbon reduction and offset programs."
ACX undertook a "rigorous assessment process" for potential trade surveillance partners, not only considering whether the system could appropriately support ACX's market, but also whether it would allow ACX to meet all of its regulatory requirements on an ongoing basis in the multiple jurisdictions in which it operates. As a soon-to-be fully regulated Investment Exchange by the Financial Services Regulatory Authority in the Abu Dhabi Global Market, ACX is required to operate an effective market surveillance and transaction monitoring program to identify, record, detect and prevent conduct amounting to market misconduct and/or "financial crime," such as any attempt to breach international sanctions.
McMahon said: "Given the nascent nature and constant pace of development of the VCM, ACX required a market surveillance partner that not only provides a robust service but is agile enough to be regularly enhanced and refined as these markets grow and evolve. We identified Eventus as the partner best able to allow us to meet these requirements, particularly given the experienced team and flexibility of the Validus platform, enabling us to easily customize it to our unique requirements. Validus is also able to support both our established spot market for voluntary carbon credits, alongside the related derivative contracts that ACX intends to launch next year."
Eventus CEO Travis Schwab said: "It's truly exciting for us to play a role in ensuring the safety of these important markets, which can help attract liquidity as well as reinforce investor confidence. AirCarbon Exchange is leading the way – particularly in markets such as Singapore, the UAE and Africa – in establishing a robust carbon offset marketplace that can stand the test of time and grow, making a significant contribution to the future of our planet. Our deep experience in established markets, as well as more emerging exchange venues, enables us to offer ACX expertise, along with the full functionality and scalability of the Validus platform, as the exchange seeks to grow and promote further adoption of this valuable emissions-reducing tool."
Eventus is a leading global provider of multi-asset class trade surveillance and market risk solutions. Its powerful, award-winning Validus platform is easy to deploy, customize and operate across equities, options, futures, foreign exchange (FX), fixed income and digital asset markets. Validus is proven in the most complex, high-volume and real-time environments of tier-1 banks, broker-dealers, futures commission merchants (FCMs), proprietary trading groups, market centers, buy-side institutions, energy and commodity trading firms, and regulators. The company's rapidly growing client base relies on Validus and Eventus' responsive support and product development teams to overcome its most pressing regulatory challenges. For more, visit www.eventus.com.
AirCarbon Exchange ("ACX") is a global exchange revolutionizing the voluntary carbon market. The Exchange's client base comprises corporate entities, financial traders, carbon project developers and other industry stakeholders. ACX provides its participants with an efficient and transparent trading platform which is easy to use, frictionless and with the lowest transaction fees available on the market. Its underlying distributed ledger technology will allow the carbon market to scale efficiently to meet global ambitions of Net Zero.
ACX was recognized as the Best Carbon Exchange globally in Environmental Finance's prestigious Voluntary Carbon Market Rankings 2021 - the largest and most closely watched survey of the world's Voluntary Carbon Market. ACX was also named as the 'Best Solution in Energy Trading' by Wired UK and Publicis Sapient at their Global EnergyTech Awards, which spotlighted the companies that are 'Winning the Race to Reinvent Energy'.
For more information or to trade carbon, please reach out to info@aircarbon.co or visit www.aircarbon.co.
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SOURCE Eventus; AirCarbon Exchange | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/08/16/aircarbon-exchange-selects-eventus-partner-introduce-first-comprehensive-market-surveillance-program-voluntary-carbon-market/ | 2022-08-16T04:14:39Z |
Kelowna, BC, May 25, 2022 /PRNewswire/ - The Valens Company Inc. (TSX: VLNS) (Nasdaq: VLNS) (the "Company" "The Valens Company" or "Valens"), a leading manufacturer of branded cannabis products, is pleased to provide an update on its recent recreational market share in Canada.
Tyler Robson, Chief Executive Officer of The Valens Company, said, "We continue to expand our recreational market share as we develop strength within our brand portfolio through products that continue to resonate with consumers. Furthermore, Valens was the fastest growing company among the top ten licensed producers by market share, seeing retail sales growth of 53.8% from November 2021 to April 2022 based on Hifyre data in Ontario, Alberta, British Columbia, and Saskatchewan. Importantly, we were able to grow our market share across all product categories and overall market share increased by 90 basis points from 2.5% in November 2021 to 3.4% in April 2022. We continue to grow faster than the average of our top ten competitors who collectively saw their market share decline over the same period. In short, we are on track to hit our 2022 objectives to become a top five player in vapes, edibles and beverages and a top ten player in flower products by year end."
Valens Market Share Summary:
Cannabis 1.0 Market Share Update2:
- Versus BC God Bud #1 best-selling SKU for four consecutive months in 2022 among all product categories in Ontario, Alberta, British Columbia, and Saskatchewan
- Launched Contraband infused pre-roll, Big Willie and Versus Super Lemon Haze Jar of J's in May 2022, which further positions Valens for potential market share growth in the pre-roll category in Q3
Cannabis 2.0 Market Share Update2:
- Versus Seltzers are now among the fastest growing cannabis-infused beverages with 505% provincial sales growth and 2.86% combined market share in Ontario, Alberta, British Columbia, and Saskatchewan since launching in January 2022
- Launched two new flavours of Versus Seltzers, Mango and Ruby Grapefruit in May 2022 arriving just in time for the summer season
- Launched 4 of the most affordable vape SKUs in the market under our Versus brand (Peach Dream, Dank Berry, Mad Mango, and Loud Lemon) which further positions Valens for potential market share growth in the vape category in Q3
At Valens, it's Personal.
The Valens Company is a leading manufacturer of cannabis products with a mission to bring the benefits of cannabis to the world. The Company provides proprietary cannabis processing services, in addition to best-in-class product development, manufacturing, and commercialization of cannabis consumer packaged goods. The Valens Company's high-quality products are formulated for the medical, health and wellness, and recreational consumer segments, and are offered across all cannabis product categories with a focus on quality and innovation. The Company also manufactures, distributes, and sells a wide range of CBD products in the United States through its subsidiary Green Roads, and distributes medicinal cannabis products to Australia. In partnership with brand houses, consumer packaged goods companies and licensed cannabis producers around the globe, the Company continues to grow its diverse product portfolio in alignment with evolving cannabis consumer preferences in key markets. Through Valens Labs, the Company is setting the standard in cannabis testing and research and development with Canada's only ISO17025 accredited analytical services lab, named The Centre of Excellence in Plant-Based Science by partner and scientific world leader Thermo Fisher Scientific. Discover more on The Valens Company at http://www.thevalenscompany.com.
Notice regarding Forward Looking Statements
All information included in this press release, including any information as to the future financial or operating performance and other statements of The Valens Company that express management's expectations or estimates of future performance, other than statements of historical fact, constitute forward-looking information or forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws and are based on expectations, estimates and projections as of the date hereof. Forward-looking statements are included for the purpose of providing information about management's current expectations and plans relating to the future. Wherever possible, words such as "plans", "expects", "scheduled", "trends", "forecasts", "future", "indications", "potential", "estimates", "predicts", "anticipate", "to establish", "believe", "intend", "ability to", or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "should", "could", "would", "might", "will", or are "likely" to be taken, occur or be achieved, or the negative of these words or other variations thereof, have been used to identify such forward-looking information. Specific forward-looking statements include, without limitation, all disclosure regarding future results of operations, future outcomes of transactions, economic conditions, and anticipated courses of action. Investors and other parties are advised that there is not necessarily any correlation between the number of SKUs manufactured and shipped and revenue and profit, and undue reliance should not be placed on such information.
The risks and uncertainties that may affect forward-looking statements include, among others, Canadian regulatory risk, Australian regulatory risk, U.S. regulatory risk, U.S. border crossing and travel bans, the uncertainties, effects of and responses to the COVID-19 pandemic, reliance on licenses, expansion of facilities, competition, dependence on supply of cannabis and reliance on other key inputs, dependence on senior management and key personnel, general business risk and liability, regulation of the cannabis industry, change in laws, regulations and guidelines, compliance with laws, limited operating history, vulnerability to rising energy costs, unfavourable publicity or consumer perception, product liability, risks related to intellectual property, product recalls, difficulties with forecasts, management of growth and litigation, many of which are beyond the control of The Valens Company. For a more comprehensive discussion of the risks faced by The Valens Company, and which may cause the actual financial results, performance or achievements of The Valens Company to be materially different from estimated future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by forward-looking information or forward-looking statements, please refer to The Valens Company's latest Annual Information Form filed with Canadian securities regulatory authorities at www.sedar.com or on The Valens Company's website at www.thevalenscompany.com. The risks described in such Annual Information Form are hereby incorporated by reference herein. Although the forward-looking statements contained herein reflect management's current beliefs and reasonable assumptions based upon information available to management as of the date hereof, The Valens Company cannot be certain that actual results will be consistent with such forward-looking information. The Valens Company cautions you not to place undue reliance upon any such forward-looking statements. The Valens 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 required by applicable law. Nothing herein should be construed as either an offer to sell or a solicitation to buy or sell securities of The Valens Company.
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SOURCE The Valens Company Inc. | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/05/25/valens-company-continues-expand-canadian-recreational-market-share-april/ | 2022-05-25T11:39:35Z |
MEDFORD, Ore., June 8, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Driveway, LAD's convenient and transparent way for consumers to shop, finance, and sell vehicles online, achieved a monthly volume milestone of 1,050 shop transactions in May. Driveway's monthly shop and sell transactions of 4,300 represents an over 51,000 transaction annual run-rate, considerably ahead of the 40,000 transactions originally targeted for 2022.
Driveway continues to deploy new functionality to innovate and enhance the consumer experience and expand LAD's reach, exceeding two million unique visitors in May.
"We are excited to report that Driveway reached the important 1,000 monthly unit shop milestone significantly faster than other used only e-retailers," said Bryan DeBoer, President and CEO of Lithia & Driveway. "Our Driveway Care Centers are performing exceptionally, and at two million plus visitors, we now have the top of funnel volume to reach our 2023 transaction expectations and are on our pathway to profitability in 2024."
LAD is a growth company focused on profitably consolidating the largest retail sector in North America through providing personal transportation solutions wherever, whenever, and however consumers desire.
Sites
www.lithia.com
www.investors.lithiadriveway.com
www.lithiacareers.com
www.driveway.com
www.greencars.com
www.drivewayfinancecorp.com
Lithia & Driveway on Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/LithiaMotors
https://www.facebook.com/DrivewayHQ
Lithia & Driveway on Twitter
https://twitter.com/lithiamotors
https://twitter.com/DrivewayHQ
https://twitter.com/GreenCarsHQ
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SOURCE Lithia Motors, Inc. | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/06/08/driveway-eclipses-key-monthly-transaction-unique-visitor-milestones/ | 2022-06-08T11:34:23Z |
AUSTIN (KXAN) — Democratic candidate for Texas governor, Beto O’Rourke, dropped an ‘F-Bomb’ this week during a passionate rebuttal of a protester at one of his campaign events.
“Now, 11 weeks since we lost 19 kids and their two teachers, shot to death with a weapon originally designed for use in combat,” O’Rourke said. “Legally purchased by an 18 year old who did try to obtain one when he was 16 or 17, but followed the law that’s on the books, ladies and gentlemen.”
At one point during his intense speech about the mass killing in Uvalde, along with his stance on gun control, a protester — who the O’Rourke campaign identified as a protester in support of opponent Texas Gov. Greg Abbott — laughed loudly.
“This individual is not in any way affiliated with [Abbott’s] campaign,” said Abbott’s Campaign Communication Director Mark Miner.
Regardless of who it was, O’Rourke whipped around, pointed at that man and said, “It may be funny to you motherf—-r, but it’s not funny to me, okay?” The crowd erupted in applause.
“When we think about the fall election, it’s all about turnout,” Brian Smith, a professor of political science at St. Edwards University, said. “So O’Rourke needs to find his voice if he’s going to beat Abbott. He’s trailing right now. He’s got to figure out a way to motivate his voters to come out and if cursing is working for him, then we might see more of it.”
It’s not the first time O’Rourke has cursed during campaign events, whether in relation to gun control, the media or other politicians. Smith said it’s a trend he’s seeing in politics — not just from O’Rourke, but others too.
“Sometimes it slips out,” he said. “So I don’t think it works like ‘oh, I’m going to use the F-bomb to try to get voters.’ I think it’s just in the heat of the moment. You use the word and sometimes, you know, in the heat of the moment, curse words are what we all resort to because they they have that effect.”
O’Rourke has advocated for reversing the state’s permitless carry law, pursuing red flag laws and banning AR-15-style weapons, among other gun control measures in the wake of the Uvalde shooting. It’s likely to be a pivotal part of his campaign as we move closer to the fall, but especially if the Texas power grid holds this summer, it won’t be enough to close the gap with Abbott, Smith said.
“He’s got to figure out in the next three months, what else does Beto O’Rourke bring to the table? If it’s just swearing and gun control, that’s not going to be enough to defeat Governor Abbott,” he said.
In the wake of the Uvalde shooting, despite immense pressure from Democrats to call a special session on gun control, Abbott pointed instead to improving Texas’ mental health system and lack of resources.
“Do we expect laws to come out of this devastating crime? The answer is absolutely yes. And there will be laws in multiple different subject areas. For example, I do fully expect to have every law that we pass in the aftermath of the Santa Fe shooting to be completely revisited,” Abbott has previously said.
As far as O’Rourke’s outburst, Abbott’s communications director did not comment, except to clarify the person in the crowd was not associated with the governor’s campaign.
“I think he’s just going to let this one go and say, when he runs his ads, just talking about ‘I am Greg Abbott, and here are my qualifications,'” Smith said.
Meanwhile, O’Rourke’s staff is leaning into his fiery, now viral, remarks.
“There’s nothing funny about 19 kids being shot to death in their classrooms, and there’s nothing okay about refusing to act so it doesn’t happen again,” said Chris Evans, communications director for O’Rourke. | https://cw33.com/news/texas/analysis-beto-orourke-drops-f-bomb-in-confrontation-with-heckler-over-gun-control/ | 2022-08-11T21:10:27Z |
NEW YORK, June 7, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Alba Wheels Up is pleased to welcome Joseph Milstein as its Chief Revenue Officer. Mr. Milstein is an industry veteran with more than 30 years of experience in international and domestic logistics and transportation. Throughout his career, he has repeatedly led commercial organizations to improved revenue growth and profitability.
Prior to joining Alba Wheels Up, Joseph served in senior leadership positions at APL Limited, APL Logistics, FMI International (Toll Global Forwarding), and Zim Integrated Shipping Services. Most recently, he led the growth and commercial efforts for two successful supply chain technology start-up companies, Leaf Logistics and Clockwork Logistics Systems.
Alba Wheels Up CEO, Damien Stile, commented, "As Alba Wheels Up continues to accelerate its growth rate, Joseph will play a key role in leading our revenue generation engine. We are thrilled to welcome someone with such deep industry and functional expertise, and we expect his impact to be immediate."
Joseph earned both Bachelor's and Master's degrees from NYU.
About Alba Wheels Up
Alba is a logistics company providing customs brokerage, freight forwarding, e-commerce, trade consulting, and other supply chain services for importers and exporters across diverse sectors including apparel, pharmaceuticals, industrial, and food and drugs. The company primarily operates out of its headquarters in Valley Stream, NY and has offices in California, New Jersey, and Texas. www.albawheelsup.com
For more information and media inquiries, please contact Gerardo Urbina at g.urbina@albawheelsup.com, (310) 410-8030.
Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/alba-wheels-up-intl-inc./
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SOURCE Alba Wheels Up International | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/06/07/alba-wheels-up-welcomes-new-cro-joseph-milstein/ | 2022-06-07T17:46:02Z |
El Paso border patrol agents continue to prepare for the moment of Title 42 lift
By Stephanie Muñiz
Click here for updates on this story
EL PASO, Texas (KOAT) — May 23, 2022, was the day Title 42 was supposed to be lifted but last week that changed with a Louisiana judge’s ruling to keep Title 42 in place.
Chihuahuita is an area of Downtown El Paso, according to Customs and Border Patrol of the El Paso Sector this is where people seeking asylum have been trying to surrender to border patrol agents although Title 42 is still in place.
The past year has been record-setting for border crossings with more than 194,000 encounters.
This year there has been a 56% increase in migrants compared to last year.
Carlos Rivera is a spokesperson for the El Paso, TX Customs and Border Patrol Sector, he said. “Since April began about 1,000 migrants a day- it is something historic for El Paso, 30,000 migrants a month and that flow has not stopped.”
The lift of Title 42 is something that could easily increase the number of people seeking asylum.
Rivera said, “We already knew that there was a possible migrant influx on the horizon and we were already making preparations.”
Rivera says they now have something called essential processing. It helps with the transfer of migrants between agencies. Part of the preparation for the lift also includes COVID-19 precautions.
“We are vaccinating here at the centralized processing center. can tell you that the migrants that we have in our facility are still placed with PPE,” Rivera said.
Although Title 42 is still in place there are still migrants trying to seek asylum.
Meanwhile, there are others trying to get in illegally.
Rivera said, “We still have the Sunland Park and Santa Teresa area where most of those migrants are trying to flee from agents and detection and arrests.”
In addition to Title 42 border patrol is still enforcing Title 8, that’s an immigration law that removes people that seek asylum that is not able to provide a valid asylum case.
The Department of Homeland Security has already redeployed more than 600 additional law enforcement to the border to help with any migrant influx.
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/news/2022/05/24/el-paso-border-patrol-agents-continue-to-prepare-for-the-moment-of-title-42-lift/ | 2022-05-24T20:56:21Z |
Charlotte County Sheriff seeking identity of burglar
Published: Apr. 11, 2022 at 12:36 PM EDT|Updated: 27 minutes ago
CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Fla. (WWSB) - The Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office is searching for a man who broke into a local business.
Officials say the man forced entry into Charlotte Harbor Exhaust on April 5 and helped himself to items located inside two vehicles.
Though the photos aren’t high quality, CCSO hopes someone will recognize the individual.
Please contact CCSO at 941-639-0013 with information or anyone who wishes to remain anonymous, and be eligible for a cash reward of up to $3,000, is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-780-TIPS (8477)
Copyright 2022 WWSB. All rights reserved. | https://www.mysuncoast.com/2022/04/11/charlotte-county-sheriff-seeking-identity-burglar/ | 2022-04-11T17:03:55Z |
Forges partnership between FLO and utilities across the United States
QUEBEC CITY, July 12, 2022 /PRNewswire/ - FLO President and CEO Louis Tremblay has been appointed to the board of directors for the Alliance for Transportation Electrification (ATE). The ATE is a consortium of over 50 utilities, automotive OEMs, Electric Vehicle (EV) vendors, and NGOs across North America working to increase EV adoption, support the role of utilities in transportation electrification, and champion open technology standards. Mr. Tremblay brings the perspective of a leading charging network operator and smart charging solutions provider to the board of directors.
"As FLO continues to expand across the United States, this appointment comes at the perfect time to deepen the collaboration between EV network operators and utilities to develop reliable charging networks built on open standards," said Louis Tremblay, FLO President and CEO. "I am excited to join the ATE team and look forward to working with our partners in our united mission to accelerate EV adoption."
While sales of EV continue to increase, access to reliable charging stations is still one of the biggest barriers to EV adoption. Furthermore, competing technology protocols have slowed standardization of EV charging technology, complicating the consumer experience. Tremblay's appointment, effective since the ATE's board meeting of June 27, 2022 in Charlotte N.C., is expected to strengthen the ATE's ability to build out a charging network with leading uptime and address infrastructure gaps to ease range and time anxiety.
"Louis brings a fresh voice that will help our members accelerate the deployment of EV infrastructure and create a convenient, open, and reliable charging network in communities and corridors across North America," said Mark Fronmuller, board chairman of the ATE. "We are delighted to welcome him to our ATE Board of Directors and look forward to working together collaboratively across many states and local governments to build out charging station infrastructure that reflects our big tent philosophy."
As more Americans continue adopting EVs, utilities will play a pivotal role in building and managing electrical infrastructure and ensuring grid reliability. Drivers will no longer rely exclusively on gas stations, refineries, and oil companies for fuel. They will depend increasingly on electricity supplied by distribution utilities and charging stations maintained by network operators. As the industry undergoes this shift, utilities, network operators, and other stakeholders will need to work together to meet the evolving energy needs of American consumers.
"Louis' addition to the board strengthens the Alliance's perspective and expertise among our diverse members," said Phil Jones, Executive Director of the ATE. "FLO's focus on station uptime and reliability, open standards, and enhancing the necessary utility role in EV adoption and infrastructure investments will significantly add to the ATE's advocacy before State Commissions and Provincial Tribunals where we are active to accelerate this fundamental industrial transformation."
"As a leading EV network operator, FLO brings a wealth of experience to the Alliance and understands the challenges the industry is facing," added Hans Kobler, CEO and Managing Partner of Energy Impact Partners (EIP) as well as a member of FLO's Board of Directors. "With successful expansions in major markets and a strong emphasis on quality and reliability, Mr. Tremblay should continue to play a valuable role in the policy arena in North America and help accelerate the adoption of EVs and building out reliable EV charging infrastructure."
FLO recently announced its first U.S. EV charger assembly facility in Auburn Hills, Michigan. The facility is expected to help FLO achieve its goal of producing 250,000 EV chargers for the U.S. market by 2028. Tremblay's position on the board of directors provides an opportunity for valuable partnerships between FLO and utilities across the United States and will help both the ATE and FLO in their joint mission to accelerate EV adoption.
About FLO
FLO is a leading North American electric vehicle (EV) charging network operator and a smart charging solutions provider. We fight climate change by accelerating EV adoption through a vertically integrated business model and delivering EV drivers the most dependable charging experience from curbside to countryside. Every month, we enable more than 750,000 charging events thanks to over 65,000 fast and level 2 EV charging stations deployed at public, private and residential locations. FLO operates across North America and our high-quality charging stations are assembled with care in Michigan and Quebec. To learn more about what "EV charging done right" means to us, visit flo.com.
About the Alliance for Transportation Electrification
The Alliance for Transportation Electrification (ATE), a 501c.6 non-profit organization, is a broad coalition of organizations that advocates for an acceleration of transportation electrification in all states and provinces. These include utilities, automotive OEMs, electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) companies and affiliated non-profit trade associations and non-profit groups. ATE believes that a broad multi-stakeholder coalition is critical to bring groups together around policy and regulatory issues that will help enable this fundamental restructuring of the transportation, electric utility, and IT/software industries. For more information on ATE, please visit https://evtransportationalliance.org
About Energy Impact Partners
Energy Impact Partners, LP (EIP) is a global venture capital firm leading the transition to a sustainable future. EIP brings together entrepreneurs and the world's most forward looking energy and industrial companies to advance innovation. With over $2.0 billion in assets under management, EIP invests globally across venture, growth, credit, and infrastructure – and has a team of nearly 60 professionals based in its offices in New York, San Francisco, Palm Beach, London, Cologne, and Oslo. For more information on EIP, please visit www.energyimpactpartners.com.
*FLO is a registered trademark of Services FLO Inc.
Contact Information
Maude Blouin
Director, Communications
mblouin@flo.com
(418) 480-5884
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SOURCE FLO | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/07/12/flo-ceo-louis-tremblay-appointed-alliance-transportation-electrification-board-directors/ | 2022-07-12T17:15:15Z |
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