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BOSTON, Sept. 15, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- With the increasing demand on accounting firms to provide high-value services to their clients, Botkeeper is pleased to have Expensify join our marketplace partner system. Expensify offers a streamlined relationship between accounting partners and their clients for monthly receipt management with their ExpensifyApproved! Partner Program.
David Cardoza, Partnerships, Sales and Product at Expensify relayed, "Expensify partnered with Botkeeper to free up the time of accountants and their clients. From the point of purchase to reconciliation, accountants and their clients no longer spend valuable time filing away receipts."
Botkeeper and Expensify see an opportunity to provide automation that enables accounting professionals to easily meet clients' demands for ongoing back office accounting support and increasing demand for advisory, receipt and expense management services, while simultaneously increasing capacity to continue growth.
Deneen Dias, VP of Growth and Strategic Relationships at Botkeeper explained, "The Expensify team are disruptors in pre-accounting automation through expense management. They were first to market in capturing receipts and managing expenses by automatically importing and reconciling credit cards. They continue to be the leader in spend management. Botkeeper is excited to be syncing with like-minded innovators."
Expensify is a payments superapp that helps individuals and businesses around the world simplify the way they manage money. More than 12 million people use Expensify's free features, which include corporate cards, expense tracking, next-day reimbursement, invoicing, bill pay, and travel booking in one app. Whether you own a small business, manage a team, or close the books for your clients, Expensify makes it easy so you have more time to focus on what really matters. Download the app or sign up at Expensify.com today!
Botkeeper is a leading automated bookkeeping solution, providing accounting firms and their clients a powerful combination of skilled accountants, machine learning, and artificial intelligence. The Botkeeper Operating System (BOS) gives your CAS or bookkeeping practice an unparalleled workflow management system that uses best practices we've refined over several years. Accounting firms can grow their book of business, diversify their service offering, increase capacity, and improve overhead costs using the BOS full-suite bookkeeping & pre-accounting solution. With BOS you have the ultimate tool to efficiently manage your bookkeeping client base. Learn more about Botkeeper here!
Contact:
Della Copp
dcopp@botkeeper.com
33 Arch St., 17th Floor
Boston, MA
Ph: 800-388-3323 x7108
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SOURCE Botkeeper | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/09/15/botkeeper-partners-with-expensify-streamline-back-office-accounting/ | 2022-09-15T13:23:05Z |
DALLAS (KDAF) — Theatre Three is a staple of the Dallas Metroplex. It was founded in 1961 by Norma Young, Jac Alder, Esther, Ragland, and Roy Dracup; however, they weren’t operating in the same place they are today.
Before they were performing on Laclede St., the company was performing at the Sheraton Hotel until 1969 when they finally leased their current space. In 1985, they purchased the building themselves.
With such rich history behind the company, Fun on the Run’s Yolonda Williams wanted to dive deeper. Here is her conversation with Theater Three. | https://cw33.com/news/inside-dfw/check-out-this-inside-look-at-theatre-three-in-dallas/ | 2022-07-06T16:57:53Z |
Biden nixes Trump design for Air Force One over cost, delay
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden’s administration has scrapped former President Donald Trump’s red, white and blue design for the new generation of presidential aircraft after an Air Force review suggested it would raise costs and delay the delivery of the new jets.
Boeing is currently modifying two Boeing 747-800 aircraft that will bear the Air Force One callsign when the president is onboard to replace the existing fleet of two aging Boeing 747-200 aircraft. Trump, in 2018, directed that the new jumbo jets shed the iconic Kennedy-era robin’s egg blue and white design for a deeper navy and streak of dark red.
The Trump paint scheme is not being considered because it could drive additional engineering, time and cost, according to an administration official who spoke on the condition of anonymity in order to discuss the program.
Politico first reported that the Air Force study of the new paint job had concluded that the dark shade of blue Trump proposed for the plane’s underbelly and engines would have created heating issues for the aircraft, requiring costly redesigns and additional delays to the already behind-schedule program. The current generation of planes first carried President George H.W. Bush.
When he was in office, Trump kept a mockup of the new presidential plane in the new color scheme on a coffee table in the Oval Office.
“The baby blue doesn’t fit with us,” he told Fox News in 2019 after earlier unveiling sketches of his ideal redesign for the plane’s exterior.
Trump’s design utilized the colors of the American flag. The top half of the plane would be white, while dark blue would cover the bottom half, including the belly. A bold red stripe would streak from cockpit to tail across the midsection — almost identical to the color scheme on Trump’s personal plane, except that the white and blue were reversed.
The administration did not formally unveil a new design for the replacement aircraft, which are currently at a Boeing plant in San Antonio undergoing extensive modifications to prepare them to carry the president. They currently sport a simple white and blue paint job with U.S. Air Force markings as the work proceeds.
Formally known as the VC-25B, the new aircraft are estimated to replace the older VC-25A planes in 2026, years behind schedule.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | https://www.wibw.com/2022/06/10/biden-nixes-trump-design-air-force-one-over-cost-delay/ | 2022-06-10T18:47:47Z |
NEW YORK, Aug. 31, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Neuberger Berman High Yield Strategies Fund Inc. (NYSE American: NHS) (the "Fund") has announced a distribution declaration of $0.0905 per share of common stock. The distribution announced today is payable on September 30, 2022, has a record date of September 15, 2022 and has an ex-date of September 14, 2022.
Under its level distribution policy, the Fund anticipates that it will make regular monthly distributions, subject to market conditions, of $0.0905 per share of common stock, unless further action is taken to determine another amount. The Fund's ability to maintain its current distribution rate will depend on a number of factors, including the amount and stability of income received from its investments, the cost of leverage and the level of other Fund fees and expenses. There is no assurance that the Fund will always be able to pay a distribution of any particular amount or that a distribution will consist only of net investment income.
Due to an effort to maintain a stable distribution amount, the distribution announced today, as well as future distributions, may consist of net investment income, net realized capital gains and return of capital. In compliance with Section 19 of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, a notice would be provided for any distribution that does not consist solely of net investment income. The notice would be for informational purposes and not for tax reporting purposes, and would disclose, among other things, estimated portions of the distribution, if any, consisting of net investment income, capital gains and return of capital. The final determination of the source and tax characteristics of all distributions paid in 2022 will be made after the end of the year.
About Neuberger Berman
Neuberger Berman, founded in 1939, is a private, independent, employee-owned investment manager. The firm manages a range of strategies—including equity, fixed income, quantitative and multi-asset class, private equity, real estate and hedge funds—on behalf of institutions, advisors and individual investors globally. With offices in 25 countries, Neuberger Berman's diverse team has over 2,500 professionals. For eight consecutive years, the company has been named first or second in Pensions & Investments Best Places to Work in Money Management survey (among those with 1,000 employees or more). In 2020, the PRI named Neuberger Berman a Leader, a designation awarded to fewer than 1% of investment firms for excellence in Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) practices. The PRI also awarded Neuberger Berman an A+ in every eligible category for our approach to ESG integration across asset classes. The firm manages $418 billion in client assets as of June 30, 2022. For more information, please visit our website at www.nb.com.
Statements made in this release that look forward in time involve risks and uncertainties. Such risks and uncertainties include, without limitation, the adverse effect from a decline in the securities markets or a decline in the Fund's performance, a general downturn in the economy, competition from other closed end investment companies, changes in government policy or regulation, inability of the Fund's investment adviser to attract or retain key employees, inability of the Fund to implement its investment strategy, inability of the Fund to manage rapid expansion and unforeseen costs and other effects related to legal proceedings or investigations of governmental and self-regulatory organizations.
Contact:
Neuberger Berman Investment Advisers LLC
Investor Information
(877) 461-1899
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SOURCE Neuberger Berman | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/08/31/neuberger-berman-high-yield-strategies-fund-announces-monthly-distribution/ | 2022-09-01T01:28:39Z |
Top-rated private practice expands their offerings for patients experiencing dizziness and balance issues at multiple locations across Louisville, Central Kentucky, and Southern Indiana
LOUISVILLE, Ky., June 15, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Serving Louisville, Central Kentucky and Southern Indiana, private practice group Advanced ENT & Allergy are bringing their patients relief from dizziness and balance issues through premium care and treatment at 8 different locations.
Widely regarded as experts in total upper airway care, Advanced ENT & Allergy's Advanced Dizzy Clinic provides comprehensive in-house testing and treatments for patients experiencing dizziness or problems with balance.
Along with the award-winning group of Ear, Nose, and Throat Physicians as well as Clinical Audiologists, the treatments include dedicated support from a former neurology practitioner, physical therapist, as well as the largest collection of state-of-the-art equipment in the Greater Louisville Area to ensure complete care for their patients at every level.
"We started looking at it differently and decided that we needed a different approach to how we treated dizziness. Our practice made the decision to purchase additional audiology equipment, to start doing more testing, look at other parts of the inner ear, hire different professionals, and then to hire a physical therapist in-house so that we could best get these patients the help they need."- Michelle Byerly, Au.D, CCC-A, Doctor of Audiology. To see an exclusive video and learn more click here.
As with each of their clinics, Advanced ENT & Allergy is committed to superior care that demonstrates professionalism, efficiency, respect — and to exceed all expectations for their patients.
Find your nearest clinic: advancedentandallergy.com/about-us/our-locations/
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SOURCE Advanced ENT and Allergy | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/06/15/advanced-ent-amp-allergy-private-practice-group-opens-balance-center-amp-dizzy-clinic/ | 2022-06-15T13:09:11Z |
NICB President and CEO David Glawe and San Diego District Attorney Summer Stephan Will Discuss Strengthening Prosecution Efforts Against Fraudsters
SAN DIEGO, Sept. 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), the insurance industry's association dedicated to predicting, preventing, and prosecuting insurance crime, is strengthening its longstanding relationship with the San Diego District Attorney's Office. NICB President and CEO David Glawe and San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan will meet on Wednesday, Sept. 14 to discuss their partnership and future collaborations as they work to investigate and prosecute offenders.
During the meeting in San Diego, Glawe, Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Tim Slater, Senior Vice President and General Counsel Pat Martin, and other NICB leadership will meet with Stephan, Insurance Fraud and Workplace Justice Division Chief John Philpott, and Assistant Chief Luis Mendez. As crime around the U.S. continues to increase, including the highest vehicle theft numbers since 2008, staggering catalytic converter thefts, and fraud exceeding $300 billion annually nationwide, California is experiencing some of the highest crime rates. The state currently ranks third in the nation for the highest vehicle theft rates per 100,000 people.
"NICB is grateful for our partnership with the San Diego District Attorney's Office," said NICB President and CEO David Glawe. "After an investigation leaves our hands, we look to the District Attorney to prosecute these criminals in California."
"We are committed to working in collaboration with NICB to prevent and prosecute bad actors who perpetrate insurance fraud which is one of the top fraud schemes in our nation," said San Diego County District Attorney, Summer Stephan. "San Diego County is widely known for obtaining justice through its unique partnership with law enforcement agencies and organizations dedicated to preventing crime." NICB and the San Diego District Attorney are looking forward to continuing their valued partnership as they battle the ever-growing crime trends seen in California. They will continue to work together on crime prevention, find more ways to raise awareness, and prosecuting criminals.
If you believe you have been a victim of fraud, call the NICB at 1-800-TEL-NICB. For additional information, visit NICB's website, WWW.NICB.org.
REPORT FRAUD: Anyone with information concerning insurance fraud or vehicle theft can report it anonymously by calling toll-free 800.TEL.NICB (800.835.6422) or submitting a form on our website.
ABOUT THE NATIONAL INSURANCE CRIME BUREAU: Headquartered in Des Plaines, Ill., the NICB is the nation's leading not-for-profit organization exclusively dedicated to combatting and preventing insurance crime through Intelligence, Analytics, and Operations; Education and Crime Prevention; and Strategy, Policy, and Advocacy. The NICB is supported by more than 1,200 property and casualty insurance companies and self-insured organizations. NICB member companies wrote over $582 billion in insurance premiums in 2021, or more than 82% of the nation's property-casualty insurance. That includes more than 96% of the nation's personal auto insurance. To learn more, visit www.nicb.org.
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SOURCE National Insurance Crime Bureau | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/09/13/nicb-president-ceo-meets-with-san-diego-district-attorney-foster-enhance-investigative-efforts/ | 2022-09-13T13:09:56Z |
ATLANTA (AP) — Sen. Lindsey Graham can’t put off his appearance before a special grand jury investigating whether then-President Donald Trump and others illegally tried to influence the 2020 election in Georgia, a federal judge said Friday.
Earlier this week, U.S. District Judge Leigh Martin May ordered Graham to honor his subpoena for the special grand jury. Graham’s attorneys appealed that order to the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals and asked May to stay her ruling and prohibit the special grand jury from questioning him while that appeal plays out. May declined that request in her order on Friday.
“Under the circumstances, further delay of Senator Graham’s testimony would greatly compound the overall delay in carrying out the grand jury’s investigation,” May wrote. “Further delay thus poses a significant risk of overall hindrance to the grand jury’s investigation, and the Court therefore finds that granting a stay would almost certainly result in material injury to the grand jury and its investigation.”
Graham is currently scheduled to testify on Tuesday. But he still has another motion to stay May’s ruling pending before the 11th Circuit.
Representatives for Graham did not immediately respond to messages on Friday seeking comment.
Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis opened the investigation early last year and in July filed petitions seeking to compel testimony from seven Trump advisers and associates, including Graham.
Former New York mayor and Trump attorney Rudy Giuliani, who’s been told he’s a target of the investigation, testified before the special grand jury for nearly six hours on Wednesday. Two other lawyers who advised Trump, John Eastman and Jenna Ellis, were ordered this week to appear before the panel later this month. Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp filed a motion Wednesday seeking to quash a subpoena for his testimony.
The investigation, originally prompted by a Jan. 2, 2021, phone call between Trump and Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger, is one of several pending legal threats Trump faces. Willis has said she’s considering seeking to compel the former president himself to testify before the special grand jury.
Attorneys for Graham, a South Carolina Republican, have argued that a provision of the U.S. Constitution provides absolute protection against a senator being questioned about legislative acts. But the judge found there are “considerable areas of potential grand jury inquiry” that fall outside that provision’s scope. The judge also rejected Graham’s argument that the principle of “sovereign immunity” protects a U.S. senator from being summoned by a state prosecutor.
Graham also argued that Willis, a Democrat, had not demonstrated extraordinary circumstances necessary to compel testimony from a high-ranking official. But the judge disagreed, finding that Willis had shown “extraordinary circumstances and a special need” for Graham’s testimony on issues related to an alleged attempt to influence or disrupt the election in Georgia.
Willis and her team have said they want to ask Graham about two phone calls they say he made to Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger and his staff shortly after the 2020 general election. During those calls, Graham asked about “reexamining certain absentee ballots cast in Georgia in order to explore the possibility of a more favorable outcome for former President Donald Trump,” Willis wrote in a petition.
Graham also “made reference to allegations of widespread voter fraud in the November 2020 election in Georgia, consistent with public statements made by known affiliates of the Trump Campaign,” she wrote.
Republican and Democratic state election officials across the country, courts and even Trump’s attorney general found there was no evidence of voter fraud sufficient to affect the outcome of the election.
In asking May to stay her decision, Graham’s lawyers argued that his rights to immunity would be violated the moment he was questioned.
Willis’ team responded that delaying Graham’s testimony would harms the investigation. In addition to facts he knows, he’s also expected to shed light on other sources of information that the special grand jury may want to pursue, they wrote. So waiting to talk to him “could ultimately delay” the entire investigation.
In the separate motion for a stay filed with the 11th Circuit, Graham’s attorneys argue that on Wednesday Chief Senior Assistant District Attorney Donald Wakeford agreed to postpone the scheduled testimony pending the outcome of the appeal. They included a voicemail Wakeford left for Graham attorney Brian Lea.
Lea says in a declaration filed with the motion that later that same afternoon Wakeford confirmed Graham’s grand jury appearance wouldn’t move forward until the appeal was resolved. But then Wakeford sent an email 20 minutes later “stating that he did not ‘want to characterize the contents of our response before it is written,’” Lea wrote.
Lea said he reached out to Wakeford several more times by phone and email but got no response until Wakeford sent an email at 4:40 a.m. Friday saying the district attorney’s office intended to oppose the stay and would argue that Graham should appear before the special grand jury as planned.
___
Associated Press writer Meg Kinnard in Columbia, South Carolina, contributed reporting.
___
Follow AP’s coverage of the Trump investigations at: https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump | https://cw33.com/news/politics/ap-politics/judge-wont-let-graham-delay-testimony-in-election-probe/ | 2022-08-19T22:25:32Z |
SUNNYVALE, Calif., Sept. 15, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Trimble (NASDAQ: TRMB) announced today that one of the largest forest companies in Sweden, Sydved, has selected Trimble's CFHarvest to manage and increase the productivity, efficiency and sustainability of its forestry harvesting operations. Sydved is the first Swedish forest company to implement CFHarvest.
CFHarvest is a forest harvesting management and tracking system that provides real-time visibility of harvested volumes and location of wood. The system enables forest companies such as Sydved to reduce roadside and terminal inventory levels and improve the productivity of their harvesting operations. By minimizing equipment moves and improving locational awareness between the harvester and forwarder, CFHarvest can support the reduction of emissions from forestry operations. CFHarvest is a web-based Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) solution to also manage silvicultural operations and forestry services. In addition, CFHarvest can be used for mixed fleet operations and provide traceability to the source.
"CFHarvest supports our desired way of working and creates opportunities for major efficiencies in our production process. The system will also serve as a key component in our harvesting operations that can enable us to focus on our quality and sustainability objectives. The service helps to steer resource-efficient use of round wood and minimize emissions of non-productive engine hours as well as protect soil floor and natural habitats," said Örjan Vorrei, IT manager for Sydved.
"Supporting Sydved's efforts to increase efficiency and drive sustainability in its operations is paramount. With CFHarvest, Sydved will have the benefit of seeing operational data in real time. Managers can plan, schedule and execute harvesting decisions based on real-time field data. The solution also optimizes cutting instructions to improve value recovery, whether logs or pulpwood. The real-time visibility of harvest operations improves forest-to-mill logistics, which can result in reducing carbon emissions intensity," said Kevin Toohill, general manager of Trimble Forestry.
Sydved handles approximately 5 million cubic meters of forest annually; of which 3 million cubic meters are harvested by their approximately 200 contractors. Trimble's CFHarvest will also be used by Sydved's contractors to manage their operations.
"With CFHarvest, our contractors will have better opportunities to both plan work execution and share essential information in real time. This creates the conditions for efficient use of machines and personnel while reducing the risk of damage to cultural and natural environments. Overall, CFHarvest enables the combination of sustainable working practices and good profitability. Addressing sustainability challenges was a key factor for us in choosing CFHarvest," said Vorrei.
Sydved handles approximately five billion cubic meters of wood annually and offers consulting advice and full forestry service. Sydved is based in the southern parts of Sweden with its head office in Jönköping. Sydved is owned by Stora Enso and Ahlstrom-Munksjö. For more information, visit: sydved.se.
Trimble's Forestry Division offers SaaS and enterprise software to improve the productivity and sustainability of the world's most recognized integrated forest-related organizations. Trimble's Connected Forest™ solutions manage the full raw material's lifecycle of planning, planting, growing, harvesting, transporting, and processing. For more information, visit: forestry.trimble.com.
Trimble is an industrial technology company transforming the way the world works by delivering solutions that enable our customers to thrive. Core technologies in positioning, modeling, connectivity and data analytics connect the digital and physical worlds to improve productivity, quality, safety, transparency and sustainability. From purpose-built products to enterprise lifecycle solutions, Trimble is transforming industries such as agriculture, construction, geospatial and transportation. For more information about Trimble (NASDAQ: TRMB), visit: www.trimble.com.
GTRMB
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SOURCE Trimble | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/09/15/sydved-selects-trimbles-cfharvest-digitalize-its-forestry-harvesting-operations/ | 2022-09-15T12:16:13Z |
Gov. tours new state-of-the art child care facility in Lindsborg
LINDSBORG, Kan. (WIBW) - Governor Laura Kelly toured the latest and greatest in child care options for Little Sweden as part of her economic prosperity tour.
Kansas Governor Laura Kelly says on Tuesday, Aug. 10, she traveled to the Lindsborg Child Development Center as part of her Prosperity on the Plains economic tour. She said expanded child care is a cornerstone of her workforce and economic development efforts.
“When we invest in child care and early education, the benefits are immediate and long-lasting,” Gov. Kelly said. “Child care helps attract and retain a highly skilled workforce, brings business to the state, and improves the long-term well-being of our children. That’s exactly why Lindsborg has made this investment in their community, and it’s why my administration has supported child care workers and centers across the state.”
Kelly noted that the child care center for Little Sweden is a private-public partnership created by the Strategic Alliance - a group of Lindsborg institutions and employers who work to improve the community.
In 2019, the Governor indicated that the Alliance found a lack of child care as the biggest obstacle to the city’s future development and made plans to build and expand the state-of-the-art child care facility.
Kelly said the Alliance’s mission was supported by her announcement in 2021 that Sprout House Learning Center - which built the Lindsborg Child Development Center - would get Community Service Tax Credits to boost their fundraising efforts.
“Quality Child Care is a critical component in helping our most vulnerable children get a good start in life,” Christy Clarkson, Director of the Lindsborg Child Development Center, said. “In quality child care, children are kept safe and healthy. Families will benefit in staying connected with other families and improving quality of family life.”
In June, the Governor said the newly constructed $3.1 million, 11,000 square-foot facility opened its doors to area children.
“Childcare is the cornerstone of our economic development plan,” Lucas Neece, Lindsborg Assistant City Administrator, said. “People can only do their best work when they know that their children are happy and safe. This investment is part of our invitation to young adults: Come build a prosperous future with us here in Lindsborg!”
Gov. Kelly said she has invested in child care as a crucial part of the workforce and economic development success.
Copyright 2022 WIBW. All rights reserved. | https://www.wibw.com/2022/08/10/gov-tours-new-state-of-the-art-child-care-facility-lindsborg/ | 2022-08-10T20:51:18Z |
Kyle Larson took a swig of the winner’s wine, tilted his head back and spit it in the air. He couldn’t have predicted the wind catching hold of the vino and blowing it all over new track general manager Jill Gregory.
Some homecoming, eh?
Gregory, a Modesto native and graduate of California Polytechnic State, returned home in early 2021 to run Sonoma Raceway as executive vice president and general manager of the picturesque road course in wine country. She’d had a longtime career with NASCAR but couldn’t pass the opportunity to go home and run Sonoma when the job opened.
The track was mostly shuttered in 2020 because of the pandemic and Gregory was tasked with welcoming NASCAR back just four months after she picked up her keys to the track. Ever-changing COVID-19 restrictions in both California and Sonoma County meant Gregory was constantly having to adapt — from crowd restrictions to even holding the race at all — in the lead-up to her first NASCAR weekend.
In the end, the only true hiccup was Larson’s mouthful of wine that landed all over Gregory on the victory podium.
“I think I tried to jump out of the way, but then I was like, ‘Gosh, Kyle, I’m wearing my nice suit, you just got wine all over me!’ ” Gregory said in an interview with The Associated Press. “People asked me if I was offended, and I know Kyle, he was mortified. It was in victory lane, that’s the wrap of the whole weekend, and at that moment, you are basically exhaling and things are over and fans are leaving, and the spray was quite impressive. But what actually landed on me was quite limited, so I just went about my day.”
Gregory never got the red pantsuit cleaned — she joked she hopes it someday lands in the West Coast Stock Car Hall of Fame — and Larson sent her a bottle of wine from Abreu Vineyards as an apology. She’s saving it for a special occasion.
That occasion could come Sunday night after Gregory concludes her second NASCAR race weekend as head of Sonoma. Unlike last year, the track is wide open to spectators and Gregory has a full slate of action: NASCAR’s truck series will race Saturday afternoon, giving Sonoma added on-track activity to what has typically been a standalone weekend for the premiere Cup Series.
The preparation hit a speedbump last week when a grass fire burned over 15 acres on Sonoma’s rolling property.
“In the whole scheme of things, it was not a large fire, and it was contained within an hour of the 911 call,” Gregory said. “My thought was ‘I’d rather it happen a week before the race than the week of the race.’”
Gregory still has challenges ahead. Sonoma was once the destination race on the NASCAR schedule because of its location, casual schedule and its hold as one of only two road courses in a series packed with ovals.
But since the pandemic, when Sonoma went a year without a race, NASCAR has made major changes to its schedule and this year has six road courses on the calendar. Fans now have multiple choices where to go to see right and left turns.
And, there’s competition for the local audience: The Golden State Warriors don’t return home for the NBA Finals until Monday, but the San Francisco Giants are on a nine-day homestand that conflicts all weekend with the NASCAR race.
Gregory still thinks Sonoma offers the best bang for the buck, between on-site amenities, intense racing and all that Napa Valley has to offer its visitors.
“I’m of course biased, but I think we’ve got the best road course, location-wise and terrain-wise,” she said. “We have some unique turns, some unique elevation, it will be interesting to see how the new Next Gen car performs on this track. I think fans are thrilled about that, but there’s all been a pent-up demand for NASCAR to come back.
“Even during the pandemic, we saw a lot of interest in the San Francisco market, a little south of San Francisco, and a lot has changed in NASCAR since we last raced at Sonoma. We’ve got an influx of new fans and we think we’ve got something unique to show them.”
___
More AP auto racing: https://apnews.com/hub/auto-racing and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports | https://cw33.com/sports/ap-sports/california-native-gregory-ready-to-host-full-show-at-sonoma/ | 2022-06-08T23:45:28Z |
Global leader in payments technology, Opus is helping clients embed end-to-end real-time payments into their customer journeys via a digital-first strategy.
ALPHARETTA, Ga., Sept. 12, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- In recent times, the payments landscape has witnessed tremendous transformation as economies are now looking to capitalize on the power of the digital ecosystem.
With the payments industry entering a new phase, businesses need to adopt a holistic digital approach to stay ahead of the curve and enjoy the first-mover advantage.
The rise of real-time payments, Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL), blockchain, and the shift toward open banking and embedded finance are all key drivers in delivering fully integrated, innovative, and frictionless payment experiences.
Talking about these payment trends, TM Praveen, CEO of Opus said, "There has never been a more promising time than now to be in the payments space. For businesses today, innovative payment solutions are not only a key differentiator, but they are also a revenue driver, contributing directly to top-line growth."
As digital transformation is powering the payments world, modernizing payment platforms has become the number one priority for organizations. Praveen stated, "You can't have digital transformation without payment modernization. The need of the hour is for organizations to have a digital-first payment strategy." The benefits of adopting an API-backed strategy, DevOps, data analytics, and cloud technologies are undeniable as they enable businesses to meet digital transformation objectives such as increased revenues and cost-efficiency.
"Opus is well-positioned to help organizations accelerate digital transformation and maintain their competitive advantage. This year, we celebrated our 25th anniversary. Backed by a legacy of 25 years in payments, we are ready to take on the growth path. With new clients on board, an increase in the headcount, and a 75% projected rise in revenue—we expect to finish 2022 stronger. We are gearing up for the next wave of transformation in 2023 by helping organizations embrace digital as a culture," added TM Praveen.
Opus Consulting Solutions is a global provider of outcome-driven payment strategies. Opus combines its deep technology proficiency with unmatched domain expertise in payments and FinTech to deliver unparalleled quality and value in their work.
Visit https://opusconsulting.com to learn more. Follow Opus on LinkedIn.
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SOURCE Opus Consulting Solutions, Inc. | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/09/12/opus-digital-first-payment-capabilities-empower-clients-deliver-differentiated-user-experience/ | 2022-09-12T14:17:45Z |
WASHINGTON (AP) — The Biden administration praised Saudi Arabia Thursday for its roles securing an OPEC+ pledge to pump more oil and a cease-fire extension in Yemen — warm words that appeared to boost the prospect of President Joe Biden traveling to Saudi Arabia and meeting with the kingdom’s once-shunned crown prince.
Biden intends to make his first trip as president to the Saudi kingdom later this month, though details have not been finalized, a person familiar with the planning told The Associated Press.
Such a visit would be politically fraught because it would likely bring the U.S. leader together with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Biden as a presidential candidate in 2019 pledged to make the crown prince “pay the price” for the killing of a U.S.-based journalist.
In a statement Thursday, Biden took a far different tone toward Saudi leaders, praising the kingdom’s “courageous leadership” for its role in extending a United Nations cease-fire in a Saudi-led war in Yemen.
Biden administration officials have been working behind the scenes to repair relations, discussing shared strategic interests in security and oil with their Saudi counterparts. The effort has played out as the fallout of the invasion of Ukraine by Russia, the world’s No. 2 crude exporter after Saudi Arabia, and a Saudi-Russian brokered cap on oil production have raised crude prices, and sent prices Americans pay at the pumps to record highs.
Biden and Democrats face rising voter anger over the high prices, making the tight oil supply a top political liability.
Appeals from the U.S. and its allies for the OPEC+ group — OPEC nations plus Russia — to boost production more appeared to bear results Thursday. OPEC nations announced they would raise production by 648,000 barrels per day in July and August, offering modest relief for a struggling global economy.
The increase did not appear to ease concerns about tight supply and oil prices actually rose after OPEC+ announced the increase.
In a statement, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre acknowledged what she said was Saudi Arabia’s role “in achieving consensus” among the oil producers’ bloc. She thanked the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait and Iraq as well.
“The United States will continue to use all tools at our disposal to address energy price pressures,” Jean-Pierre added.
Jean-Pierre also directly cited “the leadership of King Salman and the Crown Prince” in Thursday’s announcement of an extended U.N. cease-fire in Yemen, where Saudi-led forces have led an unsuccessful war to rout that country’s Houthi rebels.
The White House is weighing a Biden visit that would also include a meeting of the leaders of the Gulf Cooperation Council countries — Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates — as well as Egypt, Iraq and Jordan, according to a person familiar with White House planning, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss the yet-to-be finalized plans.
Biden would be expected to meet with Prince Mohammed if the Saudi visit happens, according to the person.
Such a meeting could ease a tense and uncertain period in the partnership between Saudi Arabia, the world’s top oil exporter, and the United States, the world’s top economic and military power, that has stood for more than three-quarters of a century.
But it also risks a public humbling for the U.S. leader, who in 2019 pledged to make a “pariah” of the Saudi royal family over the 2018 killing and dismemberment of U.S.-based journalist Jamal Khashoggi, a critic of Prince Mohammed’s brutal ways.
Jean-Pierre has declined to comment on whether Biden will travel to Saudi Arabia. He is expected to travel to Europe at the end of June and could tack on a stop in Saudi Arabia to meet with Prince Mohammed, Saudi King Salman and other leaders. If he does, Biden would also likely visit Israel.
Israeli officials in their engagement with the Biden administration have pressed their point of view that U.S. relations with Arab capitals, including Riyadh, are critical to Israel’s security and overall stability in the region. The visit could also provide an opportunity to kick off talks for what the administration sees as a longer-term project of normalizing Israel-Saudi relations.
And while the Biden administration continues to be concerned about Saudi Arabia’s human rights record, the president’s advisers credit Saudis for showing greater restraint in its conflict with Yemen since Biden took office.
White House officials expect criticism from Democratic allies and human rights advocates charging Biden is backtracking on human rights, but suggest that in the long term a credible Middle East strategy without key leaders in the kingdom is not tenable.
Biden, through the early going of his presidency, has repeatedly said the world is at a key moment in history where democracies must demonstrate they can out-deliver autocracies. The administration doesn’t want to see countries such as Egypt and Saudi Arabia with troubling human rights records fall into the camp of Moscow and Beijing.
Any Biden climbdown from his passionate human-rights pledge during his campaign — that Saudi rulers would “pay the price” for Khashoggi’s killing — risks more disillusionment for Democratic voters. They have watched Biden struggle to accomplish his domestic agenda in the face of a strong GOP minority in the Senate.
U.S. officials were recently in the region for talks with Saudi officials about energy supplies, Biden administration efforts to revive the Iran nuclear deal, and the war in Yemen.
Frequent, warm visits among Saudi, Russian and Chinese officials during the freeze between Biden and the Saudi crown prince have heightened Western concern that Saudi Arabia is breaking from Western strategic interests.
Besides helping to keep gas prices high for consumers globally, the tight oil supply helps Russia fund its invasion of Ukraine. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov visited the Saudi kingdom Tuesday.
Officials in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, for their part, see Biden as the latest of several U.S. presidents to neglect the U.S. military’s longstanding protector role in the Gulf, as the United States tries to focus on China.
Those Gulf security worries may be eased by the U.S. move last year bringing control of its forces in Israel under U.S. Central Command. That effectively increases interaction between Israel’s U.S.-equipped military and Arab forces under the U.S. military umbrella, said Dan Shapiro, a former U.S. ambassador to Israel, now a distinguished fellow with the Atlantic Council. | https://cw33.com/news/politics/ap-politics/pledge-of-more-oil-heightens-odds-of-saudi-trip-for-biden/ | 2022-06-02T22:48:17Z |
The first-of-its-kind, Montessori-inspired cooking academy is poised to change lives from scratch, bringing 75 locations to the Lone Star State
VANCOUVER, BC, June 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ - With the increasing demand for a safe, inspiring, and empowering space for children to identify, develop, and refine their senses – Little Kitchen Academy, the first-of-its-kind, Montessori-inspired cooking academy – has announced its Texas development deal. The brand's first entry in the Lone Star state, Little Kitchen Academy is set to develop 75 locations across Texas, focusing on key markets including Austin, Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston, and San Antonio, with the flagship location planned for Austin later this year. Partnering with the all-star team at Wonderful Chaos Kitchen, LLC, Little Kitchen Academy's expansion will be led by Bill Duffy, boasting over a decade of franchise experience, alongside Josh Cole, Justin Stone, Raymond Yee, Yehuda Haziza, Tim Kurtz, and Matt Powell.
"I first heard about Little Kitchen Academy through Caroline Irving, LKA Ontario Development Partner, after she announced that she was developing the concept in Toronto and throughout Ontario. I decided to inquire more, ultimately flying out to Vancouver to meet with Little Kitchen Academy team and see first hand how the brand was changing lives," said Duffy. "The environment was like nothing I had ever seen before, allowing children to experiment and learn in their own way, not by the standardized measures we so often see. At one point, students put bowls on top of their heads because they simply wanted to see what they could do with it. In that moment, I knew I was sold."
The team behind Wonderful Chaos Kitchen, LLC is excited to draw on their roots in Texas to help their franchise partners succeed. Together, their team offers over 50 years of experience in franchising, both as franchisees and franchisors, specializing in restaurant, retail, and multi-unit development across the Lone Star state. They are eager to bring a concept that will improve the wellbeing of the communities it serves, as their team is deeply fond of Texas and wants to provide this exceptional opportunity to children throughout the state.
"We are thrilled to join the Little Kitchen Academy team as it serves those on 'both sides of the counter,' meaning staff and students alike are excited to be a part of this experience. It was important to us to partner with a concept that's not only successful but would resonate with our values," said Duffy. "Little Kitchen Academy is so much more than just a cooking school, it's an opportunity to give the next generation the tools they need to succeed. A big factor that attracted us to this concept was their charitable work and social impact, which is something that we're thrilled to bring to communities across Texas."
True to its mission, Little Kitchen Academy lives to create a more educated, able, and healthy society through mindful, healthy eating choices, and is committed to changing lives, from scratch to consumption. Part of that mission includes empowering students to learn how they can make the world a better place through How Can I Help by Little Kitchen Academy, LKA's signature philanthropic program, and by supporting Crisis Text Line, The Global FoodBanking Network, Kids Help Phone, and One Tree Planted. Wonderful Chaos Kitchen, LLC is eager to partake in the concept's efforts charitable work, looking to work with underserved communities utilizing this first-of-its-kind approach to child development.
"Sharing the gift of LKA with Bill and his team to lead the development throughout the great state of Texas will give more children the environment they need to gain independence and valuable life skills," said Brian Curin, co-founder, co-CEO, and president of Little Kitchen Academy. "The caliber of this group is not only measured by the successes of their business endeavors, but their commitment to the communities they serve. We are honored to be changing lives from scratch with them throughout Texas."
Little Kitchen Academy offers its franchise partners the opportunity to truly make an impact, blending an innovative, purpose-driven concept that transcends cultures, languages and geography. The brand is currently seeking like-minded multi-unit franchise and development partners based exclusively in Arizona, California, Illinois, North Carolina, Oregon, South Carolina, Texas, Washington, and Wisconsin. In Canada, there are limited opportunities in Alberta, British Columbia, and Ontario. Globally, Australia, Brazil, China, Columbia, Ethiopia, France, Italy, Japan, MENA Region, Mexico, Nigeria, Singapore, Spain, and the U.K. are markets available for development.
For more information about Little Kitchen Academy's franchise opportunity, visit littlekitchenacademy.com/about/franchise/.
Little Kitchen Academy is the key ingredient for an independent child. The first-of-its-kind, Montessori-inspired cooking academy for kids ages three through teen is focused on providing a safe, inspiring, and empowering space for children to identify, develop, and refine their senses. Based in Vancouver, Canada, the concept was co-founded by proven global brand and franchise expert and serial entrepreneur Brian Curin, his wife, Montessori-trained, culinary expert, and visionary Felicity Curin, and social impact investor and entrepreneur Praveen Varshney, on the belief that by empowering children with practical life skills and knowledge in a positive and joyful environment, they and their company will effect positive lifestyle changes that result in a healthier world. True to its mission, LKA lives to create a more educated, able, and healthy society through mindful, healthy eating choices, and is committed to changing lives, from scratch to consumption. Part of that mission includes empowering students to learn how they can make the world a better place through How Can I Help by Little Kitchen Academy, LKA's signature philanthropic program, supporting Crisis Text Line, The Global FoodBanking Network, Kids Help Phone, and One Tree Planted. In addition to charitable partnerships, LKA has forged strategic global brand partnerships with Iron Chef Cat Cora, AeroGarden, BIRKENSTOCK, ChefWorks, Emeco, ChopValue, Welcome Industries, and PRISE Inc. Little Kitchen Academy's flagship venues are located in Vancouver, B.C., and Los Angeles, California.
For a taste of Little Kitchen Academy, visit littlekitchenacademy.com or join its communities on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, and YouTube.
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SOURCE Little Kitchen Academy Ltd. | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/06/09/little-kitchen-academy-announces-texas-sized-expansion/ | 2022-06-09T15:43:29Z |
ORLANDO, Fla. , June 14, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Lug, the popular lifestyle brand of travel bags, handbags, and accessories is pleased to announce its feature on Fresh Money, an online CNN series that tells stories of innovators who are reinventing how we live. "The Lug company has created such a devoted online community around their accessories that women snap up new products as soon as they appear on the company's live app or QVC," said a blurb on CNN.com.
The piece interviews Jason and Ami Richter, founders of Lug. On a car drive from Dallas, Texas, to Toronto, Canada, Jason and Ami came up with the idea, name, and concept for Lug, which launched in August 2005. In addition to their origin story, the couple also talks about getting a call from Oprah's people for her famous "O List" and venturing into the world of QVC. "Our very first airing with QVC was on July 24, 2015," said Ami in the CNN interview. "When we went on air, the product sold out in two minutes," added Jason.
Today, Lug has 50+ employees spread across the U.S. and Canada and millions of products sold. "Now that we're a 15-year-old company, we've grown this to a size we probably didn't think was possible in the beginning," said Jason Richter. Despite the company's exponential growth, Lug has a very intentional people-driven culture that feels like family, which is depicted well in the Fresh Money piece.
Since the start, Lug has always pushed the envelope to get to the next level. "You don't just wait for things to come to you. You seek them," said Ami Richter. "So, we thought, what better way than to build our own social selling channel?" For Jason and Ami, launching LugLive has felt like going "back to startup mode" as they step into new territory and help define the future of retail. "Customers appreciate being able to be heard, and in this community, they have a say," said Jason. "I definitely think the future of retail is going to lead itself into more live commerce. The reactions that we get from our customers, the personalities they get to interact with, it all creates the opportunity where everyone can thrive together."
Watch the full video at cnn.com/freshmoney.
About Lug
Founded in 2005 by Ami and Jason Richter, Lug's unique silhouettes and thoughtful designs keep you organized throughout your day. Featuring fashionable bags and accessories in brilliant colors and novelty patterns, Lug provides solutions to everyday life with both function and fashion in mind.
The following year, Lug's Puddle Jumper bag caught Oprah's attention, and it was featured on the "O List" in O Magazine, popularizing the brand among female travelers.
In 2015, Lug launched on QVC to great success, where its products are featured in broadcasts that reach over 100 million American households. Lug received the QVC Star Award for Customer Experience in 2016 and the QVC Star Award for Customer Experience in 2017.
Lug was chosen as the official bag of the 2022 MTV Movie & TV Awards and the 2018, 2019, and 2020 SAG Awards Gala Gift Bags.
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SOURCE The Lug Companies | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/06/14/lug-talks-growth-brand-community-future-retail-cnns-fresh-money-series/ | 2022-06-14T20:55:03Z |
Global Enterprise Retailers and Brands Turn to Flexe to Navigate Challenges, Add Resilience and Reduce Risk in Their Logistics Operations
SEATTLE, July 6, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Today Flexe, the programmatic logistics leader, announced its $119 million Series D funding round at a $1b+ post-money valuation. The round includes new investments from funds and accounts managed by BlackRock and follow-on investment from Activate Capital, Madrona Ventures, Prologis Ventures, Redpoint Ventures, funds and accounts advised by T. Rowe Price Associates, Inc. and T. Rowe Price Investment Management, Inc. and Tiger Global.
Flexe continues to see accelerated demand for its logistics programs. An uncertain macroeconomic environment, rapidly shifting consumer behaviors, forecast variability and supply chain gridlocks have led retailers and brands to strategically embrace logistics flexibility.
"Flexe uniquely helps enterprise retailers and brands solve big supply chain challenges and excel in uncertain environments," said Samir Menon, BlackRock Private Equity Partners. "Flexe has demonstrated that programmatic logistics deliver value for the world's most demanding companies. We're pleased to partner with a category creator that is transforming a massive industry."
Flexe Logistics Programs are an increasingly critical aspect of its customers' operations. Six of the ten largest retailers and four of the five largest consumer packaged goods companies work with Flexe to run programmatic logistics as part of their supply chain strategies.
"Despite changing economic conditions, Flexe added nearly as many enterprise customers in the first six months of 2022 as it did all of last year and continues to see strong demand," said Karl Siebrecht, Co-Founder and CEO at Flexe. "Our model allows organizations to scale fast in strong economic environments and reduce risk, capital investment and long-term commitments when they face uncertainty."
For more information about Flexe, please visit Flexe.com.
Flexe solves the hardest omnichannel logistics problems for the world's largest retailers and brands. Integrating technology, open logistics networks, and elastic economic models allows Flexe customers to move fast, at scale, and with precision. Founded in 2013 and headquartered in Seattle, Flexe brings deep logistics expertise and enterprise-grade technology to deliver innovative eCommerce fulfillment, retail distribution, and network capacity programs to the Fortune 500. For more information, please visit http://www.flexe.com/ and connect with us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, and Medium.
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SOURCE FLEXE | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/07/06/flexe-raises-119m-enterprises-accelerate-flexe-logistics-program-adoption/ | 2022-07-06T13:31:49Z |
Leaf set to host weekly college football and NFL show, The Straight Line with Ryan Leaf, beginning September 8th
Denver, Sept. 7, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- PointsBet, the leader in live betting, today announced it has named former quarterback and football analyst Ryan Leaf as the newest addition to its talent roster.
Leaf, who joined ESPN in 2019 as a college football analyst and is a regular contributor on SportsCenter and College Football Live, will be hosting The Straight Line with Ryan Leaf, which will be broadcasted four times a week with NFL editions on Monday, Thursday, and Friday and a College Football edition on Wednesday. The Straight Line with Ryan Leaf will premiere on Thursday, September 8 and feature the biggest NFL and College Football storylines with wagering analysis targeting spreads, totals, player props, futures, and more.
"I'm thrilled to join the PointsBet team as we work together to produce premium football content during this upcoming football season," Ryan Leaf said. "With PointsBet's market-leading emphasis on live betting options and their best-in-class user experience, it was an easy decision. I'm eager to use my knowledge of the game in a new and exciting way that connects me to sports fans and bettors on a regular basis."
Leaf was selected No. 2 overall in the 1998 NFL Draft by the San Diego Chargers and spent four years in the league. The former quarterback's accolades while playing at Washington State included Pac-12 Offensive Player of the Year (1997), First Team All-American, Sammy Baugh Quarterback of the Year, and Heisman Trophy finalist.
In addition to naming Leaf as its latest brand ambassador, in early October, the sportsbook is set to launch a state-of-the-art multimedia studio, PointsBet Studio, serving as the central hub for premium content production.
"PointsBet views content as an essential component of the overall sports betting experience," said PointsBet USA CEO Johnny Aitken. "Bettors are increasingly looking to sportsbooks to provide them with high-quality entertaining and informative content, and with the unveiling of the PointsBet Studio, we're able to produce and curate content in house that is tailored to the PointsBet user. And we couldn't be more excited to be kicking off the NFL season with content produced alongside our newest brand ambassador, Ryan Leaf."
The new digital studio will be located in the heart of downtown Manhattan and will be equipped with the latest innovative technology. The PointsBet Studio will be the home to multiple shows per week with the capabilities to live-stream, record video podcasts, create social-first content, and much more.
"We're excited to partner with former NFL quarterback and Heisman Trophy finalist Ryan Leaf for a slate of weekly original shows," said Liam Roecklein, PointsBet Senior Vice President of Content. "We're focusing on delivering content to bettors that highlight the biggest NFL and College Football storylines while also delivering the most in-depth betting analysis."
The Straight Line with Ryan Leaf is the first of a slate of shows set to launch in conjunction with the upcoming opening of the PointsBet Studio. Sports fans can access The Straight Line on all podcast platforms and PointsBet's social channels, including Twitter, YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok, as well as on the PointsBet app.
PointsBet is a corporate bookmaker listed on the Australian Stock Exchange with operations in Australia, the United States, Canada and Ireland. PointsBet has developed a scalable cloud-based wagering platform through which it offers its clients innovative sports and racing wagering products, advance deposit wagering on racing (ADW) and iGaming.
Media Contact
Janelle Laignelet
Communications Manager
janelle.laignelet@pointsbet.com
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SOURCE PointsBet | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/09/07/pointsbet-gears-up-football-season-with-ryan-leaf-new-brand-talent-upcoming-debut-pointsbet-studio/ | 2022-09-07T13:45:18Z |
PSIL-001 and PSIL-002 show promising antidepressant effects without hallucinations while having improved learning and memory tendencies over a psilocybin mimic
TAMPA, Fla., Aug. 10, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Psilera Inc. ("Psilera"), a biopharmaceutical company optimizing next-generation mental health treatments with a technology-enabled platform, announces promising results on two patent-pending N,N-dimethyltryptamine ("DMT") analogues, PSIL-001 and PSIL-002. Psilera's new chemical entity ("NCE") library contains promising compounds with non-hallucinogenic effects when administered at therapeutic dosages in various preclinical models.
PSIL-001 and PSIL-002 showed similar preclinical efficacy to psilacetin, a positive control, in the forced swim test depression model without hallucinations via the head twitch response. Psilacetin produces psilocin, the psychedelic active ingredient with FDA breakthrough therapy designation for treatment-resistant depression. Single doses of PSIL-001 and PSIL-002 produced rapid antidepressant effects, while most current FDA-approved antidepressants take multiple doses to show efficacy.
Repeat doses of PSIL-001 and PSIL-002 also showed improvement in learning and memory tasks statistically superior to psilacetin. These important characteristics could translate to neurodegenerative disorders like dementia and Alzheimer's disease which inspired a grant application by Psilera to study their NCEs in Alzheimer's disease.
"We are excited to see the unique results exhibited by PSIL-001 and PSIL-002," said Dr. Jackie von Salm, Co-Founder and CSO of Psilera. "We are finally documenting much needed evidence for our hypothesis that small, strategic chemical changes to existing psychedelic compounds can greatly reduce hallucinations while maintaining efficacy. These are just two of many NCEs in our library which could greatly impact patients suffering from neurological disorders."
Psilera leverages a world-class scientific and pharmaceutical team to reexamine and repurpose psychotropic natural products into effective and accessible patient-centric treatments. Their drug discovery core combines novel syntheses with a technology-enabled data platform to optimize next-generation neurological drugs at the atomic level. Psilera's proprietary computational platform harnesses leading machine learning methods to map complex datasets and identify lead compounds with modified psychotropic and therapeutic effects. Psilera's mission is to enhance the lives of patients by delivering new treatments with fewer side effects in mental health and neurodegenerative disorders.
Investor Contact:
Collin Gage
CGage@psilera.com
Media Contact:
Katie DeMarsh
Katie@psilera.com
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SOURCE Psilera, Inc. | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/08/10/psileras-new-compounds-show-potential-significant-treatment-improvement-depression-neurodegenerative-disorders/ | 2022-08-10T13:22:02Z |
SAN MATEO, Calif., May 27, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Allschool is proud to announce that the Company has made to the winner list of the National Business Award for Education 2022 for its outstanding educational resources and state-of-the-art digital tools designed to facilitate and empower the teachers to develop innovative and engaging e-learning content for students worldwide. The Award, launched by Singapore Business Review (SBR), a top business publication in the country, recognizes and honors exceptional companies across multiple sectors whose trailblazing initiatives and pioneering solutions have further refreshed the dynamic business landscape internationally.
"It is an honor to be chosen as a winner for this special award which recognizes Allschool's effort and commitment to revolutionizing online education. I also want to extend my gratitude to Allschool's staff whose phenomenal job across the board has transformed this platform into a thriving and vibrant learning community. This new milestone is a reminder for us to continue introducing more interactive courses and making online education accessible to students across the globe," XiaoNan Wang, CEO of Allschool Southeast Asia Region.
Allschool's Key Milestones:
- 7000+ Accredited Registered Teachers
- 11,000+ Enrolled Students
- 120+ Covered Countries
- 2 Innovative Learning Platforms: Classpod and Powercourse
Driven by its vision to reshape the e-learning experience and unlock the potential that the online education can achieve to help learners elevate their academic performance, Allschool has developed a host of innovative and powerful tools – including Classpod and Powercourse – that allow educators to materialize their ideas to create a fun, interactive and inspiring virtual learning space for students of all ages.
Building upon these achievements, Allschool's unrelenting efforts to improve its courses have enabled the platform to grow by leap and bound, emerging from the highly competitive sector to secure its position as one of the leaders in the Edtech and online education sector. Over the past six months alone, Allschool saw its user base from over 120 countries increasing by nearly 11,000 at the rate of 26% per month.
Allschool's robust educational resources also owe to its endeavor to establish a welcoming community that is open to high-achieving teachers from all backgrounds, allowing them to pool their rich and diverse professional and life experiences to create a cache of premium course options covering language, STEM subjects, coding, writing, painting and so much more. From a humble start, Allschool now has over 7,000 registered licensed and accredited teachers from all over the world, with the majority based in the US, the UK, and Canada.
The quantity doesn't come at the sacrifice of quality. Allschool has implemented a thorough vetting process for the teacher candidates that ensure their credentials and relevant experiences meet its high standards. The result is that 100% of Allschool's teachers have passed National Criminal and Background check. Over 90% of Allschool's teachers have acquired bachelor's degrees or above, with 7 plus years of teaching experience on average, with those who have 'student-centered' teaching philosophy and sincerely care about children and their development being given preference.
Looking ahead, Allschool will engage more students by allowing them to pursue their passions and pushing the envelope of what virtual learning platforms can achieve.
About Allschool
Allschool is an innovative online platform that delivers highly interactive small-group live classes to children worldwide. Through Allschool, learners can enjoy a variety of premium live classes – including mathematics, languages, visual arts, game design, and more – delivered by thousands of devoted and talented teachers from all around the world.
An expert in online education, Allschool has developed a set of innovative purpose-built teaching and learning tools that bring meaningful changes to learning outcomes, allowing students to immerse themselves in a rewarding, gamified, and interactive environment that empowers them to explore and pursue their interests while making schooling fun and enjoyable.
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SOURCE ALLSCHOOLS PTE.LTD | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/05/27/allschool-wins-sbr-national-business-award-education-2022/ | 2022-05-27T20:00:23Z |
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Where to find the best savings this Labor Day
The end of summer is always a bit of a disappointment, but it’s also the perfect time to do a little shopping for the fall. Many retailers offer excellent discounts for Labor Day. Whether you’re getting ready to head back to school, need to spruce up your wardrobe or need to replace an appliance, you can score serious savings.
This year, we’ve seen impressive sales on a Samsung tablet, a top-of-the-line Casper mattress and fall clothing essentials like this comfy UGG sweater. From back-to-school supplies to end-of-summer must-haves, check out the best Labor Day deals we’ve found, all organized by category to help you shop smarter.
Back-to-school
Under Armour Adult Hustle 5.0 Backpack
Grab this durable, water-resistant backpack for 25% off right now. It has adjustable shoulder straps for a comfortable fit and a lined laptop sleeve that can hold a 15-inch computer. It has a laundry and shoe pocket for gym clothes, too.
Sold by Amazon
With a compact design, this super-fast, multitasking laptop is ideal for students who need to bring their computer back and forth to school. It has an 11th Gen Intel processor and a long-lasting battery. Best of all, it’s on sale for $400 off.
Sold by HP
This lunch bag is made of premium materials and features high-quality insulation to protect your child’s lunch. It comes in 16 kid-approved patterns and offers multiple carrying options. Grab it for $15 off this Labor Day.
Sold by Amazon
Brita Plastic Water Filter Bottle
Stay hydrated during the school day with this plastic water bottle with a built-in filter. It holds 26 ounces and has a leakproof lid. You can wash it on the top rack of the dishwasher, too. Right now, you can get it for 20% off.
Sold by Amazon
Other top back-to-school deals
- This Canon wireless all-in-one printer is on sale for 38% off and is perfect for all the printing, scanning and copying needed for school projects.
- You can score this set of wide-ruled notebooks with durable plastic covers for just $10.80.
- This detailed planner makes it easy to keep track of all your school assignments and is on sale for 15% off.
- These Sharpie gel pens in assorted colors are on sale for 57% off.
Clothing
This cozy knit sweater is the perfect addition to your fall wardrobe. It has a ribbed neckline, cuffs and hemline and striking balloon sleeves to make a bold statement. You can get it on sale now for 67% off.
Sold by Amazon
Patagonia Snap Front Retro-X Jacket
This button-up jacket earns plenty of style points while still warding off the fall chill. It’s made of warm, moisture-wicking sherpa fleece. The dual hand pockets can keep your hands warm, too. Get it on sale this Labor Day for 20% off.
Sold by Backcountry
Nine West Flutter Sleeve Wrap Dress
This flattering dress offers a wrap design that highlights the waist with a tie belt. The short flutter sleeves are perfect for warmer weather or layering with a sweater in cooler months. It’s available in eight color and pattern options and is discounted 30% for Labor Day.
Sold by Kohl’s
The Children’s Place Baby and Toddler Girls Short Sleeve Graphic T-shirt
Send your kids back to school in style with this 100% cotton jersey T-shirt. It has a rib-knit crew neck, short sleeves and a cute school supplies graphic. Right now, you can get it on sale for just $2.99.
Sold by Amazon
Other top clothing deals
- This Vince Camuto tulip-sleeve top can add a fun pop of color to your wardrobe and is on sale for 40% off.
- Grab this comfy, lightweight hoodie with built-in UPF protection for 50% off.
- This fun floral Stormtrooper kids’ graphic tee is perfect for Star Wars fans and is on sale for up to 74% this Labor Day.
- These versatile Levi’s straight-leg cropped jeans are a steal for 59% off.
Electronics
TP-Link Deco Mesh Wi-Fi System
Upgrade your traditional router with this mesh Wi-Fi system that can cover up to 5500 square feet. It’s easy to set up, so you can have your new network up and running in minutes. It also comes with antivirus protection and is currently on sale for 21% off
Sold by Amazon
Roku Streambar 4K Streaming Media Player
Upgrade your streaming experience with this media player that offers 4K HDR picture quality and top-notch sound. It’s easy to set up and includes a voice remote for user-friendly operation. It’s on sale for 23% off this Labor Day.
Sold by Dell
This smart display makes it easy to take video calls, watch your favorite movies, control your smart home devices and more. It has a 10.1 HD screen for clear images and a 13-megapixel camera with auto-framing. It’s on sale for 20% off.
Sold by Amazon
This tablet offers a crystal-clear 10.5-inch LCD and plenty of storage for all your files. It also boasts an extra-long battery life and makes it easy to transfer your data between devices. It’s on sale this Labor Day for 26% off.
Sold by Amazon
Other top electronics deals
- Get 20% off a Blink Video Doorbell, which allows you to see who’s at your door without opening it.
- This Bose portable Bluetooth speaker is on sale for $50 off and offers up to eight hours of play time.
- This 65-inch Sony OLED Smart TV lets you stream directly from your favorite streaming services and is available for more than $500 off this Labor Day.
- Score 25% off this Panasonic digital camera, which has a live viewfinder and a tilting display.
Mattresses
Casper Wave Hybrid Snow Mattress
Casper’s Wave Hybrid mattress features HeatDelete Bands and AirScape 3 to help disperse body temperature to keep you cool all night long. It’s available this Labor Day for up to $600 off, depending on the size.
Sold by Casper
Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Essential Plus Ease Power Base
Tempur-Pedic is a name synonymous with sleeping comfort. This mattress and power base bundle delivers a custom sleeping experience for 40% off.
Sold by Tempur-Pedic
You can save $225 when you purchase Saatva’s Classic mattress this Labor Day. This highly desirable option is supportive, breathable and durable. Plus, it comes with a 365-night home trial.
Sold by Saatva
GhostBed brands itself as “the coolest bed in the world.” You can see if the feels “like you’re sleeping on a cloud” reviews are true, and save 50% on the Luxe queen this Labor Day.
Sold by GhostBed
Other top mattress deals
- This Queen Nectar Memory Foam Mattress has five layers of comfort and is on sale for $799 (regularly $1,498).
- You can save $225 this Labor Day when you purchase Saatva’s popular Loom and Leaf Mattress in the Queen size.
- Serta’s 7-inch Cooling Gel Memory Foam Mattress offers luxurious body-cradling comfort for just $269.10 (regularly $299).
- At just $146.72 (regularly $209.99) the full-size PrimaSleep’s Memory Foam Mattress is a great value that is even better this Labor Day.
Lawn and garden
This gas-powered pressure washer comes with everything you need to get the job done: a five-in-one quick-change nozzle, a 15-inch surface cleaner, a high-pressure hose and an onboard detergent tank. This Labor Day it is on sale for $319 (regularly $379).
Sold by Home Depot
Black and Decker 20-volt Max String Trimmer
Want to get some last-minute yard work done before fall? This two-in-one cordless model functions as an edger and a trimmer. It’s currently on sale for 14% off.
Sold by Amazon
Gorilla Carts Steel Multiuse Dump Cart
This heavy-duty steel dump cart has an impressive 1,200-pound load capacity. You can tow it by hand or attach it to a tractor for convenience. If you buy it this week, you can save $30.
Sold by Home Depot
Sun Joe Electric Convertible Pole Chain Saw
There’s a lot of deadwood cutting that needs to be done in the fall. This versatile chain saw can help you clear your yard for winter. The best part is it’s currently available for 40% off.
Sold by Amazon
Other top lawn and garden deals
- This rugged steel tub wheelbarrow has a 20-gallon capacity and is on sale for $79 (regularly $89).
- This Labor Day you can save 29% on a Ryobi Walk-Behind Lawn Mower.
- Worx versatile Cordless String Trimmer is currently on sale for $107.99 (Regularly $199.99). The battery and charger are included in the purchase price.
- If you need a shovel this weekend, you can save 13% on the Anvil Steel Digging Shovel.
Kitchen appliances
Samsung Over-the-Range Microwave
Samsung’s 30-inch over-the-range microwave has 1000 watts of power, 10 power levels and offers two-stage programmable cooking. If you buy it now, you can save $101.
Sold by Home Depot
Edendirect Indoor Electric Grill Air Fryer
This one appliance can grill, air crisp, bake, roast, broil, make pizza and dehydrate with just a tap on the display. The extra-large capacity can accommodate up to 24 hot dogs or an 8-inch pizza. Normally, it is $292.50, but on Labor Day, you can get it for $260.33.
Sold by Home Depot
Keurig’s K-Classic Coffee Maker has a large 48-ounce reservoir that lets you brew six cups of coffee before refilling. You can make 6-, 8- or 10-ounce cups. It is on sale for 33% off.
Sold by Amazon
Other top kitchen appliance deals
- This versatile Spiralizer 7-Blade Vegetable Slicer is a great addition to your essential countertop appliances. It is currently on sale for 45% off.
- With the 33-pound countertop ice maker, you can have ice on demand. Buying it this Labor day will get you 33% off.
- This six-speed handheld mixer comes with two stainless steel dough hooks and egg beaters. It is on sale for $17.99 (regularly $24.99).
End-of-summer
Jackery Push-Button Start Battery Generator
With no noise or fumes, this 1000-watt continuous/2000-watt peak output power station is perfect for fall camping trips. You can save $104.00 when you buy this eco-friendly model over Labor Day.
Sold by Home Depot
Traeger Pro Series 22 Pellet Grill
Pellet grills offer the best of both worlds: precision temperature control with cooked-on-a-grill flavor. This model has 572 square inches of grilling space and an 18-pound hopper. It is currently on sale for 23% off.
Sold by Home Depot
Solo Stove is one of the best, most efficient fire pits on the market. The Bonfire is a 22-inch, low-smoke, stainless steel, wood-burning stove that is on sale for $309.99 (regularly $469.99).
Sold by Amazon
Other top end-of-summer deals
- This beautiful Round Concrete Propane Gas Fire Pit from Hampton Bay can be used throughout the fall. Even better, it’s on sale for 49% off.
- You can save $50 when you buy this Char-Griller Three-Burner Propane Grill this week.
- A Propane Patio Heater is another way to extend your outdoor season deep into the cooler nights of fall. This model is currently on sale for 40% off.
Contributing author: Allen Foster
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Jennifer Blair writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money. | https://cw33.com/news/the-50-plus-best-labor-day-sales-and-deals-you-dont-want-to-miss/ | 2022-08-31T18:48:07Z |
SaveTaBSoda Committee works to grab Coca-Cola's attention with billboards within view of company headquarters in Atlanta
ATLANTA, July 6, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Despite removal of their beloved soda from store shelves more than two years ago, dedicated TaB drinkers refuse to give up their efforts to get the iconic diet cola back in the hands of its legion of fans.
In its latest initiative, the SaveTaBSoda Committee placed eye-catching billboards blocks away from company headquarters.
"We placed our two billboards in the middle of Atlanta—near World of Coca-Cola and Coca-Cola's World Headquarters -- to send a message to Coke executives," said Jenny Boyter, committee member. "Let's meet and discuss creative solutions for making TaB available for consumers, because we're not giving up."
In addition to the billboards, the committee runs email and phone campaigns while urging fans to sign its petition to help keep pressure on the company.
Committee member Adam Burbach sees hope in Coca-Cola's recent product releases. "I recently saw advertisements for space-flavored and pixel-flavored Coke, close on the heels of recent launches of other new products which quickly disappeared from shelves," said Burbach. "Instead of throwing random ideas against the wall to see what sticks, wouldn't it be cool to bring back one of its most iconic brands with nearly 60 years of success? Taco Bell listened to its customers and brought back the Mexican Pizza, why couldn't Coke bring back TaB?"
TaB was Coca-Cola's first zero sugar cola, created in 1963. It was discontinued in 2020, with consumers soon turning to platforms like Amazon as supplies dwindled.
"TaB became one of Amazon's best-selling soft drinks, and there was a 50/50 chance it'd sell out before I could check out," said Trish Priest, committee member. "We're confident with the right approach - maybe pre-ordered online or working through an exclusive distribution partner - Coke can both make TaB available to its devoted fans and turn a profit."
Those who wish to help, visit savetabsoda.com to sign the petition and please contact Coca-Cola.
An organization of TaB drinkers, the SaveTabSoda Committee focuses on activities and events to convince Coca-Cola to once again make TaB soda available to consumers. The committee works on behalf of and with the help of TaB fans everywhere! In August 2021, the committee formally organized as a nonprofit corporation.
Contact: Jenny Boyter | 206.552.8218 | committee@savetabsoda.com
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SOURCE SaveTabSoda | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/07/06/tab-drinkers-unite-bring-back-favorite-soda/ | 2022-07-06T15:14:27Z |
The all-oral, once-daily combination regimen also demonstrates the potential of immune restoration in this patient population
VIENNA, June 10, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson today announced new and updated results from the Phase 2 CAPTIVATE study evaluating IMBRUVICA® (ibrutinib) in combination with venetoclax (I+V) as a potential fixed-duration (FD) treatment in adult patients with previously untreated chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL). Updated data from the FD cohort with three years of follow-up shows that I+V continues to demonstrate deep and durable responses and clinically meaningful progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) in the first-line treatment setting. New data will be presented from the minimal residual disease (MRD) cohort, which suggests immune restoration with this combination. These data will be presented during the 2022 European Hematology Association (EHA) Annual Congress taking place in Vienna, Austria June 9-12 (Abstracts #S144 and #P669).
"These promising data highlight the complementary mechanism of action between ibrutinib and venetoclax in a fixed-duration combination regimen," said Carol Moreno, M.D., Ph.D., Consultant Hematologist, Hospital de la Santa Creu Sant Pau, Autonomous University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain, and study investigator.† "The CAPTIVATE study suggests that this combination may have the potential to provide treatment-free remissions for patients and effectively eradicate CLL cells and help to restore normal B cells to healthy donor levels in patients with previously untreated CLL/SLL."
The Phase 2 CAPTIVATE (PCYC-1142) study (NCT02910583) – sponsored by Pharmacyclics LLC, an AbbVie Company, and Janssen Biotech, Inc. – enrolled 323 patients with previously untreated CLL/SLL who were younger than 70 years, including patients with high-risk disease, in two cohorts: an FD cohort where all patients stopped therapy after 12 cycles of the combination, regardless of MRD status; and an MRD-guided cohort where treatment duration was guided by the patients' MRD status after 12 cycles of I+V combination (patients who met criteria for confirmed undetectable minimal residual disease [uMRD] were randomized 1:1 to placebo or IMBRUVICA®; patients who did not meet uMRD criteria were randomized to IMBRUVICA® or I+V).1,2
Three-Year Follow-Up Data from the FD Cohort of the Phase 2 CAPTIVATE (PCYC-1142) Study of IMBRUVICA®-Based Combination Regimen in Previously Untreated Patients with CLL/SLL (Abstract #P669)1
After an additional year of follow-up data from the FD cohort of CAPTIVATE, I+V continues to demonstrate deep, durable responses and clinically meaningful PFS, including in patients with del(17p)/TP53 mutated or unmutated immunoglobulin heavy chain gene (IGHV).1 The clinical data underscore the distinct and complementary modes of action of IMBRUVICA® and venetoclax (a BCL-2 inhibitor).1 IMBRUVICA® has been shown to mobilize CLL cells out of lymph nodes and other lymphoid niches and into peripheral blood where they are more susceptible to venetoclax-induced apoptosis, eliminating dividing and resting CLL cells.1
Key findings from the Phase 2 CAPTIVATE FD cohort study include:
- At a median follow-up of 38.7 months, the 36-month PFS rate was 88 percent for all treated patients, 80 percent for patients with del(17p)/TP53 mutated and 86 percent for unmutated IGHV patients (95 percent Confidence Interval [CI]).1
- With an additional year of follow-up, no additional OS events occurred. The 36-month OS rate was 98 percent, overall (95 percent CI).1
- The complete response (CR) rate was 57 percent (n=159; 95 percent CI, 50-65) and consistent across high-risk subgroups.1
- Median duration of CR was not reached (n=91); the 24-month landmark estimate for duration of CR was 94 percent. Median duration of response was not reached for responding patients (n=153).1
- Seventy-nine percent of patients (n=125) achieved undetectable uMRD at any time in the peripheral blood (PB) and/or bone marrow.1
- Of patients with uMRD in PB at three months posttreatment, 78 percent (66/85) of evaluable patients maintained uMRD through 12 months posttreatment.1
- All patients are currently off treatment.1 Frequently occurring treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) (period from first dose until 30 days after the last dose of study treatment) were primarily Grade 1/2 in severity with the exception of neutropenia.1 Median time to onset of frequently occurring TEAEs generally occurred within four months (87-100 percent).1 The median time to resolution or improvement ranged from 16.5 days (diarrhea) to 42.5 days (arthralgia).1 No new serious adverse events or secondary malignancies have been reported since the primary analysis.1
- Twelve patients who progressed after FD treatment with I+V have been retreated with single-agent IMBRUVICA®; 11 of the 12 patients were evaluable for response, with 10 responding.1
New Data from the MRD-Guided Cohort of the Phase 2 CAPTIVATE (PCYC-1142) Study of IMBRUVICA®-Based Combination Regimen Evaluating Immune Restoration in Previously Untreated Patients with CLL/SLL (Abstract #S144)2
Data on the changes over time in the cellular immune profile in patients with CLL/SLL treated with the I+V combination and age-matched healthy donors were featured in an oral presentation at EHA. The FD regimen of I+V in the confirmed uMRD placebo arm effectively eradicated CLL cells to healthy donor levels and enabled sustained regeneration of normal B cell counts.2
Immune restoration was evaluated in 79 previously untreated patients with CLL/SLL enrolled in the MRD cohort by monitoring changes over time in the cellular immune profile of patients treated with I+V combination regimen and compared to 20 age-matched healthy donors.2
Key findings from this analysis include:
- Patients with confirmed uMRD (n=40) had a significantly more pronounced decrease in circulating CLL cell count than patients with uMRD not confirmed (n=39).2
- From Cycle 16 – 29, patients with Confirmed uMRD (n=40) had cell counts similar to those of healthy donors (≤0.8 cell/μL).2
- Normalization of critical immune cells, including T-cell subsets, classical monocytes, and dendritic cell counts was observed in this population.2
"These new clinical and immune results from the CAPTIVATE study add further evidence of the promise of IMBRUVICA in a fixed-duration regimen for previously untreated CLL patients," said Craig Tendler, M.D., Vice President, Late Development and Global Medical Affairs, Janssen Research & Development, LLC. "IMBRUVICA has become a standard of care in CLL treatment, and we continue to explore novel combinations such as I+V which may offer the option of off-treatment, disease-free intervals for patients with B-cell malignancies."
The CAPTIVATE study is part of a comprehensive development program exploring the potential of IMBRUVICA®-based FD therapy. Janssen continues to evaluate the I+V combination regimen and its potential to provide a FD treatment option for patients living with CLL/SLL. Recently, The New England Journal of Medicine Evidence published the primary analysis from the Phase 3 GLOW study, which evaluated the safety and efficacy of the I+V combination in older or unfit patients with CLL/SLL, and showed that the combination demonstrated superior PFS and deeper sustained responses compared to chemoimmunotherapy in first-line CLL.3
About IMBRUVICA®
IMBRUVICA® (ibrutinib) is a once-daily oral medication that is jointly developed and commercialized by Janssen Biotech, Inc. and Pharmacyclics LLC, an AbbVie company. IMBRUVICA® blocks the Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK) protein, which is needed by normal and abnormal B cells, including specific cancer cells, to multiply and spread. By blocking BTK, IMBRUVICA® may help move abnormal B cells out of their nourishing environments and inhibits their proliferation.4,5,6
IMBRUVICA® is approved in more than 100 countries and has been used to treat more than 250,000 patients worldwide. There are more than 50 company-sponsored clinical trials, including 18 Phase 3 studies, over 11 years evaluating the efficacy and safety of IMBRUVICA®.
IMBRUVICA® was first approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in November 2013, and today is indicated for adult patients in six disease areas, including five hematologic cancers. These include indications to treat adults with CLL/SLL with or without 17p deletion (del17p), and adults with Waldenström's macroglobulinemia (WM), and adult patients with previously treated mantle cell lymphoma (MCL)*, as well as to treat adult patients with previously treated marginal zone lymphoma (MZL) who require systemic therapy and have received at least one prior anti-CD20-based therapy*, and adult patients with previously treated chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD) after failure of one or more lines of systemic therapy.7
*Accelerated approval was granted for MCL and MZL based on overall response rate. Continued approval for MCL and MZL may be contingent upon verification and description of clinical benefit in confirmatory trials.
Since 2019, the National Comprehensive Cancer Network® (NCCN®), recommends ibrutinib (IMBRUVICA®) as a preferred regimen for the initial treatment of CLL/SLL and has Category 1 treatment status for treatment-naïve patients without deletion 17p/TP53 mutation and as a preferred treatment for treatment-naïve patients with deletion 17p/TP53 mutation. The NCCN Guidelines® also recommend IMBRUVICA®, with or without rituximab, as a preferred regimen for the treatment of relapsed/refractory MCL, as a Category 1 preferred regimen for both untreated and previously treated WM patients, and as a preferred regimen for relapsed/refractory MZL.8
For more information, visit www.IMBRUVICA.com.
IMBRUVICA® IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS
Hemorrhage: Fatal bleeding events have occurred in patients who received IMBRUVICA®. Major hemorrhage (≥ Grade 3, serious, or any central nervous system events; e.g., intracranial hemorrhage [including subdural hematoma], gastrointestinal bleeding, hematuria, and post procedural hemorrhage) occurred in 4.2% of patients, with fatalities occurring in 0.4% of 2,838 patients who received IMBRUVICA® in 27 clinical trials. Bleeding events of any grade including bruising and petechiae occurred in 39%, and excluding bruising and petechiae occurred in 23% of patients who received IMBRUVICA®, respectively.
The mechanism for the bleeding events is not well understood.
Use of either anticoagulant or antiplatelet agents concomitantly with IMBRUVICA® increases the risk of major hemorrhage. Across clinical trials, 3.1% of 2,838 patients who received IMBRUVICA® without antiplatelet or anticoagulant therapy experienced major hemorrhage. The addition of antiplatelet therapy with or without anticoagulant therapy increased this percentage to 4.4%, and the addition of anticoagulant therapy with or without antiplatelet therapy increased this percentage to 6.1%. Consider the risks and benefits of anticoagulant or antiplatelet therapy when co-administered with IMBRUVICA®. Monitor for signs and symptoms of bleeding.
Consider the benefit-risk of withholding IMBRUVICA® for at least 3 to 7 days pre- and post-surgery depending upon the type of surgery and the risk of bleeding.
Infections: Fatal and non-fatal infections (including bacterial, viral, or fungal) have occurred with IMBRUVICA® therapy. Grade 3 or greater infections occurred in 21% of 1,476 patients who received IMBRUVICA® in clinical trials. Cases of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) and Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PJP) have occurred in patients treated with IMBRUVICA®. Consider prophylaxis according to standard of care in patients who are at increased risk for opportunistic infections. Monitor and evaluate patients for fever and infections and treat appropriately.
Cardiac Arrhythmias, Cardiac Failure and Sudden Death: Fatal and serious cardiac arrhythmias and cardiac failure have occurred with IMBRUVICA®. Deaths due to cardiac causes or sudden deaths occurred in 1% of 4,896 patients who received IMBRUVICA® in clinical trials, including in patients who received IMBRUVICA® in unapproved monotherapy or combination regimens. These adverse reactions occurred in patients with and without preexisting hypertension or cardiac comorbidities. Patients with cardiac comorbidities may be at greater risk of these events.
Grade 3 or greater ventricular tachyarrhythmias were reported in 0.2%, Grade 3 or greater atrial fibrillation and atrial flutter were reported in 3.7%, and Grade 3 or greater cardiac failure was reported in 1.3% of 4,896 patients who received IMBRUVICA® in clinical trials, including in patients who received IMBRUVICA® in unapproved monotherapy or combination regimens. These events have occurred particularly in patients with cardiac risk factors including hypertension and diabetes mellitus, a previous history of cardiac arrhythmias, and in patients with acute infections.
Evaluate cardiac history and function at baseline, and monitor patients for cardiac arrhythmias and cardiac function. Obtain further evaluation (e.g., ECG, echocardiogram) as indicated for patients who develop symptoms of arrhythmia (e.g., palpitations, lightheadedness, syncope, chest pain), new onset dyspnea, or other cardiovascular concerns. Manage cardiac arrhythmias and cardiac failure appropriately, follow dose modification guidelines, and consider the risks and benefits of continued IMBRUVICA® treatment.
Hypertension: Hypertension occurred in 19% of 1,476 patients who received IMBRUVICA® in clinical trials. Grade 3 or greater hypertension occurred in 8% of patients. Based on data from 1,124 of these patients, the median time to onset was 5.9 months (range, 0.03 to 24 months). Monitor blood pressure in patients treated with IMBRUVICA®, initiate or adjust anti-hypertensive medication throughout treatment with IMBRUVICA® as appropriate, and follow dosage modification guidelines for Grade 3 or higher hypertension.
Cytopenias: In 645 patients with B-cell malignancies who received IMBRUVICA® as a single agent, grade 3 or 4 neutropenia occurred in 23% of patients, grade 3 or 4 thrombocytopenia in 8% and grade 3 or 4 anemia in 2.8%, based on laboratory measurements. Monitor complete blood counts monthly.
Second Primary Malignancies: Other malignancies (10%), including non-skin carcinomas (3.9%), occurred among the 1,476 patients who received IMBRUVICA® in clinical trials. The most frequent second primary malignancy was non-melanoma skin cancer (6%).
Tumor Lysis Syndrome: Tumor lysis syndrome has been infrequently reported with IMBRUVICA®. Assess the baseline risk (e.g., high tumor burden) and take appropriate precautions. Monitor patients closely and treat as appropriate.
Embryo-Fetal Toxicity: Based on findings in animals, IMBRUVICA® can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. Advise pregnant women of the potential risk to a fetus. Advise females of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with IMBRUVICA® and for 1 month after the last dose. Advise males with female partners of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during the same time period.
ADVERSE REACTIONS
B-cell malignancies: The most common adverse reactions (≥30%) in patients with B-cell malignancies (MCL, CLL/SLL, WM and MZL) were thrombocytopenia (54.5%)*, diarrhea (43.8%), fatigue (39.1%), musculoskeletal pain (38.8%), neutropenia (38.6%)*, rash (35.8%), anemia (35.0%)*, and bruising (32.0%).
The most common Grade ≥ 3 adverse reactions (≥5%) in patients with B-cell malignancies (MCL, CLL/SLL, WM and MZL) were neutropenia (20.7%)*, thrombocytopenia (13.6%)*, pneumonia (8.2%), and hypertension (8.0%).
Approximately 9% (CLL/SLL), 14% (MCL), 14% (WM) and 10% (MZL) of patients had a dose reduction due to adverse reactions. Approximately 4-10% (CLL/SLL), 9% (MCL), and 7% (WM [5%] and MZL [13%]) of patients discontinued due to adverse reactions.
cGVHD: The most common adverse reactions (≥20%) in patients with cGVHD were fatigue (57%), bruising (40%), diarrhea (36%), thrombocytopenia (33%)*, muscle spasms (29%), stomatitis (29%), nausea (26%), hemorrhage (26%), anemia (24%)*, and pneumonia (21%).
The most common Grade 3 or higher adverse reactions (≥5%) reported in patients with cGVHD were pneumonia (14%), fatigue (12%), diarrhea (10%), neutropenia (10%)*, sepsis (10%), hypokalemia (7%), headache (5%), musculoskeletal pain (5%), and pyrexia (5%).
Twenty-four percent of patients receiving IMBRUVICA® in the cGVHD trial discontinued treatment due to adverse reactions. Adverse reactions leading to dose reduction occurred in 26% of patients.
*Treatment-emergent decreases (all grades) were based on laboratory measurements.
DRUG INTERACTIONS
CYP3A Inhibitors: Co-administration of IMBRUVICA® with strong or moderate CYP3A inhibitors may increase ibrutinib plasma concentrations. Increased ibrutinib concentrations may increase the risk of drug-related toxicity. Dose modifications of IMBRUVICA® are recommended when used concomitantly with posaconazole, voriconazole, and moderate CYP3A inhibitors. Avoid concomitant use of other strong CYP3A inhibitors. Interrupt IMBRUVICA® if strong inhibitors are used short-term (e.g., for ≤ 7 days). Avoid grapefruit and Seville oranges during IMBRUVICA® treatment, as these contain strong or moderate inhibitors of CYP3A. See dose modification guidelines in USPI sections 2.3 and 7.1.
CYP3A Inducers: Avoid coadministration with strong CYP3A inducers.
SPECIFIC POPULATIONS
Hepatic Impairment (based on Child-Pugh criteria): Avoid use of IMBRUVICA® in patients with severe hepatic impairment. In patients with mild or moderate impairment, reduce recommended IMBRUVICA® dose and monitor more frequently for adverse reactions of IMBRUVICA®.
Please click here to see the full Prescribing Information.
About the Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson
At Janssen, we're creating a future where disease is a thing of the past. We're the Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson, working tirelessly to make that future a reality for patients everywhere by fighting sickness with science, improving access with ingenuity, and healing hopelessness with heart. We focus on areas of medicine where we can make the biggest difference: Cardiovascular, Metabolism, & Retina; Immunology; Infectious Diseases & Vaccines; Neuroscience; Oncology; and Pulmonary Hypertension.
Learn more at www.janssen.com. Follow us at @JanssenGlobal and @JanssenUS. Janssen Research & Development, LLC and Janssen Biotech, Inc. are part of the Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson.
†Dr. Moreno has served as a paid consultant to Janssen; she has not been paid for any media work.
Cautions Concerning Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains "forward-looking statements" as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 regarding product development and the potential benefits and treatment impact of IMBRUVICA® (ibrutinib). The reader is cautioned not to rely on these forward-looking statements. These statements are based on current expectations of future events. If underlying assumptions prove inaccurate or known or unknown risks or uncertainties materialize, actual results could vary materially from the expectations and projections of Janssen Research & Development, LLC or any of the other Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies and/or Johnson & Johnson. Risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: challenges and uncertainties inherent in product research and development, including the uncertainty of clinical success and of obtaining regulatory approvals; uncertainty of commercial success; manufacturing difficulties and delays; competition, including technological advances, new products and patents attained by competitors; challenges to patents; product efficacy or safety concerns resulting in product recalls or regulatory action; changes in behavior and spending patterns of purchasers of health care products and services; changes to applicable laws and regulations, including global health care reforms; and trends toward health care cost containment. A further list and descriptions of these risks, uncertainties and other factors can be found in Johnson & Johnson's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 2, 2022, including in the sections captioned "Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements" and "Item 1A. Risk Factors," and in Johnson & Johnson's subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Copies of these filings are available online at www.sec.gov, www.jnj.com or on request from Johnson & Johnson. None of the Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies nor Johnson & Johnson undertakes to update any forward-looking statement as a result of new information or future events or developments.
1 Moreno C., et al. Fixed-Duration Ibrutinib + Venetoclax for First-Line Treatment of Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia/Small Lymphocytic Lymphoma: 3-Year Follow-Up From the FD Cohort of the Phase 2 CAPTIVATE Study. 2022 European Hematology Association Annual Congress. June 9-12, 2022.
2 Soloman I., et al. Immune Restoration and Synergistic Activity With First-Line Ibrutinib Plus Venetoclax: Translational Analyses of CAPTIVATE Patients with CLL. 2022 European Hematology Association Annual Congress. June 9-12, 2022.
3 Kater, A., et al. Fixed-Duration Ibrutinib-Venetoclax in Patients with Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia and Comorbidities. NEJM Evidence. 2022. Accessed June 2022 https://doi.org/10.1056/evidoa2200006
4 Genetics Home Reference. Isolated growth hormone deficiency. http://ghr.nlm.nih.gov/condition/isolated-growth-hormone-deficiency. Accessed June 2022.
5 Turetsky A, et al. Single cell imaging of Bruton's tyrosine kinase using an irreversible inhibitor. Scientific Reports. 2014;6:4782.
6 de Rooij MF, Kuil A, Geest CR, et al. The clinically active BTK inhibitor PCI-32765 targets B-cell receptor- and chemokine-controlled adhesion and migration in chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Blood. 2012;119(11):2590-2594.
7 IMBRUVICA® U.S. Prescribing Information, May 2022.
8 NCCN® Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology (NCCN Guidelines®) for Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia/Small Lymphocytic Lymphoma V2.2022. National Comprehensive Cancer Network. Accessed June 2022.
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SOURCE Janssen Oncology | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/06/10/new-imbruvica-ibrutinib-data-fixed-duration-combination-regimen-presented-eha-2022-shows-deep-durable-response-three-years-untreated-chronic-lymphocytic-leukemia/ | 2022-06-10T13:05:41Z |
NEW YORK, July 18, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Halper Sadeh LLP, an investor rights law firm, is investigating the following companies for potential violations of the federal securities laws and/or breaches of fiduciary duties to shareholders relating to:
Hemisphere Media Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: HMTV)'s sale to a subsidiary of Gato Investments LP for $7.00 per share in cash. If you are a Hemisphere Media shareholder, click here to learn more about your rights and options.
ManTech International Corporation (NASDAQ: MANT)'s sale to Carlyle Group Inc. for $96.00 per share in cash. If you are a ManTech shareholder, click here to learn more about your rights and options.
CynergisTek, Inc. (NYSE: CTEK)'s sale to Clearwater Compliance LLC for $1.25 per share in cash. If you are a CynergisTek shareholder, click here to learn more about your rights and options.
Silicon Motion Technology Corporation (NASDAQ: SIMO)'s sale to MaxLinear, Inc. Per the agreement, each American Depositary Share of Silicon Motion will receive $93.54 in cash and 0.388 shares of MaxLinear common stock. If you are a Silicon Motion shareholder, click here to learn more about your rights and options.
Halper Sadeh LLP may seek increased consideration for shareholders, additional disclosures and information concerning the proposed transaction, or other relief and benefits on behalf of shareholders.
Shareholders are encouraged to contact the firm free of charge to discuss their legal rights and options. Please call Daniel Sadeh or Zachary Halper at (212) 763-0060 or email sadeh@halpersadeh.com or zhalper@halpersadeh.com.
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SOURCE Halper Sadeh LLP | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/07/18/investigation-alert-halper-sadeh-llp-investigates-hmtv-mant-ctek-simo/ | 2022-07-18T13:20:56Z |
NEW YORK, Aug. 29, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- This press release provides shareholders of Cohen & Steers Closed-End Opportunity Fund, Inc. (NYSE: FOF) (the "Fund") with information regarding the sources of the distribution to be paid on August 31, 2022 and cumulative distributions paid fiscal year-to-date.
In December 2021, 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. 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 Fund estimates that it has distributed more than its income and capital gains; therefore, a portion of your distribution may be a return of capital. A return of capital may occur, for example, when some or all of the money that you invested in the Fund is paid back to you. A return of capital distribution does not necessarily reflect the Fund's investment performance and should not be confused with 'yield' or 'income'. The amounts and sources of distributions reported in this Notice are only estimates, 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 July 31, 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 July 31, 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.
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 | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/08/29/cohen-amp-steers-closed-end-opportunity-fund-inc-fof-notification-sources-distribution-under-section-19a/ | 2022-08-29T22:04:37Z |
RCPD searches for woman with warrant for possession of controlled substance
Published: Apr. 27, 2022 at 12:26 PM CDT|Updated: 19 minutes ago
MANHATTAN, Kan. (WIBW) - RCPD officers are searching for a woman with a warrant for her arrest for possession of a controlled substance.
The Riley County Police Department says officers are looking for Destiny Melton, who has an active warrant for a probation violation.
Officers said Melton is wanted for unlawful possession of a controlled substance that holds a bond of $50,000.
If anyone has information about Melton’s whereabouts, they should call RCPD at 785-537-2112 or the Manhattan Riley County Crime Stoppers at 785-539-7777.
Copyright 2022 WIBW. All rights reserved. | https://www.wibw.com/2022/04/27/rcpd-searches-woman-with-warrant-possession-controlled-substance/ | 2022-04-27T17:47:05Z |
A-Rod’s nephew Dunand HR in debut; Marlins end skid, top SD
By BERNIE WILSON
AP Sports Writer
SAN DIEGO (AP) — Joe Dunand, the nephew of Alex Rodriguez, homered on the third pitch he saw as a big leaguer and then doubled as the Miami Marlins beat the San Diego Padres 8-0 to end a six-game losing streak. Jorge Soler hit his first career grand slam and Pablo López pitched eight strong innings. Dunand hit a 1-1 pitch from left-hander Sean Manaea into the first row in left-center with one out in the third just hours after his contract was selected from Triple-A Jacksonville. A-Rod tweeted, “WOW! First MLB at-bat HOME RUN. Lets go Joe!!!” Dunand is 695 home runs behind his uncle, who is fourth on the all-time list. | https://localnews8.com/sports/ap-national-sports/2022/05/07/a-rods-nephew-dunand-hr-in-debut-marlins-end-skid-top-sd/ | 2022-05-08T05:07:31Z |
The Newest Owned Brand Collection Available in Stores, on the App and at bedbathandbeyond.com Features Casually Coastal Home Decor for Everyday Living
UNION, N.J. , May 31, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Bed Bath & Beyond® (Nasdaq: BBBY) introduces Everhome™, a casually sophisticated collection of bedding, bath linens and accessories, decor, and outdoor furnishings now available in-stores, on the app and online, only at Bed Bath & Beyond. Everhome offers a fresh approach to traditional design, with a coastal-inspired aesthetic that is easy and elegant. The Everhome assortment features warm and welcoming styles for everyday living, delivering lasting quality at accessible prices.
"We're thrilled to launch our ninth Owned Brand, Everhome, as home design enthusiasts continue to refine their indoor and outdoor spaces with the changing of the seasons and in time for the start of summer," said Joe Hartsig, Executive Vice President and Chief Merchandising Officer at Bed Bath & Beyond. "Everhome features the perfect mix of contemporary classics in a curated collection we know consumers will love to showcase throughout their home."
Everhome Products
The Everhome collection offers versatility through its clean aesthetic, refreshing color palette, and airy designs, many of which are inspired by America's coastal regions–from California cool to Charleston charm to New England classics. The collection fits into everyday living while also elevating essentials to create beautiful roomscapes that make everyone feel comfortable. From bedding and bath to outdoor dining, shoppers can find the following products in each category:
- Bedding: Sheets & pillowcases; duvet/comforter & sham sets; quilts; throws; throw/decorative pillows
- Bath: Bath furniture; towels; bath rugs; shower curtains; soap dishes/dispensers; bath accessories
- Outdoor: Outdoor furniture and garden collections (dining, lounge, bistro & bar); umbrellas; lanterns; planters; dinnerware; serveware; table textiles; décor
- Indoor Decor: Decorative mirrors; frames; shelves; decorative storage baskets; lighting; decorative objects; wall décor & art; window treatments
"Everhome is purposeful and versatile, fulfilling our continued aspiration to create easy and flexible living spaces," said Neil Lick, SVP of Owned Brands at Bed Bath & Beyond. "The collection provides a home that works for all our needs and communicates a welcoming airy style appreciated across generations."
Everhome products are available only at Bed Bath & Beyond—at stores nationwide, through in-store or curbside pickup, the five-star app or bedbathandbeyond.com, and via same-day delivery in some locations. For more information, check out bedbathandbeyond.com/everhome.
About the Company
Bed Bath & Beyond Inc. and subsidiaries (the "Company") is an omnichannel retailer that makes it easy for our customers to feel at home. The Company sells a wide assortment of merchandise in the Home, Baby, Beauty and Wellness markets. Additionally, the Company is a partner in a joint venture which operates retail stores in Mexico under the name Bed Bath & Beyond.
Bed Bath & Beyond operates websites at bedbathandbeyond.com, bedbathandbeyond.ca, buybuybaby.com, buybuybaby.ca, facevalues.com and decorist.com.
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SOURCE Bed Bath & Beyond | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/05/31/bed-bath-amp-beyond-launches-everhome-every-home/ | 2022-05-31T12:20:32Z |
Former Wamego Police Chief’s termination upheld
WAMEGO, Kan. (WIBW) - Former Wamego Police Chief Michael Baker has lost an appeal to get his job back.
Baker was notified of the decision in a letter dated July 1, 2022. In it, Wamego City Clerk Shanda Jahnke writes “After the appeal hearing regarding your employment with the City of Wamego, it is the appeal board’s unanimous recommendation to uphold the termination of employment issued June 22, 2022.”
The letter was dated the same day as Baker’s appeal hearing. However, at the time, Baker told 13 NEWS that the committee would release their decision in three days.
Baker was fired by Wamego City Manager Stacie Eichem June 22, 2022. He was placed on administrative leave the week before.
Baker was a member of the Wamego Police Dept. for 35 years, starting as a reserve officer. He was appointed Chief of Police in 2002, where he served for more than 19 years.
13 NEWS has reached out to the City of Wamego for comment and are awaiting their response.
Copyright 2022 WIBW. All rights reserved. | https://www.wibw.com/2022/07/07/former-wamego-police-chiefs-termination-upheld/ | 2022-07-07T23:17:07Z |
Next generation LinuxONE servers extend IBM's capabilities to help clients across industries, including Citibank, reach sustainability targets
ARMONK, N.Y., Sept. 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- IBM (NYSE: IBM) today unveiled the next generation of its LinuxONE server, a highly scalable Linux and Kubernetes-based platform, designed to deliver scalability to support thousands of workloads in the footprint of a single system1. IBM LinuxONE Emperor 4 features capabilities that can reduce clients' energy consumption. For example, consolidating Linux workloads on five IBM LinuxONE Emperor 4 systems instead of running them on compared x86 servers under similar conditions can reduce energy consumption by 75%, space by 50%, and the CO2e footprint by over 850 metric tons annually2.
According to an IBM IBV study, 48% of CEOs across industries say increasing sustainability is one of the highest priorities for their organization in the next two to three years. However, 51% also cite sustainability as among their greatest challenges in that same timeframe, with lack of data insights, unclear ROI, and technology barriers, as hurdles. For these CEOs, scaling their business with modern infrastructure can often be one of the barriers to achieving sustainability goals.
"Data centers are energy intensive, and they can account for a large portion of an organization's energy use. But data and technology can help companies turn sustainability ambition into action," said Marcel Mitran, IBM Fellow, CTO of Cloud Platform, IBM LinuxONE. "Reducing data center energy consumption is a tangible way to decrease carbon footprint. In that context, migrating to IBM LinuxONE is designed to help clients meet their scale and security goals, in addition to meeting sustainability goals for today's digital business."
IBM LinuxONE Emperor 4 is an engineered scale-out-on-scale-up system designed to enable clients to run workloads at sustained high density and increase capacity by turning on unused cores without increasing their energy consumption and associated greenhouse gas emissions.2 In addition, clients can track energy consumption with IBM Instana Observability on LinuxONE.
IBM's portfolio of sustainability technologies includes solutions to design, deploy and manage energy efficient infrastructures and innovations with a hybrid cloud approach. IBM LinuxONE is one solution within the portfolio designed to optimize data centers by reducing energy consumption and improving energy efficiency. IBM LinuxONE Emperor 4 will be generally available globally on September 14, 2022, with entry and mid-range systems to follow in 1H 2023.
Shifts in the global economy have driven volatility and require flexibility in operational and technical decision-making. Built with the same security, scalability and reliability that has been the hallmark of IBM infrastructure, the next-generation LinuxONE also offers cloud-like flexibility. With a system built for rebalancing of resources in combination with on demand capacity, workloads can scale-up and scale-out dynamically and non-disruptively.
"For CIOs, change is happening at an unprecedented rate and requires organizations to invest in infrastructure that is stable, high value and energy-efficient," said Bjorn Stengal, IDC Global Sustainability Research and Practice Lead. "IBM LinuxONE provides organizations with a secured, scalable architecture to meet their government regulations and customer expectations."
At Citi, the bank's sustainability strategy is driven by a commitment to advance solutions that address climate change and support the transition to a low-carbon economy. Operationally, Citi is focused on reducing the environmental footprint of its facilities, including through improving hosting densities with lower power consumption. Citi is hosting MongoDB on IBM LinuxONE, leveraging the platform's security and resiliency, as well as elastic capacity to address unexpected demand.
"As our business grows and becomes increasingly digital-first, traditional IT solutions add more physical servers and increase required floor space," said Martin Kennedy, Managing Director, Citi Technology Infrastructure. "IBM LinuxONE with MongoDB provides vertical scale and critical protection against data breaches and cyber-attacks, helping optimize data centers while lowering our overall carbon footprint."
The new LinuxONE system also features pervasive encryption to protect data at-rest and in-flight, a priority for clients in regulated industries such as financial services. Building on IBM's cloud security leadership in confidential computing, IBM LinuxONE Emperor 4 protects data in use while providing end-to-end encryption. This comprehensive data protection profile provides businesses with a data protection strategy that underpins current and anticipated future cyber security protocols.
Today's hybrid and multicloud environments require clients to deploy workloads where it makes the most sense for their business needs. IBM Cloud Hyper Protect Virtual Servers provide a public cloud environment in which the cloud tenant maintains complete authority over Linux-based virtual servers for workloads that contain sensitive data. Built on IBM LinuxONE and running on IBM Cloud, this service provides customers complete authority over their encrypted data, workloads and encryption keys – not even IBM as the cloud provider has access.
IBM LinuxONE Emperor 4 supports a large number of Linux and Red Hat OpenShift-certified workloads, including data serving, core banking and digital assets. IBM LinuxONE Emperor 4 receives support from IBM Ecosystem partners, such as Illmuio, Metaco, MongoDB, NGINX, Nth Exception, Fujitsu Limited, Pennant, SQ Solution, Sysdig, Inc. and Temenos.
With cloud native development on LinuxONE, teams of developers can deliver portable and agile solutions without having to learn a new operating system. IT managers need a system that is easy to operate that supports common tools and provides a foundation for the future. LinuxONE enables managers to focus on delivering new services, instead of managing complexity across a vast number of servers. Based on Linux and Kubernetes, everyone benefits from open standards and an ecosystem that includes modern DevSecOps and cloud native tools.
"Together, Temenos and IBM LinuxONE can help major banks move to a modern architecture in a safe, predictable and scalable way, while reducing total cost of ownership and meeting their ESG obligations," said Philip Barnett, President of Strategy Growth at Temenos. "Temenos core banking running on the new LinuxONE servers can operate at a fraction of the cost of general-purpose servers and offer great scalability, resilience and speed to market."
To learn more, please visit:
- IBM LinuxONE TCO Calculator: by answering just a few questions such as hardware, workload type and software, the IBM LinuxONE cost estimator provides a high-level total cost of ownership based on industry-proven assumptions.3
- Register for the IBM zDay, a no-cost virtual conference, on Sept. 15, 2022 to learn more about LinuxONE through a dedicated track of sessions
- IBM LinuxONE Expert Care offers a way of attaching services and support through tiers at the time of product purchase. This offering provides the client an optimum level of support over multiple years for mission-critical requirements of the IT infrastructure.
- IBM Technology Services provide infrastructure services to help clients plan, deploy and optimize their IBM LinuxONE server and software stack to meet business needs.
Statements regarding IBM's future direction and intent are subject to change or withdrawal without notice and represent goals and objectives only.
IBM is a leading global hybrid cloud and AI, and business services provider, helping clients in more than 175 countries capitalize on insights from their data, streamline business processes, reduce costs and gain the competitive edge in their industries. Nearly 3,800 government and corporate entities in critical infrastructure areas such as financial services, telecommunications and healthcare rely on IBM's hybrid cloud platform and Red Hat OpenShift to affect their digital transformations quickly, efficiently, and securely. IBM's breakthrough innovations in AI, quantum computing, industry-specific cloud solutions and business services deliver open and flexible options to our clients. All of this is backed by IBM's legendary commitment to trust, transparency, responsibility, inclusivity, and service. For more information, visit www.ibm.com
Media Contact:
Ashley Peterson
ashley.peterson@ibm.com
1 Performance result is extrapolated from IBM internal tests running in an IBM LinuxONE Emperor 4 LPAR with 24 dedicated cores, 1536 GB memory and FS9200 storage NGINX pods on Red Hat OpenShift Container Platform (RHOCP) 4.10 running on a RHEL 8.5 KVM host. 64 RHOCP Compute nodes with 230 NGINX pods were running in parallel. The KVM guests with RHOCP Compute nodes were configured with 2 vCPUs and 16 GB memory each. The KVM guests with RHOCP Management nodes were configured with 16 vCPUs and 128 GB memory each. Results may vary.
2 Compared 5 IBM Machine Type 3931 Max 125 model consists of three CPC drawers containing 125 configurable cores (CPs, zIIPs, or IFLs) and two I/O drawers to support both network and external storage versus 192 x86 systems with a total of 10364 cores. IBM Machine Type 3931 power consumption was based on inputs to the IBM Machine Type 3931 IBM Power Estimation Tool for a memo configuration. x86 power consumption was based on March 2022 IDC QPI power values for 7 Cascade Lake and 5 Ice Lake server models, with 32 to 112 cores per server. All compared x86 servers were 2 or 4 socket servers. IBM Z and x86 are running 24x7x365 with production and non-production workloads. Savings assumes a Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE) ratio of 1.57 to calculate additional power for data center cooling. PUE is based on Uptime Institute 2021 Global Data Center Survey. CO2e and other equivalencies that are based on the EPA GHG calculator use U.S. National weighted averages. Results may vary based on client-specific usage and location.
3Disclaimer: This tool provides a high level view of estimated costs and potential savings using publicly available IBM and third party server and pricing information in the United States as well as certain other information in consolidating from an x86 server environment to a LinuxONE environment. For a "Total Cost of Ownership" estimate, this tool considers certain factors involved in a three or five-year total cost of ownership including hardware costs, workload type, IBM and ISV software costs, certain facility costs (space, energy), maintenance charges, server utilization, hypervisors and migration. x86 hardware pricing is based on IBM analysis of U.S. prices as of February 2021 from IDC with a 30% discount. Certain assumptions used in the tool are based on data from hundreds of client studies performed by IBM and your results will vary depending on your environment and other factors. The information and data used to generate the results in the tool is current as of February 2021. Results will also vary based on the selections you make in using the tool. The output from the tool, including, but not limited to any accompanying summary of potential savings are estimates only and are provided on an 'AS IS' BASIS. Any reliance by you on using the tool and any output is at your sole risk and will not create any liability or obligation for IBM. IN NO EVENT WILL IBM BE LIABLE TO ANY PARTY FOR ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT, SPECIAL OR OTHER CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES FOR ANY USE OF THIS TOOL, WEB SITE, OR ON ANY OTHER HYPER LINKED WEB SITE, INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, ANY LOST PROFITS, BUSINESS INTERRUPTION, LOSS OF PROGRAMS OR OTHER DATA ON YOUR INFORMATION HANDLING SYSTEM OR OTHERWISE, EVEN IF WE ARE EXPRESSLY ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES. This tool is not for use in countries where such comparisons are limited or prohibited by law.
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SOURCE IBM | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/09/13/new-ibm-linuxone-servers-help-reduce-energy-consumption-clients-increasingly-make-sustainability-business-priority/ | 2022-09-13T04:58:55Z |
SAN JOSE, Calif., July 21, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Anixa Biosciences, Inc. (NASDAQ: ANIX) ("Anixa"), a biotechnology company focused on the treatment and prevention of cancer and infectious diseases, today announced that the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) has issued a Notice of Allowance broadening protection of Anixa's novel breast cancer vaccine technology, which has been exclusively licensed from, and is being developed in partnership with, Cleveland Clinic.
The patent is titled, "Breast Cancer Vaccine," and the lead inventor is Dr. Vincent Tuohy of the Department of Inflammation and Immunity at Cleveland Clinic's Lerner Research Institute. This patent is in the family of the originally granted patent, and it covers additional intellectual property related to Anixa's breast cancer vaccine technology.
"We are pleased to receive this notice of allowance from the USPTO, confirming additional protection of the breast cancer vaccine technology," stated Dr. Amit Kumar, Chairman and CEO of Anixa. "This breast cancer vaccine has the potential to prevent Triple Negative Breast Cancer ("TNBC"), the deadliest form of breast cancer, and perhaps other forms of breast cancer that express alpha-lactalbumin. With our partners at Cleveland Clinic, we are currently performing clinical testing of this vaccine, and hope to have preliminary results by year end."
One in eight women in the U.S. will be diagnosed with an invasive breast cancer at some point in their lives. Approximately 10-15% of those diagnoses are TNBC, however TNBC accounts for a disproportionately higher percentage of breast cancer deaths and has a higher rate of recurrence. This form of breast cancer is twice as likely to occur in African-American women, and approximately 70% to 80% of the breast tumors that occur in women with mutations in the BRCA1 genes are triple-negative breast cancer.
Anixa's investigational vaccine, currently in Phase 1 trials, takes advantage of endogenously produced proteins that have a function at certain times in life, but then become "retired" and disappear from the body. One such protein is a breast-specific lactation protein, α-lactalbumin, which is no longer found post-lactation in normal, aging tissues, but is present in the majority of triple-negative breast cancers. Activating the immune system against this "retired" protein provides preemptive immune protection against emerging breast tumors that express α-lactalbumin. The vaccine also contains an adjuvant that activates an innate immune response, which allows the immune system to mount a response against emerging tumors to prevent them from growing.
Anixa is a clinical-stage biotechnology company with a number of programs addressing cancer and infectious disease. Anixa's portfolio of therapeutics includes a cancer immunotherapy program being developed in collaboration with Moffitt Cancer Center, which uses a novel type of CAR-T, known as chimeric endocrine receptor T-cell (CER-T) technology, and, with partner MolGenie GmbH, a COVID-19 program focused on compounds targeting the Mpro enzyme of SARS-CoV-2, which is largely conserved across all recently identified variants. The company's vaccine portfolio includes a novel vaccine being developed in collaboration with Cleveland Clinic to prevent breast cancer – specifically triple negative breast cancer (TNBC), the most lethal form of the disease – as well as a vaccine to prevent ovarian cancer. These vaccine technologies focus on immunizing against "retired" proteins that have been found to be expressed in certain forms of cancer. Anixa's unique business model of partnering with world-renowned research institutions on clinical development allows the company to continually examine emerging technologies in complementary fields for further development and commercialization. To learn more, visit www.anixa.com or follow Anixa on Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook.
Forward-Looking Statements: Statements that are not historical fact may be considered forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are not statements of historical facts, but rather reflect Anixa's current expectations concerning future events and results. We generally use the words "believes," "expects," "intends," "plans," "anticipates," "likely," "will" and similar expressions to identify forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements, including those concerning our expectations, involve risks, uncertainties and other factors, some of which are beyond our control, which may cause our actual results, performance or achievements, or industry results, to be materially different from any future results, performance, or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These risks, uncertainties and factors include, but are not limited to, those factors set forth in "Item 1A - Risk Factors" and other sections of our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K as well as in our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and Current Reports on Form 8-K. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. You are cautioned not to unduly rely on such forward-looking statements when evaluating the information presented in this press release.
Contacts
Company Contact:
Mike Catelani
President
mcatelani@anixa.com
408-708-9808
Investors:
Eric Ribner
LifeSci Advisors, LLC
eric@lifesciadvisors.com
646-751-4363
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SOURCE Anixa Biosciences, Inc. | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/07/21/anixa-biosciences-announces-notice-allowance-additional-patent-breast-cancer-vaccine-technology/ | 2022-07-21T12:52:06Z |
Louisville City Council changes water and sewer rates
The Repository
Louisville City Council
Monday meeting
KEY ACTION: Adjusted water and sewer rates.
DISCUSSION: In order to provide a savings to users of more than 500 cubic feet of water on both the water and sewer billing amounts, Council approved billing adjustments.
Previously, when billing was bi-monthly, the schedules had a reduced rate at 1,000, 2,000, and 3,000 cubic foot increments. Now that billing is monthly, the incremental rates are reduced to 500, 1,000 and 1,500. A savings of approximately $10 results for a user of 900 cubic feet per month.
OTHER ACTION
- Gave emergency approval to adjustments in the revenue and appropriations budgets, a contract to purchase a skid steer through a lease agreement with Huntington Public Capital Corp., and a transfer of funds for the purchase of property at 2100 W. Main Street.
- Appointed John Shumacher to a vacancy on the Planning Commission.
- Appointed City Clerk Tiffany Justice as the designee for the Ohio Attorney General's Sunshine Law training for public records and open meetings.
- Learned that income tax revenues are up 7.5% through March 31 at $1.248 million compared to $1.161 million in 2021.
- Heard from Fire Captain Rob Yoder that the building at 2100 W. Main, being purchased by the city, would not be an idea location for the main fire station due to the number of calls coming from the east side of the city and the additional response time required from the far west side if the station was there.
UP NEXT: Meets at 7 p.m. May 2 at Constitution Center, 1022 W. Main St.
— David Scheurer | https://www.cantonrep.com/story/news/2022/04/19/louisville-city-council-changes-water-and-sewer-rates/7366272001/ | 2022-04-19T17:57:15Z |
STOCKHOLM, June 16, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- AlixLabs from Lund, Sweden, has developed a new, innovative method for manufacturing semiconductor components with a high degree of packing, eliminating several steps in the manufacturing process - Atomic Layer Etch Pitch Splitting (APS)*. The method makes the components cheaper and less resource-intensive to manufacture and can open up a new path for a more sustainable high-volume production of semiconductor components. In addition, APS enables the fabrication of tiny semiconductor components accurately and efficiently at a lower complexity.
AlixLabs is now pleased to announce the completed hook-up of Atomic Layer Etch (ALE) equipment in its clean room at ProNano RISE in Lund, Sweden. The equipment is the original ICP Reactive Etch tool from Oxford Instruments (UK), a Plasmalab 100 used during the original discovery of the APS method. Later the ALE process was also successfully transferred to another tool of the same make at Micronova, Aalto University in Helsinki, Finland, showing that the method is robust. Since then, additional ALE tools have come into play operating at Lund Nano Lab supplied by PlasmaTherm (USA).
In a statement from Dr. Dmitry Suyatin, CTO and Co-founder of AlixLabs, on coming R&D activities at AlixLabs, he said, "We are delighted with the support from The ProNano team and our local contractors LaonLink AB meeting the hook-up timeline. We can now go ahead as planned, starting up the APS process to accelerate our R&D efforts and offer wafer-level demonstrations of APS."
Dr. Jonas Sundqvist, CEO and Co-founder, added, "I am amazed that AlixLabs has reached this milestone on time as committed to our Board of Directors and Investors. Anyone in the business of installing gear in clean rooms will know what challenging time sourcing parts and components are right now with extreme lead-time on everything from piping and valves to vacuum pumps. We now move forward with our technology development roadmap setting up a wafer-level APS process in Lund to get ready for large wafers in 2023 and aim to have a demo ready 300 mm process in 2024. Ultimately, this type of leading-edge semiconductor processing technology happens on full size 300 mm wafers, and that is where we ultimately will go. However, in the meantime, we will also take opportunities to demonstrate the APS technology as they come on smaller wafer sizes."
"The next opportunity to meet AlixLabs will be at The AVS 22nd International Conference on Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD 2022), featuring the 9th International Atomic Layer Etching Workshop (ALE 2022). The conference will take place Sunday, June 26-Wednesday, June 29, 2022, at the International Convention Center (ICC) Ghent in Ghent, Belgium. On Tuesday, June 28, we proudly announce that Yoana Ilarionova will give an oral presentation in session ALE1-TuA-4 entitled In-situ Optical Emission Spectroscopy as a Tool to Characterize Cyclic Quasi-Atomic Layer Etching". We hope to meet you there!
* Atomic Layer Etch Pitch Splitting (APS). As previously reported (April 30, 2021), The US Patent Office has approved AlixLabs's patent application for nanofabrication by ALE Pitch Splitting (APS). The US Patent Office issued a patent (US10930515) on February 23, 2021. The patent covers methods to split nanostructures in half by a single process step using Atomic Layer Etching (ALE). The method can significantly impact the semiconductor industry by enabling sustainable scaling of electronic components and shrinking chip designs further in a cost-effective way. The method is complementary for single exposure Immersion and Extreme UV (EUV) Lithography and corresponding multiple patterning technologies like self-aligned double and quadruple patterning (SADP resp. SAQP) as well as multiple exposure lithography-etch and directed self-assembly (DSA). Association) https://www.semi.org/zh/world_fab_forecast_fab
CONTACT:
Jonas Sundqvist, CEO of AlixLabs, phone +46 767 63 94 67, email jonas@alixlabs.com
This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com
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SOURCE AlixLabs AB | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/06/16/alixlabs-ab-today-announced-completing-clean-room-hook-up-rampd-equipment-atomic-layer-etch-pitch-splitting-aps/ | 2022-06-16T11:04:59Z |
Watching Your Wallet: How to put the brakes on rising car insurance costs
Inflation impacting auto insurance rates
InvestigateTV - Auto insurance rates are not immune to inflation, as experts are predicting the price will rise for many in 2022.
Several major auto insurers, including Allstate, Progressive, Geico and State Farm, already increased rates in early 2022 in many states, according to Bankrate.
Rod Griffin, a senior director of consumer education and advocacy with Experian, says 1 in 4 Americans is increasingly worried about inflation.
”With the gas pump and the groceries and everything that we’re spending money on, it’s true for car insurance as well because the price of bumpers and vendors and cars themselves are increasing and that’s going to be passed on to us as consumers.”
So how do you work to cut auto insurance costs? Griffin has two suggestions: don’t get in any accidents and shop around.
You can ask your insurance company directly for available discounts for things like bundling auto and home or customer loyalty. There are also tools like Experian’s auto insurance comparison tool, which helps you find quotes from 40 different auto insurance providers.
Improving your credit score could also lead to lower costs.
Finally, another option would be to increase your deductible if you can afford it. Moving your $500 dollar deductible to a $1,000 deductible will likely reduce your rates.
Copyright 2022 Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved. | https://www.wibw.com/2022/06/09/watching-your-wallet-how-put-breaks-rising-car-insurance-costs/ | 2022-06-09T19:44:11Z |
IX AT 50: KSHSAA honors trailblazers at state basketball tournaments
June 23, 1972, President Nixon signed Title IX into law, prohibiting sex discrimination in educational institutions that receive federal funding. Title IX has largely been considered the springboard for high school and collegiate women’s sports to get where they are today — but the fight for equality is far from over. Every Thursday night at 10:00 p.m. leading up to the 50th anniversary of the law’s passing, 13 Sports will honor the women who changed the game for girls’ and women’s sports in Kansas.
“IX at 50: The Trailblazers of Women’s Sports in Kansas”
EMPORIA, Kan. (WIBW) - The Kansas State High School Activities Association honored women’s sports trailblazers at this year’s state basketball tournaments.
Each pioneer presented the game ball to officials prior to tip-off, and champions after the game.
Amanda Flick-Gutierrez was among them. She has volunteered at the 5A state tournament at Emporia State’s White Auditorium for the last two decades.
“These are kids out there that are giving it their everything,” she said. “That’s exciting for me to see.”
It’s a gym she’s quite familiar with.
The Mission Valley High School graduate was co-captain of the 1998 Lady Hornet basketball team that reached the Division II National Championship, finishing the season 33-1.
“That was one of the most amazing experience,” she said. “We had so many Emporia State fans down there in Pine Bluff, so it was one of the greatest experiences that I’ve had.”
Now, she’s helping the next generation of athletes.
“I’ve had two girls, I have a senior in high school and a sophomore, but those two groups I started coaching when they were in second grade,” she said. “I coached at the middle school here, so basketball is just a big part of who I am. And now rather than me playing, it’s me passing on that knowledge that I’ve gotten through the years.”
Things came full circle at this year’s tournament; Flick Gutierrez got to watch her daughter, Avery, finish her playing career with Emporia High.
“Pass on what you’ve learned, help get those experiences for others,” she said.
Eight women in total were honored the weekend of state:
- 1A DII Great Bend - Jackie Stiles (Claflin)
- 1A DI Dodge City - Michelle Stueve-Corpening (Olpe)
- 2A Manhattan - Kelly Moylan (St. Mary’s)
- 3A Hutchinson - Nicole Ohlde-Johnson (Clay Center)
- 4A Salina - Kendra Wecker (Marysville)
- 5A Emporia - Susan Woolf-McPherson (Andover) and Amanda Flick-Gutierrez (Mission Valley)
- 6A Wichita - Lynette Woodard (Wichita North)
Copyright 2022 WIBW. All rights reserved. | https://www.wibw.com/2022/04/01/ix-50-kshsaa-honors-trailblazers-state-basketball-tournaments/ | 2022-04-01T03:30:45Z |
Seasoned medical technology leader tapped to maximize momentum in APAC
MIAMI LAKES, Fla., July 8, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Cordis, a global leader in cardiovascular technologies, today announced that Bryan Loo will assume the role of President of the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region effective July 18, 2022. Loo will head a leadership team responsible for commercial and clinical strategy, business operations, and teammate development in the company's fast-growing APAC region.
"We are pleased to welcome Bryan to the team," said Cordis CEO Shar Matin. "He brings a depth of leadership and customer relationship-building experience in the APAC medical technology and healthcare markets that spans decades. He has a reputation for relentless execution and growing high-performing teams that produce results for the business and build strong relationships with physician customers."
Loo joins Cordis from Genesis Medtech, where he served as President and built the infrastructure for its vertically integrated, open-platform model. During his tenure at Asia Pacific Danaher Dental as President and Bayer Radiology as APAC Vice-President, he built a reputation for pivoting businesses to double-digit growth. He also previously held multiple roles at Cordis over a 16-year period, when it was a part of J&J Medical, including Vice President of Cordis China, delivering the largest revenue and highest profit in the division.
"I am honored to rejoin this new, reenergized Cordis team," said Loo. "Its legacy of providing trusted, differentiated solutions that improve patients' lives is unmatched, and now I see a compelling opportunity to participate in a new era of innovation and transformation that is possible as an independent Cordis."
According to Matin, Loo will leverage his deep roots in Asia to grow customer relationships and attract top talent that aligns with his vision for symbiotic teams that are inspired by the pioneering spirit that built Cordis over the past 60 years and is being rediscovered today.
Loo will be based in Singapore. He is a Business graduate of Nanyang Technological University and benefitted from executive leadership programs in Harvard Business School and INSEAD.
About Cordis
Cordis is a worldwide leader in the development and manufacturing of interventional vascular technology with a more than 60-year history of pioneering breakthrough cardiovascular technologies to treat millions of patients. With a reputation for clinical acumen, training, and services, Cordis established a legacy of innovation in high-quality and less-invasive cardiovascular products and built a strong global footprint with operations in more than 70 countries around the world.
Media contact:
Margaret-Sarah Alexander
Vice President, Head of Global Strategic Marketing
margaretsarah.alexander@cordis.com
m. 203-297-4182
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SOURCE Cordis | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/07/08/cordis-names-bryan-loo-president-asia-pacific-region/ | 2022-07-08T14:13:34Z |
Now home shoppers can use the Home Swap™ interest-free home equity advance to increase their down payment and lower their mortgage rate
NEW YORK, Aug. 2, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Buyers and sellers are quickly realizing that traditional home loans don't work when rising interest rates and home prices combine to make buying a home more expensive than ever before. Knock, the fast-growing fintech company that makes all homebuyers Power Buyers, today introduced two new features that give homeowners the ability to tap into the unprecedented equity gains they've amassed in their current house to make buying a new home more affordable.
Effective today, homeowners who take advantage of the Knock Home Swap1, which includes a competitively priced mortgage and 100% of the financing necessary to buy before you sell, are eligible to use the Home Swap's interest-free home equity advance in two ways to lower the interest and monthly payments on their new home. They can use it to:
- Buy down their mortgage rate by as much as 0.75%
- Make up to a 30% down payment on their new home, which would reduce their monthly payment further by as much as an additional one-eighth of a percentage point
"With mortgage rates doubling since the start of the year and home prices continuing to grow at double-digits, buying a home has gotten a lot more expensive. At the same time, homeowners have more of their wealth tied up in their home than any other time in history," said Knock Co-Founder and CEO Sean Black. "Thousands of homeowners have used the Knock Home Swap to work with the agent they trust to compete with cash offers to win their dream home and then move on their own timeline and sell for top dollar. Now, they can use it to buy down their rate and put more money down, which will drive their rate even lower."
In just a year, the typical U.S. homeowner saw their home equity increase $55,300 in 2021, according to CoreLogic, and with the median-priced home reaching a record of $416,000 in June that has only continued to increase in 2022. A homebuyer purchasing a median price home could reduce their mortgage payment by nearly 14%, or $259 a month, by leveraging the Home Swap's no interest equity advance to increase their down payment from 20% to 30% and qualify for a lower interest rate. Paying a point to lower their interest by 0.5% would trim an additional $90 per month, saving more than $32,000 over the life of the loan.2
The Knock Home Swap's interest-free equity advance loan covers the down payment on the new home, home prep and up to six months of mortgage payments on the old house. Home Swap customers are able to sell their old house on the open market for the maximum sale price after they've moved into their new home, avoiding the hassle of living through repairs or showings.
Knock also provides a 30-day closing guarantee, Home Prep Concierge and backup offer on the old house in the unlikely event that it doesn't sell within six months. More than 98% of Knock homes sell in 90 days or less, with 88% selling in 30 days or less.
Knock partners with more than 350 real estate brokerage firms with 120,000 agents in approximately 5,900 ZIP codes to bring its innovative home loan financing solutions to homebuyers nationwide on home purchases up to $3 million.
1Mortgage loans offered by Knock Lending LLC. NMLS 1958445. Equal Housing Lender. For licensing information go to: www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org.
2This example is for educational purposes only, rates are subject to change at any time.
Knock is rewriting the rules of homeownership with mobile technology and innovative home financing solutions that make all homebuyers Power Buyers. Knock's flagship Home Swap™ product empowers consumers with a non-contingent offer on their phone to buy the home they want before selling the home they have, providing certainty knowing you've found your dream home and the convenience of not having to live through repairs or showings. Knock GO™ (Guaranteed Offer) is a cash-like home loan solution for first-time homebuyers looking to compete in today's hot housing market.
Launched in 2015 by founding team members of Trulia.com, Knock currently operates in 75 markets nationwide. Knock has raised $900 million in debt and equity from top-tier investors, including Foundry Group, Greycroft, RRE, Parker89 and The National Association of Realtors®, giving NAR's 1.5 million members the ability to market Knock's homeownership solutions to their clients. For more information visit: knock.com.
Contact: pr@knock.com
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SOURCE Knock | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/08/02/knock-introduces-features-that-make-buying-new-home-more-affordable/ | 2022-08-02T10:16:16Z |
TORONTO, May 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ - Russel Metals Inc. (RUS: TSX) announces financial results for three months ended March 31, 2022.
Record Revenues of $1,339 Million and EBITDA1 of $153 Million
Strong Capital Structure with Liquidity1 of $457 Million
Non-GAAP Measures and Ratios
We use a number of measures that are not prescribed by International Financial Reporting Standards ("IFRS" or "GAAP") and as such may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies. We believe these measures are commonly employed to measure performance in our industry and are used by analysts, investors, lenders and other interested parties to evaluate financial performance and our ability to incur and service debt to support our business activities. These non-GAAP measures include EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA and Liquidity and are defined below. Refer to Non-GAAP Measures and Ratios and Adjusted Non-GAAP Measures on page 2 of our Management Discussion and Analysis.
EBIT - represents net earnings before interest and income taxes.
Adjusted EBIT - represents net earnings before asset impairment, interest and, income taxes.
EBITDA - represents net earnings before interest, income taxes, depreciation and amortization.
Adjusted EBITDA - we adjust our EBITDA to remove the impact of long-lived asset impairment, to calculate the Adjusted EBITDA.
Adjusted Net Earnings - we adjust our reported net earnings to remove long-lived asset impairment, net of income taxes, to calculate adjusted net earnings.
Adjusted Net Earnings Per Share - we adjust our reported net earnings to remove the impact of long-lived asset impairment, net of income taxes, to calculate the adjusted net earnings per share.
Liquidity - represents cash on hand less bank indebtedness plus excess availability under our bank credit facility.
The following table shows the reconciliation of net earnings in accordance with GAAP to Adjusted EBITDA for 2022 and 2021:
Our basic earnings per share of $1.56 for the quarter ended March 31, 2022, was higher than the $1.29 per share recorded in the first quarter of 2021 and lower than the $1.62 reported in the fourth quarter of 2021. Revenues of $1,339 million were a record and higher than the $885 million experienced in the first quarter of 2021 and the $1,147 million in the fourth quarter of 2021. Our gross margins were 21.7% for the first quarter of 2022, which were higher than historical averages but lower than the 28.8% in the same quarter of 2021 and 26.1% in the fourth quarter of 2021. Steel market conditions rebounded significantly late in the 2022 first quarter and resulted in both revenues and margins for the last month of the quarter being higher than the average for the quarter. Our Adjusted EBITDA, which equaled EBITDA, for the quarter was $153 million compared to Adjusted EBITDA of $129 million in the same quarter of 2021 and $164 million in the fourth quarter of 2021.
Each of our business segments generated strong operating results in the first quarter of 2022. Metals service centers had a quarter-over-quarter increase in tons shipped of 13% on a same store basis and 19% after taking into account a full quarter contribution from the acquisition of Boyd Metals ("Boyd"). This was accomplished in spite of weather and COVID related challenges that impacted shipping activities in the early part of the quarter. The steel distributors segment benefited from supply chain disruptions that continued to affect steel availability and our business was able to serve strong customer demand. In our energy products segment, the improved prices and activity in both Canada and the U.S. allowed our business to generate higher quarter-over-quarter revenues as it benefited from the continued recovery of the energy industry.
Market Conditions
Steel prices moderated through the early part of the 2022 first quarter but rebounded significantly during March 2022, due to reduced inventory in the supply chain, further global supply chain disruptions caused by the Russian invasion of Ukraine and strong demand. In the energy sector, operating conditions continued to improve in conjunction with the increased activity in the oil and gas sector.
Liquidity and Capital Structure Improvements
During the 2022 first quarter, we generated $43 million of cash from operating activities and ended the quarter with total available liquidity of $457 million.
Business Optimization
On March 31, 2022, we divested Apex Western Fiberglass Inc. ("AWF"), which was a part of our energy segment, for cash consideration of $10 million. There was no gain or loss on sale as cash proceeds equaled the net book value. We completed the sale to further refine our business portfolio and enhance our return on capital over the cycle, since AWF's returns did not meet our criteria.
Declaration of Quarterly Dividends
The Board of Directors approved a quarterly dividend of $0.38 per common share payable June 15, 2022, to shareholders of record as of May 27, 2022. We will continue our practice of prudently reviewing our dividend and ensure that it is supported by a strong balance sheet and cash flows.
Outlook
Demand remains strong for our metals service centers segment. Over the past year, steel prices and our margin dollars have remained above historic levels, and we expect both to remain above historical levels over the near term. New projects in the oil and gas sector and a short spring breakup should result in gradually improving demand in our energy products segment over the near-to-medium term.
Investor Conference Call
The Company will be holding an Investor Conference Call on Wednesday, May 4, 2022, at 9:00 a.m. ET to review its 2022 first quarter results. The dial-in telephone numbers for the call are 416-764-8688 (Toronto and International callers) and 1-888-390-0546 (U.S. and Canada). Please dial in 10 minutes prior to the call to ensure that you get a line.
A replay of the call will be available at 416-764-8677 (Toronto and International callers) and 1-888-390-0541 (U.S. and Canada) until midnight, Wednesday, May 18, 2022. You will be required to enter pass code 934317# to access the call.
Additional supplemental financial information is available in our investor conference call package located on our website at www.russelmetals.com.
About Russel Metals Inc.
Russel Metals is one of the largest metals distribution companies in North America with a growing focus on value-added processing. It carries on business in three segments: metals service centers, energy products and steel distributors. Its network of metals service centers carries an extensive line of metal products in a wide range of sizes, shapes and specifications, including carbon hot rolled and cold finished steel, pipe and tubular products, stainless steel, aluminum and other non-ferrous specialty metals. Its energy products operations carry a specialized product line focused on the needs of energy industry customers. Its steel distributors operations act as master distributors selling steel in large volumes to other steel service centers and large equipment manufacturers mainly on an "as is" basis.
Cautionary Statement on Forward-Looking Information
Certain statements contained in this press release constitute forward-looking statements or information within the meaning of applicable securities laws, including statements as to our future capital expenditures, our outlook, the availability of future financing and our ability to pay dividends. Forward-looking statements relate to future events or our future performance. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as "seek", "anticipate", "plan", "continue", "estimate", "expect", "may", "will", "project", "predict", "potential", "targeting", "intend", "could", "might", "should", "believe" and similar expressions. Forward-looking statements are necessarily based on estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by us, inherently involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results or events to differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements, including the factors described below.
We are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties which could have a material adverse effect on our future profitability and financial position, including the risks and uncertainties listed below, which are important factors in our business and the metals distribution industry. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: the volatility in metal prices; volatility in oil and natural gas prices; cyclicality of the metals industry; capital budgets in the energy industry; pandemics and epidemics; climate change; product claims; significant competition; sources of metals supply; manufacturers selling directly; material substitution; credit risk; currency exchange risk; restrictive debt covenants; asset impairments; the unexpected loss of key individuals; decentralized operating structure; future acquisitions; the failure of our key computer-based systems, labour interruptions; laws and governmental regulations; litigious environment; environmental liabilities; carbon emissions; health and safety laws and regulations; and common share risks.
While we believe that the expectations reflected in our forward-looking statements are reasonable, no assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct, and our forward-looking statements included in this press release should not be unduly relied upon. These statements speak only as of the date of this press release and, except as required by law, we do not assume any obligation to update our forward-looking statements. Our actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in our forward-looking statements including as a result of the risk factors described above and under the heading "Risk" in our MD&A and under the heading "Risk Management and Risks Affecting Our Business" in our most recent Annual Information Form and as otherwise disclosed in our filings with securities regulatory authorities which are available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.
If you would like to unsubscribe from receiving Press Releases, you may do so by emailing info@russelmetals.com; or by calling our Investor Relations Line: 905-816-5178.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EARNINGS (UNAUDITED)
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (UNAUDITED)
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL POSITION (UNAUDITED)
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOW (UNAUDITED)
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN EQUITY (UNAUDITED)
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN EQUITY (UNAUDITED)
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SOURCE Russel Metals Inc. | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/05/03/russel-metals-announces-2022-first-quarter-results/ | 2022-05-04T06:21:30Z |
LOS ANGELES, Sept. 16, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- California Governor Gavin Newsom took action to uncover why Californians are paying so much for their gasoline when he signed legislation today requiring oil refiners to disclose their profits from refining oil into gasoline monthly.
SB 1322 (Allen), the Oil Refiner Price Disclosure Act, will require the state's oil refiners to report monthly on the cost of the crude oil they buy, the wholesale price of the gasoline they sell, and their profits made per gallon.
Californians are now paying $1.49 more per gallon for gasoline than US drivers, according to the most recent report from the U.S. Energy Information Administration. While refiners blame added taxes and environmental regulation, those costs add only 60 cents per gallon.
"For far too long, refiners in our state have been able to keep their profit margins under wraps," said Senator Ben Allen, the bill's author. "I am very pleased by Governor Newsom's signing of SB 1322, finally giving California drivers more information about why they are paying so much at the pump amidst record gains by oil companies."
"The Governor today took the first step towards dealing with the excess profits California's oil refiners appear to be making based on their investor reports," said Jamie Court, president of Consumer Watchdog. "Oil refiner transparency about their profits and costs is critical to the legislature having the information it needs to take action against unreasonable, excess profits. We applaud Governor Newsom for signing the toughest oil refiner transparency law in the nation."
The current price spike in California is the result of limited refinery capacity issues in California and problems at the refineries. Since five refiners control the market, they profit from every hiccup in production. California refiners are not currently required to report their profits monthly, but many do report their regional profits to investors on a quarterly basis.
In just the second quarter of 2022, California's five big oil refiners reported unprecedented windfall profits that topped $26 billion—making from three to ten times more in profits per gallon off their West Coast operations from April through June than they did in the same period last year.
A review of profit reports conducted by Consumer Watchdog found that profits per gallon from West Coast operations registered highest among each refiner's reported regions across the United States and world.
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SOURCE Consumer Watchdog | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/09/16/gov-newsom-signs-into-law-legislation-requiring-ca-oil-refiners-report-their-profits-per-gallon-says-consumer-watchdog/ | 2022-09-17T13:42:47Z |
Taking a higher dose of vitamin D to protect your bones isn't necessary if you are a healthy middle-aged or older adult with no existing bone disease or vitamin D deficiency, a new study found. Vitamin D is needed by the body to fully absorb calcium and phosphorus from food.
Taking 2,000 IU (international units) a day of supplemental vitamin D3 without calcium over the course of more than five years did not reduce hip, wrist or pelvic fractures when compared with taking a daily placebo, according to the study published Wednesday in The New England Journal of Medicine.
A placebo is a sham pill given to patients so they will believe they are getting the real treatment.
"This is the largest, longest, randomized controlled trial on vitamin D supplementation in the US -- 25,871 men and women were enrolled from all 50 states, including 20% Black participants," said study author Dr. Meryl LeBoff, chief of the calcium and bone section in the Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension Division at Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston.
"Overall, the results from this large clinical trial do not support the use of vitamin D supplements to reduce fractures in generally healthy US men and women," said LeBoff, also a professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School.
"The study validity is excellent. It is in alignment with previous data showing that a population unselected for vitamin D deficiency does not benefit from vitamin D supplementation," said Dr. Anne Rentoumis Cappola, a professor of medicine in the Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism at the University of Pennsylvania's Perelman School of Medicine in Philadelphia.
"Randomized clinical trial data are the highest level of data and those have repeatedly failed to show benefit from any vitamin when given to an unselected study population," said Cappola, who was not involved in the study.
Doesn't apply to everyone
However, the study results would not apply to people with a severe vitamin D deficiency, LeBoff said. Nor does it apply to anyone with low bone mass, which is less than optimal bone mineral density, or osteoporosis, a bone-thinning disease that causes bones to become so brittle that a fall or even a mild stress might cause a fracture.
"This is a major public health problem in the US. One out of two women age 50 and older will develop an osteoporosis-related fracture in their remaining lifetime," LeBoff said. "It's really important that patients with osteoporosis be evaluated for the many underlying factors that contribute to osteoporosis to see if there's any reversible causes."
The study results also don't apply to elderly in nursing homes, LeBoff said, because of the unique factors that apply to their living environments.
"They may not get out to get sunlight exposure to their skin, which is a major source of activation of vitamin D," she said. "They may not have good nutrition, they may have other medical conditions or gastrointestinal problems, so they should talk to their doctor about their patient care."
Need for vitamin D
The body needs vitamin D. The vitamin's main job is to help the body absorb calcium from the intestines -- in fact, the body cannot absorb calcium unless vitamin D is present. The vitamin also plays a role in immune health, brain cell activity and how muscles function.
In the United States, 15 micrograms, or 600 international units (IU) of vitamin D a day, is recommended for adults up to 70 years old, according to the National Institutes of Health.
For adults older than 70, the dose rises to 20 micrograms or 800 IU each day. The American Academy of Pediatrics recently doubled the recommended amount for infants, children and adolescents to 10 micrograms or 400 IU per day.
Unlike water-soluble vitamins, which the body can easily eliminate, vitamin D and its cousins A, E and K, accumulate in the liver and fat cells of the body until they are needed. Consuming well over the daily recommended dose can build up to toxic levels.
A 2017 study found 3% of Americans took more than the tolerable upper limit of 4,000 IU daily for adults, thus putting themselves at risk for an overdose. About 18% took more than 1,000 IU daily.
Just after the first of the year, a British man began suffering from nausea, abdominal pain, diarrhea and repeated bouts of vomiting, along with cramping in the legs and ringing in the ears after a month of taking massive amounts of vitamin D three times a day. His vitamin D levels remained elevated for months, his doctor said.
If vitamin D supplements are being considered, daily levels of vitamin D obtained from food should be factored into the decision, experts caution. In addition to fortified foods, eggs, cheese, shiitake mushrooms, salmon, swordfish, tuna, rainbow trout and beef liver contain vitamin D, as does cod liver oil.
Anyone concerned about their vitamin D levels should have them evaluated by a doctor, experts say.
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Eco Wave Power joins 150 companies, with a combined market capitalization of 1 trillion euros, to take action for a healthier ocean at the UN Ocean Conference
CASCAIS, Portugal, June 28, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- At the Sustainable Blue Economy Investment Forum in Cascais, Portugal, a special UN Ocean Conference event, Eco Wave Power Global AB (publ) (Nasdaq Capital Market: WAVE) ("Eco Wave Power" or the "Company") joined 150 major companies in signaling their commitment to a healthy ocean by signing onto the UN Global Compact Sustainable Ocean Principles.
In addition to the Ten Principles of the UN Global Compact, the Sustainable Ocean Principles provide a framework for responsible business practices across ocean sectors and geographies. Companies signing on to the Sustainable Ocean Principles commit to assess their impact on the ocean and integrate ocean sustainability into their overall strategy.
The world depends on a healthy, productive and resilient ocean for food security, climate mitigation and economic livelihoods. Climate change, overfishing, pollution, and unsustainable and inequitable development are damaging the health of our ocean and seas.
"Today's commitment by 150 blue economy companies showcases the private sector's willingness to support SDG 14. Healthy and productive oceans rely on all actors to do their part. I am encouraged by these companies and their commitment to integrate ocean health into their corporate strategies," said Sanda Ojiambo, Assistant Secretary-General and CEO of the United Nations Global Compact.
"The ocean is the source of all life on the planet, and our ability to mitigate the effects of climate change starts with the ocean," said Inna Braverman, founder and CEO of Eco Wave Power. "We are proud to stand strong with this coalition for a healthy and resilient ocean and contribute to it by working towards the commercialization of Eco Wave Power's pioneering wave energy technology."
Eco Wave Power joins some of the largest blue economy companies, including Mediterranean Shipping Company, Ørsted, SAP SE, and Thai Union, as one of the 150 signatories of the UN Global Compact Sustainable Ocean Principles, spanning 30 industries, 35 countries and six continents, with a combined market capitalization of 1 trillion euros.
Sustainable Development Goal 14 (Life below water) still has the lowest level of financial investment of any of the 17 SDGs 1 . There is a need for increased public, private, and blended financing to foster a sustainable blue economy.
The UN Global Compact announced it will join a coalition of global stakeholders to develop a universal guidance for Blue Bonds - a commitment to provide the global market consistency and transparency in financing the sustainable blue economy. The Global Guidance for Bonds Financing the Blue Economy aims to provide market participants with clear criteria, practices and examples for blue bond lending and issuances.
The full list of signatories on the Sustainable Ocean Principles can be found here.
About Eco Wave Power Global AB (publ)
Eco Wave Power is a leading onshore wave energy technology company that developed a patented, smart and cost-efficient technology for turning ocean and sea waves into green electricity. Eco Wave Power's mission is to assist in the fight against climate change by enabling commercial power production from the ocean and sea waves.
Eco Wave Power is recognized as a "Pioneering Technology" by the Israeli Ministry of Energy and was labelled as an "Efficient Solution" by the Solar Impulse Foundation. Eco Wave Power received funding from the European Union Regional Development Fund, Innovate UK and the European Commission's Horizon 2020 framework program. The Company has also received the "Global Climate Action Award" from the United Nations.
Eco Wave Power's American Depository Shares (WAVE) are traded on the Nasdaq Capital Market. More info: www.ecowavepower.com
Information on, or accessible through, the websites mentioned above does not form part of this press release.
For more information, please contact:
Inna Braverman, CEO
Inna@ecowavepower.com
+97235094017
For additional investor/media inquiries, please contact:
Investor Contact:
Matt Chesler, CFA
FNK IR
+1.646.809.2183
wave@fnkir.com
Media Inquiries:
Jacob Scott, Vectis Strategies
+1.412.445.7719
jscott@vectisstrategies.com
Forward Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the "safe harbor" provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and other Federal securities laws. Words such as "expects," "anticipates," "intends," "plans," "believes," "seeks," "estimates" and similar expressions or variations of such words are intended to identify forward-looking statements. For example, Eco Wave Power is using forward-looking statements when it discusses that it is working towards the commercialization of its pioneering wave energy technology. These forward-looking statements and their implications are based on the current expectations of the management of Eco Wave and are subject to a number of factors and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements. Except as otherwise required by law, Eco Wave undertakes no obligation to publicly release any revisions to these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. More detailed information about the risks and uncertainties affecting Eco Wave is contained under the heading "Risk Factors" in Eco Wave Power's Annual Report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2021 filed with Securities and Exchange Commissions (the "SEC"), which is available on the on the SEC's website, www.sec.gov.
1 https://www3.weforum.org/docs/WEF_Tracking_Investment_in_and_Progress_Toward_SDG14.pdf
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SOURCE EWPG Holding AB (publ) | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/06/28/eco-wave-power-takes-principled-stand-un-ocean-conference/ | 2022-06-28T14:26:42Z |
Emergency dredging taking place at Greer Island on Longboat Key
LONGBOAT KEY, Fla. (WWSB) - Visitors to Greer Island have been seeing and hearing some loud machines recently.
An emergency dredging project on the eastern side of the Longboat Pass Bridge is clearing the way for boats to be able to get through this part of the bridge.
“What we’re trying to accomplish with this project is to make a channel that is 300-foot long, 3-foot deep and 30-foot wide, in order to have access to this area by water,” said Guy Matricciani, Project Manager for the Town of Longboat Key.
Currents have pushed sand in the Long Boat Key area causing a buildup. Paul Toomey and his family enjoy Greer Island. Despite the temporary eyesore, Toomey says he’s happy to see this project being done.
“I think it’s a good thing for the community, that boaters can get out to this piece of property,” said Toomey. “It’s beautiful to take in the sunlight and enjoy the sand.”
Part of the problem was that the sand was coming up on the private property of a homeowner, and people were even using their dock. Town officials say this dredging project will help solve that issue and other problems as well.
“Town officials really take a lot of pride and care in making sure these canals and beaches are up to the best of their ability,” said Matricciani.
Town officials are saying the project should take at least another two-and-a-half weeks for this project to be finished.
Copyright 2022 WWSB. All rights reserved. | https://www.mysuncoast.com/2022/07/08/emergency-dredging-taking-place-greer-island-longboat-key/ | 2022-07-08T02:10:35Z |
- Basis' first full quarter under Creatd Ventures expected to accrue over $200K in sales, along with lowest CAC (customer acquisition costs) and highest LTV (lifetime value) of all portfolio brands.
- Company additionally reports Basis' first-ever brick-and-mortar launch with placement at Erewhon Market, and signs new distribution partnership with wholesale marketplace platform Pod Foods.
NEW YORK , June 1, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Creatd, Inc. (Nasdaq CM: CRTD) ("Creatd" or the "Company"), the parent company of Creatd Ventures, today provided an update for its direct-to-consumer (DTC) clean hydration beverage brand, Basis.
Life is dehydrating. The creators behind Basis set out to solve that problem. Basis was made to replenish electrolytes lost during the day, helping you to feel focused, energized, and relaxed.
Since Creatd Ventures' acquisition of the brand in March of this year, sales of Basis have grown to record levels, with strong sales volume demonstrated both through Basis' DTC website as well as through third-party distribution channels, including Amazon and Shopify. Additionally, Basis has begun capitalizing on Creatd Ventures' existing advantageous partnerships and wholesale distribution networks. Most recently, Basis has expanded its brick-and-mortar and online distribution, having secured a deal to join Creatd's wellness beverage brand Dune Glow Remedy in luxury grocery retailer Erewhon Market, known for its highly-curated roster of influencer-loved products. Basis has also been signed as a distribution partner with Pod Foods, a wholesale marketplace platform that connects emerging brands with a network of innovative retailers, which is already currently engaged in the distribution of Creatd Ventures' brands Camp and Dune.
Commented Thomas Punch, CEO of Creatd Ventures, "With Basis following in Dune and Camp's footsteps, joining their ranks in major retail and online distribution platforms like Erewhon and Pod Foods, we have validated our ability to leverage Creatd Ventures' proven capabilities for technology, e-commerce, and digital marketing to drive growth for our entire portfolio. As we continue to move forward with Creatd Ventures' long-term brand-acquisition strategy, we're on the hunt for similarly primed wellness brands with subscription potential that consumers can fall in love with."
While Basis leverages the proven distribution networks of Creatd Ventures' other portfolio brands, those existing brands–Dune and Camp–will similarly leverage Basis' fruitful relationships with third-party channels like Amazon and Shopify. The Company expects to further grow Dune and Camp's distribution within those widely-used platforms, perfecting the synergies working to propel Creatd Ventures towards its most profitable quarter yet.
Creatd, Inc. (Nasdaq CM: CRTD) is a company with a mission to provide economic opportunities to creators and brands by multiplying the impact of platforms, people, and technology. The Company has four main business segments, or 'pillars': Creatd Labs, Creatd Partners, Creatd Ventures, and Creatd Studios. Each pillar is characterized by a distinct revenue model, while operating on a shared-services structure and proprietary data collected from our multiple technology platforms. Creatd's pillars work together to create a flywheel effect, supporting our core vision of creating a viable and safe ecosystem for all stakeholders in the creator economy.
Creatd: https://creatd.com;
Creatd IR: https://investors.creatd.com;
Vocal Platform: https://vocal.media;
Investor Relations Contact: ir@creatd.com
Any statements that are not historical facts and that express, or involve discussions as to, expectations, beliefs, plans, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance (often, but not always, indicated through the use of words or phrases such as "will likely result," "are expected to," "will continue," "is anticipated," "estimated," "intends," "plans," "believes" and "projects") may be forward-looking and may involve estimates and uncertainties which could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements. We caution that the factors described herein could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statements we make and that investors should not place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements. Further, any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which such statement is made, and we undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances after the date on which such statement is made or to reflect the occurrence of anticipated or unanticipated events or circumstances. New factors emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict all of such factors. Further, we cannot assess the impact of each such factor on our results of operations or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements. This press release is qualified in its entirety by the cautionary statements and risk factor disclosure contained in our Securities and Exchange Commission filings.
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SOURCE Creatd, Inc. | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/06/01/creatd-ventures-provides-post-acquisition-update-its-dtc-wellness-brand-basis-surpasses-expectations-with-record-quarter-projected/ | 2022-06-01T20:24:41Z |
NEW YORK, July 6, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- On July 1, 2022 Roche Freedman LLP ("RF") and Schneider Wallace Cottrell Konecky ("SWCK") filed a class action lawsuit for violations of federal securities laws against Solana Labs, Inc., the Solana Foundation, Anatoly Yakovenko, Multicoin Capital Management LLC, Kyle Samani, and FalconX LLC ("Defendants").
Plaintiff Mark Young, a resident of California, alleges that Defendants violated Sections 5, 12(a)(1), and 15 of the 1933 Securities Act, and Sections 25110 and 2550 of the California Corporations Code. Plaintiff's claims are based on Defendants' sale of Solana securities without any registration statement in effect, and their promotion of unregistered Solana securities.
Plaintiff's claims are brought as a class action on behalf of himself and as a representative for a proposed class of other investors in Solana securities between March 24, 2020, and the present, inclusive (the "Class Period"). The case is pending in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California and is captioned Mark Young v. Solana Labs, Inc., et al., Case No. 22-cv-03912.
Solana Labs, Inc., is based in San Francisco California and issues securities that began to be offered to U.S. investors on March 24, 2020. Plaintiff alleges that Solana issues securities that are required to be, but are not, registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Throughout the Class Period, Defendants promoted Solana securities and sold them to investors such as Plaintiff, who has suffered losses from purchasing Solana securities.
Not later than September 6, 2022, which is sixty days from the date of publication of this notice, any member of the proposed class that is identified in Plaintiff's complaint may move to the Court to serve as Lead Plaintiff through counsel of their choice. The rules for the Lead Plaintiff process are provided by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 (the "PSLRA"). See 15 U.S.C. § 78u-4(a)(2)(A)(i)-(vi); § 78u-4(a)(3)(A)(i)(II); § 77z-1(a)(2)(A)(i)-(vi); § 77z-1(a)(3)(A)(i)(II). Any member of the putative class may also choose to do nothing and remain a member of the proposed class. The ability to share in any potential future recovery from this class action is not dependent on moving for or serving as Lead Plaintiff.
RF is a law firm based in New York City with additional offices in Miami. SWCK is based in Oakland, California, and has offices in Los Angeles, Houston, and Charlotte, North Carolina. Both RF and SWCK have served as lead counsel in securities class actions. Both RF and SWCK have recovered substantial sums of money for their clients in class action litigation. For more information about RF, please visit https://www.rochefreedman.com. For more information about SWCK, please visit https://www.schneiderwallace.com, or contact RF and SWCK as described below:
Kyle Roche
Edward Normand
99 Park Avenue, Suite 1910
New York, NY 10016
Tel: 646-350-0527
Fax: 646-392-8842
Email: kyle@rochefreedman.com, tnormand@rochefreedman.com
Todd Schneider
Matthew S. Weiler
2000 Powell Street, Suite 1400
Emeryville, California 94608
Tel: 415-421-7100
Toll Free: 800-689-0024
Fax: 415-421-7105
Email: info@schneiderwallace.com
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SOURCE Roche Freedman LLP | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/07/06/roche-freedman-llp-schneider-wallace-cottrell-konecky-bring-class-action-lawsuit-against-solana-labs-inc-solana-foundation-anatoly-yakovenko-multicoin-capital-management-llc-kyle-samani-falconx-llc-violations-federal-securities-laws/ | 2022-07-07T00:13:56Z |
The acquisition will Solidify TCOM Holdings' Global Leadership Position in Persistent Surveillance Platforms and Leading-Edge Radar and Sensor Systems.
COLUMBIA, Md., July 29, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- TCOM Holdings, the parent of TCOM, LP, the global leader in elevated ISR Awareness Solutions, announced it acquired Aerostar International, Inc. from Raven Industries, Inc., a subsidiary of CNH Industrial N.V. (NYSE: CNHI / MI: CNHI). Aerostar is a world leader in the design, manufacture, integration, and operation of persistent stratospheric platforms and radar systems with headquarters in Sioux Falls, SD. Aerostar will become an operating business unit under TCOM Holdings.
TCOM offers Multi-Domain Awareness solutions for Force Protection, Distant Warning and Targeting, Critical Infrastructure, and Maritime and Border Security missions. Its elevated ISR platforms are designed to collect information from multiple integrated sensors and provide situational awareness through integrated communications equipment. In this era of rapid technology development, maintaining security is an evolving mission with revolutionary threats to changing targets. TCOM's Elevated Awareness Solutions are custom tailored to meet our customer needs for today and tomorrow.
The Aerostar stratospheric balloons provide critical advantages for a wide range of missions, bridging the capability gap between aircraft and satellites. In border security, maritime, and air surveillance applications, Aerostar radar systems provide sophisticated statistical detection, tracking, and classification, as well as multi-sensor correlation.
Ron Bendlin, President and Chief Executive Officer of TCOM, stated, "We are excited to welcome Aerostar to our growing portfolio of Aerospace and Defense holdings. Our ability to leverage TCOM's proven elevated awareness solutions using tethered aerostats and Aerostar's sophisticated sensors and stratospheric balloons will more broadly serve our DoD, DHS, and allied military customers."
Jim Nelson, Aerostar's President, added, "The strategic alignment between TCOM, LP and Aerostar will enhance our ability to innovate in aerospace and defense, drive growth in our target markets, and expand our global reach to connect, protect, and save lives."
About TCOM, L.P.
TCOM, LP, a long-time global leader in Lighter-Than-Air platforms, is proud to offer a full line of elevated awareness solutions. Combining custom selections of the world's most advanced sensors, customer-specific communications, and intelligent user interfaces with a broad range of airborne platforms provides the end user with a cost-effective, unparalleled capability. For more information, visit www.TCOMLP.com.
About Aerostar
Aerostar is dedicated to connecting, protecting, and saving lives through its work as an Aerospace & Defense provider. Aerostar's core product offerings include stratospheric platforms, radar, and perception sensors, technical services, and protective wear. From engineering services to mission planning and support, research and design, and the development of advanced technical products, Aerostar offers tailored turnkey solutions for a multitude of successful operations. Visit www.AEROSTAR.com for more information about Aerostar.
For Media Inquiries:
For TCOM LP
Mr. Gal Borenstein, The Borenstein Group, Inc.
Gal@Borensteingroup.com
703-385-8178 x70
For Aerostar
Anastasia Quanbeck
Business Manager
Aerostar
Anastasia.Quanbeck@ravenind.com
(605) 360-9863
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SOURCE TCOM, L.P. | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/07/29/tcom-holdings-announces-acquisition-aerostar/ | 2022-07-29T17:57:08Z |
UK, US health officials investigating cases of severe hepatitis with unknown causes in children
By Naomi Thomas and Tasnim Ahmed, CNN
A slew of acute hepatitis cases among children in the US and UK have public health officials searching for the cause.
The World Health Organization has identified 74 cases of severe, acute hepatitis — inflammation of the liver — among children across the United Kingdom, it said in a news release Friday.
Alabama health officials released a separate statement Friday in which they said they have been investigating similar cases of hepatitis in kids in the state since November.
In its statement, WHO said that it has excluded hepatitis viruses type A, B, C, D and E as the cause of the liver disease in the UK cases. In the US, the most common causes of viral hepatitis are hepatitis A, B and C.
WHO also said that the virus that causes Covid-19 or adenovirus were detected in several of the cases.
WHO first identified 10 cases of the disease in previously healthy children between the ages of 11 months and 5 years across central Scotland on April 5. Further investigations across the UK identified a total of 74 cases, including the original 10, as of April 8.
In six of the children in the UK, the disease was so severe that they had liver transplants, but as of April 11, no deaths had been reported.
The Alabama Department of Public Health has similarly identified nine children, ranging in age from 1 to 6, with hepatitis. All of those children were also positive for the adenovirus, and two needed liver transplants. None of the children had any underlying health conditions, the department said.
“These children presented to providers in different areas of Alabama with symptoms of a gastrointestinal illness and varying degrees of liver injury including liver failure. Later analyses have revealed a possible association of this hepatitis with Adenovirus 41,” the statement said.
Adenoviruses are a common cause of cold-like illnesses and can cause conjunctivitis and diarrhea. Very rarely, the virus has been implicated in cases of hepatitis in people who have weakened immune systems.
“Although the potential role of adenovirus and/or SARS-CoV-2 in the pathogenesis of these cases is one hypothesis, other infectious and non-infectious factors need to be fully investigated to properly assess and manage the risk,” WHO said.
Only one of the UK cases had a confirmed close contact with someone with hepatitis. However, there have been no other epidemiological risk factors identified, including recent international travel, for the cases in Europe and the US.
“Overall, the aetiology of the current hepatitis cases is still considered unknown and remains under active investigation,” WHO said of the UK cases. Local health officials are doing additional testing for other infections, chemicals or toxins that may be a contributing cause.
Other countries have also reported small numbers of hepatitis cases in children. Fewer than five confirmed or possible cases have been reported in Ireland, and three have been confirmed in Spain. These cases are also being investigated.
A spokesperson for the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which has also been following the cases in Alabama, said that agency is in contact with health officials in Europe as they investigate the mysterious cases.
WHO cautions that it is likely that more cases will be detected before there are answers and that corresponding control and prevention measures have been taken.
“Member States are strongly encouraged to identify, investigate and report potential cases fitting the case definition,” it said. “WHO does not recommend any restriction on travel and/or trade with the United Kingdom, or any other country where cases are identified, based on the currently available information.”
The CDC is also developing a national health advisory to search for similar cases of hepatitis that have an unknown cause or are associated with adenovirus in the rest of the country, the Alabama Department of Public Health said in its statement.
The-CNN-Wire
™ & © 2022 Cable News Network, Inc., a WarnerMedia Company. All rights reserved.
CNN’s Dejania Oliver contributed to this report. | https://localnews8.com/health/cnn-health/2022/04/15/uk-us-health-officials-investigating-cases-of-severe-hepatitis-with-unknown-causes-in-children/ | 2022-04-15T23:46:15Z |
As waves of new coronavirus variants circulate the globe, one thing has become clear: human immunity against the virus fades over time.
To maintain durable protection against the virus that causes Covid-19, scientists are working around the clock to develop next-generation vaccines. But some of the nuances around why and how immunity against Covid-19 fades remain a mystery.
The steepest drops in immunity -- which come about four to five months after vaccination and up to eight months after infection, but can vary -- are against Covid-19 symptoms, getting infected and getting sick. Protection against severe outcomes, hospitalization and death remains much higher for a longer period of time, but even this decays to some degree, especially for the elderly and those with compromised immune function.
Since the early days of the pandemic, scientists have known that the coronavirus carries a structure called the spike protein, and it uses this crown of spikes to get into the cells it attacks. Our Covid-19 vaccines create antibodies to these spike proteins that bind to the docking sites on the virus, blocking them from infecting our cells.
Yet our safety net against the virus is wearing thin, in part because the virus is changing like a fugitive donning a disguise -- picking up mutations that change the shape of its spikes in ways that make it less recognizable to our immune system.
But there's another piece of the immunity puzzle that scientists are urgently trying to solve, and that is whether some of this drop off in our protection may be a result of the mRNA technology used to build some Covid-19 vaccines, such as those developed by Moderna and Pfizer/BioNTech, which were the first in the world to use this platform.
"Some vaccine platforms give a very high degree of protection but the durability isn't very long," said Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institutes of Allergy and Infectious Diseases in an interview with CNN.
Fauci said that the mRNA platform may be one of those.
In clinical trials, the new mRNA vaccines have proven to be astonishingly good at protecting people against illness, hospitalizations and deaths, at least in the short term. Fauci said mRNA vaccines have other advantages, too. It's relatively fast and easy to redesign them to better protect against new variants, for example.
"We got a really great platform with mRNA," Fauci said. "But let's try to be better. Because our experience, maybe it's peculiar to coronavirus, but I doubt it, is that the durability of the response you can be better on."
'We've got to get better platforms'
To be fair, Fauci said we won't know how long immunity induced by these kinds of vaccines may last until mRNA is used to make vaccines against a different type of pathogen, perhaps one that doesn't change as much as SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes Covid-19.
Definitive answers may be years away.
In the meantime, he said, we can't wait. We need to improve the vaccines if we're going to keep Covid-19 at bay.
"We have very good vaccines, but we've got to get better platforms and immunogens, maybe with adjuvants that allow us to have a greater durability of protection," Fauci said. Adjuvants are extra ingredients in vaccines that help them work better.
Other experts agree.
Deepta Bhattacharya heads a lab at the University of Arizona where he studies the lifespan of plasma cells, a type of long-lasting cell that makes protective antibodies. He's also interested in how various vaccine technologies influence the persistence of these cells in our bodies.
What we can tell after more than a year of experience with the mRNA vaccines is that their protection starts high but seems to fade more quickly than the immunity that remains after a Covid-19 infection, according to Bhattacharya.
"There have been a few side-by-side studies that have compared the mRNA vaccines to infection-induced immunity, and it seems like it slips a little bit faster than that," Bhattacharya said.
Though he cautioned that protection after an infection varies greatly from person to person just because everyone's immune system is a little different. There's no good way to know, right now, how well any particular person's immune system responds to a vaccine, which is why it's important to be vaccinated, even if you've already had Covid-19.
He added that when comparing the performance of the mRNA vaccines to adenoviral vector vaccines, such as those developed by AstraZeneca and Johnson & Johnson, people initially make a lot more antibodies after vaccination with an mRNA vaccine, but these levels seem to fall pretty steeply by around the six-month mark. Adenovirus vaccines use another virus as a Trojan horse to sneak instructions for making the spike proteins into cells.
With the adenoviral vector vaccines, antibody levels don't seem to climb as high initially as they do with mRNA vaccines, but they do seem to persist for longer periods at these lower levels, pointing to some difference in the body's response to them that we don't fully understand.
In a large study of more than 35,000 health care workers in the United Kingdom, compared to those who were unvaccinated, those who had two doses of the Pfizer/BioNTech mRNA vaccine were about 85% less likely to get a Covid-19 infection, through about two and a half months after their second dose. But by six and a half months, that protection against infection had fallen to about 51%.
The follow up period for the study was between December 7, 2020, when the vaccines were first given to healthcare workers in the UK to Sept. 21, 2021, so it doesn't include Omicron infections.
Health care workers with two doses of the Astrazeneca adenoviral vector vaccine were about 58% less likely to get a Covid-19 infection compared to those who were unvaccinated, through about two and a half months after vaccination, but the effectiveness of that vaccine appeared to increase over time, cutting the risk of infection by more than 70% about seven months after a second dose.
Health care workers who caught a Covid-19 infection, most of them happening in March 2020, before the era of vaccines, were initially about 86% less likely to be reinfected, and that protection lasted up to a year. After a year, it dropped to about 69% in workers who were unvaccinated, which was still better than the protection from mRNA vaccines alone.
Workers who had caught Covid-19 and went on to be vaccinated had the best protection of all, more than a 90% lower risk of getting Covid-19 again, and that combined protection stayed high for the duration of the study, which was more than 9 months.
This evidence and other studies, said Bhattachayra, suggests our immunity against Covid can be tweaked to make it last longer.
"I do think it's fair to ask more of our vaccines and that they sort of maintain that protection for longer," Bhattachayra said.
"I think there's still very clearly room for improvement because there are certain vaccines that do better" in terms of their durability, he said. "There's no question about that."
Other vaccines have needed improvements to help them last longer
Starting at two months of age, doctors recommend that babies get a vaccine against Haemophilus influenzae, or Hib, a common bacteria that can cause serious infections if it invades the lungs, blood or brain. These bacteria are coated with chains of sugars, or polysaccharides, that help mask them to our immune systems.
In the 1980s, scientists figured out that you could use those sugar chains to build a vaccine to protect children from serious infections.
"The initial Hib vaccine was a polysaccharide vaccine, but it did not induce long-lived antibody levels, so we don't even use it now," said Dr. Gregory Poland, an infectious disease expert who studies how the immune system responds to vaccines at the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota.
Today's Hib vaccine still contains the sugar chains, but they are linked to protein pieces that stimulate a different part of the immune system to better remember the bacteria. It's called a protein conjugate vaccine.
Another example of a vaccine that didn't ultimately provide long-lasting immunity was the pneumococcal vaccine for pneumonia. It, too, started life as a polysaccharide vaccine, but was changed to a protein conjugate after researchers determined that change could extend its protection.
Some vaccines use extra ingredients, called adjuvants, to hyperstimulate the immune system, which increases the strength of the protection people get from them. These kinds of vaccines are often used for older adults and others whose immune systems need an extra kick in the pants, so to speak, to work.
Certain vaccines inherently do this, just because of the way they are designed, Fauci said, and the nanoparticles being built into some experimental vaccines are an example of this.
Fauci added that he's not sure why the immune response triggered by mRNA vaccines may not be longer lasting. He has some theories, though.
One of the early failures in developing the mRNA technology was that when the chains of molecules called nucleic acids were injected into animals, they triggered an immune response too quickly. The animals got sick and their immune systems destroyed these chains -- or instructions -- before cells could read them and build the proteins they coded for.
One breakthrough in turning these instructions into vaccines was that the scientists who developed them figured out how to make a chemical change to the mRNA to hide it from the immune system until it could get inside cells, thus, reducing the risk of getting sick.
"They modified the molecule to remove the inflammatory aspect of it, to allow it to be used as a vaccine, that possibly--and I underlined 15 times, possibly--could be reason why," Fauci said.
"Maybe if we use this mRNA, but add a different adjuvant with it, you might get a really good response, the best of both worlds, you might get the real advantage of an mRNA together with a bit more durability, if you add to it an adjuvant as opposed to having the molecule itself be inherently adjuvant."
Bhattachyra has another theory about why the mRNA platform may not be lasting as long.
He said these vaccines instruct cells to build spike proteins from the virus and then display them on their surfaces, where they can be seen by the immune system.
But cells are giant compared to viruses -- about 100 times larger, he said, and viruses pack about 25 spike protein trimers onto their smaller surface, making them pretty densely packed. A trimer is a type of chemical compound or molecule that has three pieces.
"I don't know what the density of spike proteins is on a cell; it may not be as high as what it is on a virus, for instance," Bhattachyra said. No one really knows what the spike-expressing cells look like and how closely they resemble the virus they're targeting.
"It could be that the spacing is pretty infrequent and you're just not getting the level of activation that you would want," he said, adding "that's pure speculation."
Planning for the future
The United States is at a point in the pandemic now where health officials are grappling with the fact that to maintain immunity against Covid-19 in the community, the nation will either need to administer booster shots on a regular -- or possibly annual -- basis, or will need to rollout an entirely new vaccine altogether.
All vaccines have strengths and weaknesses -- but some of the nation's leading vaccine experts argue that more research is needed into the durability of the currently used Covid-19 vaccines as a potential weakness, as vaccine-induced immunity can decline within four to six months.
For instance, during the recent Omicron wave in the United States, the protection that vaccine boosters provide fell more than four months later from more than 90% to around 66% for protection against emergency room visits for Covid-19 and 78% against hospitalizations, Dr. Peter Hotez, CNN medical analyst and virologist and co-director of Texas Children's Hospital Center for Vaccine Development, told CNN.
"The big unknown is this: How much of that decline is due to something quirky because of the Omicron variant? Or, is this a weakness in the technology and it's not holding up? And it's very hard to sort out," Hotez said. "All vaccines have strengths and weaknesses, and it may be that for mRNA that it does not produce durable protection. It could be that you go in, use mRNA vaccines to rapidly immunize a population, stabilize it, but then over time, you're going to have to come in with a heterologous boost that's a different technology."
Hotez, whose lab has developed a Covid-19 vaccine called Corbevax, said that the White House should convene vaccine experts in a special meeting to "pin down" whether the technology has that weakness and what it means for future strategies.
In an effort to find the answer to maintaining durable protection against Covid-19, several research groups are working to develop so-called "next-generation vaccines" that aim to induce longer-lasting protection and even "pan-coronavirus" vaccines, ones that offer protection against multiple variants of the coronavirus that causes Covid-19.
"How do you make the Covid responses induced by vaccines more long-lasting? How do you make this process of inducing long-lived plasma cells more efficient? That's the name of the game right now," said Dr. Barton Haynes, director of the Duke Human Vaccine Institute.
"There are a number of groups working on mRNAs for the next generation vaccines full well aware that, for those vaccines to be more long-lasting, breakthroughs need to be made," he said.
Haynes is also working on a different type of vaccine — a nanoparticle containing fragments of the coronavirus' spike protein. This vaccine also includes an ingredient that enhances the immune response, known as an adjuvant.
A key long-term goal is to create a more universal vaccine that can work against new variants of this coronavirus, plus others that cause common colds and even ones we haven't identified yet. The protein-based vaccine is one of several that target conserved sites on the spike protein -- ones that don't mutate, lest they hinder their ability to infect human cells.
And Haynes said research in monkeys appears to show it does a better job than mRNA vaccines at generating those kinds of antibodies that provide broader coverage, as well. This may be due to a combination of how well the adjuvant works to stimulate the immune system, and perhaps the design of the nanoparticle itself, which almost looks like a virus, he added.
Regardless of the vaccine platform, "we're all going after formulations that will induce durable, long-lasting antibody and other types of T-cell immunity."
So far during the coronavirus pandemic, vaccine protection has been measured by the presence of antibodies in the blood. Antibodies are proteins made by the immune system to help fight infections. But there is more to the human immune system than just antibodies.
The immune system involves a host of players, including B cells, which produce antibodies, and T cells, which target infected cells during an infection -- and T cells are often part of emerging discussions around vaccine durability.
A study published in the journal Cell in January showed just how much of a role the other parts of the immune system play in the durability of protection following Covid-19 vaccination.
The study found that, among 96 vaccinated adults, even though antibody levels decreased against coronavirus variants, the T cells induced by various types of Covid-19 vaccines -- the Moderna, Pfizer/BioNTech, Johnson & Johnson and Novavax vaccines -- were able to recognize coronavirus variants, including Omicron, even though the vaccines were developed based on the original coronavirus.
"The important thing for our study was we collected all those samples at the same place with the same techniques and ran all the experiments head-to-head so it was really a fair head-to-head test," said Shane Crotty, virologist and professor at La Jolla Institute for Immunology, who was an author of the study.
Plus, those vaccines were developed using different technologies. Moderna and Pfizer/BioNTech are mRNA vaccines. Johnson & Johnson is a viral vector vaccine. Novavax, which is not yet authorized for emergency use in the United States, is a protein-based vaccine.
"The mRNA vaccines, both Moderna and Pfizer, generated these four categories: antibodies, memory B cells, helper T cells and killer T cells. Overall, the mRNA vaccines generated the best of all four of those," Crotty said, adding that among people who were vaccinated with Johnson & Johnson, generally there appeared to be less of all four and Novavax appeared to generate somewhat less memory B cells and significantly less killer T cells.
"So, there were some different mixes there," Crotty said. "Our immunological data are generally consistent with the vaccine efficacy data that's out there from the clinical trials and real-world studies that in general, the mRNA vaccines are better than J&J in terms of protection from infection but also protection from hospitalization, with Novavax being somewhere in between, but doing quite well."
Many experts seem to agree that discussions around future Covid-19 vaccination strategies should hinge on what exactly the goal of the vaccines are -- to prevent the spread of the coronavirus or to keep people out of the hospital.
"So if your goal is to prevent any new infections in our society, then yeah, we're going to have to keep boosting, because our antibody levels are going to decline -- no matter what kind of vaccine we get," Jen Gommerman, professor and acting chair in the Department of Immunology at the University of Toronto, told CNN.
She added that, among the vaccines authorized for emergency use in the United States, the rate of decline for the Johnson & Johnson vaccine is a bit lower than for Moderna's and Pfizer/BioNTech's mRNA vaccines. However, the peak level of protection that the Johnson & Johnson vaccine providers is lower than the peak for the mRNA vaccines.
"So, the raw amount of antibody in our serum is going down to a level where you will be susceptible to infection and the only way to get those antibodies back up quickly, is to either get infected or get boosted," Gommerman said.
"However, if we consider efficacy against hospitalization and severe disease, the data coming out show that three doses of the mRNA vaccine confirm excellent protection against hospitalization, ventilation and death," she said. "For me, personally, I would get a fourth dose if I knew it would serve public health reasons. But for me personally, I don't feel I need a fourth dose to protect myself against severe disease, hospitalization or death."
'Many more questions still need answers'
There are still many questions left to answer about Covid-19 vaccines and immunology, John Wherry, director of the Institute for Immunology at the University of Pennsylvania's Perelman School of Medicine, wrote in an email to CNN.
Those questions include: How long do memory B cells and memory T cells last? How do the vaccines containing the original coronavirus, identified in Wuhan, China, induce effective immune memory against all the variants so far? What immune mechanisms provide protection from infection versus protection from severe disease, hospitalization and death? Why do different people respond differently to these vaccines?
"These and many more questions still need answers if we are going to use this platform most effectively," Wherry wrote. Such questions also need answers in the context of vaccine durability, especially as the durability of protection and the durability of immune responses themselves are related -- but not the same, according to Wherry.
For the mRNA vaccines, "durability of protection is on par with other vaccine types from the analyses we have seen on the adenoviral platforms versus mRNA. Durability of immune responses -- it's been difficult to do really precise comparative studies longitudinally over a time frame relevant to answer this question," Wherry wrote in his email.
After all, the vaccines have only been around for about a year and a half, and answering questions around durability precisely can be founded by the introduction of booster shots and the incidence of breakthrough infections.
"This later point is relevant because it dramatically influences the durability to immune responses over time," Wherry wrote about breakthrough infections. "The bottom line is that the data so far look very promising for durability of immune responses and protection from severe disease. Protection from mild disease is much more difficult for this virus and might only be achieved transiently when antibody levels are extremely high."
The-CNN-Wire
™ & © 2022 Cable News Network, Inc., a WarnerMedia Company. All rights reserved. | https://www.albanyherald.com/features/health/the-quest-for-longer-lasting-covid-19-vaccines/article_be561680-b5eb-5b9e-a938-fce994f2e64e.html | 2022-05-20T11:52:17Z |
This game-changing facilities investment in women's sports is located close to
Downtown Kansas City, Mo. in Riverside.
RIVERSIDE, Mo., June 22, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Kansas City Current opened its new $18 million training complex today, the first purpose built specifically for a National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) team.
"From the moment we purchased the team, we knew these elite athletes deserved world-class facilities to call their own," said co-owner Angie Long. "In less than one year since breaking ground, our training complex is open. It's a true 'home away from home' for our players – a space designed exclusively for them."
Added co-owner Chris Long, "The overreaching goal in making an investment and commitment of this magnitude is to continue on our path of becoming the best women's soccer club in the world. Every detail of this facility has been optimized for this team and these players to stay at the top of their game in every respect."
The $18 million training complex, exclusively privately funded by team owners, was built using a sustainable and holistic approach. The facility is focused on all aspects of player health including training (elite weight, cardio and recovery assets) and nutritional (high performance chef, locally-sourced menus). In addition, the design is also focused on fostering player community and promoting physical and mental wellness. Beyond two world class pitches and a FIFA-approved turf pitch, the complex also includes nearby trails and an outdoor roof deck with views of downtown Kansas City.
The complex was designed by Generator Studio and built by Monarch Build, a female-owned construction firm.
"From the first moment I met with Angie, Chris and Brittany about building the training complex, their vision for this team was clear," said Monarch Build founder Courtney Kounkel. "Every decision has been player first focused. Collaborating with this ownership group and Generator Studio to create a world-class training facility for the KC Current athletes has been a career highlight. I can't wait to get started on the stadium construction."
"The KC Current training complex keeps players, coaches and staff in mind at every turn," said Jill Monaghan, senior project designer at Generator Studio. "It's also the first professional sports training complex in North America to be built with an all-wood structure, highlighting the team's dedication to sustainability and preserving the environment. The team is the heart of the building via a centrally located inner sanctum, supported by best-in-class amenities for players and staff which all focused on connections to the nearby pitches and views to downtown KC."
The training complex is phase one of the Kansas City Current's commitment to investing in women's sports and new facilities. Later this year, the team will break ground on a new $120 million soccer-specific stadium at Berkley Riverfront Park in Kansas City, Mo., the first soccer stadium purpose-built for a women's professional team.
About the Kansas City Current
Founded in December 2020, the Kansas City Current is led by the ownership group of Angie Long, Chris Long and Brittany Mahomes. The team competes in the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL). The Kansas City Current announced plans for the first stadium purpose-built for an NWSL team with expected completion in 2024. For more information, visit KansasCityCurrent.com.
MEDIA ASSETS
Photo and Video - https://bit.ly/39IqQe2
Grace Rogers
913.626.7419
grace.rogers@kansascitycurrent.com
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SOURCE Kansas City Current | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/06/22/kansas-city-current-officially-unveils-world-class-training-complex/ | 2022-06-22T12:47:48Z |
Imran Khan survived an attempt to oust him as Pakistan's prime minister on Sunday, after a no-confidence vote was blocked in Parliament by the deputy speaker.
Khan, who is facing the toughest challenge of his political career, requested the country's president dissolve Parliament and called on the nation to prepare for a fresh election.
Khan had been set to lose the no-confidence motion, which was backed by an alliance of politicians -- including more than a dozen defectors from Khan's own political party. But in a dramatic reprieve for the embattled leader, the vote was blocked as "unconstitutional" by the deputy speaker.
For months, Khan has been battling depleting foreign exchange reserves and double digit inflation, with the cost of basic necessities such as food and fuel skyrocketing.
Following the vote, Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry said Khan will now continue with his responsibilities under Article 224 of the country's constitution. But with no real precedent for Sunday's chain of events, it remains somewhat unclear as to what happens next.
Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, one of the leaders of the opposition, called Khan's move "unconstitutional," adding the matter will be taken up by the Supreme Court.
Pakistan's main opposition parties have been rallying for Khan's dismissal since he rose to power in 2018 after a dramatic election mired in accusations of vote rigging and foul play.
As frustration with Khan's leadership grew, the opposition filed a motion to hold a no-confidence vote in Parliament, accusing him of mismanaging the country's economy and foreign policy.
They had urged Khan to resign ahead of the vote. Khan retaliated by calling them "traitors" and repeatedly emphasized his desire to fight against the vote.
Khan's perceived failure to work in tandem with his allies, as well as country's powerful military, had led to a breakdown of relations within his coalition government.
Khan had previously appealed to defecting lawmakers to return to his party, promising they would be forgiven "like a father forgives his children." He warned that those who voted against him would face social disgrace, saying no one would marry their children.
Khan had called on his supporters in the nation of 220 million to rally in the streets of the capital, Islamabad, on Sunday in protest of the proposed vote. Security has increased around the city, with police patrolling the streets. The city's red zone, where government and military buildings are located, is sealed off with shipping containers.
Last week, tens of thousands of people gathered at the city's iconic Parade Ground, chanting slogans in favor of Khan, a former international cricket star turned politician.
No Pakistani leader has completed a full five-year term as prime minister since the country's formation in 1947. There are now concerns Khan's move to call an early election could risk further political instability in the South Asian nation.
The-CNN-Wire
™ & © 2022 Cable News Network, Inc., a WarnerMedia Company. All rights reserved. | https://www.albanyherald.com/news/pakistan-prime-minister-imran-khan-calls-for-early-election-after-no-confidence-vote-dismissed/article_958f28f4-b5bf-5a58-ac09-a41316103f3d.html | 2022-04-04T06:59:22Z |
NEW YORK, May 26, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Lument announced that it closed a $13.5 million proprietary bridge loan to facilitate the refinance of two multifamily communities consisting of 118 total units in Detroit, Michigan. James Kelly, director with Lument in Atlanta, led the transaction. The sponsor is Greatwater Opportunity Capital, a real estate private equity investment manager and development firm focused on Detroit and other emerging urban markets. Greatwater has deployed over $150 million of equity into Detroit neighborhoods, many of which are designated opportunity zones.
"We are always proud to work with organizations like Greatwater Opportunity Capital, which excels at producing positive local outcomes and superior returns by investing in opportunistic cities such as Detroit," said Lument's Kelly. "This marks our tenth fruitful collaboration, and we look forward to more success in the future and continuing to help Greatwater accomplish its strategy of acquiring, significantly renovating, and leasing up high-quality multifamily housing across the country."
Both properties were originally constructed in 1924. Greatwater acquired the properties in early 2020, at a time when the properties were in disrepair and had almost no occupants. The company promptly undertook $7.5 million in extensive renovations, which equates to $64,000 per unit, to dramatically overhaul the properties and turn them into first-rate multifamily housing.
The bridge loan has a two-year term and a variable interest rate. In addition to refinancing an existing construction loan of $10.6 million and lowering debt service costs, the closing provides cash-out proceeds to investors, funds immediate repairs required to complete substantial rehabilitation, and provides $625,000 for future renovations.
Located approximately half a mile apart, the communities are called Selden Manor, which features 48 units within a four-story building, and Heather Hall, which consists of 70 units within a ten-story building.
About Lument
ORIX Real Estate Capital Holdings, LLC, d/b/a Lument, is a subsidiary of ORIX Corporation USA. Lument is a national leader in commercial real estate finance. As the combined organization of legacy industry experts Hunt Real Estate Capital, Lancaster Pollard, and RED Capital Group, Lument delivers a comprehensive set of capital solutions customized for investors in multifamily, affordable housing, and seniors housing and healthcare real estate. Lument is a Fannie Mae DUS®, Freddie Mac Optigo®, FHA, and USDA lender. In addition, Lument offers a suite of proprietary commercial lending, investment sales, investment banking, and investment management solutions. Securities, investment banking, and advisory services are provided through OREC Securities, LLC, d/b/a Lument Securities, Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services are provided by OREC Investment Management, LLC, d/b/a Lument Investment Management. OREC Investment Management is registered as an investment adviser with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. For more information, visit www.lument.com.
MEDIA CONTACT
Tyler Howard | Associate Director
513-403-1911 | tyler.howard@lument.com
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SOURCE Lument | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/05/26/lument-closes-135-million-bridge-loan-two-multifamily-communities-detroit/ | 2022-05-26T19:29:07Z |
CHICAGO, June 21, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics strongly supports the new Keep Kids Fed Act, introduced June 21 in Congress, as a crucial step in addressing nutrition security among school-aged children in the United States. The bill was introduced by U.S. Sens. Debbie Stabenow (Mich.) and John Boozman (Ark.) and U.S. Reps. Bobby Scott (Va.) and Virginia Foxx (N.C.).
"Studies have shown that the school cafeteria is the healthiest place for children to eat in the U.S.," said registered dietitian nutritionist and the Academy's 2022-2023 President Ellen R. Shanley. "The Keep Kids Fed Act therefore is more important than ever in providing parents and guardians with the assurance that their children are receiving healthful meals to fuel them throughout this summer as well as the next school year."
The Academy commends the Keep Kids Fed Act, which grants the U.S. Department of Agriculture the authority to provide temporary waivers that will provide full flexibilities to summer meal programs, eliminate the reduced-price meal category and increase reimbursement rates in response to rising food costs.
"The Academy and our members have tirelessly advocated for the continuation of child nutrition waivers as the country continues to grapple with ongoing supply chain and labor shortages due to the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as inflation," Shanley said.
Because the pandemic has had a disproportionate impact on people from underrepresented communities and those with diet-related disease, access to healthful school meals promotes nutrition security as well as health equity.
While the Academy considers nutrition waivers to be a step in the right direction, the legislation comes late in the process as schools are organizing and operating summer meal programs and planning meal programs for the next school year.
"A better solution is to make school meals free for all children, all year," Shanley said. "The Academy has long advocated for Healthy School Meals for All and will continue to educate members of Congress on its benefits. We look forward to working with Congress on a permanent solution to issues of nutrition security for all, particularly for children."
Representing more than 112,000 credentialed nutrition and dietetics practitioners, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics is the world's largest organization of food and nutrition professionals. The Academy is committed to improving health and advancing the profession of dietetics through research, education and advocacy. Visit the Academy at www.eatright.org.
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SOURCE Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/06/22/protect-nutrition-security-children-academy-nutrition-dietetics-welcomes-new-bipartisan-bill/ | 2022-06-22T02:02:57Z |
BOUND BROOK, N.J. and LIVINGSTON, N.J., July 25, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Somerset Savings Bank, SLA ("Somerset Savings") announced today that its Board of Directors has adopted a plan of conversion to convert from the mutual to stock form of organization. SR Bancorp, Inc., a newly formed Maryland corporation ("SR Bancorp" or the "Company"), has been organized to facilitate the conversion and offer shares of common stock to certain depositors of Somerset Savings and others in a subscription and community offering. The number and price of the shares to be issued in the conversion offering will be based on an independent appraisal that has yet to be performed. In addition, and to further support the communities in which Somerset Savings operates, it is intended that a charitable foundation will be established and funded with conversion stock and cash as part of the transaction.
In connection with the conversion, the Boards of Directors of Somerset Savings and SR Bancorp entered into a definitive agreement to merge with Regal Bancorp, Inc. ("Regal Bancorp") and its subsidiary Regal Bank. In the merger, Regal Bancorp will merge with and into SR Bancorp, with SR Bancorp as the surviving entity, and Regal Bank will merge with and into Somerset Savings, with Somerset Savings as the surviving institution under the name Somerset Regal Bank. In connection with the conversion and merger, Somerset Savings also intends to convert to a New Jersey chartered commercial bank.
The plan of conversion establishes June 30, 2021 as the eligibility record date for determining the eligible account holders of Somerset Savings entitled to receive nontransferable subscription rights to purchase common stock. The transactions contemplated by the plan are subject to approval by (1) the voting members of Somerset Savings at a Special Meeting of Members; (ii) the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation and (iii) the New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance (the "Department"). The formation of the holding company as the parent company of Somerset Savings is subject to the approval of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System and the Department, if required.
Pursuant to the terms of the merger agreement, Regal Bancorp shareholders may elect to receive 1.93 shares of SR Bancorp, Inc. common stock (based on a $10.00 per share offering price) or $19.30 in cash for each share of Regal Bancorp common stock, subject to the allocation and proration procedures set forth in the merger agreement, which require that 80% of the merger consideration be Company common stock and 20% of the merger consideration be cash. If SR Bancorp issues a number of shares of its common stock in its conversion stock offering that is above the midpoint of the offering range established in the independent appraisal, then the aggregate stock portion of the merger consideration will be increased to 90%. The aggregate transaction value of the merger is approximately $58.4 million.
The merger agreement has been approved by the Boards of Directors of the Company, Somerset Savings, Regal Bancorp and Regal Bank. The merger is subject to the approval of the shareholders of Regal Bancorp and the completion of the Company's conversion and stock offering. In addition, the conversion is subject to the approval of the members of Somerset Savings. The transactions are also subject to the approval of bank regulatory authorities, as well as other customary conditions. The conversion, offering and merger are expected to be completed in the second quarter of 2023 and will be consummated simultaneously.
In announcing the transaction, William P. Taylor, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Somerset Savings said: "The simultaneous conversion and merger with Regal Bancorp, and our conversion to a commercial bank charter, marks a pivotal point in the history of Somerset Savings. This transaction not only combines two well-respected community banking organizations creating a combined franchise with complimentary business lines and over $1 billion in total assets, but also provides our depositors the ability to benefit as shareholders in the combined organization and allows our customers to benefit from the commercial lending expertise the Regal team brings to the combined company. Finally, the additional capital we raise in the offering will help support future growth as we continue our development as a full-service community bank."
Christopher Pribula, the President, Chief Operating Officer and a director of Somerset Savings, stated: "We look forward to partnering with the Regal team and providing a wide range of products and services to our combined customer base at the same level of quality customer service that has been a hallmark of both Somerset Savings Bank and Regal Bank."
The Executive Chairman of the Board of Directors of Regal Bancorp, David M. Orbach, and two other Regal Bancorp board members will join the board of directors of SR Bancorp and Somerset Regal Bank upon completion of the merger transaction. Mr. Orbach will serve as Executive Chairman of the Board of Directors of SR Bancorp and as Executive Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors of Somerset Regal Bank. Mr. Taylor will continue as Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Somerset Regal Bank and will serve as Chief Executive Officer and a director of SR Bancorp. Christopher Pribula will continue as President, Chief Operating Officer and a director of Somerset Regal Bank and SR Bancorp.
Commenting on the transaction, David Orbach stated, " Regal shares a like-minded philosophy with the executives of Somerset in their management style and adherence to sound principles. We are very excited to be partnering with an outstanding community bank that has a long history of providing quality financial products and services to the communities and markets it serves. I look forward to working together on the future growth and success of the combined institution."
Thomas Lupo, President and CEO of Regal, stated: "The merger represents a great opportunity for our shareholders, customers and employees. It will benefit the customers of both institutions, allowing us to offer our commercial lending products and knowledge to Somerset customers, while Regal customers will benefit from Somerset's residential lending products and experience."
Somerset Savings was advised by Keefe, Bruyette & Woods, a Stifel Company and Luse Gorman, PC. Regal Bancorp was advised by The Kafafian Group, Inc. and Windels Marx Lane & Mittendorf, LLP.
About Somerset Savings
Somerset Savings Bank, SLA formed in 1887, is a New Jersey savings and loan association. Somerset Savings is a full-service community bank headquartered in Bound Brook, New Jersey that operates seven branches in Hunterdon, Middlesex and Somerset Counties, New Jersey. At March 31, 2022, Somerset Savings had $649.0 million in total assets, $317.0 million in net loans, $525.0 million in deposits and total equity of $120.2 million. Additional information about Somerset Savings is available on its website, www.somersetsavings.com.
About Regal Bancorp
Regal Bancorp, Inc., which became the bank holding company for Regal Bank in 2017, is a New Jersey corporation and is registered with the Federal Reserve Board as a bank holding company. Regal Bank, formed in 2007, is a full-service community bank headquartered in Livingston, New Jersey that operates ten branches in Essex, Morris, Somerset and Union Counties, New Jersey. At March 31, 2022, Regal Bancorp had $544.7 million in total assets, $345.7 million in net loans, $480.5 million in deposits and total equity of $46.7 million. Additional information about Regal Bank is available on its website, www.regalbanknj.com.
Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are not historical or current facts and they often include words like "believe," "expect," "anticipate," "estimate," "intend" or similar terminology. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expected include delays in completing the liquidation and the dissolution. Except as required by law, none of the Company, Somerset Savings, Regal Bancorp or Regal Bank undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statement to reflect circumstances or events that occur after the date the forward-looking statement is made.
Additional Information
The offering by the Company will be made only by means of a prospectus in accordance with the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and all applicable state securities laws. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities.
The proposed transaction will be submitted to shareholders of Regal Bancorp for their consideration. The Company will file a registration statement, a proxy statement/prospectus and other relevant documents concerning the proposed transaction with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"). Regal Bancorp shareholders are urged to read the registration statement and proxy statement/prospectus when they become available and any other relevant documents filed with the SEC, as well as any amendments or supplements to those documents, because they will contain important information. You will be able to obtain a free copy of the proxy statement/prospectus, as well as other filings containing information about the Company, at the SEC's Internet site (http://www.sec.gov). Copies of the proxy statement/prospectus and the SEC filings that will be incorporated by reference in the proxy statement/prospectus can be obtained, without charge, by directing a request to Lisa King, Investor Relations, Regal Bancorp, 570 West Mount Pleasant Avenue, Livingston, New Jersey 07039, 973-716-0600.
The directors and executive officers of Regal Bancorp may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies from the shareholders of Regal Bancorp in connection with the merger. Information about the directors and executive officers of Regal Bancorp and their ownership of Regal Bancorp common stock may be found in its definitive proxy statement relating to its 2022 Annual Meeting of Shareholders, which can be obtained free of charge from Regal Bancorp by directing a request to Lisa King, Investor Relations, Regal Bancorp, 570 West Mount Pleasant Avenue, Livingston, New Jersey 07039, 973-716-0600. Additional information regarding the interests of these participants and other persons who may be deemed participants in the transaction may be obtained by reading the proxy statement/prospectus regarding the proposed transaction when it becomes available.
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SOURCE Somerset Savings Bank | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/07/25/somerset-savings-bank-conduct-conversion-related-stock-offering-merge-with-regal-bancorp-inc/ | 2022-07-25T22:15:51Z |
INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — Before three Dutch soldiers were shot, one fatally, in downtown Indianapolis, they were training in a southern Indiana military camp where international soldiers enter highly specialized urban combat simulations they might not be able to get in their own country.
Simmie Poetsema, 26, was identified Monday as the soldier who died of his injuries from the shooting Saturday outside a Hampton Inn where the men were staying. The two other soldiers have injuries that are not expected to be life-threatening, according to officials.
But police did not release additional information Monday about the circumstances of the shooting. No arrests have been announced.
Before the shooting, which police said they believe came after a disturbance, the men’s business was about an hour to the southeast — at the Muscatatuck Urban Training Center.
WHY TRAIN IN INDIANA?
Foreign soldiers often go to United States military facilities that replicate the “unpredictable realism” of battlefield situations within an environment that a soldier would encounter.
At Muscatatuck — where the three Dutch Commando Corps members involved in the shooting were training — “everything in the city and surrounding property, including the people, is ‘in play,'” its website says.
It’s a 1,000-acre (405-hectare) complex that trumpets hyper-focused training across land, air, water, technology and space.
Mark Cancian, a senior advisor at the Center for Strategic and International Studies and a retired Marine colonel, said Muscatatuck is “essentially a small city” for combat training. U.S. allies with troops from countries without the capacity for such facilities can learn in an environment that replicates the one they could fight in, he said.
“Europeans have things like that,” he said, but U.S. facilities are “more elaborate, in part because we have more money, and probably because we have more space, and larger forces.”
WHAT EXACTLY IS AT MUSCATATUCK?
The Muscatatuck complex had been a state-operated center for people with developmental disabilities since the 1920s, with more than 2,000 residents at one point before it was closed by the state. The Indiana National Guard then took over the site in 2005.
Military officials saw the campus of more than 60 buildings, nine miles of roads and more than a mile of tunnels — in a rural setting isolated from nearby communities — as an ideal place to replicate an urban territory for military training, including chemical or biological attacks.
“Our primary intent is to simulate real-world, urban scenarios through real and virtual training for first responders involved in counterterrorism operations,” then-Indiana Guard Adjutant General Martin Umbarger said in announcing the creation of the Muscatatuck center in 2004.
The Indiana National Guard said in a statement that the center is used for training by the Department of Defense “as well as other allies.” A spokesman did not respond to an interview request.
Those materials detail a training environment that mimics a city — with a five-story hospital, an oil refinery, a coal-fired steam plant, among many other features — as well as bits of infrastructure that might be found in a war zone, such as downed aircraft, searchable “rubble buildings,” a caved-in parking garage and a collapsed rail trestle.
WHY WERE THE SOLDIERS AWAY FROM THE BASE?
The Muscatatuck center is part of a larger installation called Atterbury-Muscatatuck that covers 36,000 acres, including some lodging options. It’s not clear whether the Dutch soldiers had been staying on the installation during any of their training. ___
Associated Press writer Tom Davies in Indianapolis contributed to this report. Arleigh Rodgers is a corps member for the Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues. Follow her on Twitter at https://twitter.com/arleighrodgers | https://cw33.com/news/u-s-news/ap-us-headlines/ap-explainer-why-dutch-soldiers-were-at-indiana-military-camp/ | 2022-08-30T04:43:20Z |
Pregnant woman fights HOV lane ticket in light of Roe ruling
DALLAS (Gray News) - A pregnant woman in Texas plans to fight a ticket for driving in a high-occupancy vehicle lane. She argues that the reversal of Roe v. Wade means her unborn child counts as a passenger.
Brandy Bottone got a $215 ticket after she was stopped at an HOV checkpoint near Dallas on June 29, just days after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade.
When the sheriff’s deputy asked who else was in the car, she pointed to her stomach, indicating her unborn child. She was 34 weeks pregnant at the time, according to The Washington Post.
“I pointed to my stomach. I was like, ‘Right here.’ And he said, ‘Well, it’s two bodies outside of the body. So, that doesn’t count,’” Bottone told CNN.
Texas’ penal code recognizes an unborn child as a person, but the Texas Transportation Code does not.
“It just didn’t make sense to me why two different laws were not speaking the correct way,” Bottone said.
Bottone tried to tell the deputies that with Roe being overturned, her fetus is now “a living child,” but she says they brushed her off, the Post reports.
“I was kind of in shock. I was like, ‘Well, in light of everything that’s happened – and I’m not trying to make a huge political stance here – but do you understand that this isn’t a baby?’” she told CNN.
Bottone says she is “pro-woman.” She plans to fight the ticket in court July 20.
The fall of Roe put in motion Texas’ trigger law that will ban virtually all abortions in the coming weeks, unless the patient’s life is in danger or if they are at risk of “substantial impairment of a major bodily function,” The Associated Press reports.
Copyright 2022 Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved. CNN contributed to this report. | https://www.mysuncoast.com/2022/07/11/pregnant-woman-fights-hov-lane-ticket-light-roe-ruling/ | 2022-07-11T09:45:06Z |
NEW YORK, May 5, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Halper Sadeh LLP, an investor rights law firm, is investigating the following companies for potential violations of the federal securities laws and/or breaches of fiduciary duties to shareholders relating to:
IntriCon Corporation (NASDAQ: IIN)'s sale to an affiliate of Altaris Capital Partners, LLC for $24.25 per share. If you are an IntriCon shareholder, click here to learn more about your rights and options.
Panbela Therapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ: PBLA)'s merger with Cancer Prevention Pharmaceuticals, Inc. If you are a Panbela shareholder, click here to learn more about your rights and options.
Tenneco Inc. (NYSE: TEN)'s sale to funds managed by affiliates of Apollo Global Management, Inc. for $20.00 per share. If you are a Tenneco shareholder, click here to learn more about your rights and options.
Renewable Energy Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: REGI)'s sale to Chevron Corporation for $61.50 per share. If you are a Renewable Energy shareholder, click here to learn more about your rights and options.
Halper Sadeh LLP may seek increased consideration for shareholders, additional disclosures and information concerning the proposed transaction, or other relief and benefits on behalf of shareholders.
Shareholders are encouraged to contact the firm free of charge to discuss their legal rights and options. Please call Daniel Sadeh or Zachary Halper at (212) 763-0060 or email sadeh@halpersadeh.com or zhalper@halpersadeh.com.
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SOURCE Halper Sadeh LLP | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/05/05/shareholder-investigation-halper-sadeh-llp-investigates-iin-pbla-ten-regi/ | 2022-05-05T13:51:44Z |
Milwaukee officials are urging the public to come forward with any information related to the killing of a transgender Black woman who was found dead two weeks ago.
Brazil Johnson, 28, was found fatally shot on June 15 in the city's Triangle North neighborhood. As of late Thursday, authorities were still searching for clues that can point to a suspect.
"We are outraged to hear of the loss of a young, Black transgender woman in our city," Alderwoman JoCasta Zamarripa said Thursday during a news conference.
"It is devastating that in light of Milwaukee's recent Pride celebrations, we are once again reminded of the harsh reality that transgender Black and brown women suffer higher rates of violence than their straight counterparts, as well as their lesbian, gay, and bisexual counterparts," she added.
At least 19 transgender people have been fatally shot or killed in the US this year, according to the Human Rights Campaign. In 2021, the campaign tracked a record number of such killings, with at least 50 transgender and gender non-conforming people killed.
Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson wrote on social media that he wants justice for Johnson.
"She was talented and loved, and the attack on her appears to be entirely unjustified," he wrote. "I also want an end to violence against any person victimized because of hate, discrimination, or ignorance. We must recognize that this violence exists, and, collectively, we must work to stop it."
Capt. Raymond Bratchett, who serves as a Milwaukee Police Department district captain, emphasized that even the smallest details can be a crucial lead that helps law enforcement in the case. People can report information anonymously through Milwaukee Crime Stoppers.
The investigation is ongoing, and the motive behind the attack remains undetermined, Bratchett said. It is not yet known if her transgender identity is tied to the reason she was killed.
Milwaukee County Supervisor Peter Burgelis acknowledged residents' tense relationship with the police department, but he implored anyone with information to share it with law enforcement.
"The trans community in Milwaukee is in mourning; they're in pain," he said. "Let's not forget Brazil Johnson's name and her story. And let's find the person or people responsible for this. If you know something, say something."
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Plumber, pipefitter apprentices display skills in statewide competition in Canton
CANTON – After more than four years of working and honing their skills, 33 apprentices from around Ohio are showing what they have learned.
The contestants have trained in plumbing, pipe fitting or HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems) skills with union locals that are part of the United Association Union of Plumbers, Fitters, Welders & Service Techs.
They have displayed their skills in a three-day competition at Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 94, which is one of 15 United Association locals in Ohio.
"We spend a lot of money every year on our apprentices," said Dana Shanower, the training director for Local 94.
The union's apprenticeship program runs five years. An apprentice will work with a journeyman to learn processes and skills associated with the trade. Training teaches the apprentice to do a job safely and correctly.
"There's a right and a wrong way to do everything we do," Shanower said.
Plumbers and Pipefitters apprentices work with local companies, while taking classes twice a week in the evenings. Apprentices spend time in classroom settings working on math and science, as well as learning how to use equipment and tools associated with the job.
After two years, an apprentice will focus on a preferred field, either plumbing, pipe fitting or HVAC.
United Association members can be found installing water systems in schools and medical grade gas lines in hospitals. They work with all types of pipe — steel, copper, PVC — in refineries, power plants, steel mills and other facilities.
"If it deals with a piece of pipe, we train for it here," Shanower said.
Apprenticeships teach a trade
Logan Weiser, from Wooster, had been working as an electrician but decided to join Local 94 and train in HVAC. He was following his brother who also is a Local 94 member, but opted for the HVAC trade training because of the wages and benefits.
He pursued a trade over attending college because he didn't want the debt that can accumulate with college loans. He also liked that he could work full time while training. He works for Columbus-based Speer Mechanical, which has a branch in Wooster.
"There's not enough people and there's plenty of work to go around," Weiser said.
Canal Fulton resident Steve Lunsford said he tried college but it wasn't for him. He found a good factory job, but soon realized he had reached the top and couldn't advance with the company.
Instead of chasing a different factory job, Lunsford joined Local 94 and learned pipe fitting.
"You want a career and a good life, so why don't you get into trade," he said.
Adam Campbell earned two associate degrees and also had a good factory job, but Local 94 offered "a better opportunity for a career." He trained as a plumber.
Weiser, Lunsford and Campbell are Local 94's apprentices in the competition.
Judges for the event come from United Association locals around the country.
Steve Masterson, with Local 110 in Norfolk, Virginia, was brought in to judge the crane competition. Contestants have to work with a crane operator to rig a section of pipe and place it where it can be installed.
"It's communications, control and safety," Masterson said of the crane works. After rigging and securing the piece so it can be moved, apprentices use hand signals to communicate with the crane operator.
"You need to make sure you're confident in what you do, but you never ever get too confident," he said.
Teaching apprentices is important to the trade union growth and future, Masterson said. "A big part of the job is to pass on to them what we have learned."
Bragging rights and more
Top finishers receive prizes and bragging rights for their locals. They also will participate in a regional competition at Louisville, Kentucky, in June. The national competition is in Ann Arbor, Michigan, later in the summer.
This year's competition is the first since the coronavirus pandemic, Shanower said.
Local 94 was slated to host the events in 2020 and again in 2021, but each year the union canceled because of the virus. This year, Shanower insisted that all contestants and judges be vaccinated.
"We did that for safety," Shanower said. | https://www.cantonrep.com/story/news/local/2022/04/21/local-94-union-hosts-statewide-contest-plumbers-pipefitters-canton/7379807001/ | 2022-04-21T12:07:37Z |
There are many things we do just because we’ve always done them. These things aren’t typically better or more efficient — they are just habits. Bending over to tie and untie shoes is a prime example. But that archaic way of putting on footwear is being challenged by Kizik. The company has a new, more efficient way to get dressed, and it is creating some very satisfied customers.
What are Kizik shoes?
Slip-on sneakers are not new or revolutionary. Vans introduced its Classic Slip-On in 1977. And traveling further back, Nils Tveranger’s Aurland shoe was introduced in the first decade of the 20th century. Kizik, however, is a newcomer to the hands-free shoe market. Though the company only launched in 2017, it quickly caught the attention of another, larger company: Nike. Nike invested in Kizik in 2019 and was rewarded with innovative technology designed to provide greater access to sports for all athletes. In the past few years, Kizik shoes have rapidly grown in popularity, proving to be more than a gimmick.
What makes Kizik shoes different?
Kizik shoes aren’t typical shoes. The company researched several materials that could be used to create a durable, flexible heel band for a long time before it discovered an ideal solution. Kizik shoes use an aerospace titanium that is strong, flexible and resilient. The material can hold up to over 40,000 flexes, which is roughly four years of daily wear. Additionally, the titanium band retains its beneficial characteristics in both hot and cold weather.
While the shoes didn’t start out as the most fashionable option, over the years, the company has created a wide variety of styles that are suitable for casual and athletic wear. The fabric is breathable and lightweight, making the shoes as comfortable as they are convenient.
Can Kizik shoes be washed?
While it would be convenient to be able to clean your Kizik shoes in the washing machine and toss them in the dryer afterward, the company does not recommend this. Instead, the cleaning instructions on Kizik’s website state: “Clean your shoes with [a] damp cloth, light soap, and water. Pat dry after cleaning.” While the insoles and laces can be removed and hand-washed, the shoes themselves should never be soaked. Also, no part of the shoe should ever be placed in a dryer.
Are Kizik shoes true to size?
Kizik’s official wording on shoe size is its “products are carefully tested to ensure they fit true to industry standard sizing.” However, if you read the details offered on each shoe style, you will find a disclaimer saying if you prefer more room, you should order your shoes a half-size larger. Additionally, it is wise to peruse the style-specific reviews to see if there is a sizing trend.
Who can benefit from wearing Kizik shoes?
In the general sense, anyone who prefers convenience can benefit from wearing Kizik shoes. They are well-made, comfortable, stylish, easy to don and reasonably priced. That is why these shoes are exploding in popularity. However, besides being a time-saver, Kizik shoes can benefit anyone with mobility issues — whether you are aging, pregnant or have any other condition that makes it difficult or impossible to put on shoes the traditional way. Kizik shoes can also be rewarding for children who are striving to be more independent.
What if I don’t like my Kizik shoes?
One consumer-friendly feature of Kizik shoes is that the company offers a 30-day guarantee. If you decide you dislike your Kizik shoes for any reason, and it has been less than 30 days since your order date, you may exchange or return them with no U.S. shipping or restocking fees. However, the one important stipulation is the shoes must be returned in their original condition: no scuffs, marks, signs of wear or any other damage. This means your trial-wearing period should not be done outside.
Best Kizik shoes
The Madrid features a breathable, stretch-knit upper with contoured footbeds and a lightweight, injected foam outsole for all-day comfort. It features a basic design and is available in a limited number of colors.
Sold by Amazon
The Prague has adjustable lacing to ensure a secure fit. It is one of the company’s more stylish lines and features a breathable canvas upper with rubber traction pods.
Sold by Amazon
The Vegas is a slightly higher-priced style. It has premium full-grain leather uppers that do not require a break-in period. This model also has adjustable lacing and Rabbit Foam outsoles for all-day wearing comfort.
Sold by Amazon
The Lima has solid rubber outsole wear pads that provide better traction. They are breathable and feature a more modern, athletic design than the other styles.
Sold by Amazon
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Copyright 2022 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved. | https://cw33.com/reviews/br/shoes-br/casual-br/kizik-slip-on-sneakers-are-exploding-in-popularity-heres-why/ | 2022-04-16T01:04:01Z |
- Expanding the Hifyre Platform into Colorado
- Additional two markets to be opened by Q4 2022
TORONTO, Aug. 25, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Fire & Flower US Holdings Inc. (formerly American Acres Managers) (the "Company"), is pleased to announce that it has completed a non-brokered private placement of unsecured convertible debentures (the "Debentures") in the principal amount of approximately $5,000,000 to the existing shareholders of the Company (the "Offering"). The net proceeds from the Offering will be used for acquisition capital, capital expenditures and general working capital. With operations already in California, operating as Fire and Flower and utilizing the Hifyre platform, this unique partnership allows expansion to additional states including Colorado, bringing with it the incomparable Hifyre technology optimizing the personalized connection to customers. They are anticipating accessing two additional states in Q4 of 2022.
"Our team is excited to expedite the deployment of resources to expand both the Fire & Flower brand and the Hifyre platform to additional states, improving overall customer experience," stated Joe Gullia, National Director of Retail.
The Debentures bear interest at 8% per annum and mature on August 2, 2024. The Debentures may be converted, in whole or in part at the option of the Company, into common shares in the capital of the Company ("Common Shares") at a minimum conversion price of $1.00 per share at any time prior to the maturity date. If Fire & Flower Holdings Corp. (TSX: FAF) acquires the Company under its purchase option previously announced on January 31, 2022, then the Debentures will automatically convert into Common Shares in accordance with their terms immediately prior to the closing of the acquisition.
Through its various US subsidiaries and investments, the Company owns and operates retail assets across three states. Through its licensing agreement with Fire and Flowers Holdings Corp. the Company leverages Fire and Flower Holdings Corp's branding and technology stack across it's operations offering a differentiating approach to the US retail market.
Fire & Flower Holdings Corp. ("FAF") holds an option to acquire the Company, which acquisition is expected to occur upon the federal legalization of adult-use cannabis in the United States or when otherwise permitted by the policies of the Toronto Stock Exchange (the "TSX") or any other stock exchange on which FAF's securities are listed for trading.
Media Contact: Katherine Gillis, katherine@merchdevgroup.com
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SOURCE Fire & Flower US | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/08/25/fire-amp-flower-us-holdings-inc-closes-5000000-convertible-debenture-financing/ | 2022-08-25T11:25:48Z |
Michigan governor sues county prosecutors and asks state Supreme Court to protect abortion access
By Kate Sullivan, CNN
Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer on Thursday filed a lawsuit against several county prosecutors in her state and asked the state’s Supreme Court to issue a decision on the constitutionality of abortion.
Whitmer filed the lawsuit Thursday morning in Oakland County, naming 13 elected county prosecutors located in counties with abortion clinics as defendants, according to a Whitmer official. The governor is suing to challenge the state’s abortion ban, which was put in place in 1931 but is not enforced due to Roe v. Wade, according to the Whitmer official.
Her office argues that the law is unconstitutional and violates the state’s due process clause that provides a right to privacy and bodily autonomy and also violates Michigan’s equal protection clause. The official said if Roe v. Wade is overturned and the 1931 law goes into effect, Michigan would have one of the most extreme abortion laws in the country.
The official said the goal of the lawsuit is to obtain more clarity about what the state’s Supreme Court thinks about the 1931 abortion law and the legality of abortion in Michigan ahead of Roe v. Wade potentially being struck down. The reason the county prosecutors are named as defendants is because those prosecutors would be the ones enforcing the abortion laws — including a potential abortion ban — and they represent counties that have abortion clinics, the official said.
“In the coming weeks, we will learn if the US Supreme Court decides to overturn Roe v. Wade. If Roe is overturned, abortion could become illegal in Michigan in nearly any circumstance — including in cases of rape and incest — and deprive Michigan women of the ability to make critical health care decisions for themselves,” Whitmer said in a statement. “This is no longer theoretical: it is reality. That’s why I am filing a lawsuit and using my executive authority to urge the Michigan Supreme Court to immediately resolve whether Michigan’s state constitution protects the right to abortion.”
The governor plans to use her executive authority to ask the state’s Supreme Court to recognize a right to an abortion under the state’s constitution. Whitmer is aiming for the court to strike down the law banning abortion in the state, which the official says could spring back into effect if Roe v. Wade is ultimately overturned by the US Supreme Court.
The moves by the Democrat, who is up for reelection in 2022, come ahead of a key US Supreme Court ruling that could significantly roll back abortion rights. The nation’s highest court appears poised to uphold a Mississippi law that bans abortion after 15 weeks.
The case is seen as a direct challenge to Roe v. Wade, the landmark 1973 Supreme Court decision that legalized abortion nationwide. The court’s ruling could be the most significant abortion rights ruling in decades.
If the Supreme Court upholds the Mississippi abortion law, access to abortion could be banned or restricted in many Republican-led states across the country. Abortion access could be elevated to a top campaign issue across the country just months ahead of November’s midterm elections.
The Biden administration has urged the Supreme Court to uphold Roe v. Wade — the landmark case that legalizes abortion nationwide prior to viability, which can occur at around 24 weeks of pregnancy — and to invalidate the Mississippi law.
President Joe Biden has said his administration is “deeply committed” to a woman’s right to have an abortion and that his administration would “protect and defend that right.” In September, Biden blasted a Texas state law that bans abortion after as early as six weeks into pregnancy as “extreme” and said it “blatantly violates” Roe v. Wade.
The Whitmer official said several attorneys from the state’s department of the attorney general have been placed behind a conflict wall and will represent the governor, and that attorneys from the law firm WilmerHale have also offered their services pro bono to aid in the governor’s representation.
The-CNN-Wire
™ & © 2022 Cable News Network, Inc., a WarnerMedia Company. All rights reserved. | https://localnews8.com/news/2022/04/07/michigan-governor-sues-county-prosecutors-and-asks-state-supreme-court-to-protect-abortion-access/ | 2022-04-07T15:45:15Z |
29 teachers resign from Nashville middle school
NASHVILLE (WSMV/Gray News) – Nearly 30 teachers have resigned from a Nashville middle school in the last year.
Since the beginning of the 2021-2022 school year, 29 teachers have quit their jobs at Oliver Middle School. Many cited poor leadership and communication, while some also claim the school does not follow proper safety protocols, specifically during lockdowns.
WSMV obtained statements from 13 teachers, 12 of whom have resigned. In the statements, teachers describe the school as an “environment of chaos.” Teachers detail how it is “impossible to feel safe at my place of work.”
The letters criticize the school’s handling of an incident in April where a student brought a loaded gun to campus, saying “even after the lockdown incident, safety measures at Oliver did not change.”
One teacher spoke to WSMV anonymously because she’s been transferred to another school within the Metro Nashville Public School District and said she fears retaliation. That teacher said she poured her heart into Oliver Middle School for more than a decade.
She left about a year ago, claiming things went on at the school that violated the district’s policies and cites a toxic environment created by the administration in the last few years.
“Teachers are being bullied,” the teacher said. “They are not being treated equally, and they are not being treated fairly.”
The turnover rate is alarming parents who voiced their concern at a school meeting Thursday.
“I want specifics on how you plan to regain our trust and be an effective leader knowing you have lost over half your teachers,” parent Christi Mayo said during the meeting.
The school district said most of the positions have now been filled. There are currently five vacancies. District spokesperson Sean Braisted explained the departures Thursday.
“Some are for personal reasons,” Braisted said. “Some are for promotions. Some are for other reasons.”
The district followed up and told WSMV Friday that some of the reduction in teachers is due to budget cuts as a result of enrollment losses during the pandemic. The district said Oliver Middle School is projected to see a decline of 80 students in the upcoming year as there are more students moving on to high school and fewer students coming in.
When the former teacher was asked if she would still send her own kids to Oliver today, based on the April incident with the loaded gun, she said she is hesitant.
“Knowing what I know just about that incident, their safety is on me if I send them,” the teacher said.
Teachers and parents claim turnover has far surpassed previous years. WSMV asked the school district how many resignations there were in previous school years dating back to 2017 for context, but the district has not provided those numbers.
In a statement, the district said, “We appreciate any constructive feedback from current and former employees on ways to improve the culture and climate of the school, and we encourage any staff of our schools who have concerns to bring those to the district to be investigated appropriately.”
Copyright 2022 WSMV via Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved. | https://www.mysuncoast.com/2022/07/18/29-teachers-resign-nashville-middle-school/ | 2022-07-18T15:53:40Z |
Proprietary concrete mix offers the same performance as traditional mixes, with significantly less carbon-laden cement
SACRAMENTO, Calif., Aug. 2, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Clark Pacific, a leading provider of prefabricated systems that are transforming building design and construction, today announced CARBONSHIELD, a proprietary concrete mix with 50 percent less embodied carbon. When combined with the benefits of offsite construction and efficient design, CARBONSHIELD has a significant impact on construction's carbon footprint.
While many sustainability efforts to date have focused on lowering operational carbon, the building industry is expected to add 230 billion square meters of new construction globally between now and 2060. In doing so, embodied carbon will account for half of the overall carbon footprint of new construction, equal to that of operational carbon. Lowering embodied carbon and working toward a sustainable future requires innovation in materials and construction.
CARBONSHIELD creates an opportunity for owners and architects to significantly reduce embodied carbon and meet sustainability goals. By leveraging factory-controlled accelerated curing techniques, CARBONSHIELD offers the same performance as traditional mixes, with significantly less carbon-laden cement. While "green concrete" options are often limited to elements that can tolerate slow strength gain, such as foundation or shear walls, CARBONSHIELD reduces carbon from all of a building's structural elements.
"As a leader in sustainable building systems, we never stop exploring new ways to reduce the carbon footprint of both our business and the structures we manufacture," said Geene Alhady, president of Clark Pacific. "CARBONSHIELD represents the next generation in concrete and prefabrication that is smarter, more efficient and sustainable, and is a key aspect of our company's strategy to reach zero embodied carbon. We're excited to bring our customers a way to take advantage of prefabrication and meet sustainability goals without sacrificing strength and quality."
CARBONSHIELD is one of many sustainability efforts led by Clark Pacific. The company's two plants are nearly zero-waste and designed for zero discharge of stormwater, incorporating sustainable practices such as water recycling for reuse in manufacturing, recharge of groundwater, solid waste recycling, energy conservation and sustainable business practices. In April, Clark Pacific announced plans to transition its consumption to nearly 100% renewable energy by installing solar arrays across all of its facilities, beginning with its Woodland facility which will go live this summer. Clark Pacific's use of solar energy will offset the impact of 14,976 passenger vehicles, or the energy consumption of 8,293 single-family homes, per year and is equivalent to planting 1,138,654 tree seedlings over 10 years.
For more information on CARBONSHIELD, visit www.clarkpacific.com.
Clark Pacific is one of the nation's leading design-build manufacturers of prefabricated building systems. Driven to deliver better buildings, the company has paved the way for prefabrication in the marketplace, bridging the gap between manufacturing and construction to deliver high-quality, cost-effective buildings on budget and on time. Clark Pacific's approach provides owners and design-build teams with greater schedule and cost certainty, cleaner and safer jobsites, higher quality systems and more resilient structures than conventional construction. For more information, visit www.clarkpacific.com.
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SOURCE Clark Pacific | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/08/02/clark-pacific-announces-carbonshield-proprietary-mix-with-fifty-percent-less-embodied-carbon/ | 2022-08-02T12:19:15Z |
SEONGNAM, South Korea, Sept. 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- NAVER Z, an affiliate of NAVER Corp. (KRX:035420), announced today that the company joined the Tech Coalition to prioritize the safety of children and teenagers in ZEPETO, Asia's largest metaverse platform. Tech Coalition is an alliance of global technology companies that are working to protect children from sexual exploitation and abuse on the internet and across digital platforms, and over 20 global IT companies including Google, Amazon, Microsoft, and Meta have joined forces.
As a member of the Tech Coalition, NAVER Z joins 27 companies that are working to develop new technologies, fund new research, increase reporting, and take collective action to ensure a more coordinated and collaborative approach to keeping children safe online.
For young users of ZEPETO, the NAVER Z updated the Community Guidelines, which highlight that minor safety violations are reviewed with the highest priority and severity, and published Guardian's Guide to equip parents, guardians, and caretakers with informative resources to help keep young users safe. NAVER Z's global Trust and Safety team is also working around the clock to develop tools and resources that prevent, detect, and remove accounts that engage in child sexual exploitation and abuse.
In addition to partnerships with Tech Coalition, NAVER Z is cooperating with leading global online safety experts and organizations, including ConnectSafely, Trust and Safety Professional Association, and BBB National Programs.
NAVER Z is committed to promoting the Voluntary Principles to Counter Online Child Sexual Exploitation and Abuse– a high-level framework developed by the Five Country Ministerial (Australia, Canada, New Zealand, UK and US) in consultation with leading experts intended to drive collective action to prevent these harms against children.
"We're thrilled to join the Tech Coalition and our peers working to combat child sexual exploitation and abuse online through collaboration," says Daewook Kim, Chief Executive Officer of NAVER Z. "ZEPETO is a platform that empowers users to connect and create without the boundaries of the physical world. Our key responsibility is ensuring ZEPETO is a safe place where our community, especially our younger users, can play and create without fear of harm. As a member of the Coalition, we will contribute to the industry-wide initiatives to develop technology, policy, research, and tools to keep children safe online."
"From our first conversation with NAVER Z, their strong commitment to protecting the children that use their platform has been clear," says Sean Litton, Executive Director of the Tech Coalition. "We look forward to working with them and aligning their expertise as part of our coordinated effort to create a digital world where children are free to play, learn, and explore without fear of harm."
About NAVER Z
NAVER Z launched the metaverse platform ZEPETO in August 2018, attracting users in more than 200 countries around the world. Creators and builders utilize ZEPETO Studio to connect with 340 million users globally, growing by 40% y-o-y. More than 95% of the users are millennials and Gen Z from outside of Korea, showing the virtual platform's promise for future growth. ZEPETO is collaborating with fashion and beauty companies, including BVLGARI, Ralph Lauren, Gucci and Nike, global entertainment agencies and pop stars, such as TinyTAN, Selena Gomez, BLACKPINK and NMIXX as well as companies, such as Starbucks, Samsung, and Hyundai Motor Company. Launched in 2020, ZEPETO Studio allows ZEPETO users to monetize their creations. More than 175 million items have been sold, building a new creator economy.
About the Tech Coalition
The Tech Coalition facilitates the global tech industry's fight against the online sexual abuse and exploitation of children. An alliance of technology companies of varying sizes and sectors, Tech Coalition members work together to drive critical advances in technology and adoption of best practices for keeping children safe online. The Coalition convenes and aligns the global tech industry, pooling their knowledge and expertise, to help all the members better prevent, detect, report, and remove online child sexual abuse content. The coalition represents a powerful core of expertise that is moving the tech industry towards a safer digital world.
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SOURCE Naver Corporation | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/09/14/naver-z-joins-tech-coalition-prevent-sexual-exploitation-abuse-children-online/ | 2022-09-14T01:13:13Z |
DALLAS, June 2, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- OrangeGrid, LLC ("OrangeGrid"), and Timios, Inc. ("Timios") announced a strategic partnership making Timios the preferred provider of title, escrow, valuation and asset management services within OrangeGrid's GridReady default management ecosystem. Additionally, Timios has made a significant equity investment in OrangeGrid to increase distribution capacity, and the companies will collaborate on a number of co-marketing initiatives to accelerate market adoption of the solution. Mortgage servicers who are GridReady customers will be able to seamlessly order title, escrow and valuation products and track fulfillment by Timios through the GridSource vendor management component of the ecosystem.
"The GridReady ecosystem is poised to disrupt default management by making modern workflow technology - which spans the business processes of both mortgage servicers and their vendors – easily accessible and rapidly deployable. Timios is excited to join OrangeGrid at the forefront of the digitization of mortgage servicing, enabling our servicing clients to experience the power of process integration that only OrangeGrid can provide," said Ray Davison, CEO of Timios.
"We're thrilled to welcome Timios as our first GridSource strategic partner and as an investor in our Company. This equity investment will enable us to significantly scale our product delivery resources to meet spiking demand from the rise in default-related activity, and the addition of Timios, a first-rate nationwide provider of title, valuation, asset management, and escrow services, will further enhance the value of GridReady for our mortgage servicing customers," said OrangeGrid CEO Todd Mobraten.
Mortgage servicers interested in learning more about the GridReady ecosystem and the Timios title and escrow services within GridSource should contact Dominic Baglio, SVP of Solutions Management at OrangeGrid (dominic.baglio@orangegrid.com) or Matt Golden, President of Timios (mgolden@timios.com).
About OrangeGrid, LLC
Dallas-based FinTech OrangeGrid is a developer and vendor of no/low code software technologies which improve the operational efficiency and effectiveness of financial institutions and their service providers. Learn more at www.orangegrid.com.
About Timios, Inc.
Westlake, California-based Timios provides a full suite of national title and settlement services, including a robust end to end suite of default services, Loan Modification, Foreclosure, REO Asset Management, BPO, Valuations, and Appraisal. Timios combines a knowledgeable and experienced team with innovative technology to deliver a holistic, best-in-class experience for its customers. With branch offices throughout the nation, Timios' unwavering approach to elevated client service levels has led them to become a preferred choice for many of the nation's top lending firms, as well as one of the fastest growing title and settlement firms in the real estate industry today.
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SOURCE Timios Holdings Corp. | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/06/02/orangegrid-announces-timios-partnership/ | 2022-06-02T20:22:36Z |
MOMBASA, Kenya (AP) — Extreme rainfall in southeast Africa has become heavier and more likely to occur during cyclones because of climate change, according to a new analysis released Monday by an international team of weather scientists.
Multiple tropical storms that pummeled Madagascar, Malawi and Mozambique earlier this year were analyzed by the World Weather Attribution group, who determined that the storms were made worse by the increase in global temperatures. In just six weeks between January and March the region saw a record three tropical cyclones and two tropical storms make landfall. The heavy rains, storm surges and floods left more than 230 people dead and displaced hundreds of thousands across the region.
The countries remain vulnerable to devastating weather this year, with cyclone season set to end in May.
The team of climate scientists used established peer-reviewed methods, including weather observations and computer simulations, to model scenarios using both preindustrial global temperatures and today’s — which is approximately 1.2 degrees Celsius (2.2 degrees Fahrenheit) warmer. The difference between the models determined the impact of human-caused global warming.
Sarah Kew, from the Royal Netherlands Meteorological Institute and participated in the study, said they investigated the influence of climate change using 34 prediction models but data gaps made it difficult to determine the full impact of increasing greenhouse gas emissions.
“While our analysis clearly shows that climate change made the storms more damaging, our ability to establish precisely by how much was hampered by inconsistent data and lack of weather observations,” said Dr. Kew. “This would also help to improve forecasts of extreme weather events and their impacts.”
In both Madagascar and Malawi, the study was contrained by a lack of weather stations with suitable data. And of the 23 weather stations in the affected regions of Mozambique, only four had complete records dating back to 1981.
“Strengthening scientific resources in Africa and other parts of the global south is key to help us better understand extreme weather events fueled by climate change, to prepare vulnerable people and infrastructure to better cope with them,” Dr. Izidine Pinto, a climate system analyst at the University of Cape Town, said.
The 33-page study was conducted by 22 researchers, including scientists from universities and meteorological agencies in Madagascar, Mozambique, France, the Netherlands, New Zealand, South Africa, the UK and the US.
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Associated Press climate and environmental coverage receives support from several private foundations. See more about AP’s climate initiative here. The AP is solely responsible for all content. | https://cw33.com/news/international/ap-international/study-africa-cyclones-exacerbated-by-climate-change/ | 2022-04-12T00:16:50Z |
BEIJING (AP) — Cities in eastern China suspended ferry services and classes and flights were canceled in Japan on Sunday as Typhoon Hinnamnor, the strongest global storm this year, blew its way past Taiwan and the Koreas with fierce winds and heavy rains.
Shanghai grounded ferry services and deployed more than 50,000 police officers to aid with rescues and guide traffic away from danger areas. The eastern business hub of Wenzhou ordered all classes suspended on Monday.
Hinnamnor is forecasted to move gradually northward into the East China Sea with maximum sustained winds of 175 kilometers (109 miles) per hour, according to the Hong Kong Observatory.
Evacuations and flight cancellations have been ordered in Japan’s southern Okinawa Island. The typhoon is also expected to bring intense rainfall to the Korean Peninsula, bringing the possibility of flooding.
China’s National Meteorological Center issued a yellow typhoon warning at 10 a.m. Sunday, and warned of heavy rains in northeastern Zhejiang, Shanghai and self-governing Taiwan.
Ships were told to return to port to take shelter from the wind, and the center also urged people against large gatherings both indoors and outdoors.
In Japan, the typhoon lashed Okinawa and nearby islands with heavy rain and fierce winds, threatening flooding and grounding more than 100 flights connecting the islands and parts of the main southern island of Kyushu.
Footage on Japan’s NHK national television showed trees violently shaken by the storm, with fierce rainfall hitting the pavement. A greenhouse for mangoes on Ishigaki Island was knocked down. On the main Okinawa island, two elderly people fell down and were slightly injured, according to media reports.
Officials said the slow-moving typhoon could add to rainfall and risks of flooding in the southern region where dense rain clouds have been stuck.
In Taiwan, over 600 residents in New Taipei, Taoyuan and Hsinchu counties were evacuated to shelters on Saturday amid the heavy rain and strong winds, according to the island’s Central News Agency.
The typhoon caused a landslide in Miaoli county and blew over some 100 roadside trees. About 40 flights and more than 100 ferry services across Taiwan were also canceled Saturday. | https://cw33.com/news/international/ap-international/ap-china-japan-ground-ferries-flights-as-typhoon-approaches/ | 2022-09-05T02:00:33Z |
CHONGQING, China, April 24, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- According to the Academy of Dazu Rock, after nearly two years of planning and production, the Dazu Rock Carvings micro-videos is soon to be released globally.
To develop Dazu into a world-renowned cultural center and enhance the international influence of Dazu Rock Carvings, the Academy of Dazu Rock Carvings, together with Chongqing International Communication Center and Chongqing Broadcasting Group, takes full account of the channels of mass media to release the videos in both Chinese and English.
As the only world cultural heritage in Chongqing and one of the important cultural symbols of Chongqing, the Dazu Rock Carvings are hailed as the last masterpiece in the history of human grotto art. They are famed for their grand scale, exquisite carvings, diverse themes, rich connotations, and well-preserved cultural relics.
"The Academy of Dazu Rock Carvings is responsible for the protection, management, research, and rational use of the Dazu Rock Carvings." Li Fangyin, Director of the Academy of Dazu Rock Carvings, introduced that the Academy is devoted to publicizing and displaying the artistic appeal and humanistic spirit of the Dazu Rock Carvings to the world. The Academy is speeding up its progress towards becoming a world-renowned research institute.
The series starts with "If the Dazu Rock Carvings Were a Stage Play," which gives an all-around interpretation of Dazu Rock Carvings from a new perspective. The video "Sharing Dazu Rock Carvings with the World" brings together the compilers of the book Complete Works of the Dazu Rock Carvings to share the aspirations and stories of those who have been caring for and supporting the research of Dazu Rock Carvings.
A micro-video producer said, "It took us more than a year to prepare for filming the micro-video. We tried to observe the time-honored Dazu Rock Carvings from the perspective of an expert, a tourist, a video producer, and even a stranger to introduce these statues to the audience with our shots and words." In the video, scholars, and experts who compiled the Complete Works of the Dazu Rock Carvings said, "Grottoes are weathering. The information they carry is disappearing with time. That makes me distressed… We, the archaeologists, are responsible for protecting and promoting Dazu Rock Carvings…. We want to share Dazu Rock Carvings with the world and make more people aware of them."
Click the link to watch the first video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3gn-v1W-R_8
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SOURCE iChongqing | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/04/24/world-premiere-dazu-rock-carvings-micro-videos/ | 2022-04-24T19:20:59Z |
- Valour has been admitted to The Financial Services Standards Association (in German: Verein zur Qualitätssicherung von Finanzdienstleistungen, "VQF"), a self-regulatory organization.
- The membership assures people that all DeFi Europe AG ("DeFi Europe") trade operations are compliant with Swiss anti-money laundering legislation and provides a regulatory stamp of approval strengthening the Company's trust as an issuer of digital assets
- The membership marks Valour as the first and only ETP issuer with admission to VQF association and it also enables the company to offer digital assets directly to businesses and institutions.
TORONTO, April 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ - DeFi Technologies Inc. (the "Company" or "DeFi Technologies") (NEO: DEFI) (GR: RMJR) (OTC: DEFTF), a technology company bridging the gap between traditional capital markets and decentralized finance, announced today that Valour Inc. ("Valour"), its wholly owned subsidiary and a pioneer in digital asset exchange traded products ("ETPs"), has been approved for a Swiss VQF membership through its Switzerland-based entity DeFi Europe.
The Swiss VQF membership was awarded by VQF, a self-regulatory association for the financial industry in Switzerland. The SRO is supervised by the country's official watchdog, the Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority ("FINMA").
DeFi Europe is a wholly owned subsidiary of Valour Inc. based in Zug, Switzerland. With the approval, DeFi Europe can now operate as a broker for digital assets, fully compliant with Swiss anti-money laundering legislation, enabling the company to offer access and liquidity in digital assets to businesses and institutions. The membership provides a regulatory stamp of approval strengthening the Company's trust as an issuer of digital assets. Valour becomes the first and only ETP issuer with admission to the VQF association.
"We see a tremendous amount of development across the broker landscape with continued adoption and demand for ETPs and digital assets," said Tommy Fransson, CEO of Valour. "In addition to ETPs, the most innovative brokers are searching for the possibility to offer crypto directly to their clients. With our state of the art infrastructure already in place, in combination with the transparency and trust that is a guiding principle for us at Valour, we see this as our next phase to leverage our existing operations that will enable us to support our counterparts."
"We continue to focus on providing transparency and utility to investors," said Russell Starr, CEO of DeFi Technologies. "Receiving admission to the VQF association further strengthens our value proposition and validates our ambition to be a leading provider of digital assets. We believe this will be an important step in our roadmap to access an even larger part of the institutional market."
Learn more about DeFi Technologies and Valour at defi.tech and valour.com.
The Financial Services Standards Association (in German: Verein zur Qualitätssicherung von Finanzdienstleistungen - VQF) is a self-regulatory organization. In Switzerland, the Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority (FINMA) is the Swiss government body responsible for financial regulation of financial institutes/intermediaries such as banks, insurances, broker-dealers, funds as well as SRO's.
DeFi Europe is a wholly owned subsidiary of Valour Inc. based in Zug, Switzerland. Once approved, DeFi Europe will be operating as a broker for virtual assets, fully compliant with Swiss anti-money laundering legislation and enable the company to offer access and liquidity in virtual assets.
Valour Inc. issues exchange-listed financial products that enable retail and institutional investors to access investment in disruptive innovations, such as digital assets, in a simple and secure way. Established in 2019 and based in Zug, Switzerland, Valour is a wholly owned subsidiary of DeFi Technologies Inc. (NEO:DEFI) (GR: RMJ.F) (OTC: DEFTF). For more information on Valour, visit www.valour.com.
DeFi Technologies Inc. is a technology company bridging the gap between traditional capital markets and decentralized finance. Our mission is to expand investor access to industry-leading decentralized technologies which we believe lie at the heart of the future of finance. On behalf of our shareholders and investors, we identify opportunities and areas of innovation, and build and invest in new technologies and ventures in order to provide trusted, diversified exposure across the decentralized finance ecosystem. For more information or to subscribe to receive company updates and financial information, visit https://defi.tech/.
This press release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking information includes, but is not limited to, statements with respect to: the DeFi Europe's Swiss VQF membership; the business plans for DeFi Europe; the growth and adoption of decentralized finance; the pursuit by DeFi Technologies of business opportunities; the development of future ETPs and the merits or potential returns of any such opportunities. Generally, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will be taken", "occur" or "be achieved". Forward-looking information is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of the Company, as the case may be, to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Such risks, uncertainties and other factors include, but is not limited to, regulatory approval of DeFi Europe; the growth and development of the DeFi and cryptocurrency sector; rules and regulations with respect to DeFi; regulatory approval of ETPs and future adoption of Valour's ETPs. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking information, except in accordance with applicable securities laws.
THE NEO STOCK EXCHANGE DOES NOT ACCEPT RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE
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SOURCE DeFi Technologies, Inc. | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/04/11/defi-technologies-subsidiary-valour-approved-swiss-vqf-membership/ | 2022-04-11T07:42:34Z |
Pomona Mayor Tim Sandoval Receives Financial Support from Nation's Leading Cannabis Brand
POMONA, Calif., Aug. 1, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Tak Sato, President of STIIIZY, presented Pomona Mayor Tim Sandoval with a check for $207,381.92 today at John F. Kennedy Park as part of their ongoing commitment to support the communities where STIIIZY operates.
Coming just over a year after STIIIZY Pomona's opening, the funds will be used towards improvements at John F. Kennedy Park and the schools near the STIIIZY location. Improvements to the lighting, building a concession stand next to the baseball field and additional playground equipment are some of the options being considered with the funds.
Working hand-in-hand with city officials, STIIIZY Pomona has also been engaged in an ongoing effort to help revitalize the area of Pomona where they operate, introducing a secure, vibrant business and providing safe access to cannabis, and providing 90 jobs.
"During the cannabis licensing process, we made certain commitments to the City of Pomona if we had the honor of opening a store in their city. We believe we have honored those commitments so far with the community benefits we continue to provide, the additional security which has made the neighborhood safer, and the relationships we have forged with this neighborhood," said Sato.
Joining Mayor Sandoval at the ceremony was a wide range of community representatives, including Mark Ramos, the President of UFCW Local 1428, and Carlos Goytia, the current Director of the Three Valleys Municipal Water District and the former Parks & Recreation Commissioner. This group represents the potential positive impact of cannabis on everything from the local economy to utilities to parks and recreation.
For more details on STIIIZY Pomona visit our site, and read our blog for more on company news and how Shryne Group supports the communities it serves.
STIIIZY is an authentic, innovative, California-based cannabis brand that is committed to having a positive impact on the communities they serve. Founded in 2017 as a pioneering vape company, STIIIZY has evolved into one of the world's most treasured cannabis brands with distinctive and class-defining retail stores and award-winning cannabis products.
For more information, visit https://www.stiiizy.com/
CONTACT: Christian Averill, christian@qualityproduceusa.com
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SOURCE STIIIZY | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/08/01/stiiizy-pomona-supports-pomonas-parks-amp-schools-with-200k-donation/ | 2022-08-01T21:01:06Z |
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. (AP) — Applebee’s has confirmed that an employee of a Missouri-based franchisee has been fired after sending an email speculating that high gas prices and the end of pandemic stimulus money would force employees to work longer hours for lower pay.
“This is the opinion of an individual, not Applebee’s,” Kevin Carrol, Applebee’s chief operations officer, said in a statement, adding that the franchisee terminated the midlevel worker. The employee didn’t work directly for Applebee’s.
Issues arose after someone shared the email last month with Jake Holcomb, who was the manager of an Applebee’s restaurant in Lawrence, Kansas. He quit soon after he read the email, which said: “As inflation continues to climb and gas prices continue to go up that means more hours employees will need to work to maintain their current level of living.”
Holcomb said he printed a couple dozen copies and left them where servers could find them, the Springfield News-Leader reported.
“Then, I gave everyone in the restaurant their food for free and we just left; we didn’t even close the store,” he said, adding that he also shared the email with a friend who posted a screenshot to Reddit on March 21.
The restaurant remained closed the next day and the email began circulating widely online. | https://cw33.com/business/ap-business/applebees-franchisee-worker-fired-over-leaked-email/ | 2022-04-03T18:41:22Z |
PITTSBURGH, May 27, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- "I thought there could be a better way to brew a pot of coffee," said an inventor, from Phoenix, Ariz., "so I invented the NON TOXIC COFFEE MAKER. My design could enhance taste by avoiding plastic erosion and toxicity."
The invention offers a healthier alternative to traditional plastic coffeemakers. In doing so, it helps to eliminate possible plastic toxins. As a result, it could enhance safety and it could improve the taste of the coffee. The invention features an innovative design that is easy to use so it is ideal for coffee drinkers. Additionally, it is producible in design variations.
The original design was submitted to the Phoenix sales office of InventHelp. It is currently available for licensing or sale to manufacturers or marketers. For more information, write Dept. 20-PHO-1871, 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/2022/05/27/inventhelp-inventor-develops-new-coffee-maker-reduce-toxins-pho-1871/ | 2022-05-27T18:15:50Z |
NEW YORK, Aug. 23, 2022 /PRNewswire/ - FLO, a leading North American electric vehicle (EV) charging company, in partnership with the New York City Department of Transportation (DOT) and Consolidated Edison (Con Edison), announced they have installed and activated their 100th charging station in New York City as part of a pilot program that began in June of last year. The wide network of charging stations, located across all five boroughs, provides a reliable curbside charging source for New York City's EV drivers, helping New York City reach its goal of carbon neutrality by 2050.
EV adoption in New York City has grown rapidly in recent years. The New York City DOT has set ambitious targets for vehicle electrification in order to meet its goal of carbon neutrality by 2050. By the end of the next decade, the city will need over 40,000 publicly accessible Level 2 (L2) chargers to meet the projected demand of the nearly 400,000 EVs then expected to be registered in the city.
"Electric vehicle adoption is an important piece in this administration's efforts to reduce transportation emissions and protect the environment for our future generations," said NYC DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez. "We're proud to see this pilot expand to all five boroughs and thank our partners FLO and Con Edison in helping accelerate EV adoption citywide."
Increasing the network of curbside charging stations makes it easier for New Yorkers to transition to electric vehicles. FLO's curbside charging stations help service the more than 15,000 EVs registered in the city, including the 50 percent of EV owners who park on the street. New Yorkers interested in purchasing an EV can learn more about available financial incentives at New York State's Drive Clean Rebate, which offers drivers a discount of up to $2,000 on the purchase of a qualifying vehicle. Additionally, New Yorkers driving EVs are eligible for a 10 percent discount off E-ZPass rates through the Green Discount Plan.
The project was made possible through funding by the New York State Public Service Commission's Reforming the Energy Vision (REV) initiative. The locations of the charging stations were selected based on input from local elected officials and community stakeholders, geographic diversity, and projected demand for charging. FLO's charging stations cost $2.50 per hour during the day (6 am – 9 pm) and $1.00 per hour overnight. A daytime charge will be equivalent to fueling up at a gas station, while overnight charging may be over 60 percent cheaper.
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 New York City Department of Transportation
NYC DOT is the New York City agency responsible for 6,300 miles of streets and highways, over 12,000 miles of sidewalk, and nearly 800 bridges and tunnels. As a part of this program, DOT is working with private-sector partners to provide convenient and reliable charging for EVs city streets. The agency is committed to the EV future, which is a major piece of the city achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.
About Consolidated Edison
Consolidated Edison, Inc. is one of the nation's largest investor-owned energy-delivery companies, with approximately $12 billion in annual revenues and $63 billion in assets. The company provides a wide range of energy-related products and services to its customers through the following subsidiaries: Consolidated Edison Company of New York, Inc. (CECONY), a regulated utility providing electric service in New York City and New York's Westchester County, gas service in Manhattan, the Bronx, parts of Queens and parts of Westchester, and steam service in Manhattan; Orange and Rockland Utilities, Inc. (O&R), a regulated utility serving customers in a 1,300-square-mile-area in southeastern New York State and northern New Jersey; Con Edison Clean Energy Businesses, Inc., the second-largest owners of solar electric production projects in North America, which, through its subsidiaries develops, owns and operates renewable and sustainable energy infrastructure projects and provides energy-related products and services to wholesale and retail customers; and Con Edison Transmission, Inc., which falls primarily under the oversight of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and through its subsidiaries invests in electric transmission projects supporting its parent company's effort to transition to clean, renewable energy. Con Edison Transmission manages, through joint ventures, both electric and gas assets while seeking to develop electric transmission projects that will bring clean, renewable electricity to customers, focusing on New York, New England, the Mid-Atlantic states and the Midwest.
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SOURCE FLO | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/08/23/flo-installs-100th-charging-station-new-york-city/ | 2022-08-23T16:46:17Z |
MEXICO CITY (AP) — The eyes of Fabiana Marquez brightened after she took the first bite of a savory, crescent-like bread stuffed with ham and cheese. Memories flooded her mind. The Venezuelan immigrant hadn’t eaten a “cachito” in almost five years until she stumbled across a vendor outside her country’s embassy in Mexico.
Marquez left her South American homeland in 2017 amid a social, political and humanitarian crisis that has now driven more than 6 million to migrate across the continent and beyond. She has worked as a nanny, housekeeper, waitress and at other jobs to make ends meet, mostly in outlying parts of Mexico. In the process, she severed deep roots to her country, including the food close to her heart.
“It gave me great pleasure because I hadn’t eaten Venezuelan food in many years,” Marquez said standing next the vendor, who had plastic containers stuffed with a variety of Venezuelan food along a street in a tony Mexico City neighborhood. “Since I arrived in Mexico, I had eaten just a few arepas, but I had completely disconnected from what Venezuelan food is.”
But if she feels cut off from the cuisine of her homeland, many Mexicans have come to discover it. The Venezuelan diaspora has brought shops selling arepas — stuffed corn cakes common to that country and neighboring Colombia. They also are increasingly filling their fellow immigrants’ yearning for cachitos, empanadas and pastelitos while earning much-needed money.
Many of the shops are concentrated in the trendy Roma neighborhood, but they’ve also emerged in middle- and working-class districts, as well as cities such as Cancun and Acapulco, Puebla and Aguascalientes, Metepec and Culiacan.
Nelson Banda used to own a clothing factory about 80 miles west of Caracas, Venezuela’s capital, and sold school uniforms across the country. But as soaring production costs due to inflation ate up any profits, he closed shop a year and a half ago, sold off equipment and joined relatives in Mexico City.
Banda sells about 80 empanadas and 40 cachitos a day outside the Venezuelan Embassy. Clad in a windbreaker with the colors of his country’s flag, he also sells the non-alcoholic malt drink that is a staple at the Venezuelan breakfast table.
Most of Banda’s customers are people like Marquez who must visit the embassy, but he also has regulars.
“They feel the warmth of Venezuela when they see these (foods),” Banda said. “Here, there is a large Venezuelan community, and well, among the community, everyone tries to survive; everyone sets up their own business in their own way and sells what they can.”
International migration agencies estimate Latin American and Caribbean countries have received over 80% of the Venezuelans who left their country in recent years. Colombia and Peru have received the most, but until recently, Mexico also was a popular option because it demanded no visa from Venezuelans and is close to the U.S., which many hoped to reach one day.
Mexico, however, began requiring visas of Venezuelans in January after imposing similar restrictions on Brazilians and Ecuadorians in response to large numbers of migrants headed to the U.S. border.
In December, U.S. officials stopped Venezuelans nearly 25,000 times on the border, more than double September’s count and up from only about 200 times the same period a year earlier.
“Every Venezuelan who leaves … carries in his symbolic luggage his flavors and carries his meals and even carries survival strategies,” said Ocarina Castillo, a Venezuelan anthropologist who has studied the country’s gastronomy. She noted that for many Venezuelan migrants, “the first thing they look for to survive is the possibility of selling arepas, golfeados, empanadas, the possibility even of selling their regional cuisines.”
Recent immigrants face increasing competition for jobs in host countries, in part because of the pandemic. Many also arrive with fewer resources and are in immediate need of food, shelter and legal documentation, according to the U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees.
Like many immigrants before them, Venezuelans are taking their food to across the world — from the streets of Chile to Japan and South Korea.
Arepas have also entered the world of fusion cuisine. A cookbook recently published by the U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees includes a recipe for Dominican-Venezuelan arepas stuffed with black beans, pork rinds and cheese. They were created by a Venezuelan man who resettled in 2016 in the Dominican Republic and became a chef.
“Gastronomy, when it travels, has two roles,” Castillo said. “On the one hand, it’s that wonderful thing that makes you feel good, that rings a bell and makes you cry, makes you feel enormously emotional and reunites you with your childhood. But on the other hand, it is also a bridge to the culture that is welcoming you.”
Raybeli Castellano graduated from the country’s music conservatory and is a professional violinist. But by 2016, as Venezuela came undone, she considered getting training to become a flight attendant or baker or bartender and taking those skills to another country.
After she finished baking lessons, she settled in Mexico City, where she first worked as a restaurant baker, soap opera extra, wedding violinist and eventually as an office assistant. Losing her office job during the pandemic pushed Castellano, 26, to start a business making cachitos, pan de jamon and other baked goods from home. She delivers them to customers who found her on social media or through word of mouth.
She sold 100 cachitos the first week.
Castellano now counts Mexicans, too, as her customers. “So my entrepreneurship was born out of necessity, (but) I also knew how to do it, and I said ‘well, I no longer want to return to an office.'” | https://cw33.com/news/international/ap-international/venezuelan-immigrants-bring-flavors-from-home-to-new-lands/ | 2022-05-03T11:08:51Z |
Girl, 6, killed when police chase ends in crash
MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) - A 6-year-old Minnesota girl died and four other bystanders were injured after the police chase of a wanted murder suspect ended in a car crash. The suspect was also injured.
Terri Foss says police investigators knocked on her door April 7 with the news her son, Devan Dampier, had been shot and killed. The 29-year-old father of two had a third child just about a month away.
“Devan was a loving, caring person,” Foss said. “He was an amazing father, and now his children won’t be able to – he won’t be able to be part of their lives.”
Hakeem Waheed Muhammad, 28, was charged Monday for Dampier’s murder. Documents show at that time, the state asked for a warrant, and the suspect’s location was unknown.
It was Muhammad, Foss says, that led police on a chase through Brooklyn Center on Friday before crashing into a car of five bystanders, killing 6-year-old Blessings McLurain-Gray.
Police say during the chase, the suspect was driving 70 miles per hour in a 30 mph zone.
“He was reckless. He didn’t care about anybody else, any family, just anybody. He was just trying to get away and not have to deal with the consequences of his actions,” Foss said.
A 15-year-old girl remains hospitalized following the crash, but the others injured have been treated and released.
Foss says her heart is now grieving for another family.
“Looking at the wreckage was just kind of disbelief of what had really happened and that somebody else now, their family, was impacted by his recklessness. We hurt for them. It was so senseless,” she said.
Muhammad is listed as booked into Hennepin County Jail but is still receiving medical care, confirms a release from the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office, who is investigating the incident.
Copyright 2022 WCCO via CNN Newsource. All rights reserved. | https://www.mysuncoast.com/2022/07/17/girl-6-killed-when-police-chase-ends-crash/ | 2022-07-17T06:38:24Z |
NEW YORK (AP) — Shoppers’ return to occasion dressing helped to power Macy’s fiscal first-quarter results, and the department store chain raised its annual earnings outlook even as surging inflation is crimping Americans’ budgets.
The performance, announced Thursday, was among the few bright spots in a pile of reports from retailers that showed the impact of rising costs for everything from labor to shipping. Macy’s, along with others, is also adjusting to quickly changing shopping behavior as consumers go back to the office and resume normal lives. They’re going out to restaurants and doing more activities while buying less stuff that focuses on the home.
Such factors flummoxed a number of retailers. Department store chain Kohl’s cut its annual earnings and sales forecast last week. It noted that some shoppers are trading up to premium brands, while others are trading down to lower priced private-label items. And mall-based teen clothing retailer Abercrombie & Fitch posted a first-quarter loss and cut its outlook on Tuesday.
Target reported last week that its profit tumbled 52% from last year. The chain said a lightening quick return by consumers to more normalized spending left it with bloated inventory of items including TV sets that must be marked down to sell. Target’s quarterly financial report comes a day after shares of rival Walmart tumbled about 17% for similar reasons after its earnings report. Both companies missed profit expectations by a wide margin.
Macy’s said its shoppers in all income tiers, including those with household incomes under $75,000, increased their spending, though inflation is putting more financial pressure on the lower-income customer. During a call with The Associated Press on Thursday, Macy’s CEO Jeff Gennette said that the chain is noticing that the consumer is still buying prestige fragrances as gifts for holidays like Mother’s Day. But for clothing purchases for themselves, the low-income shopper is trading down to its off-price business, Backstage.
Macy’s also noted that while credit card revenues exceeded its expectations for the quarter, it continues to expect inflation to outpace wage growth and weigh on consumer health — and that will lead to higher bad debt. That’s a reversal from the last year when consumers were flush with cash.
Gennette said higher-income shoppers continue to spend at a healthy pace, but the company’s upscale Bloomingdale’s chain is monitoring indicators such as interest rates and stock market volatility.
Neil Saunders, managing director of GlobalData Retail, said that Macy’s portfolio of businesses from Bloomingdale’s to Backstage and wide range of prices will be a “significant advantage over the next year or so as consumer behavior polarizes.“ He noted that with good planning, Macy’s can flex to take advantage of differences in the trading across various shopper groups and categories. That advantage, he believes, is why Macy’s outlook has not deteriorated as much as those of other retailers.
Overall, Gennette said Macy’s saw a faster-than-expected shift away from items that were in hot demand during the pandemic like home accessories, activewear, casual clothing and more toward dress up clothes, Macy’s sweet spot. That shift contributed to an increase in foot traffic at Macy’s stores as consumers are more likely to shop in person for occasion-based clothing. But it also meant that Macy’s was caught with too many items that are seeing demand wane and must be marked down.
Macy’s said that it earned $286 million, or 98 cents per share, for the three-month period ended April 30. That compares with $103 million, or 32 cents per share, for the year-ago period. Adjusted earnings per share were $1.08, above estimates for 82 cents per share, according to FactSet.
Sales rose 13.5% to $5.35 billion from $4.71 billion. Analysts were expecting $5.33 billion for the quarter.
Sales at stores opened at least a year rose 12.4% for the quarter. The figure includes business from licensed owned businesses like cosmetics.
Online sales rose 2% as more shoppers returned to stores.
The company said it expects earnings per share for the year in the range of $4.53 to $4.95. That’s up from the previous forecast of $4.13 per share to $4.52 per share. Analysts were expecting $4.33 per share for the year.
Macy’s reiterated its sales outlook for the year of flat to an increase of 1%, compared with last year.
The company’s shares rose $3.20, or 16%, to $22.42 in late morning trading.
______
Follow Anne D’Innocenzio: http://twitter.com/ADInnocenzio | https://cw33.com/business/ap-business/macys-raises-annual-profit-outlook-on-strong-q1-results/ | 2022-05-26T16:29:49Z |
Revolution Beauty Expands Retail Footprint, Launching a Makeup Revolution Exclusive Cosmetics Focused Endcap
NEW YORK, May 18, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Revolution Beauty, a British-based authority in quality cruelty-free accessible skincare and cosmetics, announces its brand Makeup Revolution's expansion into Walgreens, an integrated healthcare pharmacy and retail leader serving millions of customers and patients every day. Growing the brand's accessibility and availability within the U.S., this expansion marks the third major retailer to carry Makeup Revolution's growing and beloved cosmetic assortment within the past two years.
With product offerings that have gone viral overnight on social platforms such as TikTok and Instagram, Revolution Beauty is known as the world's biggest player in the fast beauty space. The brand boasts a cosmetics and skincare portfolio inclusive of innovative, 100% cruelty-free products within their five brands: Makeup Revolution, I Heart Revolution, Revolution PRO, Revolution Skincare, and XX Revolution.
Expanding into over 2,800 Walgreens locations throughout the U.S. and featured on an exclusive endcap designed and curated specifically for Walgreens, Revolution Beauty's product assortment will include over 30 different Makeup Revolution cosmetic products considered to be their best-selling items that incorporate professional quality and highly pigmented formulas, including Reloaded Eyeshadow Palette, Loose Baking Powder and more.
Revolution Beauty founder, Adam Minto, weighs in on the brand's exponential growth for 2022 and recent marketing landscape within all retail locations:
"Expanding the Revolution Beauty portfolio of brands within the U.S. market has been a goal since day one," states Adam Minto. "We are excited to cultivate a new relationship with Walgreens with Makeup Revolution and are looking forward to growing our cosmetic offerings over the next couple of months within stores."
"By welcoming Makeup Revolution into our stores, we're ensuring that customers impacted by rising household costs don't need to trade off the quality of their beauty regimen," said Walgreens group vice president of beauty and personal care, Lauren Brindley. "With an affordable price point, we're excited to introduce a new brand to our customers that want relevant products that fit within their budget."
Makeup Revolution is now available at select Walgreens locations and online nationwide at Walgreens.com. The brands are looking forward to future exclusive product collaborations which will be announced in the summer.
ABOUT REVOLUTION BEAUTY// FOLLOW US @MAKEUPREVOLUTION
Revolution Beauty is a British-based, independent company available in over 60 countries worldwide. Revolution Beauty's brands include Revolution (formerly Makeup Revolution), 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 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.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/05/18/revolution-beauty-expands-into-select-walgreens-stores-online-nationwide/ | 2022-05-18T18:45:33Z |
CHICAGO, Aug. 24, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Mint Werx has announced it has partnered with BlueRidge Data (BRD) of Leesburg, Virginia, to jointly bring custom-configured, Web3 solutions to empower higher education institutions and nonprofits. The companies will offer vital fundraising application services for next-generation alumni constituents, including university foundations, advancement offices, career services, institutional research, admissions and athletics. Future releases will include additional capabilities across campus, including tuition, admissions, ticketing, e-commerce, institutional research and more.
Built off Mint Werx's newly launched DonorFi™ technology, the solution will integrate seamlessly into existing websites and giving pages, providing an easy way for donors to donate cryptocurrency. The fully managed service employs custom processes for end-to-end settlement of donor transactions, simplifying the ability to accept crypto donations and eliminating the need for donors to liquidate their cryptocurrency before donating. According to the IRS*, cryptocurrency donations are generally treated as property and, like real estate or stock donations, the donor may not recognize income, gain or loss from the donation when cryptocurrency is donated to charitable organizations. As a result, donors may realize incentives to give cryptocurrency, while universities and nonprofits can maximize the benefits of receiving higher gross donations.
These plans are supported by recent market data that shows:
- The average nonprofit donor is 65 years old while the average crypto user is 38.**
- 13% of investors hold cryptocurrency in their portfolios while 35% of millennials have invested.***
- Nearly 90% of millennials say charitable giving is an important part of their lives compared to 74% of the total population.***
- 45% of crypto users donate at least $1,000 to charity annually while just 33% of traditional investors donate.***
* IRS Notice 2014-21
**Blackbaud report
***Fidelity Charitable report
Mint Werx is a premium Web3 production studio that provides cutting-edge and scalable blockchain solutions. With DonorFi™, the firm leverages its expertise in Web3, media and marketing to offer fully integrated products and services that not only provide universities and nonprofit organizations a fundraising tool but a resource to build community-driven campaigns that harness the power of the blockchain platform.
BRD, a leader in fundraising data technologies, plans to bring these solutions under its advancement suite of products and services, as young, wealthy portfolios are becoming an increasing part of institutions' strategies.
Together, Mint Werx and BRD will bring their expertise in Web3, nonprofits and higher education to the forefront by combining their best-in-class fundraising products and services with next-generation blockchain technology, creative design, marketing and community engagement capabilities. Utilizing non-fungible tokens (NFTs) and other blockchain services, the companies will offer a full range of products and services to support fundraising campaigns and other community development initiatives for nonprofits and higher education institutions. BRD and Mint Werx have several additional blockchain solutions currently in development and will provide additional announcements at a later date.
Steve Hafner, CEO and founder of BRD, said, "We are excited to be one of the pioneers in this space under our CryptoGiving portfolio of solutions. The Mint Werx team is a perfect partner for us as they are an industry powerhouse on blockchain solutions, whether it's technical, regulatory, creative, operational or production, and we have vast data and industry expertise. There has been more discussion about crypto philanthropy over the last twelve months than there has been in the past five years. We saw a $5M cryptocurrency gift to the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School (the largest ever in Higher Ed), stadiums being named, sports teams being sponsored, television ads and even universities being gifted NFTs, and the list goes on."
Ryan Sands, Senior Vice President for Mint Werx, said, "With BRD's deep set of relationships, extensive years of experience in the industry and data solutions, we believe they are the go-to partner for the nonprofit and higher ed segments. By simplifying complex technologies, our solution will connect universities and nonprofit organizations to new audiences and drive deeper connections that go beyond a transaction and drive deeper affinity and engagement. DonorFi™ is a perfect complement to BRD's product portfolio, and we are excited about the possibilities to provide additional custom solutions to the space."
BlueRidge Data, LLC helps higher education gain insight into its constituents by delivering hard-to-find information on alumni for foundations, advancement, alumni associations, athletics, career services and institutional research to "Identify, Inspire and Engage."
A division of Fusion92, a leading Chicago-based independent marketing innovation company, Mint Werx delivers cutting-edge, scalable and one-of-a-kind dynamic NFTs and platforms, producing, minting and activating authentic digital expressions that last a lifetime.
Contact information
Jeff MacIntyre
BlueRidge Data, LLC
(571) 498-7070
info@blueridgedata.com
Brian Werger
Mint Werx
(888) 550-4864
b.werger@fusion92.com
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SOURCE Mint Werx | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/08/25/mint-werx-blueridge-data-announce-partnership-bring-next-generation-crypto-giving-solutions-serve-higher-education-nonprofit-institutions/ | 2022-08-25T02:15:08Z |
Did you lose money on investments in IonQ? If so, please visit IonQ, Inc. Shareholder Class Action Lawsuit or contact Peter Allocco at (212) 951-2030 or pallocco@bernlieb.com to discuss your rights.
NEW YORK, July 8, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Bernstein Liebhard LLP, a nationally acclaimed investor rights law firm, reminds investors of the deadline to file a lead plaintiff motion in a securities class action lawsuit that has been filed on behalf of investors who purchased or acquired the securities of IonQ, Inc. ("IonQ" or the "Company") (NYSE: IONQ) between March 30, 2021 and May 2, 2022, inclusive (the "Class Period"). The lawsuit was filed in the United States District Court for the District of Maryland and alleges violations of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
IonQ claims to "develop quantum computers designed to solve the world's most complex problems." On or about September 30, 2021, IonQ became a public entity via a business combination with dMY Technology Group, Inc. III ("DTG"), a special purpose acquisition company.
Plaintiff alleges that Defendants made false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose: (1) that IonQ had not yet developed a 32-qubit quantum computer; (2) that the Company's 11-qubit quantum computer suffered from significant error rates, rendering it useless; (3) that IonQ's quantum computer is not sufficiently reliable, so it is not accessible despite being available through major cloud providers; and (4) that a significant portion of IonQ's revenue was derived from improper roundtripping transactions with related parties.
On May 3, 2022, Scorpion Capital released a research report alleging, among other things, that IonQ is a "scam built on phony statements about nearly all key aspects of the technology and business." It further claimed that the Company' reported "[f]ictitious 'revenue' via sham transactions and related-party round-tripping."
On this news, the Company's stock fell 9% to close at $7.15 per share on May 3, 2022.
If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than August 1, 2022. A lead plaintiff is a representative party acting on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation. Your ability to share in any recovery doesn't require that you serve as lead plaintiff. If you choose to take no action, you may remain an absent class member.
If you purchased or acquired IONQ securities, and/or would like to discuss your legal rights and options please visit IonQ, Inc. Shareholder Class Action Lawsuit or contact Peter Allocco at (212) 951-2030 or pallocco@bernlieb.com.
Since 1993, Bernstein Liebhard LLP has recovered over $3.5 billion for its clients. In addition to representing individual investors, the Firm has been retained by some of the largest public and private pension funds in the country to monitor their assets and pursue litigation on their behalf. As a result of its success litigating hundreds of lawsuits and class actions, the Firm has been named to The National Law Journal's "Plaintiffs' Hot List" thirteen times and listed in The Legal 500 for ten consecutive years.
ATTORNEY ADVERTISING. © 2022 Bernstein Liebhard LLP. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Bernstein Liebhard LLP, 10 East 40th Street, New York, New York 10016, (212) 779-1414. Prior results do not guarantee or predict a similar outcome with respect to any future matter.
Contact Information:
Peter Allocco
Bernstein Liebhard LLP
https://www.bernlieb.com
(212) 951-2030
pallocco@bernlieb.com
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SOURCE Bernstein Liebhard LLP | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/07/09/ionq-inc-nyse-ionq-shareholder-class-action-alert-bernstein-liebhard-llp-reminds-investors-with-losses-excess-100000-deadline-file-lead-plaintiff-motion-securities-class-action-lawsuit-against-ionq-inc-nyse-ionq/ | 2022-07-09T03:02:18Z |
One person is dead and another person is missing after a boat carrying more than a dozen people overturned in Lake Pueblo State Park in Colorado, park officials said.
The boat overturned around 7:30 p.m. Sunday with 13 people onboard, according to a social media post from Colorado Parks and Wildlife's Southeast Region. Three adults and eight juveniles were rescued from the water, which had a temperature of 60 degrees.
One body has been recovered by park rangers and one person remains missing, the post said. The Colorado Parks and Wildlife Marine Evidence recovery team is searching water with depths up to 80 feet for the missing adult, officials said.
In 1979, the average annual total cost of attending college—including tuition, fees, room, and board—for full-time undergraduates was $9,307 (in constant 2019-2020 dollars). By 2019, this rate had nearly tripled, to more than $25,000. Currently, the average amount of debt a college graduate … Click for more.
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NEW YORK and TORONTO, May 6, 2022 /PRNewswire/ - iAnthus Capital Holdings, Inc. ("iAnthus" or the "Company") (CSE: IAN) (OTCPK: ITHUF), which owns, operates and partners with regulated cannabis operations across the United States, announces the appointment of a replacement Interim Chief Executive Officer ("CEO") and member of the Company's Board of Directors (the "Board"), provides details of former Interim CEO, President and Director, Randy Maslow's separation agreement and provides an update with respect to its previously announced recapitalization transaction (the "Recapitalization Transaction").
Appointment of Robert R. Galvin as Interim CEO and Director
The Board has appointed Robert Galvin as Interim CEO and Director of the Company, effective immediately. Mr. Galvin currently serves as the Company's Interim Chief Operating Officer and has held a number of executive positions with the Company and previously served as a member of the Board following the completion of the Company's transaction in February 2019 with MPX Bioceutical Corporation, where Mr. Galvin also served as a board member. Mr. Galvin has significant relevant experience having held operational, financial, and administrative executive leadership roles at both public and private companies prior to joining iAnthus.
"On behalf of the Company, we would like to welcome Bob Galvin to his expanded role and look forward to working closely with Bob as Interim CEO and Director of the Company," said independent directors Michael Muldowney and Diane Ellis.
Randy Maslow's Separation Agreement
On May 4, 2022, the Company announced that its co-founder, Randy Maslow, will resign from his executive positions with the Company, including all positions with the Company's subsidiaries and affiliates and from the Board and all committees of the Board, effective as of today, May 6, 2022 (the "Resignation Date"). In connection with Mr. Maslow's resignation, Mr. Maslow and the Company executed a separation agreement (the "Separation Agreement") pursuant to which Mr. Maslow will receive certain compensation and benefits valued to substantially equal the value of entitlements he would have received under Section 4(g) of his Employment Agreement1. Mr. Maslow will receive a lump sum cash payment on the Resignation Date and cash installments over the next eight-month period, which may be accelerated upon the occurrence of certain events. Further, Mr. Maslow agreed to relinquish all entitlements to his restricted stock units under the contingent long-term incentive plan that was announced on January 7, 2022. All terms of Mr. Maslow's separation were considered and approved by the Board and the Board determined that such terms comply with applicable laws, including laws applicable to related party transactions.2 As previously disclosed, Mr. Maslow will continue to serve the Company in a consulting role for a period of six months following the Resignation Date.
Update to the Recapitalization Transaction – Maryland and Florida Approved
On April 1, 2022, the Maryland Medical Cannabis Commission approved the proposed change of ownership and control of the Company's wholly-owned subsidiary, S8 Management, LLC ("S8"), contemplated by the Recapitalization Transaction. S8 currently controls four licensed entities in Maryland through management services agreements.
On November 4, 2021, the Company announced that the Florida Department of Health, Office of Medical Marijuana Use (the "OMMU"), by notice dated October 29, 2021, approved the variance request (the "Variance Request") filed by the Company's subsidiary, McCrory's Sunny Hill Nursery, LLC ("McCrory's"), to approve the prospective change of beneficial ownership of McCrory's contemplated by the Recapitalization Transaction. Subsequently, on December 9, 2021, iAnthus announced that, on November 19, 2021, Michael Weisser, Benjamin Pollara and Florida for Care, Inc., a not-for-profit corporation representing members including qualified Florida medical marijuana patients, filed a Petition for Formal Administrative Hearing (as amended, the "Petition") with the OMMU, challenging the OMMU's approval of the Variance Request and requesting a formal administrative hearing before an administrative law judge ("ALJ") at the Florida Division of Administrative Hearings. The OMMU informed the Company that, as a result of the filing of the Petition challenging the agency's decision within the permissible challenge period, the OMMU's prior approval is not an enforceable final agency order until there is a final resolution of the Petition and a final agency order is rendered. On May 4, 2022, the OMMU issued a final agency order, accepting the recommendation of the ALJ and dismissing the Petition.
The Company continues to seek the remaining regulatory approvals in Massachusetts, New Jersey, and New York.
About iAnthus
iAnthus owns and operates licensed cannabis cultivation, processing and dispensary facilities throughout the United States. For more information, visit www.iAnthus.com.
Forward-Looking Statements
Statements in this news release contain forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are made on the basis of the current beliefs, expectations and assumptions of management, are not guarantees of performance and are subject to significant risks and uncertainty. These forward-looking statements should, therefore, be considered in light of various important factors, including those set forth in Company's reports that it files from time to time with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") and the Canadian securities regulators, which you should review including, but not limited to, the Company's most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC. When used in this news release, words such as "will", "could", "plan", "estimate", "expect", "intend", "may", "potential" "believe", "should" and similar expressions, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements may include, without limitation, statements relating to the Company's financial performance, business development and results of operations, changes to the composition of the Company's Board and its management, and the timing and outcome of the closing of the Recapitalization Transaction, the Q1 Filing and the public filing of the Separation Agreement.
These forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as predictions of future events, and the Company cannot assure you that the events or circumstances discussed or reflected in these statements will be achieved or will occur. If such forward-looking statements prove to be inaccurate, the inaccuracy may be material. You should not regard these statements as a representation or warranty by the Company or any other person that it will achieve its objectives and plans in any specified timeframe, or at all. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this news release. The Company disclaims any obligation to publicly update or release any revisions to these forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, after the date of this news release or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events, except as required by law.
Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor The Securities Exchange Commission have reviewed, approved or disapproved the content of this news release.
_______________________________
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SOURCE iAnthus Capital Holdings, Inc. | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/05/06/ianthus-announces-appointment-replacement-interim-chief-executive-officer-director-provides-update-recapitalization-transaction/ | 2022-05-06T14:33:59Z |
NEW YORK, June 1, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Blue Owl Capital Inc. (the "Company" or "Blue Owl Capital") (NYSE:OWL) announced today that NBSH Blue Investments II, LLC (the "Selling Stockholder"), intends to offer in an underwritten public offering 10,698,180 shares of the Company's Class A common stock (the "Offering"). The underwriters will have a 30-day option to purchase up to an additional 1,604,727 shares from the Selling Stockholder. The Offering consists entirely of secondary shares to be sold by the Selling Stockholder. The Company will not receive any of the proceeds from the shares sold in the Offering.
BofA Securities and Citigroup are acting as joint bookrunning managers for the Offering.
A registration statement (including a prospectus) relating to the Class A common stock was initially filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") on June 17, 2021, which was declared effective on August 2, 2021 and amended by Post-Effective Amendment No. 1 filed on April 21, 2022, which was declared effective on May 2, 2022 (together with all supplements, the "Prospectus"). A copy of the preliminary prospectus supplement relating to the Offering was filed with the SEC on June 1, 2022. The Offering will be made only by means of a prospectus supplement and the accompanying Prospectus. Before you invest, you should read the registration statement, prospectus and prospectus supplement the Company has made available with the SEC for information about the Company and the Offering. You may obtain these documents free of charge by visiting EDGAR on the SEC website at www.sec.gov. Alternatively, copies of the Prospectus and preliminary prospectus supplement may be obtained from the office of BofA Securities, Attention: Prospectus Department, NC1-004-03-43, 200 North College Street, 3rd floor, Charlotte, NC 28255-0001 or via e-mail at dg.prospectus_requests@bofa.com, or the office of Citigroup Global Markets Inc., Attention: Prospectus Department, c/o Broadridge Financial Solutions, 1155 Long Island Avenue, Edgewood, NY 11717, via telephone: (800) 831-9146.
This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy these Class A common shares, nor shall there be any sale of these Class A common shares in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction.
About Blue Owl Capital
Blue Owl is a global alternative asset manager with $102.0 billion of assets under management as of March 31, 2022. Anchored by a strong permanent capital base, the firm deploys private capital across Direct Lending, GP Capital Solutions and Real Estate strategies on behalf of Institutional and Private Wealth clients. Blue Owl's flexible, consultative approach helps position the firm as a partner of choice for businesses seeking capital solutions to support their sustained growth. The firm's management team is comprised of seasoned investment professionals with more than 25 years of experience building alternative investment businesses. Blue Owl employs over 400 people across 10 offices globally.
Forward-Looking Statements
Statements included herein may constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, which relate to future events or the Company's future performance or financial condition. When used in this press release, the words "estimates," "projected," "expects," "anticipates," "forecasts," "plans," "intends," "believes," "seeks," "may," "will," "would," "should," "future," "propose," "target," "goal," "objective," "outlook" and variations of these words or similar expressions (or the negative versions of such words or expressions) are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These statements are not guarantees of future performance, condition or results and involve a number of risks, assumptions and uncertainties. Actual results may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements as a result of a number of factors, including those described from time to time in the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Any such forward-looking statements are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions available under applicable securities laws and speak only as of the date of this press release. Blue Owl Capital undertakes no duty to update any forward-looking statements made herein.
Investor Contact
Ann Dai
Head of Investor Relations
owlir@blueowl.com
Media Contact
Prosek Partners
David Wells / Nick Theccanat
Pro-blueowl@prosek.com
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SOURCE Blue Owl Capital Inc. | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/06/01/blue-owl-capital-announces-launch-secondary-offering-class-common-shares/ | 2022-06-01T21:41:04Z |
CHICAGO, May 5, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- OriginPoint, a digitally driven mortgage origination joint venture between Compass, Inc. (NYSE: COMP) and Guaranteed Rate, Inc. ("Guaranteed Rate") is delighted to welcome John Stewart as its new EVP of National Sales.
In this role, Stewart will oversee all of OriginPoint's sales and recruiting operations. With more than 30 years of mortgage and finance industry experience, he will lead the company's efforts to grow market share by recruiting the "best of the best" industry talent and developing leaders in both sales and operations.
"We are thrilled to have John on board to lead our sales efforts," said James Elliott, President and Managing Officer of OriginPoint. "Having known him for most of my career, John's experience and demonstrated success in the joint venture space is virtually unmatched. Now, more than ever, OriginPoint is positioned to become a dominant player in the industry, and John will be a big part of our success."
Based out of Beverly Hills, Calif., Stewart began his career as a loan originator and worked his way up the sales management ranks, holding leadership positions with some of the largest lenders in the country. Prior to joining OriginPoint, he served as a Division Manager at Guaranteed Rate. Stewart has tremendous experience in mortgage joint ventures, including as president and co-founder of Metrocities Mortgage, a company that was a pioneer and leader in the joint venture space. More recently, Stewart was a co-founder and board member of a large national mortgage joint venture.
"When the opportunity to work at OriginPoint presented itself, I couldn't pass up the chance to join the team," said Stewart. "OriginPoint has a great value proposition for consumers and loan officers, which allows us to better serve homebuyers and deliver a hassle-free mortgage process."
OriginPoint was founded in 2021 as mortgage origination joint venture between Guaranteed Rate, the #1 non-bank jumbo lender in the country, and Compass, the #1 independent real estate brokerage in the country. OriginPoint is bringing together the power of Compass' end-to-end technology platform with Guaranteed Rate's superior digital mortgage to quickly drive growth.
For more information, visit originpoint.com.
OriginPoint, a joint venture between Guaranteed Rate Inc., and Compass Inc. (NYSE: COMP), is an independent retail mortgage company that provides personalized lending services and access to the most competitive low rates through an elite team of the industry's top mortgage professionals. OriginPoint is a digitally driven enterprise designed to accelerate growth by continuing to modernize the real estate transaction process through increased speed and efficiency for loan originators, agents and customers. By connecting the top loan officers and best real estate agents using the most innovative technology platforms, this national mortgage company is focused on the customer's ultimate success and satisfaction. To learn more, visit www.originpoint.com.
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SOURCE OriginPoint | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/05/05/originpoint-welcomes-john-stewart-evp-sales/ | 2022-05-05T21:48:27Z |
Chiefs hoping to keep September success rolling in season-opener
KANSAS CITY, Mo. (KCTV) - A staple of Andy Reid-led Kansas City Chiefs teams has been their ability to dominate the opening month of the season.
During the last four seasons, the Chiefs are 15-2 in games during the month of September.
In 2021, that trend took a hit with the Chiefs going 1-2 in the opening month. That early-season struggle during which the Chiefs lost their final two games of September in 2021 ended an 11-game winning streak during the month to begin quarterback Patrick Mahomes’ career.
READ MORE: Chiefs activate Blue Springs’ Elijah Lee to active roster
Sunday, Kansas City travels to Arizona to take on another team that thrives early in the season. Although the Cardinals haven’t sustained success throughout seasons at the same level as the Chiefs, Kliff Kingsbury’s squad is 5-1 in the month of September during the past two seasons.
After opening as 1.5-point favorites when oddsmakers set the opening line, Kansas City is now favored by 6.5 points. Over the 15-2 span on the field in September, the Chiefs are 12-5 against the spread.
The season gets underway Sunday on KCTV5. Kickoff is at 3:25 p.m.
Copyright 2022 KCTV. All rights reserved. | https://www.wibw.com/2022/09/11/chiefs-hoping-keep-september-success-rolling-season-opener/ | 2022-09-11T16:12:56Z |
LIVONIA, Mich., Sept. 6, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- XanEdu, Inc., a provider of educational content and curriculum services for K-12 and higher education, announces the formation of Scholarus Learning, a premier portfolio of companies that provide products and services across the education value chain. It simultaneously announced the acquisition of PLC Associates, Inc., a provider of training, measurement and advisory materials for K-12 leaders alongside its financial partner, Frontenac, a Chicago-based private equity firm.
XanEdu has been improving learning outcomes since 1999 by delivering curriculum customization and publishing solutions to educators across the K-12 and higher education communities. The 2021 acquisition of Education Elements, a national K-12 consulting firm that takes a personalized approach to address districts' complex questions, and Tripod Education, the nation's leading provider of K-12 classroom level survey assessments, brought a comprehensive suite of services including instructional design, organizational strategy, leadership strategy and survey solutions to the group. Today's acquisition of PLC Associates further enhances the breadth of the portfolio.
PLC Associates is a provider of training and advisory materials for teachers and administrators with a focus on research-based performance benchmarks. "The addition of PLC Associates expands the range and depth of products that we can offer school district leaders, particularly around data collection and professional services. We are thrilled to welcome them to our team," said Chad Bonney, CEO of Scholarus Learning.
In recognition of the growing range of its educational services, the businesses will all operate under the Scholarus Learning umbrella. "The formation of Scholarus Learning is an important step forward in our growth strategy within the education sector as we expand our portfolio of complementary companies that provide industry-leading breadth of products and services," said Michael Langdon, Managing Director, Frontenac.
ABOUT SCHOLARUS LEARNING
Scholarus Learning is a portfolio of companies serving the K-12 and higher education markets. Scholarus offers educators an industry-leading range of products and services in key areas of instructional design and implementation, organizational strategy, leadership strategy, and data collection, as well as print and digital curriculum customization and courseware solutions. The Scholarus Learning portfolio includes XanEdu Publishing, Education Elements, Tripod and PLC Associates. Together, Scholarus companies serve more than 1,800 schools in over 350 districts along with thousands of colleges and universities. We touch the lives of more than 2 million students each year through our professional services, data analytics, and custom curriculum publishing and distribution. For more information, please visit http://scholarus.com to learn more.
ABOUT XANEDU
XanEdu has been increasing student engagement and improving learning outcomes since 1999. Our experts partner with educators on each unique project to build and deliver engaging print and digital custom solutions and courseware content that addresses curriculum gaps and key initiatives for K-12 and Higher Education leaders while maintaining our commitment to affordability and accessibility for all learners. XanEdu is a privately held company headquartered in Livonia, MI. Please visit http://xanedu.com to learn more.
ABOUT PLC ASSOCIATES
PLC Associates, Inc. supports schools in achieving outstanding outcomes and building capacity in a systems approach that leads to sustained results. Their innovative and comprehensive offerings provide true "wrap-around support", that is - they stay with each client every step of the way. The core of what makes PLC Associates successful are its Signature Programs and proprietary models, tailored to the needs of each school/district. Please visit http://plcassociates.com to learn more.
ABOUT EDUCATION ELEMENTS
Education Elements works with districts to build and support dynamic school systems that meet the needs of every learner, today and tomorrow. Education Elements takes the time to understand the unique challenges school leaders face, and then customize the Education Elements approach for each district. Educations Elements has worked with hundreds of districts across the country. They bring deep expertise, design thinking, expert facilitation, and the spirit of collaboration, along with their extensive toolkit of resources and technology, to deliver sustainable results. Please visit https://www.edelements.com to learn more.
ABOUT TRIPOD EDUCATION
Tripod is the nation's leading provider of classroom-level student survey assessments for K-12 education. Tripod's research and analytics deliver valuable insights about teaching practices, student engagement, and school climate. Tripod uses a database of millions of survey responses to calibrate results against broadly anchored norms, and the Tripod reporting platform presents engaging feedback for educators to promote school improvement and professional learning. Please visit https://tripoded.com/ to learn more.
ABOUT FRONTENAC
Frontenac is a Chicago-based private equity firm. The firm focuses on investing in lower middle market buyout transactions in the consumer, industrial, and services industries. Frontenac works in partnership with established operating leaders, through an executive-centric approach called CEO1ST, which seeks to identify, acquire, and build market-leading companies through transformational acquisitions and operational excellence. Over the last 50 years, Frontenac has built a leading franchise working with over 275 owners of mid-sized businesses as they address complex transition issues of liquidity, management enhancement, and growth planning. For more information, please visit https://www.frontenac.com/.
Contact:
Joyce Mueller
Vice President of Marketing
jmueller@xanedu.com
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SOURCE XanEdu Publishing, Inc. | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/09/06/xanedu-announces-formation-scholarus-learning-acquisition-plc-associates/ | 2022-09-06T19:10:37Z |
DENVER (KDVR) — The Denver Zoo says it may have “ruffled some feathers” after putting a Pride post on Facebook that might have left some wondering why a same-sex flamingo pair would break up.
The zoo said it has 75 flamingos in its flock and they have the ability to form relationships with multiple birds during their lifetime.
Original post on Facebook
Here’s a look at the original post:
“Happy Pride! We’re celebrating some of the diverse animal kingdom families who call the Zoo home, and today we’re featuring our fabulous flockstars, our Chilean and American flamingos! Flamingos are extremely social by nature and flocks consist of collections of partnerships. This includes not only male-female breeding pairs, but also strong bonds between same-sex pairs. While our famed, same-sex couple Chilean flamingo Lance Bass and American flamingo Freddie Mercury are no longer a pair, they were paired up for several years and acted as surrogate parents if a breeding pair was unable to raise their chick. Our flock is 75 birds strong, which allows our birds to flamingle with a variety of individuals and personalities, giving them many options on who to form associations with.”
Denver Zoo
Follow-up post on Facebook
The Denver Zoo shared a follow-up post to shed some light on why they believe Freddie and Lance split up.
“It seems like our flamingo post yesterday may have ruffled some feathers and we want to sincerely apologize…for leaving everyone in the dark so long as to why our same-sex flamingo pair Freddie Mercury and Lance Bass split up!” Denver Zoo said on Facebook.
The zoo said flamingos don’t always mate for life, and some choose to pair up with other birds.
“Freddie repaired with Iommi, one of our fourteen-year-old female American flamingos. Iommi has been around Freddie for nearly her entire life without any indication of a bond before, so keepers aren’t exactly sure why these two decided to pair up. As for Lance, keepers haven’t noticed him in a new concrete bond with anyone else at the moment,” the zoo shared.
“Our flock allows our birds to choose who they decide to form associations with and we’re happy to celebrate their pairings this month and every month. Happy Pride!” the zoo posted.
Reaction to the Facebook post
The original post received nearly 1,000 comments, mostly about why and how a flamingo pair would break up.
“They broke up?!? Why? How does that even work?!? I have so many questions!” Brittany posted.
“We all need answers….why aren’t they together anymore??? What are they doing now? Are they alright? How you gonna just nonchalantly say they are no longer a pair without some explanation for us all? Sooooo curious.” Mandy posted.
“I love that they are Lance and Freddie. They are beautiful. Sad they are no longer together. Why? I need more information please.” Diana said.
Visiting the zoo
If you’re planning a trip to the zoo to see the flamingos, it is open daily at 10 a.m. for the general public and 8:30 a.m. for members. The zoo said closing hours may vary by day, but generally one hour and 30 minutes after the last ticket entry time. | https://cw33.com/news/nexstar-media-wire/denver-zoo-ruffles-feathers-with-gay-flamingo-pride-post/ | 2022-06-29T02:02:28Z |
TAIPEI, Aug. 4, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- ProLogium Technology (ProLogium), a global leader in innovative solid-state battery technology, announced today that it has joined NAATBatt International (NAATBatt), the premiere trade association of developers, manufacturers, suppliers and users of battery technology in North America, as a platinum member, and will also join upcoming meetings of its Board of Directors.
"We are pleased to be a member of NAATBatt, to learn and participate in the development of innovative solutions for the advancement of battery technologies," said Vincent Yang, CEO and Founder of ProLogium. "The United States plays a crucial role in the global automotive industry value chain. Automakers are accelerating their plans to extend their EV product range. With manufacturing bases in the region, we will be able to better meet the market's needs and benefit from local policy support. The proximity allows for local production and local supplies, manufacturing closer to customers to reduce carbon footprint – a win-win solution for the benefit of both our customers and ProLogium."
Jim Greenberger, Executive Director of NAATBatt International, said: "I'm delighted that ProLogium has joined NAATBatt and is planning to become an important part of the North American advanced battery supply chain. Scaling the manufacture of electrochemical energy storage technology is a challenge facing countries worldwide. NAATBatt will do its best to provide the resources required by ProLogium and fully support ProLogium's efforts to promote innovative battery technology in North America and help it enter the commercial field more quickly."
ProLogium is actively seeking to establish its first overseas battery plant. The company is in the process of selecting the location for its gigafactory in anticipation of the surging global demand for electric vehicles over the next decade. The estimated total investment in three phases is over USD 8 billion, and a feasibility study for potential sites has been initiated.
"With the recommendation and assistance from the US Department of Commerce, we were invited to the 2022 SelectUSA Investment Summit. We met with US officials and governors during the SelectUSA Summit. The US government expressed its full support for ProLogium to set up plants locally, an indication of the increasing strategic importance of the next-generation battery," Vincent Yang commented.
ProLogium has a three-phase construction plan for its first-ever overseas gigafactory. The total capacity is expected to reach 120 GWh when the plant is complete. The firm's final decision on plant location is set to be made by the first half of 2023 at the soonest. A due diligence process will be performed before the construction project kicks off. ProLogium also estimates that by 2031, the project will create over 6,500 jobs, and the company is poised to begin its global talent recruitment efforts in the areas of engineering, product research and development, business management, and more.
ProLogium's manufacturing competence has been well established in the past nine years. Its first production line for consumer applications began operating back in 2013, and its roll-to-roll EV battery pilot line began production in October 2017. The battery maker owns proprietary technologies covering over 500 (applied or awarded) patents worldwide and has established more than 4,000 quality control items in its production processes, achieving 99.9% yield for its single-layer cell manufacturing and 94% yield for multi-layer cells. The company has already shipped more than one million cells for consumer electronic applications (from 15mAh to 1Ah) with a very high level of customer satisfaction. It has already begun the long testing and certification process with key global car OEMs by delivering nearly 8,000 EV battery cells (50-60Ah). These results laid a solid foundation for its global mass production gigafactory.
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SOURCE ProLogium Technology | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/08/04/next-generation-solid-state-battery-maker-prologium-joins-naatbatt-premiere-trade-association-advanced-battery-technology/ | 2022-08-04T12:42:29Z |
VALCOURT, QC, Aug. 24, 2022 /PRNewswire/ - BRP Inc. (TSX: DOO) (NASDAQ: DOOO) reports that, as part of its ongoing investigation into the cyberattack, it found out today that additional employee information has been compromised, specifically certain credentials of employees using BRP computers for personal use.
As a precaution, and in order to further protect the information of its employees, BRP has asked them to change their personal passwords. Furthermore, as a precautionary measure, the Company will be offering credit monitoring services to all its employees.
BRP's investigation is still ongoing as the situation continues to evolve. At this time, the Company has no evidence that its clients' personal information has been affected.
BRP's top priority is to mitigate the consequences of the cyberattack. The Company continues to put in place all the necessary measures to protect the integrity of systems and data, and its employees and stakeholders' information.
Caution concerning forward-looking statements
Certain information included in this release, including, but not limited to, the statement that the Company will be offering credit monitoring services to all its employees and other statements that are not historical facts, are "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Canadian and United States securities laws. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by the use of terminology such as "may", "will", "would", "should", "could", "expects", "forecasts", "plans", "intends", "trends", "indications", "anticipates", "believes", "estimates", "outlook", "predicts", "projects", "likely" or "potential" or the negative or other variations of these words or other comparable words or phrases. Forward looking statements, by their very nature, involve inherent risks and uncertainties and are based on several assumptions, both general and specific. BRP cautions that its assumptions may not materialize and that current economic conditions render such assumptions, although reasonable at the time they were made, subject to greater uncertainty. Such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results or performance of BRP to be materially different from the outlook or any future results or performance implied by such statements. Further details and descriptions of these and other factors are disclosed in BRP's annual information form dated March 24, 2022.
About BRP
We are a global leader in the world of powersports products, propulsion systems and boats built on 80 years of ingenuity and intensive consumer focus. Our portfolio of industry-leading and distinctive products includes Ski-Doo and Lynx snowmobiles, Sea-Doo watercraft and pontoons, Can-Am on and off-road vehicles, Alumacraft and Quintrex boats, Manitou pontoons and Rotax marine propulsion systems as well as Rotax engines for karts and recreational aircraft. We complete our lines of products with a dedicated parts, accessories and apparel portfolio to fully enhance the riding experience. With annual sales of CA$7.6 billion from over 120 countries, our global workforce includes close to 20,000 driven, resourceful people.
Ski-Doo, Lynx, Sea-Doo, Can-Am, Rotax, Alumacraft, Manitou, Quintrex, and the BRP logo are trademarks of Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. or its affiliates. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
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SOURCE BRP Inc. | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/08/24/brp-provides-update-data-leak/ | 2022-08-25T00:52:44Z |
ST. PAUL, Minn., June 29, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- St. Paul, Minnesota-based Visualz, a full-service supplier of educational resources and customized design projects, and Madison, Wisconsin-based ProTeam Foodservice Advisors, which offers comprehensive consulting services to educational foodservice leaders, have teamed up to integrate their design and consulting services for school cafeterias that need a visual transformation.
With the power of customized design for cafeteria makeovers from Visualz and the consulting expertise of Fresh Eye Reviews from ProTeam Foodservice Advisors, cafeterias will get new personalities with individualized graphics packages to increase breakfast and lunch participation, improve student dining satisfaction and celebrate good nutrition.
"The partnership is expected to expand the awareness of what value Visualz can bring to the table and is a natural progression for the two companies who share common audiences," said Visualz's Cindy Scheurer.
"I can't wait to see the fusion of each of our expertise to bring the best resources to schools for their cafeteria upgrades," said ProTeam's Paul Mackesey.
Visualz brings your organization's most important messages to life through engaging visuals. We harness the power of graphics and positive messaging to create one-of-a kind food, nutrition and life skills educational resources that are used by schools, SNAP-Ed, EFNEP, and Public Health customers, along with Farmers Markets, WIC offices, and food banks. Learn more at www.getvisualz.com.
ProTeam is here to help you achieve your vision of excellence. Whether you need a quick phone consultation to solve a challenge on your plate today, or an in-depth project to take your program to the next level, we're here for you. With seasoned, experienced professionals who've been in your shoes, every solution we offer meets your exacting standards of practical, workable and affordable. Learn more at www.proteamadvisors.com.
MEDIA CONTACT
Tyler Coleman
tyler@linnihanfoy.com
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SOURCE Visualz, a Division of Vomela | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/06/29/visualz-proteam-foodservice-advisors-announce-partnership-transform-school-cafeterias-with-fresh-makeovers/ | 2022-06-29T15:29:29Z |
Matt Stang, Co-founder and CEO of Delic, and Kevin Nicholson, COO of Delic, have been elevated to Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, respectively.
VANCOUVER, BC, Aug. 16, 2022 /PRNewswire/ - Delic Holdings Corp ("Delic" or the "Company") (CSE: DELC) (OTCQB: DELCF) (FRA: 6X0), a leader in new medicines and treatments for a modern world, today shared details regarding two executive appointments. Matt Stang, co-founder and CEO of Delic, has been appointed to the role of Executive Chairman. Kevin Nicholson, COO of Delic, will transition into the role of Chief Executive Officer in addition to joining the company's Board of Directors. He also serves as the CEO of Ketamine Wellness Centers (KWC) and will continue in this role.
Stang owned and operated High Times, a leading source of cannabis news, for 17 years prior to co-founding Delic. Under Stang's leadership, Delic acquired KWC in November 2021 to become the nation's largest ketamine therapy provider. He also led the Company to more than USD$1.5MM in total revenue last year and increased net assets 500% from USD$2.1MM in 2020 to USD$10MM in its first full year of operation. Delic remains committed to providing value-based, effective and accessible treatments that meet the diverse needs of patients across the country.
"As the conversation around psychedelics evolves and gains momentum, Delic will continue to remain at the forefront. It is a privilege to continue as the company's Executive Chairman and to work closely with the prestigious Board of Directors under Kevin's leadership," said Stang. "I am highly confident that together we will continue to guide the company in its next phase of growth and further modernize healthcare."
As CEO of KWC, Nicholson is leading the largest, most respected ketamine provider in the U.S. His ability to grow the company has generated an annual revenue of more than USD$4MM and has seen KWC approach 100,000 treatments to date for clinically eligible patients. Nicholson's guidance and personal commitment has ensured that KWC remains aligned with its mission-driven culture by offering best-in-class patient care to individuals suffering from significant mood disorders or chronic pain.
"Matt has been a tremendous, highly effective leader since co-founding Delic and has grown this company into the success it is today. I am grateful for his leadership and humbled to continue as CEO during such a pivotal moment in our industry," said Nicholson. "We are leveraging and growing our umbrella of businesses, including the nation's largest network of ketamine clinics, KWC, and look forward to expanding in 2022. Alongside Delic's Board of Directors, I am committed to continuing Delic's mission of providing effective, affordable treatment options to anyone who needs them and educating on the safety and long-term benefits of these new therapies."
In accordance with the Company's Share Compensation Plan, Delic has granted 4,600,000 stock options to certain officers, directors, employees, and consultants to purchase 4,600,000 subordinate voting shares. Each option grant vests in three equal installments, six, twelve and eighteen months from the date of issue. Each option is exercisable, once vested, for a period of three years from the date of grant at an exercise price of C$0.10 per subordinate voting share.
Delic is a leader in new medicines and treatments for a modern world, improving access to health benefits across the country and reframing the conversation on psychedelics. The company owns and operates an umbrella of related businesses, including the largest chain of psychedelic wellness clinics in the country, Ketamine Wellness Centers; the only licensed entity by Health Canada to focus exclusively on research and development of psilocybin vaporization technology, Delic Labs; the premier psychedelic wellness event, Meet Delic; and trusted media and e-commerce platforms Reality Sandwich and Delic Radio. Delic is backed by a team of industry and cannabis veterans and a diverse network, whose mission is to provide education, research, high-quality products, and better access to effective and affordable treatment options.
This press release contains certain "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation and may also contain statements that may constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward-looking information and forward-looking statements are not representative of historical facts or information or current condition, but instead represent only the Company's beliefs regarding future events, plans or objectives, many of which, by their nature, are inherently uncertain and outside of Delic's control. Generally, such forward-looking information or forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or may contain statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will be taken", "will continue", "will occur" or "will be achieved". The forward-looking information and forward-looking statements contained herein may include, but are not limited to: the Company's plans and strategies; future management contributions by the newly appointed officers; and the potential vesting and exercise of stock options.
By identifying such information and statements in this manner, Delic is alerting the reader that such information and statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of Delic to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such information and statements. Such risks, assumptions and other factors may include, but are not limited to: changes in general economic, business and political conditions, including changes in the financial markets; the potential impact of the announcement of the officers' appointments on relationships, including with regulatory bodies, employees, suppliers, customers and competitors; inability to obtain future financing on suitable terms; failure to obtain required regulatory and other approvals; risks inherent in the psychedelic treatment sector; changes in applicable laws and regulations; and failure to comply with applicable laws and regulations; risks related to global pandemics, including the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) global health pandemic, and the spread of other viruses or pathogens; influence of macroeconomic developments; business opportunities that become available to, or are pursued by Delic; reduced access to debt and equity capital; litigation; the volatility of the stock market; competition; future sales or issuances of debt or equity securities; liquidity; market for securities; enforcement of civil judgments; and the other risks and uncertainties disclosed under the heading "Risk Factors" in the Company's most recent Annual Information Form, and other documents filed with or submitted to the Canadian securities regulatory authorities on the SEDAR website at www.sedar.com.
Should one or more of these risks, uncertainties or other factors materialize, or should assumptions underlying the forward-looking information or statements prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described herein as intended, planned, anticipated, believed, estimated or expected.
Although Delic believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing, and the expectations contained in, the forward-looking information and statements are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on such information and statements, and no assurance or guarantee can be given that such forward-looking information and statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information and statements. The forward-looking information and forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as of the date of this press release, and Delic does not undertake to update any forward-looking information and/or forward-looking statements that are contained or referenced herein, except in accordance with applicable securities laws. All subsequent written and oral forward-looking information and statements attributable to Delic or persons acting on its behalf is expressly qualified in its entirety by this notice.
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SOURCE Delic Holdings Inc. | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/08/16/delic-announces-two-key-executive-appointments/ | 2022-08-16T11:37:32Z |
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — The fatal film-set shooting of a cinematographer by actor Alec Baldwin last year was an accident, according to a determination made by New Mexico’s Office of the Medical Investigator following the completion of an autopsy and a review of law enforcement reports.
The medical investigator’s report was made public Monday by the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office along with numerous reports from the FBI on the revolver and ammunition that were collected following the shooting.
Prosecutors have not yet decided if any charges will be filed in the case, saying they would review the latest reports and were awaiting cell phone data from Baldwin’s attorneys.
Baldwin was pointing a gun at cinematographer Halyna Hutchins when it went off on Oct. 21, killing Hutchins and wounding the director, Joel Souza. They had been inside a small church during setup for filming a scene.
While it’s too early to say how much weight the medical investigator’s report will carry with the district attorney’s office, Baldwin’s legal team suggested it was further proof that the shooting was “a tragic accident” and that he should not face criminal charges.
“This is the third time the New Mexico authorities have found that Alec Baldwin had no authority or knowledge of the allegedly unsafe conditions on the set, that he was told by the person in charge of safety on the set that the gun was ‘cold,’ and believed the gun was safe,” attorney Luke Nikas said in a statement.
Baldwin said in a December interview with ABC News that he was pointing the gun at Hutchins at her instruction on the set of the Western film “Rust” when it went off after he cocked it. He said he did not pull the trigger.
An FBI analysis of the revolver that Baldwin had in his hand during the rehearsal suggested it was in working order at the time and would not have discharged unless it was fully cocked and the trigger was pulled.
With the hammer in full cock position, the FBI report stated the gun could not be made to fire without pulling the trigger while the working internal components were intact and functional.
During the testing of the gun by the FBI, authorities said, portions of the gun’s trigger sear and cylinder stop fractured while the hammer was struck. That allowed the hammer to fall and the firing pin to detonate the primer.
“This was the only successful discharge during this testing and it was attributed to the fracture of internal components, not the failure of the firearm or safety mechanisms,” the report stated.
It was unclear from the FBI report how many times the revolver’s hammer may have been struck during the testing.
Baldwin, who also was a producer on the movie “Rust,” has previously said the gun should not have been loaded for the rehearsal.
Among the ammunition seized from the film location were live rounds found on a cart and in the holster that was in the building where the shooting happened. Blank and dummy cartridges also were found.
New Mexico’s Occupational Health and Safety Bureau in a scathing report issued in April detailed a narrative of safety failures in violation of standard industry protocols, including testimony that production managers took limited or no action to address two misfires on set prior to the fatal shooting.
The bureau also documented gun safety complaints from crew members that went unheeded and said weapons specialists were not allowed to make decisions about additional safety training.
In reaching its conclusion that the shooting was an accident, New Mexico’s medical investigator’s office pointed to “the absence of obvious intent to cause harm or death” and stated that there was said “no compelling demonstration” that the revolver was intentionally loaded with live ammunition on the set.
___
Associated Press writer Walter Berry in Phoenix contributed to this report. | https://cw33.com/entertainment-news/ap-entertainment/medical-investigator-rules-baldwin-set-shooting-an-accident/ | 2022-08-16T00:44:44Z |
SAN ANTONIO, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Clear Channel Outdoor Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: CCO) (the "Company") today reported financial results for the quarter ended June 30, 2022.
"We delivered strong results during the second quarter, exceeding our consolidated revenue guidance, as advertising demand remained robust across our markets in the Americas and Europe," said Scott Wells, Chief Executive Officer of Clear Channel Outdoor Holdings, Inc. "Our strong performance was once again led by our digital assets, which are becoming a greater contributor to our results as we advance as a visual media powerhouse targeting consumers on the move.
"The out-of-home industry is forecasted to grow well ahead of other traditional media for the full year and we're well positioned to benefit given our progress in innovating and modernizing our asset base and operating infrastructure. We're making our solutions more data driven, easier to buy and faster to launch, which is expanding the range of advertisers we can pursue.
"With our top-line momentum continuing into the current quarter, we're keeping a close watch on developments impacting the global economy. As we have demonstrated during the COVID-19 pandemic, we have the levers to manage our costs should that need arise, while ensuring we have ample liquidity on our balance sheet.
"As we execute our core investment plan, we continue to evaluate strategic alternatives for our European business. Given the current state of European capital markets, our Board of Directors has authorized the Company to focus the strategic review on the potential disposal of certain of our lower-margin or lower-priority European assets, in line with our goal to optimize our portfolio in the best interests of our shareholders."
Financial Highlights:
Second quarter of 2022, as compared to the same period of 2021:
Americas:
- Revenue up 27.4% to $346.1 million
- Segment Adjusted EBITDA1 up 16.9% to $148.8 million
Europe:
- Revenue up 13.4% to $280.3 million. Revenue, excluding movements in foreign exchange rates ("FX")1, up 27.8% to $315.8 million
- Segment Adjusted EBITDA1 up $42.8 million to $44.5 million. Segment Adjusted EBITDA1, excluding movements in FX, up $48.6 million to $50.4 million
Guidance:
Our expectations for the third quarter of 2022 are as follows:
- Consolidated revenue between $625 million and $645 million, excluding movements in FX
- Americas revenue between $340 million and $350 million
- Europe revenue between $270 million and $280 million, excluding movements in FX
We expect consolidated capital expenditures for the full year of 2022 to be between $185 million and $205 million.
Expected results and estimates may be impacted by factors outside of the Company's control, and actual results may be materially different from this guidance. See "Cautionary Statement Concerning Forward-Looking Statements" herein.
Results:
Revenue for the second quarter of 2022, as compared to the same period of 2021:
Americas: Revenue up 27.4%:
- Revenue up across most products, primarily driven by airport displays and billboards
- Digital revenue up 53.2% to $130.4 million from $85.2 million
- National sales comprised 38.6% and 37.1% of total revenue for the three months ended June 30, 2022 and 2021, respectively
Europe: Revenue up 13.4%; excluding movements in FX, up 27.8%:
- Revenue up across all products, most notably street furniture and transit, and in almost all countries, led by France, Sweden and the U.K.
- Digital revenue up 34.0% to $107.5 million from $80.3 million; digital revenue, excluding movements in FX, up 50.6% to $120.9 million
Other: Revenue up 37.0%; excluding movements in FX, up 38.1%:
- Revenue up in all countries
Direct operating and SG&A expenses for the second quarter of 2022, as compared to the same period of 2021:
Americas: Direct operating and SG&A expenses up 36.4%:
- Site lease expense up 49.4% to $114.4 million from $76.6 million; driven by higher revenue and lower negotiated rent abatements
- Higher compensation costs driven by improvements in operating performance and increased headcount
- Higher credit loss expense related to higher current year revenue & prior year reductions in allowance for credit losses
Europe: Direct operating and SG&A expenses down 9.3%; excluding movements in FX, up 2.1%:
- Site lease expense up 0.6% to $111.7 million from $111.0 million; site lease expense, excluding movements in FX, up 13.2% to $125.7 million driven by higher revenue and lower negotiated rent abatements & governmental rent subsidies
- Higher compensation costs driven by improvements in operating performance
- Partially offset by lower costs for our restructuring plan to reduce headcount
Other: Direct operating and SG&A expenses up 15.6%; excluding movements in FX, up 16.6%:
- Higher site lease expense driven by higher revenue
- Higher compensation costs driven by increased headcount
Corporate expenses for the second quarter of 2022, as compared to the same period of 2021:
Corporate expenses up 3.6%; excluding movements in FX, up 5.4%:
- Higher compensation costs, including share-based compensation
Net Loss:
Consolidated net loss was $65.3 million and $124.4 million during the three months ended June 30, 2022 and 2021, respectively, and $155.0 million and $457.9 million during the six months ended June 30, 2022 and 2021, respectively.
- Impairment charges of $21.8 million and $119.0 million recognized during the three months ended June 30, 2022 and six months ended June 30, 2021, respectively, related to indefinite-lived permits
- Losses on extinguishment of debt of $51.7 million and $102.8 million recognized during the three and six months ended June 30, 2021, respectively, related to redemption of the Clear Channel Worldwide Holdings 9.25% Senior Notes due 2024
- Other expense of $26.2 million and $32.2 million recognized during the three and six months ended June 30, 2022, respectively, compared to other income of $3.6 million and $10.2 million during the three and six months ended June 30, 2021, respectively, driven by net foreign exchange transaction losses and gains
- Income tax expense of $23.4 million and $20.7 million recognized during the three and six months ended June 30, 2022, respectively, compared to income tax benefit of $0.4 million and $29.1 million during the three and six months ended June 30, 2021, respectively
Digital displays:
- Americas markets deployed 29 new digital billboards in the second quarter, adding to a total of more than 1,600 digital billboards as of June 30, 2022. Combined with our smaller format digital displays in airports and on shelters, we had a total of more than 3,200 digital displays across the United States as of June 30, 2022.
- Europe markets added 281 new digital displays in the second quarter, adding to a total of more than 18,800 digital displays as of June 30, 2022.
- Our Latin American markets had more than 700 digital displays as of June 30, 2022.
Clear Channel International B.V.
Our Europe segment consists of the businesses operated by Clear Channel International B.V. ("CCIBV") and its consolidated subsidiaries. Accordingly, the revenue for our Europe segment is the same as the revenue for CCIBV. Europe Segment Adjusted EBITDA, the segment profitability metric reported in our financial statements, does not include an allocation of CCIBV's corporate expenses that are deducted from CCIBV's operating income (loss) and Adjusted EBITDA.
As discussed above, Europe and CCIBV revenue increased $33.2 million during the second quarter of 2022 compared to the same period of 2021 to $280.3 million. After adjusting for a $35.5 million impact from movements in FX, Europe and CCIBV revenue increased $68.7 million.
CCIBV operating income was $15.6 million in the second quarter of 2022 compared to operating loss of $40.0 million in the same period in 2021.
For a discussion of revenue and direct operating and SG&A expenses driving CCIBV's Adjusted EBITDA, see the discussion of our Europe Segment Adjusted EBITDA in this earnings release.
Liquidity and Financial Position:
Cash and Cash Equivalents:
As of June 30, 2022, we had $314.6 million of cash on our balance sheet, including $105.1 million of cash held outside the U.S.
Debt:
During the six months ended June 30, 2022, we made principal payments on our Term Loan Facility totaling $10.0 million and expect to make additional principal payments of $10.0 million during the remainder of the year. Our next material debt maturity is in 2025 when the $375.0 million aggregate principal amount of CCIBV 6.625% Senior Secured Notes is due. However, at our option, we may redeem or repay a portion of our outstanding debt prior to maturity in accordance with the terms of our debt agreements.
We anticipate having approximately $179.9 million of cash interest payment obligations during the remainder of 2022 and $372.2 million of cash interest payment obligations in 2023, assuming current interest rates remain and that we do not refinance or incur additional debt.
Please refer to Table 3 in this earnings release for additional detail regarding our outstanding debt balance.
Update Regarding Review of Strategic Alternatives for European Business:
As previously disclosed in December 2021, our Board of Directors authorized a review of strategic alternatives for our European business, including a possible sale. Since that time, the Company has diligently and thoroughly conducted this strategic review and continues to do so, intending to optimize our portfolio in the best interests of our shareholders. Given the current state of European capital markets, and the resulting environment to transact for the whole of our European business, our Board of Directors has authorized the Company to focus the strategic review on the potential disposal of certain of our lower-margin European assets (and/or other European assets of lower priority to our European business on the whole), while retaining, for now, our higher-margin European assets, which are performing well. Accordingly, the Company is currently focused on strategic dialogues with potential acquirers of such lower-margin and/or lower-priority European assets.
As before, there can be no assurance that the strategic review process will result in any transaction(s) or particular outcome(s). The Company has not set a timetable for completion of the review, may suspend the process at any time and does not intend to make further announcements regarding the process unless and until our Board of Directors approves a course of action for which further disclosure is appropriate.
Supplemental Disclosure Regarding Non-GAAP Financial Information and Segment Adjusted EBITDA:
A significant portion of the Company's advertising operations is conducted in foreign markets, principally Europe, and Company management reviews the results from its foreign operations on a constant dollar basis. The Company presents the non-GAAP financial measures of revenue excluding movements in FX, direct operating and SG&A expenses excluding movements in FX, corporate expenses excluding movements in FX and Adjusted EBITDA (as defined below) excluding movements in FX because Company management believes that viewing certain financial results without the impact of fluctuations in foreign currency rates facilitates period-to-period comparisons of business performance and provides useful information to investors. These non-GAAP financial measures, which exclude the effects of foreign exchange rates, are calculated by converting the current period's amounts in local currency to U.S. dollars using average foreign exchange rates for the comparable prior period.
The Company presents Adjusted EBITDA because the Company believes Adjusted EBITDA helps investors better understand the Company's operating performance as compared to other out-of-home advertisers, and this metric is widely used in practice. The Company defines "Adjusted EBITDA" as consolidated net income (loss), plus: income tax expense (benefit); all non-operating expenses (income), including other expense (income), net, loss on extinguishment of debt, and interest expense, net; other operating expense (income), net; impairment charges; depreciation and amortization; non-cash compensation expenses included within corporate expenses; and restructuring and other costs included within operating expenses. Restructuring and other costs include costs associated with cost savings initiatives such as severance, consulting and termination costs and other special costs. The Company uses Adjusted EBITDA as one of the primary measures for the planning and forecasting of future periods, as well as for measuring performance for compensation of Company executives and other members of Company management. The Company believes Adjusted EBITDA is useful for investors because it allows investors to view performance in a manner similar to the method used by Company management and helps improve investors' ability to understand the Company's operating performance, making it easier to compare the Company's results with other companies that have different capital structures or tax rates. In addition, the Company believes Adjusted EBITDA is among the primary measures used externally by the Company's investors, analysts and peers in its industry for purposes of valuation and comparing the operating performance of the Company to other companies in its industry.
As part of the calculation of Adjusted EBITDA, the Company also presents the non-GAAP financial measure of "Adjusted Corporate expenses," which the Company defines as corporate expenses excluding restructuring and other costs and non-cash compensation expense.
Since these non-GAAP financial measures are not calculated in accordance with GAAP, they should not be considered in isolation of, or as a substitute for, the most directly comparable GAAP financial measures as an indicator of operating performance or, in the case of Adjusted EBITDA, the Company's ability to fund its cash needs. In addition, Adjusted EBITDA may not be comparable to similarly-titled measures employed by other companies. Users of this non-GAAP financial information should consider the types of events and transactions that are excluded.
As required by SEC rules, the Company provides reconciliations below to the most directly comparable measures reported under GAAP, including (i) consolidated net loss to Adjusted EBITDA and (ii) corporate expenses to Adjusted Corporate expenses.
Segment Adjusted EBITDA
The Company has two reportable segments, which it believes best reflect how the Company is currently managed: Americas and Europe. The Company's remaining operating segment, Latin America, does not meet the quantitative threshold to qualify as a reportable segment and is disclosed as "Other" herein.
Segment Adjusted EBITDA is the profitability metric reported to the Company's chief operating decision maker for purposes of making decisions about allocation of resources to, and assessing performance of, each reportable segment. Segment Adjusted EBITDA is a GAAP financial measure that is calculated as Revenue less Direct operating expenses and SG&A expenses, excluding restructuring and other costs. Restructuring and other costs include costs associated with cost savings initiatives such as severance, consulting and termination costs and other special costs.
Conference Call
The Company will host a conference call to discuss these results on August 9, 2022 at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time. The conference call number is 1-844-200-6205 (U.S. callers) and 1-929-526-1599 (international callers), and the access code for both is 285910. A live audio webcast of the conference call will be available on the "Events and Presentations" section of the Company's investor website (investor.clearchannel.com). After the live conference call, a replay of the webcast will be available for a period of 30 days on the "Events and Presentations" section of the Company's investor website.
About Clear Channel Outdoor Holdings, Inc.
Clear Channel Outdoor Holdings, Inc. ("CCOH") (NYSE: CCO) is at the forefront of driving innovation in the out-of-home advertising industry. Our dynamic advertising platform is broadening the pool of advertisers using our medium through the expansion of digital billboards and displays and the integration of data analytics and programmatic capabilities that deliver measurable campaigns that are simpler to buy. By leveraging the scale, reach and flexibility of our diverse portfolio of assets, we connect advertisers with millions of consumers every month across more than 500,000 print and digital displays in 25 countries.
Cautionary Statement Concerning Forward-Looking Statements
Certain statements in this earnings release constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of Clear Channel Outdoor Holdings, Inc. to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. The words or phrases "guidance," "believe," "expect," "anticipate," "estimate," "forecast" and similar words and expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. In addition, any statements that refer to expectations or other characterizations of future events or circumstances, such as statements about our guidance and outlook, our business plans and strategies, our expectations about certain markets, strategic review processes and our liquidity are forward-looking statements. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to certain risks, uncertainties and other factors, some of which are beyond our control and are difficult to predict.
Various risks that could cause future results to differ from those expressed by the forward-looking statements included in this earnings release include, but are not limited to: risks associated with weak or uncertain global economic conditions and their impact on the level of expenditures on advertising; heightened levels of economic inflation and rising interest rates; fluctuations in operating costs; supply chain shortages; the war in Ukraine and the associated global effects thereof; the continued impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on our operations and on general economic conditions; our ability to service our debt obligations and to fund our operations and capital expenditures; the impact of our substantial indebtedness, including the effect of our leverage on our financial position and earnings; industry conditions, including competition; our ability to obtain and renew key contracts with municipalities, transit authorities and private landlords; technological changes and innovations; shifts in population and other demographics; changes in labor conditions and management; regulations and consumer concerns regarding privacy and data protection; a breach of our information security systems and measures; legislative or regulatory requirements; restrictions on out-of-home advertising of certain products; the impact of the continued strategic review of our European business and assets, including a possible sale thereof; our ability to execute restructuring plans; the impact of future dispositions, acquisitions and other strategic transactions; third-party claims of intellectual property infringement, misappropriation or other violation against us or our suppliers; the risk that indemnities from iHeartMedia will not be sufficient to insure us against the full amount of certain liabilities; risks of doing business in foreign countries; fluctuations in exchange rates and currency values; volatility of our stock price; the effect of analyst or credit ratings downgrades; our ability to continue to comply with the applicable listing standards of the New York Stock Exchange; the ability of our subsidiaries to dividend or distribute funds to us in order for us to repay our debts; the restrictions contained in the agreements governing our indebtedness limiting our flexibility in operating our business; the phasing out of LIBOR; our dependence on our management team and other key individuals; continued scrutiny and changing expectations from investors, lenders, customers, government regulators and other stakeholders; and certain other factors set forth in our other filings with the SEC. This list of factors that may affect future performance and the accuracy of forward-looking statements is illustrative and is not intended to be exhaustive. Accordingly, all forward-looking statements should be evaluated with the understanding of their inherent uncertainty.
You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date stated, or if no date is stated, as of the date of this earnings release. Other key risks are described in the section entitled "Item 1A. Risk Factors" of the Company's reports filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, including the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2021. Except as otherwise stated in this earnings release, the Company does not undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements because of new information, future events or otherwise.
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SOURCE Clear Channel Outdoor Holdings, Inc. | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/08/09/clear-channel-outdoor-holdings-inc-reports-results-second-quarter-2022/ | 2022-08-09T11:26:44Z |
– Company shares to begin trading July 25 under new ticker symbols –
– Subordinate voting shares to be reclassified as common shares –
– Share consolidation not proceeding at this time –
OAKLAND, CALIF., AND TORONTO, July 14, 2022 /PRNewswire/ - Harborside Inc. ("Harborside"", or the "Company") (CSE: HBOR), (OTCQX: HBORF ), a California-focused, vertically integrated cannabis enterprise, today announced that it will complete the previously announced name change (the "Name Change") to StateHouse Holdings Inc. ("StateHouse" or the "Company") on July 25, 2022. The Company previously filed articles of amendment to effect these changes.
"This is an important milestone for the Company, which was formed through the business combination of four pioneering California companies," said Ed Schmults, Chief Executive Officer. "As we look to the future, the Name Change to StateHouse reflects our shared journey from activism and advocacy, to the establishment of an enterprise with high standards of quality, consistency and reliability. Separately and now together, we have developed a legitimate industry from the ground up. Today, we begin a new chapter as we continue to build a premier California cannabis company. We believe our fully integrated platform for growth is the finest of any cannabis firm in the state."
The Company also announced today that its subordinate voting shares ("SVS") will be reclassified as common shares ("Common Shares") effective July 25, 2022 (the "Reclassification"), and that its board of directors (the "Board") has elected not to proceed with a share consolidation at this time. The Board has also granted restricted share units ("RSUs") evidencing the right to receive up to an aggregate of 450,000 SVS, subject to the satisfaction of certain vesting conditions, and options to purchase up to an aggregate 4,200,000 SVS to certain members of its management team in order to further align the interests of the Company's management and shareholders. The options are exercisable at a price of C$0.37 per SVS for a period of five years from the date of grant, with one quarter of the total number of options granted vesting on each of the first, second, third and fourth anniversary of the date of grant.
NAME CHANGE
The Company will be officially renamed StateHouse on July 25, 2022. The new corporate website statehouseholdings.com will launch on that date with additional information about the Company and its go-forward strategy. Harborside's archived corporate information, including financial results and news releases, will also be available on the StateHouse site.
Effective upon the market open on July 25, 2022, the stock will trade on the Canadian Securities Exchange under the new ticker symbol "STHZ.". The Name Change was overwhelmingly approved by shareholders of the Company at a special meeting (the "Meeting") held on February 22, 2022.
SHARE RECLASSIFICATION
The Company's SVS will be reclassified as Common Shares, effective July 25, 2022. The Reclassification is attributable to the mandatory conversion of Harborside multiple voting shares into SVS (the "Mandatory Conversion"), which was completed on March 31, 2022. Due to the Mandatory Conversion, there is now just a single class of StateHouse shares and no need for a designation other than Common Shares to describe such shares outstanding.
"We are very pleased with the changes to the Company's equity capitalization that have now resulted in a 'one share - one vote' structure," added Mr. Schmults. "This streamlined structure is part of a broader strategy designed to create a company that treats all shareholders equally, attracts institutional investors, and reflects our goal of being the premier investment vehicle in the California cannabis industry."
The Reclassification was overwhelmingly approved by shareholders of the Company at the annual and special meeting of the Company held on June 23, 2022. The Company's new CUSIP number for its Common Shares will be 85754G301 and its new ISIN number will be CA85754G3017 upon completion of the Name Change and the Reclassification.
All registered holders of SVS (being a shareholder who holds their SVS directly, registered in their own name), are asked to forward, by personal delivery or by registered mail, any physical share certificate(s) representing their existing SVS to the Company's registrar and transfer agent, Odyssey Trust Company, at 702-67 Yonge Street, Toronto, ON M5E 1J8, Attention: Securities, along with a letter requesting for such physical share certificate(s) to be updated to reflect the new CUSIPs for the securities of the Company resulting from the Reclassification. Shareholders who hold their securities through a broker, investment dealer, bank or trust company should contact that nominee or intermediary for assistance in depositing their securities in connection with the Reclassification.
SHARE CONSOLIDATION
After careful consideration, the Board has elected not to proceed with the consolidation of its issued and outstanding SVS (the "Consolidation") on a six-for-one basis at this time. The Consolidation was previously approved by shareholders at the Meeting. The Board will continue to monitor market conditions carefully and could proceed with the Consolidation at a later date if it determines that such a decision is in the best interests of shareholders. Depending on the timing of the implementation of such Consolidation, shareholder approval may be required in order to effect the Consolidation.
About Harborside (to be renamed StateHouse)
Harborside, a vertically integrated enterprise with cannabis licenses covering retail, major brands, distribution, cultivation, nursery and manufacturing, is one of the oldest and most respected cannabis companies in California. Founded in 2006, Harborside was awarded one of the first six medical cannabis licenses granted in the United States. Today, the Company operates 14 dispensaries covering Northern and Southern California and one in Oregon, distribution facilities in San Jose and Los Angeles, California and integrated cultivation/production facilities in Salinas and Greenfield, California. Harborside is a publicly listed company, currently trading on the Canadian Securities Exchange ("CSE") under the ticker symbol "HBOR" and the OTCQX under the ticker symbol "HBORF". The Company continues to play an instrumental role in making cannabis safe and accessible to a broad and diverse community of California and Oregon consumers.
Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information
This news release contains "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" (collectively, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of the applicable Canadian and United States securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements and are based on expectations, estimates, and projections as at the date of this news release. Any statement that involves discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions, future events or performance (often but not always using phrases such as "expects", or "does not expect", "is expected", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", "plans", "budget", "scheduled", "forecasts", "estimates", "believes" or "intends" or variations of such words and phrases or stating that certain actions, events or results "may" or "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken to occur or be achieved) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking statements. In this news release, forward-looking statements include, among other things: the ability to complete the Name Change and the Reclassification within anticipated timeframes, if at all; the timing of trading of the Common Shares under the StateHouse name following the Name Change and Reclassification within anticipated timeframes; the impact of the Name Change and Reclassification on the Company; the ability to complete the Consolidation, if at all; the ability of the Company to build a premier California cannabis company and to establish its integrated platform for growth; the establishment of the Company's new corporate website and the information available on such website; the ability of the Company to capture additional market share; and the ability of the Company to attract institutional investors.
These forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions and estimates of management of the Company at the time such statements were made. Actual future results may differ materially as forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance, or achievements of the Company to materially differ from any future results, performance, or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors, among other things, include: implications of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic on the Company's operations; fluctuations in general macroeconomic conditions; fluctuations in securities markets; expectations regarding the size of the cannabis markets where the Company operates; changing consumer habits; the ability of the Company to successfully achieve its business objectives; plans for expansion and acquisitions; political and social uncertainties; inability to obtain adequate insurance to cover risks and hazards; employee relations; the presence of laws and regulations that may impose restrictions on cultivation, production, distribution, and sale of cannabis and cannabis-related products in the markets where the Company operates; and the risk factors set out in the Company's management discussion and analysis for the period ended March 31, 2022 and the Company's annual information form dated December 13, 2021, which are available under the Company's profile on www.sedar.com. Although the forward-looking statements contained in this news release are based upon what management of the Company believes, or believed at the time, to be reasonable assumptions, the Company cannot assure shareholders that actual results will be consistent with such forward-looking statements, as there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. Readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements and information contained in this news release. The Company assumes no obligation to update the forward-looking statements of beliefs, opinions, projections, or other factors, should they change, except as required by law.
The Company, through several of its subsidiaries, is indirectly involved in the manufacture, possession, use, sale, and distribution of cannabis in the recreational and medicinal cannabis marketplace in the United States. Local state laws where the Company operates permit such activities however, investors should note that there are significant legal restrictions and regulations that govern the cannabis industry in the United States. Cannabis remains a Schedule I drug under the US Controlled Substances Act, making it illegal under federal law in the United States to, among other things, cultivate, distribute or possess cannabis in the United States. Financial transactions involving proceeds generated by, or intended to promote, cannabis-related business activities in the United States may form the basis for prosecution under applicable United States federal money laundering legislation.
While the approach to enforcement of such laws by the federal government in the United States has trended toward non-enforcement against individuals and businesses that comply with recreational and medicinal cannabis programs in states where such programs are legal, strict compliance with state laws with respect to cannabis will neither absolve the Company of liability under United States federal law, nor will it provide a defense to any federal proceeding which may be brought against the Company. The enforcement of federal laws in the United States is a significant risk to the business of the Company and any proceedings brought against the Company thereunder may adversely affect the Company's operations and financial performance.
This news release does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, any securities in the United States. The Company's securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act") or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to U.S. Persons unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration is available.
The CSE has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this news release. Neither the CSE nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the CSE) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
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SOURCE Harborside Inc. | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/07/14/harborside-inc-changes-name-statehouse-holdings-inc-honor-its-pioneering-history-reflect-its-future-direction/ | 2022-07-14T13:43:43Z |
Equity Methods has the highest loyalty rating for the tenth year in a row, and a 100% favorable overall satisfaction rating.
Among equity plan administration providers, UBS received the highest loyalty and overall satisfaction rating for the third year in a row.
NOVATO, Calif., Sept. 15, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- In the Group Five Financial Reporting Benchmarking Study, corporate plan sponsors rate their loyalty and satisfaction with third-party service providers who offer financial reporting services related to equity compensation plans. In this year's study, industry-wide loyalty decreased three points compared to last year's study to a Net Promoter Score (NPS)* of 50, while overall satisfaction declined by one point to 87% favorable.** The decreases in loyalty and overall satisfaction are statistically insignificant and reflect steady levels of client satisfaction with both platform functionality and reports.
"Among clients of financial reporting service providers, loyalty and satisfaction is driven primarily by platform functionality, reporting accuracy, and support staff expertise" said Kathy Huston, President of Group Five.
Equity Methods, an independent valuation, financial reporting, and human resources advisory services firm, for the tenth consecutive year, received the highest ratings in the study with an NPS of 97 and an overall satisfaction rating of 100% favorable.
"We're honored to be recognized with the top satisfaction and loyalty scores in the industry again this year," said Takis Makridis, president and CEO of Equity Methods. "Our clients face unrelenting regulatory, market, and workforce change. We take pride in offering them an integrated approach that brings creativity, flexibility, and automation to their most critical equity compensation initiatives and processes. This year marks our tenth anniversary as an independent company, making this acknowledgement from clients especially meaningful."
Among full-service equity plan administration service providers who deliver financial reporting services to plan sponsors as part of their service offering, UBS has the highest loyalty rating with an NPS of 62, and the highest overall satisfaction rating at 94% favorable.
"UBS is honored to once again be rated #1 in overall satisfaction for financial reporting for the third consecutive year among equity plan administration providers" said Michael Barry, Head of UBS Workplace Wealth Solutions. "With heightened regulatory and shareholder scrutiny on equity awards, we know that rigor around execution and service excellence is imperative. We are very grateful to our clients for recognizing our commitment to the workplace and the teams' knowledge and hyper focus on client support in this area as well as other critical areas such as financial wellness for all employees, international and executive services. We are firmly committed to the workplace business and helping companies and their employees."
Now in its 24th year, this year's annual study includes responses from 380 U.S. public companies who use an outsourced financial reporting service provider. The Group Five study is the only independent forum for plan sponsors to confidentially express their opinions and priorities to service providers. To download a complimentary summary of the results by service provider, please visit Group Five's website.
Founded in 1990, Group Five Inc. is a corporate services research firm. Group Five, an industry leader in business-to-business loyalty and satisfaction research, is best known for research in equity plan administration and shareholder services.
*NPS®, Net Promoter® & Net Promoter Score® are a registered trademark of Fred Reichheld, Satmetrix, and Bain & Company. Net Promoter Scores range from -100 to +100 based upon the difference between the percent of promoter and detractor scores.
**A favorable rating is defined as a rating of 4 or 5 on a 1 to 5 satisfaction scale.
No advertising or other promotional use can be made of the information in this release without the express prior written consent of Group Five.
Company Contact:
Kathy Huston, 415.785.7983
info@groupfiveinc.com
www.groupfiveinc.com
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SOURCE Group Five | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/09/15/group-five-releases-2022-results-equity-compensation-financial-reporting-services/ | 2022-09-15T15:16:21Z |
The Initiative Enables Next-Generation Services Including Autonomous Driving and Unmanned Delivery
TEL AVIV, Israel and TOKYO, July 21, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Innoviz Technologies Ltd. (NASDAQ: INVZ) (the "Company" or "Innoviz"), a leading provider of high-performance, automotive-grade LiDAR sensors and perception software, today announced that Japan Post, a special private company under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications, offering postal and logistics services as well as banking and life & non-life insurance agency services, aims to construct digital maps with Innoviz's high-performance InnovizOne LiDAR sensor, paving the way for next-generation smart city services such as autonomous driving and unmanned delivery.
Japan Post announced their plans to install InnovizOne LiDAR sensors on their postal delivery cars on July 20, 2022, during Scrum Ventures' SmartCityX Conference in San Francisco, which brought together more than 150 best-in-class founders, VCs, and stage-agnostic startups from across the globe. The InnovizOne equipped delivery vehicles will generate detailed digital maps that gather information such as changes in roads and buildings along delivery routes. These detailed maps will serve as foundational data to enable next-generation services for Japan's residents, such as automated driving and more.
The smart cities market is expanding rapidly, and Autonomous on-road delivery vehicles are a near-term priority for cities that are increasingly looking for efficient ways to move people and goods. The Japanese market for smart city technologies is expected to grow from nearly $45 million USD in 2021 to over $93 million USD by 2027.
"Cities are evolving and re-emerging stronger than ever from the pandemic," said Michael Proman, Managing Director at Scrum Ventures and SmartCityX. "The collaborations between our Japanese partners and participating stage-agnostic startups transcend multiple smart city categories and represent some of the most thoughtful and innovative solutions being deployed around the world. We're thrilled to help further these efforts."
"We greatly appreciate such an innovative approach full of possibilities to solve local issues across the country using the solution from Innoviz," said Executive Officer at Japan Post, Yoshihiro Gomi. "We hope that the combination of our assets and InnovizOne LiDAR sensor will lead to the creation of a new business."
"Our innovative collaboration with Japan Post highlights the versatility of the Innoviz LiDAR and this is another example of new ways to use LiDAR in smart cities," said VP Asia at Innoviz Technologies, David Oberman. "We are grateful for the resources and support from Scrum Ventures to accelerate deployment of our InnovizOne LiDAR sensors for constructing digital maps and bringing value to Japan residents."
Scrum Ventures' SmartCityX program aims to explore new innovations that can unlock new value through partnership with companies, local governments, and startups. Thirteen Japanese corporations representing a variety of industries took part in this year's event. InnovizOne was selected by Japan Post due to its ability to generate precise, high-resolution 3D point cloud data required for building the digital map. Following a successful demonstration last month, the two companies have begun to verify the needs and use of Japan Post data.
About Japan Post
Japan Post is a company that operates postal services and post offices in Japan, aiming to create new value in cooperation with companies outside the Japan Post Group by combining its post offices and delivery networks, one of its greatest strengths, with digital technologies to assist customers in cherishing safe, secure, and enriched lives in their communities.
About Innoviz Technologies
Innoviz is a global leader in LiDAR technology, working towards a future with safe autonomous vehicles on the world's roads. Innoviz's LiDAR and perception software "see" better than a human driver and reduce the possibility of error, meeting the automotive industry's strictest expectations for performance and safety. Operating across the U.S., Europe, and Asia, Innoviz has been selected by internationally recognized premium car brands for use in consumer vehicles as well as by other commercial and industrial leaders for a wide range of use cases. For more information, visit innoviz-tech.com
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Media Contact
Media@innoviz-tech.com
Investor Contact
Maya Lustig
Innoviz Technologies
+972 54 677 8100
Investors@innoviz-tech.com
Forward Looking Statements
This announcement contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws, including statements regarding the services offered by Innoviz, the anticipated technological capability of Innoviz's products, the markets in which Innoviz operates, Innoviz's forward-looking order book, and Innoviz's projected future results. These forward-looking statements generally are identified by the words "believe," "project," "expect," "anticipate," "estimate," "intend," "strategy," "future," "opportunity," "plan," "may," "should," "will," "would," "will be," "will continue," "will likely result," and similar expressions. Forward-looking statements are predictions, projections and other statements about future events that are based on current expectations and assumptions and, as a result, are subject to risks and uncertainties. "Forward-looking order book" is the cumulative projected future sales of hardware and perception software based on current estimates of volumes and pricing relating to a project. Many factors could cause actual future events, and, in the case of our forward-looking order book, actual orders, to differ materially from the forward-looking statements in this announcement, including but not limited to, the ability to implement business plans, forecasts, and other expectations, the ability to convert design wins into definitive orders and the magnitude of such orders, the ability to identify and realize additional opportunities, and potential changes and developments in the highly competitive LiDAR technology and related industries. The foregoing list of factors is not exhaustive. You should carefully consider the foregoing factors and the other risks and uncertainties described in Innoviz's annual report on Form 20-F filed with the SEC on March 30, 2022 and other documents filed by Innoviz from time to time with the SEC. These filings identify and address other important risks and uncertainties that could cause actual events and results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. Readers are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements, and Innoviz assumes no obligation and does not intend to update or revise these forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. Innoviz gives no assurance that it will achieve its expectations.
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SOURCE Innoviz Technologies | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/07/21/japan-post-unveils-cutting-edge-initiative-digitize-roads-digital-maps-using-innoviz-lidar/ | 2022-07-21T00:41:40Z |
Nationwide celebration showcases job opportunities and domestic clean energy security
WASHINGTON, Aug. 15, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- During a time of historic legislative action that will turbocharge the domestic clean power industry, the American Clean Power Association today kicked off American Clean Power Week. This annual celebration of wind, solar, energy storage, and transmission recognizes the many ways that homegrown, affordable, and reliable clean energy is building a better future for the United States.
Experience the full interactive Multichannel News Release here: https://www.multivu.com/players/English/9075151-american-clean-power-week-2022/
This year's theme for the week is "Building the Clean Energy Economy," highlighting clean energy technologies through numerous in-person and virtual events with elected officials, industry leaders, and members of the public across the country.
"With the passage of the Inflation Reduction Act, there couldn't be a better time to celebrate the transformational role of clean energy in building a better America," said Heather Zichal, ACP CEO. "American Clean Power Week demonstrates how clean energy creates good-paying jobs – along with economic and health benefits – for Americans in red, blue, and purple states. Throughout the week, ACP and our member companies will highlight the work being done across the country to build our clean energy economy and educate the public on the benefits this homegrown industry will continue to bring to our country across the next decade."
During American Clean Power Week, cities and states across the country will be recognizing the week through official proclamations, local and state leaders will be presented with Clean Power Champion Awards, and ACP member companies will highlight the benefits their projects bring to their communities through public events and education campaigns. Throughout the week the American Clean Power Association will be cataloging events live on its website.
Land-based wind, offshore wind, solar, transmission, and energy storage are key climate solutions that will help meet our national carbon-free power goals by 2035 while providing good-paying jobs to Americans across the country.
The clean energy industry employs nearly 443,000 Americans – and is poised to more than double the workforce. The renewable energy industry has invested more than $412 billion in the U.S. economy and local communities, and $600 billion of additional investment will be made as a result of the Inflation Reduction Act.
"From Hawaii to West Virginia, the people we serve tell us they want to see us meet their needs with energy that's affordable, that creates jobs in their communities, and that preserves their environment," said Craig Cornelius, ACP Board Chair and CEO of Clearway Energy Group. "The most historic climate and clean energy legislation to ever make its way through Congress will make it possible to deliver on those goals. We're proud to be a part of our country's growing clean energy workforce and celebrate American Clean Power Week by shining light on how it impacts everyday Americans."
Monday, August 15: The American Energy Transformation – The Inflation Reduction Act is a monumental shift in the county's clean energy future. The IRA is estimated to add an additional 525-550 gigawatts of clean power projects built from 2022-2030, which will bring enough clean energy online to power every American home by 2030. This will mean lower consumer energy prices across the board for Americans with annual average savings around $1,000 per household.
Tuesday, August 16: Community Investment and Job Creation – Clean power drives investment into local economies and creates good paying jobs employing nearly 443,000 Americans across the country. With the passage of the IRA the clean energy workforce will more than double, adding another 550,000 jobs to the American workforce, employing nearly 1 million Americans by 2030. Renewables energy projects provide states and localities with critical revenue that allows communities the ability to plan and invest in their future. Clean power projects pay an estimated $1.3 billion in state and local taxes providing enough new income to repair roads, invest in schools, and fund essential services.
Wednesday, August 17: Energy Transition for All – The energy transition is an unparalleled opportunity to create a better future for everyone by offering economic growth and opportunities for investment and innovation, alongside greater access to clean and affordable energy. The clean power industry has a broad range of programs that are working to increase the participation of diverse and underrepresented populations in the industry. The industry is also proud to employ veterans in the wind and solar sectors at rates 50% and 33% respectively higher than the national average.
Thursday, August 18: Reliability and Energy Security – Renewable energy is a reliable and increasing source of homegrown power for Americans across the country. Renewable energy sources are essential to the country's electricity mix, consistently providing a significant portion of American electricity. Grids across America would not be able to meet today's demand without renewables.
Friday, August 19: Building a Better Future – Clean power is building a better future for our planet. Transitioning to zero-carbon energy sources – like land-based wind, offshore wind, and solar – will help drive the clean energy economy forward while also benefiting our planet by reducing the carbon pollution produced by conventional generation sources.
During this week, ACP will also recognize elected officials and leaders across the country with Clean Power Champion Awards for their critical work in advancing clean energy.
The Clean Power Champion Awards are conferred to elected officials that have propelled the clean energy industry forward through policy and leadership. The 2022 Champion Award winners advocated for onshore wind, offshore wind, solar, energy storage, and transmission and helped support clean, homegrown, and reliable energy that will power our country and economy.
This year's recipients include, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA), Rep. Jake Auchincloss (D-MA), Rep. Earl Blumenauer (D-OR), Sen. Thomas Carper (D-DE), Sen. Michael Crapo (R-ID), Sen. Steve Daines (R-MT), Sen. Martin Heinrich (D-NM), California State Senator Robert M. Hertzberg (D-Van Nuys), Rep. Steven Horsford (D-NV), Texas State Representative Donna Howard (D-Austin), Rep. Bill Keating (D-MA) , Rep. David Rouzer (R-NC), Sen. Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Rep. Deborah Ross (D-NC), Sen. Thom Tillis (R-NC), Rep. Paul Tonko (D-NY) and Sen. Ron Wyden (D-OR).
- 442,900+ jobs supported in the clean energy workforce.
- $412 billion invested in wind, solar and energy storage projects.
- Total operating capacity: 211,406 MW – 58 million homes can be powered by clean energy in the U.S.
- $1.3 billion paid annually in state and local taxes.
- $1.4 billion in annual payments to landowners, farmers, ranchers.
- 413,382,000 metric tons of CO2 avoided – equivalent to taking 89 million cars off the road.
Passing the IRA means that by 2030 -
- There will be enough clean energy to power every home in America by 2030.
o There will be three times more clean energy on the electric grid. - The average American can expect to deposit over $1000 per year in energy savings by 2030.
- The IRA pays up to $14,000 for new appliances in your home, including heat pumps, hot water heaters, and induction stoves – which immediately start reducing energy costs and increasing savings.
- New clean energy projects will create $17 billion in state and local revenues for new schools, roads, and projects in local communities.
- The IRA is expected to catalyze $600 billion dollars in private investment into the grid through 2030.
- The clean energy workforce will more than double, adding another 550,000 jobs to American workforce, employing nearly 1 million Americans by 2030.
- Our air will be 40% cleaner by 2030 thanks to the greenhouse-gas emissions avoided by renewables, energy efficiency, and electrification.
- The IRA will catalyze billions to be invested in new, domestic manufacturing plants, creating new jobs for over 150,000 American workers to produce homegrown clean energy.
For a complete list of American Clean Power Week events, please click here.
About ACP: American Clean Power is the voice of the clean power industry that is powering America's future, providing cost-effective solutions to the climate crisis while creating jobs, spurring massive investment in the U.S. economy and driving high-tech innovation across the nation. We are uniting the power of America's renewable energy industry to advance our shared goals and to transform the U.S. power grid to a low-cost, reliable and renewable power system. Learn more about the benefits clean power brings to America at www.cleanpower.org and follow us on Twitter @USCleanPower, Facebook and LinkedIn.
Contact:
Jason Ryan, jryan@cleanpower.org
202-412-7005
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SOURCE American Clean Power Association | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/08/15/american-clean-power-week-2022-kicks-off/ | 2022-08-15T21:19:05Z |
DALLAS, Sept. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Megatel Homes, one of the largest private homebuilders in the country, today announced that the company has closed out the development of Grayhawk, a 169-lot community of single-family homes in the Dallas suburb of Forney, Texas.
Ranging in size from 1,983 square feet to 2,608 square feet, homes in the community were most recently priced between $430,000 and $464,000.
Megatel's Grayhawk community is located in Kaufman County, which was the fastest-growing county in the nation between 2020 and 2021, as reported by U.S News & World Reports. Residents are migrating to Forney in response to the thriving job market, highly rated education system, and housing affordability. The city enjoys a wide array of job opportunities in the technology, engineering, and healthcare sectors. Niche.com, a website that rates cities and schools, cites Forney as one of the best suburbs in Texas in which to buy a home and it holds an "A" rating in diversity and schooling. According to Opendoor, an online company that sells residential real estate, in 2022 Forney ranked as the 8th "hottest" suburb for homebuyers in the United States. Homebuyers across the country are relocating to this growing Dallas suburb at an exponential rate.
"Forney has experienced tremendous growth in the past few years," said Zach Ipour, co-founder. "This Dallas suburb offers an abundance of opportunity in both the employment and housing sectors. We look forward to continued success in Forney from new home sales in our upcoming Bellagio lagoon community."
Megatel Homes is currently developing their highly anticipated lagoon community, Bellagio, in Forney. This revolutionary concept in the housing industry will combine residential living with resort-style amenities. The new community will feature a massive manmade lagoon with white sand beaches, a swim-up bar, and an expansive entertainment district.
"Megatel prides itself on applying innovative thinking to offer new developments that enhance the quality of life for the modern homebuyer without compromising affordability," explained Ipour. "We are excited to introduce this new residential development style to the city of Forney."
About Megatel Homes
Founded in 2006, Megatel Homes has emerged as one of the most successful homebuilders in the country. The company has had considerable growth, with more than 100 developments comprised of several thousand homes, completed since its founding. The company currently has more than 100 communities and is rapidly spreading throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex.
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SOURCE Megatel Homes | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/09/09/megatel-homes-announces-close-out-single-family-residential-development-near-dallas/ | 2022-09-09T19:11:32Z |
DETROIT (AP) — A former University of Michigan violin professor has been sentenced to five years in prison after pleading guilty to transporting a girl across states lines for sex.
A federal judge who sentenced Stephen Shipps, 69, on Thursday also ordered the Ann Arbor man to pay $120,000 in restitution to his victim, federal prosecutors said. Shipps offered an apology and his lawyer had asked for no prison time.
Shipps pleaded guilty in November to one count of transporting a girl across state lines with the intent to engage in sexual conduct. The charges allege that he took the girl across state lines several times between February and July of 2002 with the intention of having sex with her.
The girl was born in 1985, according to court documents.
Shipps’ indictment in October 2020 and arrest in Ann Arbor came two years after the university placed the longtime professor on paid leave after former students accused him of sexual misconduct while he taught them in the 1970s and 1980s in Nebraska and North Carolina.
James C. Harris, III, acting special agent in charge of Homeland Security Investigations in Detroit, said he hopes Shipps’ sentence “sends a powerful message to others in positions of trust that if you prey on the vulnerable you will be held accountable for your actions.”
The University of Michigan has faced intense scrutiny over how it protects people on the campus from sexual misconduct. The school was rocked by allegations that began to publicly surface in 2020 from hundreds of men who said they were sexually assaulted by the late Robert Anderson, who was a campus doctor for nearly 40 years. He died in 2008. In January, the school announced a $490 million settlement with Anderson’s accusers.
Shipps taught at the University of Michigan’s School of Music, Theatre and Dance from 1989 until his retirement in 2019. He also directed a preparatory program that offered musical instruction to children.
Shipps also served on the faculties of Indiana University, the North Carolina School of the Arts, the University of Nebraska–Omaha, and the Banff Centre in Canada, federal authorities said. | https://cw33.com/news/u-s-news/ap-u-s-headlines/ex-michigan-music-professor-gets-prison-on-child-sex-charges/ | 2022-04-16T00:59:44Z |
New convertible Acer Spin 5 and Acer Spin 3 laptops also unveiled
Editor's Summary
- Acer today introduced a suite of powerful new laptops across its popular Swift and Spin ranges, all featuring 12th Gen Intel® Core™ processors and Windows 11
- The new Acer Swift 3 OLED laptop is powered by the latest 12th Gen Intel Core H-series processors and has been Intel Evo™ verified
- The Acer Spin 5 is an Intel Evo verified notebook with a 14-inch 16:10 WQXGA touch display, designed for those who need a sleek device powerful enough for creative projects
- The slim, convertible 14-inch Spin 3 is a 2-in-1 FHD laptop that comes with a dockable Acer Active Stylus for drawing and writing on the go
TAIPEI, May 18, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Acer today introduced a suite of powerful new laptops across its popular Swift and Spin notebook ranges, all featuring 12th Gen Intel® Core™ processors and Windows 11. The Swift 3 OLED combines a beautiful display with powerful performance for professionals on-the-go, while the Spin 5 and Spin 3 are designed for professionals who need a portable laptop with multi-mode functionality.
Acer Swift 3 OLED
The new Acer Swift 3 OLED laptop (SF314-71) is powered by the latest 12th Gen Intel Core H-series processors with Intel Iris® Xe graphics, PCIe Gen 4 SSDs and up to 16 GB of LPDDR5 memory, offering professionals, freelancers and students powerful performance for creation-focused work and gaming. The laptop has also been Intel Evo™ verified as meeting key experience targets such as instant wake from sleep and offering 10 hours[1] of real-world battery life. In a pinch, a 30-minute charge yields over 4 hours of battery life.
Light, modern and thin, the Swift 3 OLED features a 14-inch 16:10 WQXGA+ (2.8k) OLED display with a 92% screen-to-body ratio, which is VESA DisplayHDR True Black 500-certified. The display provides true-to-life images supporting 100% of the DCI-P3 color gamut. The laptop has a 17.9 mm-thin aluminum metal chassis, weighs just 1.4 kg, and features an OceanGlass™ touchpad made from ocean-bound plastic waste that provides users with a sleek glass-like tactile feeling when scrolling.
The Swift 3 OLED features Intel Wi-Fi 6E for blazing-fast connectivity. Its FHD MIPI webcam leverages Acer's Temporal Noise Reduction (TNR) technology to provide high-quality video feedback even when in low-light conditions, while technology like Acer PurifiedVoice™ with AI Noise Reduction ensures that a user's voice comes through loud and clear. Its backlit keyboard features an air inlet design that expels 8-10% more heat than a standard keyboard.
Acer Spin 5
The Acer Spin 5 (SP514-51N) is a light (1.3 kg), ultra slim (16.9 mm) convertible notebook with a 14-inch 16:10 WQXGA (2560 x 1600) touch display with low-blue light TÜV certification and an 88% screen-to-body ratio. The Spin 5's innovative 360-degree hinge design with custom-designed bearings allows for smooth transitions between various usage modes: laptop, stand, tent or tablet mode, making it ready for any task. The Spin 5 is designed for those who need a sleek and convertible device with power for creative projects.
The Acer Spin 5 is an Intel Evo verified laptop, and features up to a 12th Gen Intel Core i7 processor and Intel Iris Xe graphics to accelerate editing needs. It comes with up to 16 GB of LPDDR5 memory and 1 TB of PCIe Gen 4 SSD storage. Killer Wi-Fi 6E AX1675i means faster connectivity to networks and two Type-C USB ports with Thunderbolt™ 4 ensure fast data transfer and power delivery.
The Spin 5's TwinAir cooling system is designed with Acer's Vortex Flow architecture, increasing performance by up to 75%[2]. Dual D6 copper heat pipes help maintain optimal temperature for the best performance experience. The rechargeable Acer Active Stylus with Wacom AES 2.0 technology delivers engineered precision with 4,096 pressure levels for enhanced accuracy and control. The Spin 5 also features Acer PurifedVoice with AI-enhanced Noise Reduction and DTS Audio to ensure high quality audio on video calls.
Acer Spin 3
The slim, convertible 14-inch Spin 3 (SP314-55/N) is a 2-in-1 FHD touchscreen laptop that comes with a dockable Acer Active Stylus[3] for drawing and writing on the go. It is powered by 12th Gen Intel Core processors with Intel Iris Xe graphics and PCIe SSDs, and can be charged for 4 hours' use[4] in 30 minutes, offering solid performance and productivity for professionals on the move. The Acer Spin 3 has narrow bezels that offer an 86% screen-to-body ratio, and rotates 360-degrees making switching between reading, taking notes or sharing work effortless. The laptop offers speedy connectivity with Wi-Fi 6 and dual USB Type-C with Thunderbolt 4 ports to ensure fast data transfer and power delivery. The Spin 3 features an HD camera with Acer's TNR technology and comes with Acer PurifedVoice and AI-enhanced Noise Reduction.
Pricing and Availability
The Acer Swift 3 OLED laptop (SF314-71) will be available in the United States in July 2022, starting at USD 899.99; in EMEA in July 2022 starting at EUR 999; and in China in May 2022, starting at RMB 4,999.
The Acer Spin 5 convertible laptop (SP514-51N) will be available in the United States in July 2022, starting at USD 1,349.99; and in EMEA in July 2022 starting at EUR 1,399.
The Acer Spin 3 convertible laptop (SP314-55/N) will be available in the United States in August 2022, starting at USD 849.99; and in EMEA in June 2022 starting at EUR 999.
Exact specifications, prices, and availability will vary by region. To learn more about availability, product specifications and prices in specific markets, please contact your nearest Acer office via www.acer.com.
Visit Acer's press kit for product images and specifications, or visit the next@acer press room to see all announcements.
About Acer
Founded in 1976, Acer is one of the world's top ICT companies with a presence in more than 160 countries. As Acer evolves with the industry and changing lifestyles, it is focused on enabling a world where hardware, software and services will fuse with one another, creating ecosystems and opening up new possibilities for consumers and businesses alike. Acer's 7,500 employees are dedicated to the research, design, marketing, sale, and support of products and solutions that break barriers between people and technology. Please visit www.acer.com for more information.
© 2022 Acer Inc. All rights reserved. Acer and the Acer logo are registered trademarks of Acer Inc. Other trademarks, registered trademarks, and/or service marks, indicated or otherwise, are the property of their respective owners. All offers subject to change without notice or obligation and may not be available through all sales channels. Prices listed are manufacturer suggested retail prices and may vary by location. Applicable sales tax extra.
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SOURCE Acer | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/05/18/acer-announces-new-swift-3-oled-laptop-with-12th-gen-intel-core-h-series-processors/ | 2022-05-18T15:36:47Z |
CINCINNATI, July 5, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Ran Gupta, Total Asset Planning, is the newest member of the Ameritas Hall of Fame, Ameritas president and CEO Bill Lester announced today. Gupta will enter the Hall of Fame as a 2022 inductee.
The prestigious Hall of Fame award is the highest honor an Ameritas field partner can achieve. The award recognizes people who, over the course of their careers, exhibited outstanding leadership qualities, a commitment to bettering their community, and significant professional contributions to both the insurance industry and to Ameritas.
"This award recognizes members of our field force who have exhibited exceptional leadership qualities and have made significant contributions to both our industry and Ameritas over the course of their careers," Lester said. "Congratulations, Ran – you deserve this lifetime achievement award."
Raneshwar K. Gupta is a financial professional with Total Asset Planning, offering life insurance, disability insurance, annuities, investments, retirement plans and estate planning. Born in Tarn Taran, Punjab, India, he migrated to the United States in 1984, settling in Cincinnati with his wife, Manju, and two children.
Working with Mutual of New York, Gupta was named New Agent of the Year in 1985. Joining Union Central in 2001, he qualified for his first Leaders Conference in Kauai, Hawaii in 2006 before earning the Inner Circle in 2007 and making his first Summit trip to Prague, Czech Republic in 2008. He has been a member of the President's Club three times, Inner Circle twice, Summit of the Inner Circle 12 times and the Leaders Club once. He is a member of Million Dollar Round Table, having achieved Court of the Table and Top of the Table six times each. Gupta is also a member of the National Associate of Insurance and Financial Advisors and has served on many Ameritas committees and task forces.
Gupta and his family are very involved in their community, being a patron member of the Hindu Temple of Greater Cincinnati since 1984. He has held various positions with the temple, including president from 2018 to 2020.
Ameritas is a marketing name for Ameritas Mutual Holding Company and its affiliated subsidiary companies, including Ameritas Life Insurance Corp. and Ameritas Life Insurance Corp. of New York. Founded in 1887, Ameritas offers a wide range of insurance and financial products and services to individuals, families and businesses. These products and services include life insurance; annuities; individual disability income insurance; group dental, vision and hearing care insurance; retirement plans; investments; asset management; and public finance. Securities offered through affiliate Ameritas Investment Company LLC., member FINRA/SIPC, and investment advisory services offered through affiliate Ameritas Advisory Services, LLC. For more information, visit ameritas.com. AIC and AAS are not affiliated with any other entity mentioned herein.
Contact:
Derek Rayment, Sr. Media Relations Specialist
Ameritas Life Insurance Corp.
Phone: 402-467-7850
derek.rayment@ameritas.com
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SOURCE Ameritas | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/07/05/ameritas-announces-new-hall-fame-inductee/ | 2022-07-05T21:02:06Z |
NEW YORK, May 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Pomerantz LLP is investigating claims on behalf of investors of Prudential Financial, Inc. ("Prudential" or the "Company") (NYSE: PRU). Such investors are advised to contact Robert S. Willoughby at newaction@pomlaw.com or 888-476-6529, ext. 7980.
The investigation concerns whether Prudential and certain of its officers and/or directors have engaged in securities fraud or other unlawful business practices.
On April 29, 2022, the Wall Street Journal published an article entitled "How Prudential's Big Tech Bet Went Sour." The article reported on Prudential's $2.3 billion acquisition of Assurance IQ in late 2019, stating that "[t]he deal for Assurance IQ has badly missed its financial targets and left Prudential facing questions from regulators." Specifically, the article stated that "Prudential disclosed in a February filing that it had received a government subpoena and other inquiries 'related to the appropriateness of Assurance IQ's supplemental health product sales and marketing activity.'"
On this news, Prudential's stock price fell $3.61 per share, or 3.22%, to close at $108.51 per share on April 29, 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.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/05/12/shareholder-alert-pomerantz-law-firm-investigates-claims-behalf-investors-prudential-financial-inc-pru/ | 2022-05-12T06:38:21Z |
ATHENS -- Peter Zimmerli, Consul General of Switzerland in Atlanta, implored attendees to expand their thinking regarding technology and sustainability at the opening of the recent Cleantech Symposium at the University of Georgia.
“Imagine a world where all humankind has access to sufficient food assured by sustainable agriculture; imagine a world where we have technology that addresses these needs,” Zimmerli said.
A partnership between the Consulate General of Switzerland, the UGA College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, the Swiss Business Hub and UGA’s Office of Sustainability, the symposium featured a panel discussion, breakout sessions and a student poster competition focused on the future of innovation in sustainable technology. The UGA Innovation District — the home for faculty and student innovation at UGA — was the venue for the event, which attracted business leaders, academics, scientists and consumers to learn from sustainability innovators.
Adrian Robbins, a 2021 CAES graduate and current MBA at UGA, shared information about her ag tech startup, AgLite, a UV-C light sterilization method to prevent the spread of plant disease from contaminated seeds. Robbins was a finalist in the 2021 FABricate Entrepreneurial Initiative pitch competition.
“The world is trying to feed more people on less land with fewer resources, and today was a great example of how we can do that," Chris Rhodes, director of industry partnerships and project-based learning at CAES, said. "CAES partnering with the Swiss Consulate and the Office of Sustainability created a global viewpoint from which we could have conversations about how technology can play a role in sustainability.
“It’s these types of collaborations that will ultimately keep us on track delivering food to a hungry world.”
Each entrepreneur, scientist and consumer has a unique path to sustainable operations and living, a concept that became the focus of discussions among of a panel of industry leaders at the symposium. Panel members, who shared the steps they’ve taken to make their operations more sustainable and strategies for communicating the importance of their work to the larger community, included:
-- Gary Hawkins, UGA Cooperative Extension specialist, water resource management and policy;
-- Marc van Iersel, UGA horticultural crop physiologist, Candidus;
-- Ramzi Bouzerda, CEO, Droople;
-- Jack Albanese, vice president of operations, Terrapin Beer Co.;
-- Tom Macejko, strategic advisor, American Rivers.
Symposium attendees joined breakout sessions, during which panel members shared more in-depth information about their work, vision and journeys, and expanded the discussion through question-and-answer sessions.
Business leaders weren’t the only curious minds in attendance at the Cleantech Symposium. Students interested in entrepreneurship or environmental sustainability sat in on sessions to glean knowledge from current industry pioneers.
“Hearing the entrepreneurial experiences of others encouraged me in my own entrepreneurial aspirations to keep on learning, communicating and advocating for myself and my businesses as a true entrepreneur does,” agricultural education major Tania Guadalupe Rios said. “Hearing them refer to failure as a good thing and as an essential part of the entrepreneurial journey has given me even more motivation to continue developing my passion for entrepreneurship.”
Students like Rios, who also competed in FABricate, aren’t wasting any time when it comes to innovating for the future. As part of the symposium, graduate and undergraduate students were invited to share their research in a poster competition. Poster award winners were:
Undergraduate winners
First place: Caroline Solomon, Department of Agricultural and Applied Economics
Second place: Lauren Pike, Department of Agricultural Leadership, Education and Communication
Third place: James Winston Cornish, Department of Entomology
Graduate winners
First place: Twinkle Roy, Department of Agricultural and Applied Economics
Second place: Srijana Thapa Magar, Department of Horticulture
Third place: Anish Subedi, Department of Crop and Soil Sciences
“I’m not worried about the next generation of leaders — at UGA, I’ve had the opportunity to work with a number of students who are bright, thoughtful and creative when considering how we can solve some of the most pressing issues facing our world today,” Rhodes said.
For more on the Cleantech Symposium, visit newswire.caes.uga.edu. To learn about innovation at CAES, check out leadinginnovation.caes.uga.edu. | https://www.albanyherald.com/features/can-tech-save-the-world/article_0d691baa-ca42-11ec-a483-5b6a9870a05e.html | 2022-05-02T20:06:02Z |
CEDARHURST, N.Y., July 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The securities litigation law firm of Kuznicki Law PLLC issues this alert to shareholders of Pegasystems Inc. (NasdaqGS: PEGA), if they purchased the Company's shares between May 29, 2020 and May 9, 2022, inclusive (the "Class Period"). Shareholders have until July 18, 2022 to file lead plaintiff applications in the securities class action lawsuit.
Shareholders are encouraged to contact us at https://kclasslaw.com/cases/securities/nasdaqgs-pega/, by calling toll-free at 1-833-835-1495 or by email (dk@kclasslaw.com).
Kuznicki Law PLLC is committed to ensuring that companies adhere to responsible business practices and engage in good corporate citizenship. The firm seeks recovery on behalf of investors who incurred losses when false and/or misleading statements or the omission of material information by a Company lead to artificial inflation of the Company's stock. Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.
CONTACT:
Kuznicki Law PLLC
Daniel Kuznicki, Esq.
445 Central Avenue, Suite 344
Cedarhurst, NY 11516
Email: dk@kclasslaw.com
Phone: (347) 696-1134
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SOURCE Kuznicki Law PLLC | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/07/14/filing-deadline-kuznicki-law-pllc-announces-class-action-behalf-shareholders-pegasystems-inc-pega/ | 2022-07-14T03:46:53Z |
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