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Man arrested after shooting at postal worker over stolen mail claims, authorities say
EL PASO COUNTY, Colo. (KKTV/Gray News) - Colorado authorities say a man is facing charges after reportedly shooting at a postal worker.
KKTV reports Stephen Teague was arrested on Thursday after police responded to a neighborhood regarding someone shooting a gun outside of a home.
According to the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office, Teague is accused of shooting at two people, including a U.S. Postal Service employee.
Authorities said Teague, a homeowner, believed someone was stealing his mail, and a contracted employee of the Postal Service was making deliveries in the neighborhood that day.
The sheriff’s office reported no injuries in the incident, but Teague was charged with felony menacing with a deadly weapon and misdemeanor menacing.
According to online court records, Teague did not appear to have a criminal history in Colorado.
Copyright 2022 KKTV via Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved. | https://www.mysuncoast.com/2022/09/17/man-arrested-after-shooting-postal-worker-over-stolen-mail-claims-authorities-say/ | 2022-09-17T01:36:29Z |
VALLEY FORGE, Pa., Aug. 29, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Vanguard today announced that it has added Vanguard Fixed Income Group as an advisor to Vanguard High-Yield Corporate Fund. Vanguard's high-yield credit team will manage about one-third of the portfolio with Wellington Management Company LLP continuing to manage the remainder of the fund. Additionally, Elizabeth Shortsleeve of Wellington Management has been added as a co-portfolio manager.
"We have invested heavily in our high-yield corporate credit team by adding deeply experienced and talented investment professionals and new capabilities," said Sara Devereux, global head of Vanguard Fixed Income Group. "Expanding our scope to the High-Yield Corporate Fund capitalizes on the high-yield team's positive contributions to Vanguard's corporate credit funds."
Vanguard High-Yield Corporate Fund was introduced in 1978 to provide fixed income investors with a low-cost, diversified portfolio of below-investment-grade corporate bonds. The investment approach and philosophy of Vanguard Fixed Income Group will complement that of Wellington Management, which has managed the fund since inception and successfully navigated four decades of credit cycles on behalf of the fund's investors. The fund's overall investment philosophy will remain unchanged and is further reinforced by the addition of Vanguard Fixed Income Group. Senior portfolio manager Michael Chang will lead the Vanguard high-yield team in managing the firm's portion of the fund.
Distinctive fixed income expertise
For more than 40 years, Vanguard Fixed Income Group has distinguished itself with deep investment capabilities, disciplined security selection processes, and rigorous risk management techniques, resulting in consistent, long-term outperformance.1 Vanguard continues to develop its active bond portfolio management capabilities and provides a carefully curated and enduring lineup that has offered long-term value and met evolving investor needs. Most recently, Vanguard introduced Vanguard Core-Plus Bond Fund, a broadly diversified, single-fund, core fixed income portfolio designed for investors who are more comfortable with slightly higher risk in their fixed income allocation and the potential to outperform through active management.
Wellington Management is Vanguard's longest-standing external advisor and manages approximately $400 billion in assets across 36 Vanguard mandates globally. The firm's tenured high-yield team and their long-term, higher-quality approach to investing in the high-yield market have served investors well for more than four decades. Ms. Shortsleeve leads the high-yield credit analyst team at Wellington Management and will join existing portfolio manager Michael Hong, who has managed the fund since 2008.
About Vanguard
Founded in 1975, Vanguard is one of the world's leading investment management companies. The firm offers investments, advice, and retirement services to individual investors, institutions, and financial professionals. Vanguard operates under a unique, investor-owned structure where Vanguard fund shareholders own the funds, which in turn own Vanguard. As such, Vanguard adheres to a simple purpose: To take a stand for all investors, to treat them fairly, and to give them the best chance for investment success. For more information, visit vanguard.com.
1 For the five-year period ending June 30, 2022, 51 out of 51 Vanguard active bond funds outperformed their peer group averages. For the 10-year period ending June 30, 2022, 44 out of 44 Vanguard active bond funds outperformed their peer group averages. Results will vary for other time periods. Only funds with a minimum five- or 10-year history were included in the comparisons. (Source: Lipper, a Thomson Reuters Company). Note that the competitive performance data shown represent past performance, which is not a guarantee of future results, and that all investments are subject to risks. For the most recent performance, visit our website at vanguard.com/performance.
For more information about Vanguard funds, visit vanguard.com to obtain a prospectus or, if available, a summary prospectus. Investment objectives, risks, charges, expenses, and other important information about a fund are contained in the prospectus; read and consider it carefully before investing.
All investing is subject to risk, including the possible loss of the money you invest. Diversification does not ensure a profit or protect against a loss.
Bond funds are subject to the risk that an issuer will fail to make payments on time, and that bond prices will decline because of rising interest rates or negative perceptions of an issuer's ability to make payments. Investments in bonds are subject to interest rate, credit, and inflation risk. High-yield bonds generally have medium- and lower-range credit quality ratings and are therefore subject to a higher level of credit risk than bonds with higher credit quality ratings.
Investments in securities issued by non-U.S. companies are subject to risks including country/regional risk and currency risk. These risks are especially high in emerging markets.
Vanguard Marketing Corporation, Distributor.
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SOURCE Vanguard | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/08/29/vanguard-fixed-income-group-added-high-yield-corporate-fund/ | 2022-08-29T14:36:15Z |
MENLO PARK, Calif., July 26, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Global talent solutions and business consulting firm Robert Half (NYSE: RHI) has been named to Forbes' list of America's Best Employers for Women for the fourth consecutive year. This prestigious list ranks large employers based on an independent survey of more than 50,000 U.S. workers, including more than 30,000 women. Respondents rated their employer on several attributes, including workplace conditions, potential for development, company image and issues that support gender equality, such as parental leave, family support, flexibility and pay equity.
"We are committed to supporting the women who make up more than half of our global workforce and who choose to build their careers with us," said M. Keith Waddell, president and chief executive officer of Robert Half. "Diversity and inclusion are critical to the success of our business and this recognition acknowledges our dedication to creating and maintaining an equitable workplace."
Robert Half supports the Women's Empowerment Principles, a joint initiative of the UN Global Compact and UN Women. Learn more about the company's social responsibility efforts at roberthalf.com/esg-report.
About Robert Half
Robert Half is the world's first and largest specialized talent solutions and business consulting firm that connects opportunities at great companies with highly skilled job seekers. Robert Half offers contract and permanent placement solutions and is the parent company of Protiviti®, a global consulting firm. Visit roberthalf.com and download the company's award-winning mobile app.
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SOURCE Robert Half | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/07/26/robert-half-named-forbes-list-americas-best-employers-women-2022/ | 2022-07-26T16:52:50Z |
Democrats turn focus to abortion after months of midterm message uncertainty
By Lauren Fox, Manu Raju and Ted Barrett, CNN
Democrats had been struggling to find their midterm footing amid bad polls and rising inflation — but now are rallying around an issue they hope will turn around their fortunes: Abortion.
With no chance of successfully passing a bill, they are pleading with voters to send them more senators to change filibuster rules and codify a woman’s abortion rights.
But they face a daunting environment nonetheless.
“We will vote to protect a woman’s right to choose,” Majority Leader Chuck Schumer promised on the Senate floor Tuesday despite the fact Democrats don’t have the votes to pass such a law.
But in the wake of the stunning Supreme Court leak that showed a majority of justices voting to overturn the landmark abortion decision, Democrats are grappling with the tenuous reality of their 50-50 Senate: a fractured majority that leaves them no options to enshrining abortion rights in law and instead gives them only the power to keep it in the spotlight ahead of the November elections. While some Democratic candidates are calling on senators to expand the Supreme Court or gut the filibuster to protect Roe vs. Wade, neither of those options stands a chance of passing in the 50-50 Senate.
“The 50-50 Senate sucks,” Sen. Mazie Hirono, a Democrat from Hawaii, lamented Tuesday, adding it was her goal to try and get more Democrats elected that would back abortion rights in the future.
For now, leaders are looking to force votes on abortion rights that will put members on the record and keep the issue in the headlines. It may be the best — and only — path forward for a Democratic Party that has struggled to keep voters enthusiastic ahead of the midterms.
“We are discussing this point what our next move is,” said Senate Judiciary Chairman Dick Durbin, a Democrat from Illinois. “There is no decision about expanding the court in the early stages here, but there is a discussion about floor action.”
But floor action will also expose long-established rifts in Democratic ranks. Sen. Joe Manchin, a Democrat from West Virginia, doesn’t back a law that codifies abortion rights for women. In February, he voted with Republicans against advancing the Women’s Health Protection Act, which protects the rights of women to access abortion in the US. And both Manchin and Arizona Democratic Sen. Kyrsten Sinema reiterated Tuesday they would not back any action to gut the filibuster for abortion or any other issue.
Democrats still see a path, however, to use the Supreme Court decision to turn out their base at the polls. Democrats are hopeful it could be a swift turn of fate for a party that has been struggling to rally behind a singular and cohesive message ever since efforts to pass the President’s sweeping social agenda plan faltered in December.
“The simple fact is that poll after poll show that Americans do not want to overturn Roe v. Wade,” said Connecticut Democratic Sen. Richard Blumenthal. “I think it will spark outrage, anger, astonishment and a lot of votes.”
Sen. Chris Murphy, another Democrat from Connecticut, argued that after decades of fighting to overturn Roe, Republicans may be on the losing side of the argument.
“Republicans are coming to terms with the fact that their position on reproductive choice is widely out of step with the American public,” he said. “This is going to be a deeply unpopular decision. It is going to have significant ramifications for Republicans.”
Republicans, however, say they believe overturning Roe is still the right thing to do.
“I really do believe that abortion is wrong, and I think most people in America don’t want to see unlimited abortion,” said Sen. Mike Rounds, a South Dakota Republican.
Florida Sen. Rick Scott, the chairman of the National Republican Senatorial Committee, said he didn’t think the issue would be as galvanizing as Democrats believed it was.
“We’ll see. I think when you talk to people, the big issue they are dealing with right now is inflation, crime, the border, stuff like that,” Scott said.
Democrats say it’s not just abortion that is at stake in the upcoming election. In a series of interviews Tuesday, multiple Democrats pointed out they believed Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito’s draft opinion struck at the heart of privacy protections that had been enshrined in decades of precedent.
“If this turns out to be the opinion of the court and it’s issued, it could have a major impact on the outcome of this election,” Durbin said. “When you go to an issue as fundamental as privacy and an individual’s right to privacy, control of their bodies and their ability to make their own decision and the court just basically eliminates it, it is certainly a mobilizing factor in the next election.”
The-CNN-Wire
™ & © 2022 Cable News Network, Inc., a WarnerMedia Company. All rights reserved.
CNN’s Morgan Rimmer and Ali Zaslav contributed to this report. | https://localnews8.com/politics/cnn-us-politics/2022/05/03/democrats-turn-focus-to-abortion-after-months-of-midterm-message-uncertainty/ | 2022-05-03T21:18:07Z |
MONTREAL and CHARLOTTE, N.C., June 2, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Milestone Pharmaceuticals Inc. (Nasdaq: MIST), a biopharmaceutical company focused on the development and commercialization of innovative cardiovascular medicines, today announced that Joseph Oliveto, President and Chief Executive Officer, will participate in a fireside chat at the Jefferies Healthcare Conference on Thursday, June 9, 2022 at 1:30pm ET in New York, NY.
A live webcast of the fireside chat can be accessed in the News & Events section of Milestone's website at www.milestonepharma.com. An archived replay of the fireside chat will be available on the same website for approximately 90 days following the presentation.
Milestone Pharmaceuticals Inc. (Nasdaq: MIST), is a biopharmaceutical company focused on the development and commercialization of innovative cardiovascular medicines. Milestone's lead product candidate etripamil is currently in a Phase 3 clinical-stage program for the treatment of paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT) and in a Phase 2 proof-of-concept trial for the treatment of patients with atrial fibrillation with rapid ventricular rate (AFib-RVR). Milestone Pharmaceuticals operates in Canada and the United States. For more information, visit www.milestonepharma.com and follow Milestone on Twitter at @MilestonePharma.
David Pitts
Argot Partners
212-600-1902
david@argotpartners.com
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SOURCE Milestone Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/06/02/milestone-pharmaceuticals-present-jefferies-healthcare-conference/ | 2022-06-02T11:26:32Z |
LIVERPOOL, England (AP) — Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp said he expects the team’s fans to show “the right respect” when a period of silence is held before the Champions League match against Ajax at Anfield on Tuesday in honor of Queen Elizabeth II.
Liverpool supporters booed the national anthem — which was formerly “God Save the Queen” — when it was played ahead of the FA Cup final in May and the Community Shield in July because of what is perceived to be a long-held opposition toward the establishment.
There have been periods of silence before sporting fixtures and events around the country since the death of the queen at the age of 96 on Thursday, and UEFA on Monday granted a request by Liverpool for one to take place before the Ajax game. It will be Liverpool’s first game since the queen’s death, with the team’s home match against Wolverhampton on Saturday having been called off as a market of respect.
Klopp said it would be “the right thing to do” for Liverpool to make the tribute and referred to how his club’s fans conducted themselves during a Premier League match against fierce rival Manchester United in April, which took place a day after the death of one of Cristiano Ronaldo’s new-born twins.
There was a show of support from both teams’ fans for Ronaldo, with Liverpool’s supporters making a brief rendition of their club anthem — “You’ll Never Walk Alone” — amid applause around Anfield.
“I don’t think our people need any advice from me for showing respect,” Klopp said. “There are plenty of examples where people show exactly the right respect.
“One, surprisingly, and I was really proud of that moment, was when we played Man United after a very sad situation in Cristiano Ronaldo’s family. That is what I expect. For me, it is clear it is what we have to do.”
Liverpool fans booed the national anthem in the 1980s and during what some refer to as the “managed decline” of the city during the tenure of the Conservative Party-led government. Deepening those feelings was the failing of the government following the Hillsborough Stadium disaster and many from the left-leaning city continue to feel let down by the state.
Liverpool fans jeered the national anthem and the introduction of Prince William, the queen’s grandson, before the FA Cup final against Chelsea.
Klopp was asked how he felt when he heard about the death of the queen.
“I’m 55 years old and she’s the only queen I ever knew,” the German coach said. “As far as I know — I don’t know her — but the things we have seen of her, she was a really warm, nice, beloved lady. That’s all I need to know.
“Because of my personal experience — and it’s not what I think, it’s what people think who are much closer to her — I respect their grief a lot and that’s why I will show my respect tomorrow night.”
The Liverpool and Ajax players will wear black armbands for the match and flags at Anfield have been lowered to half-staff. The club crests on all social media platforms have changed to black and white, representing the colors of the mourning period in Britain.
___
More AP soccer: https://apnews.com/hub/soccer and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports | https://cw33.com/sports/ap-sports/ap-klopp-expects-liverpool-fans-to-respect-tribute-to-the-queen/ | 2022-09-12T23:57:57Z |
ALBANY -- Boots Wingate, a long-time resident of Albany and her granddaughter, Emilie Wingate of Athens, who currently is studying art at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, spent a lot of their confined time during the COVID pandemic writing and illustrating a children’s book.
The book has been published by Archway Publishing, and on Friday, several friends of Boots’ are hosting a "Sip and See and Book Signing" at the Albany Museum of Art.
The book, “The Painting Hopper,” is the story of Kai, a curious bunny who lives in the cool greens and blues of his water-color home and his adventures as he goes through four paintings by master artists.
The beautifully illustrated book is being released at a perfect time to add to a child’s Easter basket. The Sip and See and book signing for “The Painting Hopper” is scheduled Friday, from 10 a.m.-noon at the Albany Museum of Art, 611 Meadowlark Drive, and is open to all.
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accounts, the history behind an article. | https://www.albanyherald.com/entertainment/albany-resident-granddaughter-plan-book-signing-event-at-museum-of-art/article_bfa7fa9c-b297-11ec-835a-f315d81df745.html | 2022-04-02T17:27:47Z |
NYON, Switzerland, April 1, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Hublot and Takashi Murakami are pushing back the boundaries of artistic expression by presenting two NFT digital works. These are inspired by the Hublot Classic Fusion Takashi Murakami All Black and the Classic Fusion Takashi Murakami Sapphire Rainbow, the first two watches launched jointly by the Swiss watchmaker and the great Japanese artist in 2021. These two limited editions of 200 and 100 pieces respectively were sold out in just a few days.
"Our collaboration with Takashi Murakami has led us to digital art, a field of expression in which Hublot has become a pioneer on the watchmaking planet. From now on, NFTs will be an integral part of our 'Hublot loves art' artistic world."
RICARDO GUADALUPE
HUBLOT CEO
"Continuing my artistic collaboration with Hublot by using new forms of artistic expression such as NFTs seems to be the natural way to develop our relationship. By looking forward."
TAKASHI MURAKAMI
This new phase in the artistic collaboration developed with Takashi Murakami is in the form of two static NFTs featuring the smiling flower with its mischievous smile, the iconic theme of Murakami's work and his Superflat artistic movement. The first NFT based on the All Black version, is a limited edition of 216, while the second, which will recreate the colours of the highly exclusive Sapphire Rainbow version, will be a limited edition of 108. These NFT digital works are mainly intended for the current owners of these two limited-edition watches, to whom they will be offered under certain conditions explained under (Hublot.com). The current owners of these watches shall actively claim the NFT as from 1st April 2022 and no later than 25th April 2022. If they claim and wish, these watch owners may then receive their free NFT in their eWallet. In May, Hublot will then open a page on a decentralised non-fungible token marketplace, where owners may exchange their NFTs.
The launch of the Hublot Classic Fusion Takashi Murakami NFTs will be supported by a very arty promotional campaign, based on the principles of guerrilla marketing. After being presented at Watches & Wonders, the watchmaking fair in Geneva, posters will go up secretively in London and New York and giant light projections will illuminate iconic buildings.
A limited number of these NFT's will be available to the public in May 2022. Stay tuned!
HUBLOT
Founded in Switzerland in 1980, Hublot is defined by its innovation, which began with the highly original combination of gold and rubber. This "Art of Fusion" stems from the imagination of its visionary Honorary Chairman, Jean-Claude Biver, and has been driven forward by CEO Ricardo Guadalupe since 2012.
The release of the iconic, multi-award-winning Big Bang in 2005 paved the way for new flagship collections (Classic Fusion, Spirit of Big Bang), with complications ranging from the simple to the highly sophisticated, establishing the extraordinary DNA of the Swiss watchmaking house and ensuring its impressive growth.
Keen to preserve its traditional and cutting-edge expertise, and guided by its philosophy to "Be First, Different and Unique", the Swiss watchmaker is consistently ahead of the curve, through its innovations in materials (scratch-resistant Magic Gold, ceramics in vibrant colours, sapphire), and the creation of Manufacture movements (Unico, Meca-10, Tourbillon).
Hublot is fully committed to creating a Haute Horlogerie brand with a visionary future: a future which is fused with the key events of our times (FIFA World Cup™, UEFA Champions League, UEFA EURO™) and the finest ambassadors our era has to offer (Chiara Ferragni, Pelé, Kylian Mbappé, Usain Bolt, Novak Djokovic).
Discover the Hublot universe at our network of boutiques located in key cities across the globe: Geneva, Paris, London, New York, Hong Kong, Dubai, Tokyo, Singapore, Zurich and at HUBLOT.com
Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1778657/Hublot_NFT_1.jpg
Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1778658/Hublot_NFT_2.jpg
Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1765293/Hublot_Logo.jpg
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SOURCE Hublot SA | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/04/01/hublot-launches-two-nfts-with-takashi-murakami/ | 2022-04-01T11:27:23Z |
Hundreds of fans to be given away in Topeka on Tue.
TOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) - As part of an effort to help people without access to air-conditioning this summer, The Salvation Army and Evergy will be donating 300 fans to Topekans. The giveaway will take place 9:00 a.m. June 28 at The Topeka Salvation Army on 1320 SE 6th Street.
Evergy’s contribution is part of 2,600 fans which will be distributed throughout all the communities it serves. The fans will be distributed on a first-come, first-serve basis and each household will be eligible for one fan. Proof of address and identification are required.
Fans help relieve sweltering summer heat, but some days finding an air-conditioned space is the safest option. Stay aware of heat safety tips and signs of heat illness:
• Slow down, stay indoors and avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest part of the day.
• Take frequent breaks if working outdoors.
• Check on family, friends and neighbors who do not have air conditioning, who spend much of their time alone or who are more likely to be affected by the heat.
• Check on animals frequently to ensure that they are not suffering from the heat. Ensure they have water and a shady place to rest.
• Eat small meals and eat more often.
• Avoid extreme temperature changes.
• Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing.
For further questions, contact The Salvation Army at 785-223-9648.
Copyright 2022 WIBW. All rights reserved. | https://www.wibw.com/2022/06/27/hundreds-fans-be-given-away-topeka-tue/ | 2022-06-27T15:56:53Z |
LIVONIA , Mich., Aug. 24, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- XanEdu, a custom publishing company working with the K-12 and higher education markets, is excited to announce a new Business Suite of titles, including Economics and Statistics courses for their customizable FlexEd courseware platform.
XanEdu FlexEd delivers an affordable, complete courseware solution that enhances student outcomes in any learning environment. The platform compliments quality, peer reviewed OER content, such as OpenStax, to guide students through the course in an easy-to-follow learning path. With unique features such as case studies that can be added to a course and used as case-based learning, lesson assessments, and engaging video content, the new Business Suite promotes career readiness and inspires ethical approaches to the field of business and management. By centralizing real-world issues, students are empowered to apply their understanding through proven pedagogical methods.
"Having content that is developed by professors and experts in the business field not only engages students but strengthens their skill set as they pursue personal and professional career trajectories," notes Beth Firenze, Higher Education Marketing Director, XanEdu. "Knowing that FlexEd courses are 80+% less expensive than alternatives means more students will have access to these new materials."
The suite includes the following Business, Economics, and Statistics courses:
- Introduction to Business
- Principles of Management
- Introductory Statistics
- Introductory Business Statistics
- Principles of Economics
- Principles of Microeconomics
- Principles of Macroeconomics
With the addition of 7 business, economic, and statistics titles, this new Suite further enhances the FlexEd platform, which contains a wide range of materials and activities that instructors can use to create their own courseware that match syllabi, instructional methods, and modalities.
Today, dozens of colleges and universities have adopted FlexEd to help deliver an affordable, complete courseware solution that enhances student outcomes in any learning environment. This new Suite aims to expand such collaboration.
More information can be found at www.xanedu.com/flexed and www.xanedu.com, or by contacting the XanEdu team at HigherEd@xanedu.com.
XanEdu FlexEd courseware is used by thousands of students across colleges and universities large and small. It is an effective mix of blended/hybrid and fully online settings. All courseware is editable and can be used with, or in place of, a traditional textbook – at a substantially lower cost – supporting affordability initiatives while improving engagement and student performance. This easy-to-use platform adapts in order to simplify learning for both instructors and students.
XanEdu has been increasing student engagement and enhancing learning outcomes since 1999 by delivering innovative solutions across the education spectrum. We are committed to advancing the education tools for tomorrow through innovative products and services that meet students' evolving learning styles. We incorporate cutting edge technology while maintaining our commitment to affordability and accessibility. XanEdu is a privately held company headquartered in Livonia, MI.
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SOURCE XanEdu Publishing, Inc. | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/08/24/xanedu-announces-new-business-suite-flexed-courseware-platform/ | 2022-08-24T20:12:44Z |
NEW YORK (AP) — A former CIA software engineer was convicted Wednesday of federal charges accusing him of the biggest theft of classified information in CIA history.
Joshua Schulte, who chose to defend himself at a New York City retrial, had told jurors in closing arguments that the CIA and FBI made him a scapegoat for an embarrassing public release of a trove of CIA secrets by WikiLeaks in 2017.
Schulte watched without visibly reacting as U.S. District Judge Jesse M. Furman announced the guilty verdict on nine counts, which was reached in mid-afternoon by a jury that had deliberated since Friday.
The so-called Vault 7 leak revealed how the CIA hacked Apple and Android smartphones in overseas spying operations, and efforts to turn internet-connected televisions into listening devices. Prior to his arrest, Schulte had helped create the hacking tools as a coder at the agency’s headquarters in Langley, Virginia.
A sentencing date was not immediately set because Schulte still awaits trial on charges of possessing and transporting child pornography. He has pleaded not guilty.
Attorney Sabrina Shroff, who advised Schulte during the trial, told Schulte’s mother after the verdict that the outcome was a “kick to the gut, the brain and heart.” It was unclear if Shroff was expressing her own sentiments or Schulte’s.
In his closing, Schulte claimed he was singled out even though “hundreds of people had access to (the information). … Hundreds of people could have stolen it.”
“The government’s case is riddled with reasonable doubt,” he added. “There’s simply no motive here.”
Prosecutors alleged the 33-year-old Schulte was motivated to orchestrate the leak because he believed the CIA had disrespected him by ignoring his complaints about the work environment. So he tried “to burn to the ground” the very work he had helped the agency to create, they said.
Assistant U.S. Attorney David Denton encouraged jurors to consider evidence of an attempted cover-up, including a list of chores Schulte drew up that had an entry reading, “Delete suspicious emails.”
U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said in a statement that Schulte was convicted of “one of the most brazen and damaging acts of espionage in American history.”
Williams said Schulte, motivated by resentment toward the CIA, leaked to the public and to U.S. adversaries some of the nation’s “most valuable intelligence-gathering cyber tools used to battle terrorist organizations and other malign influences around the globe.”
The prosecutor said Schulte knew the leak would render the CIA’s tools “essentially useless, having a devastating effect on our intelligence community by providing critical intelligence to those who wish to do us harm.”
While behind bars awaiting trial, prosecutors said he continued his crimes by trying to leak additional classified materials as he carried on an “information war” against the government.
Once the jury left the courtroom for deliberations, the judge complimented Schulte on his closing argument.
“Mr. Schulte, that was impressively done,” Furman said. “Depending on what happens here, you may have a future as a defense lawyer.”
A mistrial was declared at Schulte’s original 2020 trial after jurors deadlocked on the most serious counts, including illegal gathering and transmission of national defense information. Schulte told the judge last year that he wanted to serve as his own attorney for the retrial.
He has not announced whether he wants to represent himself at his next trial, which involves allegations that after leaving the CIA, Schulte moved to New York from Virginia with a computer that contained images and videos of child pornography he had downloaded from the internet from 2009 to March 2017.
Schulte has been held behind bars without bail since 2018. Last year, he complained in court papers that he was a victim of cruel and unusual punishment, awaiting the two trials in solitary confinement inside a vermin-infested cell of a jail unit where inmates are treated like “caged animals.” | https://cw33.com/news/ap-top-headlines/ex-cia-engineer-convicted-in-massive-theft-of-secret-info/ | 2022-07-14T12:11:36Z |
LOS ANGELES, April 4, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- On April 6th, the humble tomato has its day. While tomatoes are not in season in this part of the hemisphere, we can still appreciate all that the terrific tomato has to offer, and enjoy the best quality canned tomatoes from the GREATEST TOMATOES FROM EUROPE!
Preserving fresh tomatoes ensures that their flavor, nutrients and freshness are kept intact so that your dishes reflect the original quality that comes from under the European sun.
Use those exceptional canned tomatoes to celebrate special times such as the upcoming Easter holiday.
Easter Holiday Recipes You Can Try ~
Meat Lasagna - This Italian recipe for lasagna will be the star of your Easter meal. Follow the directions for spectacular results! Get the recipe here: https://greatesttomatoesfromeurope.com/recipes/meat-lasagna/
Fusilli with Ricotta - want a meatless meal for your holiday celebration? Not only is this creamy pasta dish delicious, but it comes together in no time! Get the recipe here: https://greatesttomatoesfromeurope.com/recipes/fusilli-with-ricotta/
Sweet Tomato and Chocolate Cake - although we view tomatoes as a vegetable, it is actually a fruit! So this unique chocolate cake is a great choice for a healthier dessert. Get the recipe here: https://greatesttomatoesfromeurope.com/recipes/sweet-tomato-and-chocolate-cake/
GREATEST TOMATOES FROM EUROPE is not a specific brand, but rather, a campaign by ANICAV -- The Italian Association of Canned Tomato Producers, co-financed by the European Commission -- promoting European preserved (canned) tomatoes. www.greatesttomatoesfromeurope.com
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SOURCE Greatest Tomatoes from Europe | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/04/04/national-tomato-day-highlights-star-canned-tomatoes-easter-holiday-recipes-try/ | 2022-04-05T01:24:34Z |
– Preliminary results of second cohort in the first-in-human Phase 1a allow Company to proceed to 32 mg/kg dose of WP1122 in third cohort toward establishing maximum tolerated dose (MTD) –
– Multiple ascending dose (MAD) cohort to commence after completion of at least 3 successful SAD dosing cohorts –
HOUSTON, July 8, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Moleculin Biotech, Inc., (Nasdaq: MBRX) ("Moleculin" or the "Company"), a clinical stage pharmaceutical company with a broad portfolio of drug candidates targeting highly resistant tumors and viruses, today reported preliminary results from the second cohort of the Company's first-in-human Phase 1a study of WP1122. This cohort consisted of 8 subjects dosed with 16 mg/kg or placebo in the dose escalation trial evaluating the safety and pharmacokinetics (PK) of WP1122 in healthy volunteers in the United Kingdom (UK). Based on the overall results in Cohort 2, the Company deemed the cohort dose safe and well-tolerated and began its SAD Cohort 3 with a dose escalation to 32 mg/kg.
The Phase 1a, first-in-human, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, overlapping SAD and MAD is investigating the effects of WP1122 administered as an oral solution in healthy human volunteers. It is the first step in a planned investigation of WP1122 for the treatment of COVID-19. Dose escalation will take place in sequential SAD cohorts, and MAD will start as soon as SAD has successfully completed at least 3 dosing cohorts. This study in healthy volunteers will explore safety and PK, and subsequent antiviral clinical development is expected to be in patients infected with SARS-CoV-2 to further evaluate safety and establish a favorable risk/benefit profile. The Company expects to enroll approximately 80 subjects in this trial.
Walter Klemp, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Moleculin commented, "We continue to be encouraged by the safety data demonstrated by WP1122 in the SAD portion of our first-in-human Phase 1a study of WP1122. With two of the SAD cohorts now completed with promising preliminary results, we are working to enroll and complete Cohort 3 at 32 mg/kg in order to proceed to the MAD phase of the trial toward establishing a maximum tolerated dose. To date, WP1122 has demonstrated no dose escalating stopping criteria, and we look forward to taking the next step in studying the potential of WP1122 for the treatment of certain viral diseases, including COVID-19, and cancers."
During the SAD portion of this study, dose escalation will proceed up to a maximum dose of 64 mg/kg as a single dose. Dosing of WP1122 began in SAD at 8 mg/kg as a single dose and has escalated in two-fold increments (i.e., to 16 and now to 32 mg/kg as single doses, etc.) in subsequent cohorts. Dosing of WP1122 in the MAD cohorts will start after a dose of 32 mg/kg has been shown to be safe in the single dose cohort. The first dose administered in MAD will be 16 mg/kg every 12 hours (32 mg/kg/day) for 7 days and dosing in the second MAD cohort will escalate to 32 mg/kg every 12 hours (64 mg/kg/day) for 7 days.
For more information about the study, please visit clinicaltrials.gov and reference identifier NCT05195723. Moleculin is also in the process of identifying additional countries where potential future Phase 2 COVID-19 clinical studies could occur.
WP1122 was developed as a 2-DG prodrug to provide a more favorable pharmacological profile and was found to have greater potency than 2-DG alone in preclinical models where tumor cells require higher glycolytic activity than normal cells. WP1122 has also been shown to have a greater antiviral effect than 2-DG against SARS-CoV-2 in MRC-5 cells in culture. The improved pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) profile of WP1122 compared to 2-DG was noted in female mice following oral dosing at equimolar (i.e., equivalent levels of 2-DG) doses.
While the Company is in the process of identifying additional countries where potential future Phase 2 COVID-19 clinical studies might occur, the volatility and unpredictability of COVID-19 incidence in various countries may limit the ability to recruit certain subjects and could make it infeasible to conduct a Phase 2 clinical trial in a given country. Additionally, Moleculin recently received IND clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to initiate a Phase 1 study of WP1122 for the treatment of Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM). The Company is seeking collaborators with the intent to commence clinical trials of WP1122 in cancer indications including GBM, pancreatic cancer and others.
Moleculin Biotech, Inc. is a clinical stage pharmaceutical company focused on the development of a broad portfolio of drug candidates for the treatment of highly resistant tumors and viruses. The Company's lead program, Annamycin, is a next-generation anthracycline designed to avoid multidrug resistance mechanisms with little to no cardiotoxicity. Annamycin is currently in development for the treatment of relapsed or refractory acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and soft tissue sarcoma (STS) lung metastases.
Additionally, the Company is developing WP1066, an Immune/Transcription Modulator designed to be capable of inhibiting p-STAT3 and other oncogenic transcription factors while also stimulating a natural immune response, targeting brain tumors, pancreatic and other cancers; and WP1220, an analog to WP1066, for the topical treatment of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma. Moleculin is also engaged in the development of a portfolio of antimetabolites, including WP1122, for the potential treatment of COVID-19 and other viruses, as well as cancer indications including brain tumors, pancreatic and other cancers.
For more information about the Company, please visit www.moleculin.com and connect on Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook.
Some of the statements in this release are forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, which involve risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements in this press release include, without limitation, whether the results of Moleculin's preclinical models can be replicated in human trials, Moleculin's ability to conduct a potential future Phase 2 COVID-19 clinical study, Moleculin's ability to identify and attract collaborators for additional clinical trials of WP1122, and the ability for WP1122 to be shown safe and effective in humans. Although Moleculin believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable as of the date made, expectations may prove to have been materially different from the results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Moleculin has attempted to identify forward-looking statements by terminology including 'believes,' 'estimates,' 'anticipates,' 'expects,' 'plans,' 'projects,' 'intends,' 'potential,' 'may,' 'could,' 'might,' 'will,' 'should,' 'approximately' or other words that convey uncertainty of future events or outcomes to identify these forward-looking statements. These statements are only predictions and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors, including those discussed under Item 1A. "Risk Factors" in our most recently filed Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") and updated from time to time in our Form 10-Q filings and in our other public filings with the SEC. Any forward-looking statements contained in this release speak only as of its date. We undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained in this release to reflect events or circumstances occurring after its date or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.
Investor Contact:
JTC Team, LLC
Jenene Thomas
(833) 475-8247
MBRX@jtcir.com
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SOURCE Moleculin Biotech, Inc. | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/07/08/moleculin-announces-completion-second-single-ascending-dose-sad-cohort-phase-1a-clinical-trial-wp1122-uk/ | 2022-07-08T13:15:58Z |
XI'AN, China, July 19, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- LONGi's Hi-MO 5 modules, based on 182mm cells, have now been delivered to clients in 94 countries, with total shipments exceeding 30GW and the company's design philosophy validated by the product's popularity with customers.
Hi-MO 5 modules are not only ideal for utility-scale power plants, but are also widely applicable for the DG market. In depth analysis suggests that Hi-MO 5 is widely considered to represent the optimal product based on size, its compatibility with the industrial chain, its product value and life cycle reliability.
From the very first Hi-MO 5 module to roll off the production line, to successive cumulative shipment milestones of 10GW, 20GW and now 30GW, LONGi has remained fully committed to bringing the most reliable products to market in order to provide high-efficiency solutions for the development of the 'new power system'.
From Hi-MO 1 to Hi-MO 5, from its debut in the module business to becoming a shipment leader, LONGi has remained focused on customer value and technological innovation and continues to be at the vanguard of industry breakthroughs in order to achieve, with its global customers and partners, the ultimate goal of carbon neutrality.
Milestone review of the LONGi Hi-MO 5 module:
- June 29, 2020 - Hi-MO 5 product release.
- August 8, 2020 - module showcased at SNEC Shanghai.
- September 8, 2020 – first Hi-MO 5 module rolls off production line.
- September 15, 2020 - first shipment contract signed.
- April 28, 2021 – recognized with awards at TÜV Rheinland 'All Quality Matters' solar congress.
- July 21, 2021 – recognized with award at Intersolar Europe.
- November 5, 2021 – global shipments exceed 10GW.
- April 27, 2022 – global shipments exceed 20GW.
- July 15, 2022 – global shipments exceed 30GW.
About LONGi
Founded in 2000, LONGi is committed to being the world's leading solar technology company, focusing on customer-driven value creation for full scenario energy transformation.
Under its mission of 'Utilizing Solar Energy, Building a Green World' and brand philosophy of 'Steadfast and Reliable Technology Leadership', LONGi has dedicated itself to technology innovation and established five business sectors, covering mono silicon wafers, cells and modules, commercial & industrial distributed solar solutions, green energy solutions and hydrogen equipment. The company has honed its capabilities to provide green energy and has, more recently, also embraced green hydrogen products and solutions to support global zero carbon development. www.longi.com/en
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SOURCE LONGi | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/07/20/longi-achieves-new-milestone-30gw-hi-mo-5-module-shipments/ | 2022-07-20T04:51:58Z |
Magnolia Park brings amenity-rich single-family and townhome living to Wake County
RALEIGH, N.C., July 25, 2022 /PRNewswire/ - Mattamy Homes, North America's largest privately owned homebuilder, is thrilled to announce the Grand Opening of Magnolia Park in Garner, North Carolina.
Planned resort-style amenities in this master-planned community include a zero-entry swimming pool and lounge area, playground areas and pocket parks. Numerous green spaces and miles of walking trails within Magnolia Park will connect to adjacent greenways in the future.
Magnolia Park is near 64-acre Lake Benson Park, the Centennial Park Poole Family YMCA and White Oak shopping center. It's close to a variety of dining, shopping, conveniences and entertainment options including Garner Performing Arts Center. Research Triangle Park offers excellent employment and educational opportunities within a 30-mile drive. With easy access to major interstates and the future I-540 interchange, residents will find it easy to explore downtown Raleigh and beyond.
Mattamy Homes is offering 13 floorplans from 4 different product series across Magnolia Park's 544 total homesites. In addition to attractive townhome designs, there will be 30', 40' and 50' single-family floorplans from the Carolina series. These will range from the $300s–600s with a total of 1600–4200+ sq. ft. of living area. Several of these floorplans are being offered for the first time at Magnolia Park, greatly expanding Mattamy's already-generous selection of thoughtful home designs for North Carolina homebuyers.
"The Grand Opening of Magnolia Park is another major achievement for Mattamy Homes," said Bob Wiggins, president of the homebuilder's Raleigh Division. "We're extremely proud of our new floorplans that will debut in this community. Together, these single-family and townhome options offer high value and satisfying style for potential homebuyers in the area."
To represent the considerable variety of these 13 floorplan options, 9 model homes are now under construction — with an anticipated model grand opening later this year. The single-family Lassen, Morgan, Sequoia and Summit models will join the Blayre, Bryce, Claymore and Clifton townhomes, demonstrating Mattamy Homes' range of variety and style for all needs and budgets.
Each floorplan features open-concept living areas with expansive, inspiring kitchens, dining areas and Great Rooms to elevate the everyday lifestyle of our homebuyers. Full-yard sod, 8' full-view rear patio doors and covered patios bring the backyard to life as the perfect place for outdoor activities. Magnolia Park's townhome options will also offer included lawn maintenance.
All Magnolia Park floorplans are HERS certified by an independent third party and ecoSelect certified for high efficiency. They include Healthy Home features such as ecobee® smart thermostats with built-in Amazon Alexa voice service and foil-backed OSB TechShield® Radiant Heat Barrier roof sheathing and are covered by Mattamy's 10-year limited structural warranty.
Magnolia Park will be open for sales July 18 with special grand opening event pricing and incentives. Visitors are encouraged to ask a New Home Counselor for details.
"As always, the best way to experience Mattamy Homes' thoughtful home designs is to visit in person and spend some time looking around," says Donna Kemp, Vice President of Sales for the Raleigh Division. "This is the best way to see for yourself the amount of flexibility, light and superbly balanced space we design into every floorplan. We look forward to seeing many of you here for our Grand Opening and encourage everyone to schedule an appointment to visit Magnolia Park."
Mattamy Homes is the largest privately owned homebuilder in North America, with 40-plus years of history across the United States and Canada. Every year, Mattamy helps more than 8,000 families realize their dream of homeownership. In the United States, the company is represented in 11 markets – Dallas, Charlotte, Raleigh, Phoenix, Tucson, Jacksonville, Orlando (where its US head office is located), Tampa, Sarasota, Naples and Southeast Florida – and in Canada, its communities stretch across the Greater Toronto Area, as well as in Ottawa, Calgary and Edmonton. Visit www.mattamyhomes.com for more information.
Magnolia Park in Wake County, NC offers single-family and townhome living in a master-planned community with resort-style amenities and miles of trails and interconnecting green spaces. The community is served by top-rated Wake County schools including Bryan Road Elementary and the brand-new, state-of-the-art South Garner High School and is less than 5 miles from WakeMed Garner Healthplex.
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SOURCE Mattamy Homes Limited | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/07/25/mattamy-homes-announces-grand-opening-new-master-planned-community-garner-north-carolina/ | 2022-07-25T16:07:05Z |
NIO, Dexcom rise; BlackBerry, Ford fall
NEW YORK (AP) — Stocks that traded heavily or had substantial price changes Friday: NIO, Dexcom rise; BlackBerry, Ford fall.
NEW YORK (AP) — Stocks that traded heavily or had substantial price changes Friday: NIO, Dexcom rise; BlackBerry, Ford fall. | https://localnews8.com/news/ap-national-business/2022/04/01/nio-dexcom-rise-blackberry-ford-fall/ | 2022-04-01T23:01:51Z |
EVANSVILLE, Ind., July 21, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Escalade, Inc. (NASDAQ: ESCA, or the "Company"), a leading manufacturer and distributor of sporting goods and indoor/outdoor recreational equipment, today announced that it will issue second quarter 2022 results before the market opens on Thursday, August 4, 2022.
A conference call will be held Thursday, August 4, 2022, at 11:00 a.m. ET to review the Company's financial results, discuss recent events and conduct a question-and-answer session.
A webcast of the conference call will be available in the Investor Relations section of Escalade's website at www.escaladeinc.com. To listen to a live broadcast, go to the site at least 15 minutes prior to the scheduled start time in order to register, download, and install any necessary audio software.
To participate in the live teleconference:
To listen to a replay of the teleconference, which subsequently will be available through August 18, 2022:
Founded in 1922, and headquartered in Evansville, Indiana, Escalade designs, manufactures, and sells sporting goods, fitness, and indoor/outdoor recreation equipment. Our mission is to connect family and friends creating lasting memories. Leaders in our respective categories, Escalade's brands include Brunswick Billiards®; STIGA® table tennis; Accudart®; RAVE Sports® water recreation; Victory Tailgate® custom games; Onix® pickleball; Goalrilla™ basketball; Lifeline® fitness; Woodplay® playsets; and Bear® Archery. Escalade's products are available online and at leading retailers nationwide. For more information about Escalade's many brands, history, financials, and governance please visit www.escaladeinc.com.
This press release contains forward-looking statements relating to present or future trends or factors that are subject to risks and uncertainties. These risks include, but are not limited to: specific and overall impacts of the COVID-19 global pandemic on Escalade's financial condition and results of operations; the impact of competitive products and pricing; product demand and market acceptance; new product development; Escalade's ability to achieve its business objectives, especially with respect to its Sporting Goods business on which it has chosen to focus; Escalade's ability to successfully achieve the anticipated results of strategic transactions, including the integration of the operations of acquired assets and businesses and of divestitures or discontinuances of certain operations, assets, brands, and products; the continuation and development of key customer, supplier, licensing and other business relationships; Escalade's ability to develop and implement our own direct to consumer e-commerce distribution channel; Escalade's ability to successfully negotiate the shifting retail environment and changes in consumer buying habits; the financial health of our customers; disruptions or delays in our business operations, including without limitation disruptions or delays in our supply chain, arising from political unrest, war, labor strikes, natural disasters, public health crises such as the coronavirus pandemic, and other events and circumstances beyond our control; Escalade's ability to control costs; Escalade's ability to successfully implement actions to lessen the potential impacts of tariffs and other trade restrictions applicable to our products and raw materials, including impacts on the costs of producing our goods, importing products and materials into our markets for sale, and on the pricing of our products; general economic conditions; fluctuation in operating results; changes in foreign currency exchange rates; changes in the securities markets; continued listing of the Company's common stock on the NASDAQ Global Market and/or inclusion in market indices such as the Russell 2000; Escalade's ability to obtain financing and to maintain compliance with the terms of such financing; the availability, integration and effective operation of information systems and other technology, and the potential interruption of such systems or technology; risks related to data security of privacy breaches; and other risks detailed from time to time in Escalade's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Escalade's future financial performance could differ materially from the expectations of management contained herein. Escalade undertakes no obligation to release revisions to these forward-looking statements after the date of this press release.
Patrick Griffin
Vice President - Corporate Development & Investor Relations
812-467-1358
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SOURCE Escalade, Inc. | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/07/21/escalade-announces-second-quarter-2022-results-conference-call-date/ | 2022-07-21T20:30:45Z |
The thriving subscription economy is creating new entrepreneurial miracles.
BEIJING, July 22, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Edianyun, a leading technology-enabled office IT service provider in China, recently submitted its completed application forms to the Hong Kong Stock Exchange for listing on the HKEx Main Board. According to business consulting firm Frost & Sullivan, Edianyun is the first and largest technology-enabled office IT service provider in China.
What is the driving force behind its rapid growth and expansion as well as the flourishing of technology-enabled office IT service?
There are three pillars that bolster the development of Edianyun's office IT services:
Remanufacturing capabilities and technologies
By the end of 2021, Edianyun owned the largest remanufacturing factory in China, with a remanufacturing capacity of over 600,000 sets of computers. By leveraging its cutting-edge remanufacturing technologies, Edianyun can extend the service life of devices from an average of 3 years to 7-10 years, greatly boosting utilization efficiency.
Edianyun has also standardized the remanufacturing processes and chip-level precise repair technologies to optimize production, reduced the average timespan of remanufacturing processes to less than 10 days, and the average remanufacturing cost to less than RMB 100 per set.
Efficient self-developed system of operations (Nebula system)
Edianyun's self-developed Nebula system integrates services, devices and information, and connects the front-end and back-end operations that allow to efficiently manage devices on a large scale, handle complexity demands of business management, and provide timely customer service.
Remarkably high customer retention
Through a series of competitive self-developed technologies, Edianyun has established the technological strengths that anchor remarkably high customer retention rate. For 2019 and 2020, Edianyun achieved net dollar retention rate of 133.8% and 110.6%, respectively. As of September 30, 2021, that figure was 124.2%. The consistently high levels of customer retention indicate strong customer stickiness.
For 2019, 2020 and first three quarters in 2021, the recorded revenues of RMB632 million, RMB813 million and RMB838 million respectively, with corresponding gross margins of 38%, 41.4% and 48.4%. Edianyun's pay-as-you-go office IT services, the business sector from which generates primary revenue, accounted for 85.4% of total revenue for the year ended September 30, 2021. As of September 30, 2021, adjusted net profit amounted to RMB 74.9 million, turning losses into profits. This cannot be achieved without the brand loyalty and customer appreciation with comprehensive services. The excellent financial results are also owed to high customer stickiness and extensive coverage of golden customers from SMEs of various market segments.
The business enjoys promising prospects, especially when compared with a market penetration rate of 60.0% in terms of the number of devices in the United States in 2020, the usage-based office IT services industry in China has a penetration rate of merely 2.1%. And yet, the market size of usage-based office IT industry is expected to reach RMB 29.2 billion by 2025, representing enormous growth potential.
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SOURCE Edianyun | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/07/22/edianyuns-three-pillars-underpin-future-technology-enabled-office-it-services/ | 2022-07-22T12:53:07Z |
IFS solution will support company transformation and deliver faster access to innovations to drive enhanced performance
LONDON, June 23, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- IFS, the global cloud enterprise software company, today announced that global energy services company, Interwell, has chosen to upgrade its existing enterprise resource planning (ERP) and enterprise asset management (EAM) software to the latest IFS Cloud™ solution to drive efficiencies across its global operations. At the same time, the Norway-based product and service company has selected IFS Customer Success Services, an engagement framework designed to streamline day-to-day support for customers using IFS solutions.
The implementation will support the digitalisation of operations at Interwell and enable the company to bring technological innovations to market faster. By providing greater transparency and traceability across enterprise operations, it will help the operator achieve enhanced control of equipment rental costs and, at a higher level, of group consolidation.
The solution covers functionality used by more than 500 in all Interwell regions across the enterprise, including a wide range of business functions, from finance to supply chain management; maintenance; assembly; human capital management (HCM); quality, health, safety and environment (QHSE) and business intelligence (BI).
IFS Cloud will provide Interwell with a more standardised solution, offering the company easier and faster access to innovations across all of these functional areas. The implementation of new technology such as artificial intelligence (AI) and sensors will allow Interwell to look further into preventative maintenance, for example, while new functionality within HR will enable them to better match the right person to the right task.
Katrine Eide, VP QHSE / Chief Compliance Officer, Interwell, said: "We have built a close collaborative working relationship with IFS and have always been impressed with the quality and functionality of their solutions and their experience and expertise across the energy sector. The decision to upgrade to IFS Cloud was an intuitive one for us. We are confident that the scalability and power of the solution will enable us to expand our business dynamically by bringing in innovative new technologies to drive operational efficiencies and growth."
In addition, IFS Customer Success Services will give Interwell a bespoke success plan for their business, with ongoing success management and services sized to meet their business needs. The success plan will ensure that Interwell's priorities are clearly understood and communicated, and it will provide a mechanism to capture opportunities for improvement as well as tracking and reporting progress.
Ann-Kristin Sander, Managing Director, Nordics, IFS said: "Interwell is a fast-growing, ambitious energy services company which has always been forward-thinking and willing to embrace the latest innovative technologies to drive their business goals. We are thrilled that they have decided to expand their relationship with us by opting to upgrade to IFS Cloud. We are looking forward to working with them in the years to come to further guide them on their journey to ongoing operational success."
About Interwell:
Interwell develops and offers sealing technology and well integrity solutions. Our products help oil and gas operators to achieve the highest possible rate of recovery of hydrocarbons while reducing operational complexity, risk and environmental footprint. Existing wells make up the bulk of the activity, where the products are used throughout the well's life cycle up to and including final closure. Interwell's products also have applications within energy transition markets related to gas storage, carbon capture and geothermal wells. For more information, please visit www.interwell.com
About IFS
IFS develops and delivers cloud enterprise software for companies around the world who manufacture and distribute goods, build and maintain assets, and manage service-focused operations. Within our single platform, our industry specific products are innately connected to a single data model and use embedded digital innovation so that our customers can be their best when it really matters to their customers—at the Moment of Service™. The industry expertise of our people and of our growing ecosystem, together with a commitment to deliver value at every single step, has made IFS a recognized leader and the most recommended supplier in our sector. Our team of 4,500 employees every day live our values of agility, trustworthiness and collaboration in how we support our 10,000+ customers. Learn more about how our enterprise software solutions can help your business today at ifs.com.
IFS Press Contacts:
MEA / APJ: Adam Gillbe
IFS, Director of Corporate & Executive Communications
Email: press@ifs.com
Phone: +44 7775 114 856
USA: Mairi Morgan
Corporate Communications
Email: press@ifs.com
Phone: +1 520 396 2155
This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com
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SOURCE IFS | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/06/23/global-energy-service-provider-interwell-upgrades-ifs-cloud-digitalise-drive-dynamic-growth/ | 2022-06-23T08:17:28Z |
(NEXSTAR) — A controversial conservative Catholic organization is urging parents to “Hide the Pride” during Pride Month — by checking out any LBGTQ-related books they see at their local libraries so that no children will see them.
The group, CatholicVote, says “recent polls” show “American moms and dads do not want their children exposed to sexual and ‘trans’ content as part of their education.” The group says parents can inconspicuously check out materials and place them away from children at home.
The campaign comes after a sharp rise in book challenges and bans over the past year: Literary and free-expression advocacy group PEN America‘s Index of School Book Bans has recorded 1,586 instances of individual book bans between July 1, 2021 and March 31.
As Washington Post explains, there’s a difference between “challenges” and “bans”: Bans are complete restriction of materials from libraries, but challenges are merely attempts to restrict access. While many libraries have had to review their materials and/or remove them, nationally, many public libraries stand firmly on keeping contested materials available to the public.
In Texas, the Austin Public Library says many of its branches feature Pride displays. Additionally, APL is hosting a series of summer events called “Banned Camp,” a representative told Nexstar. These events are intended to spark conversations about book-banning overall.
“Freedom to read is a right that must be protected in our schools and public libraries, and we must not give in to the vocal few that want to speak for the many,” Austin Public Library Director Roosevelt Weeks said in previous statement about limiting access.
The library’s “Banned Camp” begins with one particularly notable LGBTQ title, George M. Johnson’s “All Boys Aren’t Blue.” The book of essays explores Johnson’s experiences growing up as Black and queer, according to publisher Farrar, Strauss and Giroux. While the book has been widely celebrated, it has also been a major target for crusades against LGBTQ youth books. Earlier this year, the American Library Association listed the memoir as one of the 10 most challenged books of 2021.
In an April Global Citizen article, Johnson, who uses they/them pronouns, explained they wrote the book so Black and queer youth could see themselves and their own experiences in the material, which contains stories based on Johnson’s experiences as an adolescent.
It’s a feeling shared by author Adam Sass, whose 2020 young-adult novel “Surrender Your Sons” focused on a group of queer youths shipped off to an island-based conversion camp.
“Restricting access to LGBTQ-centered books hurts kids,” Sass says. “It hurts queer kids because it robs them of the various mirrors they need to figure out who they are, give voice and form to their feelings, and feel less alone. It also hurts straight kids because it robs them of insight they might get into their queer siblings or friends.”
Sass continued, saying the aim of these campaigns is to erase queer youth.
“They want kids afraid, and they want them in hiding — not because Jesus said it. They do it because they like it.”
In addition to checking out materials, CatholicVote also suggests parents write letters complaining about Pride Month displays and materials, LGBTQ outlet Into explains. Writer Johnny Levanier notes the campaign could backfire for the group, since libraries may believe the mass checkouts means increased need for more LGBTQ books.
Pride Month books
Denver Public Library’s Pride Month 2022 book guide includes recommendations for LGBTQ titles broken down by age group.
Children: “Adventures with My Daddies,” by Gareth Peter; “Being You: A First Conversation about Gender,” by Megan Madison; “A Church for All,” by Gayle Pitman; and “Heather Has Two Mommies,” by Lesléa Newman.
Teen: “The Black Flamingo,” by Dean Atta; “Gender Queer: A Memoir,” by Maia Kobabe; “The Lesbiana’s Guide to Catholic School,” by Sonora Reyes; “The Chandler Legacies,” by Abdi Nazemian; “Date Me, Bryson Keller,” by Kevin Van Whye; and “Two Boys Kissing,” by David Levithan. | https://cw33.com/news/nexstar-media-wire/catholic-group-launches-hide-the-pride-anti-lgbtq-library-campaign/ | 2022-06-11T22:37:03Z |
ALBANY – The registration form for the next city of Albany Government 101 class went live at 10 a.m. Monday.
The Government 101 program launched earlier this year as a way to give people a chance to meet city of Albany leaders and learn about how the city government and departments operate. To give participants a more one-on-one experience with the Government 101 presenters, the class is limited to 20 participants per course.
During the individual classes, participants will get to hear from city leaders on how their department operates and get to ask them questions. Participants also will get to share a meal with the presenters and any other city staff that attends each class and get to know them on a more personal level.
This time, the course has been extended from six weeks to eight weeks. Students are allowed to miss only two classes before they are removed from the course. Interested participants are encouraged to verify they will be available for at least six, if not all eight, courses before registering.
The planner for the next eight-week course is included below. Those who would like to participate can sign up by filling out the registration form at https://forms.albanyga.gov/Forms/gov101. Space is limited, and participants are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.
Government 101 Planner
• Sept. 12: Government Structure and Finances, Time: 6-8 p.m.
-- Departmental Presentations:
▪ City Manager
▪ City Commission
▪ Finance
• Sept. 19: Public Safety, Time: 6-8 p.m.
-- Department Presentations:
▪ Police
▪ Fire
▪ 911
▪ EMA
• Sept. 26: Planning & Development and Code Enforcement, Time: 6-8 p.m.
-- Department Presentations:
▪ Planning & Development
▪ Code Enforcement
• Oct. 3: DCED and Central Services, Time: 6-8 p.m.
-- Department Presentations:
▪ Department of Community and Economic Development
▪ Central Services
• Oct. 10: Municipal Court and Transit, Time: 6-8 p.m.
-- Department Presentations:
▪ Municipal Court
▪ Albany Works!
▪ Transportation
▪ Southwest Georgia Regional Airport
• Oct. 17: Recreation & Parks and Downtown, Time: 6-8 p.m.
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accounts, the history behind an article. | https://www.albanyherald.com/local/registration-open-for-next-government-101-cohort/article_b1a4111a-1741-11ed-8a2f-5759ccf43bc8.html | 2022-08-08T19:41:44Z |
First and only Hotel in Jordan to Achieve the Coveted Five-Star Award
TORONTO, May 18, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Four Seasons Hotel Amman announces that it is the first and only hotel in Jordan to have earned the coveted Five-Star rating from Forbes Travel Guide, the only global rating system for luxury hotels, restaurants and spas.
Further elevating its appeal as one of Jordan's top luxury destinations, Four Seasons Hotel Amman invites guests to discover an entirely new hospitality experience following the completion of its extensive renovation program. The Hotel has been completely redesigned, and blends the finest traditions of Jordanian hospitality with contemporary elegance to create a relaxing "home away from home" that is set to enchant both local visitors and international travelers.
The enhanced guest experience begins on the approach to the Hotel, which sits atop the tallest of Amman's seven hills in the prestigious Abdoun residential district. Visitors are greeted with elegant exterior lighting on the white stone-and-glass building and a completely new road framed by intricate landscaping, before arriving at the redesigned vestibule area that leads to the lobby. This grand entrance sets the tone for the tasteful interiors found within, which reflect the Jordanian capital's intersection of Arabic, Islamic and Western cultures.
Carlo Stragiotto, General Manager at Four Seasons Hotel Amman, said, "We are very proud that we have achieved the Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star rating, which is globally recognized as one of the highest accolades in the world of hospitality. This is testament to the fact that we are able to offer our guests an unrivalled luxury experience thanks to our exceptional people. The emphasis placed on quality of service by the Forbes rating system makes it especially rewarding to know we are consistently delivering impeccable hospitality in true Four Seasons style. This achievement highlights the outstanding craftsmanship and dedication of our teams, whose shared passion for creating extraordinary experiences shines through and brings great delight to our guests on a daily basis."
Stragiotto added, "We are also proud to offer industry-leading technology such as the Four Seasons App and Chat, as well as our Lead With Care initiative for enhanced health and safety measures."
"Travel has come back strongly, and the resilient hospitality industry is creatively rallying to accommodate the increased occupancy demand for most regions," says Hermann Elger, CEO of Forbes Travel Guide. "While the industry faces some lingering issues, the 2022 award winners proved ready for those challenges and more, demonstrating the best that luxury hospitality has to offer."
At Four Seasons Hotel Amman, visitors are invited to discover more than just world-class accommodation and culinary craftsmanship. The Hotel's concierge team is ready to help guests explore Jordan's capital and beyond by sharing their personal favourites and revealing hidden gems through exclusive excursions to the North of Jordan. These passionate local experts are happy to put together customized itineraries that will help make guests' stays even more memorable.
To make a reservation, call +962 (6) 550-5555 or book online.
Contact:
fourseasons@kwtglobal.com
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SOURCE Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/05/18/four-seasons-hotel-amman-awarded-five-star-hotel-honour-by-2022-forbes-travel-guide/ | 2022-05-18T13:45:30Z |
Collar worn by Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg up for auction
(CNN) – She was a trailblazer serving on the nation’s highest court for 27 years.
Now, nearly 100 personal items of the late Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg are up for auction.
According to Auction House Bonhams, the items being offered include some rare signature pieces from Ginsburg’s fashion collection.
Some of the items include two pairs of her lace gloves, one of her favorite shawls and a beaded gilt collar necklace.
Justice Ginsburg was known for styling her judicial robes with bold collars.
This one being auctioned is estimated to be worth between $3,000 and $5,000.
The auction is now live on Bonhams.com. It ends Sept. 16.
The proceeds will benefit SOS Children’s Villages, an organization that cares for foster children or those who are at risk of losing their parents.
Copyright 2022 CNN Newsource. All rights reserved. | https://www.wibw.com/2022/09/08/collar-worn-by-justice-ruth-bader-ginsburg-up-auction/ | 2022-09-08T17:45:29Z |
TORONTO, June 1, 2022 /PRNewswire/ - At a time when global concern about employee burnout is at a record high, McLean & Company, the trusted partner of HR and leadership professionals around the world, has released its newest blueprint, Plan to Extinguish Organizational Burnout. The data-driven research is designed to help business and HR leaders implement a multilevel approach to address and minimize burnout across their organizations, with the goal of creating a post-pandemic future without burnout.
"Common approaches to remedying burnout focus primarily on the individual's responsibility to solve the issue of feeling burnt out, like practicing yoga or taking additional time off," says Kelly Berte, director of HR Research & Advisory at McLean & Company. "While these approaches have value, they're only a temporary coping method. Today, 60% of HR professionals indicate they are experiencing higher levels of work stress compared to three years ago, as highlighted in McLean and Company's 2022 HR Trends Report."
The findings are particularly concerning when we take into account that employees who consider their work stress levels to be manageable are 3.7 times more likely to be engaged at work (McLean & Company Engagement Survey Database, 2022).
"To escape the infinite cycle of employees re-experiencing burnout, organizations need to shift the focus of burnout solutions from individual responsibility to the organizational level," explains Berte. "It's here that root causes are addressed and norms that promote employee health and wellbeing are fostered."
The new research states that the common causes of burnout, adapted from Maslach & Leiter, fall under six core domains:
- Workload – The number and complexity of work-related tasks or processes that require physical, mental, or emotional effort and are influenced by time pressures.
- Role Clarity & Autonomy – The degree to which employees understand their job responsibilities, have control over how their work is completed, and feel they have adequate resources or training to succeed
- Supervisor & Coworker Relationships – Internal relationships and the extent to which they promote mutual support, bidirectional communication, and cooperation.
- Rewards & Recognition – Monetary and non-monetary rewards that result in employees feeling valued and recognized for their personal contributions to the organization.
- Fairness & Equity – The perceived fairness of organizational processes and policies, such as work assignments, promotions, and pay increases.
- Employee & Organizational Values – The perceived connection between an employee's work responsibilities and goals and the organization's mission/vision/values.
To address these domains of burnout, McLean & Company suggests following its three-step plan:
- Identify root causes of burnout: Identify key roles and responsibilities in evaluating and addressing burnout. This includes gathering existing internal data to assess the current state of burnout and using McLean & Company's Burnout Questionnaire, then considering the data by employee segment to identify high-priority groups. Conducting focus groups to capture employee voice and identifying priority root causes of burnout and their associated goals and metrics are also critical.
- Tailor solutions to address root causes of burnout: Explore solutions across the six burnout domains and create a shortlist based on employee needs and organizational resourcing constraints. Consult with stakeholders to finalize a list of solutions and, finally, create a roadmap to outline solution implementation and plan for the change management process.
- Create a future with minimal burnout: Revise organizational policies and programs to identify gaps and opportunities for minimizing burnout. Equip managers with the tools and training they need to identify and minimize burnout within their teams and develop a communication plan to promote solution uptake. Then create a plan to reevaluate and monitor organizational burnout. Also consider reviewing McLean & Company workshops that can assist with solution implementation.
McLean & Company's research emphasizes that assessing burnout is an ongoing process, not a one-time effort. Triggers and signs of burnout will continuously surface across the workforce, creating the need for continuous reevaluation and iteration of solutions.
To support people leaders in their efforts to identify, address, and prevent burnout within their organizations, McLean & Company offers practical resources like Plan to Extinguish Organizational Burnout as well as various levels of support designed to meet organizations' unique HR needs, including DIY toolkits, guided implementations, workshops, and consulting.
To learn more about McLean & Company or to download all the latest research, visit hr.mcleanco.com and connect via LinkedIn and Twitter.
Media professionals are encouraged to register for McLean & Company's Media Insiders Program for more research and insights. This program provides unrestricted, on-demand access to HR, IT, and software industry content as well as subject matter experts from a group of over 200 research analysts. To apply for access, contact pr@mcleanco.com.
About McLean & Company
Through data-driven insights and proven best-practice methodologies, McLean & Company offers comprehensive resources and full-service assessments, action plans, and training to position organizations to meet today's needs and prepare for the future.
McLean & Company is a division of Info-Tech Research Group.
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SOURCE McLean & Company | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/06/01/organizations-must-address-employee-burnout-survive-post-pandemic-future-says-hr-research-firm-mclean-amp-company/ | 2022-06-01T17:03:15Z |
NEW YORK, July 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Gross Law Firm issues the following notice to shareholders of Dentsply Sirona Inc..
Shareholders who purchased shares of XRAY during the class period listed are encouraged to contact the firm regarding possible lead plaintiff appointment. Appointment as lead plaintiff is not required to partake in any recovery.
CONTACT US HERE:
CLASS PERIOD: This lawsuit is on behalf of all persons or entities that purchased Dentsply's common stock between June 9, 2021, and May 9, 2022.
ALLEGATIONS: According to the filed complaint, defendants orchestrated a scheme to inflate Dentsply's revenue and earnings by manipulating the Company's accounting for a distributor rebate program so that senior executives would be eligible for significant cash and stock-based incentive compensation. In order to facilitate this scheme, Dentsply and its executives made numerous false and misleading statements to investors during the class period. As a result of defendants' misrepresentations, Dentsply's common stock traded at artificially inflated prices during the class period.
DEADLINE: August 1, 2022 Shareholders should not delay in registering for this class action. Register your information here: https://securitiesclasslaw.com/securities/dentsply-sirona-inc-loss-submission-form/?id=29734&from=4
NEXT STEPS FOR SHAREHOLDERS: Once you register as a shareholder who purchased shares of XRAY during the timeframe listed above, you will be enrolled in a portfolio monitoring software to provide you with status updates throughout the lifecycle of the case. The deadline to seek to be a lead plaintiff is August 1, 2022. There is no cost or obligation to you to participate in this case.
WHY GROSS LAW FIRM? The Gross Law Firm is nationally recognized class action law firm, and our mission is to protect the rights of all investors who have suffered as a result of deceit, fraud, and illegal business practices. The Gross Law Firm is committed to ensuring that companies adhere to responsible business practices and engage in good corporate citizenship. The firm seeks recovery on behalf of investors who incurred losses when false and/or misleading statements or the omission of material information by a company lead to artificial inflation of the company's stock. Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.
CONTACT:
The Gross Law Firm
15 West 38th Street, 12th floor
New York, NY, 10018
Email: dg@securitiesclasslaw.com
Phone: (646) 453-8903
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SOURCE The Gross Law Firm | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/07/13/shareholder-alert-gross-law-firm-notifies-shareholders-dentsply-sirona-inc-class-action-lawsuit-lead-plaintiff-deadline-august-1-2022-nasdaq-xray/ | 2022-07-13T11:02:09Z |
Leader in functional products expands portfolio with tasty, powdered mixes to support energy, gut health, and relaxation
LOS ANGELES, June 22, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Four Sigmatic, the functional foods company on a mission to make the world's most studied and nutrient-dense foods more delicious and easier to consume, today launches Super Powders – a new line of refreshing, fruity, powdered drink blends that deliver health benefits when added to water.
Unlike other functional powdered blends which are typically filled with unnecessary sugar, fillers, artificial flavors, or confusing ingredients that make them ineffective for consumers, each of the three new Super Powder products features a curated blend of highly effective adaptogens (500 mg per serving), botanicals, and minerals, with delicious flavor from real fruit and no fillers or artificial ingredients. Plus, they contain only 2 grams or less of real fruit sugars per serving.
Simply stir, shake or blend one scoop into 6 to 8 ounces of water. Or mix into smoothies to support energy, gut health, or relaxation in a simple and delicious way.
"We continue to innovate and expand our portfolio to help people find new ways to feel great every day naturally," says Tero Isokauppila, Founder and CEO of Four Sigmatic. "Super Powders are an easy way to do that. They make health easy and accessible – all you need is cold water!"
Perform Super Powder (Raspberry Pomegranate) – This blend delivers an extra boost of energy support without any caffeine, for pre-, post- or no workout. The combination of antioxidant properties from red super fruits and berries, paired with metabolism-supporting garcinia and bitter melon, plus energizing cordyceps mushrooms extract and goji berries pump up your performance.
Gut Health Super Powder (Apple Celery) – This green juice-replacing blend nourishes your gut to start any day right. Nourish your body with wheatgrass, moringa, and kale super greens, plus 1 billion CFU shelf-stable probiotics that feed health gut flora with the addition of prebiotics from yacon and turkey tail mushrooms. There's also chaga and celery to further support your digestive system. This blend takes the leg work out of the morning squeeze.
Chill Super Powder (Blueberry Lavender) – This chill blend features magnesium and calming herbs to support a good night's sleep. Tremella mushroom, ashwagandha, chamomile, and lavender are included to conquer common everyday stress. Sip before bed to kick back and chill.
Four Sigmatic Super Powders are available for purchase on FourSigmatic.com for $25 ($20 for members only) each. Four Sigmatic's broader and almost-magically easy and delicious product offerings are sold in 7,000 doors and counting, including Whole Foods, Target, Sprouts, Wegmans, HEB, King Soopers, Fred Meyer, Amazon, Thrive Market, and other natural product retailers. Four Sigmatic products are also available in over 65 countries worldwide.
Four Sigmatic is a functional foods company with a mission to make the world's most studied and nutrient-dense foods more delicious and easier to consume, bringing healthy upgrades into America's daily routine. The company created crash-free coffee, almost unbelievable plant protein and other elevated essentials to work wonders all day. Four Sigmatic produces delicious mushroom-based products backed by science to help people better handle the overwhelming demands of modern living. Four Sigmatic solves the needs of people looking for authentic products they can trust by combining delicious flavors with a potent dosage of rigorously tested, effective mushroom ingredients. For more information about Four Sigmatic, visit FourSigmatic.com or follow @FourSigmatic on Instagram.
Contact: Nicole Stephens, Media/PR
Stanton & Company
nicole@stanton-company.com
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SOURCE Four Sigmatic | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/06/22/four-sigmatic-kicks-off-summer-with-new-super-powders-packed-with-health-benefits/ | 2022-06-22T18:31:22Z |
SAO PAULO, June 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Plintron Holdings PTE Ltd. and Plintron Mobility Solutions Private Ltd. (together, Plintron) have successfully secured a favorable award in an arbitration commenced by Surf Telecom S.A. f/k/a EUTV Consultoria e Intermediacao de Negocios S.A. (Surf Telecom), under the Commercial Arbitration Rules of the American Arbitration Association.
The sole arbitrator rejected all claims brought by Surf Telecom arising from a Master Services Agreement entered into with Plintron in 2017. The arbitrator found that Surf Telecom breached the parties' Master Service Agreement and awarded damages caused by Surf Telecom's breaches.
Background:
The arbitration arose from the Master Services Agreement entered into between Surf Telecom and Plintron in 2017. Surf Telecom claimed both in the arbitration, as well as in a number of public statements, that Plintron breached the Master Services Agreement by stopping providing Surf Telecom with certain services resulting in damage to its customers and reputation. Plintron counterclaimed for Surf Telecom's failure to pay for services rendered, as well as for improper termination of the Master Service Agreement.
The Award:
In the Award issued on May 31, 2022, the arbitrator rejected all claims brought by Surf Telecom. The arbitrator determined that Surf Telecom was in material breach of the Master Services Agreement. The arbitrator ordered Surf Telecom to pay all the outstanding invoices as well as applicable interest and damages for Surf Telecom's breach of the Master Services Agreement.
About Plintron
Plintron is an innovative SaaS company offering MVNE, MVNA, CPaaS and IOT solutions using its cloud communications platform. It is the world's largest multi Country end to end MVNA & MVNE provider with a client base in 6 continents. With mobile network services in 30+ countries spanning 6 continents supported by 1000+ telecom professionals, Plintron has launched 143+ MVNOs and 165 million+ mobile subscribers.
Visit www.Plintron.com
CONTACT: Shamik Biswas, marketing@plintron.com
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SOURCE Plintron | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/06/09/plintron-succeeds-arbitration-against-surf-telecom/ | 2022-06-09T12:33:11Z |
BLOOMFIELD, Conn., Aug. 18, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Cigna Foundation today announced more than $3 million in grants to local nonprofits to help address childhood hunger and mental health concerns as schools return to session. Innovative programs spanning communities in 16 states will receive critical financial support enabling them to positively impact thousands of children across the country.
"Schools and teachers play a critical role in helping their students navigate immense challenges – both inside and outside the classroom. We believe we also have a role to play, and are deepening our partnerships with leading local nonprofits that are essential to healthier, happier children, families, and communities," said Susan Stith, president, Cigna Foundation.
Grant recipients are addressing some of the toughest challenges facing school-aged children and their families, including the rise in mental health issues and food insecurity – both of which worsened due to the pandemic. Research from Economist Impact, commissioned by Cigna Corporation, found that approximately 80% of working parents surveyed reported some form of impact on the mental health of their teenage children as a result of the pandemic, including new or increased levels of anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, and problems with social interactions.
More than 12 million children in the United States are food insecure and do not have consistent access to healthy food. According to Feeding America, the pandemic exacerbated food insecurity, particularly for families with children and communities of color.
Some of the programs that the Cigna Foundation is partnering with this year are:
Weekend Feeding Backpack Program – Using smartphone technology to help reduce stigma and food waste, this program through the Brashear Association, allows families at Pittsburgh Arlington and Pittsburgh Grandview schools to select culturally diverse food options as well as receive text messages with healthy meal recipes and nutrition tips.
Outdoor G.I.R.L.S. – Operated through Women's Wilderness Institute in Boulder, Colorado, this program leverages the transformative power of the outdoors and physical activity, in conjunction with trauma-informed practices and clinical support, to improve mental health outcomes for adolescent girls who identify as immigrants and refugees. Outdoor G.I.R.L.S. (Girl Immigrant and Refugee Leadership Series) looks to address the social, cultural, geographical, and economic barriers to participation in outdoor and physical activities that immigrant and refugee girls face.
Kid's Cafe – A healthy school pantry located at Northaven Elementary School in Memphis, Tennessee, and operated by the Mid-South Food Bank provides students in need and their families with a monthly box of nutritious food that is easily accessible, providing the equivalent of 42 meals per month. The cafe also provides hot meals to take home every other Friday. Additional programs include Family Night where families will have access to fresh produce and other items, such as laundry detergent, tissues, and paper towels, as well as Food for Kids Backpack Program that includes food for the weekend and extended school breaks.
Amped Ecosystem – The Humanities Amped Ecosystem at Broadmoor High School in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, links social emotional learning with opportunities for youth to use their voices through healing-centered and culturally responsive practices including restorative practices, mind-body medicine, arts integration, project-based learning, and peer-led engagement. Before and after school programs, such as arts and civics engagement and peer-to-peer activities, are also part of this initiative.
All grants are made available through Cigna Foundation's Healthier Kids For Our Future® program, a five-year, $25 million global initiative focused on improving the health and well-being of children. Since its inception in 2019, the program has awarded more than $18 million in grants.
Cigna Foundation, established in 1962, is a private foundation funded by contributions from Cigna Corporation (NYSE:CI) and its subsidiaries. Cigna Foundation supports organizations sharing its commitment to enhancing the health of individuals and families, and the well-being of their communities, with a special focus on those communities where Cigna employees live and work.
In 2021, Cigna Foundation awarded nearly $16 million in grants to support nonprofits that share our commitment to enhancing health and well-being.
Media Contact
Meaghan MacDonald
1 (860) 910-8194
meaghan.macdonald@cigna.com
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SOURCE Cigna Foundation | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/08/18/cigna-foundation-commits-3-million-help-local-nonprofits-address-childhood-hunger-mental-health-this-school-year/ | 2022-08-18T12:36:14Z |
NEW YORK, April 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Chesapeake Asset Management (CAM), a privately owned, SEC Registered Investment Advisor founded in 1998, announced today that it has acquired Cherry Lane Capital, LLC. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
Cherry Lane Capital is a Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) with offices in New York City and Boca Raton specializing in investment management and financial & retirement planning. After an initial investment in 2020, CAM will purchase the remaining shares of Cherry Lane Capital, effective April 5th, 2022.
CAM serves as a long-term strategic partner to families, endowments, and foundations, offering a comprehensive investment solution that combines direct investing in public markets with capital allocation across a select number of outside managers. The firm's multi-decade experience in alternative asset classes is a particular point of differentiation. The acquisition of Cherry Lane Capital expands the firm's reach into the retail wealth management arena. Cherry Lane co-founders Jesse Christensen and Ryan Berman will join Chesapeake as partners to lead the firm's newly established Wealth Management division.
Chesapeake's Managing Member Gerasimos Efthimiatos notes, "Cherry Lane has enjoyed impressive growth since its inception and over the past two years I was able to see first-hand how Jesse and Ryan run their business, their commitment to clients, and their investment philosophy which emphasizes long-term wealth creation. I am looking forward to working with them as we build an investment firm with a comprehensive offering that addresses our clients' investment and financial planning needs."
Jesse Christensen and Ryan Berman left Morgan Stanley in 2017 to launch Cherry Lane Capital. Christensen adds, "Chesapeake's legacy speaks for itself and we are honored to be a part of the firm's next chapter. Importantly, we are excited for our clients who will benefit greatly from the enhanced resources and intellectual capital embedded in our new venture".
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SOURCE Chesapeake Asset Management, LLC | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/04/11/chesapeake-asset-management-expands-wealth-management-services-with-acquisition-cherry-lane-capital-new-york/ | 2022-04-11T20:49:15Z |
BOSTON, April 8, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Boston Architectural College (BAC) announces the launching of its newest video venture, BAC Channel with Mahesh Daas. This ongoing program will offer a series of exclusive, insightful, and one-on-one conversations between President Mahesh Daas and thought leaders from around the design professions and related industries.
Each episode aligns with the BAC's critical mission to diversify the design professions through expanded access to excellence in design education. Another key program goal includes increasing awareness of the design discipline to advance design literacy within the public sphere.
The BAC is honored to kick-off its inaugural episode of BAC Channel with Mahesh Daas by featuring Professor Balkrishna Doshi—India's first and only Pritzker prize winning architect, educator, guru, and the BAC's 2021 honorary alumnus. As President Daas noted, "While the number of his projects might be measurable, the impact of his influence is immeasurable."
In this first episode, which was filmed during the height of the global pandemic, Professor Doshi and President Daas speak candidly about his life and career spanning nine decades, discussing design education, theory, rituals, space, architecture as well as the immense impact on our global structures and society during a global pandemic.
Watch this unique conversation during the inaugural launch of BAC Channel with Mahesh Daas—experience a candid discussion, and delve into the prodigious life of a leading architect, guru, and educator of our time, Professor Balkrishna Doshi.
Stay tuned for more information on upcoming episodes of BAC Channel with Mahesh Daas by visiting our website.
Dr. Mahesh Daas, ACSA Distinguished Professor, serves as the eighth president of The Boston Architectural College. President Daas is the author of two books, Leading with Aesthetics: The Transformational Leadership of President Charles M. Vest at M.I.T. (2015, 2019) as well as co-edited volume Towards A Robotic Architecture (2018). He also serves as the current Chancellor of the ACSA College of Distinguished Professors and on the editorial board of Construction Robotics Journal. Boston Magazine hailed "The BAC's Mahesh Daas is on a Mission to Reinvent Design Education."
Founded in 1889, The Boston Architectural College (BAC) is an internationally recognized institution with a diverse student and alumni population representing more than 54 countries. Providing excellence in practice-integrated design education, the BAC was Ranked #1 for Best Graduate School for Earning Potential and #4 for Best Architecture School Offering Bachelor's Degrees in the U.S. in 2020 by GradReports. The BAC offers bachelor and graduate degrees in architecture, interior architecture, landscape architecture, design studies as well as offering continuing education certificates and courses. The BAC upholds the importance of inclusive admission, diversity, innovation, dedicated faculty, and the intrinsic value of both academic and experiential education.
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SOURCE Boston Architectural College | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/04/08/boston-architectural-college-launches-bac-channel-with-mahesh-daas-featuring-pritzker-laureate-balkrishna-doshi/ | 2022-04-09T06:33:20Z |
ANAHEIM, Calif. (AP) — Mike Trout is still expected to play in next week’s All-Star Game despite dealing with upper back spasms.
The Los Angeles Angels superstar wasn’t in the lineup for Wednesday’s game against the Astros and could miss at least the next two games. Trout Tuesday night’s loss to Houston during the fifth inning.
The three-time AL MVP was selected earlier this month to appear in his 10th All-Star Game, which will be played next Tuesday at Dodger Stadium.
“We’ve talked to him about that. He’s expected to be available for that game,” trainer Mike Frostad said Wednesday. “He’s been dealing with a lot of stuff throughout the entire year. And, you know, this is just one more thing to add to the pile. He’s got a good pain threshold. He’s played through a lot.”
Frostad said MRI and CT scans on Trout’s back did not show any muscle strains or tightness. Trout first mentioned having back spasms last week while the team was in Miami for a series against the Marlins, the trainer said.
Trout — who is hitting .270 with 24 homers and 51 RBIs — has been bothered by several minor injuries this year. He is 6 for 36 (.167) with one homer, four RBIs and 16 strikeouts this month for the Angels, who have dropped nine of 10.
Astros manager Dusty Baker, who will manage the AL squad, said he discussed Trout’s status with Angels interim manager Phil Nevin during batting practice.
___
More AP MLB: https://apnews.com/hub/MLB and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports | https://cw33.com/sports/ap-sports/trout-expected-to-play-in-all-star-game-despite-back-spasms/ | 2022-07-14T12:17:25Z |
WASHINGTON (AP) — The Department of Homeland Security is stepping up an effort to counter disinformation coming from Russia as well as misleading information that human smugglers circulate to target migrants hoping to travel to the U.S.-Mexico border.
“The spread of disinformation can affect border security, Americans’ safety during disasters, and public trust in our democratic institutions,” the department said in a statement Wednesday. It declined The Associated Press’ request for an interview.
A newly formed Disinformation Governance Board announced Wednesday will immediately begin focusing on misinformation aimed at migrants, a problem that has helped to fuel sudden surges at the U.S. southern border in recent years. Human smugglers often spread misinformation around border policies to drum up business.
Last September, for example, confusion around President Joe Biden’s immigration policies combined with messages shared widely across the Haitian community on Meta’s Facebook and WhatsApp platforms led some of the 14,000 migrants to the border town of Del Rio, Texas, where they set up camp. Some were ultimately expelled and were flown out of the U.S.
“We are very concerned that Haitians who are taking the irregular migration path are receiving misinformation that the border is open,” Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said at the time.
The new board also will monitor and prepare for Russian disinformation threats as this year’s midterm elections near and the Kremlin continues an aggressive disinformation campaign around the war in Ukraine. Russia has repeatedly waged misinformation campaigns aimed at U.S. audiences to further divisions around election time and spread conspiracy theories around U.S. COVID-19 vaccines. Most recently, Russian state media outlets, social media accounts and officials have used the internet to call photographs, reporting and videos of dead bodies and bombed buildings in Ukraine fake.
The board will be led by disinformation expert Nina Jankowicz, who has researched Russian misinformation tactics and online harassment.
During the 2020 presidential campaign, Biden, a Democrat, repeatedly said he would push tech companies, including Facebook, to crack down harder on misinformation and conspiracy theories that have overwhelmed social media and its users.
Dozens of Republican lawmakers and pundits took to social media on Wednesday to widely criticize the new board and call for it to be disbanded.
“Rather than police our border, Homeland Security has decided to make policing Americans’ speech its top priority,” a tweet from Missouri’s U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley read, in part. “They’re creating a Disinformation Board.”
DHS said in its statement that the board will “protect privacy, civil rights, and civil liberties” as part of its duties. | https://cw33.com/news/politics/ap-politics/disinformation-board-to-tackle-russia-migrant-smugglers/ | 2022-04-29T07:07:56Z |
Uvalde school year starts amid fear and unfinished security
AUSTIN, Texas (AP) - A new and worrisome school year begins Tuesday in Uvalde.
There is new high fencing around the Texas community’s public school campuses that still isn’t finished, a heavy police patrol that many families don’t trust and no classes ever again at Robb Elementary School, three months after a gunman with an AR-15-style rifle killed 19 children and two teachers inside two adjoining fourth-grade classrooms.
Ashley Morales is putting her son, Jeremiah, back in class — because she says she has no other choice as a working single mother. She will drop him off outside Uvalde Elementary on the first day. She says parents won’t be allowed inside.
“I’m just nervous, scared,” said Morales, whose son was a third-grader last year at Robb Elementary and lost three friends in the May 24 massacre. During a recent “Meet the Teacher” night, she felt a rush of anxiety walking down the school hall.
“Oh my gosh, it’s actually going to happen,” she said. “School is going to start.”
Although school already started weeks ago in many parts of Texas, officials pushed back the first day of class in Uvalde after a summer of unfathomable heartache, anger and revelations of widespread failures by law enforcement who allowed an 18-year-old gunman to fire inside the adjoining classrooms for more than 70 minutes.
Despite pushing back the start of the year, Uvalde school officials said several enhanced security measures remain incomplete, including installing additional cameras and new locks.
The Texas Department of Public Safety has committed to putting nearly three dozen state troopers on Uvalde campuses — but that is of no comfort to some families since there were more than 90 state troopers on scene during the attack.
More than 100 families in Uvalde signed up for virtual school, while others pulled their kids out of the district and enrolled them in private schools. One teacher who was shot in the abdomen and survived, Elsa Avila, will not be greetings students for the first time in 30 years because she is still recovering.
A damning report by a Texas House committee found that nearly 400 officers in all rushed to Robb Elementary after the shooting but hesitated for more than hour to confront the shooter. Body camera and surveillance footage showed heavily armed officers, some holding bulletproof shields, stacked in the hallway but not advancing to the classroom.
Steve McCraw, head of the Texas Department of Public Safety, called the response “an abject failure.”
Last month, the Uvalde school board fired district police Chief Pete Arredondo, who McCraw and the House report accused of failing to take control of the scene and wasting time by looking for a key for a classroom door that was likely unlocked. The firing has not quieted demands for others to face punishment. One other officer — Uvalde Lt. Mariano Pargas, the acting police chief that day — has been placed on administrative leave.
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For more AP coverage of the Uvalde school shooting: https://apnews.com/hub/uvalde-school-shooting.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | https://www.wibw.com/2022/09/06/uvalde-school-year-starts-amid-fear-unfinished-security/ | 2022-09-06T10:48:15Z |
Clearlake Capital-backed Vive Collective™ led the investment with participation from existing investors
SAN FRANCISCO, June 1, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- SamaCare, a prior authorization platform for physician-administered medications, today announced the close of a $12 million Series A funding round led by Clearlake Capital-backed Vive Collective™, with participation from existing investors including NextView Ventures, South Park Commons, and Susa Capital. As part of the investment, Vive's Founder and CEO Cheryl Cheng will join the company's board of directors. The funding and partnership will enable SamaCare to expand practice penetration across existing and new specialties, ramp up customer acquisition and support for pharmaceutical manufacturers, and bring on key executives.
SamaCare offers retina, oncology, neurology, rheumatology practices and other infusion providers a unified prior authorization, enrollment, and benefits verification portal experience for specialty medication across payers. Currently, over 2,300 prescribers utilize SamaCare.
"We are excited to leverage the digital health and healthcare infrastructure expertise of Cheryl and the Vive Collective™ team as we continue to expand SamaCare's penetration across retina and oncology practices, establish a strong foothold with neurology and rheumatology practices, and deepen our pharmaceutical company relationships," said Syam Palakurthy, founder and CEO of SamaCare.
SamaCare works with pharmaceutical manufacturers to help market access and patient services teams ensure that patients get access to therapeutics. SamaCare provides aggregate insights on barriers to access as well as a channel to empower pharma access teams at the point of care.
"SamaCare streamlines administrative processes that often impact patient care, and its platform can improve the patient experience, administrative efficiency, and even clinical outcomes by preventing unnecessary delays to care," said Ms. Cheng. "SamaCare also offers biopharma partners unique insights in a normally opaque and hard to aggregate industry. We look forward to working closely with Syam and the entire SamaCare team to help expand its presence and reach to more patients."
About SamaCare
SamaCare helps pharmaceutical manufacturers, providers, payors, and other stakeholders quickly and cost-effectively deliver life-changing therapies to patients. The company provides a cloud-based workflow automation platform for medical practices to streamline specialty drug prior authorization, enrollment, and benefit verification. In addition, SamaCare delivers premium services and data analytics for pharmaceutical brands to improve access to therapy. SamaCare currently works with retina, oncology, neurology, and rheumatology practices that account for over $20B in annual specialty drug spend and continues to grow quickly. For more information, visit https://www.samacare.com.
About Vive Collective
Vive Collective™ is a new model to build, fund and scale the best digital health companies. Vive provides a flexible partnership approach to back high-growth, disruptive digital health companies with a network of healthcare and technology experts and partners. More information is available at www.vivecollective.com and on Twitter @vivecollective.
About Clearlake
Clearlake Capital Group, L.P. is an investment firm founded in 2006 operating integrated businesses across private equity, credit, and other related strategies. With a sector-focused approach, the firm seeks to partner with management teams by providing patient, long-term capital to businesses that can benefit from Clearlake's operational improvement approach, O.P.S.® The firm's core target sectors are technology, industrials, and consumer. Clearlake currently has over $72 billion of assets under management, and its senior investment principals have led or co-led over 400 investments. The firm is headquartered in Santa Monica, CA with affiliates in Dallas, TX, London, UK and Dublin, Ireland. More information is available at www.clearlake.com and on Twitter @Clearlake.
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SOURCE SamaCare | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/06/01/samacare-cloud-based-prior-authorization-platform-specialty-medications-closes-12m-series-expand-companys-reach/ | 2022-06-01T11:20:52Z |
Well-established, women-owned Reno trucking company is revving its engine for a major expansion
RENO, Nev., July 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Full Tilt Logistics, a multigenerational family-owned logistics, transportation and warehousing company, today announced a massive expansion of its operation. The company acquired a new 250,000-square-foot warehouse space located on Prototype Drive in South Reno. The expansion will allow the company to hire additional staff.
Strategically positioned in Northern Nevada, Full Tilt is able to deliver goods nationwide and can distribute to the eleven Western states within 24 hours. Full Tilt Logistics' headquarters and the company's new warehouse are at the epicenter of a massive transportation network on two major highway corridors: Interstate 80 and U.S. Highway 395.
"We are so fortunate to have a loyal customer base already. Now we can easily accommodate our existing customers' growing needs, and make room for many new customers," said Tiffany Novich, President of Full Tilt Logistic, "We have been building this business with intention for almost a decade and it's exciting to see our vision coming to fruition."
The new facility has 12 service doors allowing trucks to load and unload goods. The company expects 50 + employees on site, helping to expand not only the company but also generate local jobs.
A fast-growing women-owned business, Full Tilt Logistics has found incredible success in the third-party logistics (3PL) industry by focusing on customer service and building strong customer relationships. Full Tilt Logistics prides itself on being able to deliver shipments faster and at a lower cost than competitors. Full Tilt Logistics supports veteran employment hiring practices; 16% of the company's staff are U.S. military veterans.
Full Tilt Logistics is a family-owned Reno, Nev. logistics, transportation and warehousing company specializing in high value time sensitive freight such as gaming, blanket wrap, trade show, exhibits and special events. Full Tilt prides itself on being a team of strategic problem solvers who take a holistic approach to getting the most out of every network.
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SOURCE Full Tilt Logistics | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/07/13/full-tilt-logistics-announces-massive-expansion-nationwide-shipping-warehousing-distribution-business/ | 2022-07-13T17:07:37Z |
The partnership expands Infineon's ModusToolbox™ software ecosystem to Edge Impulse's studio environment, allowing for easy configuration of the high-performance, low-power PSoC™ 6 MCU series for edge ML applications.
SAN JOSE, Calif., Sept. 13, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Edge Impulse and Infineon have announced cross-platform support for their software environments, allowing for high-powered, flexible machine learning development on the Infineon PSoC™ 6 microcontroller series.
The collaboration gives Edge Impulse studio users access to ModusToolbox™, Infineon's MCU configuration software, allowing them to natively develop and configure applications on the PSoC-6™-based CY8CKIT-062S2 Pioneer Kit coupled with the CY8CKIT-028-SENSE Dev Kit, which incorporates accelerometer, gyroscope, magnetometer, microphone, pressure, and temperature sensors. Data from these sensors can now be used with Edge Impulse for the easy generation of TinyML-based AI models, optimized for low-power, private, low-cloud-cost edge environments. These models can then be deployed on any PSoC™ 6-based MCU.
Edge Impulse, the leading development platform for ML on edge devices, allows developers to quickly and easily create and optimize solutions with real-world data. The company's platform streamlines the entire process of collecting and structuring datasets, designing ML algorithms with ready-made building blocks, validating the models with real-time data, and deploying the fully optimized production-ready result to an edge target such as the PSoC™ 6. The Edge Impulse development platform, already in use by thousands of companies, stands to unlock massive value across every industry, with millions of developers making billions of devices smarter.
PSoC™ 6 MCUs offer Arm® Cortex® M4 plus M0+ chip architecture, multiple wired and wireless connectivity options, configurable voltage and frequency settings, built-in hardware-based security, state-of-the-art capacitive interfaces, and more, on a single chip. Their combination of power, efficiency, size, and programmability make them perfectly suited for IoT, wearable, or remote monitoring purposes that require the ability to run advanced algorithms.
"We couldn't be more excited to work with Infineon to support PSoC™ 6 development," said Zach Shelby, CEO and co-founder of Edge Impulse. "This is a proven hardware platform that offers an undeniable set of features, and is the perfect companion to Edge Impulse for almost any use case."
"With the performance and extremely low power design of the PSoC™ 6, running TinyML models down at the edge becomes even more capable than before. By using Edge Impulse to simplify the barrier to machine learning, product makers can focus on real data they collect from the device to make an innovative and effective product," said Danny Watson, Director, Software Product Marketing Manager of Infineon Technologies.
Infineon and Edge Impulse will be demonstrating the Cypress PSoC™ 6 integration at the upcoming Imagine conference; for more information and to register, visit edgeimpulse.com/imagine.
Edge Impulse is the leading machine learning platform, enabling all enterprises to build smarter edge products. Their technology empowers developers to bring more ML products to market faster, and helps enterprise teams rapidly develop industry-specific solutions in weeks instead of years. The Edge Impulse platform provides powerful automation and low-code capabilities to make it easier to build valuable datasets and develop advanced ML with streaming data. With over 40,000 developers, and partnerships with the top silicon vendors, Edge Impulse offers a seamless integration experience to validate and deploy with confidence across the largest hardware ecosystem. To learn more, visit edgeimpulse.com.
Infineon Technologies AG is a world leader in semiconductor solutions that make life easier, safer and greener. Microelectronics from Infineon are the key to a better future. With around 50,280 employees worldwide, Infineon generated revenue of about €11.1 billion in the 2021 fiscal year (ending September 30th) and is one of the ten largest semiconductor companies worldwide.
Infineon is listed on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange (ticker symbol: IFX) and in the USA on the over-the-counter market OTCQX International Premier (ticker symbol: IFNNY).
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SOURCE Edge Impulse | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/09/13/edge-impulse-infineon-announce-machine-learning-software-support-psoc-6-microcontrollers/ | 2022-09-13T20:14:28Z |
- Two leading companies joined forces to develop a new Ready-To-Use solution platform based on EZ-fill® pre-sterilized platform
- Seamless integration into standard fill and finish lines
- Significant increase in quality and efficiency
DÜSSELDORF, Germany and PIOMBINO DESE, Italy, Sept. 7, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Gerresheimer AG, a leading global provider of healthcare & beauty and drug delivery systems for pharma, biotech and cosmetics and Stevanato Group S.p.A. (NYSE: STVN), a global provider of drug containment, drug delivery and diagnostic solutions to the pharmaceutical, biotechnology and life sciences industries announce that they have jointly developed a high-end Ready-To-Use (RTU) solution platform with an initial focus on vials, based on Stevanato Group's market-leading EZ-fill® technology. This collaboration is projected to help customers gain efficiencies, improve the quality standard, increase speed to market, reduce total cost of ownership (TCO) and help mitigate supply chain risk.
Gerresheimer AG and Stevanato Group are addressing rising demand for RTU vials in the market and the partnership serves as a market enabler to fully support customers' evolving needs and establish a gold standard in the industrial filling process. The collaboration aims to make RTU vials a standard, available to a wide number of pharma companies globally – offering premium quality solutions to patients and reducing complexity for pharma operations. The new solution will be available to other players in the market to standardize fill-finish operations from early phase drug development to commercialization. The new RTU solution platform from Gerresheimer AG and Stevanato Group will share the same secondary packaging, production process and sterilization method, ensuring consistent available capacity and a reliable double sourcing to the pharmaceutical industry. A hallmark of the new RTU platform is a significant reduction in particles, improving the overall quality and performance of the RTU solutions. In addition, customers can count on a high-end solution made by two major players in the drug containment industry with a long history of innovation. The new jointly developed vial platform and trademark will be presented in detail to the market at the CPhI Worldwide Frankfurt in November 2022.
"The new developed RTU platform stands out in terms of quality, TCO and sustainability and takes the use of RTU solutions like vials and, in the future, cartridges to a new level," said Dr. Lukas Burkhardt, Member of the Management Board of Gerresheimer AG. "Due to the strong reduction of the particle load, the quality is significantly increased. Our new innovative solution will convince the market to significantly accelerate the conversion from bulk to RTU Vials."
"Our EZ-fill® vial platform is the market's most established choice for pre-sterilized containers, and this enhanced version for RTU vials will bring to the market its full potential in terms of quality, flexibility and value for Pharmaceutical Companies and CMOs," said Mauro Stocchi, Chief Business Officer at Stevanato Group. "Through our collaboration with Gerresheimer AG, we are responding to market demand and we expect to achieve another important milestone in creating a reliable ecosystem to support, accelerate and de-risk the conversion from bulk to EZ-fill® vials already underway in the market."
For more information, visit www.gerresheimer.com or www.stevanatogroup.com
Contact Press Gerresheimer AG
Ueli Utzinger
Group Senior Director Marketing & Communication
T +49 211 6181-250
ueli.utzinger@gerresheimer.com
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SOURCE Gerresheimer AG | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/09/07/gerresheimer-ag-stevanato-group-announce-collaboration-development-an-innovative-ready-to-use-vial-platform-pharmaceutical-industry/ | 2022-09-07T11:52:58Z |
First details on how Hyundai Motor Group is integrating extensive mobility capabilities to develop commercial urban and regional air vehicles and surrounding market
WASHINGTON and FARNBOROUGH, United Kingdom, July 18, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Supernal (the Company) today revealed its initial eVTOL vehicle cabin concept at Farnborough International Airshow, providing the first look at how Hyundai Motor Group (the Group) is integrating automotive capabilities to develop the Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) market.
Supernal partnered with the Group's design studios to create the cabin concept as the Company works to certify its eVTOL vehicle for commercial use in the United States starting in 2028 – and in the E.U. and U.K. shortly after. Beyond the vehicle, Supernal is collaborating with external partners and the Group's more than 50 affiliates – which span automobiles, automotive parts, construction, robotics and autonomous driving – to responsibly co-create the expansive AAM value chain.
"In order for Advanced Air Mobility to become a wide-spread mode of transportation, every detail – from the passenger experience to regulations and infrastructure – needs to be addressed from the start and work in lockstep with one another," said Jaiwon Shin, President of Hyundai Motor Group and CEO of Supernal. "Leveraging Hyundai Motor Group's mobility capabilities, Supernal is investing time and resources upfront to ensure the industry can scale to the masses in the coming decades and reach its exciting potential."
Supernal's five-seat cabin concept provides clues to how the Company is harnessing automotive design processes and materials – while meeting commercial aviation's highest safety standards – to optimize the AAM passenger experience and price-point. The design embodies biomimicry philosophy – a butterfly in this case – and the Company's pillars of safety above all, human-centered design and environmental responsibility.
"Supernal is partnering with Hyundai Motor Group's top automotive designers to develop our eVTOL vehicle for manufacturability and wide-spread public acceptance," Shin added. "We are taking the time to create a safe, light-weight commercial eVTOL that provides our future passengers with the security and comfort they find in their own cars."
The team of engineers and designers utilized the automotive industry's reductive design approach to create the light-weight interior cabin, which is made of forged carbon fiber. Ergonomically contoured seats offer a cocoon-like environment for passengers. Deployable seat consoles mimic automobile center consoles and provide a charging station and stowage compartment for personal items. Grab handles built into the cabin doors and seatbacks assist with ingress and egress. A combination of lighting – including overhead lights inspired by automobile sunroofs – adjusts with the various stages of flight to emulate a "light therapy" effect. The cabin layout draws on automotive space innovation with a minimized bulkhead, which allows for generous headroom and package functionalities.
With sustainability as a priority, the cabin concept incorporates materials such as advanced recyclable carbon fiber reinforced thermoplastic, durable plant-based leather, recycled plastic fabric and responsibly sourced woods. The seat frame also utilizes excess raw material from the airframe manufacturing process.
"The Supernal eVTOL vehicle draws on the competence of the Hyundai Motor Group and the skillset of experienced automotive designers, which allowed us to develop a new air mobility concept that is not only safe and rational but also highly emotional," said Luc Donckerwolke, Chief Creative Officer of Hyundai Motor Group.
The Group is leveraging its expansive mobility and mobility-enabling capabilities to develop a family of electric air vehicles, as well as the surrounding value chain.
Complementing U.S.-based Supernal's battery-powered eVTOL vehicle designed for intra-city passenger journeys starting in 2028, the Group's Korea-based division (the Division) focused on Regional Air Mobility is developing a hydrogen-powered mid-sized vehicle for regional – city-to-city – cargo and passenger journeys. The Division plans to launch service of its hydrogen vehicle in the 2030s.
Supernal and the Division are partnering with the Group's manufacturing innovation teams across the globe to create a robust high-rate, high-quality AAM manufacturing process that will produce electric air vehicles at scale – at an increasingly affordable price-point – over the coming decades.
"Hyundai Motor Group is working to leverage synergies between automotive's high-rate manufacturing capabilities and aerospace's high certification standards to build the foundation for everyday use of passenger and cargo air vehicles," Shin said.
Supernal's eVTOL vehicle cabin concept is on display at the Farnborough International Airshow (Exhibit Hall 1, Booth 1307). Click here to follow the Company's on-site activities. Click here to access the Company's media kit.
Supernal (Su·per·nal) is a U.S.-based mobility service provider on a mission to redefine how people move, connect, and live. We are developing an Advanced Air Mobility eVTOL vehicle and working to responsibly co-create the supporting ecosystem and integrate it into existing transit options. As part of Hyundai Motor Group, we are both a new business and an established company, with plans to harness our automotive manufacturing heritage to make Advanced Air Mobility accessible to the masses. Visit www.supernal.aero for more information and follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn.
Hyundai Motor Group is a global enterprise that has created a value chain based on mobility, steel, and construction, as well as logistics, finance, IT, and service. With about 250,000 employees worldwide, the Group's mobility brands include Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis. Armed with creative thinking, cooperative communication and the will to take on any challenges, we strive to create a better future for all. More information about Hyundai Motor Group, please see: www.hyundaimotorgroup.com.
Supernal Contacts:
Jennifer Darland
jennifer.darland@supernal.aero
Andre Carter
acarter@supernal.aero
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SOURCE Supernal | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/07/18/hyundai-motor-groups-supernal-unveils-evtol-vehicle-cabin-concept-2022-farnborough-international-airshow/ | 2022-07-18T11:37:30Z |
JJ Watt Presents Most Prestigious Award in High School Sports to Nation's Top Athletes
LOS ANGELES, July 20, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Tonight at the Gatorade High School Athlete of the Year awards, Kiki Rice was named the 2022 Gatorade Female High School Athlete of the Year and Colin Sahlman was named the 2022 Gatorade Male High School Athlete of the Year. Sahlman is the first-ever boys cross country athlete to win the award and Rice is further solidifying her multi-sport dominance, having won both the Gatorade Washington D.C. Girls Soccer and Basketball Player of the Year award twice in her high school career.
The winners were announced at Gatorade's first in-person awards show since 2019, with a completely new look and feel thanks to influential artist Drake Cereal and host Taylor Rooks. Gatorade revamped its historically intimate award show to welcome the next generation of athletes to the family with the hottest ticket in high school sports. The exclusive ceremony was attended by sports influencers, professional athletes and former Gatorade Players of the Year, including:
- Ashlyn Harris, NJ/NY Gotham FC, US Women's National Team goalkeeper and 2003-04 Gatorade National Girls Soccer Player of the Year
- Jaden Ivey, Detroit Pistons guard and fifth overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft
- Haley Jones, Stanford Women's Basketball point-forward, 2022 Pac-12 Player of the Year, and two-time Gatorade California Girls Basketball Player of the Year
- Renee Montgomery, former WNBA player and 2005-06 Gatorade New Jersey Girls Basketball Player of the Year
- JJ Watt, Arizona Cardinals defensive end, three-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year and 2017 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year
"We brought together our Gatorade National Players of the Year for a one-of-a-kind, star-studded award ceremony and after party to recognize and celebrate the nation's most outstanding high school student-athletes for their athletic excellence, academic achievement and exemplary character," said Gatorade President and General Manager Michael Del Pozzo. "Joining the likes of Paige Bueckers, Sydney McLaughlin and Jayson Tatum, there's no doubt this year's winners of the prestigious Gatorade Athlete of the Year award have incredibly bright futures ahead."
Making this year's celebration even more special, each of the 12 nominees is memorialized in an NFT, created in collaboration with Vayner3. These NFTs are available for sale to the public on OneOf.com/Gatorade through 5pm EST on July 20, 2022. The "Gatorade Game Changers: Player of the Year NFT Pack" is the brand's first foray into Web3 and Non-Fungible Tokens and proceeds from the sales (less expenses of OneOf.com to issue the NFTs) will be donated to Good Sports, a nonprofit that drives equitable access in youth sports and physical activity.
Established 37 years ago in 1985, the Gatorade Player of the Year program recognizes the nation's most elite high school athletes for their accomplishments on and off the field. Each year, a selection committee evaluates the nation's top talent to choose one state winner from each of the 50 states as well as Washington D.C., in 12 different sports: football, girls volleyball, boys and girls cross country, boys and girls basketball, baseball, softball, boys and girls soccer, and boys and girls track & field. From the 608 state winners, only 12 are selected as national winners for their individual sport and become nominees for Gatorade Athlete of the Year, which is awarded to the nation's top overall female and male high school athletes. With more than six million student-athletes who participate in the 12 sports awarded by Gatorade Player of the Year, competition is fierce for the most prestigious award in high school sports.
Gatorade has a long-standing history of serving athlete communities and knows playing sports has the power to change lives, with lasting cognitive, social and emotional benefits, as well as increased chances to succeed in school and go to college. Through Gatorade's "Play it Forward" platform, all Gatorade State Players of the Year have the opportunity to award a $1,000 grant to a local or national organization of their choosing that helps young athletes realize the benefits of playing sports. Gatorade also awards one spotlight grant of $10,000 for each of the 12 sports recognized by the program. To date, Gatorade Player of the Year winners' grants have totaled more than $3.5 million across more than 1,300 organizations. New this year, Gatorade gave an additional $20,000 grant to the first-ever Gatorade Play It Forward Alumni Award winner, presented at the Gatorade Athlete of the Year awards show.
2021-22 GATORADE HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETE OF THE YEAR AWARD WINNERS
Kiki Rice: Washington D.C.'s returning Gatorade Girls Basketball Player of the Year, Rice of Sidwell Friends School led the Quakers to a 28-0 record and the DCSAA Tournament title this past season, earning her squad the nation's No. 1 national ranking by MaxPreps. Rice averaged 15.8 points, 7.0 rebounds, 5.1 assists and 2.6 steals per game and also lifted Sidwell Friends to the ISL Division AA tournament championship. Below are additional facts about Rice:
- Won a gold medal with the 2021 USA Basketball U18 Junior National 3x3 Team at the World Cup in Hungary
- Won a gold medal with the U16 National Team at the 2019 FIBA Americas Championships in Chile
- McDonald's All-American Game selection and won the 2022 Naismith Award
- In addition to girls basketball, also a two-time Gatorade Washington D.C. Girls Soccer Player of the Year (2018-19 & 2020-21)
- Volunteers locally with So Others Might Eat, as a mentor to younger Sidwell Friends students and has donated her time as a veteran leader in the Sidwell Friends Athletic Leadership Academy
- Maintained a B-plus average in the classroom
- Signed a National Letter of Intent to play basketball on scholarship at UCLA this fall
Colin Sahlman: California's returning Gatorade Boys Cross Country Player of the Year, Sahlman of Newbury Park High School (Newbury Park, Calif.) raced to the individual national title at the Garmin RunningLane Cross Country Championships this past season with a time of 14:03.3, the fastest 5K time in US prep history, while also leading the Panthers to a national championship as a team. Below are additional facts about Sahlman:
- Won the Division I state championship in 14:26.5, helping Newbury Park capture first place as a team
- Broke the tape at the Clovis Invitational, the Marmonte League finals and the Southern Section Championships
- Volunteers locally feeding the homeless on behalf of St. Patrick's Episcopal Church, and has donated his time as a coach for the Camarillo Cosmos Youth Track Program and as a counselor at the Mile High Running Camp in Big Bear
- Maintained a 3.47 GPA in the classroom
- Signed a National Letter of Intent to run on scholarship at Northern Arizona University this fall
2021-22 GATORADE HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETE OF THE YEAR AWARD NOMINEES
The 12 Gatorade National Players of the Year are nominees for Gatorade High School Athlete of the Year, awarded to one male and one female. The nominees will walk the red carpet ahead of the ESPYs and be featured during the show, which airs live on ABC at 8:00 p.m. ET.
Below were this year's nominees:
PAST GATORADE HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETE OF THE YEAR AWARD WINNERS
Past Gatorade Player of the Year award recipients have gone on to win hundreds of professional and college championships, and many have also turned into pillars in their communities, becoming coaches, business owners and educators.
To learn more about the Gatorade High School Athlete of the Year awards and Gatorade Player of the Year program, visit playeroftheyear.gatorade.com or follow us on social media on Facebook at facebook.com/GatoradePOY, Instagram at instagram.com/Gatorade and Twitter at twitter.com/Gatorade.
About Gatorade
The Gatorade Company, a division of PepsiCo (NASDAQ: PEP), meets the needs of consumers who participate in sports and fitness, through brands that include Gatorade, Propel, Muscle Milk, and Evolve. The solutions they provide are driven by a deep understanding of the unique occasions and needs across athletic activity. Gatorade, their marquee brand, is underpinned by a 56-year history of studying the best athletes in the world, and sports nutrition research by the Gatorade Sport Science Institute, allowing it to provide scientifically formulated products that meet athletes' needs both on and off the field. For more information and a full list of products, please visit www.gatorade.com.
About PepsiCo
PepsiCo products are enjoyed by consumers more than one billion times a day in more than 200 countries and territories around the world. PepsiCo generated more than $79 billion in net revenue in 2021, driven by a complementary beverage and convenient foods portfolio that includes Lay's, Doritos, Cheetos, Gatorade, Pepsi-Cola, Mountain Dew, Quaker, and SodaStream. PepsiCo's product portfolio includes a wide range of enjoyable foods and beverages, including many iconic brands that generate more than $1 billion each in estimated annual retail sales.
Guiding PepsiCo is our vision to Be the Global Leader in Beverages and Convenient Foods by Winning with PepsiCo Positive (pep+). pep+ is our strategic end-to-end transformation that puts sustainability at the center of how we will create value and growth by operating within planetary boundaries and inspiring positive change for planet and people. For more information, visit www.pepsico.com.
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SOURCE The Gatorade Company | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/07/20/kiki-rice-colin-sahlman-named-gatorade-high-school-athletes-year/ | 2022-07-20T06:23:07Z |
Inflation Reduction Act of 2022
HOUSTON, Aug. 10, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Fidelis New Energy, a new, clean energy asset developer, commends the Senate on passage of the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, and urges Members of the U.S. House of Representatives to vote in favor of the bill on Friday.
This historic and transformative legislation was the result of months of negotiations, contains many hard-earned compromises and is a well-crafted bill. When passed it will provide grants and tax credits for renewable fuels used for transportation and power production, and carbon sequestration that collectively, at scale, will help decarbonize our country.
Renewable Diesel (RD) and Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), produced from natural feedstocks, the sequestration of the associated carbon dioxide and the production of clean hydrogen as a fuel supply, is a process that tackles the issue of climate change immediately and cost effectively. Increasing the clean fuel supply and sources alleviates inflation impact and increases resiliency to future energy supply shocks.
The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 also provides the framework and certainty that the capital markets demand in order to invest the substantial capital required to develop, design and construct these assets.
"We fully support the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022," said Dan Shapiro, CEO and co-founder of Fidelis. "This forward-thinking legislation takes a balanced approach to increase domestic energy production and improve our country's energy infrastructure while reducing carbon emissions. We urge every Member of the House of Representatives to vote in favor of the bill as written and passed by the Senate."
Fidelis New Energy is an energy transition company driving decarbonization through investments in renewable fuels, low carbon intensity products, and carbon capture & sequestration.
The Fidelis investment approach builds upon our proprietary ESG centric RACER™ framework where we utilize a diverse set of industry experts to select attractive markets and projects, then work collaboratively and iteratively to improve environmental as well as financial performance utilizing proven technologies from leading global providers.
Fidelis New Energy is headquartered in Houston, TX with offices in Baton Rouge, LA and Copenhagen, Denmark. For more information, visit www.fidelisnewenergy.com
FOR MORE INFORMATION
Gardner Boulmay III
(832) 551-3300
gardner@fidelisinfra.com
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SOURCE Fidelis New Energy, LLC | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/08/10/fidelis-new-energy-applauds-senate-bill-supporting-climate-change-energy-security-while-reducing-inflation/ | 2022-08-10T10:55:35Z |
The Rx Locking Cap plays a pivotal role in the prevention of prescription medication abuse.
SACRAMENTO, Calif., April 8, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Sacramento company Gatekeeper Innovation Inc. was awarded a patent for its Rx Locking Cap, an abuse-deterrent tamper-evident locking cap that fits existing prescription vials and is designed to help reduce misuse, abuse, and accidental poisonings from medication in the home.
Addressing the opioid epidemic and misuse and abuse of other medications is a complex problem that requires a comprehensive approach. A National Survey on Drug Use and Health shows that over 70 percent of people who abused prescription pain relievers got them from friends or relatives. While some are knowingly complicit in this type of prescription misuse, others are unwitting suppliers. Typical prescription bottles are easy to access when kept unsecured in the home. The consequences of rx misuse can be severe; according to the CDC, 2 out of 3 overdose deaths involve an opioid.
COVID has further complicated this, impacting mental health and contributing to a record number of overdose deaths in 2021 (over 100,000 deaths). Experts note that factors related to the pandemic likely exacerbated these trends.
The Rx Locking Cap plays a critical role in prevention and early intervention with a mission to save lives endangered by prescription drug abuse. The medication safekeeping device has been distributed to more than 9,000 Walgreens, close to 6,000 CVS locations. It is the first medication safe-storage device to receive health plan reimbursement for controlled substance prescriptions patients.
This is the fourth patent awarded to Gatekeeper Innovation, Inc. Gatekeeper founders Joseph Simpson and Nathan Langley are the inventors behind both patents. Simpson wanted to create a way to make it harder for teens to gain access to prescription medications in the home after his own family experienced opioid abuse resulting from a unauthorized access to prescription medications. His brush with the opioid epidemic inspired Simpson to develop a solution. He partnered with Langley to invent the original Safer Lock device, Gatekeeper Innovation Inc.'s flagship product, as well as the Safer Lock Box and Rx Locking Cap.
About Gatekeeper Innovation Inc: Gatekeeper Innovation Inc. is a Sacramento-based company offering tamper-evident and abuse-deterrent technology while supporting medication adherence. Gatekeeper Innovation's mission is to provide options for securing prescription medications to help prevent Diversion and Substance Use Disorder. To learn more, visit gatekeeperinnovation.com
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SOURCE Gatekeeper Innovation Inc | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/04/08/gatekeeper-innovation-awarded-fourth-patent-locking-medication-device/ | 2022-04-08T21:10:11Z |
ATLANTA, Aug. 4, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Kevin L. Henderson, Vice President of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) Capabilities and People Strategies at UnitedHealth Group, joins the INROADS National Board of Directors. UnitedHealth Group has a longstanding partnership with INROADS and supports students from across the country by placing them in impactful internship opportunities over the last 23 years.
"Kevin is a strong addition to the INROADS National Board of Directors. His extensive knowledge in DEI and talent development is exactly the expertise we need to help our organization deliver on our mission," said Forest T. Harper, Jr. president and CEO, INROADS.
Prior to joining UnitedHealth Group, Henderson served in various Human Capital leadership roles at Eli Lilly and Company for over 14 years. In addition to DEI, his experience includes Human Capital strategy, business partnership, talent management, total rewards, corporate accounting and internal audit. Henderson has extensive international experience and served as the Senior Human Resources Director for Eli Lilly Australia, New Zealand, and the North Asia Pacific Hub.
Henderson's professional experience complements the INROADS vision to create a world where leaders enrich the composition and culture of business and social communities through diversity and inclusion. At UnitedHealth Group, he is responsible for integrating DEI strategies into core talent processes, including recruitment, development, retention and advancement of talent while partnering closely with the Talent Offices, Chief People Officers and other key stakeholders.
"I know firsthand the powerful impact INROADS has on young diverse talent, especially young Black men. I'm humbled take on a new leadership role with an organization that helps to open doors, pave new paths and accelerate the development for our future leaders," said Henderson.
Henderson holds a Bachelor of Science from DePaul University in Chicago and a Master of Business Administration from Duke University in Durham, North Carolina. While he has traveled the world, Henderson's favorite place is Mississippi.
Founded in 1970, INROADS delivers innovative programs and creative solutions that identify, accelerate, and elevate the development of underrepresented talent throughout their careers. Through this development, students become equipped for corporate and community leadership that affects community renewal, social change and elevates economic status and quality of life. INROADS has more than 30,000 alumni, over 900 interns and serves 4,000+ students and 200 corporate clients. Learn more at INROADS.org and connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn: @INROADSInc.
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SOURCE INROADS | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/08/04/inroads-names-unitedhealth-groups-kevin-l-henderson-national-board-directors/ | 2022-08-04T19:33:22Z |
Optimizing Container Environments for Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Microsoft Azure Cloud Users to Meet Agility Needs and Risk Tolerance
PALO ALTO, Calif., Sept. 7, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Virtana, a leading provider of AI-driven solutions for hybrid cloud management and monitoring, announces a new Kubernetes strategy that will deliver container support across the full portfolio of Virtana Platform solutions. This strategy will deliver actionable infrastructure insights for optimal performance, cost, and capacity of business applications.
The first deliverable of this strategy is a rightsizing feature for container environments through Virtana Platform's cloud cost optimization solution. With this capability, Virtana Platform users will have access to container rightsizing recommendations alongside ones for traditional compute — all within the Costs Savings Opportunities dashboard of Virtana Platform.
Enterprises are increasingly adopting Kubernetes to accelerate software development, scale deployment, and enable faster digital transformation. Gartner® estimates1 that by 2026 more than 90% of global organizations will be running containerized applications in production (an increase from fewer than 40% in 2020). IDC reports2 that 80% of new workloads are being developed in containers.
Given this rapid spike in Kubernetes usage, AWS and Azure users need a tool that provides cost savings for both traditional compute and containerized/serverless compute resources. As of today, most users do not appropriately constrain, monitor, or manage their Kubernetes containers, leading to excess spend and unpredictable performance.
"There is a huge opportunity to unlock development speed, flexibility, and operational efficiency through container usage," said Jon Cyr, Head of Product for Virtana. "Yet many enterprises leveraging containers forget the basics of rightsizing and monitoring before and during development, leading to huge end of month bills and unnecessary cloud spend."
Jon continued: "Virtana's strategy is to address the challenges that arise through a customer's cloud native journey. We offer the unique ability to trace the entire data path from container to compute, network, and storage."
Virtana collects performance metrics from customers' container environments through the use of Prometheus, the leading open source monitoring tool for Kubernetes. Through Virtana Platform, the company then analyzes the metrics to provide insight and deliver prescriptive rightsizing recommendations for Amazon's Elastic Kubernetes Service (EKS) and Microsoft's Azure Kubernetes Service (AKS) containers. From these recommendations, users can tailor the default rightsizing based on constraints for CPU and memory, to meet specific business requirements and risk tolerance.
- Rightsizes traditional compute and containers across multiple clouds in one tool
- Tune sizing based on organization's risk tolerance with what-if analysis that includes CPU and memory
- Automatically optimize instances with rightsizing recommendations
- Adjust to real-time changes in cloud service provider offerings to optimize cost structures
- Analyzes performance metrics using open source collection
"Containers and Kubernetes are becoming popular technologies for cloud-native applications and have significantly grown in adoption during the past five years. Gartner estimates that more than one-third of enterprises are running containerized workloads in production and nearly 10% of total workloads run on containers today. Despite the apparent progress, the container ecosystem continues to be chaotic, fast paced and fragmented," said Arun Chandrasekaran and Wataru Katsurashima of Gartner in The Innovation Leader's Guide to Navigating the Cloud-Native Container Ecosystem.
This new Kubernetes optimization feature will be available for all Virtana Platform customers with a Pro license, with additional configuration.
Companies can try Virtana Platform's cloud cost management and optimization for free at virtana.com/optimize-free-tier. Free trial accounts are able to access this Kubernetes feature and view a limited number of recommendations.
GARTNER is a registered trademark and service mark of Gartner, Inc. and/or its affiliates in the U.S. and internationally and is used herein with permission. All rights reserved.
Virtana provides a unified multi-cloud management platform to simplify the optimization, migration, and monitoring of application workloads across public, private, and hybrid cloud environments. The cloud-agnostic SaaS platform allows enterprises to efficiently plan their cloud migrations and then right size workloads across their hybrid cloud infrastructure for performance, capacity, and cost—most customers see 25% cloud cost savings or more within the first 10 days of use. Try Virtana's optimization module for free at virtana.com/optimize-free-tier.
Virtana was named Coolest Cloud Company by CRN, Top Cloud Leader Reducing Public Cloud Costs by Business Insider, Best Company Culture by Comparably, and a Customer First company by Gartner.
For industry insight from Virtana, visit: Twitter | LinkedIn | Virtana #KnowBeforeYouGo
1 Gartner, The Innovation Leader's Guide to Navigating the Cloud-Native Container Ecosystem, Arun Chandrasekaran, Wataru Katsurashima, August 18, 2021
2 IDC, Containerizing Key Business Workloads: Meeting End-to-End Kubernetes Data Service Needs for Enterprise Applications, Archana Venkatraman, May 2021
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SOURCE Virtana | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/09/07/virtana-launches-kubernetes-support-strategy-across-portfolio-with-container-rightsizing-infrastructure-monitoring-cloud-cost-optimization/ | 2022-09-07T13:48:02Z |
Veteran Industry Executive to Lead National Expansion of Innovative Fintech Healthcare Payments Solution
MILWAUKEE, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Health Payment Systems, Inc. (HPS) and PayMedix announced today the appointment of Brian Marsella, a 30-year veteran executive in the employee benefits and insurance industries, as president of the firm and its fast-growing fintech healthcare payments solution, PayMedix.
Marsella joins as HPS|PayMedix continues the national expansion of PayMedix, which is solving the problem of high out-of-pocket costs for all by guaranteeing upfront payments to all in-network providers and flexible repayment plans for all patients regardless of their credit history.
Marsella brings to HPS|PayMedix an extensive background in the benefits consulting and insurance industries with a proven track record in sales and developing consultative relationships with customers, consultants/brokers, hospital administrators, and community leaders.
Marsella will be replacing President & COO, Terry Rowinski. Terry will depart HPS|PayMedix within the month as he joins IMS Integrated Merchandising Solutions, a division of Omnicom Group, as Chief Operating Officer.
"The expanded PayMedix solution, launched in February, has quickly achieved significant interest from employers, providers, and TPAs. In just a few months, our pipeline has grown five times what it was last year. We would like to thank Terry for his hard work, dedication, and leadership at the firm and look forward to welcoming Brian to our team," said Tom Policelli, CEO HPS|PayMedix. "Brian's leadership roles at national insurance companies, in addition to his work consulting HR leaders at large customer organizations, will serve PayMedix well as we grow our business."
Most recently, Marsella served as Market President for the Midwest region at Cigna, where he oversaw network affordability, growth, community activity, and culture in the region. His role encompassed the oversight of relationships with hospitals and providers in addition to directly overseeing growth within the 500 to 5,000 employer segments. Marsella previously spent more than a decade at the firm in underwriting, client management, new business development and sales. Prior to re-joining Cigna, Marsella served as a Partner in the Health & Benefits group at Mercer, the world's largest human resources consulting firm, where he led engagements with large and jumbo clients in strategy, program design, vendor management and selection approaches. Previously, he rose through the ranks at Aetna for more than a decade serving in increasingly prominent sales and market leadership positions, becoming VP of Large Case Sales & Producer Relations. Marsella received his MBA in Marketing and International Business from Northwestern University's Kellogg School of Management.
A passionate community leader and team builder, Brian's work in his previous roles resulted in the deployment of over $2 million in funds annually to hospital-based initiatives, at-risk youth programs and other initiatives to combat the social determinants of health. He established a Diversity, Equity & Inclusion committee for Cigna's Midwest market and led employee well-being initiatives during the pandemic. He currently serves as the Board Chair of Erie Family Health Centers, a federally qualified health center focused on providing care to low-income individuals, predominately within the Latino population of the Chicagoland area. He is a former member of the Illinois Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and is a member of the Economic Club of Chicago.
"Having worked across the worlds of insurance and employee benefits consulting for the better part of the last three decades, I have witnessed first-hand the challenges our industry faces in operating within a system that has become increasingly complex, costly and confusing for consumers who just want to know how much they owe for the care they are provided and find ways to finance the costs," said Marsella. "PayMedix has a fresh and winning approach to fixing this broken system from the center with its SuperEOB, an elegant solution that works for all – providers, employers, TPAs, and most importantly, patients. I'm looking forward to being part of a fast-paced, nimble, and entrepreneurial operation with such enormous growth potential."
About PayMedix
PayMedix, which began as the financing arm of Wisconsin-based HPS over a decade ago, is the only company solving the problem of high out-of-pocket costs for everyone: providers, patients, employers and TPAs. By guaranteeing payments to providers and credit for all patients, PayMedix is changing the way people access, use, and pay for healthcare. PayMedix has processed more than $5 billion in medical payments for hospital systems and physician practices and can be implemented in conjunction with any PPO or HMO network.
About HPS
Health Payment Systems (HPS) is a privately held healthcare technology and services organization with solutions that reduce the cost and complexity of the healthcare payments process to benefit providers, employers, patients and TPAs.
Headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, HPS has an independent network of 96 hospital facilities and more than 24,000 individual provider locations.
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SOURCE HPS/PayMedix | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/08/09/hpspaymedix-names-brian-marsella-president/ | 2022-08-09T15:53:22Z |
NEW YORK, July 5, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Pomerantz LLP announces that a class action lawsuit has been filed against Spero Therapeutics, Inc. ("Spero" or the "Company") (NASDAQ: SPRO) and certain of its officers. The class action, filed in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of New York, and docketed under 22-cv-03125, is on behalf of a class consisting of all persons and entities other than Defendants that purchased or otherwise acquired Spero securities between October 28, 2021 and May 2, 2022, both dates inclusive (the "Class Period"), seeking to recover damages caused by Defendants' violations of the federal securities laws and to pursue remedies under Sections 10(b) and 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the "Exchange Act") and Rule 10b-5 promulgated thereunder, against the Company and certain of its top officials.
If you are a shareholder who purchased or otherwise acquired Spero securities during the Class Period, you have until July 25, 2022 to ask the Court to appoint you as Lead Plaintiff for the class. A copy of the Complaint can be obtained at www.pomerantzlaw.com. To discuss this action, contact Robert S. Willoughby at newaction@pomlaw.com or 888.476.6529 (or 888.4-POMLAW), toll-free, Ext. 7980. Those who inquire by e-mail are encouraged to include their mailing address, telephone number, and the number of shares purchased.
Spero, a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company, focuses on identifying, developing, and commercializing treatments for multi-drug resistant bacterial infections and rare diseases in the United States. The Company's product candidates include Tebipenem Pivoxil Hydrobromide (HBr), an oral carbapenem-class antibiotic to treat complicated urinary tract infections, including pyelonephritis for adults.
On October 28, 2021, Spero announced that it had submitted a New Drug Application ("NDA") to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration ("FDA") for Tebipenem HBr for the Treatment of Complicated Urinary Tract Infections including Pyelonephritis (the "Tebipenem HBr NDA").
The complaint alleges that, throughout the Class Period, Defendants made materially false and misleading statements regarding the Company's business, operations, and prospects. Specifically, Defendants made false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (i) the data submitted in support of the Tebipenem HBr NDA were insufficient to obtain FDA approval; (ii) accordingly, it was unlikely that the FDA would approve the Tebipenem HBr NDA in its current form; (iii) the foregoing would necessitate a significant workforce reduction and restructuring of Spero's operations; and (iv) as a result, the Company's public statements were materially false and misleading at all relevant times.
On March 31, 2022, Spero issued a press release announcing the Company's fourth quarter and full year 2021 financial results. In the press release, Spero disclosed that "[t]he U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has notified Spero that, as part of its ongoing review of Spero's New Drug Application (NDA) for tebipenem HBr, it has identified deficiencies that preclude discussion of labeling and post-marketing requirements/commitments at this time."
On this news, Spero's stock price fell $1.59 per share, or 18.27%, to close at $7.11 per share on April 1, 2022.
Then on May 3, 2022, Spero issued a press release announcing "that it will immediately defer current commercialization activities for tebipenem HBr based on feedback from a recent Late Cycle Meeting with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regarding Spero's New Drug Application (NDA) for tebipenem HBr[,]" and that, "[a]lthough the review is still ongoing and the FDA has not yet made any final determination regarding approvability, the discussion suggested that the data package may be insufficient to support approval during this review cycle." Specifically, the FDA advised the Company, in relevant part, that the FDA's separate analysis of the relevant study population had "reduce[d] the number of evaluable patients in the primary analysis population compared with those resulting from the trial's pre-specified micro-ITT population as outlined in the statistical analysis plan and [a]s a result, the FDA considers that the pre-specified non-inferiority margin of -12.5% was not met." Further, the press release advised that, "[i]n connection with this development, Spero announced that it is undertaking a reduction in its workforce by approximately 75% and a restructuring of its operations to reduce operating costs and reallocate resources."
On this news, Spero's stock price fell $3.24 per share, or 63.65%, to close at $1.85 per share on May 3, 2022.
Pomerantz LLP, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, Paris, and Tel Aviv, is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, Pomerantz pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 85 years later, Pomerantz continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered numerous multimillion-dollar damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomlaw.com
CONTACT:
Robert S. Willoughby
Pomerantz LLP
rswilloughby@pomlaw.com
888-476-6529 ext. 7980
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SOURCE Pomerantz LLP | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/07/06/shareholder-alert-pomerantz-law-firm-reminds-shareholders-with-losses-their-investment-spero-therapeutics-inc-class-action-lawsuit-upcoming-deadline-spro/ | 2022-07-06T02:46:05Z |
REHOVOT, Israel, Sept. 7, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Evogene Ltd. (Nasdaq: EVGN) (TASE: EVGN) (the "Company", "Evogene"), a leading computational biology company targeting to revolutionize life-science product discovery and development across multiple market segments, announced today that Ofer Haviv, Evogene's President and CEO, will attend virtually and present at the H.C. Wainwright 24th Annual Global Investment Hybrid Conference, 2022, taking place from September 12-14, 2022, in New York and also in a virtual format.
Mr. Haviv's presentation will focus on Evogene's disruptive technologies, its AI engines for biologic product discovery and development, and the ecosystem of product-focused subsidiaries and partnerships it has built around its technologies. The presentation will be available from the H.C. Wainwright conference website from 7am ET on Monday, September 12, 2022.
Mr. Haviv will also be available for 1-1 meetings with current and prospective investors via video conference on Tuesday, September 13, 2022. Interested investors are welcome to contact Evogene's Investor Relations team whose contact details are below, or for H.C. Wainwright clients, schedule meetings directly via the conference's online meeting platform.
About Evogene Ltd.:
Evogene (Nasdaq: EVGN) (TASE: EVGN) is a computational biology company aiming to revolutionize the development of life-science based products by utilizing cutting edge technologies to increase probability of success while reducing development time and cost. Evogene established three unique technological engines - MicroBoost AI, ChemPass AI and GeneRator AI – leveraging Big Data and Artificial Intelligence and incorporating deep multidisciplinary understanding in life sciences. Each technological engine is focused on the discovery and development of products based on one of the following core components: microbes (MicroBoost AI), small molecules (ChemPass AI), and genetic elements (GeneRator AI). Evogene uses its technological engines to develop products through subsidiaries and with strategic partners. Currently, Evogene's main subsidiaries utilize the technological engines to develop human microbiome-based therapeutics by Biomica Ltd., medical cannabis products by Canonic Ltd., ag-chemicals by Ag Plenus Ltd. and ag-biologicals by Lavie Bio Ltd. For more information, please visit: www.evogene.com.
Evogene Investor Contact:
Kenny Green
Email: kenny.green@evogene.com
Tel: +1 212 378 8040
Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/890385/Evogene_Logo.jpg
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SOURCE Evogene | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/09/07/evogene-present-hc-wainwright-24th-annual-global-investment-conference/ | 2022-09-07T12:03:21Z |
Free Digital Experience for Kids on Scholastic Home Base, a Donation of 100,000 Books in Partnership with Save the Children and New Retail Promotions
NEW YORK, June 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- According to data from the Kids & Family Reading Report ™: 7th Edition, 74 percent of kids agree that reading fiction and nonfiction helps them understand the world and additional research has displayed the academic benefits of summer reading to be substantial. To provide kids with access to books and stories that will support both academic and personal growth during the summer months, now through August 19th, kids can participate in the Scholastic Summer Reading program. The program is hosted on the fun, free and fully-moderated Scholastic Home Base, inviting kids to discover new favorite titles, join a community of readers, attend virtual author events, and help unlock a donation of 100,000 Scholastic books that will be distributed to children across rural America by nonprofit Save the Children.
To learn more about the Scholastic Summer Reading program, visit: www.scholastic.com/summer
To participate in the Scholastic Summer Reading program, kids will create an account on Scholastic Home Base, where they can:
- Read free e-books and enjoy author read-aloud videos. Kids will have access to select e-books in their entirety, which they can read all summer long. Titles include favorite series such as Goosebumps, Puppy Place, and I Survived. In addition, kids can also enjoy a variety of read-aloud videos including The Word Collector and Train.
- Attend virtual author events. Kids will be able to interact directly with bestselling and award-winning authors every month, including Scholastic summer reading ambassadors Claribel Ortega (Witchlings, Ghost Squad), Justin A. Reynolds (It's the End of the World and I'm in My Bathing Suit, Miles Morales graphic novel series), Christina Soontornvat (Diary of an Ice Princess series), and R.L. Stein (Goosebumps series). Each event includes a moderated chat function to encourage questions to the author as well as behind-the-scenes information, and sometimes kids even write a short piece with the authors.
- Help unlock a donation of 100,000 books. Every consecutive day a child checks into the Summer Zone, creates a Reading Streak™, which will help to unlock a donation of new, free print books from Scholastic. Save the Children will distribute the 100,000 books to kids in rural communities throughout the country with limited or no access to books.
- Earn reading milestones and rewards. Over the course of the summer, kids will have the ability to earn trophies, virtual items, and in-game tokens for their Reading Streak progress. Throughout each achievement level, kids will collect new virtual rewards and accessories for their digital avatar.
- Join a community of readers and create reading circles. Kids can interact with friends and make new companions along the way. The Summer Zone in Home Base provides kids with a social platform centered around reading: book-based games and activities, dance parties, and more. Kids can join and name their own "circles" to track group reading progress connected to the overall book donation, start community conversations, and write and share their own stories, comics, and art, all in their special group Newsfeed.
- Share reading progress. At any point throughout the summer, kids can download and print custom reports to share their individual reading progress with their caregiver and/or educator.
In addition, as part of the summer reading efforts, the Company has partnered with 2,500 retail locations across the country to offer special discounted editions of the first title in select chapter books and middle grade series. The Scholastic Series Summer Reading Promotion features an assortment of 12 kid-favorite series, including New York Times bestsellers Dragon Masters, I Survived, and The Baby-sitters Club.
"At Scholastic, we know the importance of keeping children reading through the summer. We also know that series books in particular have the power to create consistent and healthy reading habits in kids," said Ellie Berger, Executive Vice President and President, Trade Publishing, Scholastic. "We're committed to increasing access to books that will create life-long readers in a variety of ways: through our long-standing partnership with Save the Children, through our value-priced editions that can be found at retail and on our very own digital destination for kids, Scholastic Home Base."
"Children can accelerate learning when they read regularly over the summer. But nearly two out of three low-income kids don't have any books in their homes," said Betsy Zorio, Vice President of U.S. Programs for Save the Children. "Thanks to Scholastic and its summer reading campaign, Save the Children will be able to give books to young readers who need them most, sparking the joy of reading across rural America this summer."
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SOURCE Scholastic | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/06/03/scholastic-announces-annual-summer-reading-campaign/ | 2022-06-03T15:24:52Z |
Longtime localization industry expert to spearhead business growth and development by joining AI-based dubbing leader.
LOS ANGELES, Sept. 8, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Deepdub, the leader in AI-based entertainment localization, is thrilled to announce the appointment of industry veteran Jeny Nicholson to Vice President, Sales as they continue to expand their worldwide footprint.
Nicholson brings nearly two decades of entertainment industry experience to the role, having previously served as the Vice President, Sales for the Iyuno-SDI Group, a world leader in traditional dubbing and subtitling. In her role at Deepdub, Nicholson will be focused on developing and nurturing new client partnerships with studios, production houses, and global streaming organizations as well as ongoing client success.
"We couldn't be more excited that Jeny has joined our motivated team as we continue our mission of revolutionizing the future of dubbing and localization. Jeny brings an unparalleled level of talent and experience to this new position and understands the needs of entertainment organizations as they bring their content to worldwide audiences." Said Ofir Krakowski, CEO of Deepdub.
Co-founded by Ofir & Nir Krakowski, Tel Aviv-based Deepdub aims to bridge the language barrier and cultural gap of entertainment through high-quality localization. Deepdub's solution leverages cutting-edge AI technology with a human touch to allow content creators, owners, and distributors to extend their international reach and scale their offerings while maintaining the highest level of quality. For audiences, this means watching their favorite film and TV programs dubbed in native languages without losing any aspect of the original experience.
"I look forward to the opportunity to drive success for our clients and partners at this incredibly exciting stage of Deepdub's evolution and growth," Said Nicholson, "The team's innovative vision and pioneering technology is exactly the direction the industry needs to be heading and I am thrilled to help boost Deepdub's sales and client service teams as we accelerate and expand our worldwide offering.
Deepdub aims to bridge the language barrier and cultural gap of entertainment experiences to international audiences across TV, Film, Advertising, Gaming and e-learning. We provide high-quality localization service of entertainment content using deep learning and AI algorithms. Deepdub plugs into the post-production process of content owners and takes complete ownership of all of their localization needs. For more information about Deepdub, visit https://deepdub.ai/ or follow us on Twitter @deepdub_ai
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SOURCE Deepdub Ltd | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/09/08/deepdub-continues-global-expansion-with-appointment-jeny-nicholson-role-vp-sales/ | 2022-09-08T13:45:37Z |
Personality-Driven Play-By-Play to Bring 13 Regular Season Games, Select Bowl Game to Fans via YouTube Live, Facebook Live, Local Radio, The Varsity Network App
PLANO, Texas, June 30, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- LEARFIELD has announced the return of its personality-driven College Football Saturday Night live game broadcast for the 2022 season, with Mike Golic Jr. as analyst and Sloane Martin handling play-by-play.
The company will produce and distribute 13 marquee games on the weekly Saturday slate, with a selected bowl game to be announced later. LEARFIELD, as athletics multimedia rightsholder to nearly 200 universities across the U.S., is primed to bring college football fans the sights, sounds, play calls and special guests from choice matchups and rivalries week in and week out.
Fans have multiple ways in which they can catch the popular broadcast. LEARFIELD will deliver the live audio to more than 120 radio stations, SiriusXM and The Varsity Network app. Fans also can watch Golic Jr. and Martin call the game from inside the stadium via on-demand Booth Cam at Facebook Live @CollegeFootballSaturdayNight or YouTube Live at College Football Saturday Night from LEARFIELD. All 13 games will feature schools represented by LEARFIELD.
"College Football Saturday Night is fun and different, and the broadcast really resonates with fans," said Rick Barakat, EVP/managing director for LEARFIELD's Media & Partnerships Group. "Our talent is just as exceptional for our sophomore season with Mike Golic Jr. and Sloane Martin in the booth, and we will soon announce where we're headed the first three weeks of the season."
Golic Jr. takes over the analyst chair from his father, Mike Golic, who was integral to College Football Saturday Night's rookie season last year. Martin assumes play-by-play duties held in 2021 by Kate Scott, now dedicated play-by-play announcer for the NBA's Philadelphia 76ers. Immediately following each of the 13 game broadcasts, Golic Jr. and Martin will host a brief postgame show from the booth.
Golic Jr. spent the last five years as a radio host and college football game analyst at ESPN. He hosted Canty & Golic Jr. – alongside Super Bowl Champion Chris Canty – every weekday on ESPN Radio and simulcast on ESPN+. He also was a regular fixture on ESPN's social media and digital content surrounding marquee events and key announcement shows such as the Super Bowl, NFL Draft and College Football Playoff Rankings Reaction with Jason Fitz. Golic Jr. comes to LEARFIELD's College Football Saturday Night with significant experience, having called dozens of college football games over the years and serving as a radio host for additional ESPN shows such as Chiney & Golic Jr., First and Last, and as a regular contributor on Golic and Wingo and guest co-host of Mike & Mike.
Martin has earned a reputation for breaking barriers for women in sports broadcasting. Most recently, she was lead play-by-play broadcaster for women's basketball on Big Ten Network in addition to calling softball and hockey games. Martin splits sideline and play-by-play duties for the WNBA's Minnesota Lynx on Bally Sports North and announces men's games for the Big3 pro basketball league.
Throughout the 2022 season, fans are encouraged to follow and engage with College Football Saturday Night on Twitter, tagging @LearfieldAudio and using the hashtag #CFBSaturdayNight. It is anticipated that through their personal Twitter handles, Golic Jr. (@mikegolicjr) and Martin (@SloaneMartin), also will join in the conversation. Fans can expect College Football Saturday Night to deliver quality play-by-play and game analysis, while the personalities and entertaining banter between Golic Jr. and Martin will be unique to the Saturday night slate each week.
LEARFIELD is a leading media and technology services company in intercollegiate athletics. The company unlocks the value of sports for brands and fans through an omnichannel platform with innovative content and commerce solutions. LEARFIELD services includes licensing and multimedia sponsorship management; publishing, audio, digital and social media; data analytics; ticketing, ticket sales and professional concessions expertise; branding; campus-wide business and sponsorship development; and venue technology systems. Since 2008, it has served as title sponsor for the acclaimed LEARFIELD Directors' Cup, supporting athletic departments across all divisions.
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SOURCE LEARFIELD | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/06/30/learfields-college-football-saturday-night-broadcast-returns-2022-season-with-mike-golic-jr-sloane-martin-mic/ | 2022-06-30T14:05:54Z |
Highlights
- Net income in the first quarter of 2022 was $1.5 million, or $0.41 per diluted share, compared to $9.8 million, or $2.73 per diluted share during the same period of 2021.
- Mortgage revenue, as anticipated, decreased to $4.1 million in the first quarter of 2022, compared to $16.1 million during the same period of 2021.
- Return on assets and return on equity was 0.57% and 5.28%, respectively, for the quarter ended March 31, 2022, compared to 3.60% and 32.70%, respectively, for the quarter ended March 31, 2021.
- The tangible common equity ratio was 11.14% at March 31, 2022, compared to 10.98% at December 31, 2021.
- Solid new origination activity during the first quarter drove an increase in loans held for investment, excluding $2.7 million of Small Business Administration (SBA) Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans, to $529.5 million at March 31, 2022, compared to $499.1 million and $517.9 million at September 30, 2021, and December 31, 2021, respectively.
- BNC released $550 thousand of its allowance for credit losses in the first quarter of 2022 compared to $0 provision for credit losses during the same period of 2021.
- Allowance for credit losses at March 31, 2022, was 1.60% of loans held for investment, excluding $2.7 million of Small Business Administration (SBA) Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans, compared to 1.75% at December 31, 2021.
BISMARCK, N.D., May 2, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- BNCCORP, INC. (BNC or the Company) (OTCQX Markets: BNCC), which operates community banking and wealth management businesses in North Dakota and Arizona, and has mortgage banking offices in Illinois, Kansas, Michigan, Arizona, and North Dakota, today reported financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2022.
Net income in the first quarter of 2022, was $1.5 million, compared to $9.8 million in the same period of 2021. First quarter 2022 earnings per diluted share was $0.41, versus $2.73 in the first quarter 2021. The year-over-year decrease was primarily due to lower mortgage revenues and lower net interest income, partially offset by lower non-interest expense and a reduction in the allowance for credit losses.
First quarter 2022 net interest income decreased by $2.1 million to $6.9 million, or 23.7%, from the comparable 2021 quarter. Interest income decreased by $2.4 million, or 24.9%, from the 2021 first quarter due to lower balances and yields on loans partially offset by higher balances of interest-bearing cash and debt securities. PPP fees were $227 thousand in the first quarter of 2022 compared to $1.8 million in the first quarter of 2021. First quarter 2022 interest expense decreased by $270 thousand, or 40.8%, versus the first quarter of 2021 due to a reduction in the cost of deposits and a reduction in certificates of deposit balances.
Non-interest income in the first quarter of 2022 decreased by $12.0 million, from the same period in 2021. In the first quarter of 2022, mortgage banking revenues were $4.1 million, $11.9 million lower than the same period a year ago, during which the Company experienced a combination of historically high refinance originations and margins. The sale of SBA loans resulted in gains on sales of loans of $20 thousand in the first quarter of 2022, compared to $97 thousand in the prior year period. The Company received profit distributions of $86 thousand from SBIC investments during the 2022 first quarter compared to $100 thousand in the same period in 2021. Gains on sales of loans and profit distributions from SBIC investments can vary significantly from period to period.
Non-interest expense in the 2022 first quarter decreased by $2.6 million, or 18.9%, versus the first quarter of 2021. Non-interest expenses related to mortgage operations activity decreased by $2.5 million, or 32.0%, as management adjusted the scale of operations based on the marketplace opportunity.
Nonperforming assets were $1.5 million at March 31, 2022, down from $1.7 million at December 31, 2021 and $2.6 million at March 31, 2021. The ratio of nonperforming assets-to-total-assets was 0.15% at March 31, 2022, down from 0.16% at December 31, 2021 and 0.21% at March 31, 2021. The Company released $550 thousand of its allowance for credit losses in the 2022 first quarter, compared to no provision for credit losses in the first quarter of 2021. The allowance for credit losses decreased to 1.60% of loans held for investment (excluding $2.7 million of PPP loans) at March 31, 2022, compared to 1.75% at December 31, 2021 and 1.98% at March 31, 2021. The Company continues to monitor key industry data and will prudently adjust its allowance for credit losses as appropriate.
Tangible book value per common share at March 31, 2022, was $30.91, compared to $32.35 at December 31, 2021. The decline in tangible book value per common share was driven by the negative impact of higher long-term rates on accumulated other comprehensive income partially offset by retained earnings. The Company's tangible common equity capital ratio was 11.14% at March 31, 2022, compared to 10.98% at December 31, 2021.
Total assets were $987.2 million at March 31, 2022, compared to $1.0 billion at December 31, 2021. Total deposits were $854.4 million at March 31, 2022, compared to $906.7 million at December 31, 2021.
"BNC continues to drive performance and maintain a stable financial position despite macroeconomic and geopolitical headwinds that are impacting the entire banking industry – particularly within the mortgage sector," said Daniel J. Collins, BNC's President and Chief Executive Officer. "Over the past four quarters, we have successfully transitioned our mortgage business from refinancing activity to purchased home loan originations to reflect marketplace dynamics and customers' needs. As anticipated, our mortgage revenue declined in the first quarter due to normal loan seasonality, a volatile interest rate environment and inflation pressures. That said, we saw sequential gains in mortgage loan origination during the first quarter and maintain the capability to scale and maximize mortgage opportunities as they emerge."
Collins continued, "Across BNC, we remain intently focused on our strengths: cultivating community banking relationships, maintaining sensible lending practices and continuing to enhance our strong, stable and forward-looking marketplace position. These activities helped drive an $11.6 million first-quarter increase in loans held for investment. We also released an additional $550 thousand from our allowance for credit losses as pandemic related risks have subsided, in addition to the $350 thousand released at 2021-year end.
"As we look ahead to the rest of 2022, we are bolstered by BNC's strong balance sheet and fiscal prudence. Our organization remains committed to improving financial performance and efficiently managing recently elevated liquidity levels. Operationally, we have several initiatives under way that target further efficiency, productivity and stronger customer experiences. Additionally, we are encouraged to see momentum in generating organic loan growth in the businesses and communities that we serve. Our superior customer service and support give us confidence in our ability to meet this need with a broad range of financial products and services."
Net interest income for the first quarter of 2022 was $6.9 million, a decrease of $2.1 million, or 23.7%, from $9.1 million in the first quarter of 2021. The decrease primarily reflected lower loan balances and yields on loans partially offset by higher interest-bearing cash and debt securities, lower cost of deposits, and a reduction in certificates of deposit. PPP fees were $227 thousand in first quarter of 2022 compared to $1.8 million in the first quarter of 2021. Net interest margin decreased to 2.80% in the 2022 first quarter, compared to 3.57% in the year-earlier period.
First quarter interest income decreased $2.4 million, or 24.9%, to $7.3 million in 2022, compared to $9.7 million in the first quarter of 2021. The decrease is the result of lower loan balances, primarily lower balances of loans held for sale and PPP loans, in addition to lower yields on loans held for investment. The yield on average interest-earning assets was 2.96% in the first quarter of 2022, compared to 3.83% in the 2021 first quarter.
The average balance of interest-earning assets in the 2022 first quarter decreased by $29.4 million versus the same period of 2021, primarily due to $135.6 million and $25.2 million increases in interest-bearing cash and debt securities, respectively, more than offset by decreases in average loans held for sale and loans held for investment including PPP loans. Interest income for loans held for investment decreased $1.9 million. The average balance of loans held for investment decreased by $51.4 million with PPP loans accounting for $53.7 million of the decrease. The average balance of mortgage loans held for sale was $60.0 million, $140.1 million lower than the same period of 2021. Interest income from loans held for sale decreased $766 thousand due to lower average balances. The average balance of debt securities in the first quarter of 2022 was $204.4 million, $25.2 million higher than in the first quarter of 2021. Interest income from debt securities was $126 thousand higher compared to the same period of 2021.
Interest expense in the first quarter of 2022 was $392 thousand, a decrease of $270 thousand, or 40.8%, from the 2021 period. The cost of interest-bearing liabilities was 0.21% during the quarter, compared to 0.35% in the same period of 2021. The cost of core deposits in the first quarters of 2022 and 2021 was 0.15% and 0.26%, respectively.
At March 31, 2022, credit metrics remained stable with $1.5 million of nonperforming assets, representing a 0.15% nonperforming assets-to-total-asset ratio, compared to $1.7 million and 0.16% at December 31, 2021. The Company also released $550 thousand of its allowance for credit losses in the first quarter of 2022, compared to no provision recorded in the first quarter of 2021.
Non-interest income for the first quarter of 2022 was $5.5 million, compared to $17.5 million in the 2021 first quarter. The decrease was driven by mortgage banking revenues of $4.1 million in the first quarter of 2022, versus $16.1 million in the prior-year period. The Company's mortgage business has managed through a transition to a lower level of originations compared to the pandemic-related historically high level of refinance activity and margins in the prior-year period. In the first quarter of 2022, BNC funded 760 mortgage loans with combined balances of $300.2 million, compared to 2,426 mortgage loans with combined balances of $874.8 million in the first quarter of 2021. Wealth management revenues decreased $9 thousand, or 1.7%, as assets under administration decreased as a result of overall market declines relative to the 2021 period.
Non-interest expense for the first quarter of 2022 decreased $2.6 million, or 18.9%, to $11.0 million, from $13.6 million in the first quarter of 2021. Non-interest expenses related to mortgage operations activity decreased by $2.5 million, or 32.0%, as management adjusted the scale of operations based on the marketplace opportunity. There were 140 full-time equivalent employees related to mortgage operations at March 31, 2022, compared to 163 at March 31, 2021. Combined expenses for community banking and the holding company decreased by $95 thousand, or 1.6%, compared to the 2021 period primarily due to reduced salary and data processing expense offset by higher professional services.
In the first quarter of 2022, income tax expense was $453 thousand, compared to $3.2 million in the first quarter of 2021. The effective tax rate was 23.5% in the first quarter of 2022, compared to 24.5% in the same period of 2021.
Net income was $1.5 million, or $0.41 per diluted share, in the first quarter of 2022, versus $9.8 million, or $2.73 per diluted share, in the first quarter of 2021.
Total assets were $987.2 million at March 31, 2022, and $1.0 billion at December 31, 2021.
Total loans held for investment were $532.2 million at March 31, 2022 compared to $529.8 million at December 31, 2021. PPP loan balances, included in loans held for investment, were $2.7 million at March 31, 2022 compared to $11.9 million at December 31, 2021. Loans held for sale at March 31, 2022, were $61.8 million, a decrease of $19.1 million when compared to December 31, 2021. Debt securities decreased $12.9 million from year-end 2021 while cash and cash equivalent balances totaled $155.0 million at March 31, 2022, compared to $188.1 million at December 31, 2021.
Total deposits decreased $52.3 million to $854.4 million at March 31, 2022, from $906.7 million at December 31, 2021. The Company was able to decrease deposit balances at the end of the first quarter of 2022 by moving non-core deposits off the balance sheet through the use of an associated banking network.
Trust assets under administration decreased 3.3%, or $13.5 million, to $396.0 million at March 31, 2022, from $409.5 million at December 31, 2021.
The allowance for credit losses was $8.5 million at March 31, 2022, and $9.1 million at December 31, 2021. The allowance as a percentage of loans held for investment at March 31, 2022 decreased to 1.59% from 1.71% at December 31, 2021. Excluding $2.7 million of PPP loans, which are 100% guaranteed by the SBA, the allowance for credit losses as a percentage of loans held for investment at March 31, 2022, decreased to 1.60% compared to 1.75% at December 31, 2021.
Nonperforming assets, consisting of loans, were $1.5 million at March 31, 2022, and $1.7 million at December 31, 2021. The ratio of nonperforming assets-to-total-assets was 0.15% at March 31, 2022, and 0.16% at December 31, 2021. The Company did not hold any other real estate owned or repossessed assets at March 31, 2022. The Company did not hold any other real estate owned and held $17 thousand in repossessed assets at December 31, 2021.
At March 31, 2022, BNC had $8.0 million of classified loans and $1.5 million of loans on non-accrual. At December 31, 2021, BNC had $8.5 million of classified loans and $1.7 million of loans on non-accrual. BNC had $6.3 million of potentially problematic loans, which are risk rated "watch list", at March 31, 2022, compared with $6.5 million as of December 31, 2021.
The Company continues to monitor the effects of the pandemic and its potential impact on customers. BNC considers the pandemic, along with other macroeconomic and geopolitical factors, when monitoring the performance of its loan portfolio and adjusting its allowance for credit losses.
BNC's loans held for investment are concentrated geographically in North Dakota and Arizona which comprise 62% and 23% of the Company's total loan portfolio, respectively. The North Dakota economy is influenced by the energy and agriculture industries. Energy supply and demand factors have recently increased oil prices, benefiting the oil industry and ancillary services. Legislation and economic conditions remain potential risks to energy markets and production activity and can present potential challenges to credit quality in North Dakota. Drought conditions were the primary risk factor in the North Dakota agriculture industry during the 2021 operating year and continue as we proceed through the first quarter of 2022. North Dakota livestock and grain operators face challenges that require close monitoring and could have an adverse impact on the state overall. The Arizona economy is influenced by the leisure and travel industries. Positive trends in both industries have been noted, but an extended slowdown in these industries may negatively impact credit quality in Arizona. BNC's portfolio is constructed of various sized loans spread over a large number of industry sectors, although the Company manages meaningful concentrations of loans in hospitality and commercial real estate.
The following table approximates the Company's significant concentrations by industry, excluding PPP loans of $2.7 million and $11.9 million, as of March 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021, respectively (in thousands):
The hospitality industry is still in the process of recovering from the economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic with a primary focus on hotel occupancy and restaurant utilization trends. Hotel operators in BNC's loan portfolio are reporting positive trends, and in some cases stronger balance sheets. Despite positive trends within the hospitality industry, caution remains as labor shortages limit capacity in some cases, and government and financial institution support is expiring.
The Company's loan portfolio and credit risk could still experience adversity from pandemic related risks, and this potential risk remains qualitatively captured in the Company's allowance for credit losses.
Banks and bank holding companies operate under separate regulatory capital requirements. At March 31, 2022, the Company's capital ratios exceeded all regulatory capital thresholds, including the capital conservation buffer.
A summary of BNC's capital ratios at March 31, 2022, and December 31, 2021, is presented below:
The Common Equity Tier 1 ratio, which is generally a comparison of a bank's core equity capital to its total risk weighted assets, is a measure of the current risk profile of the Bank's asset base from a regulatory perspective. The Tier 1 leverage ratio, which is based on average assets, does not consider the mix of risk-weighted assets.
The Company routinely evaluates the sufficiency of its capital to ensure compliance with regulatory capital standards and to serve as a source of strength for the Bank. The Company manages capital by assessing the composition of capital and the amounts available for growth, risk, or other purposes.
BNCCORP, INC., headquartered in Bismarck, N.D., is a registered bank holding company dedicated to providing banking and wealth management services to businesses and consumers in its local markets. The Company operates community banking and wealth management businesses in North Dakota and Arizona from 11 locations. BNC also conducts mortgage banking from 9 locations in Illinois, Kansas, Michigan, Arizona and North Dakota.
This news release may contain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 with respect to the financial condition, results of operations, plans, objectives, future performance and business of BNC. Forward-looking statements, which may be based upon beliefs, expectations and assumptions of our management and on information currently available to management are generally identifiable by the use of words such as "expect", "believe", "anticipate", "at the present time". "plan", "optimistic", "intend", "estimate", "may", "will", "would", "could", "should", "future" and other expressions relating to future periods. Examples of forward-looking statements include, among others, statements we make regarding our expectations regarding future market conditions and our ability to capture opportunities and pursue growth strategies, our expected operating results such as revenue growth and earnings and our expectations of the effects of the regulatory environment or current or future pandemics on our earnings for the foreseeable future. Forward-looking statements are neither historical facts nor assurances of future performance. Our actual results and financial condition may differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements. Therefore, you should not rely on any of these forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause our actual results and financial condition to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to: the impact of pandemics, the impact of current and future regulation; the risks of loans and investments, including dependence on local and regional economic conditions; competition for our customers from other providers of financial services; possible adverse effects of changes in interest rates, including the effects of such changes on mortgage banking revenues and derivative contracts and associated accounting consequences; risks associated with our acquisition and growth strategies; and other risks which are difficult to predict and many of which are beyond our control. In addition, all statements in this news release, including forward-looking statements, speak only of the date they are made, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update any statement in light of new information or future events.
This press release contains references to financial measures, which are not defined in GAAP. Such non-GAAP financial measures include tangible common equity to total period end assets ratio. These non-GAAP financial measures have been included as the Company believes they are helpful for investors to analyze and evaluate the Company's financial condition.
(Financial tables attached)
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SOURCE BNCCORP, INC. | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/05/02/bnccorp-inc-reports-first-quarter-net-income-15-million-or-041-per-diluted-share/ | 2022-05-02T11:44:10Z |
Golden State-Dallas playoff games score in weekly TV ratings
By LYNN ELBER
AP Television Writer
LOS ANGELES (AP) — When the NBA playoffs take the TV court even the most popular shows find the competition tough. Last week’s No. 1 program was the Golden State-Dallas conference finals matchup, in which the Warriors extended their winning streak to three out of three. The first two games were among the top 10 programs, with playoff games overall claiming a quarter of the top 20, according to Nielsen figures released Tuesday. Viewers fit in time for favorite series including CBS’ “FBI,” whose next-to-last episode for the season the most-watched drama. The network pulled this week’s season finale because its plot was too close to Tuesday’s mass killings at a Texas school. | https://localnews8.com/sports/ap-national-sports/2022/05/24/golden-state-dallas-playoff-games-score-in-weekly-tv-ratings/ | 2022-05-25T01:28:48Z |
ATLANTA, Aug. 16, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- White Cap Supply Holdings, LLC ("White Cap") is proud to release its inaugural sustainability report.
This report, titled "Building Trust through our Commitments," outlines White Cap's priorities, milestones and ongoing initiatives included in its Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) program.
As part of this program, White Cap is intentional about honoring its commitments to the following:
- Responsible Construction
- Operational Integrity
- Our People and Our Communities
- Governance and Security
"As White Cap's business grows, so does our impact on the world around us," said John Stegeman, Chief Executive Officer of White Cap. "It is critical that we make conscious decisions built on the foundation of our values and commitments to act as a responsible company. This sustainability report is another way we are Building Trust on Every Job™."
The White Cap sustainability report provides an overview of the work and decisions made to date in reducing its environmental risks, creating a socially conscious workplace, and operating with transparency, equality and respect.
To read the sustainability report and to learn more about White Cap's ESG Program, visit https://about.whitecap.com/our-commitments.
White Cap Supply Holdings, LLC ("White Cap") serves as a one-stop shop providing concrete accessories and chemicals, tools and equipment, building materials and fasteners, erosion and waterproofing and safety products to professional contractors by meeting their distinct and customized supply needs in non-residential, residential and infrastructure end markets. White Cap is comprised of multiple brands in the U.S., including Ram Tool, and the Brafasco, Brock White and NCA brands in Canada. White Cap operates more than 450 branches across North America with more than 9,000 employees supporting approximately 200,000 customers. For more information, visit about.whitecap.com.
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SOURCE White Cap Supply Holdings LLC | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/08/16/white-cap-releases-inaugural-sustainability-report/ | 2022-08-16T13:39:35Z |
CHARLOTTE, N.C., May 18, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Barings, one of the world's leading investment managers, announced today that it has provided a $64.5 million bridge loan to refinance the existing construction loan on The AC Hotel in Fort Worth, Texas. The financing has a three-year term with two one-year extensions. CBRE advised the sponsorship on the financing.
The AC Hotel Fort Worth is located at 101 West 5th Street in downtown Fort Worth. It lies at the heart of Sundance Square, the 35-square-block pedestrian-friendly retail and entertainment district home to shops, restaurants, and well-known attractions such as the Fort Worth Water Gardens and Bass Performance Hall.
"With its dynamic growth story, lending in downtown Fort Worth allows Barings to further its commitment to the Dallas-Fort Worth commercial real estate market and deliver attractive returns for our clients," said Tom Cross, Managing Director with Barings.
The AC Hotel is an upscale select-service hotel developed and owned by Jackson-Shaw of Dallas. The 16-story hotel opened in September 2020 and contains 252 rooms outfitted with modern amenities, The AC Lounge and AC Kitchen, a 24-hour business center, a 24-hour fitness center, and 6,050 SF of meeting and event space.
"Jackson-Shaw has decades of experience in the hotel business, and we are excited to be partnering with them on this high-quality asset that is already exhibiting accelerated operational performance," added Barings' Cross. "The DFW community continues to show resilience in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the success of this hotel is a testament to Fort Worth's vibrancy."
About Barings
Barings is a $371+ billion* global investment manager sourcing differentiated opportunities and building long-term portfolios across public and private fixed income, real estate, and specialist equity markets. With investment professionals based in North America, Europe and Asia Pacific, the firm, a subsidiary of MassMutual, aims to serve its clients, communities and employees, and is committed to sustainable practices and responsible investment. Learn more at www.barings.com.
*Assets under management as of March 31, 2022
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SOURCE Barings | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/05/18/barings-provides-financing-fort-worth-hotel/ | 2022-05-18T18:01:57Z |
PITTSBURGH, Aug. 1, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- MSA Safety Incorporated (NYSE: MSA) today announced it has accepted the resignation of its Chief Financial Officer, Kenneth Krause, effective August 26, 2022. Mr. Krause, who was elected CFO in December 2015, is leaving to accept the position of CFO at another public company located outside of Pennsylvania.
Nish Vartanian, MSA Safety Chairman, President and CEO, said the company has initiated a comprehensive external search for a new CFO. In addition, MSA Chief Accounting Officer Jonathan Buck has been appointed interim CFO.
"On behalf of our Board of Directors and the entire MSA organization, we want to thank Ken for his many contributions to MSA during his 15 years with the company," Mr. Vartanian said. "Ken helped MSA achieve meaningful improvements in profitability and cash flow, resulting in top quartile performance with regard to stock price and total shareholder return," he said.
About MSA Safety
Established in 1914, MSA Safety Incorporated is the global leader in the development, manufacture and supply of safety products that protect people and facility infrastructures. Many MSA products integrate a combination of electronics, mechanical systems and advanced materials to protect users against hazardous or life-threatening situations. The company's comprehensive product line is used by workers around the world in a broad range of markets, including the oil, gas and petrochemical industry, the fire service, the construction industry, mining and the military. MSA's core products include self-contained breathing apparatus, fixed gas and flame detection systems, portable gas detection instruments, industrial head protection products, firefighter helmets and protective apparel, and fall protection devices. With 2021 revenues of $1.4 billion, MSA employs approximately 4,800 people worldwide. The company is headquartered north of Pittsburgh in Cranberry Township, Pa., and has manufacturing operations in the United States, Europe, Asia and Latin America. With more than 40 international locations, MSA realizes approximately half of its revenue from outside North America. For more information visit MSA's web site at www.MSAsafety.com.
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SOURCE MSA Safety | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/08/01/msa-safety-announces-chief-financial-officer-transition/ | 2022-08-01T22:27:32Z |
(The Hill) – Rudy Giuliani was hit with an ethics charge by the Washington, D.C., Office of Disciplinary Counsel on Friday over his promotion of baseless claims about fraud in the 2020 presidential election before a federal court in Pennsylvania, jeopardizing his ability to practice law in the city.
The D.C. Bar’s disciplinary arm said that he had violated the Pennsylvania Rules of Professional Conduct by bringing a proceeding and asserting “issues therein without a non-frivolous basis in law and fact for doing so” and engaging “in conduct prejudicial to the administration of justice,” according to the filing.
The complaint said that Giuliani provided insufficient sourcing to prove his allegations that election fraud had taken place in Pennsylvania.
Giuliani “further justified his allegations of fraud against the” defendant counties in the case “by promising the district court that ‘statistical analysis will evidence that over 70,000 mail and other mail ballots which favor [President] Biden were improperly counted,’ … but Respondent should have known the ‘evidence’ he provided relied upon false or faulty statistics and analysis,” the complaint read.
The former New York City mayor also claimed he had 300 statements and affidavits that would have provided proof of said fraud taking place in the state, according to the filing.
But the complaint said that “the affidavits, declarations, and statements that he provided to the district court and other bodies were (a) unsupported, (b) unrelated to [former President] Trump voters, (c) involve conduct outside the seven Defendant Counties, and (d) by their own terms were isolated incidents that could not have affected the presidential election’s results by offsetting the Biden majority of over 80,000 votes.”
Giuliani was admitted to the D.C. Bar in 1976, but in 2002, his status became inactive. Last year, the New York Supreme Court’s appellate division suspended his law license in that state.
The Hill has reached out to Giuliani and a lawyer for Giuliani for comment. | https://cw33.com/news/nexstar-media-wire/giuliani-hit-with-ethics-charge-by-dc-bar-over-false-election-fraud-claims/ | 2022-06-11T02:21:07Z |
Back in March, an off-duty police officer was seen on video putting his knee on the neck of a 12-year-old girl in Kenosha, Wisconsin, for more than 20 seconds in an attempt to break up a school fight.
Now, the 12-year-old girl is being criminally charged with disorderly conduct, her family attorney Drew DeVinney told CNN.
"A juvenile delinquency petition has been filed against Jane Doe in Kenosha County," DeVinney said. "However, the proceedings and court filings are confidential."
The full contents of the criminal complaint were not immediately available because she is a minor. The Kenosha County District Attorney's Office could not comment on a juvenile matter.
In March, the Kenosha Police Department confirmed to CNN that a criminal charge of disorderly conduct had been referred to prosecutors for "both juveniles involved in the incident." However, neither the identity of either girl nor any other potential charge against the other minor involved has been disclosed.
DeVinney told CNN the girl was offered a "diversion," however it would have required her to "admit to the charge, which was untenable." He recalled the penalty would have been similar to probation, but it was "untenable because she is not guilty."
The charge comes three months after video showed two students in a fight at Lincoln Middle School in Kenosha. Off-duty Kenosha Police officer Shawn Guetschow, working school security at the time, attempted to break it up before either being hit or falling backward with one of the students, the video shows. It appears he hits his head on the edge of a nearby table, the video shows.
Shortly after, Guetschow is seen on top of the student and appears to push her head into the floor with one hand and then place his knee on her neck for more than 20 seconds, the video shows. The 12-year-old girl is eventually handcuffed, picked up and led away, according to the video.
The officer's position on the girl raised questions about how school police respond to adolescent fights and appeared disturbingly similar to the position of the former Minneapolis Police officer who killed George Floyd nearly two years ago.
Noting "the visual similarities to George Floyd," a Kenosha Police Department spokesman said in April that interim Chief Eric Larsen asked the FBI to look into the case. The FBI has not responded to questions about the status of any investigation.
"Looking at that picture, it destroyed me," the girl's father, Jerrel Perrez, told CNN in March. "All it takes is just a little bit, especially for a 12-year-old girl. We've seen a grown man die from that same situation, just imagine a fragile 12-year-old's neck."
Officer resigned from school district in March
Guetschow, identified by both the Kenosha Unified School District and the Kenosha Police Department, resigned from his position with the school district, but remains an officer with the police department, CNN previously reported.
DeVinney, the family attorney, is now filing paperwork for a civil suit against a number of parties including Guetschow, Larsen and the Kenosha Unified School District.
"No criminal charges have been filed against Officer Guetschow, who we understand remains employed with the Kenosha Police Department," wrote DeVinney in part of the notice of claim. "The difference between how an adult with a badge and a child with Black skin are being treated should offend everyone's sense of morality, ethics, and justice," he later continued.
"She is the victim of police brutality and now, what seems to be a concerted effort to silence her with baseless charges. The absence of accountability for a grown man that choked this child is striking," DeVinney added.
CNN has reached out to the Kenosha Police Department for comment but has not gotten a response.
Pete Deates, president of the Kenosha Professional Police Association, had not seen all the details of the civil claim when reached by CNN. However, he previously told CNN that Guetschow was injured as part of the incident.
In a statement provided to CNN, Sam Hall Jr., attorney for the Kenosha Unified School District, wrote, "The allegations within the Notice of Claim are unfounded. The Kenosha Unified School District will vigorously defend itself and its employees in the event that litigation is initiated in this matter."
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™ & © 2022 Cable News Network, Inc., a WarnerMedia Company. All rights reserved. | https://www.albanyherald.com/news/an-off-duty-officer-put-his-knee-on-a-12-year-old-girls-neck-to/article_021e1afa-3f23-5087-8286-ba1da6a45d22.html | 2022-05-12T20:48:06Z |
BRUSSELS, July 14, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Significant changes to recent employment rates have forced employers to re-evaluate their approach to staff retention and the factors that influence longevity and strength in a workforce. The Great Resignation, in which millions of people are leaving their jobs in search of better lifestyles, has caused upheaval in almost every industry, creating large gaps in talent and production, while impacting budgets and company morale.
"At Amrop, we have noted significant trends in our partner countries – the ripple effect of what the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports as 47.8-million Americans resigning from their work last year. Our position as a global leadership advisory and executive search firm allows us to analyse and anticipate these challenges in other territories, assisting our worldwide network with strategies to tackle The Great Resignation" says Annika Farin, Amrop Partnership Chair and Managing Partner of the German office.
Amrop data shows that after its hard hit on the USA, The Great Resignation is now impacting a vast European territory, causing smaller countries to take note of retention lessons learnt in the US., also notes that Europe's demographical factors are impacting the job market, as the Baby Boomers are all exiting quite simultaneously – "this is especially apparent in Germany, we see this everywhere now, and have to get creative about it" says Farin.
According to Amrop Italy's President and Managing Partner Antonio Pellerano, the phenomenon is impacting 60% of companies in Italy, and several thousands of positions, mainly in the digital and ITC areas. Similar trends are now being seen in Eastern and Western Europe.
Although a Microsoft survey conducted last year highlights that 41% of the global workforce is considering quitting their jobs, the anticipated rate of resignation in the executive class is significantly higher. A recent Deloitte survey shows that nearly 70% of C-suite employees in the US, UK, Canada and Australia are seriously considering leaving their jobs.
The study indicates that 81% of the C-suite says that improving their well-being is more important than advancing their career, as they go in search of better-lived lives. This lifestyle pursuit is now trickling into European countries, forcing companies to pay close attention to their chief executives, chief financial officers, and other C-level employees, as they reassess the role of work in their lives.
Amrop develops retention programmes that keep employees engaged, productive and employed – always customised to the enterprise's needs and goals. A multi-faceted, targeted, and personal strategy is key, supported by a trusting, secure working relationship between the employer and employee.
The retention counselling service developed by Amrop Woodburn Mann and the Woodburn Mann Leadership Science Institute offers a successful example of such a programme, and one that the Amrop network around the world extract lessons from when dealing with partner retention strategies. It focuses on principles of enhanced engagement – at a personal and institutional level – that facilitate solutions for executives within a business.
"The programme cultivates long-term loyalty and delivery, enhancing the retention proposition and attracting the executive to remain in the company," explains Andrew Woodburn, Managing Partner at Amrop Woodburn Mann, who sits on the Global Board of the Amrop Partnership. "In most cases, the individual is not informed that they are undergoing retention counselling, since this knowledge could create an awkward dynamic between them and their employer. Rather, they are awarded an executive development opportunity. Together with the employer, we design a programme to overcome some of the challenges triggering the employee to become a flight risk."
Woodburn advises businesses to look beyond solely addressing the employee's needs. "In many cases, culture and retention stem from the leadership style trickling down from above. Therefore, systemically, the culture and leadership of the organisation need to be attended to from the top down. This is a long-term programme and can take many years to execute within an organisation, requiring a dedicated culture commitment and buy-in from the business."
He recommends a diverse facilitation mandate when creating such a programme. "It should include attitude, current organisational environment, any personal issues, education and training, leadership, remuneration, role scope and future expectations. This broad palette should bring to the surface the critical issues that need to be addressed by the retention programme, to generate a workable solution for both the employee and the employer."
"At Amrop, we encourage businesses to make retention plans part of their mandate to attract, develop and retain talent. Our aim when working with corporations is to hold on to enterprise knowledge by retaining long-term, highly valuable employees, particularly in the executive category. An executive's experience, qualifications, networks, insight, company understanding and ability to contribute beyond KPIs are highly prized commodities – and these C-suites should be a strong focus in a business's retention strategy" – Annika Farin
To ensure good retention planning, Amrop recommends an agile approach that considers the individual and their overall well-being. Companies that can offer flexibility to their employees and understand their needs and values are more likely to maintain a stable and competitive workforce. Offering attractive benefits, being committed to long-term career prospects, facilitating training, and investing in ongoing learning will instil greater loyalty, retaining talented and motivated executives who are committed to the organisation's success.
CONTACT:
Amrop GLOBAL HEADQUARTERS
The Amrop Partnership SCRL
Rue Abbé Cuypers 3
1040 Brussels, Belgium
T. +32 471 733 825
E. contact@amrop.com
Brigitte Arhold COO
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“May-Haw Beach Bash” has plenty of jokes and summer songs to entertain the entire family. The show opens Friday, with additional performances Saturday and next weekend. Admission is $20.
COLQUITT — The internationally renowned Cotton Hall Theater, the home of Swamp Gravy, is throwing a beach bash this weekend. But it will not be so much Frankie and Annette as it will be Alan and Deana.
Deana Carter’s “Strawberry Wine” and Alan Jackson’s “Chattahoochee” will be among the songs performed by local singers in the “May-Haw Beach Bash” shows that start on Friday. Zac Brown’s “Chicken Fried” is also on the menu for the performance that will bring summertime to south Georgia a little early.
“After the short, dark days of winter, I am so glad to be putting on a show that is just wall-to-wall silliness,” Cotton Hall Theater’s Artistic Director Will Murdock, said. “We have pulled together some of the goofiest characters, silliest jokes and a great batch of country songs for the Beach Bash. We tried to imagine what songs we would want to sing at poolside karaoke.”
The two-week run will feature shows at 7:30 p.m. Friday and April 22, and at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. Saturday and April 23. Tickets are $20 each and available at www.swampgravy.com or by calling the box office at (229) 758-5450.
The cast is made up of performers from Arlington, Bainbridge, Blakely, Colquitt, Donalsonville and Dothan, Alabama, so chances are audience members may recognize someone on stage. “May-Haw Beach Bash” promises a variety of summer songs and jokes that will tickle your funny bone and be fun for the entire family.
“We have a great group of people who have come together to make this show, and it’s been so fun to get on the stage and just laugh,” Murdock said. “Nothing is ever too much in ‘May-Haw.’
“We hope that anyone coming out to the show will throw on their Hawaiian shirts or summer duds and welcome summer with us.”
Work is continuing on the $11.5 million transit center under construction in downtown Albany. The facility, expected to open in January 2023, will boast boards to alert riders to real-time departure and arrival times of buses, computer and public conference rooms and car charging stations. A… Click for more.
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Toddler dies after going down waterfall in North Carolina
JACKSON COUNTY, N.C. (WHNS/Gray News) - A 3-year-old child has died after falling down a waterfall Sunday evening, according to the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies said they received reports at 5:50 p.m. that the child, who was visiting Whitewater Falls with her family, had been swept away in the water at the top of the falls and had been carried by the current.
Emergency responders from Jackson, Transylvania, Haywood, Henderson,and Oconee counties were dispatched to the falls to rescue the child, WHNS reported.
Just before nightfall, the 3-year-old little girl was found dead and entrapped in an area of the waterfall. Her body was recovered around 1 a.m. Monday.
The child has been identified as Nevaeh Jade Newswanger, 3, of Pennsylvania. Her family had been living in Oconee County while working in the area.
“First and foremost our prayers are with the Newswanger family as they grieve the loss of this precious young child,” said Jackson County Sheriff Chip Hall. “With the onset of spring weather, we need to be reminded of the dangers associated with many scenic areas of the region such as waterfalls.”
Hall reminded people to view the falls from a safe distance from a designated viewing area, following safety precautions.
Copyright 2022 WHNS via Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved. | https://www.wibw.com/2022/04/11/toddler-dies-after-going-down-waterfall-north-carolina/ | 2022-04-11T12:22:11Z |
COLUMBUS, Ohio, July 26, 2022 /PRNewswire/ --American Electric Power (Nasdaq: AEP) was included in Forbes magazine's America's Best Employers for Women 2022 list for the third consecutive year.
The list was compiled based on an independent survey of 50,000 U.S. employees, including 30,000 women, working for companies with at least 1,000 employees. Participants were asked to rate their employer based on working conditions, salary and wage, diversity and likelihood to recommend their employer to others. These responses were then reviewed for potential gender gaps, which were then reflected in the company's score. Female respondents were then asked to rate their organization based on parental leave, family support, discrimination and pay equity. Respondents were also asked to rank their employer based on the share of women in executive roles and nominate other companies based on their diversity efforts. The 400 companies that received the highest total scores were named to the list.
"AEP prides itself on attracting and retaining a talented, diverse workforce representative of the communities we serve," said Nicholas K. Akins, AEP chairman, president and chief executive officer. "This award showcases our dedication to building an inclusive, supportive company culture, and we'll continue to develop programs to support our female colleagues."
Learn more about AEP's strategy to build the workforce of the future.
American Electric Power, based in Columbus, Ohio, is powering a cleaner, brighter energy future for its customers and communities. AEP's approximately 16,700 employees operate and maintain the nation's largest electricity transmission system and more than 224,000 miles of distribution lines to safely deliver reliable and affordable power to 5.5 million regulated customers in 11 states. AEP also is one of the nation's largest electricity producers with approximately 31,000 megawatts of diverse generating capacity, including more than 7,100 megawatts of renewable energy. The company's plans include growing its renewable generation portfolio to approximately 50% of total capacity by 2030. AEP is on track to reach an 80% reduction in carbon dioxide emissions from 2000 levels by 2030 and has committed to achieving net zero by 2050. AEP is recognized consistently for its focus on sustainability, community engagement, and diversity, equity and inclusion. AEP's family of companies includes utilities AEP Ohio, AEP Texas, Appalachian Power (in Virginia and West Virginia), AEP Appalachian Power (in Tennessee), Indiana Michigan Power, Kentucky Power, Public Service Company of Oklahoma, and Southwestern Electric Power Company (in Arkansas, Louisiana, east Texas and the Texas Panhandle). AEP also owns AEP Energy, which provides innovative competitive energy solutions nationwide. For more information, visit aep.com.
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SOURCE American Electric Power | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/07/26/aep-recognized-one-americas-best-employers-women/ | 2022-07-26T18:12:38Z |
- Interim data from SUNRISE trial in four pediatric patients showed detectable levels of ALB-2A biomarker demonstrating site-specific gene insertion and protein expression
- Two of four patients demonstrated increasing ALB-2A levels over time, indicating expansion of edited hepatocytes carrying the corrective gene
- Proprietary manufacturing process, mAAVRx, has shown 15- to 30-fold yield increase over standard transfection processes
LEXINGTON, Mass., Aug. 15, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- LogicBio® Therapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ: LOGC), a clinical-stage genetic medicine company, today reported financial results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2022, and provided business updates, including early clinical data from its ongoing SUNRISE trial evaluating LB-001 in pediatric patients with severe methylmalonic acidemia (MMA).
"We are excited to continue to see GeneRide® demonstrating its ability to precisely knock in the correct version of a gene with a single intravenous infusion—a significant milestone in the field of genetic medicine," said Fred Chereau, president and chief executive officer of LogicBio. "Additionally, LogicBio's proprietary mAAVRx™ process has continued to show significant improvement in production yields. As quality and cost of goods in genetic medicine manufacturing remain a key priority, we intend to leverage mAAVRx for our development candidates and as a potential source for business development collaborations."
Interim SUNRISE Phase 1/2 Results
SUNRISE is a first-in-human, open-label, multi-center, Phase 1/2 clinical trial designed to assess the safety, tolerability, and preliminary efficacy of a single intravenous infusion of LB-001 in pediatric patients with MMA. LB-001 is designed to non-disruptively knock-in a corrective copy of the methylmalonyl-CoA mutase (MMUT) gene into the albumin locus to drive lifelong therapeutic levels of MMUT expression in the liver. LB-001 is based on the company's proprietary GeneRide technology, which uses homologous recombination, a natural DNA repair process, to enable precise editing of the genome without the need for exogenous nucleases and promoters that have been associated with an increased risk of immune response and cancer. Detection of the technology-related biomarker albumin-2A (ALB-2A) in the serum indicates MMUT gene integration and MUT protein expression. Increasing levels of ALB-2A suggest the expansion of the edited cells over time.
The Phase 1/2 interim results include safety and efficacy data from four patients treated with a single intravenous infusion of LB-001 at dose level 5e13 vg/kg. The first two patients dosed were in the three to 12 years old age group and experienced no drug-related serious adverse events (SAEs). As previously disclosed, the third and fourth patients, who were in the six months to two years old age group, each experienced a drug-related SAE, categorized as thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA). The TMA events have resolved, and both patients remain in the study. Based on dialogue with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the SUNRISE protocol was amended to include enhanced monitoring measures, including frequent testing for complement activation, a characteristic of TMA, as well as the use of a complement inhibitor in the event there are laboratory findings indicating a potential or imminent TMA. Additionally, prior to the TMA event, the fourth patient experienced a grade 1 drug-related SAE that was categorized as cytokine release syndrome and necessitated an additional day in the hospital post-dosing.
In addition to safety and tolerability, SUNRISE is designed to evaluate preliminary efficacy through biomarkers such as ALB-2A, a technology-related biomarker, as well as several others related to the disease itself, including methylmalonic acid, methylcitric acid, fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) and propionate oxidation. ALB-2A has been detected in the serum of all four patients, which indicates site-specific integration of the MMUT gene. In two of the four patients, increasing levels of ALB-2A were seen over time, indicating selective advantage. Selective advantage enables edited hepatocytes carrying the corrective gene to survive and reproduce better than the endogenous mutated hepatocytes and to ultimately repopulate a part or whole of the diseased liver. The disease-related biomarkers, including methylmalonic acid, methylcitric acid, propionate oxidation and FGF-21, were variable and do not show a clear trend to date.
"These early results from the first four pediatric patients treated with LB-001 validate the proof of mechanism for our novel GeneRide genome editing technology," said Dr. Daniel Gruskin, chief medical officer of LogicBio. "The interim data suggest that a single systemic administration of LB-001 can lead to precise insertion of a corrective copy of the MMUT gene in the patient's hepatocytes. While the increase in ALB-2A is a promising sign, based on an analysis of preclinical and clinical data generated to date, we believe that significant additional time would be needed to determine clinical efficacy. I would like to thank the patients, their families, and the investigators who are participating in this ground-breaking trial. We look forward to continuing to better understand the biochemical and clinical effect of our genome editing therapy."
The company plans to continue observing the four patients through the long-term follow-up study to the SUNRISE trial where efficacy parameters will continue to be measured per protocol. As previously disclosed, the company expects to dose the next patient in the SUNRISE trial in the third quarter.
Recent Business Highlights:
- In May, the FDA lifted the clinical hold on LogicBio's Investigational New Drug Application (IND) for LB-001, allowing patient enrollment to resume in the Phase 1/2 SUNRISE trial in pediatric patients with MMA.
- In May, LogicBio presented four abstracts highlighting the company's GeneRide® technology in preclinical hereditary tyrosinemia type 1 (HT1) models and optimized adeno-associated virus (AAV) manufacturing processes at the American Society of Gene & Cell Therapy (ASGCT) 2022 Annual Meeting in Washington D.C.
- As part of the ASGCT presentations, LogicBio highlighted mAAVRx, its new proprietary manufacturing process. mAAVRx is an improved transient transfection of suspension cells, which has shown a 15- to 30-fold increase in vector yields compared to standard upstream processes.
Second Quarter 2022 Financial Results:
Three Months Ended June 30, 2022 and 2021
- Revenue: Revenue for the quarter ended June 30, 2022 consisted of $3.2 million in collaboration and service revenue recognized under our April 2021 agreements with CANbridge Care Pharma Hong Kong Limited (CANbridge) and Daiichi Sankyo Company, Limited (Daiichi Sankyo). Revenue for the quarter ended June 30, 2021 consisted of $0.8 million in collaboration and service revenue related to our arrangements with CANbridge, Daiichi, and our agreement with Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited (Takeda).
- R&D Expenses: Research and development expenses for the quarter ended June 30, 2022 were $4.8 million, compared to $7.3 million for the quarter ended June 30, 2021. The decrease of approximately $2.4 million was primarily due to a decrease of $1.2 million in LB-001 external development and manufacturing costs incurred during second quarter 2021 to start up the LB-001 SUNRISE clinical trial and a $1.0 million decrease in other research and development costs primarily related to one-time intellectual property costs that occurred as a result of entering into the April 2021 collaboration agreement with CANbridge.
- G&A Expenses: General and administrative expenses were $3.3 million for the quarter ended June 30, 2022, compared to $3.8 million for the quarter ended June 30, 2021. The decrease of approximately $0.5 million was primarily driven by a decrease of approximately $0.5 million in professional service fees as we brought more professional work in-house through key hires made during 2021.
- Net Loss: Net loss for the quarter ended June 30, 2022 was $5.0 million or $0.15 per share, compared to a net loss of $10.5 million, or $0.33 per share, for the quarter ended June 30, 2021.
- Cash Position: As of June 30, 2022, we had cash and cash equivalents of $38.8 million as compared to $53.5 million as of December 31, 2021. As of June 30, 2022, we had 32,962,733 shares outstanding.
- Financial Guidance: Based upon our current operating plan, we believe that our $38.8 million in cash and cash equivalents as of June 30, 2022 will enable us to fund our operating expenses and capital expenditure requirements into the second quarter of 2023.
About LogicBio Therapeutics
LogicBio® Therapeutics is a clinical-stage genetic medicine company pioneering genome editing and gene delivery platforms to address rare and serious diseases from infancy through adulthood. The company's genome editing platform, GeneRide®, is a new approach to precise gene insertion harnessing a cell's natural DNA repair process potentially leading to durable therapeutic protein expression levels. The company's gene delivery platform, sAAVy™, is an adeno-associated virus (AAV) capsid engineering platform designed to optimize gene delivery for treatments in a broad range of indications and tissues. The company's proprietary manufacturing process, mAAVRx™, aims to overcome one of the current limitations of AAV manufacturing by improving yields and product quality. The company is based in Lexington, MA. For more information, visit www.logicbio.com, which does not form a part of this release.
About LB-001
LB-001 is an investigational, first-in-class, single-administration, genome editing therapy for early intervention in methylmalonic acidemia (MMA) using LogicBio®'s proprietary GeneRide® drug development platform. GeneRide technology utilizes a natural DNA repair process called homologous recombination that enables precise editing of the genome without the need for exogenous nucleases and promoters that have been associated with an increased risk of immune response and cancer. LB-001 is designed to non-disruptively insert a corrective copy of the methylmalonyl-CoA mutase (MMUT) gene into the albumin locus to drive lifelong therapeutic levels of MMUT expression in the liver, the main site of MMUT expression and activity. LB-001 is delivered to hepatocytes intravenously via liver-targeted, engineered recombinant adeno-associated virus vector (rAAV-LK03). Preclinical studies found that LB-001 was safe and demonstrated transduction of hepatocytes, site-specific genomic integration, and transgene expression. LB-001–corrected hepatocytes in a mouse model of MMA demonstrated preferential survival and expansion (selective advantage), thus contributing to a progressive increase in hepatic MMUT expression over time. LB-001 resulted in improved growth, metabolic stability, and survival in MMA mice. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) granted fast track designation, rare pediatric disease designation and orphan drug designation for LB-001 for the treatment of MMA. In addition, the European Medicines Agency (EMA) granted orphan drug designation for LB-001 for the treatment of MMA.
About Methylmalonic Acidemia (MMA)
Methylmalonic acidemia (MMA) is a rare and life-threatening genetic disorder affecting approximately 1 in 50,000 newborns in the United States. In the most common form of MMA, a mutation in a gene called methylmalonyl-CoA mutase (MMUT) prevents the body from properly processing certain fats and proteins. As a result, toxic metabolites accumulate in the liver, in muscle tissue and in the brain. Symptoms include vomiting, lethargy, seizures, developmental delays and organ damage. There is no approved medical therapy addressing the underlying cause of the disease. To manage the symptoms, patients go on a severely restrictive, low-protein, high-calorie diet, often through a feeding tube. Even with aggressive management, these patients often experience life-threatening metabolic crises that can require recurrent hospitalizations and cause permanent neurocognitive damage. Because of this risk for irreversible damage, early intervention is critical, and newborns are screened for MMA in every state in the United States.
Forward-Looking Statements
Statements in this press release regarding LogicBio®'s strategy, plans, prospects, expectations, beliefs, intentions and goals are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended, including but not limited to statements the potential of the GeneRide® platform; the potential of LB-001, including its ability to lead to precise insertion; our ability to leverage mAAVRxTM for our development candidates or any potential business development collaborations; the potential expansion of edited cells and timing thereof; the amount of time necessary to demonstrate clinical efficacy; and the anticipated timing of when we expect to dose the next patient. The terms "believe," "look forward," "future," "intend," "designed," "potential," "suggests," "plans," "expects" and similar references are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words. Each forward-looking statement is subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in such statement, including the risk that existing preclinical and/or clinical data may not be predictive of the results of ongoing or later preclinical and/or clinical results; the risk that we may not be successful in efforts to leverage our technologies for business development or otherwise; risks associated with management and key personnel changes and transitional periods; the actual funding required to develop and commercialize product candidates, including for safety, tolerability, enrollment, manufacturing or economic reasons; the timing and content of decisions made by regulatory authorities; the actual time it takes to initiate and complete preclinical and clinical studies, including the actual time it takes to demonstrate clinical efficacy; the competitive landscape; changes in the economic and financial conditions of LogicBio. Other risks and uncertainties include those identified under the heading "Risk Factors" in LogicBio's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2021 and other filings that LogicBio may make with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission in the future. These forward-looking statements (except as otherwise noted) speak only as of the date of this press release, and LogicBio does not undertake, and specifically disclaims, any obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained in this press release.
Investor Contact:
Stephen Jasper
Gilmartin Group
(858) 525-2047
stephen@gilmartinir.com
Media Contacts:
Adam Daley
Berry & Company Public Relations
(212) 253-8881
adaley@berrypr.com
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SOURCE LogicBio Therapeutics, Inc. | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/08/15/logicbio-therapeutics-reports-second-quarter-2022-financial-results-provides-corporate-update/ | 2022-08-15T12:12:49Z |
Finally, Covid-19 vaccines for kids under the age of 5 are going into tiny arms and legs this week. Since the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended two options for this age group -- one from Pfizer/BioNTech and another from Moderna -- parents and caregivers may be wondering which one is right for their child.
They both use an mRNA platform and both are considered safe and well tolerated. Pediatricians CNN spoke with around the country suggest either is a good option.
"I think they're both highly efficacious with very great side effect profiles and I would not hesitate to give my kids either," said Dr. Nina Alfieri, a pediatrician at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago. "I think both are really good options."
Both seem to create protective antibodies in little kids like they do in young adults. There are only subtle differences and one may be a better fit for some kids than the other.
Eligible ages
Moderna's Covid-19 vaccine is now authorized for children who are 6 months through 5 years old. Pfizer's is for children 6 months through 4 years old.
Pfizer's vaccine was previously authorized for children as young as 5. Moderna's vaccine for people ages 6 through 17 was recently authorized by the US Food and Drug Administration, and the CDC's vaccine advisers will vote this week on whether to recommend it.
Dose size and schedule
A child who gets the Moderna vaccine won't have to go to the doctor or pharmacy as often, and they'll get protection a little quicker than the Pfizer vaccine.
The Moderna series is complete with two 25-microgram doses given a month apart. Kids with compromised immune systems would get a third shot. The Moderna shot for young children is a quarter of the size that adults get.
With Pfizer, it takes three shots for the series to be complete. The company initially tried two doses, but trial data showed that after the second dose, the vaccine didn't generate enough of an immune response. The three-dose vaccine authorized last week is one-tenth the size of the adult Pfizer dose.
With Pfizer, the first two shots are given three weeks apart. The third can be given at least eight weeks after the second. In total, it can take almost three months for the child to have the full series.
Down the road, scientists may want kids to get boosters with either company's vaccine.
Fever
Kids were slightly more prone to get a fever with the Moderna vaccine; it happened with about a quarter of the trial participants, versus less than 10% with Pfizer. Most of the fevers were mild. Less than 1% of all participants in the trial had a fever that reached 104 degrees.
"That was rare, but I feel like if we're not honest with parents, when these things come out, that will be concerning," said Dr. Grant Paulsen, the principal site investigator for the Pfizer and the Moderna Covid-19 vaccine clinical trials for kids 6 months to 11 years old at Cincinnati Children's.
"The odds are, most children are just going to do fine and have really minimal problems," he said. "The majority are not going to have major side effects."
Moderna said that other illnesses that cause fever were in circulation during the trial, and that may have led to some of those fevers, since 10.6% of the kids in the placebo group of the trial that didn't get the vaccine reported a fever.
Dr. Claudia Hoyen, a pediatric infectious disease specialist at UH Rainbow Babies Hospitals in Cleveland said she understands why parents hate to see their child develop a fever, but they should be reassured the fever doesn't cause any kind of permanent damage or long-term problems and should resolve quickly on its own or in response to over-the-counter medicine like Tylenol or Motrin.
"I think if you keep that in mind and realize that, yes, it's scary, but it can be manageable," Hoyen said. "People should work with their pediatrician. I think a lot of the kids with the first dose may or may not even see a fever, but people should work with their pediatrician in case they do and come up with a good plan and that will be the best thing to do. It should resolve quickly."
General side effects
The safety data from Moderna and Pfizer, vetted by the FDA and CDC, found potential side effects were mostly mild and short-lived.
Side effects for both most commonly included pain at the injection site, and sometimes there was swelling or redness.
As far as systemic or body-wide symptoms, the most common was fatigue or sleepiness. Some children had irritability or fussiness, loss of appetite, headache, abdominal pain or discomfort, enlarged lymph nodes, mild diarrhea or vomiting. But everyone got better quickly.
"It's very similar to the side effects we've seen for older kids or for adults. About 24 hours of some kids, you know, they kind of don't feel as well, they feel tired, they don't have the same appetite. But thankfully, there have not been any serious side effects of these vaccines," Dr. Ashish Jha, White House Covid-19 response coordinator, said on CBS on Monday.
Scientists did not see any serious or rare side effects in the trials. They were watching closely for any signs that children developed problems with myocarditis, inflammation of the heart muscle, because there were a handful of cases among older children and adults. But myocarditis was not identified in the trials in young children.
Vaccine effectiveness
Both vaccines were tested when the Omicron variant was the dominant strain of coronavirus. Studies show that no matter what the age or dose level, this particular variant was more successful at evading the protection offered by either company's vaccine.
The Omicron variant was tricky for this age group in general. Without access to a vaccine, hospitalization rates among kids 5 and younger were five times as high during the peak of Omicron in the winter, compared to when the Delta variant was the dominant strain last summer, according to a March report from the CDC.
Moderna was estimated to be 36.8% effective against symptomatic disease for 2-to-5-year-olds and 50.6% protective against symptomatic disease for those 6-to-23 months old.
For the Pfizer vaccine, there have only been 10 Covid cases in the vaccinated and placebo group in the trial -- that's too small a number to estimate the vaccine's efficacy. The topline efficacy data from the preliminary findings is "encouraging" though, according to the company. And the FDA said that the immune response to the vaccine for 6 through 23 months of age, and 2 through 4 years of age was comparable to the immune response of the older participants, but more research will be needed.
Bottom line: Get vaccinated
Get the vaccine that's available, the experts said.
"I do not think it's clear that one is any better than the other. They are different," said Paulsen. "It is very much what the parents prefer. Balancing those differences as well as, honestly, what's available and what their pediatrician has or what the local hospital has."
Doctors also suggest looking online or calling to find out what the local site is offering. Not every location will offer both shots. Some vaccine clinics may also not be offering little kid vaccines or may have restrictions on the ages they serve. CVS stores that have MinuteClinics, for instance, will vaccinate this new age group, but only if the child is 18 months or older.
Vaccines.gov may be helpful. The website provides some information on clinics listed by category.
The-CNN-Wire
™ & © 2022 Cable News Network, Inc., a WarnerMedia Company. All rights reserved. | https://www.albanyherald.com/features/health/how-are-the-pfizer-and-moderna-vaccines-for-young-children-different/article_f04247a1-96f6-5e03-9f9a-56da0f33fb10.html | 2022-06-21T22:07:58Z |
KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — Poppies, the blood-red flowers that cover the battlefields of Europe’s two world wars, were lain in mourning Saturday on the coffin of yet another dead soldier, this one killed in yet another European war, in Ukraine.
The hundreds of mourners for Roman Ratushnyi, 24, included friends who had protested with him during months of demonstrations that toppled Ukraine’s pro-Russia leader in 2014 and who, like him, took up arms when Moscow launched its full-scale invasion of its neighbor this February.
The arc of his shortened life symbolized that of Ukraine’s post-independence generations that are sacrificing their best years in the cause of freedom. First, with defiance and dozens of lives against brutal riot police during Ukraine’s Maidan protests of 2013-2014 and now with weapons and even more lives against Russian President Vladimir Putin’s troops.
“Heroes never die!” friends, family and admirers shouted in Ukrainian as Ratushnyi’s coffin was loaded aboard a hearse on a square in the Ukrainian capital now decorated with destroyed Russian tanks and vehicles. Their charred hulks contrasted with the shiny gold domes of an adjacent cathedral where priests had earlier sung prayers for Ratushnyi, who was well-known in Kyiv for his civic and environmental activism.
From the square, the mourners then walked in a long silent column behind his coffin to Maidan Nezalezhnosti, or Independence Square. The vast plaza in central Kyiv gave its name to the three months of protests that overthrew then President Viktor Yanukovych in 2014 and which helped fuel the political and patriotic awakening of Ukrainians born after independence in 1991.
Ratushnyi had “a heart full of love for Ukraine,” said Misha Reva, who traveled overnight in his soldier’s uniform from front lines in the east to say goodbye to the friend he met for the first time on Maidan, in the midst of the protests. Ratushnyi was then just 16; Reva was in his early 20s. It was Ratushnyi who introduced Reva to the woman who is now his wife, also on the square.
While the funeral was underway in central Kyiv, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy made a trip south to visit troops defending the front line in the Mykolaiv region. He handed out awards to men and women in camouflage, shaking their hands.
“I thank each and every one of you, for the great work, for the great service, for what you do protecting our country, each of us, our families,” Zelenskyy said in what appeared to be the basement of a building.
He also visited the city of Mykolaiv, on the Black Sea coast, where he met with the governor and went to see the ruins of the administration building, which was destroyed by Russian shelling in April that killed at least 34 people.
In other developments Saturday, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson expressed concerns “that a bit of Ukraine fatigue is starting to set in around the world” and said Ukraine must be supported in trying to roll back the Russian invasion to “make sure the Ukrainians are not encouraged to go for a bad peace, something that simply wouldn’t endure.”
“It would be a catastrophe if Putin won. He’d love nothing more than to say, ‘Let’s freeze this conflict, let’s have a cease-fire,'” Johnson said. “For him that would be a tremendous victory. You’d have a situation in which Putin was able to consolidate his gains and then to launch another attack.”
Johnson spoke on his return from a surprise trip Friday to Kyiv where he met with Zelenskyy to offer continued aid and military training.
Western-supplied heavy weapons are reaching front lines, although not in quantities that Ukrainian officials say would be needed to push back Russian forces to positions they occupied before the invasion or beyond. The Associated Press was granted rare access Saturday to the firing of U.S.-supplied M777 howitzers on Russian positions in Ukraine’s eastern Donbas region. The powerful artillery pieces are helping Ukrainian forces reply in kind to Russian batteries that have been pounding towns and villages to rubble.
In Kyiv. the bells of St. Michael’s cathedral tolled as four soldiers carried Ratushnyi’s coffin to the memorial service Saturday morning, held outdoors in the church’s sunlit courtyard. Poppies and a traditional loaf of bread were placed on the coffin covered with Ukraine’s blue and yellow flag.
During the Maidan protests, where riot police used batons and eventually bullets with deadly abandon, Ratushnyi and Reva had taken shelter together for one night inside the cathedral grounds, the friend recalled.
“He was such a solid and big personality,” Reva said. “It’s a great loss for Ukraine.”
The friends then signed up to fight on the very first day of the Russian invasion on Feb. 24. After taking part in the defense of Kyiv in the assault’s opening weeks, Ratushnyi then joined an army brigade, doing military intelligence work, Reva said. Reva said he’s been fighting of late in positions away from where Ratushnyi was killed. Reva, 33, said two soldiers were killed and 15 wounded Thursday where he’s been stationed.
“People get killed every day on the front line,” he said.
Ratushnyi was killed on June 9 around the town of Izyum on the war’s eastern front, according to the environmental campaign group that he led in Kyiv. He fought for the preservation from development of a wooded park where people ski in winter.
“He was a symbol, a symbol of a new Ukraine, of freedom and a new generation that wants to fight for its rights,” said Serhli Sasyn, 21.
The “best people are dying now.”
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Efrem Lukatsky in the Donbas region of Ukraine, and Inna Varenytsia in Lisbon, Portugal, contributed to this report.
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Follow the AP’s coverage of the war at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine | https://cw33.com/business/ap-business/in-ukraine-funeral-for-activist-killed-and-mourned-in-war/ | 2022-06-18T19:27:36Z |
NEW YORK (AP) — San Francisco left-hander Carlos Rodón, Boston designated hitter J.D. Martinez and Miami first baseman Garrett Cooper were added Tuesday for next week’s All-Star Game.
They replaced Philadelphia’s Bryce Harper and Houston’s Yordan Álvarez, who are hurt, and Milwaukee closer Josh Hader, who is skipping the July 19 game at Dodger Stadium because of family responsibilities.
Rodón made the All-Star team for the second straight season. He is 8-5 with a 2.70 ERA in 17 starts, striking out 124 and walking 32 in 100 innings.
Martinez, 34, is a five-time All-Star who is hitting .313 with nine homers, 38 RBIs and 29 doubles, tied for the American League lead. He earned a $100,000 bonus for his selection.
Cooper, 31, becomes the 31st first-time All-Star this year. He is batting .299 with seven homers and 40 RBIs.
Martinez and Cooper each were next in player voting. Rodón was selected by Major League Baseball.
Hader spent a week on the paternity list in June after his son, Lucas, was born. His wife, Maria, had complications with her pregnancy.
“A lot on his plate, for sure, these last six weeks,” Brewers manager Craig Counsell said in Minneapolis before a two-game series against the Twins. “The All-Star Game’s a great honor, and it’s not an easy choice.”
Said Hader: “I think my duty is to be with my family, and I think just to be ready for the second half. My family needs me at this time, and that’s just kind of the decision that we made.”
Harper was elected as the National League’s designated hitter but broke his left thumb when hit by a pitch from San Diego’s Blake Snell on June 25. He was replaced in the starting lineup by Atlanta’s William Contreras.
Álvarez went on the injured list Sunday because of a ailing right hand that has gotten worse since he first got hurt June 18 against the Chicago White Sox.
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More AP MLB: https://apnews.com/tag/MLB and https://twitter.com/AP_Sport | https://cw33.com/sports/ap-sports/all-stars-rodon-martinez-cooper-in-hader-harper-out/ | 2022-07-13T21:07:39Z |
SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — Memphis guard Ja Morant is unlikely to play in Game 4 of the Western Conference semifinals against Golden State on Monday night after injuring his right knee on a play with Jordan Poole that the teams are debating from the Grizzlies’ 142-112 loss Saturday night.
Grizzlies coach Taylor Jenkins said Sunday he doesn’t expect Morant to be available with Memphis trailing the Warriors 2-1 in the best-of-seven series.
“As I said last night, just trying to be matter of fact here, and this is what Ja says, what our medical team has said after reviewing the play, Ja was playing great, feeling great all game and that the grab of the knee is what triggered the potential injury and why we took Ja out of the game. Nothing’s changed from there,” Jenkins said. “That’s the play that triggered this and he’s got further evaluation going on. … There’s probably a really good chance he doesn’t play tomorrow.”
Morant, who limped off with 6:19 remaining in the game, was unable to do any basketball activity Sunday, Jenkins said.
“If he’s not able to go, we rally as a team and that’s what we’re focused on,” Jenkins said. “We’re not trying to get caught up in narratives. That’s why I’m just being matter of fact that this injury is caused by that play. I’m not going into any further detail outside of that. And then the fact that our team all season long has risen to the occasion when anybody’s been out. Obviously Ja’s been out for a number of games and our guys stepped up beautifully.”
Morant left Chase Center without speaking to reporters but posted and later deleted a video of the play on his Twitter feed with the words “broke the code,” a reference Warriors coach Steve Kerr had used four days earlier when Dillon Brooks’ hard foul in Game 2 sidelined Gary Payton II.
Poole and Andrew Wiggins swarmed Morant as he dribbled at the top of the 3-point arc when Morant struggled to keep possession — and Poole called it a basketball play with him going for the ball.
On Sunday, Kerr shrugged several times when asked about it and said he saw no need to discuss the latest back-and-forth between the franchises.
“I don’t have a take. Nothing to comment on. I watched the tape,” Kerr said. “… No, I don’t take it personally. I watched the play, there’s nothing to comment on.”
Grizzlies guard Tyus Jones called it an “interesting” play but said he didn’t believe Poole had malicious intent to hurt Morant.
“Ja’s spirits are good. Obviously. he’s frustrated. Anytime you’re hurt or banged up you’re frustrated,” Jones said. “… The play I just think it was an interesting play. I don’t think Poole or anybody in this series for that matter is necessarily a dirty player. But it was just an interesting play. That’s all I can really say on that. It was not a normal play that normally happens but I don’t think he was trying to injure 12 by any means.”
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More AP NBA coverage: https://apnews.com/hub/NBA and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports | https://cw33.com/sports/ap-sports/injured-grizzlies-star-ja-morant-unlikely-to-play-in-game-4/ | 2022-05-09T07:25:02Z |
Second Quarter NACCO Consolidated Highlights:
- Income before income tax increased to $45.1 million, up from $9.4 million in Q2 2021 primarily due to receipt of $30.9 million of contract termination settlement assets and significantly improved earnings in the Minerals Management segment
- Net income increased to $37.2 million, up from $6.5 million in Q2 2021
- Adjusted EBITDA increased to $21.0 million, up 37.0% from Q2 2021
- Diluted earnings per share increased to $5.07/share from $0.91/share in Q2 2021
CLEVELAND, Aug. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- NACCO Industries® (NYSE: NC) today announced consolidated operating profit of $29.7 million and net income of $37.2 million, or $5.07 per diluted share, for the second quarter of 2022 compared with consolidated operating profit of $8.7 million and net income of $6.5 million, or $0.91 per diluted share, for the second quarter of 2021.
In May 2022, Great River Energy ("GRE") completed the sale of the Coal Creek Station power plant and the adjacent high-voltage direct current transmission line to Rainbow Energy Center, LLC and its affiliates. As a result of the sale, the existing agreements between GRE and the Company's subsidiary, Falkirk Mining Company, terminated and GRE paid the Company $14.0 million, transferred ownership of an office building and conveyed membership units in a private company to NACCO. The new Coal Sales Agreement between Falkirk and Rainbow Energy became effective on May 1, 2022. Improvements in the Company's consolidated operating profit, Consolidated Adjusted EBITDA and net income were due to the contract termination settlement assets received from GRE, as well as significantly higher earnings in the Minerals Management segment. These favorable items were partly offset by unfavorable changes in the fair value of exchange-traded equity securities owned by the Company and an increase in unallocated employee-related expenses. Non-GAAP financial measures are defined and reconciled on pages 9 to 11.
For the six months ended June 30, 2022, the Company reported consolidated net income of $49.8 million, or $6.79 per diluted share, compared with net income of $15.5 million, or $2.16 per diluted share, for the first six months of 2021.
At June 30, 2022, the Company had consolidated cash of $97.1 million and debt of $18.4 million with availability of $119.9 million under its $150.0 million revolving credit facility. The Company believes that maintaining a conservative capital structure and adequate liquidity are important given evolving trends in energy markets and the Company's strategic initiatives to grow and diversify, which are discussed further in the Growth and Diversification section of this release.
In the first quarter of 2022, the Company changed the composition of its reportable segments. The 2021 financial information in this release has been reclassified to conform to the new presentation.
Detailed Discussion of Results
Coal Mining Results
Coal Mining revenues increased in the second quarter of 2022 from the second quarter of 2021 due to an increase in tons delivered at Mississippi Lignite Mining Company as a result of higher customer requirements and an increase in the per ton sales price.
Excluding the $14.0 million contract termination settlement, second-quarter 2022 Coal Mining operating profit decreased moderately from the prior year quarter. The decline was primarily due to reduced earnings at Mississippi Lignite Mining Company driven by the impact of inflation, including higher diesel costs, on the cost per ton delivered. An increase in operating expenses resulting from higher employee-related costs also contributed to the reduction in operating profit. These unfavorable factors were partially offset by an increase in earnings of unconsolidated operations.
The increase in earnings of unconsolidated operations was mainly attributable to an increase in earnings at Coteau Properties Company resulting from contractual price escalation. An increase in tons delivered due to an increase in customer requirements at the Coteau and Sabine Mines also contributed to the improvement in earnings. These increases were partly offset by the termination of the Bisti Fuels contract on September 30, 2021, reduced earnings at the Falkirk and Coyote Creek Mines resulting from reduced customer requirements and a reduction in the per ton management fee at Falkirk.
Coal Mining Outlook - 2022
Coal Mining operating profit in both the second half and for the full year of 2022 is expected to decrease significantly compared with the respective 2021 periods, both including and excluding the contract termination payments received in 2022 and 2021. The expected reduction in operating profit is primarily the result of reduced earnings at both consolidated and unconsolidated Coal Mining operations as well as an anticipated increase in operating expenses. The increase in operating expenses is primarily due to expected higher employee-related costs, professional fees and outside services.
Results at the consolidated mining operations are expected to decrease significantly in the second half of 2022 from the comparable 2021 period and the first half of 2022. This expected decrease is primarily due to an expected substantial decline in earnings at Mississippi Lignite Mining Company driven by an anticipated reduction in customer demand from higher than average levels in the second half of the prior year. Lower customer demand, expected cost inflation in the latter half of 2022 on diesel fuel, repairs and supplies, and higher depreciation expense related to recent capital expenditures to develop a new mine area are expected to contribute to an increase in the cost per ton in the second half of 2022. In general, cost per ton delivered is lowest when the power plant requires a consistently high level of coal deliveries, primarily because costs are spread over more tons. As a result of the anticipated increase in cost per ton, the 2022 full-year results are expected to be substantially lower than the 2021 full year.
The anticipated reduction in earnings at the unconsolidated Coal Mining operations for the second half of and full-year 2022, compared with the respective prior year periods, is expected to be driven primarily by the reduction in the per ton management fee at Falkirk from May 1, 2022 through May 31, 2024, as well as the termination of the Bisti Fuels contract as of September 30, 2021. These decreases are expected to be partly offset by higher earnings at Coteau.
Segment Adjusted EBITDA, which excludes the contract termination settlement payments of $10.3 million from Bisti Fuels' customer in 2021 and $14.0 million from GRE in 2022, is expected to decrease significantly in 2022 from 2021 primarily as a result of the forecasted reduction in operating profit partially offset by a higher add back of depreciation, depletion and amortization expense which is expected to increase in 2022. The increase in depreciation, depletion and amortization expense is primarily due to higher capital expenditures at Mississippi Lignite Mining Company as a result of the development of a new mine area.
Capital expenditures are expected to be approximately $15 million in the second half of 2022 and approximately $23 million for the full year. The elevated levels of capital expenditures from 2019 through 2022 relate to the necessary development of a new mine area at Mississippi Lignite Mining Company, which will allow continued coal deliveries through the end of the contract. The increase in capital expenditures associated with mine development will result in higher depreciation expense in future periods that will unfavorably affect future operating profit. Capital expenditures for Mississippi Lignite Mining Company are expected to decline significantly beginning in 2023.
The Company's contract structure at each of its coal mining operations eliminates exposure to spot coal market price fluctuations. However, fluctuations in natural gas prices and the availability of renewable power generation, particularly wind, can contribute to changes in power plant dispatch and customer demand for coal. Sustained higher natural gas prices could continue to result in increased demand for coal. Changes to expectations for customer power plant dispatch could affect the Company's outlook for 2022 and over the longer term. The owner of the power plant served by the Company's Sabine Mine in Texas intends to retire the power plant in the first quarter of 2023, at which time Sabine expects to begin final reclamation. Funding for mine reclamation is the responsibility of the customer.
North American Mining Results
Revenues at North American Mining increased in the second quarter of 2022 over the prior year primarily as a result of an increase in tons delivered at the consolidated operations driven by increased customer requirements and higher reimbursed costs. Reimbursed costs have an offsetting amount in cost of goods sold and have no impact on operating profit.
The lower operating profit was mainly attributable to an increase in operating expenses primarily due to higher employee-related costs.
North American Mining's second-quarter 2022 Segment Adjusted EBITDA was comparable to the prior year quarter. Lower operating profit was fully offset by the add back of substantially higher depreciation expense resulting from equipment acquired to support newer contracts that are expected to contribute to increased income in future periods.
North American Mining Outlook
North American Mining expects operating profit to increase in both the second half of 2022 and for the full year over the respective 2021 periods. The increase in the second half is primarily due to improved fourth quarter results, principally from a shift in mix of tons delivered to operations with higher-margin contracts, partially offset by an anticipated increase in operating expenses. Segment Adjusted EBITDA for 2022 is expected to increase significantly compared with the prior year as a result of the improvement in operating profit from higher reclamation income at Caddo Creek in the first half of 2022 and the add back of higher depreciation expense.
During the first quarter of 2022, North American Mining agreed to commission a new dragline at an existing quarry in Florida to secure a contract extension through 2027. This dragline will supplement an existing dragline, resulting in an expected increase in deliveries and income over the next five years at this quarry. North American Mining continues to have a substantial pipeline of potential new projects and is pursuing a number of growth initiatives that, if successful, would be accretive to future earnings.
In 2019, Sawtooth Mining, LLC, entered into a mining services agreement to serve as the exclusive contract miner for the Thacker Pass lithium project in northern Nevada, owned by Lithium Nevada Corp., a subsidiary of Lithium Americas Corp. (TSX: LAC) (NYSE: LAC). Lithium Americas owns the lithium reserves at Thacker Pass and will be responsible for the processing and sale of the lithium produced. In July 2022, Lithium Americas provided an update on the Thacker Pass project, which noted that all key state-level permits had been issued for Thacker Pass and feasibility study results are expected in the second half of 2022. At maturity, this management fee contract is expected to deliver fee income similar to a mid-sized management fee coal mine.
North American Mining previously forecasted capital expenditures of $28 million for 2022. North American Mining now expects full-year capital expenditures to be $13 million, with approximately $5 million expended in the second half of 2022 primarily for the acquisition, relocation and refurbishment of draglines, as well as the acquisition of other mining equipment to support the continued expansion of contract-mining services. The reduction in capital expenditures from the previous forecast is due to a change in the timing of the acquisition of equipment to support the Thacker Pass lithium project from 2022 to 2023.
Minerals Management Results
For the second quarter of 2022, Minerals Management revenue, operating profit and Segment Adjusted EBITDA increased significantly over the second quarter of 2021 primarily due to higher royalty income driven by significantly higher natural gas and oil prices. A $2.4 million gain on sale of land related to legacy operations also contributed to the increase in operating profit and Segment Adjusted EBITDA.
Minerals Management Outlook
The Minerals Management segment derives income from royalty-based leases under which lessees make payments to the Company based on their sale of natural gas, oil, natural gas liquids and coal, extracted primarily by third parties.
Excluding settlement income of $3.3 million recognized in the 2021 third quarter, operating profit and Segment Adjusted EBITDA in the second half of 2022 are expected to be comparable to the second half of 2021 but decrease significantly compared with the first half of 2022 primarily driven by current expectations for natural gas and oil prices and an anticipated reduction in production volumes. As a result of the substantial earnings in the first half of 2022, the Company expects a significant increase in full-year 2022 operating profit over 2021.
Commodity prices are inherently volatile and as an owner of royalty and mineral interests, the Company's access to information concerning activity and operations with respect to its interests is limited. The Company's expectations are based on the best information currently available and could vary positively or negatively as a result of adjustments made by operators and/or changes to commodity prices.
In the first quarter of 2022, Minerals Management completed a small acquisition of mineral interests in the New Mexico portion of the Permian basin for $0.7 million. Minerals Management is targeting additional investments in mineral and royalty interests of approximately $12 million in the second half of 2022. These investments are expected to be accretive, but each investment's contribution to earnings is dependent on the details of that investment, including the size and type of interests acquired and the stage and timing of mineral development. The contribution of each investment could also vary due to commodity price changes. These acquired interests are expected to align with the Company's strategy of selectively acquiring mineral and royalty interests with a balance of near-term cash-flow yields and long-term growth potential, in high-quality reservoirs offering diversification from the Company's legacy mineral interests.
Consolidated Outlook
Overall for the 2022 full year, excluding the settlements associated with the GRE/Rainbow Energy transaction and the Bisti termination fee recognized in 2021, NACCO expects consolidated operating profit and net income to decline moderately from 2021. Lower operating profit in the Coal Mining segment is expected to be partially offset by a significant increase in earnings at the Minerals Management segment primarily from the substantial increase in Minerals Management's earnings in the first half of 2022. In addition, income realized in 2021 on exchange-traded equity securities held by the Company is not expected to reoccur due to a deterioration in public equity markets during 2022. The effective income tax rate, including the settlements associated with the GRE/Rainbow Energy transaction is expected to be between 15% and 17%. In 2022, Consolidated Adjusted EBITDA, which excludes the termination and settlement payments, is expected to be comparable to 2021.
Consolidated capital expenditures are expected to be approximately $61 million in 2022 and include approximately $12 million for expenditures at Mitigation Resources of North America®. In 2022, cash flow before financing activities is expected to be significantly lower than in 2021 as a result of the anticipated increase in capital expenditures in 2022.
Growth and Diversification
The Company is pursuing growth and diversification by strategically leveraging its core mining and natural resources management skills to build a strong portfolio of affiliated businesses. Management continues to be optimistic about the long-term outlook for growth in the North American Mining and Minerals Management segments and in the Company's Mitigation Resources of North America business. Each of these businesses continues to expand its pipeline of potential new projects with opportunities for growth and diversification.
North American Mining is pursuing growth and diversification by expanding the scope of its business development activities to include potential customers who require a broad range of minerals and materials and by leveraging the Company's core mining skills to expand the range of contract mining services it provides. North American Mining continues to pursue additional opportunities to provide comprehensive mining services to operate entire mines, as it expects to do at the lithium project in Nevada. The goal is to build North American Mining into a leading provider of contract mining services for customers that produce a wide variety of minerals and materials. The Company believes North American Mining can grow to be a substantial contributor to operating profit, delivering unlevered after-tax returns on invested capital in the mid-teens as this business model matures and achieves significant scale, but the pace of growth will be dependent on the mix and scale of new projects.
The Minerals Management segment continues to grow and diversify by pursuing acquisitions of mineral and royalty interests in the United States. The Minerals Management segment will benefit from the continued development of its mineral properties without additional capital investment, as all further development costs are borne entirely by third-party producers who lease the minerals. This business model can deliver higher average operating margins over the life of a reserve than traditional oil and gas companies that bear the cost of exploration, production and/or development. Catapult Mineral Partners, the Company's business unit focused on managing and expanding the Company's portfolio of oil and gas mineral and royalty interests, has developed a strong network to source and secure new acquisitions, and has several potential acquisitions under review. The goal is to construct a high-quality diversified portfolio of oil and gas mineral and royalty interests in the United States that deliver near-term cash flow yields and long-term projected growth. The Company believes this business will provide unlevered after-tax returns on invested capital in the low-to-mid-teens as the portfolio of reserves and mineral interests grows and this business model matures.
Mitigation Resources of North America continues to expand its business, which creates and sells stream and wetland mitigation credits and provides services to those engaged in permittee-responsible mitigation. This business offers an opportunity for growth and diversification in an industry where the Company has substantial knowledge and expertise and a strong reputation. During the first half of 2022, Mitigation Resources purchased property to establish a new mitigation bank north of Dallas/Fort Worth and established a joint venture to provide mitigation services for the Lake Ralph Hall project in Northern Texas. With these new 2022 projects, Mitigation Resources is involved in over 10 mitigation banks and permittee-responsible mitigation projects in Tennessee, Alabama, Mississippi and Texas and is making strong progress toward its goal to be a top ten U.S. provider of stream and wetland mitigation services. The Company believes that Mitigation Resources can provide solid rates of return as this business matures.
The Company also continues to pursue activities which can strengthen the resiliency of its existing coal mining operations. The Company remains focused on managing coal production costs and maximizing efficiencies and operating capacity at mine locations to help customers with management fee contracts be more competitive. These activities benefit both customers and the Company's Coal Mining segment, as fuel cost is a significant driver for power plant dispatch. Increased power plant dispatch results in increased demand for coal by the Coal Mining segment's customers. Fluctuating natural gas prices and availability of renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar, could affect the amount of electricity dispatched from coal-fired power plants.
The Company is committed to maintaining a conservative capital structure as it continues to grow and diversify, while avoiding unnecessary risk. Strategic diversification will generate cash that can be re-invested to strengthen and expand the businesses. The Company also continues to maintain the highest levels of customer service and operational excellence with an unwavering focus on safety and environmental stewardship.
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Conference Call
In conjunction with this news release, the management of NACCO Industries will host a conference call on Thursday, August 4, 2022 at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time. To participate in the live call, please register more than 15 minutes in advance at https://ige.netroadshow.com/registration/q4inc/11029/nacco-q2-2022-earnings-conference-call/ to obtain the dial-in information and conference call access codes. For those not planning to ask a question of management, the Company recommends listening to the call via the online webcast, which can be accessed through the NACCO Industries' website at ir.nacco.com/home. Please allow 15 minutes to register, download and install any necessary audio software required to listen to the webcast. A replay of the call will be available shortly after the call ends through August 11, 2022. An archive of the webcast will also be available on the Company's website two hours after the live call ends.
Non-GAAP and Other Measures
This release contains non-GAAP financial measures within the meaning of Regulation G promulgated by the Securities and Exchange Commission. Included in this release are reconciliations of these non-GAAP financial measures to the most directly comparable financial measures calculated in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP"). Consolidated Adjusted EBITDA and Segment Adjusted EBITDA are provided solely as supplemental non-GAAP disclosures of operating results. Management believes that Consolidated Adjusted EBITDA and Segment Adjusted EBITDA assist investors in understanding the results of operations of NACCO Industries. In addition, management evaluates results using these non-GAAP measures.
Forward-looking Statements Disclaimer
The statements contained in this news release that are not historical facts are "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. These forward-looking statements are made subject to certain risks and uncertainties, which could cause actual results to differ materially from those presented. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date hereof. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly revise these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that arise after the date hereof. Among the factors that could cause plans, actions and results to differ materially from current expectations are, without limitation: (1) changes to or termination of customer or other third-party contracts, or a customer or other third party default under a contract, (2) any customer's premature facility closure, (3) a significant reduction in purchases by the Company's customers, including as a result of changes in coal consumption patterns of U.S. electric power generators, or changes in the power industry that would affect demand for the Company's coal and other mineral reserves, (4) changes in the prices of hydrocarbons, particularly diesel fuel, natural gas, natural gas liquids and oil, (5) failure or delays by the Company's lessees in achieving expected production of natural gas and other hydrocarbons; the availability and cost of transportation and processing services in the areas where the Company's oil and gas reserves are located; federal and state legislative and regulatory initiatives relating to hydraulic fracturing; and the ability of lessees to obtain capital or financing needed for well-development operations and leasing and development of oil and gas reserves on federal lands, (6) failure to obtain adequate insurance coverages at reasonable rates, (7) supply chain disruptions, including price increases and shortages of parts and materials, (8) the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, including any impact on suppliers, customers and employees, (9) changes in tax laws or regulatory requirements, including the elimination of, or reduction in, the percentage depletion tax deduction, changes in mining or power plant emission regulations and health, safety or environmental legislation, (10) the ability of the Company to access credit in the current economic environment, or obtain financing at reasonable rates, or at all, and to maintain surety bonds for mine reclamation as a result of current market sentiment for fossil fuels, (11) impairment charges, (12) the effects of investors' and other stakeholders' increasing attention to environmental, social and governance ("ESG") matters, (13) changes in costs related to geological and geotechnical conditions, repairs and maintenance, new equipment and replacement parts, fuel or other similar items, (14) regulatory actions, changes in mining permit requirements or delays in obtaining mining permits that could affect deliveries to customers, (15) weather conditions, extended power plant outages, liquidity events or other events that would change the level of customers' coal or aggregates requirements, (16) weather or equipment problems that could affect deliveries to customers, (17) changes in the costs to reclaim mining areas, (18) costs to pursue and develop new mining, mitigation and oil and gas opportunities and other value-added service opportunities, (19) delays or reductions in coal or aggregates deliveries, (20) the ability to successfully evaluate investments and achieve intended financial results in new business and growth initiatives, (21) disruptions from natural or human causes, including severe weather, accidents, fires, earthquakes and terrorist acts, any of which could result in suspension of operations or harm to people or the environment, and (22) the ability to attract, retain, and replace workforce and administrative employees.
About NACCO Industries
NACCO Industries® brings natural resources to life by delivering aggregates, minerals, reliable fuels and environmental solutions through its robust portfolio of NACCO Natural Resources businesses. Learn more about our companies at nacco.com, or get investor information at ir.nacco.com.
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SOURCE NACCO Industries | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/08/03/nacco-industries-announces-second-quarter-2022-results/ | 2022-08-03T21:26:55Z |
FiscalNote's VoterVoice and its Customers — Health Policy Advocates, Credit Union National Association, Cruise Lines International Association, and National Retail Federation — Receive Top Honors
WASHINGTON, May 19, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- FiscalNote, a leading technology provider of global policy and market intelligence, was named a 2022 Reed Awards Finalist in the "Best Data Analytics Solutions" category for its flagship advocacy product VoterVoice. FiscalNote's client, Health Policy Advocates (HPA), was awarded "Best Use of Data Analytics in Online Fundraising" for its groundbreaking campaign, "Leveraging Data to Improve Public Health Infrastructure Across the Nation."
Named for Campaigns & Elections Founder Stanley Foster Reed, the Reed Awards honor organizations across 22 distinct categories, representing the various sectors within the political campaign industry, including international work and grassroots advocacy. All finalist entries can be viewed on the Reed Awards website.
FiscalNote's flagship advocacy product, VoterVoice, was named a finalist in the "Best Data Analytics Solutions" category with its new feature VoterVoice Insights, which leverages real-time data to provide industry-specific benchmarks for users to compare and refine their advocacy campaigns.
FiscalNote customer Health Policy Advocates (HPA) won in the category of "Best Use of Data Analytics in Online Fundraising" for its initiative "Leveraging Data to Improve Public Health Infrastructure Across the Nation." HPA used FiscalNote for tracking legislation at a state and regional level, plus bill analysis, to create its 2021 Vaccine Policy State Legislative Scorecard, which scored over 900 vaccine-related bills across the United States. Leveraging FiscalNote data, HPA used the scorecard to help bridge the gap between public health and political trends, and even provide its clients with information on key stakeholders to help them build a holistic and actionable strategy.
Several other FiscalNote customers were recognized as part of the Reed Awards:
- Credit Union National Association (CUNA), Finalist, "Best Grassroots Advocacy Campaign:" CUNA used VoterVoice to launch a campaign mobilizing advocates and partners against an IRS provision in the Build Back Better Act (BBBA), resulting in more than 850,000 messages sent to Congress and over 235,000 new CUNA advocates.
- Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), Finalist, "Best Campaign Response to COVID-19:" CLIA's "Ready, Set, Sail" campaign leveraged the association's VoterVoice's Action Center to galvanize over 47,000 advocates to send 155,000 messages to members of Congress in support of cruise resumption.
- National Retail Federation (NRF), Winner, "Grassroots Trade Association of the Year:" NRF combines FiscalNote and VoterVoice to build a powerful and effective grassroots and government affairs strategy that makes it the leading voice for all segments of the retail industry.
"It's no secret that the last two years have been unique and challenging for advocacy professionals, but the Reed Awards are a great recognition of the resilience, excellence, and innovation exhibited in challenging times," said Krystal Putman-Garcia, Chief Marketing Officer and General Manager of Advocacy at FiscalNote. "Due to the pandemic, digital advocacy has become more timely and impactful than ever, and FiscalNote is proud to see how our customers rely on our industry-leading suite of products to push the boundaries and implement creative ideas to achieve their goals."
With recognitions at the 2022 Reed Awards, FiscalNote continues its impressive streak of honors for its advocacy campaigns and those developed on behalf of its customers. Last year, the company was also a finalist in the "Best Use of Data" category for the 2021 Reed Awards for its 2020 Advocacy Benchmark Report, which analyzed more than 394 million messages sent from FiscalNote's advocacy platforms during the 2019 calendar year.
About FiscalNote
FiscalNote is the premier information services company focused on global policy and market intelligence. By combining AI technology, expert analysis, and legislative, regulatory, and geopolitical data, FiscalNote is reinventing the way that organizations minimize risk and capitalize on opportunity. Home to CQ, Roll Call, Oxford Analytica, and VoterVoice, FiscalNote empowers more than 5,000 clients worldwide to monitor, manage, and act on the issues that matter most to them. To learn more about FiscalNote and its family of brands, visit FiscalNote.com and follow @FiscalNote.
Media Contact
Nicholas Graham
FiscalNote
press@fiscalnote.com
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SOURCE FiscalNote | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/05/19/fiscalnote-its-customers-campaigns-honored-across-multiple-categories-2022-reed-awards/ | 2022-05-19T18:42:01Z |
The suspect in an hourslong shooting that killed two law enforcement officers and injured several others in eastern Kentucky, was charged Friday with several counts of murder including murder of a police officer, and assault on a service animal, officials said.
Lance Storz, 49, was arraigned in Floyd County court Friday morning where the charges against him were explained. A judge set his bond at $10 million cash.
It is unclear whether Storz, who appeared via video with multiple bruises and lacerations on his face, has an attorney. The judge said he would appoint a public defender to represent him in future hearings.
Deputies on Thursday evening were serving a warrant related to a domestic violence incident in the city of Allen when Storz opened fire, Floyd County Sheriff John Hunt told reporters following the hearing.
"They encountered ... pure hell when they arrived. They had no chance," the sheriff said, adding later the deputies had not even made contact with the suspected shooter when the gunfire began.
The shooter seemed to have a plan and "pretty much executed that plan almost to precision," Hunt said. The sheriff said it took several hours to figure out where the gunman was firing from.
"[The suspect] was a sheer terrorist ... he was just a terrorist on a mission," the sheriff said.
The Sheriff's Office identified the deceased officers as Floyd County Deputy William Petry and Prestonsburg Police Capt. Ralph Frasure.
In a Facebook post, Prestonsburg Mayor Les Stapleton wrote the city "wishes to thank everyone for the show of support and community outpouring of love." He continued, "We have lost a long-time friend and a 39-year veteran of Law Enforcement in Floyd County, Ralph Frasure, who has left so many loved ones."
A preliminary investigation conducted by the Kentucky State Police has also determined a police dog hit by stray bullets has died as a result of those injuries.
Four other peace officers and one civilian were wounded, according to state police. Three of the officers remain hospitalized, with one in critical condition and the other two in stable condition. The fourth officer was treated and released. State police said the civilian is still hospitalized.
Floyd County Attorney Keith Bartley said Friday morning: "These are human beings. These are people with children, spouses, moms and dads, their world will never be the same."
Stapleton identified one officer in the hospital as Jacob Chaffins, who was just beginning his law enforcement career.
The sheriff said one deputy who took cover under a running patrol vehicle ended up with carbon monoxide poisoning.
"Other officers were injured in other ways, of trying to either get in some kind of position or get out of the position." said Hunt.
Deputies were eventually able to negotiate with Storz, with assistance from his family, after nearly six hours of active shooting, officials said.
Bartley said "substantially more" charges are forthcoming. The initial "charges were done in the middle of a war zone basically."
Storz, who is in jail in Pike County, is next due in court for a preliminary hearing July 11 at 1:30 p.m.
Officials said Storz used multiple firearms in the attack on law enforcement.
"Floyd County and our brave first responders suffered a tragic loss last night. I want to ask all of Kentucky to join me in praying for this community. This is a tough morning for our commonwealth," Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear said in a Twitter post Friday.
The-CNN-Wire
™ & © 2022 Cable News Network, Inc., a WarnerMedia Company. All rights reserved. | https://www.albanyherald.com/news/sheriff-calls-man-suspected-of-fatally-shooting-two-law-enforcement-officers-a-terrorist-on-a/article_986c7f51-e80c-5cb6-8205-3fda6b0fde9c.html | 2022-07-01T22:56:59Z |
THE HAGUE, Netherlands (AP) — Dutch police on Wednesday released without charge two Belgians who were arrested a day earlier on suspicion of involvement in a daring smash and grab jewelry heist at a prestigious art fair.
Police in the southern Limburg province tweeted that the Belgians, aged 22 and 26, were detained shortly after the armed robbery at the TEFAF fair in Maastricht because their behavior “was suspicious enough at that moment” to merit it.
Investigations have now cleared both men of involvement, police said. No other arrests have been made in the hunt for the culprits.
Video of Tuesday’s robbery posted on social media showed one man dressed in slacks, sneakers, a jacket and cap pounding at something out of picture with a sledgehammer as an alarm rang. Three other men, also neatly dressed, stood guard around him. At least two appeared to be brandishing guns.
All four ran off together as people stood and gazed after them. Photos from the scene that also were posted on social media showed holes smashed in glass display cabinets at the TEFAF art fair. Nobody was injured and the show, which was evacuated after the robbery, reopened later in the day.
Police said the robbers had made off with jewelry, but have not elaborated on what they stole or the value of their haul. | https://cw33.com/entertainment-news/ap-entertainment/dutch-police-release-2-belgians-held-after-jewelry-heist/ | 2022-06-30T17:36:32Z |
AMAZING: Dog missing for months reunited with family after spelunkers find her in cave
CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (KFVS/Gray News) – Cave adventurers in Missouri made the discovery of a lifetime when they happened to come across a dog that had been missing for two months.
The dog’s owners, Kathy Bohnert and Jeff Bohnert, said they hadn’t seen their 13-year-old dog named Abby since June 9.
“It’s hard to believe, she’s been gone for so long,” Kathy Bohnert said.
They thought they would never see Abby again.
“I pretty much knew right away that she probably wasn’t coming back or that she had been injured and couldn’t get back,” Jeff Bohnert said.
But two months later, Abby is back home after an adventure no one saw coming.
This weekend, around 30 people with the Cave Research Foundation got together to map out some caves ahead of a bigger event in a few weeks.
Gerry Keene, who has been caving for over a decade, said about five kids were with the group. The children were walking quickly with excitement and got a little bit ahead of Keene and the group.
“All the sudden you get the kids going, ‘Dad! There’s a dog here!’” Keene said.
Lying in the middle of the cave, the kids had found Abby.
Group member Rick Haley said they could see the dog needed help quickly. Both Haley and Keene know cave rescue procedures and sprang into action.
They called authorities, and while they waited, Keene began going around nearby neighborhoods trying to find Abby’s owner.
“He walked around the neighborhood knocking on doors, showing a picture on a phone, ‘Hey is this your dog?’” Haley said.
The cavers could see Abby was malnourished and struggling to move and walk. They came up with the idea to use a duffle bag to get her above ground.
“I got that bag out, unzipped it, laid the blanket in, and the dog at that point walked over and sat in the bag,” Haley said. “Because the dog recognized that, ‘This is the driest, warmest and softest thing I’ve seen in a long time, and I’m just gonna lay on it.’”
They slowly worked together to get her to the surface.
“I’d hand her up, he’d set her down, he’d move up, then I’d move up, then we’d hand her up again,” Haley said.
The group of cavers found the Bohnerts and returned Abby home to them. The family just can’t believe she was alive and back home now.
Their daughter Rachel Bohnert, away at college, is over the moon her beloved childhood pet was found. When Abby was missing for so long, Rachel Bohnert said she lost hope.
When her dad FaceTimed her and told her he had a surprise, Rachel Bohnert was never expecting to see Abby on the other end of the phone.
“He flips the camera around and it’s her, and I was like, ‘How is she here?’” Rachel Bohnert said. “This is impossible that she’s still alive.”
Jeff Bohnert said Abby is getting back to her old self.
“She acts pretty normal, she really hasn’t barked yet, I guess she doesn’t have the energy for it,” Jeff Bohnert said.
The Bohnert family said Abby is very lucky the cavers found her when they did. The cavers agreed.
“You had the right people at the right place at the right time,” Haley said.
Kathy Bohnert said they are slowly adding more calories to Abby’s diet to get her healthy again. Her body has taken a hit because she spent so long in starvation mode, but the family is hopeful she will make a full recovery.
Copyright 2022 KFVS via Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved. | https://www.kxii.com/2022/08/11/amazing-dog-missing-months-reunited-with-family-after-spelunkers-find-her-cave/ | 2022-08-11T18:16:17Z |
NEW YORK, July 26, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Klein Law Firm announces that a class action complaint has been filed on behalf of shareholders of Verrica Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (NASDAQ: VRCA) alleging that the Company violated federal securities laws.
Class Period: May 28, 2021 to May 24, 2022
Lead Plaintiff Deadline: August 5, 2022
No obligation or cost to you.
Learn more about your recoverable losses in VRCA:
https://www.kleinstocklaw.com/pslra-1/verrica-pharmaceuticals-inc-loss-submission-form?id=30184&from=4
Verrica Pharmaceuticals, Inc. NEWS - VRCA NEWS
CLASS ACTION CASE DETAILS: The filed complaint alleges that Verrica Pharmaceuticals, Inc. made materially false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (1) there were manufacturing deficiencies at the facility where Verrica's contract manufacturer produced a bulk solution for the Company's lead product candidate, VP-102; (2) these deficiencies were not remediated when Verrica resubmitted its New Drug Application for VP-12 for molluscum; (3) the foregoing presented significant risks to Verrica obtaining regulatory approval of VP-102 for molluscum; and (4) as a result of the foregoing, defendants' positive statements about the Company's business, operations, and prospects were materially misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis.
WHAT THIS MEANS TO YOU AS A SHAREHOLDER: If you have suffered a loss in Verrica you have until August 5, 2022 to petition the court for lead plaintiff status. Your ability to share in any recovery doesn't require that you serve as a lead plaintiff.
NO COST TO YOU: If you purchased Verrica securities during the relevant period, you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out-of-pocket fees.
HOW TO PROTECT YOUR FINANCIAL INTERESTS: For additional information about the VRCA lawsuit, please contact J. Klein, Esq. by telephone at 212-616-4899 or click this link: https://www.kleinstocklaw.com/pslra-1/verrica-pharmaceuticals-inc-loss-submission-form?id=30184&from=4.
ABOUT KLEIN LAW FIRM
J. Klein, Esq. represents investors and participates in securities litigations involving financial fraud throughout the nation. The Klein Law Firm is a boutique litigation firm with experience in a wide range of areas including securities law, corporate finance and commercial litigation. Since 2011, our experienced attorneys have achieved superior results for our clients with a personalized focus. Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.
CONTACT:
J. Klein, Esq.
Empire State Building
350 Fifth Avenue
59th Floor
New York, NY 10118
jk@kleinstocklaw.com
Telephone: (212) 616-4899
www.kleinstocklaw.com
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SOURCE The Klein Law Firm | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/07/26/vrca-alert-klein-law-firm-announces-lead-plaintiff-deadline-august-5-2022-class-action-filed-behalf-verrica-pharmaceuticals-inc-shareholders/ | 2022-07-26T10:10:36Z |
Coast Guard: Boats collide in Florida, 2 dead, 10 rescued
MIAMI (AP) — Two people were killed and 10 others had to be rescued when their boats collided at night near Key Biscayne in South Florida, the U.S. Coast Guard and local authorities say.
The Coast Guard said a person involved in the collision notified the agency of the crash around 10:30 p.m. Friday night.
Two bodies were recovered in the ensuing rescue operation, one by the Coast Guard Station Miami Beach and another by Miami-Dade Fire Rescue, officials said. The Coast Guard said in a statement that one of its aircrews in an MH-65 Dolphin helicopter played a key role in the emergency response.
A rescue swimmer also was sent to assist two critically injured people, one of whom was transferred to Jackson Memorial Medical Center for care. Nine other survivors were sent to another hospital for treatment, authorities said. Their names were not released.
“On behalf of the Coast Guard and our partner agencies, we’d like to offer our sincerest condolences to the families and friends who lost their loved ones,” said Lt. Cmdr. Benjamin Tuxhorn, Coast Guard Sector Miami search-and-rescue mission coordinator.
He said the Coast Guard and local first responders worked exhaustively on the search and rescue.
The collision is under investigation by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
Copyright 2022 WWSB. All rights reserved. | https://www.mysuncoast.com/2022/06/19/coast-guard-boats-collide-florida-2-dead-10-rescued/ | 2022-06-19T16:44:29Z |
NEW YORK, May 23, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Pomerantz LLP is investigating claims on behalf of investors of Innovative Industrial Properties, Inc. ("IIPR" or the "Company") (NYSE: IIPR). Such investors are advised to contact Robert S. Willoughby at newaction@pomlaw.com or 888-476-6529, ext. 7980.
The investigation concerns whether IIPR and certain of its officers and/or directors have engaged in securities fraud or other unlawful business practices.
On April 14, 2022, Blue Orca Capital ("Blue Orca") published a short report on IIPR, which it described as "a marijuana bank masquerading as a REIT." The Blue Orca reported asserted, among other things, that "[i]n the last 17 months . . . IIPR's loan book appears to have degraded significantly as the sector has become more competitive and IIPR stretched for lower quality tenants in search of continuing growth", that "IIPR's largest tenant is a failed SPAC that appears to be in severe financial distress and was recently sued by investors", and that "[u]nlike with other REITs, IIPR cannot expect to recover the lost income from defaulting tenants because it appears that the actual values of its properties are substantially below their carrying value on IIPR's balance sheet."
On this news, IIPR's stock price fell $13.76, or 7.50% to close at $169.68 per share on April 15, 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. 9980
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SOURCE Pomerantz LLP | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/05/23/shareholder-alert-pomerantz-law-firm-investigates-claims-behalf-investors-innovative-industrial-properties-inc-iipr/ | 2022-05-24T00:30:37Z |
EU urges members to work together to renew weapons stocks
BRUSSELS (AP) — The European Union is urging member countries to quickly replenish their depleted stocks of ammunition and military equipment. It’s ready to offer financial incentives to those willing to work together to replace materiel, some of which has been sent to help Ukraine. Many of the EU’s 27 member countries have sent equipment to help Ukrainian troops since Russia invaded. At first it was mostly ammunition, but now includes portable missiles to destroy warplanes and tanks, as well as heavier equipment. The EU commission is offering a fund of $526 million over two years to countries willing to work in groups of at least three to replenish their stocks. | https://localnews8.com/news/ap-national-business/2022/05/18/eu-urges-members-to-work-together-to-renew-weapons-stocks/ | 2022-05-18T17:01:22Z |
Tesla CEO Elon Musk and Twitter are bracing for a legal fight after the billionaire said Friday he was abandoning his $44 billion bid for the social media company.
Twitter is vowing to challenge Musk in court to uphold the agreement. Shares of Twitter slid more than 11% on Monday. Here’s a look at what could happen next.
WHY IS MUSK BACKING OUT?
There are a lot of reasons why Musk might have had second thoughts. But he alleged Friday that Twitter has failed to provide enough information about the number of fake accounts it has.
Twitter said last month that it was making available to Musk a “firehose” of public raw data on hundreds of millions of daily tweets. But Musk’s lawyers have argued that the company was providing Musk with sometimes “incomplete or unusable information” and less data than it offers some of its big customers.
Twitter said last week it uses a mix of public and private data to determine the amount of spam. Private user data isn’t available publicly and thus isn’t in the data “firehose” that it gave Musk. That would include IP addresses, phone numbers and location. Twitter said such private data helps avoid misidentifying real accounts as spam.
Twitter has said for years in regulatory filings that it believes about 5% of the accounts on the platform are fake. But on Monday Musk continued to taunt the company, using Twitter, over what he has described as a lack of data.
WHAT IS TWITTER’S RESPONSE?
Twitter declared its intent to sue Musk. The company could have pushed for a $1 billion breakup fee that Musk agreed to pay under these circumstances. Instead, it looks ready to fight to complete the purchase, which the company’s board has approved and CEO Parag Agrawal has insisted he wants to consummate.
The chair of Twitter’s board, Bret Taylor, tweeted Friday that the board is “committed to closing the transaction on the price and terms agreed upon” with Musk and “plans to pursue legal action to enforce the merger agreement. We are confident we will prevail in the Delaware Court of Chancery.”
The trial court in Delaware frequently handles business disputes among the many corporations, including Twitter, that are incorporated there.
WHO’S GOING TO WIN?
It’s almost impossible to predict the outcome of any protracted legal battle. But law and business experts believe Twitter likely has the stronger case.
Morningstar analyst Ali Mogharabi noted that Twitter has described its estimate of fake and spam accounts for years in regulatory filings while explicitly noting that the number might not be accurate given the use of data samples and interpretation.
Given current market conditions, Mogharabi said, Twitter may also have a solid argument that the layoffs and firings of the past weeks represent “an ordinary course of business.”
“Many technology firms have begun to control costs by reducing headcount and/or delaying adding employees,” he said. “The resignations of Twitter employees cannot with certainty be attributed to any change in how Twitter has operated since Musk’s offer was accepted by the board and shareholders.”
The case could also end in a settlement, for instance with the two sides negotiating a lower price. If Musk wins, there’s also the question of the $1 billion breakup fee. He can certainly afford it, but will he want to pay?
WHAT HAPPENS TO TWITTER NOW?
The Musk saga has been, to put it mildly, a distraction for Twitter’s workers, executives and even users. Some employees have quit, while others were laid off or fired. Job offers have been rescinded and discretionary spending curtailed.
“For Twitter this fiasco is a nightmare scenario,” Wedbush analyst Dan Ives, who follows the company, wrote Monday. He said the result would be “an Everest-like uphill climb for Parag & Co.” given concerns over employee morale and retention, advertiser concerns and other challenges.”
Twitter itself is unlikely to go anywhere regardless of whether or not it changes hands. But if the turmoil continues it could scare away advertisers. If too many engineers and other employees leave, the platform’s quality could suffer as well.
“The one bright spot is that if (Twitter) is ultimately victorious in the courts, it could potentially take north of the $1B in break-up fees that Musk could have to pay,” said CFRA Analyst Angelo Zino.
IF HE LOSES, WILL MUSK COMPLY?
Even if Musk loses the court case, some observers wonder if the world’s richest man will abide by the outcome. That’s in part based on his antagonistic approach to unfavorable actions from the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission over Musk’s tweets claiming he had the funding to take Tesla private in 2018.
That led to a securities fraud settlement with the SEC requiring that his tweets be approved by a Tesla attorney before being published. But the SEC later investigated whether the Tesla CEO violated the settlement with tweets last November asking Twitter followers if he should sell 10% of his Tesla stock.
Musk had argued that the agency can’t take action about his tweets without court authorization. This time, however, he could very well face an actual court order to pay the $1 billion breakup fee — or to finish the acquisition even if he doesn’t want to. | https://cw33.com/news/explainer-what-happens-next-in-the-musk-twitter-saga/ | 2022-07-12T14:20:49Z |
AMSTERDAM, July 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- VEON Ltd. (NASDAQ: VEON) (Euronext Amsterdam: VEON), a global digital operator that provides converged connectivity and services, announces the completion of two management share transfers as part of the Group's incentive program announced in February 2022.
Following our press release on 28 February 2022 detailing the new incentive plan rules and specific awards, today we can confirm the completion of share transfers to the Group CEO and Group CFO. The shares were awarded as part of VEON's Deferred Share Plan. This award represents a further step in aligning the executive team's remuneration with the successful implementation of our digital operator strategy and long-term value creation for our shareholders.
As previously communicated, Group Executive Committee ("GEC") members will over time accrue and then maintain a minimum level of VEON shares. This will be equivalent to 6.0x the annual base salary for the Group CEO and 2.0x annual base salary for other GEC members. Following this transaction, the total number of ADR/ORDs held by Kaan Terzioglu is 1,674,900 and by Serkan Okandan is 222,172.
Disclaimer
This press release contains "forward-looking statements", as the phrase is defined in Section 27A of the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Forward-looking statements are not historical facts, and include statements relating to, among other things, expectations regarding management plans and the ability to successfully execute operating model, governance, strategic and development plans. Forward-looking statements are inherently subject to risks and uncertainties, many of which VEON cannot predict with accuracy and some of which VEON might not even anticipate. The forward-looking statements contained in this release speak only as of the date of this release. VEON does not undertake to publicly update, except as required by U.S. federal securities laws, any forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances after such date or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.
About VEON
VEON is a NASDAQ and Euronext Amsterdam-listed global provider of connectivity and internet services. For more information visit: www.veon.com
Contact Information
VEON
Investor Relations
Nik Kershaw
ir@veon.com
+31 20 79 77 200
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SOURCE VEON Ltd | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/07/11/veon-management-increases-ownership/ | 2022-07-11T14:44:58Z |
BEIJING, May 18, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Berry Oncology, a leading company in the global industry for genetic testing and early screening of tumors, recently launched a HIFI system.
The HIFI system consists of HIFI-det liquid biopsy technology and the corresponding HIFI-cal series of algorithms.
With the commercial application of NGS technology, billions of DNA molecules can be simultaneously sequenced, and the changing characteristics of cancer-related biological information can be observed in different omics and different dimensions, which overcomes the deficiency of limited information obtained from previous single omics studies. Combining different information multi-omics methodology can improve the overall performance of cancer detection products.
The advantage of the HIFI system is that it can maintain the iterativeness and scalability of the core model through iterative optimization of biomarkers. This helps continuously optimize performance, reduce technical costs, and avoid cost increases due to increased omics and dimensions, thus making the cost of early screening technology affordable.
Currently, multi-omics cancer research based on NGS technology platforms has become the mainstream method used by leading early cancer screening companies in the world. The massive amount of biological information derived from different omics has also brought new challenges to its analysis, and corresponding algorithms have emerged as needed.
Since its establishment, Berry Oncology has selected cancer biomarkers through multi-omics based on NGS platform, and combined with the corresponding deep learning model. We has developed products covering every cancer processes, including early screening and early diagnosis, minimal residual disease, and recurrence monitoring.
Starting from the first liver cancer early screening product "Liver Screening" launched in August 2020, Berry Oncology has built early cancer screening models from multi-omics and multi-dimensional data, which leads to the emergence of the HIFI system.
Currently, based on the HIFI system, Berry Oncology has published performance data of early screening for liver cancer and multi tumor types (liver cancer, lung cancer, gastric cancer, colorectal cancer, esophageal cancer, pancreatic cancer): sensitivity and specificity of early screening for liver cancer reached 95.42% and 97.91%, respectively, and sensitivity and specificity of early screening for multi tumor types reached 87.58% and 99.09%, respectively. The data all reached the top level within the global industry.
Leveraging the HIFI system, Berry Oncology plans to launch one-time early cancer screening product for detecting six major tumor types in 2022, and expects increasing the detected tumor types in the next few years, while improving screening performance, and optimizing the HIFI technology. The ultimate goal is that successfully detecting "20+" tumor types through one-time blood draw.
Dr. Jiayan Wu, Head of Berry Oncology Institutes, said that multi-omics cancer research based on NGS platform has become a global technology trend. "The HIFI system, which continuously optimized in the past few years, has demonstrated superior performance, and we designed early cancer screening products through this system, and even serving the needs of every cancer process".
To our best knowledge, Berry Oncology has reached a global-leading level in NGS multi-omics cancer research. Zhou Jun, CEO of the company, said, "As a Chinese enterprise, Berry Oncology not only focuses on the development and transformation of more cutting-edge technologies, but also seeks solutions for the optimal mix of cost and performance. We are looking forward to cooperate with all relevant stakeholders - such as insurance companies and Internet healthcare platforms - to create a truly innovative and accessible ecosystem for cancer prevention".
About Berry Oncology
Berry Oncology is a leading company in the global industry for oncology genomic testing and early cancer screening. With a mission to "diagnose all cancers early, treat all patients precisely", we are committed to providing molecular detection products and services to benefit high-risk groups and patients at all stages of cancer, and collaborating with upstream and downstream partners such as pharmaceutical companies to explore innovative diagnosis and treatment options. Our clinical laboratories in Beijing and Fuzhou have completed the CAP certifications, and we have built 3 centers consisting of laboratories, supercomputing and R&D centers. Our diversified products and services range across genetic susceptibility, early cancer screening, companion diagnosis (CDx), efficacy assessment and prognosis monitoring. We have served more than 900 hospitals, helping hundreds of thousands of cancer patients and high-risk groups. In the field of early cancer screening, Berry Oncology took the lead in completing a large-scale prospective cohort study on early screening of liver cancer based on its independently-developed technology platform, and has achieved breakthrough research results in early screening for lung cancer and multiple cancers.
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SOURCE Berry Oncology | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/05/19/berry-oncology-launches-an-innovative-self-iterative-hifi-system/ | 2022-05-19T02:16:41Z |
The placement recognizes the beauty industry leader's long-standing commitment to gender equity and inclusion
NEW YORK, July 27, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- L'Oréal USA, the largest subsidiary of the L'Oréal Group, was recognized within the top 10 on America's Best Employers for Women, a list compiled by Forbes and market research company Statista. The ranking (#6) is the result of demonstrated strength in key areas such as diversity, working conditions and likeliness to recommend the employer as well as policies and practices that support women's professional development and advancement, including parental leave and pay equity. Gender-diverse leadership was also considered.
"At L'Oréal USA, we embed our diversity, equity and inclusion strategy within every aspect of our business and we have a rigorous, company-wide approach to ensuring ongoing progress toward our goals. That means we review our people data regularly, test new initiatives, work with trusted partners to benchmark and assess ourselves, and continuously optimize our strategy," said David Greenberg, CEO of L'Oréal USA. "We are honored to be recognized within the top 10 of America's Best Employers for Women by Forbes, and we are committed to being a best-in-class employer for people across all dimensions of diversity."
L'Oréal USA has a long-standing commitment to advancing gender equity, reflected in its data-driven approach and engagement with the EDGE (Economic Dividends for Gender Equality) Foundation to ensure external audits on internal initiative. In 2021, L'Oréal USA was recognized as the first company worldwide to be EDGEplus certified—a new standard recognizing organizations that go beyond gender and measure the intersectionality between gender and race/ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, and nationality. As part of the certification process, L'Oréal developed an internal global pay measurement tool based on the EDGE methodology to consistently measure and monitor equitable pay across its global workforce. The results demonstrated that L'Oréal USA exceeded the EDGE standard for pay equity at the organizational level, virtually eliminating a pay gap based on gender, controlling for observable and explainable factors such as performance.
L'Oréal USA also offers employees generous benefits including, but not limited to a 16-week parental leave policy that includes paid leave for childbirth at 100% of base pay for up to 8 consecutive weeks, plus paid bonding leave at 100% of base pay for up to 8 weeks for parents to bond with and care for a new child(ren), either through childbirth, adoption, surrogacy, legal guardianship or foster care. The company also offers Family Building Leave up to 8 weeks at 100% pay to support families in the adoption or surrogacy planning process.
For more information about L'Oréal USA's commitment to equity, visit: https://www.loreal.com/en/usa/.
About L'Oréal USA
L'Oréal USA is the largest subsidiary of the L'Oréal Group, the world's leading beauty company. Through its management of over 35 iconic beauty brands, L'Oréal USA has generated more than $8 billion in sales annually. Products are available across all distribution channels including hair salons, department stores, mass market, pharmacies, medi-spas, e-commerce and more. L'Oréal USA's commitment to growth is generated through sustainable innovation and driven by the company's L'Oréal for the Future ambition which demonstrates sustainable development across the Group's value chain. The company is headquartered in New York City, employs more than 11,000 people, and operates administrative, research, manufacturing and distribution facilities across 16 states.
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SOURCE L'Oreal USA | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/07/27/loral-usa-ranked-within-top-10-americas-best-employers-women-by-forbes/ | 2022-07-27T18:37:42Z |
Attorney Brittney Baca of Accident Attorneys in Lancaster, California has been selected for The National Trial Lawyers Top 40 Under 40 distinction for her work as a civil plaintiff attorney.
LANCASTER, Calif. , June 22, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Attorney Brittney Baca of Accident Attorneys in Lancaster, California was recently selected for The National Trial Lawyers Top 40 Under 40 distinction. She was selected for her outstanding work as a civil plaintiff attorney with a focus on motor vehicle accident claims and product liability cases.
Membership in this select group is highly limited and can only be obtained through an invitation. As the title implies, it is also limited only to attorneys who are under the age of 40.
The National Trial Lawyers Top 40 Under 40 distinguished members must demonstrate excellent legal skills, act as a leader in their legal and local communities, carry a positive reputation among their clients and peers, and maintain full compliance with state bar regulations. A multistep selection process that integrates peer nominations and independent research is used to select new members.
Accident Attorneys is a law firm known for passionate legal counsel that can secure a record-breaking verdict. Attorney Baca's recent selection to The National Trial Lawyers Top 40 Under 40 continues the firm's overall reputation for setting the example that other firms should follow. Brittney's National Trial Lawyers bio can be found at https://thenationaltriallawyers.org/profile-view/Brittney/Baca/30191/.
For more information about The National Trial Lawyers Top 40 Under 40, interested parties should visit https://thenationaltriallawyers.org/ntl-groups/top-40-under-40/. Additional information about Accident Attorneys and Attorney Brittney Baca can be found at www.avaccidentattorneys.com.
CONTACT:
Lancaster, CA
Chris Levinson
661-261-4929
chris@vititoelawgroup.com
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SOURCE Accident Attorneys | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/06/22/attorney-brittney-baca-selected-national-trial-lawyers-top-40-under-40-distinction/ | 2022-06-22T23:28:56Z |
SANTA CRUZ, Calif., Aug. 17, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- GOODLES™ – the new boxed mac and cheese brand known for making nutrient-packed mac and cheese with its proprietary recipe, real cheese, protein, fiber with prebiotics, 21 nutrients, has announced today a nationwide retail launch into Whole Foods Market stores. The first boxed mac and cheese to win the coveted Clean Label Purity Award will do an initial rollout of fan-favorite flavors, Cheddy Mac and Shella Good, which can be found in the prepared pasta aisle in single-serve boxes. This retail launch comes on the heels of the brand's official debut to consumers (direct-to-consumer) in November 2021 and its growing in-store presence, GOODLES mac and cheese is more than a childhood memory and exists to bring food science and nutrition to a beloved comfort food that tastes so good, the whole household can enjoy.
"When people think of boxed mac and cheese they may not think: clean ingredients, nutrients, protein, prebiotics and high fiber," said Gal Gadot, Founding Partner at GOODLES. "But that's exactly what's in our mac along with unbelievably delicious taste! Retailing our product through Whole Foods Market, we hope to make GOODLES available to more foodie, health-conscious people than ever before and further our mission of making a tastier, kinder, gooder world."
Having launched only 8 months ago, GOODLES has seen significant growth out of the gate, and has already filled over 2.5M bowls with their delicious mac and cheese. Founded by the award-winning Actress Gal Gadot, 4x CEO Jen Zeszut, former Annie's President Deb Luster, brand entrepreneur Paul Earle, and R&D leader Molly Michet, GOODLES continues to reinvent the billion-dollar prepared pasta aisle, which hasn't seen real innovation in decades, by prioritizing quality, nutrition and taste.
"GOODLES is a full circle moment back to mac and cheese and I am so excited to bring long overdue innovation and nutrition to the beloved mac and cheese category, while building an authentic community of do-gooders who also believe small acts can have a huge impact," said Deb Luster, Founding Partner and Chief Impact Officer of GOODLES.
Shella Good is aged white cheddar with shells. Cheddy Mac is the classic creamy cheddar mac. Both flavors boast 15 grams of protein per 1 cup prepared serving, six grams of fiber with prebiotics, no artificial flavors or preservatives, and 21 nutrients. Both Cheddy Mac and Shella Good are now available at Whole Foods Market nationwide.
"Creating a nutritious noodle that actually tastes good and cooks well is incredibly challenging," said Molly Michet, President of Research & Development and Founding Partner at GOODLES. "After nearly 1,000 trials, we struck gold and are so excited to have our delicious, nutrient-packed, protein mac and cheese on Whole Foods Market shelves."
"This is a pivotal time for our consumers as we roll out our first-ever natural channel retailer . We dreamed of GOODLES hitting the shelves at Whole Foods Market from the very beginning of our journey," said Paul Earle, Co-Founder and Board Director of GOODLES.
In August 2022, Cheddy Mac and Shella Good will be joined on shelves by Twist My Parm, Mover & Shaker (a cacio e pepe-inspired flavor) and GOODLES' brand new vegan mac and cheese. In fact, Whole Foods Market will be the first retailer in the US to feature Vegan Is Believin', their dairy-free, plant-based mac and cheese.
ABOUT
GOODLES are noodles, made gooder. A brand that launched in November 2021 born out of the idea that mac & cheese is the cornerstone of pleasurable eating and loved by all ages, yet often lacks nutrition and crave-worthy taste. Made with a proprietary noodle recipe that looks, tastes, cooks and chews just like the noodles we all love, GOODLES includes protein, fiber, prebiotics, is a Low Glycemic Index food, has 21 nutrients from plants, fewer calories and is the first boxed mac and cheese to win the coveted Clean Label Purity Award. GOODLES is HQ in Santa Cruz, CA and is committed to giving away at least 1% of all products sold to organizations that address food insecurity. GOODLES won a "Nextie" for being The Brand with Most Buzz.
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SOURCE GOODLES | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/08/17/goodles-mac-cheese-noodles-made-gooder-launches-nationwide-whole-foods-market/ | 2022-08-17T14:31:06Z |
DALLAS (KDAF) — It’s not Texas without a little bit of oil, however, a certain southeast Texan might need to stay humble after a big lottery win. Confused? Keep reading.
The Texas Lottery reports a $675,000 jackpot-winning ticket from Monday night’s Texas Two Step drawing was sold just outside of Houston. The winning ticket matched all four of the winning numbers along with the bonus to net the nearly $700K jackpot win.
The Quick Pick ticket was sold at Jack’s Grocery on Old Humble Road in the city of Humble. There were also 11 secondary prize winners whose tickets matched the four winning numbers and not the bonus to win $1,999.
It begs the question, how much oil could one individual buy with $675K? | https://cw33.com/news/texas/675000-jackpot-winning-texas-lottery-ticket-sold-near-houston/ | 2022-07-12T17:52:51Z |
The Blended Orangesicle Rebel will be featured for two weeks only!
GRANTS PASS, Ore., Aug. 17, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Sunny days and time spent with family and friends while creating all the memes…why would anyone want to say goodbye to summer so soon? The summer vibes continue at Dutch Bros with its newest featured drink! The Blended Orangesicle Rebel is now available at all of its more than 600 locations.
Experience the interactive Multichannel News Release here: https://www.multivu.com/players/English/8977755-dutch-bros-newest-featured-drink-blended-orangesicle-rebel/
- The Blended Orangesicle Rebel combines Dutch Bros' exclusive energy drink, Rebel, with orange and vanilla flavors - finished with Soft Top!
"It's not time to say goodbye to summer just yet," said Mary Beugelsdijk, senior product manager at Dutch Bros. "The Blended Orangesicle Rebel is the ultimate summer drink that has a nostalgic kick making you feel like a kid again. Enjoy the sweet summertime while you can with a Dutch Bros in hand!"
The Blended Orangesicle Rebel will be featured until the end of August but you can order it all year long, whenever you're in need of some summertime sips!
Dutch Bros Coffee is a drive-thru coffee company dedicated to making a massive difference one cup at a time. Headquartered in Grants Pass, Oregon, where it was founded in 1992 by Dane and Travis Boersma, it's now sharing the "Dutch Luv" with more than 600 locations in 14 states. Dutch Bros serves specialty coffee, smoothies, freezes, teas, an exclusive Dutch Bros Rebel™ energy drink and nitrogen-infused cold brew coffee. Its rich, proprietary coffee blend is handcrafted from start to finish.
In addition to its mission of speed, quality and service, Dutch Bros is committed to giving back to the communities it serves. Through its Dutch Bros Foundation and local franchisees, the company donates several million dollars to causes across the country each year.
To learn more about Dutch Bros, visit www.dutchbros.com, follow Dutch Bros Coffee on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, & TikTok, and download the Dutch Bros app to earn points and score rewards!
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SOURCE Dutch Bros Coffee | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/08/17/summer-isnt-over-yet-dutch-bros-continues-summertime-vibes-with-its-newest-featured-drink/ | 2022-08-17T13:01:56Z |
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — A night manager at a Washington state Arby’s who was arrested recently on child porn charges, also allegedly urinated into a milkshake mix at least twice, Vancouver police said Saturday.
Steven Sharp was booked into the Clark County Jail on nine separate charges after allegedly confessing to detectives he downloaded and distributed child porn and had a sexual interest in children. Sharp, who said he worked as the night manager at the Arby’s not far from the Portland International Airport, allegedly confessed to detectives when they were speaking with him on May 10.
When investigators got a search warrant for his digital devices, they said they found a video of Sharp urinating into a milkshake mix.
According to court documents, Sharp said he was “almost sure” he threw the bag away. He told detectives that if he didn’t throw the bag away, it would have been served to customers. Sharp also confessed he did it at least twice.
The alleged incidents happened on October 30-31, 2021, officials said. Investigators are now hoping to talk with anyone who has a receipt or a verified transaction from that Arby’s on those dates.
Neither Arby’s nor its franchisee were aware of Sharp’s “abhorrent actions,” investigators with the Digital Evidence Cybercrime Unit said. Arby’s told Nexstar’s KOIN that Sharp is no longer employed there.
Sharp faces four counts of possession of depictions of a minor engaged in sexually explicit conduct, four counts of dealing depictions of a minor engaged in sexually explicit conduct, and one count of second-degree assault.
More investigation is being done on Sharp’s digital devices, authorities said.
The Associated Press contributed to this report. | https://cw33.com/news/nexstar-media-wire/police-video-shows-arbys-manager-peeing-in-milkshake-mix/ | 2022-05-18T18:22:46Z |
PHOENIX (AP) — A judge has ruled that an Arizona prisoner convicted in the 1978 killing of a university student is mentally fit to be put to death next week, keeping on track what would be the first execution in the state in nearly eight years.
In a ruling signed shortly before midnight Tuesday and released on Wednesday, Pinal County Superior Court Judge Robert Olson rejected an argument from defense lawyers that Clarence Dixon’s psychological problems prevent him from rationally understanding why the state wants to end his life.
Dixon was convicted of murder in the killing of 21-year-old Arizona State University student Deana Bowdoin.
Lawyers for Dixon said they will appeal the ruling to the Arizona Supreme Court.
While Olson found that Dixon does suffer from schizophrenia, the judge said Dixon is rational and understands the proceedings in his case well enough to show he is competent.
Dixon’s lawyers argued Tuesday in a court in Florence, Arizona, that executing him would violate protections against executing people who are mentally unfit.
They said he erroneously believes he will be executed because police at Northern Arizona University wrongfully arrested him in a previous case — a 1985 attack on a 21-year-old student. His attorneys concede he was in fact lawfully arrested at the time by Flagstaff police.
Olson rejected that argument, saying that on one hand it “is an elegant theory that could make all of his legal problems go away; on the other hand, the chance of success with this argument was highly improbable (if not non-existent)…” but that Dixon stuck to it.
One of Dixon’s attorneys, Eric Zuckerman, said in a statement that the judge relied on testimony from an expert he called discredited and unqualified to arrive at the conclusion that Dixon was competent. He called that “deeply alarming.”
“We will ask the Arizona Supreme Court to apply the correct standard and ensure that Mr. Dixon is not executed while mentally incompetent in violation of the Eighth Amendment,” Zuckerman said.
Dixon was sentenced to life sentences in that case for sexual assault and other convictions. DNA samples taken while he was in prison later linked him to Bowdoin’s killing, which at that point had been unsolved.
Prosecutors, who tried unsuccessfully to get the Arizona Supreme Court to call off the mental competency hearing, said there was nothing about Dixon’s beliefs that prevented him from understanding the reason for the execution and pointed to court filings that Dixon himself made over the years.
Defense lawyers said Dixon has been diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia on multiple occasions, has regularly experienced hallucinations over the past 30 years and was found “not guilty by reason of insanity” in a 1977 assault case in which the verdict was delivered by then-Maricopa County Superior Court Judge Sandra Day O’Connor, nearly four years before her appointment to the U.S. Supreme Court. Bowdoin was killed two days after the verdict, according to court records.
Authorities have said Bowdoin, who was found dead in her apartment, had been raped, stabbed and strangled. Dixon had been charged with raping Bowdoin, but the charge was later dropped on statute-of-limitation grounds. He was convicted, though, in her death.
In addition to contesting his mental fitness, Dixon’s lawyers made a new attempt on Tuesday to stop his execution.
They filed a lawsuit asking a federal judge to hold off on putting Dixon to death until corrections officials show that the compounded pentobarbital to be used in the execution has been given an expiration date.
About a year ago, prosecutors took steps to seek the executions of Dixon and another death-row prisoner, but the litigation was put on hold by the state Supreme Court because of concerns over the expiration date of the drug to be used in the lethal injections.
In the new lawsuit, Dixon’s lawyers said corrections officials gave them heavily redacted records documenting the testing of the drug, but that they didn’t provide the assigned expiration date.
The Arizona Department of Corrections, Rehabilitation and Reentry declined to comment on the lawsuit.
On Tuesday, the Arizona Supreme Court also issued a warrant setting a June 8 execution date for another death-row prisoner, Frank Atwood, in the killing of 8-year-old Vicki Lynn Hoskinson in 1984. Authorities say Atwood kidnapped the girl, whose body was found in the desert northwest of Tucson.
The last time Arizona used the death penalty was in July 2014, when Joseph Wood was given 15 doses of a two-drug combination over two hours in an execution that his lawyers said was botched.
States including Arizona have struggled to buy execution drugs in recent years after U.S. and European pharmaceutical companies began blocking the use of their products in lethal injections.
Arizona has 113 prisoners on death row.
___
Associated Press writers Bob Christie and Paul Davenport contributed to this report.
___
Associated Press writer Paul Davenport in Phoenix contributed to this report. | https://cw33.com/health/ap-health/judge-arizona-prisoner-psychologically-fit-to-be-executed/ | 2022-05-05T04:59:20Z |
PHILADELPHIA, May 26, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Berger Montague is investigating securities fraud allegations on behalf of investors who purchased the securities CareDx, Inc. ("CareDx" or the "Company") (NASDAQ: NTRA) between February 24, 2021 and May 5, 2022 (the "Class Period").
If you purchased the securities of CareDx during the Class Period, would like to discuss Berger Montague's investigation, or have questions concerning your rights or interests, please contact attorneys Andrew Abramowitz at aabramowitz@bm.net or (215) 875-3015, or Michael Dell'Angelo at mdellangelo@bm.net or (215) 875-3080 or visit: https://investigations.bergermontague.com/caredx-inc/
Whistleblowers: Anyone with non-public information regarding CareDx is encouraged to confidentially assist Berger Montague's investigation or take advantage of the SEC Whistleblower program. Under this program, whistleblowers who provide original information may receive rewards totaling up to thirty percent (30%) of recoveries obtained by the SEC. For more information, contact us.
According to the complaint, CareDx misled investors about the fact that it had engaged in a variety of improper and illegal schemes to inflate revenues and demand, including pushing a surveillance protocol through inaccurate marketing materials, offering extravagant inducements or kickbacks to physicians and other providers, and improperly bundling expensive testing services with other blood tests as part of the RemoTraC service.
The truth began to emerge on October 28, 2021, when CareDx disclosed in its Q3 2021 10-Q that CareDx was the subject of at least three government investigations related to its "accounting and public reporting practices." In response to this news, CareDx's stock price fell 27%, from a closing price of $70.34 per share on October 28, 2021, to a closing price of $51.00 per share on October 29, 2021.
On April 15, 2022, CareDx's former Head of Community Nephrology filed a complaint in California Superior Court that provided extensive detail about CareDx's improper bundling of its most expensive testing services, including AlloSure, with other blood tests, which led to the government investigations. In response to this filing, CareDx's stock price fell an additional 8% the next trading day, from a closing price of $35.41 per share on April 14, 2022, to a closing price of $32.55 per share on April 18, 2022.
Finally, on May 5, 2022, CareDx issued a press release announcing financial results for Q1 2022, reporting a near 5% decline in the average sales price of the Company's testing services. In response to this news, CareDx's stock price fell 18.5%, from a closing price of $31.66 per share on May 5, 2022, to a closing price of $25.87 per share on May 6, 2022.
Berger Montague, with offices in Philadelphia, Minneapolis, Washington, D.C., and San Diego, has been a pioneer in securities class action litigation since its founding in 1970. Berger Montague has represented individual and institutional investors for over five decades and serves as lead counsel in courts throughout the United States.
Contacts
Andrew Abramowitz, Senior Counsel
Berger Montague
(215) 875-3015
aabramowitz@bm.net
Michael Dell'Angelo, Executive Shareholder
Berger Montague
(215) 875-3080
mdellangelo@bm.net
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SOURCE Berger Montague | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/05/26/caredx-inc-company-news-berger-montague-investigates-securities-fraud-allegations-against-caredx-inc-nasdaq-cdna-lead-plaintiff-deadline-is-july-22-2022/ | 2022-05-26T17:58:12Z |
I have been in pain nearly every day for 21 years. It's like a brick of hell at the crux of my neck and shoulders that throbs all day long, and it's been haunting me since college. I look back at old photos, and I see a girl who's hurting.
Living in New York City, I have seen many physical therapists, chiropractors and acupuncturists. But two funny Midwesterners I found on the internet have given me the most useful advice in two decades.
Bob Schrupp and Brad Heineck are physical therapists known simply as "Bob and Brad," and they post pain relief videos on YouTube to more than 4 million subscribers. They have hundreds of thousands of social media followers, but I got to meet them in person after they offered to film a few demos.
My co-producer and I drove an hour through Minnesota cornfields and wind farms to find their unmarked studio in the town of Winona.
Walking in, we found two chatty guys who were immediately endearing. Schrupp started posting videos 10 years ago when he ran his own practice and wanted to offer patients exercises to follow at home.
"I remember being very surprised because I had written a blog at one time, and it got zero reads," Schrupp said of his foray onto the Web. "And so, I put a video on YouTube, and within a day it had like 10 views, and I thought that was amazing!"
Heineck, who worked for Schrupp, joined in, and their friendship makes them standouts on a platform full of "pain experts." They can shoot a video in 10 minutes in one take without a script. Every video starts with an off-key, '80s-style jingle that claims, "Bob and Brad are the most famous physical therapists on the internet," after which Heineck quickly quantifies, "Only in our opinion of course."
They say their goal is to help ease suffering. In 2016, people in the US spent more money (an estimated $134.5 billion) on low back and neck pain than they did on 154 other conditions, including diabetes, hypertension and dementia, according to a study in the Journal of the American Medical Association.
"A lot of people don't have insurance or are in an area where they can't get to a doctor or a therapist," Heineck said. "And they may need just some tidbit of information that's going to lead them in the right direction."
The two are asked about lower back pain and sciatica most often, followed by shoulder and knee pain, but I appreciated the video that helps massage away hand strain for the weary texter. For our visit, they filmed a video on sleep positions for the nocturnally challenged and then got straight to my chronic upper back pain.
Over a decade ago, I was diagnosed with kyphosis, a hunching of the upper spine. Lest you think I'm an amateur, I have hundreds of dollars' worth of shoulder massagers, massage balls, freeze creams and heat wraps. I have my own transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) unit, and I have even sprung for a wrap that mimics someone massaging your shoulders. (It's not the same.)
The advice I wish I'd learned long ago
First, Schrupp and Heineck asked me to lean back as far as I could, and they quickly noticed the muscles along my upper spine didn't flex or budge -- they were cement poles. In the video above, they demonstrate how to use a rubbery sphere called a back pod to loosen those trigger points. I'd long been leaning against small, hard sports balls to do the same, but sustained pressure from a wider surface loosened tension without adding soreness. For me, soreness always led to strain the next day.
Then came another demo, along with advice that's helped me the most: "One of the things that we're famous for is that we don't want to have you do the exercise once a day," Schrupp said. "To think that you're going to make a big change by doing something once a day is unlikely. It's more likely you're going to make a change if you can do it like eight times a day or nine times a day and make it part of your habit."
Schrupp said this idea isn't original, and he's quick to point out how much he talks to other experts, turning these conversations into a podcast.
I'd first seen this tip in action when I watched Schrupp doing chin tucks in a car with a rolled-up sock behind his head. He was working on his posture throughout the day.
I'd undergone physical therapy for years but told myself I had to do all the exercises right when I woke up, which of course I'd often skip. But doing a few things here and there throughout the day is more feasible, Schrupp and Heineck said, and releases more tension.
Back from Minnesota
I realize the painfully bad posture I've built up for decades won't go away in a few months. But these moments of relief give me hope. Moving every so often reminds the body of what it's naturally supposed to do, all while bringing in blood flow and warming up muscles. I knew I was on to something when I heard CNN's Brianna Keilar, who lives with fibromyalgia, offer the same advice.
Visits to my physical therapist are still key, and Schrupp and Heineck agree. It took me a while to find a good therapist. Mine gave me exercises I'd never tried before and pointed out that I'd been doing previous ones with my shoulders too high for far too long. I'm not sure I could have gotten that insight from the internet.
But when I leave the therapy office, I have my Reddit channels, yoga routines and "Bob and Brad" at my fingertips.
"I think a lot of our followers, our subscribers, are people who are active, and they're looking for education," Heineck said. "And when you have control over your body as far as controlling the pain, that's very powerful."
The-CNN-Wire
™ & © 2022 Cable News Network, Inc., a WarnerMedia Company. All rights reserved. | https://www.albanyherald.com/features/health/heres-the-pain-relief-advice-ive-spent-21-years-looking-for/article_dedade98-eab2-5781-8f98-65ed5a2b52de.html | 2022-04-10T21:53:13Z |
SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic (AP) — The childhood friend accused of fatally shooting the Dominican Republic’s Minister of Environment and Natural Resources this week allegedly did so because he was denied environmental permits he was seeking on behalf of various companies, according to judicial documents obtained Wednesday.
One of the permits that slain former minister Orlando Jorge had denied had been submitted by his longtime friend and now suspect, Fausto Miguel de Jesús Cruz de la Mota, who served as intermediary between the companies and the ministry. That particular permit involved a request to export 5,000 tons (4,500 metric tons) of used batteries, according to the documents obtained by The Associated Press.
Those permits and others were found inside a briefcase the suspect was carrying when the minister, who is the son of a former president, was shot six times at his office on Monday, the documents state.
Authorities wrote that the suspect was bothered by that particular permit: “It had been denied, but they had resubmitted it.”
They also described Cruz as a “cold and calculating murderer” and are seeking one year of preventive prison as the investigation continues.
It was not immediately clear if Cruz had an attorney.
Shortly after Monday’s killing, police arrested Cruz at a church dozens of blocks away after telling a priest he committed a crime and handed over a gun to him.
Authorities also state in the documents that Cruz allegedly took advantage of his ties with Jorge to seek environmental permits given his support during the 2020 campaign for the minister’s Modern Revolutionary Party. Jorge, who was a founding member of that party, was appointed minister in August 2020.
“I campaigned, and they’re not helping me,” exclaimed Cruz when he arrived at the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources before the shooting on the morning of June 6, according to the documents.
“The evidence shows that the accused had been trying to obtain multiple permits but complained angrily that no one was helping him solve anything,” the Dominican Republic’s Department of Justice said in a statement.
It also accused Cruz of threatening the legal adviser of the ministry less than a month ago.
Authorities stated that after the shooting, they seized Cruz’s car and found a 9 mm Uzi with two 30-round magazines each and $2,000 in cash, among other things.
Cruz is the son of Maj. General Fausto Miguel Cruz, who served as commander of the Dominican Republic’s Air Force from 1988 to 1990, a spokeswoman told the AP.
He is also a shareholder of a construction company and an armory.
Meanwhile, Jorge, the slain minister, comes from a well-known political family. He is the son of former Dominican President Salvador Jorge Blanco and his sister is a vice minister in Abinader’s administration. Jorge’s son is a lawmaker for the Modern Revolutionary Party.
Jorge’s family held a two-day wake for him that drew multiple mourners, including David Ortiz, former Red Sox slugger and a Hall of Famer. He was quoted by newspaper Listín Diario as saying: “This is horrible. … Let’s stop all this violence.” | https://cw33.com/news/international/ap-international/documents-dominican-minister-slain-over-denied-permits/ | 2022-06-09T23:33:34Z |
Additions to executive team strengthen global leadership and position Company for strategic long-term growth
First-ever product launch of long-acting amubarvimab/romlusevimab combination therapy for COVID-19 in China advances Brii Bio from clinical development to commercial stage biotechnology company
On track to advance clinical programs in HBV, CNS, HIV and MDR/XDR, and deliver key data read-outs in 2022
Ample funds to support operations through 2025
Company to host conference call today at 8:30 PM HKT / 8:30 AM ET
DURHAM, N.C. and BEIJING, Aug. 23, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Brii Biosciences Limited ("Brii Bio," "we," or the "Company", stock code: 2137.HK) a multi-national company developing innovative therapies for diseases with significant unmet medical needs and large public health burdens, today announced a corporate update and reported its interim results for the six months ended June 30, 2022.
Zhi Hong, Ph.D., Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Brii Bio stated: "The first half of 2022 marked an important time for Brii Bio as we achieved a number of significant corporate, clinical development and regulatory milestones. We further built up our leadership team with recent additions of a Chief Business Officer, Chief Technology Officer, Chief People Officer, and CNS Disease Therapy Area Head. We believe that our strong global executives and talented team will drive the Company's long-term growth. Recently we commercially launched our COVID-19 combination therapy in China, which also ushered the Company into an exciting new phase of growth as a commercial-stage organization. Moving forward, we have set clear strategic priorities for the organization of our R&D teams; in China, we will further strengthen our leadership position in developing HBV functional curative therapies, while in the U.S., our team will focus on advancing our highly differentiated anti-depression programs. We will continue to invest in and accelerate our pipeline for China and global markets through internal discovery and strategic partnerships."
Brii Bio's pipeline spans all phases of clinical development. As of the date of this announcement, the Company has over 10 innovative product candidates undergoing clinical development. Brii Bio and its partners' current programs are designed to address HBV, COVID-19, HIV, MDR/XDR gram-negative and NTM infections, as well as PPD/MDD or other anxiety and depressive disorders.
2022 Interim and Recent Corporate Developments
- We recently expanded our diverse global executive team with the additions of Dr. Susannah Cantrell as Chief Business Officer, Dr. Eleanor (Ellee) de Groot as our Chief Technology Officer, and Dr. Aleksandar Skuban as our CNS Disease Therapy Area Head. Also, Ms. Karen D. Neuendorff was appointed as Chief People Officer early this year. Each of these accomplished industry executives boasts a strong track record of success leading international teams.
- In July, we announced our plan to exercise the option to acquire exclusive development and commercialization rights for VIR-3434 in Greater China (Mainland China, Hong Kong, the Macau Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China and Taiwan) as part of our broader collaboration with Vir Biotechnology, Inc. ("Vir", Nasdaq: VIR). VIR-3434 grows the Company's leading clinical pipeline of therapeutic candidates for hepatitis B virus (HBV) and expands its set of potential combination treatment options to explore as part of its effort to develop a functional cure for HBV.
- Brii Bio was added to the MSCI China Small Cap Index in May 2022. The MSCI China Small Cap Index is an equity index compiled by MSCI Inc., a leading provider of critical decision support tools and services for the global investment community. The index is designed to measure the performance of the China market's small-cap segment and is widely recognized by the international financial community as a benchmark for global institutional investors seeking to optimize their investment portfolios.
- We sponsored the 20/20 Mom Annual Forum, Maternal Mental Health Now, 35th Annual Postpartum Support International Conference and the 2022 Black Maternal & Mental Health Summit. Our participation in these events help the Company foster relationships with patients, their caregivers, and the disease-specific nonprofit groups that support them. We believe this is an important step to ensure patient voices are understood across every function, from R&D to commercialization.
2022 Interim Pipeline Highlights and Upcoming Data Readouts
Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) Functional Cure Program (China team core project)
We are progressing multiple combination studies for the treatment of HBV led by our team in China and our partner Vir Biotechnology ("Vir," Nasdaq: VIR).
BRII-179 (VBI-2601) and BRII-835 (VIR-2218) (therapeutic vaccine and siRNA) Combination
- In February 2022, we completed the enrollment of 90 patients from the Asia-Pacific region in our Phase 2 multi-regional clinical trial (MRCT) combination study of BRII-179 (VBI-2601)/BRII-835 (VIR-2218).
- Patients are expected to complete treatment in the Phase 2 MRCT combination therapy study in the third quarter of 2022, with interim topline data expected by the end of 2022.
- If positive results are achieved in the combination study, we plan to initiate a pre- Investigational New Drug ("pre-IND") discussion with China's Center for Drug Evaluation ("CDE") in 2023 for a pivotal study with our combination BRII-179 (VBI-2601)/BRII-835 (VIR-2218) therapy.
BRII-179 (VBI-2601) and PEG-IFN-α Combination
- A two-part Phase 2a/2b combination study with BRII-179 (VBI-2601) in HBV patients receiving pegylated interferon alfa ("PEG-IFN-α") and nucleotide/nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTI) treatment is currently recruiting patients in China.
- Patient enrollment for part one of the Phase 2 study (Phase 2a with approximately 120 patients) is expected to be complete in the fourth quarter of 2022 with interim topline results expected in the first half of 2023.
BRII-835 (VIR-2218)
- In March 2022, we presented findings from the Phase 2 China study on the safety and antiviral activity of BRII-835 (VIR-2218) administered on top of nucleos(t)ide analog therapy at the 2022 Asian Pacific Association for the Study of the Liver (APASL) conference. The dose-dependent reduction in serum HBsAg observed in both HBeAg- and HBeAg+ Chinese chronic HBV patients in this trial after two doses of BRII-835 (VIR-2218) is consistent with previous findings demonstrated in other racial/ethnic groups.
- Our partner, Vir Biotechnology presented data at the International Liver Congress in June 2022, showing longer treatment duration of monthly BRII-835 (VIR-2218) results in deeper and more sustained reductions in hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) in participants with chronic hepatitis B infection.
- Additional data from the Phase 2 study of BRII-835 (VIR-2218) in combination with PEG-IFN-α led by Vir is expected in 2022.
BRII-877 (VIR-3434) (Study conducted by Vir)
- Data from a Phase 1 monotherapy study led by Vir were presented at the International Liver Congress in June 2022 demonstrating the dose-dependent durability of HBsAg reductions following administration of a single dose of BRII-877 (VIR-3434).
- In virally suppressed participants with HBsAg of less than 3,000 IU/mL, a single 6 mg to 75 mg dose of BRII-877 (VIR-3434) resulted in rapid HBsAg reductions of greater than 1 log10 IU/mL in most participants. Single doses of BRII-877 (VIR-3434) showed no clinically significant safety signals; all adverse events (AEs) were Grade 1 or 2. These data support the potential for BRII-877 (VIR-3434) to provide a meaningful role in the functional cure of chronic HBV infection.
- In July 2022, we announced that the Company exercised its option to in-license BRII-877 (VIR-3434) for exclusive development and commercialization rights in Greater China as part of its broader collaboration with Vir.
- We plan to request a pre-IND meeting with China's CDE for a Phase 1 study of BRII-877 (VIR-3434) by the end of 2022.
BRII-835 (VIR-2218) and BRII-877 (VIR-3434) (siRNA and antibody combination conducted by Vir)
- Our partner, Vir, shared encouraging data from Part A of its Phase 2 MARCH study in April 2022, which suggests that BRII-835 (VIR-2218) and BRII-877 (VIR-3434) are additive in reducing HBsAg, with no drug-related safety signals reported to date.
- Additional data from the first cohort (Part A) of the Phase 2 MARCH study evaluating safety, pharmacokinetics and HBsAg suppression of BRII-835 (VIR-2218) and BRII-877 (VIR-3434) combination is expected later this year.
- Part B of the Phase 2 MARCH trial initiated in the second quarter of 2022 is to evaluate additional cohorts to determine dose, length of treatment, and evaluate triple cocktails with PEG-IFN-α, when BRII-877 (VIR-3434) is given every 4 weeks.
COVID-19 Program (Internally discovered. China team core project)
- We completed a Phase 2 study of amubarvimab/romlusevimab combination therapy (formerly BRII-196 and BRII-198 combination therapy) led by Prof. Nanshan Zhong as the lead principal investigator. Data demonstrated that the combination therapy is generally safe and well-tolerated in both severe and non-severe Chinese patients with COVID-19. Favorable efficacy profiles were observed, consistent with the results observed in the ACTIV-2 study.
- As COVID-19 continues to evolve, we completed a neutralization activity evaluation on Omicron variants using live virus and pseudo Virus-Like Particles (VLPs) expressing the full-length spike protein of Omicron subvariants and available authentic Omicron viruses. The testing data from multiple independent laboratories demonstrate that the Company's long-acting amubarvimab/romlusevimab combination retains neutralizing activity against all previous variants of concern (VOC) and Omicron subvariants, including the following commonly identified ones, B.1.1.7 (Alpha), B.1.351 (Beta), P.1 (Gamma), B.1.429 (Epsilon), B.1.617.2 (Delta), AY.4.2 (Delta Plus), C.37 (Lambda), B.1.621 (Mu), B.1.1.529 (Omicron), as well as Omicron subvariants BA.1.1, BA.2 , BA.2.12.1 and BA.4/5.
- The long-acting amubarvimab/romlusevimab combination therapy was added to the COVID-19 Diagnosis and Treatment Guidelines (9th Pilot Edition) in March 2022 by the National Health Commission of China.
- The long-acting amubarvimab/romlusevimab combination therapy was commercially launched in China in July 2022 following the completion of the GMP compliance inspections.
- We announced strategic partnerships with Sinopharm and CR Pharma in March and July 2022, respectively, to advance the commercialization of our long-acting COVID-19 neutralization antibody therapy in China.
- The U.S. FDA is currently reviewing Brii Bio's Emergency Use Authorization application for the amubarvimab/romlusevimab combination.
- A randomized, double-blind and placebo-controlled Phase 2 study is under planning by the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, aiming at evaluating the level of enhanced SARS-CoV-2 specific immunity after single infusion of monoclonal neutralizing antibody (mAb) therapy, the amubarvimab/romlusevimab combination in immunocompromised population.
Central Nervous System Disease Program (Internally discovered. U.S. team core project)
BRII-296
- We are investigating the use of BRII-296 in patients with severe postpartum depression (PPD) or those at high risk of developing PPD. As there is currently no approved therapy to prevent PPD, we believe BRII-296 has the potential to shift the paradigm of PPD treatment and prevention.
- Our Phase 1 SAD study for BRII-296 is ongoing and we expect to complete enrollment in the third quarter of 2022. The initial safety, tolerability and PK data will be shared at a scientific conference in the second half of this year.
- We have requested a Type C meeting with FDA to align with our clinical development plan for both PPD treatment and prevention. We aim to start the PPD treatment study before the end of 2022.
BRII-297
- We are conducting early IND-enabling studies with BRII-297 targeting various anxiety and depressive disorders.
- We aim to initiate the Phase 1 study in the fourth quarter of 2022.
HIV Program (Internally discovered. U.S. team core project)
BRII-778
- We completed the final clinical study report for our BRII-778 Phase 1 single ascending dose/multiple ascending dose trial (SAD/MAD) in June 2022.
- Safety, tolerability and pharmacokinetic (PK) data from this study will be presented at the IDWeek Conference in October 2022.
BRII-732
- We completed our Phase 1 SAD/MAD study of BRII-732 in May 2022 with plans to present safety, tolerability, and PK data at the IDWeek Conference in October 2022.
- We have received an initial response from the U.S. FDA outlining the requirements for release of clinical hold and further clarification is ongoing. We are working closely with the Agency to align on our understanding of the safety signal identified in the islatravir-related studies. Our aim is to lift the clinical hold as soon as we can in 2022 and proceed with the development of our once-weekly oral combination of BRII-732 and BRII-778.
MDR/XDR Gram-negative Infections Program (China team core project)
We are developing our MDR/XDR therapies in collaboration with our partner Qpex as part of their global development plan. We retain responsibility for the development and regulatory activities in Greater China, while Qpex is responsible for all development and regulatory activities outside Greater China.
BRII-636 (OMNIvance®)
- In early 2022, our partner, Qpex, announced that BRII-636 (INN: xeruborbactam) in combination with a non-disclosed beta-lactam intravenous antibiotic received Qualified Infectious Disease Product (QIDP) designation by the U.S. FDA.
- Qpex has completed enrollment in a first-in-human Phase 1 study and a drug-drug interaction study. The results are expected to be shared in the fourth quarter of 2022 at a scientific conference.
- We will submit an IND application to China's NMPA in due course.
BRII-672 (ORAvance™)
- Qpex announced in early 2022 that BRII-672 in combination with a non-disclosed oral beta-lactam antibiotic received QIDP designation by the U.S. FDA, and its Phase 1 study is progressing and on track to be completed.
- We will submit an IND application to China's NMPA in due course.
BRII-693 (QPX-9003)
- Qpex announced in early 2022 that BRII-693 received QIDP designation by the U.S. FDA.
- Enrollment in the first-in-human Phase 1 clinical study has been completed, including a cohort of Chinese subjects. Qpex expects to share topline data in the fourth quarter of 2022.
- We will submit an IND application with China's NMPA in due course.
MDR/XDR Mycobacterium Tuberculosis (TB) and Non-tuberculosis Mycobacteria (NTM) Program (China team core project)
Our partner, AN2, is developing epetraborole as a once-daily, orally administered treatment for patients with chronic non-tuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) lung disease in the U.S., with an initial focus on treatment-refractory Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) lung disease.
BRII-658 (epetraborole)
- In June 2022, AN2 initiated patient screening for the pivotal Phase 2/3 clinical trial for treatment-refractory MAC lung disease.
- AN2 has completed the enrollment for a Phase 1 bridging study in Japan, and topline data is pending.
2022 Interim Financial Results
- Other Income was RMB38.2 million for the six months ended June 30, 2022, representing a decrease of RMB8.1 million, or 17.4%, compared with RMB46.3 million for the six months ended June 20, 2021. The decrease was mainly due to the decreased income recognized from confirmed PRC government grants of RMB17.8 million. The decrease was partially offset by the increase in bank interest income of RMB9.7 million attributable to the increased bank and cash balances after our initial public offering.
- Research and development expenses were RMB258.5 million for the six months ended June 30, 2022, representing an increase of RMB100.9 million, or 64.0%, compared with RMB157.6 million for the six months ended June 30, 2021. The increase was primarily due to the increase in third party contracting fees, as well as employee costs, for our continuous development in clinical trials.
- Administrative expenses were RMB95.5 million for the six months ended June 30, 2022, representing an increase of RMB27.5 million, or 40.4%, compared with RMB68.0 million for the six months ended June 30, 2021. The increase was primarily attributable to the increase in employee headcount.
- We established a streamlined commercial team to better support the launch and distribution of our amubarvimab/romlusevimab combination therapy. As a result, we started to incur selling and marketing expenses, which primarily comprise employee-related costs and prelaunch activity expenses associated with product commercialization.
- Total comprehensive expense for the six months ended June 30, 2022 was RMB217.7 million, representing a decrease of RMB2,703.8 million, or 92.5%, compared with RMB2,921.5 million for the six months ended June 30, 2021. The decrease was primarily due to the decrease in fair value loss on financial liabilities at FVTPL.
Conference Call Information
A live conference call will be hosted on August 24, 2022, at 8:30 PM Hong Kong time (August 24, 2022, at 8:30 AM U.S. Eastern Time). Participants must register in advance of the conference call. Registration link please click here.
All participants shall use the link provided above to complete the online registration process in advance of the conference call. Upon registering, each participant will receive an email with important details for this call including the call date, time and access link. This link is to be kept confidential and not shared with other participants. Additionally, a replay of the conference call will be available after the call and can be accessed by visiting the Company's website at www.briibio.com at Investor Relations part.
About Our Programs
HBV (Licensed from VBI Vaccines Inc. (VBI) and Vir Biotechnology, Inc. (Vir). China team core project)
To treat HBV, we are currently developing BRII-179 (VBI-2601), an HBV-specific B cell and T cell immunotherapeutic vaccine candidate, BRII-835 (VIR-2218), an investigational HBV-targeting siRNA, which has the potential to stimulate an effective immune response and has shown direct antiviral activity against HBV, and the newly in-licensed BRII-877 (VIR-3434), an investigational subcutaneously administered HBV-neutralizing monoclonal antibody. We hold exclusive rights in Greater China to develop and commercialize BRII-179 (VBI-2601), BRII-835 (VIR-2218) and BRII-877 (VIR-3434).
BRII-179 (VBI-2601) is a novel recombinant protein-based HBV immunotherapeutic candidate that builds upon the 3-antigen conformation of VBI's prophylactic HBV vaccine candidate, with a Th-1 enhancing adjuvant to induce both B-cell and T-cell immune responses.
BRII-835 (VIR-2218) is an investigational subcutaneously administered HBV-targeting siRNA that has the potential to stimulate an effective immune response and have direct antiviral activity against HBV. It is the first siRNA in the clinic to include Enhanced Stabilization Chemistry Plus technology to enhance stability and minimize off-target activity, which potentially can result in an increased therapeutic index.
BRII-877 (VIR-3434) is an investigational subcutaneously administered HBV-neutralizing monoclonal antibody designed to block entry of all 10 genotypes of HBV into hepatocytes and also to reduce the level of virions and subviral particles in the blood. BRII-877 (VIR-3434), which incorporates Xencor's Xtend™ and other Fc technologies, has been engineered to potentially function as a T cell vaccine against HBV in infected patients, as well as to have an extended half-life.
COVID-19 (Discovered in collaboration with Tsinghua University and Third People's Hospital of Shenzhen through our subsidiary, TSB Therapeutics Ltd (Beijing) Co. Limited. China team core project)
Amubarvimab and romlusevimab are non-competing SARS-CoV-2 monoclonal neutralizing antibodies derived from convalesced COVID-19 patients. They have been specifically engineered to reduce the risk of antibody-dependent enhancement and prolong the plasma half-lives for potentially more durable treatment effect.
Approved by the China's NMPA in December 2021, our long-acting amubarvimab/romlusevimab cocktail therapy is approved to be administered by intravenous infusion in two sequential doses for the treatment in adults and pediatric patients (age 12-17 weighing at least 40 kg) of mild- and normal-type COVID-19 at high risk for progression to severe disease, including hospitalization or death. The indication of pediatric patients (age 12-17 weighing at least 40 kg) is under a conditional approval. In March 2022, the National Health Commission of China included the amubarvimab/romlusevimab combination in its COVID-19 Diagnosis and Treatment Guidelines (9th Edition) for the treatment of COVID-19. The live virus testing data as well as pseudovirus testing data from multiple independent labs have demonstrated that the long-acting amubarvimab/romlusevimab combination retains activity against major SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern, including the following commonly identified variants, B.1.1.7 (Alpha), B.1.351 (Beta), P.1 (Gamma), B.1.429 (Epsilon), B.1.617.2 (Delta), AY.4.2 (Delta Plus), C.37 (Lambda), B.1.621 (Mu), B.1.1.529 (Omicron), as well as Omicron subvariants BA.1.1, BA.2 , BA.2.12.1 and BA.4/5.
Postpartum Depression (PPD)/Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)/Other depressive disorders (Internally discovered. U.S team core project)
We are developing BRII-296 and BRII-297 to address the challenges associated with current treatments for PPD, MDD, and other anxiety or depressive disorders. We are doing this by leveraging insight gained from, and applied drug formulation know-how utilized in developing long-acting therapies, where drug administration convenience and patient compliance are critical to potential treatment success.
BRII-296 is our novel and single treatment option for the treatment and prevention of PPD. It acts as a gamma-aminobutyric acid A (GABAa) receptor positive allosteric modulator. BRII-296 is in clinical Phase 1 study.
BRII-297 is a new chemical entity discovered internally. BRII-297 is under development for treatment of various anxiety and depression disorders.
HIV (Internally discovered. U.S team core project)
We are developing BRII-778 and BRII-732 as a once-weekly single-tablet combination therapy that will offer a more discreet, convenient, and non-invasive maintenance therapy for HIV patients.
BRII-778 is an extended-release formulation of an FDA-approved NNRTI, Edurant (rilpivirine hydrochloride). Edurant, an instant-release formulation of rilpivirine, has exhibited antiviral activity against a broad panel of HIV's most common strains. BRII-778, like all NNRTIs, binds to the NNRTI binding site, a flexible allosteric pocket located at a site adjacent to the DNA polymerizing processing site, resulting in conformational changes, and altered function of reverse transcriptase.
BRII-732 is a new chemical entity (NCE) that is metabolized upon oral administration into EFdA or islatravir. EFdA functions not only as a potent chain-terminator like other NRTIs, but also as a potent HIV reverse transcriptase translocation inhibitor (NRTTI), with high binding affinity to the active site of RT, that inhibits HIV reverse transcriptase by blocking translocation of nascently synthesized strand(s) for the next nucleotide incorporation.
Multidrug- and Extensively Drug-Resistant (MDR/XDR) Gram-negative Infections (licensed from Qpex Biopharma, Inc. (Qpex). China team core project)
We are developing our MDR/XDR therapies in collaboration with our partner Qpex as part of their global development plan. We retain responsibility for the development and regulatory activities in Greater China, while Qpex is responsible for all development and regulatory activities outside Greater China. Qpex is progressing BRII-636, BRII-672, and BRII-693 in parallel with a goal of moving each to global Phase 3 studies when we are expected to join with China as part of the global studies. BRII-636, BRII-672, and BRII-693 candidates all obtained QIDP designation from the U.S. FDA, which may receive incentives in the future. We are collaborating with Qpex to progress OMNIvance® (BRII-636, a broad spectrum BLI, in combination with an IV β-lactam antibiotic), ORAvanceTM (BRII-672, a broad spectrum oral BLI in combination with an oral β -lactam antibiotic)and BRII-693 (a novel synthetic IV lipopeptide antibiotic) for the treatment of bacterial infections, for which there are critical needs for new antibiotics treatments.
BRII-636 (BLI of OMNIvance®) is a novel cyclic boronic acid derived broad-spectrum inhibitor designed to cover all major SBLs and MBLs to restore the bacterial activity of multiple carbapenems and cephalosporins. It is administered by the IV route.
BRII-672 (BLI of ORAvanceTM) is a prodrug of BRII-636 that can be administered orally to deliver BRII-636 into the bloodstream. These agents were discovered by our partner Qpex as part of their expertise in BLIs, using the boron atom as a part of its pharmacophore.
BRII-693 (QPX-9003) is a novel synthetic lipopeptide, which has emerged as a development candidate based on a combination of increased in vitro and in vivo potency, and an improved safety profile compared to currently available polymyxins. BRII-693 has the potential to represent a significant advancement in the polymyxin class of hospital (IV) antibiotics.
MDR/XDR Mycobacterium Tuberculosis (TB) and Nontuberculous Mycobacteria (NTM) Program (licensed from AN2 Therapeutics, Inc. (AN2). China team core project)
We are developing epetraborole (BRII-658) in MDR/XDR TB and NTM with AN2. Epetraborole (BRII-658) is a novel antibiotic that has shown potent and broad-spectrum activity against mycobacteria and other bacterial pathogens in Phase 1b trials. AN2 is conducting a pivotal Phase 2/3 clinical trials of epetraborole (BRII-658) for the treatment of treatment-refractory Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) lung disease. We hold a license to develop, manufacture, and commercialize epetraborole (BRII-658) in Greater China.
BRII-658 (epetraborole) is an antibiotic with a novel mechanism of action. It is a boron-containing, orally available, small molecule inhibitor of mycobacterial leucyl-tRNA synthetase, or LeuRS, an enzyme that inhibits protein synthesis.
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This press release contains references to third-party information. Such information is not deemed to be incorporated by reference in this press release. Brii Bio disclaims responsibility for such third-party information.
About Brii Bio
Brii Biosciences Limited ("Brii Bio", stock code: 2137.HK) is a biotechnology company based in China and the United States committed to advancing therapies for significant infectious diseases, such as hepatitis B, COVID-19, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, multi-drug resistant (MDR) or extensive drug resistant (XDR) gram-negative infections, and other illnesses, such as central nervous system (CNS) diseases, which have significant public health burdens in China and worldwide. For more information, visit www.briibio.com.
Forward Looking Statement
The information communicated in this press release contains certain statements that are or may be forward looking. These statements typically contain words such as "will," "expects," "believes," "plans" and "anticipates," and words of similar import. By their nature, forward looking statements involve risk and uncertainty because they relate to events and depend on circumstances that will occur in the future. There may be additional material risks that are currently not considered to be material or of which the Company are unaware. These forward-looking statements are not a guarantee of future performance. Against the background of these uncertainties, readers should not rely on these forward-looking statements. The Company assumes no responsibility to update forward-looking statements or to adapt them to future events or developments.
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SOURCE Brii Biosciences Limited | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/08/23/brii-biosciences-provides-corporate-update-reports-2022-interim-results/ | 2022-08-24T00:20:52Z |
Wemade reveals the Relic System and Dragonworld's Rift for 'MIR4'
SEOUL, South Korea, July 11, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Wemade has unveiled the Relic System for its widely acclaimed MMORPG 'MIR4'.
The Relic System, which consists of a total of 10 stages, increases players' unique stats according to the enhancement and growth level of the Relic. Each Relic has its own unique effect such as 'attack enhancement' and 'HP enhancement', and players can enhance Relics by collecting appropriate materials. Once all stats for the corresponding level are successfully enhanced, players can keep leveling up the Relic to become even more powerful.
The update also introduced Dragonworld's Rift, a new battle content that can be played in every labyrinth throughout the MIR continent. After fulfilling all requirements by slaying a certain number of monsters, players can hunt new monsters that are spawned in designated areas within the labyrinth. When all the monsters that creep through the rift are defeated, unique and boss monsters appear for fierce battles. Defeating rare boss monsters enables players to earn treasure chests that contain rich rewards such as Epic Blue Dragon Statue, Epic Mystic Enhancement Stone, and Epic Darkened Enhancement Stone.
With the newly added Brag function, players can interact with each other by bragging and spectating XDRACO Collectibles. This function is only available in the village, and spectators can tap the Admire button to receive buff effect, while players that brag can earn in-game resources.
For more information on the update, please visit MIR4 Global.
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SOURCE Wemade | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/07/12/wemade-introduces-relic-system-mir4/ | 2022-07-12T01:16:49Z |
1955 warrant in Emmett Till case found, family seeks arrest
JACKSON, Miss. (AP) — A team searching the basement of a Mississippi courthouse for evidence about the lynching of Black teenager Emmett Till has found the unserved warrant charging a white woman in his 1955 kidnapping, and relatives of the victim who initiated the hunt want authorities to finally arrest her nearly 70 years later.
A warrant for the arrest of Carolyn Bryant Donham — identified as “Mrs. Roy Bryant” on the document — was discovered last week inside a file folder that had been placed in a box, Leflore County Circuit Clerk Elmus Stockstill told The Associated Press on Wednesday.
Documents are kept inside boxes by decade, he said, but there was nothing else to indicate where the warrant, dated Aug. 29, 1955, might have been.
“They narrowed it down between the ‘50s and ‘60s and got lucky,” said Stockstill, who certified the warrant as genuine.
The search was started by the Emmett Till Legacy Foundation and included two members of Till’s family: Cousin Deborah Watts, head of the Foundation; and her daughter, Teri Watts. They want authorities to use the warrant to arrest Donham, who at the time of the slaying was married to one of two white men tried and acquitted just weeks after Till was abducted from a relative’s home, killed and dumped into a river.
“Serve it and charge her,” Teri Watts told the AP in an interview.
Donham set off the case in August 1955 by accusing the 14-year-old Till of making improper advances at a family store in Money, Mississippi. A cousin of Till who was there has said Till whistled at the woman, which flew in the face of Mississippi’s racist social codes of the era.
Evidence indicates a woman, possibly Donham, identified Till to the men who later killed him. The arrest warrant against Donham was publicized at the time, but the Leflore County sheriff told reporters he did not want to “bother” the woman since she had two young children to care for.
Now in her 80s and most recently living in North Carolina, Donham has not commented publicly on calls for her prosecution. But Teri Watts said the Till family believes the warrant accusing Donham of kidnapping amounts to new evidence.
“This is what the state of Mississippi needs to go ahead,” she said.
District Attorney Dewayne Richardson, whose office would prosecute a case, declined comment on the warrant but cited a December report about the Till case from the Justice Department, which said no prosecution was possible.
Contacted by the AP on Wednesday, Leflore County Sheriff Ricky Banks said: “This is the first time I’ve known about a warrant.”
Banks, who was 7 years old when Till was killed, said “nothing was said about a warrant” when a former district attorney investigated the case five or six years ago.
“I will see if I can get a copy of the warrant and get with the DA and get their opinion on it,” Banks said. If the warrant can still be served, Banks said, he would have to talk to law enforcement officers in the state where Donham resides.
Arrest warrants can “go stale” due to the passage of time and changing circumstances, and one from 1955 almost certainly would not pass muster before a court, even if a sheriff agreed to serve it, said Ronald J. Rychlak, a law professor at the University of Mississippi.
But combined with any new evidence, the original arrest warrant “absolutely” could be an important stepping stone toward establishing probable cause to initiate a new prosecution, he said.
“If you went in front of a judge you could say, ‘Once upon a time a judge determined there was probable cause, and much more information is available today,’” Rychlak said.
Till, who was from Chicago, was visiting relatives in Mississippi when he entered the store where Donham, then 21, was working on Aug. 24, 1955. A Till relative who was there at the time, Wheeler Parker, told AP that Till whistled at the woman. Donham testified in court that Till also grabbed her and made a lewd comment.
Two nights later, Donham’s then-husband, Roy Bryant, and his half-brother, J.W. Milam, showed up armed at the rural Leflore County home of Till’s great-uncle, Mose Wright, looking for the youth. Till’s brutalized body, weighted down by a fan, was pulled from a river days later in another county. His mother’s decision to open the casket so mourners in Chicago could see what had happened helped galvanize the building civil rights movement of the time.
Bryant and Milam were acquitted of murder but later admitted the killing in a magazine interview. While both men were named in the same warrant that accused Donham of kidnapping, authorities did not pursue the case following their acquittal.
Wright testified during the murder trial that a person with a voice “lighter” than a man’s identified Till from inside a pickup truck and the abductors took him away from the family home. Other evidence in FBI files indicates that earlier that same night, Donham told her husband that at least two other Black men were not the right person.
___
Reeves reported from Newnan, Georgia.
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. | https://www.wibw.com/2022/06/29/1955-warrant-emmett-till-case-found-family-seeks-arrest/ | 2022-06-29T21:12:10Z |
- Advances the vision of being the most nimble and innovative ag supply chain company in North America
- Aligns the company's portfolio around its core verticals of grain and fertilizer
- Enables further debt reduction, increases financial flexibility for investment in future strategic growth opportunities
MAUMEE, Ohio, July 8, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Andersons, Inc. (Nasdaq: ANDE) announced that it has completed the sale of its railcar repair business to Cathcart Rail.
"The sale of our railcar repair business to Cathcart Rail finalizes our exit from the rail segment as we announced in August of last year," said Pat Bowe, President and CEO of The Andersons. "Our strategic decision to exit our rail segment allows us to focus on and invest in our core agricultural verticals of grain and fertilizer."
"The Andersons railcar repair network aligns perfectly with Cathcart Rail's strategic goal of offering a broad array of rail services across a national footprint, and we are excited to welcome The Andersons employees to the Cathcart family," said Casey Cathcart, Chairman & Chief Executive Officer of Cathcart Rail. "With the addition of The Andersons railcar repair network, Cathcart Rail's nearly 1,000 employees across 110+ locations make it the leading railcar services company in the country."
"Our railcar repair employees are among the most skilled and experienced in the industry, and they have been critical to our success," commented Joe McNeely, President, The Andersons Nutrient and Industrial business. "We thank them for their contributions and commitment to The Andersons and our customers throughout the sale process. We are excited for them and the growth opportunities that Cathcart Rail will provide them."
Founded in 1947 in Maumee, Ohio, The Andersons, Inc. is a diversified company rooted in agriculture that conducts business in the commodity merchandising, renewables, and plant nutrient sectors. Guided by its Statement of Principles, The Andersons is committed to providing extraordinary service to its customers, helping its employees improve, supporting its communities, and increasing the value of the company. For more information, please visit www.andersonsinc.com.
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SOURCE The Andersons, Inc. | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/07/08/andersons-inc-completes-sale-its-railcar-repair-business-cathcart-rail/ | 2022-07-08T19:24:10Z |
NEW BRITAIN, Conn., April 25, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Stanley Black & Decker (NYSE: SWK) invites investors and the general public to listen to a webcast of a presentation by Jim Loree, CEO, at the 2022 Wells Fargo Industrials Conference on Wednesday, May 4, 2022 at 11:20 AM ET. The live webcast will be available in the "Investors" section of the company's website at www.stanleyblackanddecker.com. A replay of the webcast will be provided on the website and will be available for 30 days.
Headquartered in the USA, Stanley Black & Decker (NYSE: SWK) is the world's largest tool company operating nearly 50 manufacturing facilities across America and more than 100 worldwide. Guided by its purpose – for those who make the world – the company's more than 60,000 diverse and high-performing employees produce innovative, award-winning power tools, hand tools, storage, digital tool solutions, lifestyle products, outdoor products, engineered fasteners and other industrial equipment to support the world's makers, creators, tradespeople and builders. The company's iconic brands include DEWALT, BLACK+DECKER, CRAFTSMAN, STANLEY, Cub Cadet, Hustler and Troy-Bilt. Recognized for its leadership in environmental, social and governance (ESG), Stanley Black & Decker strives to be a force for good in support of its communities, employees, customers and other stakeholders. To learn more visit: www.stanleyblackanddecker.com.
Stanley Black & Decker Investor Contacts
Dennis Lange
Vice President, Investor Relations
(860) 827-3833
dennis.lange@sbdinc.com
Cort Kaufman
Senior Director, Investor Relations
(860) 515-2741
cort.kaufman@sbdinc.com
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SOURCE Stanley Black & Decker | https://www.wibw.com/prnewswire/2022/04/25/stanley-black-amp-decker-present-2022-wells-fargo-industrials-conference/ | 2022-04-25T15:11:51Z |
Pure chickpea protein demonstrates high solubility, great flavor and performance in non-dairy creamers
REHOVOT, Israel, July 5, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- ChickP, Ltd., a foodTech startup, and pioneer in plant-based protein innovation, introduces its protein isolates customized for trendy dairy-alternative barista-style coffee drinks. The company developed an advanced prototype of a chickpea-based milk analog. This plant-based creamer for coffee demonstrates the versatility of ChickP's pure protein, following its sterling performance as an egg replacer for vegan mayonnaise.
This solution has been designed to serve food formulators working in the alternative dairy space to create compelling milk analogs specifically for creamy beverages such as coffee.
Accurately recreating flavor, texture, and nutritional values in dairy milk analogs with plant-based alternatives creates significant challenges. Many plant proteins on the market have bitter or off flavors, low protein content, and grainy or chalky textures. Even with the use of multiple masking agents, added sugar, or flavor modifiers, the results lack the appearance and organoleptic characteristics of real, creamy milk. Moreover, the long list of ingredients on the label can be negative for consumers.
"Plant-based barista drinks set new challenges," explains Liat Lachish Levy, CEO of ChickP. "Consumers want a holistic, better-for-you, yet full flavor experience. Our technologists took full advantage of our new state-of-the-art application lab to overcome organoleptic and technical challenges in creating creamy, dairy-free 'milk' for the perfect cappuccino."
High Foaming, Smooth Texture
Chickpeas are a rich source of high-quality protein. ChickP's IP-protected technology extracts this pure protein while removing bitterness and many non-nutritional factors. The resulting ingredient has a neutral flavor, mitigating the need for sugar or flavor additives in the final product, and enabling beverage formulators to significantly shorten ingredients list to deliver an all-natural product. Moreover, it demonstrates excellent foaming capabilities due to its high solubility and smooth texture. The model plant-based barista milk contains 3% protein. Existing vegetable-origin barista products typically contain less than 1% protein.
"Consumers are looking for plant-based milk, but they also demand great taste and texture," notes Maor Dahan, application manager of ChickP. "Our chickpea S930 and G910 isolate are the most refined form of protein with the advantage of matching color, flavor, and functional properties to food and beverage applications. This protein has great solubility, exhibiting excellent water dispersion properties across a wide range of pH. It has a low viscosity and an optimized flavor." Chickpea is not listed as an allergen and is not genetically modified.
"We currently are developing over twenty plant-based applications with leading food and beverage companies with our pure ChickP protein," reports Lachish Levy. "Our customers turned to us to solve major challenges of plant-based products and we were able to provide comprehensive solutions in terms of flavor, complete nutrition profile, and functionality. Together with our customers and partners, we are unlocking the potential of our ChickP protein to offer the best solutions across multiple applications. Our customers confirm that ChickP isolate offers the best dairy-like solution on the market today."
Holistic creamy milk replacer
"Our ChickP protein ticks all the boxes," says Lachish Levy. "It's packed with highly nutritious complete protein containing all nine essential amino acids. But more than that, it has a rich texture, and provides smooth, stable full foaming, with a white color, perfect for showcasing the most artful barista's skills.
According to The Good Food Institute[1], dairy-free milk represents 35% of plant-based food sales growth in the US market, at $2.5B in annual sales. Dollar sales of plant-based milk grew 20% in the past year, and 27% over the past two years. Plant-based milk is a major entry point for households trying products across plant-based categories. With some three-quarters of the world's population sensitive or intolerant to lactose, ChickP dairy-free milk allows them, as well as consumers concerned about animal welfare, to enjoy a cappuccino or latte with the perfect silky microfoam.
Small but mighty, power your day with ChickP protein. Be sure to visit us at the IFT First Expo at the Startup Pavilion, booth #S4286-M and sample our delicious ChickP applications such as whey protein-like powder and sport nutrition bars.
About ChickP
ChickP was founded in 2016 by Ram Reifen, MD, a pediatric gastroenterologist and professor of human nutrition who was driven by a desire to create a protein that can help feed the world while benefiting consumers and food manufacturers. The company is the owner of a breakthrough patented technology for production of chickpea protein (90%), developed at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem ChickP helps its customers to develop nutritional, plant-based products with speed-to-market and reliability. The start-up raised US$10M so far in a completed A round fundraising. ChickP is ISO-certified and has self-affirmed GRAS status.
For further information, please contact:
www.gfi.org/marketresearch/[1]
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SOURCE Liat Simha | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/07/05/chickp-cracked-code-creamy-dairy-free-barista-beverages/ | 2022-07-05T11:53:30Z |
- Generated Q2 net revenue of $1.4 billion and net income of $60 million
- Delivered strong gain on sale margin of 292 basis points
- Over 2,000 Rocket team members deployed to accelerate build-out of Rocket platform
- Unified Rocket brand, rebranding Truebill to Rocket Money, and Edison Financial to Rocket Mortgage
- Signed new agreements with Santander and Q2 digital banking platform
DETROIT, Aug. 4, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Rocket Companies, Inc. (NYSE: RKT) ("Rocket Companies" or the "Company"), a Detroit-based FinTech platform company consisting of tech-driven real estate, mortgage and financial services businesses – including Rocket Mortgage, Rocket Homes, Rocket Money (formerly known as Truebill) and Rocket Auto – today announced results for the quarter ended June 30, 2022.
"As the mortgage market continues to transition, we are actively investing in our business and transforming the Rocket services and engagement platforms to better serve our clients," said Jay Farner, Vice Chairman and CEO of Rocket Companies. "In the second quarter alone, Rocket Companies introduced new lending programs, forged new mortgage partnerships, officially launched our solar business and expanded our brand deeper into Canada. These moves provide us immediate opportunities today, and a tremendous runway for growth and expansion well into the future."
"During this time of change in the industry, we are focused on operating our business with discipline. We reduced expenses by approximately $300 million during the second quarter and will continue to execute a prudent approach to cost management," said Julie Booth, CFO and Treasurer of Rocket Companies. "We are also investing our capital into the Rocket engagement and services platforms to expand our client base, drive higher conversion, and lower our client acquisition cost, setting the foundation for our next stage of growth. We will continue to deploy our capital in a strategic and disciplined manner to generate long term shareholder value."
Second Quarter Financial Summary1
Second Quarter Financial Highlights
During the second quarter of 2022:
- Generated total revenue, net of $1.4 billion and delivered net income of $60 million, or 2 cents per diluted share.
- Rocket Mortgage generated $34.5 billion in mortgage origination closed loan volume. Gain on sale margin was 2.92%.
- Exceeded target expense reduction by $100 million, reducing expenses $300 million quarter-over-quarter.
- Grew servicing book unpaid principal balance to $538 billion at June 30, 2022, up 6% from June 30, 2021. As of June 30, 2022, our servicing portfolio includes 2.5 million clients and generates over $1.4 billion of recurring servicing fee income on an annualized basis.
Company Highlights
Rocket Platform
- Rocket Companies has deployed over 2,000 team members - across technology, product strategy, data intelligence and marketing functions - to expand and accelerate the build-out of Rocket's engagement and services platforms.
- Rocket Companies unified more of our businesses under the Rocket brand. In August, Truebill will rebrand to Rocket Money, and Edison Financial - our Canadian digital mortgage broker - will rebrand to Rocket Mortgage in Canada. These two rebranding initiatives leverage our investments in the trusted Rocket brand and draw our businesses closer together.
- Rocket Money, formerly known as Truebill, a leading personal finance app that we acquired in December 2021, again showed impressive growth. Paying premium members surpassed 2 million users in July, more than doubling year-over-year. Rocket Money launched its first credit card in beta in Q2 and has seen a very positive early response.
- In July, Rocket Mortgage signed a new agreement to originate mortgages for global financial leader Santander. Through this relationship, Santander will be offering Rocket Mortgage to their nearly 2 million U.S. clients.
- In July, Rocket Mortgage signed a new partnership with Q2, a banking platform leader who provides digital banking applications to over 500 financial institutions. Through the Q2 banking platform partnership, Rocket Mortgage will enable regional banks and credit unions to offer mortgages - without the need to manage their own mortgage operations. Consumers will enjoy a comprehensive, seamless experience through one app to apply for mortgages and make mortgage payments, deposit checks, and build their savings.
- Rocket Mortgage net client retention rate was 93% over the 12 months ended June 30, 2022. There is a strong correlation between this metric and client lifetime value, and we believe our net client retention rate is unmatched among mortgage companies and on par with some of the best performing subscription business models in the world.
- Rocket Homes grew overall real estate transactions by 25% from Q2 2021 to Q2 2022, notching two record months in the quarter for closed units. Rocket Homes' web traffic grew by nearly 60% in Q2 2022 from Q2 2021, reaching nearly 3 million unique visitors per month, driven by the increased brand awareness from our award-winning Super Bowl ad and our targeted performance marketing efforts.
- Rocket Solar continued its national expansion in June and is now available in 42 metropolitan areas, including Arizona, Florida and South Carolina. Starting in August, Rocket Solar will be working with Rocket Loans to provide solar financing options for our clients.
- Rocket Companies ranked #6 on Fortune's '100 Best Large Workplaces for Millennials' list. This marks the first time the Company has ranked within the top 10.
Technology and Product
- Rocket Mortgage Net Promoter Scores improved by over 10% from both purchase clients and real estate agents from Q4'21 to Q2'22, driven by our focus on delivering a superior client experience through our platform.
- Rocket Mortgage introduced mortgage products to provide homebuyers with the confidence and certainty they need to transact during a time of challenging market conditions. We placed renewed emphasis on our RateShield program, which gives our clients confidence to purchase a new home in a rising rate environment by locking in rates for 90 days while they search for a new home. We also launched Rate Drop Advantage at the end of July, which provides homebuyers with a one-time credit on typical closing costs to refinance their mortgage if rates drop within 3 years.
- Rocket Mortgage launched a new home equity loan product at the end of the July, providing additional options for clients to access the equity that they have in their homes. Recently, total U.S. home equity increased to $27.8 trillion, a record high, according to the Federal Reserve.
- RocketLogic, our proprietary next generation loan origination system, drove significant efficiencies in the loan origination process by reducing the average number of underwriting tasks per loan by over 40% from December 2021 to June 2022. These improvements were made by leveraging loan data to automate certain aspects of the process, further streamlining the underwriting process, and resulting in a better client experience.
- Approximately 90,000 real estate agents have signed up for Rocket Pro Insight (RPI), up from approximately 85,000 in Q1'22. RPI is our digital platform for real estate agents to manage the entire mortgage process in real-time, from application submission to closing. RPI also added Pathfinder, our mortgage guideline search engine, as a new feature.
Supporting Our Communities
- Rocket Companies released its inaugural ESG report, which documents the Company's commitment to being a "For More Than Profit" organization that invests in our team members and communities. The ESG report can be found on the Social Impact tab of our Investor Relations website.
- In July, Rocket Mortgage sponsored the Rocket Mortgage Classic, our flagship PGA tournament held in Detroit. Through the collaborative partnership efforts of its "Changing the Course" campaign, alongside other digital inclusion efforts, the Rocket Mortgage Classic has helped drive significant progress to help bridge Detroit's digital divide - with nearly 70% of Detroit residents now considered digitally included compared to 40% in 2019.
- The Rocket Community Fund, a partner company, launched the Detroit Eviction Defense Fund, a $13 million program led by the Gilbert Family Foundation, that will provide legal aid services to tenants at risk of eviction.
Subsequent to June 30, 2022:
- As of July 27, 2022, Rocket Companies repurchased 29.8 million shares cumulatively at an average price of $13.20. In total, we have returned $393.7 million to Class A common stockholders under the $1 billion share repurchase program authorized in November 2020.
Third Quarter 2022 Outlook
We expect the following ranges in Q3 2022:
- Closed loan volume of between $23 billion and $28 billion.
- Net rate lock volume of between $23 billion and $30 billion.
- Gain on sale margins of 2.50% to 2.80%.
Direct to Consumer
In the Direct to Consumer segment, clients have the ability to interact with Rocket Mortgage online and/or with the Company's mortgage bankers. The Company markets to potential clients in this segment through various brand campaigns and performance marketing channels. The Direct to Consumer segment derives revenue from originating, closing, selling and servicing predominantly agency-conforming loans, which are pooled and sold to the secondary market. The segment also includes title insurance, appraisals and settlement services complementing the Company's end-to-end mortgage origination experience. Servicing activities are fully allocated to the Direct to Consumer segment and are viewed as an extension of the client experience. Servicing enables Rocket Mortgage to establish and maintain long term relationships with our clients, through multiple touchpoints at regular engagement intervals.
Partner Network
The Rocket Professional platform supports our Partner Network segment, where we leverage our superior client service and widely recognized brand to grow marketing and influencer relationships, and our mortgage broker partnerships through Rocket Pro TPO. Our marketing partnerships consist of well-known consumer-focused companies that find value in our award-winning client experience and want to offer their clients mortgage solutions with our trusted, widely recognized brand. These organizations connect their clients directly to us through marketing channels and a referral process. Our influencer partnerships are typically with companies that employ licensed mortgage professionals that find value in our client experience, technology and efficient mortgage process, where mortgages may not be their primary offering. We also enable clients to start the mortgage process through the Rocket platform in the way that works best for them, including through a local mortgage broker.
Balance Sheet and Liquidity
We remain in a strong liquidity position, with total liquidity of $7.3 billion, which includes $0.9 billion of cash on-hand, $3.1 billion of corporate cash used to self-fund loan originations, a portion of which could be transferred to funding facilities (warehouse lines) at our discretion, $3.1 billion of undrawn lines of credit from non-funding facilities, and $0.2 billion of undrawn MSR lines. As of June 30, 2022, our available cash position was $4.0 billion, which includes cash on-hand and corporate cash used to self-fund loan originations, combined with the $6.7 billion of mortgage servicing rights, representing a total of $10.7 billion dollars of asset value on our balance sheet. As of June 30, 2022, our total equity was $8.8 billion and reflects the impact of the special dividend of $1.01 per share that was paid during the quarter to Class A shareholders and funded through a $2.0 billion distribution.
Subsequent to June 30, 2022, our total liquidity has increased with the addition of our new $1 billion MSR facility. On a pro forma basis including this new MSR facility, total liquidity at June 30, 2022 would have been $8.3 billion, including cash on hand, corporate cash used to self-fund loan originations and undrawn lines of credit and undrawn MSR lines.
Second Quarter Earnings Call
Rocket Companies will host a live conference call at 4:30 p.m. ET on August 4, 2022 to discuss its results for the quarter ended June 30, 2022. A live webcast of the event will be available online by clicking on the "Investor Info" section of our website. The webcast will also be available via rocketcompanies.com.
A replay of the webcast will be available on the Investor Relations site following the conclusion of the event. If you are having issues viewing the webcast, please see the event help guide at the link here.
Non-GAAP Financial Measures
To provide investors with information in addition to our results as determined by GAAP, we disclose Adjusted Revenue, Adjusted Net Income (Loss), Adjusted Diluted Earnings (Loss) Per Share and Adjusted EBITDA (collectively "our non-GAAP financial measures") as non-GAAP measures which management believes provide useful information to investors. We believe that the presentation of our non-GAAP financial measures provides useful information to investors regarding our results of operations because each measure assists both investors and management in analyzing and benchmarking the performance and value of our business. Our non-GAAP financial measures are not calculated in accordance with GAAP and should not be considered as a substitute for revenue, net income, or any other operating performance measure calculated in accordance with GAAP. Other companies may define our non-GAAP financial measures differently, and as a result, our measures of our non-GAAP financial measures may not be directly comparable to those of other companies. Our non-GAAP financial measures provide indicators of performance that are not affected by fluctuations in certain costs or other items. Accordingly, management believes that these measurements are useful for comparing general operating performance from period to period, and management relies on these measures for planning and forecasting of future periods. Additionally, these measures allow management to compare our results with those of other companies that have different financing and capital structures.
We define "Adjusted Revenue" as total revenues net of the change in fair value of mortgage servicing rights ("MSRs") due to valuation assumptions (net of hedges). We define "Adjusted Net Income (Loss)" as tax-effected earnings before share-based compensation expense, the change in fair value of MSRs due to valuation assumptions (net of hedges), a litigation accrual, career transition program, change in Tax receivable agreement liability, and the tax effects of those adjustments as applicable. We define "Adjusted Diluted Earnings (Loss) Per Share" as Adjusted Net Income (Loss) divided by the diluted weighted average number of Class A common stock outstanding for the applicable period, which assumes the pro forma exchange and conversion of all outstanding Class D common stock for Class A common stock. We define "Adjusted EBITDA" as earnings before interest and amortization expense on non-funding debt, income tax, and depreciation and amortization, net of the change in fair value of MSRs due to valuation assumptions (net of hedges), share-based compensation expense, a litigation accrual, career transition program, and change in Tax receivable agreement liability. We exclude from each of our non-GAAP financial measures the change in fair value of MSRs due to valuation assumptions (net of hedges) as this represents a non-cash non-realized adjustment to our total revenues, reflecting changes in assumptions including discount rates and prepayment speed assumptions, mostly due to changes in market interest rates, which is not indicative of our performance or results of operation. We also exclude effects of contractual prepayment protection associated with sales of MSRs. Adjusted EBITDA includes Interest expense on funding facilities, which are recorded as a component of Interest income, net, as these expenses are a direct cost driven by loan origination volume. By contrast, interest and amortization expense on non-funding debt is a function of our capital structure and is therefore excluded from Adjusted EBITDA.
Our definitions of each of our non-GAAP financial measures allows us to add back certain cash and non-cash charges, and deduct certain gains that are included in calculating Total revenues, net, Net income attributable to Rocket Companies or Net income. However, these expenses and gains vary greatly, and are difficult to predict. From time to time in the future, we may include or exclude other items if we believe that doing so is consistent with the goal of providing useful information to investors. In the first and second quarter of 2022, we revised our definition of Adjusted Net Income (Loss) and Adjusted EBITDA to also exclude the cash portion of share-based compensation expenses and the career transition program, respectively, as these expenses do not directly affect what we consider to be our core operating performance. Comparative periods presented to the extent impacted were updated.
Although we use our non-GAAP financial measures to assess the performance of our business, such use is limited because they do not include certain material costs necessary to operate our business. Our non-GAAP financial measures can represent the effect of long-term strategies as opposed to short-term results. Our presentation of our non-GAAP financial measures should not be construed as an indication that our future results will be unaffected by unusual or nonrecurring items. Our non-GAAP financial measures have limitations as analytical tools, and you should not consider them in isolation or as a substitute for analysis of our results as reported under U.S. GAAP. Because of these limitations, our non-GAAP financial measures should not be considered as measures of discretionary cash available to us to invest in the growth of our business or as measures of cash that will be available to us to meet our obligations. Some of these limitations are: (a) they do not reflect every cash expenditure, future requirements for capital expenditures or contractual commitments; (b) Adjusted EBITDA does not reflect the significant interest expense or the cash requirements necessary to service interest or principal payment on our debt; (c) although depreciation and amortization are non-cash charges, the assets being depreciated and amortized will often have to be replaced or require improvements in the future, and Adjusted Revenue, Adjusted Net (Loss) Income and Adjusted EBITDA do not reflect any cash requirement for such replacements or improvements; and (d) they are not adjusted for all non-cash income or expense items that are reflected in our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows. We compensate for these limitations by using our non-GAAP financial measures along with other comparative tools, together with U.S. GAAP measurements, to assist in the evaluation of operating performance. See below for reconciliation of our non-GAAP financial measures to their most comparable U.S. GAAP measures.
Forward Looking Statements
Some of the statements contained in this document are forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These forward-looking statements are generally identified by the use of words such as "anticipate," "believe," "could," "estimate," "expect," "intend," "may," "plan," "potential," "predict," "project," "should," "target," "will," "would" and, in each case, their negative or other various or comparable terminology. These forward-looking statements reflect our views with respect to future events as of the date of this document and are based on our management's current expectations, estimates, forecasts, projections, assumptions, beliefs and information. Although management believes that the expectations reflected in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that these expectations will prove to have been correct. All such forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, many of which are outside of our control, and could cause future events or results to be materially different from those stated or implied in this document. It is not possible to predict or identify all such risks. These risks include, but are not limited to, the risk factors that are described under the section titled "Risk Factors" in our Annual Report on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, Current Reports on Form 8-K, and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. These factors should not be construed as exhaustive and should be read in conjunction with the other cautionary statements that are included in this document and in our SEC filings. We expressly disclaim any obligation to publicly update or review any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as required by applicable law.
About Rocket Companies
Founded in 1985, Rocket Companies is a Detroit-based FinTech platform company consisting of personal finance and consumer technology brands including Rocket Mortgage, Rocket Homes, Amrock, Rocket Auto, Rocket Loans, Rocket Money (formerly known as Truebill), Rocket Solar, Rocket Mortgage Canada (formerly known as Edison Financial), Lendesk, Core Digital Media, Rocket Central and Rock Connections.
Rocket Companies' mission is to be the best at creating certainty in life's most complex moments so that its clients can live their dreams. The Company helps clients achieve the dream of home ownership and financial freedom through industry-leading client experiences powered by its simple, fast and trusted digital solutions. Rocket Companies ranked #7 on Fortune's list of the "100 Best Companies to Work For" in 2022 and has placed in the top third of the list for 19 consecutive years. For more information, please visit our Corporate Website or Investor Relations Website.
1 "GAAP" stands for Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the U.S. Please see the sections of this document titled "Non-GAAP Financial Measures" and "GAAP to non-GAAP Reconciliations" for more information on the Company's non-GAAP measures and its share count. Certain figures in the tables throughout this document may not foot due to rounding.
2 We measure the performance of the Direct to Consumer and Partner Network segments primarily on a contribution margin basis. Contribution margin is intended to measure the direct profitability of each segment and is calculated as Adjusted Revenue less directly attributable expenses. Directly attributable expenses include salaries, commissions and team member benefits, general and administrative expenses, and other expenses, such as direct servicing costs and origination costs. A loan is considered "sold" when it is sold to investors on the secondary market. We previously referred to "sold" loans as "funded" loans. See "Summary Segment Results" section later in this document and the footnote on "Segments" in the "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements" in the Company's forthcoming filing on Form 10-Q for more information.
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SOURCE Rocket Companies, Inc. | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/08/04/rocket-companies-announces-second-quarter-results/ | 2022-08-04T21:14:33Z |
Powerful platform provides heightened global security awareness via software-as-a-service and is available as an MSSP offering
SANTA CLARA, Calif., Sept. 1, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- CyberRes, a Micro Focus (LSE: MCRO; NYSE: MFGP) line of business, today announced a new version of Voltage File Analysis Suite (FAS), a cloud platform that combines the latest in data discovery and data protection. Among the new features in Voltage FAS is SmartScan, a tool for intelligent sampling and dynamic tagging for petabyte scale data discovery, enabling data analysts to find the areas of higher data risk faster.
"The new CyberRes Voltage File Analysis Suite takes data security to the next level with its data discovery and protection capabilities within one solution," said Reiner Kappenberger, Director Product Management, Voltage Data Privacy and Protection. "Since it is delivered as a SaaS solution, it possesses the scalability needed to meet the needs of any user's data estate. Furthermore, the dynamic Voltage SmartScan tool provides users with the resources needed to conduct more prescriptive, deeper scans of their data infrastructure and take more focused protective actions."
Voltage FAS is not limited by the constraints of geographic or political boundaries, enabling users to achieve and maintain compliance standards for the growing number of privacy regulations around the world. Voltage FAS enhances global privacy awareness with dynamic data masking, contextually aware entity detection for thirty-nine-plus countries and economic regions.
Also with this release, Voltage FAS is now available as a managed security services provider (MSSP) offering, which goes hand-in-hand with its availability as a software-as-a-service (SaaS) platform. Voltage FAS works with cloud, on-premise and all hybrid models by understanding and managing data in place. As some regions require data residency for organizations, Voltage FAS can also be deployed on private clouds, enabling organizations to effectively find and protect their sensitive data without having any data leave the region.
"The release of our Voltage as a Service MSP/MSSP offering is designed to enable managed security services providers with flexible go-to-market options, pay-as-you-grow models, unified data discovery use cases to build managed services catalog offerings, thereby solving customer requirements for outcome-driven data discovery and protection with extremely quick time to value," said Marianne Van der Pluym, VP Global MSSP Strategy and Sales.
One MSSP that has capitalized on the flexibility of Voltage FAS is Advania Sweden. "At Advania, we built our Data Management as a Service on the Voltage/FAS platform in our own data center and are able to be compliant with strict governmental rules and GDPR," said Tomas Wanselius, CEO of Advania Sweden.
The new version of Voltage FAS is also receiving high marks from end users. "File Analysis Suite has a pivotal role in our environment, not only supporting Turkish Data Protection Regulation and PCI/DSS but also helping us to understand the other critical/sensitive data should be protected," Olcay Nisanoglu, IT Operations Director, BELBIM. "Since this project was a priority for the management team, we took an immediate action to start the project. Thanks to SmartScan's functionality with File Analysis Suite, all critical folders were quickly identified, allowing us to efficiently focus on these areas."
Voltage FAS' data discovery capabilities can go deeper and broader across unstructured data repositories than most in the market. Voltage FAS supports more than 1,000 file types and discovery across the most common sources of unstructured data and collaboration platforms on premises and in the cloud including Microsoft 365, SharePoint, Exchange, Azure file and object stores, Google Workspaces, SMB (Samba), Amazon S3 object stores, as well as other source via a custom connector API. Voltage FAS includes the latest Optical Character Recognition (OCR) technology to enable users to discover sensitive data in images, such as scans of identifications and contracts.
A full description of Voltage File Analysis Suite features and use cases is available.
Discover more about CyberRes Voltage SmartScan.
Join CyberRes on LinkedIn and follow @MicroFocusSec on Twitter.
CyberRes is a Micro Focus line of business. We bring the expertise of one of the world's largest security portfolios to help our customers navigate the changing threat landscape by building both cyber and business resiliency within their teams and organizations. CyberRes is part of a larger set of digital transformation solutions that fight adverse conditions so businesses can continue to run today, keep the lights on, and transform to grow and take advantage of tomorrow's opportunities.
Media Contact: microfocus@pancomm.com
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SOURCE Micro Focus | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/09/01/new-cyberres-voltage-file-analysis-suite-enables-proactive-data-protection-with-smartscan/ | 2022-09-01T12:39:09Z |
SHEBOYGAN, Wis., June 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Van Horn Automotive Group announced the launch of CloudLot at ShopCloudLot.com, a 100% online car buying experience for pre-owned vehicles. CloudLot puts the customer in full control of their deal from picking the car, to scheduling delivery, and everything in between. Deals are estimated to the penny, down payments can be accepted, and signatures can be done securely online.
Van Horn has been active in the online space for several years, and has always looked for new ways to make the car-buying process quicker, more transparent and pleasant for customers. CloudLot takes this process to the next level, enabling the user to find and purchase a vehicle in as little as 20 minutes, and set up delivery.
"As Wisconsin's only employee-owned auto group, we will continue to provide the same personalized car buying experience that our customers have loved for more than 55 years; but now with CloudLot, we can serve a new set of car buyers that are looking for a totally digital option," stated Adam Gaedke, Vice President of Dealership Operations, Van Horn Automotive Group. "The benefit of purchasing online through CloudLot is the backing of a 19-dealership auto group, dedicated employee owners and a network of service centers. We want the customer to feel empowered to manage their own purchase, but also know we're here to support them during and after the sale."
CloudLot uses Cox Automotive's state-of-the-art Esntial Commerce™ technology, which assists consumers through the online car buying process faster and more seamlessly than any other platform. AI-powered shopping features and patent-pending finance automation enables customers to see pre-qualified payments on every vehicle in inventory and shop by make, model, price, and monthly budget. With CloudLot backed by Cox Automotive Esntial Commerce, consumers have full control over when they want to purchase a vehicle, and how.
CloudLot shoppers can look forward to the following benefits:
- Wide selection of quality pre-owned vehicles
- Transparent pricing
- Automated financing and lender approval
- Schedule delivery
- Trusted trade-in opportunities with Kelley Blue Book® Instant Cash Offer (ICO)
- Prescriptive aftermarket product and insurance offerings
- Safe and secure completion and signing of deal paperwork and payments
"We want people to buy cars on their terms and on their time," said Ryan Thiel, Marketing Director, Van Horn Automotive Group. "Whether in-person, online, or a little of both, we now have options to match any buyer's preference."
About Van Horn Automotive Group
Van Horn Automotive Group, Inc. is a family born, employee owned automotive group with headquarters in Plymouth, Wisconsin. Founded in 1966 by Joe Van Horn as a single Chevrolet dealership, Van Horn Automotive Group has grown to include 19 automotive dealerships, a finance company, a rental vehicle division, and a wholesale financial products company. The group employs over 690 people throughout Wisconsin and Iowa. For employment opportunities visit the Careers page at https://www.vhcars.com/careers/.
About Esntial Commerce™
Esntial Commerce is the industry's first eCommerce solution that has come together from maximizing the breadth and depth of Cox Automotive's suite of digital solutions. It provides a fully automated and online eCommerce consumer car buying experience while delivering automation through state-of-the-art AI/machine learning capabilities that transforms the traditional deal process while delivering increased efficiency and profitability to the retailer. With Esntial Commerce, along with the digital assisted selling tools, only Cox Automotive Digital Retailing can deliver on the promise of enabling retailers to succeed with any consumer, on any deal, from anywhere. This white-label, end-to-end eCommerce solution, is customizable to the retailer's brand.
About Cox Automotive
Cox Automotive Inc. makes buying, selling, owning and using vehicles easier for everyone. The global company's more than 27,000 team members and family of brands, including Autotrader®, Dealer.com®, Dealertrack®, Kelley Blue Book®, Manheim®, NextGear Capital®, VinSolutions®, vAuto® and Xtime®, are passionate about helping millions of car shoppers, 40,000 auto dealer clients across five continents and many others throughout the automotive industry thrive for generations to come. Cox Automotive is a subsidiary of Cox Enterprises Inc., a privately-owned, Atlanta-based company with annual revenues of nearly $20 billion. www.coxautoinc.com.
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SOURCE Cox Automotive | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/06/09/van-horn-automotive-group-announces-cloudlot-new-100-online-car-buying-platform/ | 2022-06-09T14:21:34Z |
New York's Petri Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Drain Cleaning says homeowners can cut utility bills this summer by following a few simple tips
BROOKLYN, N.Y., June 7, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- While the average monthly utility bill for many New Yorkers jumped 50% over the past few months, the experts at Petri Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Drain Cleaning, a family-owned home service company serving Brooklyn and Manhattan for more than a century, say residents can keep cool this summer and still reduce energy costs by following a few simple tips.
"Not only has the cost of energy gone up, but we're also entering the warmer months when New Yorkers will be consuming more energy to beat the heat," said Michael Petri, owner of Petri Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Drain Cleaning. "It's always a good thing when you can be kind to the environment while saving money. There are several ways residents can stay cool while still cutting their energy consumption."
According to a recent New York Times article, economists list a rise in natural gas costs, the war in Ukraine, supply chain chaos, and a need for utility companies to harden their power grids against natural disasters as the reasons the cost of electric rates have risen so dramatically.
Petri says homeowners and apartment dwellers, alike, can reduce their consumption with the following ideas:
- Tune up or replace the HVAC system. A regularly serviced or new, energy-saving air conditioning unit can save homeowners cash. Changing a clogged filter alone can save between 5 and 15% in energy use.
- Adjust the thermostat or get a smart thermostat. During the summer months, keeping the thermostat set above 75 degrees and using ceiling fans properly can save energy. Homeowners can also consider a smart thermostat that can "learn" how a family uses its HVAC unit and can adjust – or be adjusted – to cool when necessary.
- Lower water heating costs. Homeowners can adjust their water heaters to lower temperatures, particularly since extra hot showers are not often needed in the summer months. Maximizing laundry and dish loads before washing also reduces the amount of hot water used to clean these items.
- Use electricity during off-peak hours. Energy companies often chare more during peak hours so waiting until off-peak hours to cook, do laundry or wash dishes can help save on rates.
- Unplug devices. Unplugging devices like televisions and computers when they're not in use or using smart power strips eliminates "phantom" electricity that appliances, charges and standard power strips use even when turned off.
- Use weatherstripping and close vents. Caulking or weatherstripping cracks or holes around windows and doors can keep the cool air from leaking out while closing vents in rooms residents aren't using can keep costs down by not cooling rooms that don't need the refrigerated air.
"While these tips won't lower the rates, they can certainly help New Yorkers curtail some of their energy consumption," Petri said. "Residents shouldn't have to suffer through the heat just to save some money on their utility bills. By employing some of these tips, many residents will be able to stay cool without breaking the bank."
About Petri Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Drain Cleaning
Petri Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Drain Cleaning is a family owned and operated business serving Brooklyn and the New York City area. Founded in 1906, the company offers a 100 percent guarantee on all services, upfront pricing, and friendly and knowledgeable Service Experts for all kinds of home and business plumbing and heating needs. Services offered include water and gas pipe leak repair and installation, fixture installations, inspections, boiler repair, water heater installation, complete bathroom, kitchen, laundry & utility room remodeling and more. Petri is also licensed and certified by Green Plumbers USA, the first in New York City to receive this designation. For more information, please visit www.petriplumbing.com or call (718) 717-1089.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Heather Ripley
Ripley PR
865-977-1973
hripley@ripleypr.com
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SOURCE Petri Plumbing & Heating, Inc. | https://www.kxii.com/prnewswire/2022/06/07/brooklyn-hvac-experts-offer-ideas-reduce-energy-costs-prices-consumption-rise/ | 2022-06-07T11:42:46Z |
First Quarter Revenue Increases 6% to $4.7 Million
LAS VEGAS, May 16, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Remark Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: MARK), a diversified global technology company with leading artificial intelligence ("AI") solutions and digital media properties, today announced financial results for its fiscal first quarter ended March 31, 2022.
Management Commentary
"Our first quarter results reflected continued growth year over year despite the well-known business challenges from continued COVID shutdowns and the disruption of the supply chain exacerbated by the Russian-Ukraine conflict. Momentum from last year's second half continued with first-quarter revenue coming from construction, education, and safety management projects, and we also launched our metaverse project," noted Kai-Shing Tao, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Remark Holdings. "We expect demand momentum to build as our AI solutions prove their value in solving essential business problems, allowing businesses to operate efficiently while facing the challenges of a worldwide reduction of workforce in the face of increasing demand for skilled labor."
Fiscal Quarter 2022 Business Highlights
- The company's Smart Construction solutions contributed $2.2 million of revenue as the company completed installations at 21 construction sites, bringing total installations to 53 sites and, thereby, nearly completing the initial contract. Based on the performance under the initial contract, the company expects to fulfill additional contracts on more construction sites, as well as for cement factories, as the Chinese government unveiled its "New Infrastructure" plan aiming to accelerate the growth of commercial use of 5G and artificial intelligence, among other technologies.
- In China, the company saw continued momentum in the education sector, as its Smart Campus solutions were installed in more than 50 schools, totaling approximately 400 campuses since its launch. Given the robust nature of the company's Smart Campus solutions, the company expects to take advantage of additional revenue opportunities by installing additional customized modules based on the individual needs of each school campus on which it has already installed the solutions.
- Deployment of our systems in China Mobile's retail locations and various banks halted as China implemented its strict zero-COVID policies, including lockdowns, during the Winter Olympics, and as China residents celebrated the Chinese New Year. The company expects deployments to pick up in the third quarter of 2022 as a handful of cities plan to loosen lockdown measures starting in June.
- In the US, Remark AI continued to work with Brightline towards full implementation of the company's Smart Sentry units powered by its Smart Safety Platform ("SSP"). The SSP provides detailed computer-vision coverage that monitors long stretches of track and railyard areas to detect intrusions, track anomalies and unusual behavior, all while providing real-time, actionable predictive analysis from data collected. The company's work with Brightline has been described in various media outlets in the European Union such that the company believes it can win market share with its products in that large market.
- During the first quarter, Remark stepped into the metaverse by launching VergasVerz, an augmented reality mobile app that delivered to fans a combined physical offline and virtual online experience. The mobile app debuted at the sold-out BTS concerts in Las Vegas, in relation with the company's partnership with MGM Resorts International, with VegasVerz providing an enjoyable and discoverable adventure allowing fans to collect unique items including NFTs while participating in a one-of-a-kind immersive Las Vegas BTS fan experience. VegasVerz leverages Web 3.0 technology to expand the Vegas experience to both physical and online visitors. Though VegasVerz did not contribute to revenue in the first quarter of 2022, the company expects that revenue opportunities will grow based upon its success growing Vegas.com.
Fiscal First Quarter 2022 Financial Results
- Revenue for the fiscal first quarter of 2022 totaled $4.7 million, up 6% from $4.4 million during fiscal first quarter 2021.
- Gross profit adjusted to $0.4 million in the first quarter of 2022 from $1.7 million in the first quarter of 2021. The overall gross profit margin for the first quarter of 2022 was 8.5%. Increased cost of revenue of $4.3 million was primarily associated with the completion of more projects in the construction industry resulting from the relationship with the company's China business partner and the completion of new projects in the education sector.
- The company incurred an operating loss of $4.2 million in the first quarter of 2022 compared to an operating loss of $3.7 million in the comparable quarter of 2021. In addition to the increases in revenue and cost of revenue, general and administrative expense increased primarily from $0.5 million of share-based compensation from the recognition of the 2020 stock option issuance that did not have an accounting grant date until July 2021, as well as from an increase of $0.3 million in business development expenses as the company expands its client base, and an increase of $0.2 million in payroll and benefits. Partially offsetting the increases in cost of revenue and general and administrative expense were decreases in sales and marketing expense and technology and development expense. Sales and marketing expense decreased because the prior year first quarter included $0.6 million that the company advanced to the China business partner, and such amount was classified as marketing expense, while no such activity occurred in the current year. Technology and development expense declined $0.6 million due to reduced reliance on consultants as a result of the acquisition of the United Kingdom entity in an immaterial business combination, and by $0.3 million due to a decrease in the company's liability for China cash bonuses.
- Net loss totaled $25.4 million, or $0.24 per diluted share in the first quarter ended March 31, 2022, compared to a net loss of $5.5 million, or $0.06 per diluted share in the quarter ended March 31, 2021. The loss on investment of $19.1 million, which consisted primarily of the change in fair value of the company's holdings of common stock of Sharecare, Inc., was almost entirely responsible for the larger net loss in the first quarter of 2022. Another significant contributor to increased net loss was interest expense, including amortization of original issue discount and debt issuance cost, resulting from the $30.0 million note payable, entered into during December 2021, which bears interest at 16.5%. The same period of the prior year included significantly less debt principal outstanding.
- On March 31, 2022, the cash and cash equivalents balance totaled $2.7 million, compared to a cash position of $14.2 million on December 31, 2021. Cash was primarily impacted by a $3.7 million principal repayment on the company's note payable, interest payments of $1.1 million on the note payable, payment of approximately $1.0 million for work on the company's metaverse, and increased spending for business development as the company looks to expand product sales into new industries.
"In summary, Q1 2022 continued to show year over year revenue growth from 2021, due to the strong foundation we have built in China over the past five years," stated Mr. Tao. "We are building the same foundation with the organizational investment and research we are conducting to grow our U.S. business based on our SSP, which provides the necessary video analytics and risk management tools for organizations to protect their facilities, customers, and employees. We are in prime position to capture a fair share of the infrastructure dollars allocated in the recently enacted Build Back Better bill, especially in the areas of public infrastructure and transportation security. In addition, the release of VegasVerz, our metaverse platform, leverages our operational experience and relationships cultivated during our ownership of Vegas.com to expand the physical world to the online world of virtual avatars and NFTs, bringing new monetization opportunities."
Conference Call Information
Management Management will hold a conference call this afternoon at 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time (1:30 p.m. Pacific Time) to discuss the company's financial results and provide an update on recent business developments. A question and answer session will follow management's presentation.
The live conference may be accessed via telephone or online webcast.
Toll-Free Number: 1.800.239.9838
International Number: 1.323.794.2551
Conference ID: 1701105
Online webcast: https://themediaframe.com/mediaframe/webcast.html?webcastid=z6ttWFzu
Participants are advised to login for the live webcast 10 minutes prior to the scheduled start time. A replay of the call will be available after 7:30 p.m. Eastern time on the same day through May 21, 2021.
Toll-Free Replay Number: 1.844.512.2921
International Replay Number: 1.412.317.6671
Replay ID: 1701105
About Remark Holdings, Inc.
Remark Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: MARK) delivers an integrated suite of AI solutions that enable businesses and organizations to solve problems, reduce risk and deliver positive outcomes. The company's easy-to-install AI products are being rolled out in a wide range of applications within the retail, public safety and workplace arenas. The company also owns and operates an e-commerce digital media property focused on a luxury beach lifestyle. The company's corporate headquarters and U.S. operations are based in Las Vegas, Nevada, and it also maintains operations in London, England and Shanghai, China. The operations of the variable interest entities that the company consolidates are headquartered in Chengdu, China with additional operations in Hangzhou. For more information, please visit the company's website at http://www.remarkholdings.com/.
Forward-Looking Statements
This press release may contain forward-looking statements, including information relating to future events, future financial performance, strategies, expectations, competitive environment and regulation. Words such as "may," "should," "could," "would," "predicts," "potential," "continue," "expects," "anticipates," "future," "intends," "plans," "believes," "estimates," and similar expressions, as well as statements in future tense, identify forward-looking statements. These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, including those discussed in Part I, Item 1A. Risk Factors in Remark Holdings' Annual Report on Form 10-K and Remark Holdings' other filings with the SEC. Any forward-looking statements reflect Remark Holdings' current views with respect to future events, are based on assumptions and are subject to risks and uncertainties. Given such uncertainties, you should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements, which represent Remark Holdings' estimates and assumptions only as of the date hereof. Except as required by law, Remark Holdings undertakes no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements after the date hereof, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
Company Contacts
Fay Tian
Vice President of Investor Relations
F.Tian@remarkholdings.com
(+1) 626.623.2000
(+86) 13702108000
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SOURCE Remark Holdings, Inc. | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/05/16/remark-holdings-announces-fiscal-first-quarter-2022-financial-results/ | 2022-05-16T21:56:31Z |
COLUMBIA, Mo., June 22, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Nearly 80 years ago, the GI Bill promised to help economically disadvantaged Veterans become homeowners. Today, the same program is living up to its original promise by helping narrow the homeownership gap for female Veterans and Veterans of color.
For Veterans and service members, the VA home loan benefit is opening doors to homeownership like never before, according to Veterans United Home Loans' recent report. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has backed more than 25 million home loans, which has expanded access to homeownership since 1944.
Demographics of the military have changed drastically since the program's inception. For perspective, in 1945, the population of the military was 7.4% African American and Black, 0.48% Asian American and Pacific Islanders, 0.42% Hispanic and Latino, and 3% women, according to the National WWII Museum.
Today, the military population is 13.4% African American and Black, 2.3% Asian American and Pacific Islanders, 8.02% Hispanic and Latino, and 10.9% women, according to the VA.
"Military service and the VA home loan program are creating transformational and generational change for female Veterans and Veterans of color," said Chris Birk, vice president of mortgage insight at Veterans United Home Loans, the country's largest VA purchase lender. "In many ways, these Veterans and service members increasingly represent the future of this historic benefit."
Overall, the Veteran and service member homeownership outlook will shift by 2048 with the following changes:
- The Hispanic and Latino population is expected to make up over 16% of the total Veteran population.
An Urban Institute study has projected that 70% of new homeowners between 2020 and 2040 will be Hispanic and Latino. The homeownership rate is over 18 percentage points higher for Hispanic and Latino Veterans compared to their civilian counterparts. - The African American and Black population is expected to make up about 15% of the total Veteran population.
African Americans own homes at about 17 percentage points higher than their civilian counterparts. VA loan usage for this demographic increased by 23% from 2018 to 2021. - By 2048, Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPI) are expected to make up 5% of the Veteran population, up from 0.42%.
AAPI Veterans have higher homeownership rates than their civilian counterparts at about 13 percentage points. Education and household income are significant contributors to driving the growth of the AAPI population. By 2048, their Veterans population is expected to grow by 45%. - Female Veterans will account for about 18% of the total Veteran population.
Over the last decade, female Veterans made up about 11% of Veterans and service members who use their VA home loan benefit. More female Veterans are projected to be homeowners as the population is expected to increase.
The VA home loan benefit helps remove barriers such as down payments, no private mortgage insurance, access to the industry's lowest average rates, and flexible credit guidelines, especially for women and people of color. Although these key demographics remain the most impacted by these barriers, this program continues to level the playing field to achieve homeownership.
About Veterans United Home Loans
Based in Columbia, Missouri, the full-service national lender financed more than $29.9 billion in loans in 2021 and is the country's largest VA purchase lender according to the Department of Veterans Affairs Lender Statistics. The company's mission is to help Veterans and service members take advantage of the home loan benefits earned by their service. The company's employee-driven charitable arm, Veterans United Foundation, is committed to enhancing the lives of Veterans and military families nationwide by focusing on supporting military families and nonprofit organizations that strengthen local communities. Veterans United Home Loans and its employees have donated more than $100 million to the Foundation since its founding in November 2011. Learn more at EnhanceLives.com.
VeteransUnited.com | 1-800-884-5560 | 1400 Veterans United Drive, Columbia, MO 65203 | NMLS ID #1907 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org). A VA approved lender; Not endorsed or sponsored by the Dept. of Veterans Affairs or any government agency. Equal Opportunity Lender. Mortgage Research Center, LLC.
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SOURCE Veterans United Home Loans | https://www.mysuncoast.com/prnewswire/2022/06/22/nearly-80-years-later-gi-bill-helps-shrink-homeownership-gap-veterans-service-members/ | 2022-06-22T23:05:07Z |
Before we all fawned over the impossibly cute Grogu/Baby Yoda in the first episode of "The Mandalorian," another big-eared, sweet-natured creature had already weaseled his way into our hearts.
Gizmo the Mogwai, the fuzzy, wide-eyed puppet, is undoubtedly the star of 1984's horror-comedy "Gremlins" and its sequel. And more than 30 years after the original film's debut, "Gremlins" director Joe Dante told the San Francisco Chronicle that he thinks Grogu, whom audiences met in 2019, was entirely based on the lovable Gizmo.
"Baby Yoda ... is completely stolen and just out-and-out copied" from the cutest character in "Gremlins," Dante told the Chronicle ahead of a screening of both "Gremlins" films. "Shamelessly, I would think."
The two aliens certainly share more than a few similarities: Physically, they've both got protruding ears that are disproportionately large to their diminutive frames; they communicate in coos and gurgles and they fiercely defend the father figures in their lives. (It's not clear whether Grogu goes bananas if he's doused with water, though his predecessor Yoda lived on the swampy planet of Dagobah and only went mildly mad, so he may not share this with Gizmo.)
For their part, "The Mandalorian" showrunners have named different inspirations for Grogu than Gizmo, namely "E.T." and the film "Paper Moon," in which a con artist duo play father and child. But fans have noted the resemblance between the two since Grogu debuted.
While Gizmo never achieved the levels of international adoration that Grogu has in a few short years, he's still got devoted fans. "Gremlins" star Zach Galligan told Entertainment Weekly last year that he believed "[his] buddy is cuter," largely due to Gizmo's fuzziness and Grogu's hairlessness.
While Grogu is staying booked and busy in the growing galaxy of Disney+ "Star Wars" series, Gizmo is making a grand return to the screen this year, too: He'll soon appear in animated form on the HBO Max series "Gremlins: Secrets of the Mogwai." Ironically, the new series stars "The Mandalorian" actress Ming-Na Wen, whose character is an ally of a certain tiny green Jedi-in-training.
(CNN and HBO Max are both part of Warner Bros. Discovery.)
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